Synopses & Reviews
This classic scripture of Mahayana Buddhism and Zen emphasizes spiritual practice in the midst of secular life. Composed in about the second century CE, The Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra tells the story of a householder named Vimalakirti who lived a worldly life while following the Bodhisattva path. This sutra is particularly applicable to Western students of Buddhism because it teaches that people in the secular life can practice Buddhism as effectively as members of monastic communities. The translator provides an accurate and accessible text complete with explanatory notes and a glossary.
Synopsis
Composed in about the second century, this treasured Buddhist text tells the story of Vimalakirti, a layman who lives an ordinary, worldly life while following the path of a bodhisattva -- one who forgoes his or her own enlightenment to help others. The text offers guidance and inspiration for all those on the Buddhist path who strive for spiritual awakening outside the context of the monastery, in the secular world of work, family, and daily living. This highly readable translation was originally published by Shambhala in 1972 and again in 1990 under the title The Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra.
About the Author
Charles Luk was a lifelong student of Buddhism who translated several works of Chinese Buddhism.