I-Tsing: Sebuah Studi tentang Perjalanan dan Karya Seorang Biksu Buddha

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I-Tsing, a renowned Chinese Buddhist monk, embarked on a remarkable journey to India in the 7th century CE, seeking to deepen his understanding of Buddhism and bring back sacred texts to his homeland. His travels and contributions have left an indelible mark on the history of Buddhism, shaping the religious landscape of China and influencing the development of Buddhist thought and practice. This article delves into the life and legacy of I-Tsing, exploring his motivations, travels, and the lasting impact of his work.

The Quest for Knowledge

I-Tsing's journey was driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a profound devotion to Buddhism. Born in 635 CE in the Chinese province of Henan, he was ordained as a monk at a young age. However, he soon realized that the Buddhist teachings available in China were incomplete and lacked the depth and richness he sought. Inspired by the accounts of earlier Chinese pilgrims who had traveled to India, I-Tsing resolved to embark on his own pilgrimage to the birthplace of Buddhism.

The Journey to India

In 671 CE, I-Tsing set sail from the Chinese port of Guangzhou, embarking on a perilous voyage across the South China Sea. He reached India after a journey of several months, landing at the port of Tamralipti (modern Kolkata). I-Tsing spent the next nineteen years in India, traveling extensively throughout the country, studying at various Buddhist monasteries, and meticulously collecting Buddhist scriptures and commentaries. He immersed himself in the vibrant intellectual and religious life of India, engaging in debates with scholars and monks, and absorbing the diverse schools of Buddhist thought.

The Return to China

In 690 CE, I-Tsing returned to China, bringing with him a vast collection of Buddhist texts, including over 500 volumes of scriptures and commentaries. He also brought back a wealth of knowledge and insights gained from his interactions with Indian scholars and monks. Upon his return, I-Tsing dedicated himself to translating the scriptures he had collected, making them accessible to a wider audience in China. He also established a Buddhist monastery in Nanjing, where he continued to teach and promote the study of Buddhism.

The Legacy of I-Tsing

I-Tsing's contributions to the development of Buddhism in China were immense. His translations of Buddhist scriptures played a crucial role in shaping the religious landscape of the country, introducing new schools of thought and practices. His writings, including his travelogue "A Record of Buddhist Kingdoms," provided valuable insights into the cultural and religious life of India in the 7th century CE. I-Tsing's work also helped to foster intellectual exchange between China and India, contributing to the spread of Buddhist knowledge and the development of a vibrant Buddhist tradition in China.

Conclusion

I-Tsing's journey to India was a testament to his unwavering commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and his dedication to the propagation of Buddhism. His travels and writings left an enduring legacy, shaping the religious landscape of China and influencing the development of Buddhist thought and practice. His story continues to inspire generations of Buddhists, reminding them of the importance of seeking knowledge, embracing diversity, and fostering cross-cultural understanding.