SWAT: Junsei Terasawa, a prominent Buddhist monk from Japan, on Sunday emphasised the profound historical and cultural connections between the ancient region of Gandhara and Japan, particularly in shaping Japan’s early legal and spiritual foundations.

Talking to Dawn during his visit to Swat, he highlighted how Buddhist teachings from Gandhara inspired Japan’s Seventeen-Article Constitution, created by Prince Shotoku in 604 CE.

“Gandhara and Swat played an influential role in the development of the Japanese constitution. The wisdom of Buddhism, which travelled from this region to Japan, deeply influenced Prince Shotoku and Princess Shotoku, who were instrumental in embedding Buddhist principles into Japan’s governance and culture,” he said.

According to archaeologists, Gandhara, an ancient region spanning the present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan, was a centre of Buddhist learning and art.

Terasawa explained that Swat valley, known in ancient times as Uddiyana, was often referred to as the “cradle of Vajrayana Buddhism.” This form of esoteric Buddhism later spread to Tibet, China and Japan, carrying with it the spiritual and intellectual legacy of Gandhara, he added.

“Swat valley was a hub of spiritual and intellectual activity. Its monasteries and scholars were renowned across Asia and their influence extended far beyond this region,” he said.

Terasawa also referenced the “Sora system,” likely alluding to Sogdian or Central Asian trade networks that facilitated exchange of ideas, art and religion between Gandhara and East Asia. The Sogdians, key intermediaries in Silk Road trade, played a crucial role in transmitting Buddhist teachings, art and practices from Gandhara to Japan and Southeast Asia.

“Sora system symbolises the interconnectedness of ancient civilisations. Through these networks, Buddhist teachings and art forms travelled across continents, leaving a lasting impact on Japanese culture,” he said.

Terasawa said that Buddhism reached Japan in the 6th century CE via Korea and China, carrying with it the artistic and spiritual traditions of Gandhara. Gandhara School of Art, known for its unique Greco-Buddhist style, influenced Japanese Buddhist art and architecture. He said that the teachings and art forms originating in Gandhara and Swat were adapted to local cultures, enriching Japan’s spiritual and artistic heritage.

“Gandhara School of Art left a profound mark on East Asia. The depiction of Buddha in Japan bears the imprint of Gandhara’s artistic legacy,” he said.

The exchange between Gandhara and Japan was not limited to religion. It encompassed philosophy, governance, art and science. Buddhist monasteries in Gandhara served as centres of learning, attracting scholars and monks from across Asia. These individuals carried the teachings of Buddha to distant lands, including Japan, where they were integrated into local traditions.

“Gandhara was a melting pot of cultures. Its influence on Japan is a testament to the power of cultural and spiritual exchange,” said Terasawa.

He said that the historical connection between Gandhara and Japan was celebrated through cultural exchanges, academic research and Buddhist pilgrimages. “Swat valley remains a site of immense historical and spiritual importance, drawing scholars and pilgrims from around the world,” he said.

Terasawa said that the legacy of Gandhara continued to inspire and connect people across Asia and beyond. “Its wisdom and spirit have left an indelible mark on Japanese culture and governance. The spirit is from the Gandhara Spirit, and the Seventeen-Article Constitution follows the spirit of the Gandhara bodhisattva ideal,” he added.

Published in Dawn, January 27th, 2025