Encyclopedia of India–China Cultural Contacts v1.c7.s4.t3.5

v1.c7.s4.t3.5

of 30 pieces of silks for atone his mistakes. Emperor Ming of Han declared: “King of Chu reads teachings of Emperor Huang and Lao Tzu and advocates kindness of pagoda. He cleaned himself and abstained from meat and alcohol for three months and made vows to the Heaven. What sin does he have and what confession should he make? Return the tributes back to him and sumptuous dinner of lay Buddhists and *sramanas*.” This declaration was spread to all kingdoms. The academic circle thinks that the recording about Liu Ying is the earliest prove about Buddhism being missionised in China. It is said that Emperor Ming of Han dreamed a golden man, stood tall and there was light above his head. The next day, Emperor Ming asked his chancellors about his dream. Someone said: “There is an immortal in the west named Buddha who is six Chinese inches tall and golden.” King of Chu, Liu Ying, began to believe Buddha’s teaching. Emperor Huan of Han was fond of divinities and sacrificed to Buddha and Lao Tzu many times. Firstly, only a few people believed in Buddha but gradually, Buddhism flourished. And Buddhism was spread in China.