Good Confucianism book (pdf) - Department of Physics

10From the Han to the TangDynasties, 220 – 907 CEAfter the fall of the Han dynasty in 220 CE China was torn apart byrival kingdoms and invasions by peoples from the north and northwest.For almost four hundred years, there was no unifying Chinese dynastythat lasted for very long and fitful peace was all that anyone could hopefor. Finally, in 589, the Sui dynasty unified China under Han Chineserule and was replaced in 618 by the great Tang dynasty (618 – 907) thatstabilized the country and is famous for its art, governance, and internationalrelations. 1Buddhism and Its DevelopmentIt was during this period that Buddhism, which had come from India,grew and prospered, adapting to Chinese culture and becoming both aspiritual and a political force. Buddhism attracted people from every socialrank and built great temples, monasteries, and convents; some Buddhistmonks became tutors of the ruler ’ s children and trusted officials in variousgovernments.Buddhism, unlike the Confucian tradition, offered a system where onecould expect reward for good deeds – a good rebirth. There was justice forthose who did evil because they would have a bad rebirth or go throughlifetimes of hells. For those who aimed higher, Buddhism offered enlightenmentthrough study and meditation, freeing them from the chains ofrebirth. All of this was open to everyone, or at least all men, no mattertheir class, and was presented in beautiful temples, carvings, art, and manytexts.Formed in India, Buddhism brought with it Indian habits of thought andpractice. Monks and nuns left their families and were celibate, not carryingon the family line; they shaved their heads and wore odd clothes. While they