The Christ and the Bodhisattva

• Book Title: The Christ and the Bodhisattva

• Author: Donald S. Lopez

• Publisher: Sri Satguru Publications

• Language: English

• Edition: 1992

• ISBN: 8170303230

• Pages: 282 (with 8 B/W Illustrations)

• Cover: Hardcover

• Dimensions: 23 cm x 15 cm

• Weight: 450 gm

Book Description

From the Jacket
This book explores the contemporary significance of two of the most iconic figures in their respective traditions: Christ in Christianity and the Bodhisattva in Buddhism. The volume features essays by distinguished Christian theologians—Langdon Gilkey, Brother David Steindl-Rast, and Ann Belford Ulanov—who approach the significance of Christ from the perspectives of the Roman Catholic contemplative tradition, modern depth psychology, and liberal Protestantism.

On the Buddhist side, Robert Thurman, Luis Gomez, and His Holiness the Dalai Lama provide insights into the Bodhisattva's significance in India, East Asia, and Tibet. The book sets the historical context for both Christ in Christianity and the Bodhisattva in Buddhism, shedding light on how these figures have become powerful symbols of liberation and redemption, serving as sources of inspiration for individuals and as moral guides for a compassionate society.

Contributors’ essays explore current presuppositions, problems, and prospects for dialogue between Buddhism and Christianity. This scholarly work brings attention to the rich array of meanings these figures hold within their respective traditions, emphasizing how their comparison deepens the understanding of both figures.

Introduction

The Christ and the Bodhisattva represent the pinnacle of human potential in their respective traditions. The Christ in Christianity is a symbol of divine love, redemption, and the path to salvation, while the Bodhisattva in Mahayana Buddhism embodies compassion, selflessness, and the vow to liberate all sentient beings. Both have served as transformative symbols for their communities and continue to inspire profound devotion and theological reflection.

This volume, stemming from a 1984 symposium at Middlebury College, brings together leading scholars from both Christianity and Buddhism to delve into the significance of these figures. While comparisons between Christ and the Buddha are common, the focus on Christ and the Bodhisattva offers unique insights. The essays in this book provide a deeper understanding of the Bodhisattva ideal, which is less familiar to Western audiences, and explore the ways in which Christian and Buddhist perspectives intersect.

Why the Focus on Christ and the Bodhisattva?

The comparison between Christ and the Bodhisattva was chosen for its unique value in understanding the respective ideals of Christianity and Mahayana Buddhism. While Christ and the Buddha share many similarities, focusing on the Bodhisattva highlights the dynamic and evolving nature of Mahayana Buddhism. The Bodhisattva's role in the world as an active agent of compassion and liberation contrasts with the Buddha's more solitary attainment of enlightenment. In this sense, the Bodhisattva is more than a static figure—it represents an ongoing commitment to alleviate suffering and bring about universal well-being, which resonates deeply within contemporary discussions of social justice and compassion.

This book aims to contribute to the growing field of comparative religious studies, encouraging a dialogue that enriches both Christian and Buddhist thought.