River of Fire, River of Water: An Introduction to the Pure Land Tradition of Shin Buddhism

(Paperback)

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With great spiritual insight and unparalleled scholarship, Dr. Taitetsu Unnothe foremost authority in the United States on Shin or Pure Land Buddhismintroduces us to the most popular form of Buddhism in Japan. Unique among the various practices of Buddhism, this "new" form of spiritual practice is certain to enrich the growing practice of Buddhism in the United States, which is already quite familiar with Zen and Tibetan traditions. River of Fire, River of Water is an introduction to the practice of Pure Land Buddhism for readers with or without prior experience with it.

The Pure Land tradition dates back to the sixth century c.e., when Buddhism was first introduced in Japan. Unlike Zen, its counterpart which flourished in remote monasteries, the Pure Land tradition was the form of Buddhism practiced by common people. Consequently, its practice is harmonious with the workings of daily life, making it easily adaptable for seekers today. Despite the difference in method, though, the goal of Pure Land is the same as other schoolsthe awakening of the true self.

Certain to take its place alongside great works such as Three Pillars of Zen, The Miracle of Mindfulness, and Zen Mind, Beginner's MindRiver of Fire, River of Water is an important step forward for American Buddhism.

Author Bio

Taitetsu Unno, Ph.D., lives in Northampton, Massachusetts, where he is Jill Ker Conway Professor of Religion at Smith College. He is active as a lecturer on Japanese Buddhism, religion, and culture.