Traditionally, Confucianism practitioners regard females’ political involvements as threats to the prosperity of society. Through generations, women’s participation in politics is considered dangerous and notorious. Surrounded by the atmosphere, Zetian, Wu, as a woman, can become the empress surely faced much more challenging difficulties and endured more hardship than men. Buddhism reached its highest peak during the Tang Dynasty. Meanwhile, Confucianism, Daoism, and Buddhism strove for their own political benefits. The Emperors needed to take the advantage of Buddhism to cultivate people’s minds and to settle down domestic disputes. The fusion of politics and Buddhism was consequently merged. After the division of Southern and Northern Dynasties, people relied much more on religions to get the peace of minds. Buddhism influenced people deeply regarding to their everyday life. At the same time, the society held a more tolerant point of view to females’ rising social status. Zetian, Wu knew how to seize the chance to make the best of Buddhism prophecy. Also, based on Gods’, Buddha’s and people’s opinions, she became the first and only Empress in Chinese history. This thesis aimed to analyze the social status and environment which Tang Dynasty women encountered. Secondly, the researcher investigated Zetian, Wu’s Empress legend association with the connection to Buddha. From her political career and strategies, the researcher also discussed the reason why Wu chose to adopt Buddhism as a mind controller rather than Confucianism or Daoism to lay the foundation of Wu-Chou Dynasty. Furthermore, she combined her reincarnation with Maitreya and Buddhist Scripture to fulfill her political ambition and also prosper Buddhism.
