Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)

by Samuel Beal | 1884 | 224,928 words | ISBN-10: 8120811070

This is the English translation of the travel records of Xuanzang (or, Hiuen Tsiang): a Chinese Buddhist monk who traveled to India during the seventh century. This book recounts his documents his visit to India and neighboring countries, and reflects the condition of those countries during his time, including temples, culture, traditions and fest...

Chapter 6 - Country of Fei-han (Ferghanah)

Note: The distance, about 200 miles south-east of Tāshkand, takes us to the upper waters of the Jaxartes,the actual Khanate of Khokand. The pilgrim did not himself go there, but writes from report.

This kingdom is about 4000 li in circuit. It is enclosed by mountains on every side. The soil is rich and fertile, it produces many harvests, and abundance of flowers and fruits. It is favourable for breeding sheep and horses. The climate is windy and cold. The character of the people is one of firmness and courage. Their language differs from that of the neighbouring countries. Their form is rather poor and mean. For ten years or so the country has had no supreme ruler. The strongest rule by force, and are independent one of another. They divide their separate possessions according to the run of the valleys and mountain barriers. Going from this country[1] westward for 1000 li or so, we come to the kingdom of Su-tu-li-sse-na.

Footnotes and references:

[1]:

Hiuen Tsiang did not go to Ferghānah. The symbol used is chi, not hing. This will explain why the writer of the Life of Hiuen Tsiang (Hwui-lih) omits all mention of Ferghānah, and takes the pilgrim west from Tāshkand to Su-tu-li-sse-na, 1000 li. So that in the text we are to reckon 1000 li (200 miles approximately) not from Khokand, but from Tāshkand. It must be remembered that the kingdom or country of Su-tu-li-sse-na is spoken of, not a town.

Like what you read? Consider supporting this website: