Kristin Johnston Largen Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg
摘要
A word of introduction to begin this article. I come to Shin Buddhism with a background in comparative theology, a discipline which, from the Christian perspective (my tradition) can be defined as follows: “…the branch of systematic theology which seeks to interpret the Christian tradition conscientiously in conversation with the texts and symbols of non-Christian religions.”1 So, as is evident in that definition, several things are critical for comparative theology to bear fruit: first, of course, is a deep understanding and commitment to one’s own tradition; second, and equally important, is a deep understanding and respect of another religious tradition; and third, the willingness to resist easy comparisons, reject any attempt at conversion, and evince a genuine openness to learning and transformation. Thus, my goal, as a Christian, is to engage in a substantive and meaningful way with the Shin Buddhist tradition, with the following goals: first, learning about the beliefs and practices of Shin Buddhism, and then second, asking critical questions of my own faith in light of that learning, which, ideally, leads to new insights and understanding of my own tradition.
目次
INTRODUCTION CHRISTIAN/BUDDHIST “DOUBLE-BELONGING” WHO IS AMIDA BUDDHA? GRACE, FAITH, & “OTHER POWER” FAITH & WORKS SHINJIN “SIN” AND THE HUMAN CONDITION CONCLUSION notes
