An Shigao: From the History of the Spread of Buddhism in China

The article reviews several historical studies dedicated to the activities of one of the prominent Buddhist monks, An Shigao. A member of the Arsacid royal dynasty of Parthia, An Shigao was among the first to begin translating Buddhist canonical texts. He is credited with authoring 55 works. Despite a number of questionable claims regarding his activities, An Shigao is undoubtedly recognized as a master of meditation, a preacher of contemplative Buddhism, and his teachings were highly regarded by the Chan school of Buddhism.