Non-dualism as the Foundation of Dualism: the Case of Shinran Shōnin
Journal of Dharma Studies April 1, 2024 DOI: 10.1007/s42240-023-00153-w (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that Shinran's Pure Land teachings should be understood through the Mahāyāna two-truths framework, in which non-dual ultimate reality manifests within conventional reality as compassionate "other-power" (tariki), evoking radical entrusting (shinjin) and a liberative transformation that occurs "naturally" (jinen). The author contends that Shinran paradoxically retains both non-dualist and dualist perspectives, so that non-dualism must be realized through a spiritual practice with strong dualist aspects. |
Abstract
Abstract Starting from the allegation of the Pure Land tradition “as a deviant form of Buddhism,” the paper looks at non-dualist and dualist features in the teachings of the Japanese medieval Pure Land master Shinran Shōnin (1173–1263). It is suggested that Shinran should be understood within the Mahāyāna framework of the two truths or realities (satyadvaya). Shinran retains both perspectives in a paradoxical way implicating that non-dualism needs to be realized in a spiritual practice with strong dualist aspects. Non-dual ultimate reality manifests itself within conventional reality as the all-embracing compassionate “other-power” (tariki) that evokes an existential attitude of radical entrusting (shinjin) thereby evoking a liberative transformation “naturally” (jinen).