The “Mutual Influence” Between Buddhism and Political Factors in Its Spread and Development in Japan

Abstract

Since Buddhism was introduced to Japan in the 6th century – through individual efforts like Sima Da from China’s Southern Liang Dynasty and the official introduction by King Seong of Baekje from the Korean Peninsula – its spread and development in Japan have been closely intertwined with the political environment. Historical events such as the two prohibitions of Buddhism by the Mononoke clan during the Kofun period, Prince Shotoku’s promulgation of the Seventeen-Article Constitution that advocated respect for the “Three Treasures” in the Asuka period, the introduction of the clerical system in the Nara period, the division during the Muromachi period, and the implementation of the temple registration system in the Edo period all reflect Buddhism’s fluctuating influence and religious status in Japan. This paper primarily examines the political changes, and regime shifts during key periods, such as the Kofun, Asuka, Nara, and Kamakura periods, to explore how political factors—including government religious policies, socioeconomic conditions, and national political landscapes—impacted the spread and localization of Buddhism in Japan. It further analyzes how Buddhism, in turn, influenced Japan’s political environment, revealing the “mutual influence” between Buddhism and political factors throughout Japanese history.