The area of Buddhist monasticism has long attracted the interest of Buddhist studies scholars and historians, but the interpretation of the nature and function of monasteries across diverse cultures and vast historical periods remains a focus for debate. This book provides a multifaceted discussion of religious, social, cultural, artistic, and political functions of Buddhist monasteries in medieval China and Japan.

With contributions from leading scholars in the field, this volume explores the multiplicity of the institutions that make up "the Buddhist monastery." Drawing on new research and on previous studies hitherto not widely available in English, the chapters cover key issues such as the relationship between monastics and lay society, the meaning of monastic vows, how specific institutions functioned, and the differences between urban and regional monasteries. Collectively, the book demonstrates that medieval monasteries in East Asia were much more than merely residences for monks who, cut off from the dust and din of society and all its entrapments, collectively pursued an ideal cenobitic lifestyle.

Buddhist Monasticism in East Asia is a timely contribution to the ongoing attempts to understand a central facet of Buddhist religious practice, and will be a significant work for academics and students in the fields of Buddhist Studies, Asian Studies, and East Asian Religions.

About the Author

James A. Benn is Associate Professor of Buddhism and East Asian Religions at McMaster University. His main area of research is Buddhism and Taoism in Medieval China.

Lori Meeks is Assistant Professor of Religion and East Asian Languages and Cultures at the University of Southern California. She has published extensively on the roles of women as consumers and practitioners of Buddhism in Japan during the Heian and Kamakura periods.

James Robson is Associate Professor of Chinese Buddhism at Harvard University. He studies Buddhism and Taoism in medieval China.

"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.

Store Description

SuperBookDeals.com is your top source for finding new books at the absolute lowest prices, guaranteed ! We offer big discounts - everyday - on millions of titles in virtually any category, from Architecture to Zoology -- and everything in between. Discover great deals and super-savings, on professional books, text book titles, the newest computer guides, or your favorite fiction authors. You'll find it all - at HUGE SAVINGS - at SuperBookDeals. Browse through our complete online product catalog today. Serving customers around the world for years, we help thousands find just the books they're looking for -- at incredibly low, bargain prices.

Visit Seller's Storefront

Seller's business information

Expert Trading Limited
9220 Rumsey Road, Suite 101, Columbia, MD, 21045, U.S.A.

Sale & Shipping Terms

Terms of Sale

Company Name: GreatBookPrices
Legal Entity: Expert Trading, LLC
Address: 9220 Rumsey Road, Ste 101, Columbia MD 21046
Email address: CustomerService@SuperBookDeals.com
Phone number: 410-964-0026
consumer complaints can be addressed to address above
Registration #: 52-1713923
Authorized representative: Danielle Hainsey

Shipping Terms

Internal processing of your order will take about 1-2 business days. Please allow an additional 4-14 business days for Media Mail delivery. We have multiple ship-from locations - MD,IL,NJ,UK,IN,NV,TN & GA

Shipping rates within U.S.A.

Shipping rates within U.S.A.
Order quantity	8 to 14 business days	5 to 14 business days
First item	US$ 2.64	US$ 2.64

Delivery times are set by sellers and vary by carrier and location. Orders passing through Customs may face delays and buyers are responsible for any associated duties or fees. Sellers may contact you regarding additional charges to cover any increased costs to ship your items.