Call of the Infinite: The Way of Shin Buddhism

by John Paraskevopoulos

Buddhism is much more diverse and multifaceted than many people think. Shin ('Pure Land') Buddhism manages to be, simultaneously, one of the most widely practiced forms of this tradition (the largest Buddhist school in Japan) and the least understood in the West. From the beginning, Shin was a highly sophisticated lay form of Buddhism. This thoughtful short outline of its spirituality is distinguished by its clarity, enthusiasm, and indeed its high level of accuracy. Written by a Shin priest, it shows very well why this form of Buddhism--real Buddhism, a form of Buddhism very different from the many popular images of it current in the West--might appeal to modern seekers depressed and frustrated with the decadent and sterile world around them. It also suggests why Shin Buddhism has so much to offer in fruitful dialogue and collaboration with its Christian brothers and sisters. “Call of the Infinite is a concise and clear introduction to the major concepts of Shin Buddhism, a tradition that has received scant attention from those with a Western background. The book is likely to stir a deeper interest in this path amidst the diversity of spiritual perspectives and alternatives available today. Its realistic appraisal of our human condition is perceptive and the author is able to unpack dimensions of spiritual reality with skill, while keeping his feet firmly planted in earthly realism. While this book represents a serious intellectual exploration, it remains very readable and has much to offer the genuine seeker.”--Emeritus Professor Alfred Bloom, University of Hawaii, author of The Essential A Buddhist Path of True Entrusting “Buddhism is much more diverse and multifaceted than many people think. Shin (‘Pure Land’) Buddhism manages to be, simultaneously, one of the most widely practised forms of this tradition (the largest Buddhist school in Japan) and the least understood in the West. From the beginning, Shin was a highly sophisticated lay form of Buddhism. This thoughtful short outline of its spirituality, while disclaiming academic originality, is distinguished by its clarity, enthusiasm and indeed its high level of accuracy. Written by a Shin priest, it shows very well why this form of Buddhism – real Buddhism, a form of Buddhism very different from the many popular images of it current in the West – might appeal to modern seekers who find themselves depressed and frustrated with the decadent and sterile world around them. It also suggests why Shin Buddhism has so much to offer in fruitful dialogue and collaboration with its Christian brothers and sisters. Paraskevopoulos’ little book is a delightful read, ‘adorned with the fragrance of light’ to quote a Buddhist text. It is highly recommended.”--Professor Paul Williams, Co-director, Centre for Buddhist Studies, University of Bristol and author of Mahayana The Doctrinal Foundations “The excellence of this presentation of Shin Buddhism reflects the author’s mastery of the subject and the clarity of his concise and accessible expression. Both pastoral and instructive, the text moves seamlessly from its opening reflection on suffering and dissatisfaction to its ultimate celebration of infinite beauty and joy. What links beginning with end is the Dharma-Body, the realm of Nirvana which comes to know itself as the ‘true and real mind’ pervading the whole of reality. In the process, the author clarifies the nature of self-power and Other-Power, and skillfully explicates the great Vow of Amida Buddha as the fundamental ground of all spiritual endeavor. In this regard, his explanation of the practice of the Name, and its relationship to other modes of Buddhist meditation and moral cultivation, is both penetrating and lucid. As an introduction and a sophisticated exposition, this is an indispensable text on Shin Buddhism.”--Professor Brian Brown, Iona College, New York, author of The Buddha Nature

Genres: Buddhism, Spirituality, Philosophy

114 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 2009

Reviews

[Aleksandar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great introductory book on Shin/Pure Land Buddhism. It was recommended to me by a friend who's a Pure Land Buddhist, living in Japan, where it's the most prevalent Buddhist path.

The amount of similarities between Pure Land Buddhism and Orthodox Christianity are staggering. You could literally change a few words, for example Amidha Buddha for Christ and Pure Land for Heaven and most Christians would not think this is a Buddhist book.

There's even Buddhist Hesychasm! It's called Nembutsu and it's, simply put, the mental or actual repetition of Amidha Buddha's name, like a Prayer.

I'm really glad that I've been recommended this book and that I've learned about a path that's new to me.

The only thing that I don't like is that meditation and hard spiritual work is seen as almost a waste of time and faith is stressed. I ask: why not both?

[AngelLeah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book started slow. The first half of the book was the toughest to read, but it picked up for the last half. This is a good book for someone who wants to really look at the words and their meanings.
It probably says more about me that I like idiot guides better. Doh!

[Malum · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very basic introduction to Buddhism in general and, more specifically, Jodo Shinshu Buddhism.
Recommended for people who hardly know anything about Shin and who don't mind an author who clearly writes like he is trying to convert people rather than to just give information.