This is truly an interesting topic because religion is such a big factor in most every one's everyday life. I couldn't imagine life without believing what i believe in. Changing an idea that heavy wouldn't cross my mind. The amazing part though is how hundreds of people easily converted into Buddhism in Asia. I guess its all about legitimacy. The rulers promoting Buddhism so extraordinarily was a key factor in Buddhism's successful syncretism. Today with all the laws floating around, there is no push from anyone to believe in anything. All types of religions or even a lack of religion are seen throughout the US. Korea, China, and Japan all had thousands of people converting, so the rulers must have had a large influence on their subjects. Without the rulers aid in spreading Buddhism, the syncretism of Buddhism would never have happened so suddenly and successfully.
-Alex
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I'd say that is very true, but don't forget the belief system itself and what it offered to the people - ESCAPE!! Breaking the cycle of life whether in India or China was a major feature that was appealing to the poor as well as women. Spiritual equality was attained! Even though their earthly bodies were "inferior," women were now on the same level as men spiritually!
I agree that factor played a role in the syncretism of Buddhism but i also believe people would or would not follow that path based on pressure that the government was putting on them. I believe that if the pressure was strong enough, people could be swayed one way or the other.
I agree, it is truly amazing that largely populated countries can switch there religon like Korea, Japan, and China did in aquiring Buddhism.
Nice blog Alex-Craig
"I have opinions of my own -- strong opinions -- but I don't always agree with them."
George Bush
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