Tariki: Embracing Despair, Discovering Peace

by Hiroyuki Itsuki, Joseph Robert (Translator)

Drawing upon his remarkable personal history, novelist and Buddhist scholar Hiroyuki Itsuki introduces us to tariki, the Other Power that is the core belief of Pure Land Buddhism. The Other Power derives from the true and full acceptance of the reality that is within us and that surrounds us. It is not a philosophy of passivity and irresponsibility, but one of radical spiritual activity, of personal, existential revolution. Its essence is the spontaneous, wondrous force that gives us the will to act, to "do what man can do and then wait for heaven's will." Importantly, tariki is a power that flows from the fundamental realization that, in the lives we live, we are already enlightened. This enlightenment does not come easily. It is born of the unwelcome understanding that, despite our protestations, we are insignificant, imperfect beings, born to a hell of suffering that defines human existence. But in this hell, we sometimes encounter small joys, friendship, the kind acts of strangers, and the miracle of love. We experience moments when we are filled with courage, when the world sparkles with hopes and dreams. There are even times when we are deeply grateful to have been born. These moments are paradise. But paradise is not another realm; it is here, in the very midst of the hell of this world. Tariki, a power that transcends theological distinctions, avails us of these moments. In the endless uncertainties of contemporary life, tariki confers upon us a flexibility of spirit, an energy to feel joy, and the respite of peace.

Genres: Buddhism, Philosophy, Nonfiction

229 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 2001

Reviews

[David Clouse · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I often did not agree with Hiroyuki Itsuki on his views (mainly a type of Japanese Buddhism) I actually really enjoyed his writing style. This book was fun and easy to read, but I interacted with it heavily. I wrote in the margins would cross reference in his own book etc. Itsuki seems like almost all of his views are on the verge of Christianity, but just finds trust in a misguided view of what we should worship. He even ends the book relating how protestantism is so like Amida Buddhism. Anyways, disagreed with a lot, but really enjoyed reading so four stars!

[christopher leibow · Rating 5 out of 5]

A simple review of Pure Land Buddhism, in form of a personal memoir. I enjoued Itsuki's take and how he expresses himself. It is a little simplistic at times but that does not take away from the overall impact of the book

[Cherry-Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a lifestyle-changing book. Thoroughly enjoyed the lessons about gratitude, self-love, independence, and expectations. I have had this book on my shelf for years and would just enjoy the simplicity of the cover (lol). However, I picked it up in the Old Year and read a chapter a day because some of the teachings needed to be reflected upon and ingested. Thank you, Itsuki for your insightful thoughts.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

If Pure Land Buddhism is at all of interest to you or you find its concept of “other power” (tariki) confusing, this is the book for you. It’s an engaging personal memoir to begin with, but the fact that Itsuki uses it to make this essential Pure Land teaching so accessible makes it doubly enjoyable.

[Max · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like an older uncle sitting down with you over coffee telling you how he has gotten through the difficulties of life to old age.

[aldo zirsov]

haiya...nemu buku spirituality/philosophy, tp covernya kok kayak buku biografi bintang telenovela dari korea atau jepang gitu..:p

[lita]

beneran judge a book by its cover nih :D

[Dipa Sanatani · Rating 4 out of 5]

Memoir of the author's spiritual journey. I finished it in one seating.