In (perhaps) secret defiance of the rigid prescriptive codes of the Buddhist monastic order cropped up a new, esoteric cultic phenomenon. Which, later known as Buddhist tantra, not just compromised Shakyamuni s ethical legacy, but came to be administered by a whole host of mudras, mandalas, kriyas, caryas and mysteriously ritualistic elements, even hedonistic practices. Dr. Mishra s book attempts afresh to investigate when, why and how emerged this secrecy-ridden cult: now a spiritual tradition in its own right. The author, who has had long, personal interactions with some of the living tantriks, here enters the dark alleys of Buddhist tantra to look for its nucleus, its evolution, its culmination, and the causes of its disintegration. Focusing, further, on the shifting philosophical tenets of Buddhism: from Hinayana to Mahayana, Vajrayana, Kalacakrayana and, finally, Sahajayana, Dr. Mishra spells out quintessentially the world-view of Buddhist Tantra and its path to nirvana or sukhavati: the abode of bliss, together with a wide range of tà ntric concepts that remain guhya (secret) to the uninitiated. Also showing how Buddhist art, almost from the beginning, has been compellingly influenced by tantric practices, the book exemplifies the manifestations of this influence in the iconographic representations of the Buddhist deities, illustrated manuscripts, thangkas, and even in the use of colours by the Buddhist artists
ISBN:8124601410
Author:T.N. Mishra
Publisher:D.K. Printworld (P) Ltd.
Publish Year:2000
Edition:First Edition
Cover:Hard Back
Subject:Buddhism | Tantra | Arts
Language:English
Remarks:Colour and B&W Photographs, Glossary, Bibliography and Index.
Pages:132
Size:186 x 245 mm
Religious Books
Religious books found in Nepal encompass a wide range of literature related to different religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, and more. These books are essential for spiritual guidance, education, and practice, and are considered sacred by many Nepalese people.
Hinduism is the predominant religion in Nepal, and as such, many religious books are related to it. The most popular ones are the Vedas, Puranas, Upanishads, Ramayana, and Mahabharata. These books contain information on Hindu deities, their stories, philosophies, and practices. The Bhagavad Gita, a sacred text, is also widely read and revered in Nepal, and is considered the essence of Hindu philosophy.
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Buddhism is another significant religion in Nepal, and many books related to it can be found in the country. The most popular ones include the Tripitaka, a collection of Buddha's teachings, and the Tibetan Book of the Dead, which is a guide for the dead through the afterlife. Other important Buddhist texts include the Lotus Sutra, Heart Sutra, and Diamond Sutra.
Islamic books, such as the Quran and Hadith, are also prevalent in Nepal, particularly in the Muslim community. These books contain teachings, stories, and principles related to Islam.
In addition to these, Nepal is also home to a small Christian population, and there are several Christian religious books available in the country. These include the Bible, which is considered the holy book for Christians, and other religious texts and teachings.
Overall, religious books found in Nepal are an integral part of the country's diverse cultural and spiritual landscape. They offer insight into various religions, philosophies, and practices and provide guidance and inspiration to many Nepalese people.
