Description
Vol. 1 – Chinese Accounts of India by Samuel Beal (1825-1889) presents translations of early Chinese pilgrims’ travel records to India. It highlights descriptions of Buddhist sites, cultural practices, and geographical details. Beal’s scholarly work preserves invaluable insights into India’s religious history and its influence on Chinese civilization.Vol. 2 – Chinese Accounts of India explores further records of Chinese monks who journeyed across India. It documents sacred Buddhist shrines, monasteries, and traditions. Beal’s translations provide historical connections between India and China, showcasing cultural exchange, religious devotion, and the transmission of Buddhist philosophy across Asia.Vol. 3 – Chinese Accounts of India delves into detailed pilgrim narratives, especially those of Faxian and Xuanzang. It provides first-hand descriptions of Indian rulers, society, and Buddhist learning centers. Beal’s work reveals how India’s spiritual heritage shaped Asian culture, while offering historians reliable translations of ancient Chinese texts.Vol. 4 – Chinese Accounts of India completes the series with additional travel accounts and commentary. It emphasizes the continuity of Buddhism’s influence across India and beyond. Beal’s translations enrich understanding of intercultural ties, preserving records of temples, rituals, and educational centers, making the series a cornerstone of Buddhist and Indian historical studies.
