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The Vimalakirti Sutra

Name: The Vimalakirti Sutra
Price: 30.00 USD
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Rating: 4.6 (53 reviews)

4.6 of 5 Stars: Other Eastern Religions & Sacred Texts - The Vimalakirti Sutra

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Book Synopsis: One of the most popular Asian classics for roughly two thousand years, the Vimalakirti Sutra stands out among the sacred texts of Mahayana Buddhism for its conciseness, its vivid and humorous episodes, its dramatic narratives, and its eloquent exposition of the key doctrine of emptiness or nondualism. Unlike most sutras, its central figure is not a Buddha but a wealthy townsman, who, in his mastery of doctrine and religious practice, epitomizes the ideal lay believer. For this reason, the sutra has held particular significance for men and women of the laity in Buddhist countries of Asia, assuring them that they can reach levels of spiritual attainment fully comparable to those accessible to monks and nuns of the monastic order. Esteemed translator Burton Watson has rendered a beautiful English translation from the popular Chinese version produced in 406 C.E. by the Central Asian scholar-monk Kumarajiva, which is widely acknowledged to be the most felicitous of the various Chinese translations of the sutra (the Sanskrit original of which was lost long ago) and is the form in which it has had the greatest influence in China, Japan, and other countries of East Asia. Watson's illuminating introduction discusses the background of the sutra, its place in the development of Buddhist thought, and the profundities of its principal doctrine: emptiness.

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Immerse yourself in the profound teachings of Mahayana Buddhism with the timeless classic, the Vimalakirti Sutra. Known for its vivid narratives and eloquent exposition of emptiness, this sacred text has captivated readers for thousands of years. Experience the wisdom of the wealthy layman Vimalakirti and explore the path to spiritual enlightenment beyond traditional boundaries.

Step into the world of the Vimalakirti Sutra and witness the compelling dialogues and dramatic encounters that unfold within its pages. As you delve into the teachings of non-duality and the ideal lay believer, you will be inspired to deepen your own spiritual practice and discover the boundless potential within yourself. Let the words of this revered text guide you on your journey towards inner peace and self-realization.

Embark on a transformative literary journey with Burton Watson's masterful English translation of the Vimalakirti Sutra. Transcend cultural and linguistic barriers as you absorb the profound insights of this ancient text, brought to life in a language accessible to modern readers. Gain a deeper understanding of Buddhist philosophy and the concept of emptiness through Watson's evocative interpretation of Kumarajiva's Chinese version.

Are you ready to explore the depths of Buddhist thought and unlock the mysteries of emptiness? Discover the timeless wisdom of the Vimalakirti Sutra today and embark on a journey of spiritual awakening and self-discovery.

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