[Buddha-l] Buddhism and the "status quo"

[curt]

Richard Hayes wrote:
> On Thu, 21 Sep 2006 16:05:14 -0400
>  
>> Please excuse my ignorance 
>
> I would if I could, but it is not in my power to relieve anyone from 
> the dukkha they experience because of their ignorance.

It is always under one's power to decide how to respond to another 
person's faults. For example, I could forgive you for not knowing that. 
But I won't. My choice.

>
> - but could you provide
>> approximate dates or any other specifics. I assume you are talking 
>> about China - but my knowledge of Chinese history is extremely sparse.  
>
> As I recall, Buddhists persecuted Christians during the reign of Wu 
> Zetian (625-705).
>
>
>
Thanks for this reference! I was not previously familiar with this 
fascinating Empress. Perhaps we could compile a list of Asian rulers who 
have persecuted Christians, or anyone else, and then put it side by side 
with a list of European Christian rulers who have persecuted other 
religions. Although as a general rule I am not fond of the 
"quantitative" approach to history, I think in this case it might prove 
illuminating.

- Curt