Master Jianzhen: A High Priest of the Tang Dynasty and a Bridge of Culture

Jianzhen, a renowned Buddhist monk of the Tang Dynasty, was an important figure in Chinese history. His life was not only a religious legend, but also an essential bond in the cultural exchange between China and Japan. This article will elaborate on Jianzhen's life, achievements, and his significant role in the cultural exchange between China and Japan.

Jianzhen (688-763 AD), surnamed Zhang and given name Yi, was later respectfully known as Master Jianzhen. He was born in Yangzhou during the reign of Emperor Gaozong of Tang and was exceptionally intelligent from a young age. By the age of eighteen, he had already mastered Buddhist scriptures and later received full ordination at the Dachien Temple in Chang'an, becoming an official monk. Master Jianzhen had profound understanding of Buddhist scriptures, as well as unique insights in medicine, astronomy, and calendar calculations.

Master Jianzhen's mastery of Buddhism was profound. He lectured on Buddhist scriptures at places like the Dachien Temple in Chang'an and the Baima Temple in Luoyang, earning the respect of believers. His explanations were easy to understand, allowing him to impart complex Buddhist teachings to the masses, attracting numerous followers and further expanding the influence of Buddhism.

Apart from promoting Buddhism domestically, Master Jianzhen was also dedicated to spreading Chinese culture overseas. During the Kaiyuan period of Emperor Xuanzong of Tang, Japanese monks such as Rongrui and Puzhao came to China to study Buddhism. Impressed by Master Jianzhen's profound Buddhist teachings, they earnestly requested him to travel to Japan to preach. Master Jianzhen resolutely accepted their request and began preparations for his eastward journey, which lasted twelve years.

During these twelve years, Master Jianzhen attempted to cross the sea five times but failed due to storms, diseases, and other reasons. It was only on the sixth attempt, in 753 AD, that he finally succeeded in reaching Japan on a ship sent by the Tang envoy, bringing with him a large quantity of Buddhist scriptures, statues, medicinal herbs, and other cultural materials.

Master Jianzhen's preaching activities in Japan were a great success. He established the Toshodai Temple in Japan and introduced Chinese Buddhist art, architectural styles, and medical knowledge, greatly contributing to the development of Japanese culture. He also taught Japanese monks and doctors, enabling them to learn and master China's advanced knowledge and technology.

Master Jianzhen's influence in Japan was not limited to the religious sphere; he actively participated in social affairs, contributing to Japan's social stability and cultural development. His disciples also became important figures in Japanese Buddhism, continuing to propagate and uphold Master Jianzhen's teachings.

Master Jianzhen's life was filled with legends. He was not only a great Buddhist monk but also a cultural envoy. His efforts enabled the spread of Chinese Buddhist culture overseas and laid a solid foundation for the friendly relations between China and Japan. In summary, Master Jianzhen was a historical figure with significant influence in both China and Japan. His life and achievements not only reflect his personal religious beliefs and pursuits but also showcase the open spirit and proactive attitude of Tang China towards external exchanges. Master Jianzhen's story continues to inspire people to explore, learn, and transmit the power of culture.

　　Disclaimer: The above content is sourced from the internet and the copyright belongs to the original author. If there is any infringement of your original copyright, please inform us and we will delete the relevant content as soon as possible.