Amitabha, A Story of Buddhist Theology

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

—

Title

Amitabha, A Story of Buddhist Theology

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

Set in first-century Gandhara, this novella introduces Pure Land and Mahayana theology through the spiritual journey of Charaka, a novice monk grappling with the tension between monastic asceticism and a desire for active, worldly contribution. Blending historical drama with philosophical discourse, the story explores the nature of suffering, the concept of Amitabha as infinite enlightenment, and the path to salvation through compassion and wisdom.

Summary up to 500 words

Set in first-century Gandhara, *Amitabha, A Story of Buddhist Theology* by Paul Carus follows Charaka, a brilliant novice monk who struggles with the limitations of traditional asceticism. Despite his rapid spiritual progress under the guidance of Venerable Subhuti, Charaka feels a deep yearning for active life, scientific inquiry, and the application of wisdom to solve human problems rather than seeking mere extinction. His internal crisis is compounded by a forbidden love for Princess Kamalavati and the political turmoil surrounding King Kanishka's invasion of Magadha. Seeking answers, Charaka travels to meet the renowned philosopher Acvaghosha. Through their dialogues, the text elucidates core Buddhist tenets, including the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. Acvaghosha challenges the Brahmanical concept of Brahma, presenting Amitabha not as a creator god but as the embodiment of infinite truth, goodness, and purity. He uses the Parable of the Elephant to illustrate how different religious sects perceive only partial truths of the whole reality. The story intertwines personal spiritual growth with grand historical events, including the war between Gandhara and Magadha and the eventual peace secured through the exchange of the Buddha's bowl and the philosopher himself. Charaka eventually realizes that his true vocation lies not in solitary meditation but in using his scientific and medical skills to alleviate suffering, aligning with the Mahayana ideal of the Bodhisattva who delays nirvana to help others. The novella concludes with Charaka's marriage and his affirmation that the application of loving-kindness in all fields of life is the highest expression of the Buddha's teaching, bridging the gap between metaphysical truth and practical human experience.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.globalgreyebooks.com/ebooks/paul-carus_amitabha-a-story-of-buddhist-theology.epub

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Categories

• Religion
• Philosophy