Emperor Wu of Liang's Buddhism and Rule

Timeline

1. 502Jiankang · JiangsuXiao Yan received the abdication from Qi and established the Liang dynasty, with its capital at Jiankang, becoming Emperor Wu of Liang. Early in his reign he worked diligently to govern, reforming administration, implementing the equal-field system and household registration, and beginning to shape a political culture centered on Buddhist rule.
2. 504–529Tongtai Temple · JiangsuEmperor Wu of Liang built Buddhist temples on a large scale during his reign and twice devoted himself to Tongtai Temple, ransomed by his ministers. The court promoted vegetarianism and forbade killing; Buddhism became the most prominent cultural force in Southern society, with temple economies and social influence expanding rapidly.
3. 548–549Taicheng · JiangsuAfter Hou Jing's revolt, he besieged the Taicheng in Jiankang; Emperor Wu of Liang was trapped and starved to death in 549 CE. The Buddhist golden age ended amid military disaster, and the Liang dynasty's power suffered a devastating blow, foreshadowing subsequent regime changes.