The Sacred East: Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Daoism, Shinto

by C . Scott Littleton (Author)

• Used

  Paperback
  2003

  $3.25

  A guide to the spiritual and philosophical traditions of Asia, explaining the key ideas that have entered our spiritual vocabulary - such as karma and enlightenment. Increasingly, we are embracing the traditions of the East. This book is a superb illustrated guide to the compelling systems of belief that have shaped the East and challenged the West. Sacred East illuminates the main philosophies and faiths of Asia and explores the Hindu traditions of India, the richly varied Buddhist faith, the Confucian and Daoist beliefs of China and the Shinto religion of Japan. Each chapter focuses on a single tradition - examining its main beliefs and tracing its ancient and enduring practices from its historical or mythical origin to the forms in which it exists today. Theories of the individual and society, of nature and of the universe are clearly presented, illuminating such concepts as karma, reincarnation and immortality. Sacred East is clearly written and lavishly illustrated with striking full-colour images that vividly capture the variety and intensity of the Asian world.

• Used

  Paperback
  1999

  $3.25

• Used

  Hardcover
  1996

  $5.81

  This is a guide to the major religons of the East: Buddhism (including Zen); Taoism; Confucianism; Hinduism; and Japanese Shintoism. The book explains the common origins of eastern religions, each tradition's practices and beliefs, and how these have influenced the culture and aesthetics of eastern societies. Subjects covered include: Buddhism - the Buddha, Enlightenment, the Dalai Lama, Zen, monks and monastries; Taoism - the Tao te Ching, Yin and Yang; Confucianism - the teachings of Confucius, I Ching, the cult of the ancestors; Hinduism - birth and rebirth, Karma and yoga, the Hindu gods, the Bhagavadgita and Mahabharata, gurus and teachers; Shintoism - Kami (the essence of nature), demons, shrines and sacred places. The book should appeal not only to those interested in the spiritual traditions of the East, but to those interested by its history and culture, to armchair travellers and anyone who admires the aesthetics of oriental temples and gardens.