Analysis of the Diffusion Process of Buddhist Vocabulary from Memoirs of Eminent Monks

The diffusion process of Buddhist vocabulary can be divided into three stages of primary diffusion, standardization and classification, and profound integration. Biographies of monks are the links in the integration of the Buddhist terms with the midland Chinese language. The Buddhist vocabulary in Memoirs of Eminent Monks has accurately reflected the basic pattern of diffusion of Buddhist vocabulary during the Southern and Northern Dynasties. Key words: Buddhist vocabulary; Diffusion of vocabulary; Memoirs of Eminent Monks