This article explores the magical power of writing in the context of early Buddhist textual amulets. In various Buddhist traditions, protective texts, known as rakṣā texts, were inscribed on amulets to safeguard the wearer from illness, danger, and misfortune. These apotropaic manuscripts were written on materials such as birch bark, cloth, or paper, then rolled or folded and enclosed in containers to be carried. Particularly in early Buddhism, they played a crucial role in the daily lives of monks, laypeople, and travellers. Research indicates that these amulets were not only preserved but actively used. Epigraphic and archaeological findings from Central Asia, India, and China provide evidence of their widespread application and ritual use. The article further examines the interplay between text, form, and function, as well as the production and ritual practice surrounding these protective scriptures.
目次
ABSTRACT 71 Introduction 71 1. The literary basis – rakṣā texts 74 2. Efficacy and ritual instructions 76 3. Textual amulets 78 3.1 Amulet manuscripts 80 3.1.1 List of amulet manuscripts 86 3.1.2 The Vimaloṣṇīṣadhāraṇī in the Gilgit manuscripts 92 3.2 Stamps and seals 95 4. Conclusion 97 Abbreviations 98 Bibliography 98
