Since its introduction into China two millennia ago,

Buddhism has been accepted, digested, absorbed and

transformed to nourish the spirit of the nation, providing

sustenance to the Chinese soul. Such disciplines as

philosophy, religion, culture and the arts have all

been deeply influenced by Buddhism. Its impact was

profound on the worldview, outlook on life, and values

of the Chinese people. Indeed, Buddhism has been an

inextricable part of China’s distinguished traditional

culture, entwined with popular customs, lifestyles and

attitudes. China also became a second homeland to

Buddhism.

How can Chinese Buddhism survive and develop in

the present era? This is an issue of concern not only to

the Buddhist community, but to our society at large. It

has great significance for the preservation of our cultural

roots, promotion of national peace and happiness, and

development of social harmony and stability. It even

affects our interaction with a multicultural world, for the

purpose of coexisting peacefully and enjoying common

prosperity.

This essay attempts to analyze the current status

of Chinese Buddhism and assess its prospects – how it

can avoid crisis and ignite hope. The author is acutely

aware of its shortcomings and only wishes to initiate a

discussion.

B08«Buddhism in China: Past, Present and Future ????:????????»