Buddhism Spread explores the remarkable journey of Buddhism from its origins in India to its profound influence across Asia. The book highlights Buddhism's transformative impact on art, politics, and daily life, examining how it reshaped cultural and political landscapes. A key insight is that Buddhism's success stemmed from its adaptability, integrating seamlessly with existing traditions rather than simply being imposed.
The book traces Buddhism's expansion in three parts. It first grounds the reader in Buddhism's Indian origins, exploring the life of Siddhartha Gautama and core teachings like the Four Noble Truths. Next, it follows the routes of Buddhist expansion through China (via the Silk Road), Japan, and Southeast Asia, showing how it adapted in each region. For example, in Japan, Buddhism intertwined with Shinto and influenced samurai culture.
Finally, it analyzes Buddhism's lasting effects on Asian art, political systems, and ethics. Unlike many books that focus solely on religion, this work adopts a holistic approach, connecting Buddhism's spread to cultural, political, and social developments. Drawing from primary texts, archaeological findings, and interdisciplinary scholarship, this book provides readers with a clear framework for understanding the historical roots of contemporary issues in Asia.
