Faxian

Faxian (also spelled Fâ-Hien or Fa-Hsien) was a Chinese Buddhist monk who lived during the 4th and 5th centuries CE. He is renowned for his remarkable pilgrimage to India, which he undertook to obtain and study Buddhist scriptures. Faxian's journey lasted from 399 to 414 CE and covered thousands of miles, taking him through various countries and regions. Faxian's primary objective was to collect Buddhist scriptures and deepen his understanding of the Buddhist teachings. He traveled through...See more

Faxian (also spelled Fâ-Hien or Fa-Hsien) was a Chinese Buddhist monk who lived during the 4th and 5th centuries CE. He is renowned for his remarkable pilgrimage to India, which he undertook to obtain and study Buddhist scriptures. Faxian's journey lasted from 399 to 414 CE and covered thousands of miles, taking him through various countries and regions. Faxian's primary objective was to collect Buddhist scriptures and deepen his understanding of the Buddhist teachings. He traveled through dangerous terrains, encountered diverse cultures, and visited renowned Buddhist sites along the way. His travels took him to important Buddhist centers such as India. During his pilgrimage, Faxian meticulously recorded his observations, experiences, and encounters. His writings provide valuable insights into the religious, social, and cultural aspects of the regions he visited, as well as the state of Buddhism during that time. Faxian's work, "A Record of Buddhistic Kingdoms," is considered one of the earliest and most comprehensive accounts of Buddhist pilgrimage and the spread of Buddhism in Asia. Faxian's pilgrimage and his commitment to studying and preserving Buddhist scriptures exemplify his dedication to his faith and the pursuit of knowledge. His writings continue to be studied and admired as significant contributions to both Buddhist and historical scholarship. See less