Buddhist Ethics and the Bodhisattva Path: Santideva on Virtue and Well-Being (Bloomsbury Introductions to World Philosophies)

Santideva's 8th century Mahayana Buddhist classic, the Guide to the Practices of Awakening (Bodhicaryavatara), has been a source of philosophical inspiration in the Indian and Tibetan traditions for over a thousand years. Stephen Harris guides us through a philosophical exploration of Santideva's masterpiece, introducing us to his understanding of the compassionate bodhisattva, who vows to liberate the entire universe from suffering. Individual chapters provide studies of the bodhisattva virtues of generosity, patience, compassion and wisdom, illustrating the role each plays in Santideva's account of well-being and moral development. Harris also provides in-depth analysis of many of Santideva's most influential arguments, illustrating how he employs reasoning as a method to cultivate moral character. As the first book-length English language philosophical study of Santideva's most influential text, this will be essential reading for students and scholars of Buddhist ethics, as well as for anyone interested in intercultural ethics and the philosophy of well-being. Santideva's 8th century Mahayana Buddhist classic, the Guide to the Practices of Awakening (Bodhicaryavatara), has been a source of philosophical inspiration in the Indian and Tibetan traditions for over a thousand years. Stephen Harris guides us through a philosophical exploration of Santideva's masterpiece, introducing us to his understanding of the compassionate bodhisattva, who vows to liberate the entire universe from suffering. Individual chapters provide studies of the bodhisattva virtues of generosity, patience, compassion, and wisdom, illustrating the role each plays in Santideva's account of well-being and moral development. Harris also provides in-depth analysis of many of Santideva's most influential arguments, demonstrating how he employs reasoning as a method to cultivate moral character. As the first book-length English language philosophical study of Santideva's most influential text, this will be essential reading for students and scholars of Buddhist ethics, as well as for anyone interested in intercultural ethics and the philosophy of well-being. "The Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Religion seeks to provide accurate and dispassionate information about the world's many religions and topics of research and debate. It will grow and evolve continuously, compiling over time an extensive collection of vetted essays of interest to all serious enquirers, whether professional academics, religious leaders, students at the graduate or undergraduate levels, or the wider interested public. ... The Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Religion aims to be a comprehensive and dynamic resource. The essays will range from short entries to major studies, and will encompass the study of scriptures, practices, social contexts, and history across religious traditions, various eras and places from diverse perspectives. They will be written by significant figures in the study of religion, who have already made their mark with their academic writing, and who will draw on cutting edge research. A rigorous peer review process will ensure that only trustworthy material of the highest quality is presented"--Letter from the editor page Substantive, Peer-reviewed, And Regularly Updated, The Oxford Research Encyclopedia Of Religion Combines The Speed & Flexibility Of Digital With The Rigorous Standards Of Academic Publishing... All Articles Are Written And Peer Reviewed By Certified Experts Of The Topic... Reference Articles Are Monitored By Experts To Ensure Fresh And Timely Updates Reflect New Insights.