China has completed cataloguing of ancient Buddhist scriptures with a history of more than two thousand years. This is the result of years of efforts to collect and photocopy the precious pages in Southwest China’s Tibetan autonomus region.
Another step to uncover more about the origins of Buddhism. The pattra leaf scriptures record classical works in Sanskrit, including literature, law and algorithms in ancient Buddhist culture.
This over 1,000 pieces-large volume is a big event for researchers of Buddhist culture.
Lhapa Phunisok, director general of China Tibetology Research Center, says, "The origin of the Buddism lies in the lines of the scripture, it is truly significant for South Asian countries in finding out more information."
Tibet has the largest collection of the scriptures. Its dry geological conditions and culture helped locals to preserve them well.
China initiated the project 6 years ago, in a bid to rescue and preserve the pieces scattered in the region over the past thousands of years. Nearly 60,000 were collected.
Lhapa Phuntsok also says, "It is also significant for us to know the history of cultural exchanges between China and South Asian countries inclduing Nepal and India."
Buddhists in South-Asian countries favoured the pattra-leaves for their light and water-resistanct qualities, inscribing on them with stencil pens.
Originated from India, the scriptures were introduced to Southweastern China’s yunnan province and Tibet Autonomous region during religious exchanges.
It formed the foundation of Buddhism, and is hoped to add more pages to China’s rich civilization.