Overview:
When the Silk Roads were created, they weren’t only used for economic purposes, but for religious ones too. Merchants, missionaries and other travelers would spread their beliefs, values, and religious convictions with travelers and locals. Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Manichaeism were one of many religions that were spread through the Silk Roads. These four religions relied on the trade routes of classical times to extend its influence to new lands and people. |
The Spread Of ChristianityChristianity originated in Jerusalem when Jesus of Nazareth taught people about devotion to God and love for all. When Romans heard about Jesus they decided to stop this by fixing him onto a cross. When the Romans crucified him onto a cross, His movement did not stop at all. People said they felt his presence and continued to spread His teachings.
Many Christians and missionaries continued to spread His beliefs the following years. Famous missionaries such as Paul of Tarsus and Gregory the Wonderworker were the main ones to encourage the spread of Christianity. People didn’t accept Christianity until the 3rd century C.E.. |
The Spread Of BuddhismThe creation of Buddhism originated from northern India. It spread to many places such as Central Asia, China, Iran, and southeast Asia. Buddhism became well established in northern India thanks to the sponsorship of the emperor Ashoka. Buddhism wasn’t accepted until the 5th century C.E..
|
The Spread Of HinduismHinduism has no clear founder or foundation date. It is mainly found in India and has been known to exist forever. The tradition understands itself as being timeless and changes overtime by outside factors. The religion of Hinduism spread alongside Buddhism. Although they were spread together. Hinduism spread mainly to southern Asia while Buddhism didn’t.
|
The Spread Of Manichaeism
Manichaeism was the faith derived from the prophet Mani, a devoted Zoroastrian from Babylon in Mesopotamia. Mani regarded Zarathustra as the prophet of Persia, Buddha as the prophet of India, and Jesus as the prophet of the Mediterranean world. Mani then saw a need for a prophet for all humanity, and so he promoted a syncretic blend of Zoroastrian, Christian, and Buddhist elements as a religious faith that would serve the needs of a cosmopolitan world.
|
Religions And Religious Beliefs Along The Silk Roads