Politics: Factors of Decline and Prosperity of Buddhism in Vietnam

Abstract

Politics is of power and governance in any situation or institutions if there are competing
for achieving power over the other, it is considered politics. All politics is, therefore, a part of
human life, and is a good thing, it is both the science and the art of governing which can be
learned just like any other arts and sciences existing in the world
Also, politics is also a factor that can affect the rise and fall of Buddhism. In Vietnam,
holding Buddhism as its religion, the prosperity and the decline of Buddhism historically
depended on these factors; namely, the ruler who governs the country, the national policy to
support Buddhism activities, unity of its people in maintaining Buddhism, and the application of
Dhamma into their living, including for its leader. 
Additionally, Buddhism still provides the important principles for rulers as he can use the
power in government, in legislation as well as policy to administrate the country for every
physical and mental development. The main principles for rulers are as the followings, the
Brahma Vihara 4( the four sublime states of mind), the four Aggati 4 ( the four wrong courses of
behavior ), Saghaha 4 (the four principles of services), Chakkavattivat 10 (duties of a universal king
or a great ruler )