Foguangsi's Political and Religious Harmony

Embark on a journey to uncover the mysteries of Foguangsi the Monastery of Buddha's Radiance situated on the southern ranges of Mount Wutai in present-day Shanxi province. This monastic complex set against the sacred backdrop of Mount Wutai has long been revered as a prominent center of the Avata?saka School and the dwelling place of the Bodhisattva Mañju?r?.While Foguangsi has been lauded as a pinnacle of ancient Chinese architecture its in-depth exploration has been overlooked in modern scholarship. This thesis endeavors to rectify this oversight through a comprehensive case study delving into the art architecture and the socio-religious context in which they were created.Tracing the history of Foguangsi from its Tang dynasty origins the study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of this sacred site. Beyond architectural aesthetics it seeks to unravel the intricate tapestry of social and religious influences that shaped the art and architecture of Foguangsi offering a holistic perspective on this ancient marvel.