Hyecho's journey: the world of Buddhism

Abstract

"This book is an introduction to Buddhism told as the story of the Korean pilgrim Hyecho, who traveled through the Buddhist world during its eighth-century golden age. Lopez tells the story of Hyecho's journey, along the way introducing key elements of Buddhism--its basic doctrines, monastic institutions, relationship to Islam, and importance of pilgrimage.

Contents

Introduction: tracing Hyecho's route -- Dunhuang: the discovery of the pilgrim's account -- Silla: the birthplace of the pilgrim -- At sea: the pilgrim sails for the holy land -- Kuśinagara: the Buddha enters Nirvana -- Vulture peak: two Buddhas seated side by side -- Bodh Gayā: the Buddha attains enlightenment -- Lumbinī: the Buddha is born -- Śrāvastí: city of the Buddha's miracles -- Sāṃkāśya: the Buddha descends from heaven -- Gandhāra: past lives of the Buddha -- Arabia: Buddhism encounters islam -- Wutaishan: the pilgrim passes away.