BASICS OF BUDDHISM #2: AN INTRODUCTION TO THE BUDDHISM OF EAST ASIA
This is the second in a five-part series of Dharma Discussions for spring semester exploring the geographical regions of Buddhism and their distinctive traditions, in response to requests from Yale Buddhist Sangha members for more information on the fundamentals of Buddhism. The first discussion focused on Southeast Asia and Theravada Buddhism; the third will focus on Tibet and Vajrayana Buddhism; the fourth, on contemporary America and its diverse Buddhist traditions; and the fifth session will be a final summation. It is not necessary to attend every Dharma Discussion.
Arising in India several centuries after the death of the historical Buddha, the movement known as Mahayana Buddhism – “The Great Vehicle” – has exerted a profound historical and cultural influence on the East Asian countries of China, Vietnam, Korea, and Japan. How did the Mahayana spread to those distant lands, and how did it adapt and transform itself in the process? What are some of the significant traits of Mahayana Buddhism, how did its unique beliefs and practices and scriptures challenge original Buddhist orthodoxy, and how do its own established orthodoxies flourish today? What do Mahayana Buddhist countries of China, Vietnam, Korea, and Japan share in common, and how do they differ?
Join us for a brisk introductory overview of topics ranging from bodhisattvas to Buddha realms, from Lotus Sutra to Yogacara, from Pure Land to Zen, from emptiness to Madhyamika, from Perfection of Wisdom to mantras, from meditation to the triad of Buddha bodies and more. If some of these characteristics of East Asian Buddhism are unfamiliar to you, so much the better. We’ll explore them together in a lively conversation facilitated by Reverend Kanji, and – most important – we’ll share how some of the principles and practices of East Asian Buddhism may (or may not) be relevant to our own spiritual lives.
Everyone is welcome – beginner and experienced practitioners of all Buddhist traditions, and non-Buddhists, too! There will be a brief meditation period (beginner instruction available).