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Buddhist woman's path to enlightenment, A

By Workshop on the Tamil Narrative Maṇimēkalai (1995 Uppsala University)

Book Description

This scholarly exploration delves into the ancient Tamil text Manimekalai, offering profound insights into a woman's spiritual journey toward Buddhist enlightenment. Drawing from proceedings of an international workshop at Uppsala University, this volume presents diverse perspectives on one of Buddhism's most significant narratives about feminine spiritual awakening.

The collection examines the historical foundations of this remarkable text, investigating questions of authorship, dating, and cultural context that have intrigued scholars for generations. Beyond historical analysis, the contributors illuminate the text's rich spiritual themes, including Buddhist concepts of causation, the nature of divine beings, and the soul's journey toward liberation.

Central to this work is the exploration of the "amuta curapi" or "bowl of immortality," a powerful symbol within the narrative that represents spiritual transformation. The scholars present interpretative frameworks that reveal how ancient Buddhist thought addressed women's spiritual potential and religious authority.

The volume includes gender analysis that examines how the text portrays women's capacity for achieving enlightenment, offering contemporary readers fresh perspectives on Buddhist teachings about spiritual equality. Through careful examination of rituals, religious practices, and the concept of "Reform Buddhism" within the text, this work bridges ancient wisdom with modern understanding.

For those interested in Buddhist philosophy, women's spiritual history, or the intersection of gender and religious experience, this academic collection provides valuable insights into how ancient texts continue to inform contemporary spiritual seeking.