Who is the author of 'The Holy Teaching of Vimalakīrti'?

The author of 'The Holy Teaching of Vimalakīrti' is Robert A. F. Thurman.

What are the main themes in 'The Holy Teaching of Vimalakīrti'?

The main themes in 'The Holy Teaching of Vimalakīrti' include Eastern Religions, Spirituality and Religion.

What genre is 'The Holy Teaching of Vimalakīrti'?

'The Holy Teaching of Vimalakīrti' is categorized as Spirituality and Religion.

What is the main theme of 'The Holy Teaching of Vimalakīrti'?

The main theme of 'The Holy Teaching of Vimalakīrti' revolves around the principles of Mahayana Buddhism, particularly the concept of the bodhisattva ideal, non-duality, and the relationship between the ordinary and the enlightened state. It explores the nature of reality, the importance of compassion and wisdom, and how to engage with the world while maintaining a spiritual practice. Through the character of Vimalakīrti, the text emphasizes the idea that true wisdom transcends conventional thinking and that enlightenment can be found in everyday life.

Who is the author of the book, and what is his background?

The author of 'The Holy Teaching of Vimalakīrti' is Robert A. F. Thurman. He is a prominent American Buddhist scholar, author, and translator. Thurman is known for his expertise in Tibetan Buddhism and has been influential in bringing Buddhist teachings to the Western world. He was the first American to be ordained as a Tibetan Buddhist monk and has written extensively on Buddhist philosophy and practice.

Can you summarize the story of Vimalakīrti and its significance in the text?

In 'The Holy Teaching of Vimalakīrti', Vimalakīrti is a wealthy and learned lay Buddhist teacher living in a city, who is known for his profound understanding of the Dharma and his ability to engage in discussions with the most learned monks and nuns. The story begins when the Buddha asks his followers to visit Vimalakīrti, who is ill, to inquire about his health. However, Vimalakīrti, through a series of clever arguments and teachings, demonstrates the non-duality of existence, the nature of emptiness, and the importance of compassion. Throughout the text, Vimalakīrti engages in debates with various disciples, including those of great renown like Manjushri, and teaches them that true understanding transcends conventional wisdom and verbal teachings. He showcases the qualities of a Bodhisattva, emphasizing the significance of compassion and skillful means. The significance of Vimalakīrti's character and teachings lies in their challenge to the traditional hierarchy of wisdom, showing that lay practitioners can possess profound insights equivalent to, or surpassing, those of monastic practitioners. His teachings encourage readers to see beyond superficial distinctions and to engage with the complexities of life and enlightenment.

What are some key teachings or lessons presented in 'The Holy Teaching of Vimalakīrti'?

'The Holy Teaching of Vimalakīrti' presents several key teachings and lessons, including: Non-Duality: The text emphasizes the notion of non-duality, suggesting that the distinction between ordinary and enlightened beings is an illusion. Skillful Means (Upaya): Vimalakīrti often employs skillful means to communicate profound truths, highlighting the importance of adapting one's teachings to suit the audience's needs and understanding. The Nature of Reality: It explores the concept that reality is empty and interconnected, and encourages readers to look beyond conventional perceptions. Compassion and Bodhicitta: The narrative underscores the importance of cultivating compassion for all beings and developing the mind of enlightenment (bodhicitta). Intellectual Humility: Vimalakīrti, despite his wisdom, often humbles learned monks, showing that true understanding transcends intellectual knowledge. Role of Illness and Sickness: The character of Vimalakīrti, who is depicted as being ill, illustrates how sickness can serve as a teaching tool for deeper understanding and compassion. Engagement with the World: The text advocates for active engagement in the world rather than renouncing it, encouraging practitioners to participate in society while remaining aware of their spiritual commitments.

How does the book relate to Buddhist philosophy or practices?

