Amoghavarsha vs Li Chen

Amoghavarsha converted from Hinduism to Jainism under the influence of the Jain acharya Jinasena. He became a devout patron of Jainism, building temples and supporting Jain monasteries. This shaped his policies of religious tolerance.

Amoghavarsha, with assistance from the scholar Srivijaya, composed the Kavirajamarga, the earliest extant work on Kannada poetics. This text standardized Kannada literary conventions and promoted the language as a medium for high culture.

Amoghavarsha commissioned the construction of Jain temples (basadi) at Shravanabelagola, a major Jain pilgrimage site. He also erected a statue of the Jain tirthankara Mahavira. This solidified his legacy as a Jain patron.

Amoghavarsha abdicated the throne in favor of his son Krishna II. He then adopted the life of a Jain ascetic, practicing sallekhana (fasting unto death) at Shravanabelagola. This act reflected his deep religious devotion.

Li Chen ascended the throne after the death of his nephew, Li Yan. He immediately reversed the anti-Buddhist policies and began a series of reforms to restore central authority. He appointed capable chancellors and reduced the power of eunuchs.

Li Chen reformed the state salt monopoly to increase revenue and reduce corruption. He lowered salt prices to curb smuggling and improved the efficiency of the monopoly system, which became a major source of Tang fiscal stability.

Li Chen's forces launched a campaign to recapture the Hexi Corridor from the Tibetan Empire. Tang armies achieved several victories, regaining control of key cities and restoring Chinese authority over the Silk Road route.

Li Chen died in 859 after a reign that briefly revived Tang fortunes. He was posthumously called the 'Little Taizong' for his capable rule. His death marked the end of the last period of Tang stability before the dynasty's final decline.