Buddhism and the Dynamics of Transculturality

This volume explores the transcultural processes shaping Buddhism's doctrines and practices, highlighting its unique influence on cultural exchange throughout history.

For over 2500 years, Buddhism has played a significant role in cultural interactions that have shaped its doctrines, practices, and institutions. While the cultural diversity inherent in Buddhism has been acknowledged, the transcultural processes that contribute to this diversity have not been thoroughly examined as a distinct topic. The book Buddhism and the Dynamics of Transculturality brings together various case studies that span different time periods, regions, and academic disciplines, addressing both methodological challenges and theoretical issues.

The individual contributions explore a range of subjects, from the influence of trade on the early dissemination of Buddhism to the hybrid religious practices found in Japan, and the complexities of Indo-Tibetan relations in Tibetan polemical literature. Collectively, these papers pose critical questions regarding the unique ways in which Buddhism influences and is influenced by cultural exchanges throughout Asian and global history. The volume emphasizes the significance of understanding these transcultural dynamics within the broader study of Buddhism.

Ultimately, Buddhism and the Dynamics of Transculturality aims to highlight the necessity of closer investigation into the interactions that shape Buddhist thought and practice. By suggesting new research avenues, it encourages scholars to delve deeper into the intricate web of cultural exchanges that have defined Buddhism over centuries.