Biographies of Jianzhen

Author: Hao Runhua
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-06-01
Features: Jian Zhen is one of the most influential Buddhist monks in the history of Sino-Japanese cultural exchange. At the invitation of the Japanese court, he risked his life to travel to Japan to propagate Dharma, undertaking six voyages across the East over a period of twelve years. After arriving in Japan, Jian Zhen not only taught precepts and promoted the Buddhist teachings but also built the first Ritsu sect temple in Japanese history—Tōdai-ji Temple. He also shared medical knowledge and medicine with the Japanese people, introducing advanced Tang Dynasty culture to Japan and making significant contributions to Japan's Buddhist cultural endeavors. He was hailed by the Japanese people as the "Founder of the Ritsu sect in Japan" and the "Benefactor of Japanese culture."
This book fully utilizes the historical records of the "Biography of the Great Master Jian Zhen's Journey to Japan" written by the Japanese scholar Genkai, as well as other scattered literature both domestically and internationally, drawing on research achievements from around the world. It conducts a comprehensive analysis and research of Jian Zhen's life and deeds, particularly his six voyages to the East, the transmission of his Buddhist thought, his Buddhist activities in Japan, his contributions to Japanese Buddhism, his cultural and intellectual achievements in Japan, as well as the composition, dissemination, and value of the "Biography of the Great Master Jian Zhen's Journey to Japan." Additionally, it explores the ideological significance of Jian Zhen's voyages to the East and his status and influence in the history of Sino-Japanese cultural exchange.