Entry into the Inconceivable–An Introduction to HuaYen Buddhism

Book Details:

• Author: Thomas Cleary

• Publisher: Sri Satguru Publications

• Language: English

• Edition: 1996

• ISBN: 9788170305057

• Pages: 222

• Cover: Hardcover

• Dimensions: 22.5 cm x 14.5 cm

• Weight: 420 gm

Book Description:

Back of the Book:

Entry into the Inconceivable is an introduction to the philosophy of the Hua-yen school of Buddhism, one of the cornerstones of East Asian Buddhist thought. The book presents an overview of the Buddhist scripture on which Hua-yen teaching is based, along with a brief history of its introduction into China. It provides a succinct analysis of Hua-yen metaphysics as it developed during China’s golden age and offers full translations of four essential texts by seminal thinkers of the school.

Thomas Cleary, a renowned translator of Buddhist texts, has been praised for his clear and accessible explanations. The Middle Way calls the book “thoroughly recommended to all Buddhists wishing to deepen and widen their understanding.” The Vajradhatu Sun also commends Cleary’s competence in making important Buddhist literature accessible to those who do not read Chinese or Japanese.

Preface:

Buddhism, systematized over two millennia ago, is not just a philosophy but also a system of diverse beliefs and practices. Buddhism consists of three main spheres of learning: ethics, concentration, and analytic insight. These spheres complement one another, helping practitioners realize their full potential. Corresponding to these learning spheres, Buddhist literature encompasses scriptures, precepts, and philosophical treatises.

One of the major schools of Buddhism in China is the Hua-yen school, which is based on the vast Garland scripture. This book serves as an introduction to the philosophy, meditation practices, and ethical teachings of Hua-yen Buddhism, which is regarded as one of the pinnacles of Buddhist thought.

Introduction:

Hua-yen Buddhism is a holistic, unitarian approach that has enriched East Asian intellectual life for over a thousand years. Its foundational scripture, the Garland (Sanskrit Avataṃsaka) or Flower Ornament (Chinese Hua-yen), presents all Buddhist teachings as a harmonious whole, offering advanced metaphysical concepts and a comprehensive system of practices designed to complete the human being.

The Hua-yen philosophy gained prominence during the T’ang dynasty (618–907 CE) when Chinese civilization was at its peak. Masters of the Hua-yen teachings produced extensive commentaries and treatises clarifying the relationship between Hua-yen’s unique perspective and other Buddhist schools.

While Hua-yen Buddhism is famous for its metaphysical intricacy, its true value lies in its practical application—offering new ways of seeing the world, discovering unity in diversity, and overcoming mental barriers. The Hua-yen doctrine envisions the cosmos as a single network of interdependent relationships, where everything depends on and affects everything else. This interconnectedness parallels modern scientific concepts, making it a valuable framework for resolving issues in fields such as bioethics.

The core ethic of Hua-yen Buddhism is universal interdependence. The bodhisattva, committed to enlightenment, is dedicated to the liberation and well-being of all beings, translating higher knowledge into actions that benefit the collective. Although psychological and physical well-being is not the ultimate goal, it is considered a necessary stage in the realization of human potential. Buddhas and bodhisattvas view all beings as equal in essence, working to benefit all without losing sight of the complexity and diversity of the world.