The Geography of the Puranas c7.s4.22

c7.s4.22

Another Chinese tradition which goes back to the period of the firm establishment of Buddhism there is East of the Tsing-Ling mountain is the "King of People" (Emperor of China) who bears this title on account of the enormous population of this part of the world. These people have refined manners. Humanity, justice and science flourish there and the land is sweet and pleasant. South of China lies the empire of the "King of Elephants" (or the King of India). This country is hot and humid. It suits the elephants, hence its name. The inhabitants are ferocious and violent, they are devoted to magic and occult sciences, but they also believe in purifying their hearts, and in escaping from the vicissitudes of life and death by sundering worldly ties. On the west is the empire of the "King of Precious Commodities" (the King of Persia, known later by the title of the Caliph of Baghdad). This land touches the sea which produces pearls and precious objects, and which give it its name. The inhabitants do not practise any rites (Buddhist) nor do they have any social laws. They only have an inordinate love for riches. To the north lies the empire of the "King of Horses". The land is cold and hard and is suitable for raising horses. The inhabitants are brave and cruel. They know how to endure death and face danger.¹⁰ It is to be noted that by Tsing-Ling mountains, the Chinese usually meant the Pāmir Plateau and its ranges. It coincides with the Meru of the Purāṇas.¹¹