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Preface to the Revised Edition

This little book does not attempt to give an exposition of any particular thought from the authoritative standpoint of view. It is, on the other hand, a collection of essays on Buddhism which are understood by a Japanese student who sets out for a journey in search of his true self.

Although there are many English books on Buddhism which are written by the Eastern and Western scholars, they are rather difficult to read by the general public, and are sometimes misleading from the Buddhist point of view. It was my long cherished hope to write a comprehensive book on Buddhism from within, so that the readers may understand the accurate form of Buddhism as it existed, and is existing today. It is an undeniable fact that Buddhism still remains in a showbox to be displayed. It is often regarded by Westerners as nothing but one of the exotic religions of the Orient, and real interest in it is only seen in the academic fields in the West.

The time has come for us to think of Buddhism not in terms of temples old and new, or of traditional rituals, but in terms of injecting more vitality to make Buddhism more meaningful to all of us. We of this generation must make it known to the world that Buddhism has a living significance as a great world religion and can contribute to the enrichment of world culture.

When I heard of the coming of the 800th Anniversary of the founding of the Jodo denomination of Buddhism in 1974,1 felt more than anything else the pressing need to introduce some important Buddhist ideas so that this anniversary might become a memorable and meaningful one for us and for the introduction of Buddhism to the West. Only for this reason is this book written, and no other.

My deepest appreciation is given to the students of our English Seminar who have extended their helping hands in reading and typing articles. I must also acknowledge my thankfulness to Miss Bessie Tsuji and Miss Anthea Haslgrave for their assistance in proofreading my articles in the last stretch. Without their assistance and cooperation this book would never have been possible.

The Author

February, 1973

Honolulu, Hawaii

U.S.A.