great state of white and high, The

By Ruth W. Dunnell

Book Description

This groundbreaking historical study unveils the remarkable story of the Tangut people and their extraordinary Buddhist empire that flourished for nearly two centuries in medieval Asia. Ruth Dunnell draws upon primary sources in multiple languages to reconstruct the rise of the Xia empire, a multiethnic state that emerged in the late tenth century across what is now Ningxia, Shaanxi, Gansu, and Inner Mongolia.

The Tangut rulers, ethnically and linguistically connected to Tibetan peoples, created a unique civilization that skillfully blended Chinese administrative practices with Inner Asian cultural traditions and deep Buddhist spirituality. Their devotion to Buddhist teachings became legendary throughout Asia, establishing them as exemplars of religious dedication and spiritual practice.

From its formal establishment as an imperial state in 1038 until its final destruction by Chinggis Khan in 1227, the Xia empire represented a fascinating synthesis of diverse cultural and spiritual influences. Dunnell's meticulous scholarship offers readers the first comprehensive English-language exploration of this lost civilization, revealing how the Tangut people navigated the complex political landscape of medieval Asia while maintaining their commitment to Buddhist principles.

This pioneering work provides valuable insights into how spiritual traditions can shape entire civilizations and offers a compelling example of cultural adaptation and religious devotion in the face of historical challenges.