This contemporary translation of a significant Buddhist text is enhanced by over 110 full-page illustrations from an acclaimed artist, making it a visually engaging experience. The combination of the accessible translation and striking artwork brings the teachings to life, appealing to both longtime followers and newcomers to Buddhism.
Set in a vast cosmic landscape, this influential scripture emphasizes compassion and the importance of serving others. It challenges the stark distinctions between the fully enlightened buddha and the bodhisattva, who delays personal salvation to help all beings. Central to its teachings is the belief in the inherent potential of every individual to attain buddhahood. As a key text in the evolution of Mahayana Buddhism, it has significantly shaped religious thought and practice across East Asia and beyond.
The Lotus Sutra is regarded as one of the world's great religious scriptures and most influential texts. It's a seminal work in the development of Buddhism throughout East Asia and, by extension, in the development of Mahayana Buddhism throughout the world. Taking place in a vast and fantastical cosmic setting, the Lotus Sutra places emphasis on skillfully doing whatever is needed to serve and compassionately care for others, on breaking down distinctions between the fully enlightened buddha and the bodhisattva who vows to postpone salvation until all beings may share it, and especially on each and every being's innate capacity to become a buddha.Gene Reeves's new translation appeals to readers with little or no familiarity with technical Buddhist vocabulary, as well as long-time practitioners and students. In addition, this remarkable volume includes the full "threefold" text of this classic.