Encyclopedia of India–China Cultural Contacts v2.c12.s1.t1.9

v2.c12.s1.t1.9

similar to *Sakyamuni* originally in India but he was confused with the Cloth Bag Monk in China in the period of Five Dynasties, his image was changed and he became big-bellied and laughed all the time. This image was popular among common people, became the symbol of good luck and happiness and was loved and admired greatly. After Sui and Tang Dynasties, his symbol as dynastic succession was used by hostile forces. For example, Song Zixian from Hebei and Xiang Haiming from Shaanxi “claimed themselves as the rebirth of Maitreya and plotted rebellions,” (volume XXII of *Book of the Sui*) in Sui Dynasty. Wang Ze of Song Dynasty, Han Shantong of Yuan Dynasty, White Lotus Society of Qing Dynasty, contemporary Black and Red Gang and I-Kuan Taoadored Maitreya.