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During the early Yuan Dynasty, a strong emphasis was placed on diplomatic relations, prompting the dispatch of envoys to various regions to seek tribute for the Ming Dynasty. Notably, the relationship between the Ming Dynasty and Tibet, referred to as "烏思藏" in Chinese, was particularly close. Emperor Taizu took decisive actions in the Tibetan region to eliminate the lingering influence of the Yuan Dynasty. This involved pacifying former Yuan officials, establishing military and administrative units, and setting up relay stations to solidify Ming control. Emperor Chengzu, in a shift of focus, began to prioritize religion. This change was manifested through the bestowal of honors and rewards to religious leaders, establishing connections with different regions of Tibet to strengthen Ming control. The first Buddhist leader actively invited by the Ming government was the Karmapa Lama, Ha Li Ma ( Deyin Xieba) brought to Nanjing by the eunuch Hou Xian. Ha Li Ma was enthroned as the Fifth Great Treasure Dharma King, marking the inception of the Ming Dynasty's practice of honoring religious leaders. The presence of the Great Treasure Dharma King in Ming territory for over a year had a direct impact on Emperor Chengzu and subsequent Ming policies towards Tibet. Many Ming emperors showed a keen interest in Tibetan Buddhism, leading to instances where ministers protested against perceived superstition. Gift exchanges and tribute missions between the Ming Dynasty and Tibet became frequent. From the Yuan Dynasty to the Ming Dynasty, the central Chinese dynasties' attitude towards Tibet evolved from exclusively honoring the Sakya sect to conferring multiple titles to various religious leaders. The extensive bestowal of titles upon Dharma Kings and religious rulers not only altered administrative governance but also influenced the distribution of sectarian power within Tibet. This study delves into the origins of these influences through the examination of Hou Xian's invitation of Ha Li Ma ( Deyin Xieba) to Nanjing, aiming to unravel the changing dynamics between the Ming Dynasty and Tibet. Keywords: Tibet, Sino-Tibetan relations, Yongle era, Ha Li Ma, Hou Xian, Qingzang Road.
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