Chinese Buddhism: A Thematic History

Description

What are the foundational scriptures and major schools for Chinese Buddhists? What divinities do they worship? What festivals do they celebrate? These are some of the basic questions addressed in this book, the first introduction to Chinese Buddhism written expressly for students and those interested in an accessible yet authoritative overview of the subject based on current scholarship. After presenting the basic tenets of the Buddha’s teachings and the Chinese religious traditions, the book focuses on topics essential for understanding Chinese Buddhism: major scriptures, worship of buddhas and bodhisattvas, rituals and festivals, the monastic order, Buddhist schools such as Tiantai and Chan, Buddhism and gender, and current trends—notably humanistic Buddhism in Taiwan and the resurgence of Buddhism in post-Mao China. Each chapter ends with discussion questions and suggestions for further reading. A convenient glossary of common terms, titles, and names is included. Chün-fang Yü is Sheng Yen Professor Emerita of Chinese Buddhism at Columbia University. She is the author of numerous books and articles, including The Renewal of Buddhism in China: Chu-hung and the Late Ming Synthesis, Kuan-yin: The Chinese Transformation of Avalokiteśvara, and Passing the Light: The Incense Light Community and Buddhist Nuns in Contemporary Taiwan.Chün-fang Yü is Sheng Yen Professor Emerita of Chinese Buddhism at Columbia University. She is the author of numerous books and articles, including The Renewal of Buddhism in China: Chu-hung and the Late Ming Synthesis, Kuan-yin: The Chinese Transformation of Avalokiteśvara, and Passing the Light: The Incense Light Community and Buddhist Nuns in Contemporary Taiwan. Frontmatter Contents Preface A Note on the Transcription of Sanskrit Terms and Names Introduction 1. Major Buddhist Sutras and Treatises of Chinese Buddhism 2. Cults of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas 3. Buddhist Festivals and Rituals 4. The Monastic Order 5. The Doctrinal Traditions: Tiantai and Huayan 6. The Meditation Tradition: Chan Buddhism 7. The Devotional Tradition: Pure Land Buddhism 8. Buddhism and Gender 9. Buddhism in Modern China Glossary Index ABOUT THE AUTHOR