Buddhism's Early Effect on Early China Essay Example

Starting off as a wealthy class member and giving it all up for perfection would be a difficult task for many, but this task was accomplished by Siddhartha Gautama, also known as the Buddha, and the founder of Buddhism. Buddha not only affected the lives of the many followers of his days, but it affects many people to this day. In the times though between 500 BCE and 1000 CE, it had a great impact on the multiple dynasties ruling during this time period. In its competition with the many other religions or ways of life, it had its larger impact after in overtook the popularity of Daoism, its greatest competitor. Buddhism impacted thousands of people in the categories of political, social, and economical ways of life during the early times of Chinese culture. Buddhism’s impact on political matters in China was very important to the Chinese people. Although Buddhism began in India, it quickly spread elsewhere, including China. Buddhism was brought into China, but with a lot of competition including Confucianism, Legalism, and Daoism. Buddhism was different from these other religions, in the way it was organized politically. Its way of politics included peaceful gestures towards the poor and needy, and they veered towards more of the democratic society. This gave freedom to the people, and caused more and more people to enjoy this religion. Buddhism also had a large impact on economical affairs in early China. Since Buddhism is centered on peace and fairness, the Buddhist people were always willing to cooperate with other societies, including trade. When it came to war, they most likely tried to find a peaceful way out rather than having to spill blood. They also believed that sufficiency was an important part of their economy, and this included the use of renewable recourses. They also tried to give each worker an equal opportunity when it came to making money, and they ensured that each person’s needs were met. Buddhism had the greatest impact on social system