Mogao Religion

Words: 740
Pages: 3

Significant Archeological finds have displayed tremendous accreditation to anthropological research, and inevitably uncovering the hidden reminiscence of religiosity within each culture. Although the aforementioned accounts are widespread, many archeological sites such as the “Caves of Faith” have been represented as a powerful symbol, and not simply a product of human activity. Xuanzang, a Buddhist Monk, revisited awe-inspiring perceptions amongst his journey along the Silk road in A.D 629. Paradoxically, it was not the immense archeological accomplishment that consoled his weary soul, but rather the essence of buddhism that followed. In an era that progressed many ideological influences, not one had come close to the societal impact in which buddhism catalyzed within China (Larmer, 2010). A consistent burgeoning of ideology, that ultimately inspired many diverse people into creating one of the great marvels of the Buddhist world, the Mogao caves. Thousands of Buddhas as far as the eyes can see …show more content…
Larmer (2010) employs that the lack of destruction is due to the sheer competitive drive of people. Instead of destroying the creations of their predecessors (and even enemies), each prevailing kingdom established a new grotto after the next, proceeding their worth amongst the cave walls. Obviously, such preservation lead to many anthropologically influenced individuals such as Wang Yuanlu, Aurel Stein, and Langdon Warner to seek out the caves. Unsurprisingly, this lead to much of the destruction of the caves, leaving scars and wounds amongst the murals and sculptures. Despite the despicable treasure hunters that ravaged the monument over time, it appears apparent that with necessity arises those that fight to protect the sanctity of history, such as Fan Jinshi (Larmer,