Buddhist Psalms

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

—

Title

Buddhist Psalms

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

A serene collection of devotional verses inviting readers into the compassionate light of Pure Land Buddhism. This book offers poetic prayers and spiritual reflections centered on the faith of Shinran Shonin, exploring themes of mercy, the Divine Promise, and the path to Nirvana through the recitation of the Holy Name.

Summary up to 500 words

Published originally in 1921, *Buddhist Psalms* presents a collection of devotional writings by Shinran Shonin, the founder of the Jodo Shinshu school of Pure Land Buddhism. Introduced by Lily Adams Beck, the text contextualizes the work within Mahayana Buddhism, arguing that it represents a living, evolved faith rather than a degraded form of earlier teachings. The book emphasizes the central figure of Amitabha Buddha, the 'Lover of man,' who has prepared a Pure Land of peace for all beings. Shinran's life story is recounted, detailing his renunciation of noble status to become a monk, his rejection of self-effort and complex monastic rules in favor of simple faith, and his exile where he spread the message of universal salvation. The Psalms themselves are structured as numbered verses addressing various teachers, such as Nagarjuna, Vasubandhu, and Donran, while exploring key doctrinal points. Central themes include the rejection of 'self-righteousness' and 'doubt,' which are described as binding the soul in a 'Doubting Castle' or the 'womb of ignorance.' The text contrasts the 'narrow ways' of self-made merit with the 'broad, straight way' of relying entirely on the Buddha's vow. It also includes a section of lamentation by Shinran, confessing the inherent deceitfulness of the human heart and the corruption of the age, while affirming that only the 'Ark of Mercy' can save sinners. The work concludes with additional psalms reinforcing the idea that the Holy Name transforms the believer, making them one with those who have attained enlightenment, regardless of their past sins. The overall tone is one of profound humility, deep compassion, and unwavering trust in the 'Infinite Light' of the Buddha.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

Download URL

https://www.globalgreyebooks.com/ebooks/s-yamabe_lily-adams-beck_buddhist-psalms.epub

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Categories

• Religion
• Philosophy