Chan+(Zen)+Buddhism

During the Tang and Song Eras of China, a new form of Buddhism became widespread throughout the aristocracy. Chan Buddhism, or known as Zen in Japan, stressed meditation and the acknowledgment of artistic beauty and nature. The main purpose for Chan followers were to become all knowing and be filled with wisdom. This in return would release the follower in the endless cycle of rebirth. Slowly, Buddhism grew to favor most of the Chinese population and affected China politically and socially. When Empress Wu became ruler of the Tang Dynasty, she exploited the religion by ordering statues of Buddha and aesthetic pictures. After Wu's reign, Emperor Wuzong created restrictions on Buddhists, and from then on, Buddhism was never able to gain authority as they did during the beginning of the Tang Dynasty.

http://www.ccds.charlotte.nc.us/History/Japan/02/miklos/miklos.htm

http://www.wsu.edu/~dee/FEUJAPAN/ZEN.HTM

Created by Christina Oelsner 10/10/08 Edited by Kelly Herring 11.10.08 Edited by Anna Mack 11-10-08