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BUDDHISM IN CENTRAL ASIA

Dr. KSHANIKA SAHA, MA, D. Phil

PREFACE

The present work which contains an account, as far as possible of Buddhism and Buddhist Literature in Central Asia is divided into four chapters.

The first Chapter is a study of the geographical and topographical account of Central Asia with reference to two trade routes between India and China through Central Asia. They have been described here on the basis of the itinerary of Chinese pilgrim Hiuen-Tsang and the accounts of European archaeologists.

The second Chapter deals with history of the introduction of Buddhism to Central Asia by India monks. This was effected by the adventurous missionaries of Kashmir and Gandhara. The materials at our disposal are indeed scanty in this respect. Traditions and Kharosthi inscriptions which are the main sources have been fully taken into account here. Biographies of the monks who are foremost in introducing Buddhism in Central Asia have also been added.

The third Chapter deals with the Manuscript Remains in Central Asia. These manuscript finds reveal that the literary activities were carried on by the Indian, Parthian and local monks. Translations were made not only in Chinese but also in the local dialects mainly for the benefit of the different tribes living there.

The fourth Chapter, the concluding chapter discusses the Monastic system in Central Asia. It is shown that monks in Central Asia in later days took interest more in secular matters than in ecclesiastical affairs, Pali, Buddhist Sanskrit, Tibetan and Chinese texts and Kharosthi inscription have also been taken into account.

I express my heartfelt gratitude to my old and venerable Professor Dr. Nalinaksha Dutt who inspired me with all possible help including the Foreword which introduces the book.

Lastly, I must thank my younger sister Manika and my little niece Sagarika for their help in preparing the index.

                                                                              Kshanika Saha

CONTENTS

CHAPTER I.  Geographical and Topographical account Central Asia

CHAPTER II. Introduction of Buddhism into Central Asia by Indian monks

CHAPTER III. Manuscript Remains in Central Asia

CHAPTER IV Monastic life in Central Asia and its secularism and independences

BIBLIOGRAPHY

INDEX

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