Empty Vision

Metaphor and Visionary Imagery in Mahayana Buddhism

Nonfiction, Social & Cultural Studies, Social Science, Cultural Studies, Ethnic Studies, Religion & Spirituality, Eastern Religions, Buddhism, Anthropology
Cover of the book Empty Vision by David McMahan, Taylor and Francis
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: David McMahan ISBN: 9781136857263
Publisher: Taylor and Francis Publication: December 19, 2013
Imprint: Routledge Language: English
Author: David McMahan
ISBN: 9781136857263
Publisher: Taylor and Francis
Publication: December 19, 2013
Imprint: Routledge
Language: English

Visual metaphors in a number of Mahayana sutras construct a discourse in which visual perception serves as a model for knowledge and enlightenment. In the Perfection of Wisdom (Prajnaparamita) and other Mahayana literature, immediate access to reality is symbolized by vision and set in opposition to language and conceptual thinking, which are construed as obscuring reality. In addition to its philosophical manifestations, the tension between vision and language also functioned as a strategy of legitimation in the struggle of the early heterodox Mahayana movement for authority and legitimacy. This emphasis on vision also served as a resource for the abundant mythical imagery in Mahayana sutras, imagery that is ritualized in Vajrayana visualization practices. McMahan brings a wide range of literature to bear on this issue, Including a rare analysis of the lavish imagery of the Gandavyuha Sutra in its Indian context. He concludes with a discussion of Indian approaches to visuality in the light of some recent discussions of "ocularcentrism" in the west, inviting scholars to expand the current discussion of vision and its roles in constructing epistemic systems and cultural practices beyond its exclusively European and American focus.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

Visual metaphors in a number of Mahayana sutras construct a discourse in which visual perception serves as a model for knowledge and enlightenment. In the Perfection of Wisdom (Prajnaparamita) and other Mahayana literature, immediate access to reality is symbolized by vision and set in opposition to language and conceptual thinking, which are construed as obscuring reality. In addition to its philosophical manifestations, the tension between vision and language also functioned as a strategy of legitimation in the struggle of the early heterodox Mahayana movement for authority and legitimacy. This emphasis on vision also served as a resource for the abundant mythical imagery in Mahayana sutras, imagery that is ritualized in Vajrayana visualization practices. McMahan brings a wide range of literature to bear on this issue, Including a rare analysis of the lavish imagery of the Gandavyuha Sutra in its Indian context. He concludes with a discussion of Indian approaches to visuality in the light of some recent discussions of "ocularcentrism" in the west, inviting scholars to expand the current discussion of vision and its roles in constructing epistemic systems and cultural practices beyond its exclusively European and American focus.

More books from Taylor and Francis

Cover of the book Religious Perspectives on Bioethics by David McMahan
Cover of the book A Reasonable Public Servant: Constitutional Foundations of Administrative Conduct in the United States by David McMahan
Cover of the book Made for Life (PLE: Emotion) by David McMahan
Cover of the book The Political Thought of Joseph Stalin by David McMahan
Cover of the book The Military Collapse of China's Ming Dynasty, 1618-44 by David McMahan
Cover of the book The Changing World of the Trainer by David McMahan
Cover of the book The Police In Occupation Japan by David McMahan
Cover of the book The Psychology of Eating and Drinking by David McMahan
Cover of the book Art and Commerce in the British Short Story, 1880–1950 by David McMahan
Cover of the book John Clare's Religion by David McMahan
Cover of the book Improving Teacher Education Practice Through Self-study by David McMahan
Cover of the book Sustainable Governance in Hybrid Organizations by David McMahan
Cover of the book Making the Human Mind by David McMahan
Cover of the book Guild and State by David McMahan
Cover of the book Preparing to Moot by David McMahan
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy