Buddhism: A Concise History (Full-Color Collector's Edition with Illustrations)

Author: Wu Dexin
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-05-01
Features:
"The Buddha" refers to the sage of the Shakyas who sought the true meaning of life in the universe and attained enlightenment: Siddhartha Gautama. In ancient Sanskrit, it is abbreviated as "Buddha," meaning "the awakened one" or "the wise person." Any ordinary person with Buddha-nature and a perpetually burning spiritual candle can become a Buddha. Since its introduction to China, Buddhism has had a profound impact on numerous disciplines, including philosophy, ethics, folk studies, literature, music, architecture, painting, and medicine. As a culture, a religion, and a philosophy, it has exerted a tremendous influence on shaping the soul and character of the Han people. Its penetration and infusion into China's politics, economy, thought, and social customs are immeasurable. Many of the terms we use in daily life originate from Buddhism. For example, words like "world," "absolute," "relative," "instant," "actual," "conventional," "equality," and "as-it-is" are all Buddhist terminology. Given the profound and mystical nature of Buddhist teachings, which are vast and intricate, this book presents the history and culture of Buddhism in a clear and accessible manner through a (image-text interweaving) layout. The book includes over 300 illustrations of the Buddha, Arhats, Guanyin, Venerables, and Laypeople, each of which holds great artistic and collectible value, creating a harmonious interplay between beautiful images and excellent text. With over 50 classic Buddhist quotes and interpretations of Buddhist terms, along with vivid illustrations and engaging narratives, readers can experience the mystical essence of Buddhism more intuitively and gain richer insights into the vast wisdom of the Buddha.