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Band Timeline

476

Birth and Early Life of Tanluan

Tanluan was born in the year 476 in Shanxi, China, near the sacred mountain Wu-t’ai shan. From a young age, he was drawn to religious and spiritual practices, frequently visiting holy sites in the region. His early life was marked by an immersion in the Buddhist monastic community, where he began his studies in the prominent Sanlun (Madhyamaka) and Yogacara Buddhist schools.
Early 6th century

Transition from Taoism to Pure Land Buddhism

Initially exploring Taoism in hopes of achieving physical immortality, Tanluan studied under Taoist master Tao Hongjing. However, his spiritual journey took a pivotal turn when he encountered the Indian Buddhist monk Bodhiruci in the city of Loyang. Bodhiruci introduced him to the Amitayus Sutra, a key text in Pure Land Buddhism. This encounter inspired Tanluan to abandon his Taoist practices and embrace Pure Land Buddhism fully, directing his efforts towards the practice of nianfo, or the recollection of the Buddha.
Early 6th century

Development and Teaching of Pure Land Doctrine

Following his conversion to Pure Land Buddhism, Tanluan dedicated himself to studying and teaching this form of Buddhism. He developed important doctrines emphasizing the Buddha's Other Power as essential for salvation and liberation. This approach proposed that sincere practice of nianfo would allow practitioners to be reborn in the Pure Land, a blissful realm presided over by Amitābha Buddha. Tanluan's teachings significantly shaped the development of Pure Land Buddhism across East Asia.
Early 6th century

Imperial Recognition and Monastic Leadership

Tanluan's growing reputation as a Pure Land Buddhist master attracted the attention of the Wei Dynasty's emperor, who honored him with the title 'Shen-Luan' (Divine Bird). The emperor entrusted him with stewardship of the Ta-yen Ssu Monastery in Ping-chou, a prestigious position that allowed Tanluan to further propagate Pure Land teachings. Later, he moved to the Hsüan-chung Ssu Monastery near Pei-shan cliffs in Shanxi, where he gathered a community of devoted disciples dedicated to the practice of nianfo.
c. 542

Passing and Legacy

Tanluan passed away around the year 542 at approximately 66 years of age, reportedly in a secluded mountain monastery in Ping-yao. By the time of his death, he had established himself as a pivotal figure in Chinese Buddhism, particularly as an early architect of Pure Land doctrine. His teachings and writings laid foundational principles that deeply influenced subsequent Pure Land masters and sects, especially in Japan, where he is honored as the Third Patriarch of Pure Land Buddhism.
Writings and Contributions

Major Works and Philosophical Impact

Tanluan's most notable work is his Commentary on Vasubandhu's Treatise on the Pure Land, which is considered the first systematic Chinese treatise on Pure Land Buddhism. His writings emphasized attaining non-retrogressive bodhisattva status through rebirth in the Pure Land and integrated Madhyamaka philosophical concepts. He also authored 'Verses in Praise of Buddha Amitabha' and a 'Condensed Commentary on the Significance of the Pure Land of Peace and Bliss.' Though some of his works have faced authenticity questions, his doctrinal impact remains profound in Mahayana Buddhism.
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

亂彈阿翔

N/A

Lead vocals

亂彈阿翔

N/A

Electric guitar

Story of Luan Tan

Luan Tan, a renowned Taiwanese band, adopted "Luan Tan" from the traditional Taiwanese Northern Opera style "Luan Tan Xi" as their band name. Their live performances are energetic, vibrant, and incredibly passionate. In 1997, they released their debut album "Hope," fusing Taiwanese folk music with rock and roll to create an avant-garde style that drew attention from all sectors and earned them numerous awards and recognition.

After releasing their second album "Lantern" in 2000, the band ceased performing. They participated in the Super Slipper Party 3 concert in 2012.

== Members == Luan Tan is a four-piece male band. The members first met at the Fuxing Vocational High School in Yilan (currently known as Lanyang Technical College). During a time when rock music was not widely accepted, they tirelessly pursued their passion for rock music together. They experienced a period where they had nothing but music.

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