I. Planning Ideas
(1) In-depth Study of Buddhist Origins and Early Development
Explore the historical background, founder Siddhartha Gautama’s life, and the formation of early Buddhist doctrines. Analyze the social, cultural, and religious contexts of ancient India that gave rise to Buddhism. This research will help understand the core teachings of early Buddhism and its initial development trajectory.
(2) Research on the Dissemination and Evolution of Buddhism in Different Regions
- South Asia: Study the spread of Buddhism across the Indian subcontinent, including its development in ancient India and the reasons for its decline. Analyze its interaction with local cultures and religions.
- East Asia: Research the transmission of Buddhism to China, Korea, Japan, and other East Asian countries. Focus on the Sinicization of Buddhism and the formation of various schools like Chan and Pure Land Buddhism, as well as its influence on East Asian culture.
- Southeast Asia: Explore the spread of Theravada Buddhism in regions like Sri Lanka, Thailand, Burma, and Cambodia. Study its integration with local cultures and its role in the social and cultural development of these areas.
- Other Regions: Examine the dissemination and evolution of Buddhism in Central Asia, Tibet, and other areas such as Tibet, as well as its spread to Western countries in modern times.
(3) Study of Key Figures and Events in Buddhist History
Identify and study significant figures in Buddhist history, such as eminent monks, scholars, and translators like Kumārajīva and Xuanzang. Analyze their contributions to the development of Buddhism. Also, investigate key events like the Buddhist councils and the White Horse Temple’s construction to understand their impact on Buddhist history.
(4) Research on the Relationship Between Buddhist History and Social History
Explore the interaction between Buddhist history and social history, such as the relationship between Buddhism and political power, economic development, and social change in different historical periods. Analyze how Buddhism influenced and was influenced by social structures and historical developments.
(5) Utilization of Modern Technology and Methods for Buddhist Historical Research
Apply modern technology such as digital humanities, big data analysis, and archaeology to Buddhist historical research. Use digital tools for the collection, organization, and analysis of Buddhist historical data. Employ archaeological methods to uncover new Buddhist relics and artifacts, providing fresh evidence for historical research.
II. Introduction to Buddhist History Research
(1) Research Objectives
The primary goals of Buddhist history research are to gain a comprehensive and accurate understanding of Buddhism’s origins, development, and dissemination. This research aims to reveal the laws and characteristics of Buddhist historical development, explore its role and influence in human civilization, and provide a solid historical foundation for the inheritance and innovation of Buddhist culture.
(2) Research Content
- Origins and Early Development of Buddhism: Study the historical background and life of Siddhartha Gautama, the formation and development of early Buddhist doctrines, and the establishment of the early Buddhist community. Focus on the core teachings of early Buddhism and its development trajectory in ancient India.
- Dissemination and Evolution of Buddhism in Different Regions: Research the transmission and development of Buddhism in various regions, including South Asia, East Asia, Southeast Asia, and other areas. Analyze the reasons for its dissemination, the characteristics of its development in different regions, and the exchange and interaction between different Buddhist traditions.
- Key Figures and Events in Buddhist History: Identify and study significant figures in Buddhist history, such as eminent monks, scholars, and translators. Analyze their contributions to the development of Buddhism and investigate key events in Buddhist history and their impact.
- Relationship Between Buddhist History and Social History: Explore the interaction between Buddhist history and social history, such as the relationship between Buddhism and political power, economic development, and social change. Study the role of Buddhist institutions and practices in society and their reflection of social structures and values.
(3) Research Methods
- Historical Document Research: Systematically collect,整理, and analyze historical documents related to Buddhism, including Buddhist scriptures, historical records, biographies of monks, and inscriptions. Extract historical information from these documents to reconstruct the historical development of Buddhism.
- Archaeological Research: Conduct archaeological excavations and studies of Buddhist sites, relics, and artifacts to obtain firsthand materials on Buddhist history. Use archaeological findings to verify and supplement historical documents, providing new evidence and perspectives for Buddhist historical research.
- Comparative Research: Compare the development of Buddhism in different regions and periods, as well as with other world religions. Identify similarities and differences to understand the unique features and universal laws of Buddhist development and its position and influence in the global religious landscape.
- Interdisciplinary Research: Combine methodologies and perspectives from multiple disciplines such as history, religion, philosophy, sociology, and anthropology. Use interdisciplinary approaches to gain a comprehensive understanding of Buddhist history and its complex relationships with various aspects of human society.
(4) Expected Outcomes
Educational and Social Impact: Provide rich and accurate Buddhist historical knowledge for Buddhist education and popularization. This will help the public better understand Buddhist culture and history, promoting cultural literacy and social harmony.
Academic Contributions: Publish academic papers, books, and reports on Buddhist history research. These publications will enrich the academic field of Buddhist studies and provide valuable references for researchers and scholars.
Cultural Heritage and Innovation: Through research, promote the preservation and inheritance of Buddhist culture and explore its innovative development in contemporary society. This will help maintain the vitality and relevance of Buddhist culture.
Promotion of Cultural Exchange: Enhance the exchange and mutual understanding of Buddhist culture between different countries and regions. This will contribute to cross – cultural communication and promote global cultural diversity.