The Lotus Sutra proclaims that a unitary intent underlies the diversity of Buddhist teachings and promises that all people without exception can achieve supreme awakening. Establishing the definitive guide to this profound text, specialists in Buddhist philosophy, art, and history of religion address the major ideas and controversies surrounding the Lotus Sutra and its manifestations in ritual performance, ascetic practice, visual representations, and social action across history. Essays survey the Indian context in which the sutra was produced, its compilation and translation history, and its influence across China and Japan, among many other issues. The volume also includes a Chinese and Japanese character glossary, notes on Western translations of the text, and a synoptic bibliography.
Just in the nick of time. More at SunSpace.
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IMO......and FWIW... anything by Prof Stone would be an interesting read....unfortunately for me, my "book budget" is blown for a couple months in the future...I would be very interested if anyone on this blog does read it and could post a "review"I would be particularly interested in what the authors say about the "600 pound Gorilla in the room" ...i.e. the historical fact that Shakyamuni never taught the Lotus Sutra per se....I don't mean to diminish the Lotus Sutra's greatness by that statement....As the saying goes "All true words are Buddha words"....just a reality check on a Sutra that bears so much importance to many Buddhists practice (me included)I remain,Franko the Fool
Amazon sells the paperback edition for under $30. with the shipping. I ordered mine today. I'll try and let you know what I think after I have some time to read it.Philip
Thanks Philip/ Mr Hidden,I go by your "garden gate/blog" every day on my morning route... but it's locked..enjoy your "vacation" and look forward to your return.I have been trying to get Hurvitz's "Chih-I (538-597). An Introduction to the Life and Ideas of a Chinese Buddhist Monk" for years now, and as much as I paid a "fin and a flipper" for it finally managed to snag a copy....blew the hell out of my monthly book budget...(smile)...so I do very much appreciate your offer to vet this new book.Franko the Fool