The Image Transformation and Literary Writing of Buddhist Temples in Northern Wei Luoyang

Bibliographic Data

ID3361869
AuthorsYan Gong (0009-0007-8344-692X, Beijing Normal University, corresponding author)
Year2025
Volume16
Issue3
Pages287
Publication date2025-02-25
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueReligions (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2077-1444 • E-ISSN: 2077-1444
PublisherMDPI AG (PUBLISHER • IT)
DOI10.3390/rel16030287
OpenAlexW4407942733
LanguageEN
References cited2

This article examines the functional transformation of Buddhist temples from religious edifices to elements of the political landscape in Northern Wei Luoyang, in order to elucidate the grandiose portrayal of these temples in geographical records. The proliferation of Buddhism significantly altered the spatial configuration of the capital city, previously dominated by imperial architectural complexes. Buddhist temples emerged as emblematic structures of Luoyang, surpassing palaces in prominence due to their extensive occupation of urban space, enhancement of the empire's international standing, and involvement in the political vicissitudes of Northern Wei. Yang Xuanzhi drew upon the literary techniques of Han fu 漢賦, particularly its elaborate descriptive style, to articulate the sentiments of the emperor's subjects and extol the ruler's virtue while subtly conveying criticism and advice. By shaping Buddhist temples into imperial landscapes, Yang Xuanzhi conferred on Luoyang a legitimacy comparable to that of the Han Dynasty. The evolving social functions and literary representations of Buddhist temples during the Northern Wei Dynasty reflect the profound integration of Buddhism, politics, and literature

Archaeology · Art · Buddhism · Literature · Chinese history and philosophy · Computer Science · Educational Reforms and Innovations · History · Medical Research and Treatments · Artificial Intelligence

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