An Analysis and Review of Civilly Restraining Buddhism by Emperor Shizong in late Zhou Dynasty

Among theFour Buddhist Misfortunes,the restricting Buddhism by Emperor Shizong was the mildest and the most rational one.The measures of restricting and rectifying Buddhism were severe,but also orderly,comprehensive and gentle.Even those places without Buddhist tmples were granted quota to build up or increase them.The principle of One who studies well could became a was practiced.To build temple needs granting quota,to tonsure monks needs the clerical certificate,to become a monk need to pass the examination of the Buddhist scriptures these become three bridles for restricting and controlling Buddhism.Some witchcrafts,the ignorant,savages,superstitious and fanatical behaviors and rites which were related with Buddhism and Taoism were banned together.The reason for civil restriction of Buddhism is that the rulers were more experienced,there was not an agitator of it,the Buddhism had been Sintitic and there were not many Buddhist temples and monks.