Shingon: Japanese Esoteric Buddhism

by Taiko Yamasaki, Carmen Blacker (Foreword), Richard Peterson (Translator)

About This Book: Shingon -- the Tantric Buddism of Japan -- teaches that is is possible to attain buddhahood immediately, in this very life, by performing certain practices of body, speech, and mind. For centuries these esoteric teachings were kept secret, were never written, and were revealed only to initiates. However, in the 1940's Shingon doctrine and practice began to be published in Japan for the first time.

This is the first comprehensive study of Shingon to appear in any Western language. This book tells the history of Shingon. It discusses the metaphysics of Shingon, Shingon scripture, and the entire range of Shingon practices and excercises, including mudras, incantations, and visualizations.

Book Details: Trade paperback, 244 pp, b &w illustrations, End Notes, Appendix, Index.

Genres: Buddhism, Japan, Religion, Philosophy

304 pages, Paperback

First published June 12, 1988

About the author

Taikō Yamasaki is abbot of Jokoin Temple in Kobe, Japan, and Dean of the Department of Esoteric Instruction at Shuchi-in University in Kyoto, Japan. He is one of the worlds recognized experts in Ajikan and other forms of Meditation.