Chapter 898: Religion
Chapter 939 Politicians Like GrayChapter 898: Religion
To be honest, even Sanzang felt that the crown prince's attitude was rather aggressive.
At first, when the old monk Kana moved with anger, he seemed to lose half his temper. Even then, he still looked very approachable. He said: "Your Highness is the orthodox figure everyone hopes for. The Buddhist sect only seeks a way of life, not to participate in worldly power. I hope your Highness will understand."
Li Chen narrowed his eyes slightly.
He had no fondness for religion, but that didn't stop him from using any means at his disposal to consolidate his power.
Moreover, Zhao Xuanji has not been eradicated yet, and the princes are still eyeing him with covetous glances. His control over the Qin Empire is far from secure enough to sleep soundly. This Buddhist force, if used well, could be a unique weapon.
Even if it was the last resort, I couldn't possibly push these monks into the enemy's arms.
"This is not a place to speak."
Li Chen turned to San Bao and said, "Arrange a secluded place."
Sānbǎo bowed and accepted the order.
For the Three Treasures, finding a quiet place nearby suitable for talking was nothing out of the ordinary.
But it was only a matter of a few minutes when Sanzang came to invite Li Chen to move.
Sān Bǎo truly understood Lǐ Chén. He had found a restaurant, which was empty at this time, clearly cleared out. An excellent box with the best view had been left for Li Chén, allowing him to directly overlook the cityscape of the capital upon arrival.
The old monk naturally followed along as well.
On the balcony of a private room on the third floor of the restaurant, Li Chen sat opposite the old monk. On the table between them was a pot of incense and a pot of clear tea.
Although it was hurriedly set up, you can see the meticulousness and thoughtfulness of the three treasures everywhere.
"Master, let me offer you tea."
Li Chen raised his teacup in invitation, his attitude a stark contrast to his previous aggressive demeanor. At this moment, Li Chen exuded an air of generosity and refinement, making one feel as if basking in the warmth of spring.
The old monk was not polite either, bowing slightly to Li Chen and then taking a sip from his teacup.
After each had a cup of tea, Li Chen went straight to the point.
"During the Qin Dynasty, monks and Taoists were allowed to develop freely without encouragement or hindrance. Every temple or Daoist temple must be subject to local government regulation. Monks going out begging, Taoists conducting rituals, lay people donating funds, building temples, or investing in religious ceremonies - all of these activities are supervised, reviewed, and approved by the local government."
All Buddhist and Taoist disciples who have received their ordination must submit their degrees to the local government for filing and preservation. If they need to travel abroad for alms-gathering, religious ceremonies, or inter-temple exchanges, they must first apply to the official authorities and then carry their degrees with them before being allowed to enter cities, temples, or monasteries.
Li Chen was talking about the laws set by the Qin Empire regarding religion since its founding. These laws have remained unchanged for over three hundred and sixty years.
Its content is simple, but the effect is extremely strong.
On the surface, Buddhism and Taoism are allowed to expand their influence and attract followers. However, all religious activities are effectively brought under control and restricted. Ultimately, all decision-making power rests firmly in the hands of the government.
It was precisely this law that prevented Buddhism and Taoism from flourishing in the Qin Empire for over three hundred years.
However, compared to Buddhism, Taoism is considered better, as the Qin Empire favored Taoism over Buddhism. Even so, Taoism is not entirely free to do as it pleases. Each generation of the Dragon Tiger Mountain Tian師 must accept imperial investiture, otherwise it would be illegal.
Although over three centuries, loopholes have emerged in the enforcement of laws, and there are many places where they are not implemented effectively, overall, the Qin Empire's control over religion far surpassed that of all previous dynasties.
At least there are no delusional alchemists or the like in the imperial court.
Let me know if you have any other text you'd like me to translate!ear to you that I will treat you well, with the hospitality due to a visiting head of state. You will not suffer any hardship or grievance."Yelü Shenxuan originally thought Li Chen wouldn't respond to...