How Did Greek Culture Influence Central Asia

One of the major cultural influences of Central Asia during the Buddhist Era would be Greece. Dr. Liu thoroughly discusses how aspects of Greek culture were quite prevalent in the beginning of period three. Thanks to the conquests of Alexander the Great, aspects of this culture had shown up throughout Central Asia. One of the most known parts of Greek culture is their production, and consumption of grapes and wine. In Central Asia, the consumption of wine, produced by a plant which they did not grow, was quite popular. For example, the Life of Xuanzang, describes his meeting with Yabgu, a Turkish chief. “... He asked them to be seated and order wine to be served… thus, all urged others to drink,” (The Life of Xuanzang). The consumption of wine in Central asia is also portrayed on many Buddhist stupas in the region. There was even a contract for the sale of a vineyard found in a Buddhist monastery. In addition to viniculture, other aspects of Greek culture made

One of the most obvious of these aspects was religion. Buddhism was a popular religion throughout Central Asia. For example, A Chinese Buddhist teacher on his arrival in Khotan states, “they follow all Buddhist laws and enjoy playing and listening to Buddhist music” (A Record of Buddhist Kingdoms). This shows the widespread practice of an originally Indian religion into Central Asia. Another example of Indian culture in Central Asia is a wooden document. This document from northern Afghanistan and Pakistan is written in Kharosthi script which was used to write Sanskrit and other Indian languages. Yet again showing Indian influence showing up in Central Asia. This Indian influence most likely came from the Kushan Empire. At one time, this empire ruled northern India. Since the Kushan Empire was mostly made up of Central Asian territories, when it fell, it still incorporated these Indian