How did a society on the edge of collapse and dominated by wandering bands of armed men give way to a vibrant Buddhist culture; led by yogins and scholars? Ronald M. Davidson explores how the translation and spread of esoteric Buddhist texts dramatically shaped Tibetan society and led to its rise as the center of Buddhist culture throughout Asia; replacing India as the perceived source of religious ideology and tradition. During the Tibetan Renaissance (950-1200 C.E.); monks and yogins translated an enormous number of Indian Buddhist texts. They employed the evolving literature and practices of esoteric Buddhism as the basis to reconstruct Tibetan religious; cultural; and political institutions. Many translators achieved the de facto status of feudal lords and while not always loyal to their Buddhist vows; these figures helped solidify political power in the hands of religious authorities and began a process that led to the Dalai Lama's theocracy. Davidson's vivid portraits of the monks; priests; popular preachers; yogins; and aristocratic clans who changed Tibetan society and culture further enhance his perspectives on the tensions and transformations that characterized medieval Tibet.
#763312 in Books 1998-09-15 1998-10-06Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.25 x 1.03 x 6.13l; 1.72 #File Name: 0231114478448 pages
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. A Book that captures the Essence of India's Most Holy CityBy Venkataraman NilakantDiana Eck provides a richly-textured; nuanced; sensitive account of a city that the Hindus consider most holy. The book is based on observations; interviews and analysis of textual documents to argue that the essence of Banaras remains unchanged despite numerous attempts to redefine it by various invaders. For those Indians unfortunate enough not to be able to spend considerable time in Kashi; this book is a welcome alternative. I found the detailed historical accounts of Hindu temples in Banaras fascinating. Having spent nearly two hours at the Kashi Viswanath Temple attending the Shringar and Shayana arthi; I can say without hesitation that Diana Eck has captured the culture; spirit; ambiance and simmering spirituality of the city and its temples amazingly well. This book is a must-read for all those interested in spirituality and culture of Hindu India.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. The Best Book on Banaras Bar-NoneBy William M. Drake Jr.Diana Eck is not only a brilliant scholar who writes with clarity and conciseness; but also an inspiring teacher who conveys her passion for Banaras in this wonderful book. I spent a month in the city; visiting sites and absorbing the culture presented in this indispensable volume and plan to spend another month soon following up on the never-ending richness of the Holy City. This is the one book I can recommend without reservation to anyone seeking an in-depth understanding of Hindu Gods and Siva's City of Light.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. rich and fun; after being back from India and five days ...By Daniel A. TerragnoLovely; rich and fun; after being back from India and five days in Varanasi I am already planning a second stay this time at least a full week in this City of Light. Brilliant book!
