Troughout its history, Buddhism has developed a sophisticated philosophy of materiality, addressing the status of material objects and their role in the quest for salvation. This is an innovative book that addresses the ways in which Buddhism has conceived of, and dealt with, material objects ranging from the environment to everyday tools, ritual implements, icons, and sacred texts. Contrary to received assumptions, careful reading of original sources and study of ritual practices show that in Buddhism the realm of materiality is not simply an obstacle for spiritual pursuits but also a space for interplay in which human beings can give shape and expression to their deepest religious and spiritual ideas.
目次
Introduction 1 The Buddhist philosophy of objects: the status of inanimate entities 11 The Buddhist system of objects 58 Materiality and performativity of sacred texts 88 The cultural imagination of trees and the environment 129 Tools and labor as mediators between the sacred and the profane 172 Objects, rituals, tradition: memorial services (kuyo) for inanimate objects 211 Buddhist sacred commodities and the general economy Notes 275 Bibliography 325 Index 373
