Asian Religions A Cultural Perspective

“A unique introduction to Asian religions, combining the scholarly rigor of an established historian of Asian religions with the willingness to engage empathetically with the traditions and to suggest that readers do the same.”
Joseph A. Adler, Kenyon College

“Randall L. Nadeau has accomplished what only a few have tried, but which has been much needed in the study of religions. He has written a genuinely novel approach to the religions of Asia… This is a work that should find its way into Asian humanities, history, religion, and civilization courses.”
Ronnie Littlejohn, Belmont University

This all-embracing introduction to Asian religious practices and beliefs takes a unique approach; not only does it provide a complete overview of the basic tenets of the major Asian religions, but it also demonstrates how Asian spiritualities are lived and practiced, exploring the meaning and significance they hold for believers.

In a series of engaging and lively chapters, the book explores the beliefs and practices of Confucianism, Taoism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Japanese religions, including Shintō. Using a comparative approach, it highlights the contrasts between Asian and Western modes of thinking and living, and debates the influence of religion on real-world issues including work, economic growth, the environment, human rights, and gender relations.

Nadeau, a leading figure in this field, takes an empathetic approach to Asian religious and cultural traditions, and considers Asian spiritualities to be viable systems of belief for today’s global citizens. Integrating exercises, activities, and an appealing mixture of examples, such as novels and biographies, this refreshing book leads readers to an enhanced understanding of the ideas and practice of Asian religions, and of their continuing relevance today.

Preface ix

Part I Introductory Material 1

1 Religion 3

2 Language 11

Part II The Confucian Tradition 19

3 Defining “Religion”: The Confucian Response 21

4 The Religious Dimensions of Confucianism 28

5 The Self as a Center of Relationships 36

6 Learning to Be Human 44

7 The Lasting Influence of Confucianism in Modern East Asia 51

Part III The Taoist Tradition 59

8 What Is Taoism? 61

9 Philosophical Taoism 68

10 Temporal Dimensions of Yin–Yang Cosmology 76

11 Spatial Dimensions of Yin–Yang Cosmology 82

12 Personal Dimensions of Yin–Yang Cosmology 90

13 Taoism as a Global Religious Phenomenon 96

Part IV The Hindu Tradition 103

14 What Is Hinduism? 105

15 Karma-marga 111

16 Jñ?na-marga 117

17 Bhakti-marga 123

18 Hinduism in the Modern World 133

Part V The Therav?da Buddhist Tradition 139

19 Buddhism and the Buddha 141

20 Suffering and Its Causes 149

21 Buddhist Ethics 156

22 The Fruits of Meditation 164

23 Monastic Practice 171

Part VI The Mah?y?na Buddhist Tradition 179

24 Faith 181

25 Principles of Zen Buddhism 189

26 Buddhism as a Global Religion 199

Part VII Japanese Religions 207

27 Japanese Religion and Culture 209

28 Shrine Shint?: Dimensions of Sacred Time and Space in Japan 218

29 Dimensions of Religion in Modern Japan 227

Part VIII Conclusions 237

30 “Religion” and the Religions 239

Appendix: Suggestions for Further Reading 246

Glossary 255

Index 260

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