River of Fire, River of Water: An Introduction to the Pure Land Tradition of Shin Buddhism

Unno, Taitetsu

ISBN 10: 0385485115 / ISBN 13: 9780385485111

Published by PRH Christian Publishing, 1998

About this Item

Fairly worn, but readable and intact. If applicable: Dust jacket, disc or access code may not be included.

Seller Inventory # 3IIK0I004LV6_ns

Bibliographic Details

• Title: River of Fire, River of Water: An Introduction to the Pure Land Tradition of Shin Buddhism
• Publisher: PRH Christian Publishing
• Publication Date: 1998
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0385485115
• ISBN 13: 9780385485111
• Binding: Soft cover
• Condition: acceptable

About this title

Synopsis

With great spiritual insight and unparalleled scholarship, Dr. Taitetsu Unno—the foremost authority in the United States on Shin or Pure Land Buddhism—introduces us to the most popular form of Buddhism in Japan. Unique among the various practices of Buddhism, this "new" form of spiritual practice is certain to enrich the growing practice of Buddhism in the United States, which is already quite familiar with Zen and Tibetan traditions. River of Fire, River of Water is an introduction to the practice of Pure Land Buddhism for readers with or without prior experience with it.

The Pure Land tradition dates back to the sixth century c.e., when Buddhism was first introduced in Japan. Unlike Zen, its counterpart which flourished in remote monasteries, the Pure Land tradition was the form of Buddhism practiced by common people. Consequently, its practice is harmonious with the workings of daily life, making it easily adaptable for seekers today. Despite the difference in method, though, the goal of Pure Land is the same as other schools—the awakening of the true self.

Certain to take its place alongside great works such as Three Pillars of Zen, The Miracle of Mindfulness, and Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind—River of Fire, River of Water is an important step forward for American Buddhism.

About the Author

Taitetsu Unno, Ph.D., lives in Northampton, Massachusetts, where he is Jill Ker Conway Professor of Religion at Smith College. He is active as a lecturer on Japanese Buddhism, religion, and culture.