Bibliographic Information

Buddhist cosmology : philosophy and origins

by Akira Sadakata ; translated by Gaynor Sekimori ; with a foreword by Hajime Nakamura

Kōsei Pubishing, 1997

1st English ed

Other Title

須弥山と極楽 : 仏教の宇宙観

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Note

Originally published in Japanese: Shumisen to Gokuraku. Tokyo : Kodansha, 1973

Includes bibliographical references and index

Description and Table of Contents

Description

This extensively researched and illustrated volume offers Western readers a rare introduction to Buddhism's complex and fascinating views about the structure of the universe. The book begins by clearly explaining classical cosmology, with its symmetrical, India-centered universe and multitudinous heavens and hells, and illuminates the cosmos's relation to the human concerns of karma, transmigration, and enlightenment. It moves on to discuss the Mahayana conception of the universe as a lotus flower containing uncountable realms, each with its own buddha. Then, examining changes in the notions of hell and the gods, the author traces Buddhism's gradual shift from a religion to a mythology. Throughout, treatment of Buddhism's historical, geographical, and doctrinal origins complements detailed cosmological descriptions. Finally, the author shows us how this ancient philosophy resembles the modern scientific view of the cosmos, and how even today it can help us lead more fulfilling lives.

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Details

  • NCID
    BA36462894
  • ISBN
    • 4333016827
  • Country Code
    ja
  • Title Language Code
    eng
  • Text Language Code
    eng
  • Original Language Code
    jpn
  • Place of Publication
    Tokyo
  • Pages/Volumes
    223 p.
  • Size
    21 cm
  • Classification
  • Subject Headings
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