ABSTRACT

This chapter provides an exposition of the conundrum of Buddha and emperor found in the Buddhist history as it transmitted from India to the other parts of the world. In India, there was a distinction between Buddha and Cakravartin, translated as the universal monarch. In China, there emerged a tense relationship between the Buddhist sangha and the Chinese emperor regarding how the former should greet the latter. A strong rule by Chinese emperors made the separation of politics and religion possible in China. As for Tibet, this chapter examines Lama Tsongkhapa’s relationship with Tibetan rulers such as King Miwang at around the turn of the 15th century. Further, it explains the very important letter Tsongkhapa wrote to Yongle Emperor of China in response to the latter’s invitation to the Chinese capital. Although Tsongkhapa declined the invitation politely, this chapter explains why both Yongle Emperor and Tsongkhapa might have won in their exchanges.

Keywords: Buddha and Emperor; Buddha and Cakravartin; Buddhist Sangha; Lama Tsongkhapa; Yongle Emperor; King Miwang.