Synopses & Reviews
This historical introduction to Buddhism presents readers with an engaging exploration of the diversity of thoughts and practices of a wide segment of followers of the Buddha. It covers five main aspects of Buddhism: ritual, devotionalism, doctrine, meditation, practice, and institutional history.
Synopsis
Intended as a core text for Introduction to Buddhism courses usually taken by religion majors, or as an elective. Offered in religion departments, sometimes part of philosophy departments at four-year schools.
This historical introduction to Buddhism portrays the thoughts and actions of the large segment of followers of the Buddha. Its presentation covers five main aspects of Buddhism: ritual, devotionalism, doctrine, meditation, practice, and institutional history.
Synopsis
This historical introduction to Buddhism presents readers with an engaging exploration of the diversity of thoughts and practices of a wide segment of followers of the Buddha. It covers five main aspects of Buddhism: ritual, devotionalism, doctrine, meditation, practice, and institutional history.
Description
Includes bibliographical references(p. 326-335) and index.
About the Author
Willard L. Johnson received his Ph.D. in Religious Studies from the University of Wisconsin in 1973. He is now a professor emeritus of San Diego State University, where he teaches world religions, primal religions, shamanism, Asian religions, and religious experience.
Table of Contents
Foreword. Preface. Map: The World of Buddhism. Abbreviations. Introduction. Buddhism in India. 1. The Buddha's Awakening. 2. The Buddha as Teacher and Power Figure. 3. The Development of Early Indian Buddhism. 4. The Period of the Three Vehicles. 5. Early Medieval Indian Buddhism. 6. Late Medieval Indian Buddhism. 7. Buddhism in Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia. 8. Buddhism in Central Asia and China. 9. Buddhism in Korea and Vietnam. 10. Buddhism in Japan. 11. Buddhism in the Tibetan Cultural Area. 12. Buddhism Comes West. An Overview of the Buddhist Scriptures. Pronunciation Guide. Glossary. Select Bibliography. Index.