Includes over five thousand entries: terms, person's names, ceremonies, texts and teachings, with Sanskrit equivalents.
Most of the terms have been drawn directly from such classics as Shasekishu, Kokon Chomonju, Hojoki, Makura no soshi, Tsurezure-gusa, Heike Monogatari, and Taiheki. These works, chiefly from the Heian and Kamakura periods, are rich in Buddhist reference and include nearly all common basic Buddhist terms found in Japanese literature. References to literary sources are given, as are references to Taisho Tripitaka volume and scripture numbers or Buddhist texts, if available.
Major Buddhist sects, their founders, and other important names are explained. Sanskrit equivalents are supplied wherever possible in order to identify the terms and concepts of Japanese Buddhism with those in other Buddhist traditions. A number of terms of doctrinal importance are also explained, together with related concepts and cross-reference. Although primarily intended as a practical guide for students of Japanese Buddhism, this volume will also be useful to Chinese Buddhist students for its many references, and clarifications of the doctrinal implications of some technical terms. Though terms related to Zen, Jodo, Tendai, and Shingon are predominant, this book's unbiased treatment of its subject matter will give readers the opportunity to increase their knowledge in their particular and related fields of study.
