Indian and Vietnamese Buddhism: Similarities and Differences

Abstract:

Introduction: India and Southeast Asia have a rich history of cultural exchanges and trade relationships, significantly impacted by transnational migration and cross-cultural movements (Woodward, 2004; Van, 2020). This study explores the Indian cultural influence on Southeast Asia, particularly focusing on the introduction and development of Buddhism in Vietnam. Methods: Through a historical and doctrinal analysis, this research examines primary and secondary sources, including inscriptions, ancient texts, and scholarly articles. The study adopts a comparative approach to trace the evolution of Buddhism in both India and Vietnam, analyzing key philosophical tenets, ritual practices, and socio-cultural impacts. Results: The maritime commercial network in Asia during the first two centuries of the Common Era facilitated the spread of Buddhism into Vietnam, strengthening commercial and cultural ties between India and Vietnam (Taylor, 2017). Northern Vietnam became a center for Buddhist learning, attracting pilgrims and missionaries. Vietnamese Buddhism uniquely did not integrate Hindu gods, aligning more closely with Confucianist and Taoist traditions. An inscription from 875 C.E. documents the construction of a Buddhist temple and monastery by Indravarman II, marking a significant event in the history of Vietnamese Buddhism (Nguyen Lang, 2000). Discussion: The study reveals shared doctrinal foundations rooted in early Indian Buddhism and their evolution within Vietnam’s unique cultural context (Ariyaratne, 2010). While Indian Buddhism influenced Vietnamese practices, Vietnam adapted Buddhism to fit its own cultural ethos, resulting in both intersections and divergences in Buddhist development (Taylor, 2017; Dao, 2018). Conclusion: This research enhances the understanding of Buddhism’s historical journey and fosters cross-cultural dialogue. It highlights the intricate interactions between Indian and Vietnamese cultures, demonstrating the selective adoption of elements consistent with Vietnamese beliefs. The study contributes to appreciating the diversity within the global Buddhist community and the nuanced influence of Indian culture on Southeast Asian Buddhism.

Keywords:

Buddhism; Cultural adaptation; Doctrinal analysis; Eightfold path; Four noble truths; Indian Buddhism; Vietnamese Buddhism.

Citation: Trần Thị Vân Dung and Nayan Deep Singh Kanwal (2024). Indian and Vietnamese Buddhism: Similarities and Differences. Horizon J. Hum. Soc. Sci. Res. 6 (1), 8–17. https://doi.org/10.37534/bp.jhssr.2024.v6.n1.id1240.p8