Ocean: An Introduction to Jodo-Shinshu Buddhism in America

by Kenneth Kenichi Tanaka

An Introduction to Jodo-Shinshu Buddhism in America by Kenneth Kenichi Tanaka.

Genres: Buddhism

272 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1997

Reviews

[Kay]

A good, basic introduction to Jodo Shinshu Buddhism. Written like a dialogue or casual conversation a Pure Land Buddhist might have with a non-Buddhist, it is not meant to be overly academic or scholarly. That doesn't mean you won't find it informative and helpful however, since Dr. Tanaka approaches the issues he discusses in the same way you might be likely to encounter them yourself. For the vast majority of Buddhists, conversations and insights about Buddhism will come in the form of everyday talking and interaction with the world around them, not necessarily in university forums or research groups (although there is nothing wrong with seeking wisdom in those ways either).

Like a lot of American converts, my earliest Buddhist facts did come from those more academic sources--books on its history, development, sects, etc. While engrossing, they sometimes assume a more advanced education on Buddhism than the average reader has, or they analyze questions and issues from the perspective of a secular researcher only. Without any other sources or experiences, this can lead to a very stale, lifeless Buddhism without any personal understanding.

For example, many scholarly books written by professors with years of study under their belts will talk endlessly about karma, what it is, what people think it is, and so on. Dr. Tanaka used the much more modern and relatable analogy of karma as data input into a computer, something I never read in any "expert" book on the topic before. This less formal, but very apt, comparison was very helpful to me and will make it much easier to explain the concept to others.

[Kristi Wyatt]

A descriptive book on Shin Buddhism, something I have been studying. I really enjoy the perspective that you don't have to muscle everything all the time and that letting go can bring a lot of peace and happiness!

[Brian Glenn]

If you want to learn about Shin Buddhism, this is a wonderful way to do it.

[Paul]

This book can be a little basic at times, especially if you have some background in Buddhism, particularly pureland. The question and answer format is a little tedious at times.

Having said the above, there are still some gems to be found here and it is definitely worth a look.

[Vincent Davis]

I love this Book for many reason but I most love for the Poemon page 134 , trennslated by Taitetsu Unno