Po-Srimitra

Life

Born into the royal family of Kucha (龜茲) in Central Asia, Śrīmitra renounced his princely status in favor of his younger brother and adopted monastic life. Around 307–312 CE, during the chaotic Yongjia era of the Western Jin dynasty, he traveled to southern China and settled at Jianchu Temple (建初寺) in Jiankang (present-day Nanjing).

Śrīmitra earned the nickname Gaozuo (高座, "High Seat") for his dignified presence and scholarly reputation. He quickly garnered the respect of high-level officials and aristocrats, including Prime Minister Wang Dao, Yuwen and Du family members, and regional elites such as Yu Liang and Zhou Yi. His manner—ranging from casual to solemn depending on his interlocutor—was admired for demonstrating both wisdom and cultural sensitivity.

He was skilled in chant and ritual arts and credited with teaching high-pitched Sanskrit chanting (梵唄) and translating early dhāraṇī texts, notably the Mahamayuri Vidyarajni Sutra ("Peacock King Sutra"), marking the introduction of esoteric ritual scripture in Southern China.

When high officials like Zhou Yi fell victim to Wang Dun's rebellion, Śrīmitra visited their families personally, reciting esoteric chants at funeral rites—earning admiration for his compassion and composure. He died in 343 CE (during the Xian’kang era) at approximately age 80, and was interred at Shizigang. A monastery called Gaotzuo Temple (高座寺) was later established at his burial site, reportedly by decree of Emperor Cheng of Jin.