Once upon a time in India, a white elephant offered a woman a lotus flower and then entered her side. This elephant became Siddhartha; the Buddha. Buddhism eventually formed after Siddharth's long journey to find enlightenment. In time Buddhism would spread out of India and into China. One reason it was able to flow into China was it's teachings and simple message appealed to the masses. In addition it created a social concept that many latched onto. Finally with these aspects in mind many people were already attracted to it so numerous temples and chapels formed making the transfer for newbies more easy, adding to the Buddhist population and keeping it's momentum as it moved forward through China.
With the 4 Noble Truths, wisdom, and Nirvana (Doc 1,2,3) part of its regimen, Buddhism enticed many people and drew them in. They would have learned, probably from missionaries, that the 4 Noble truths would help them avoid suffering and in the end maybe be free of it (Doc 1). Buddhism also gave them an answer that Confucianism could not, which is where their suffering came from (Doc 3). Sorrow arises from craving and can be stopped by following the fourth Noble Truth which is the way to Nirvana (Doc 1). Finally they learned that Buddha's teachings could lead an orderly society, which was in high demand because during this time considering China was experiencing a period of political instability and disunity (Doc 5, Section II). These are only three reasons why Buddhism satisfied people, and there are many more messages that dragged Buddhism evermore through China. .
Chinese women did not have many liberties in 220 C.E. and still in the times after. However Buddhism offers no gender bias and the creation of a Sangha, a community of Buddhists. These social concepts beguiled many in China. Whoever in China who serves the Buddha, observes the commandments, and recites Buddhist Scriptures will when his soul passes away will be enlightened in the Buddha's spirit and enter Nirvana.