'The Holy Teaching of Vimalakīrti' is a significant text in Mahayana Buddhism that presents key philosophical themes and practices central to Buddhist thought. The book, attributed to the sage Vimalakīrti, emphasizes the concept of non-duality, the importance of wisdom (prajna), and the role of compassion (karuna) in achieving enlightenment. Through dialogues and stories, it illustrates the idea that true understanding transcends conventional distinctions between sacred and mundane, and between different forms of spiritual practice. The text challenges traditional notions of monasticism by portraying a layman, Vimalakīrti, as a profound teacher, which reinforces the idea that enlightenment can be realized outside of monastic confines. It also highlights the value of engaging with the world, advocating for active compassion and social engagement. Additionally, the work delves into concepts like emptiness (śūnyatā) and the interdependence of all phenomena, which are central to Buddhist philosophy. Thus, it serves as both a philosophical treatise and a practical guide for integrating Buddhist principles into daily life.

The Holy Teaching of Vimalakīrti

By Robert A. F. Thurman

Published: 1976

Spirituality and Religion Eastern Religions

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Key Points from The Holy Teaching of Vimalakīrti

Thurman's 'The Holy Teaching of Vimalakīrti' highlights how the text serves as both a vital part of Buddhist scripture and a philosophical discourse, central to Mahayana Buddhism. In this exploration, the character of Vimalakīrti stands as a pivotal figure representing non-duality; he frequently embodies the Buddhist notion that distinctions between self and other are illusory. For example, in the text, Vimalakīrti's illness serves as a catalyst for profound dialogues among bodhisattvas that reveal the interdependence of all beings. The significance of this theme cannot be overstated, as it challenges rigid dualistic thinking and encourages a more holistic understanding of existence, emphasizing that enlightenment is accessible to everyone, not just ascetic practitioners. Furthermore, Vimalakīrti's interactions with various figures throughout the narrative showcase the practice of compassion as fundamental to realizing this interconnectedness. This perspective directly ties into broader themes in Mahayana Buddhism, such as the enlightened mind and the concept of 'emptiness' (śūnyatā), where nothing exists in isolation. Thus, Thurman effectively illustrates how Vimalakīrti's insights challenge conventional wisdom, urging practitioners to embrace a more expansive view of reality that reflects the intricate web of existence.

About the Author

Robert A. F. Thurman

Robert A. F. Thurman is an esteemed American scholar, author, and leading figure in the study of Tibetan Buddhism. He is the co-founder of the Tibet House US and has been instrumental in bringing the insights of Tibetan culture and spiritual practice to the West. Thurman is renowned for his engaging and accessible writing style, which combines scholarly rigor with a passion for spirituality. His notable works include "Inner Revolution: Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Real Happiness," "The Tibetan Book of the Dead: A New Translation and Commentary," and "The Essence of the Heart Sutra: The Dalai Lama's Heart of Wisdom Teachings." Through his writings, Thurman offers profound insights into the intersection of Buddhism, philosophy, and contemporary life.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors: Robert A. F. Thurman
Published: January 1976
Publisher: Penn State University Press
ISBN: N/A
Language: English
Pages: 184
Genres: Eastern ReligionsSpirituality and Religion

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Key Points from The Holy Teaching of Vimalakīrti

Thurman's 'The Holy Teaching of Vimalakīrti' highlights how the text serves as both a vital part of Buddhist scripture and a philosophical discourse, central to Mahayana Buddhism. In this exploration, the character of Vimalakīrti stands as a pivotal figure representing non-duality; he frequently embodies the Buddhist notion that distinctions between self and other are illusory. For example, in the text, Vimalakīrti's illness serves as a catalyst for profound dialogues among bodhisattvas that reveal the interdependence of all beings. The significance of this theme cannot be overstated, as it challenges rigid dualistic thinking and encourages a more holistic understanding of existence, emphasizing that enlightenment is accessible to everyone, not just ascetic practitioners. Furthermore, Vimalakīrti's interactions with various figures throughout the narrative showcase the practice of compassion as fundamental to realizing this interconnectedness. This perspective directly ties into broader themes in Mahayana Buddhism, such as the enlightened mind and the concept of 'emptiness' (śūnyatā), where nothing exists in isolation. Thus, Thurman effectively illustrates how Vimalakīrti's insights challenge conventional wisdom, urging practitioners to embrace a more expansive view of reality that reflects the intricate web of existence.

The Holy Teaching of Vimalakīrti

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What Readers Say About This Book

The Mike & Casey Show

Key Points from The Holy Teaching of Vimalakīrti

About the Author

Robert A. F. Thurman

Book Details

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