Download Absorption in No External World book pdf

Download Absorption in No External World book PDF Free by Jeffrey Hopkins

1. Full Book Name : Absorption in No External World: 170 Issues In Mind-Only Buddhism
2. Author Name : Jeffrey Hopkins
3. Genre : Tibetan Buddhism, Buddhist Philosophy, Religion & Spirituality
4. Page : 580 (Hardcover)
5. ISBN : 9781559392419
6. Edition Language : English
7. Date of Publication : January 2006

Absorption in No External World Summary PDF

"Absorption in No External World: 170 Issues In Mind-Only Buddhism" by Jeffrey Hopkins is a profound exploration into the intricacies of Mind-Only Buddhist philosophy. This essential book meticulously examines centuries of detailed Tibetan and Mongolian commentary on the first two sections of Dzong-ka-ba's seminal work, "The Essence of Eloquence". Readers interested in deep Buddhist studies will find an engaging analysis of 170 distinct issues, offering vivid insights into historical scholastic controversies and stimulating metaphysical thought. The text delves into key concepts such as the Great Vehicle presentations of the three natures and three non-natures, providing guidance on their application to all phenomena. It further illuminates the profound doctrines of the selflessness of persons and the emptiness of emptiness, central to advanced Buddhist understanding. Concluding with a thorough delineation of how the Mind-Only School interprets scriptures, this volume stands as a crucial resource for anyone seeking to comprehend the nuanced philosophical underpinnings of Tibetan Buddhism. It is presented as the final, standalone volume in a significant trilogy dedicated to Mind-Only thought, meticulously composed by Hopkins over two decades.

About the Author Jeffrey Hopkins

Jeffrey Hopkins (1940-2024) was a highly respected American Tibetologist and a pivotal figure in Western Tibetan Buddhist studies. He served as Professor Emeritus of Tibetan Buddhist Studies at the University of Virginia, where he dedicated over thirty years to teaching Tibetan studies and language, also establishing one of the largest academic programs in Tibetan Buddhist studies in the Western world. Notably, Jeffrey Hopkins acted as His Holiness the Dalai Lama's chief interpreter into English for a decade, accompanying him on numerous lecture tours across various continents. He was a prolific author, having published more than fifty books, including his seminal work "Meditation on Emptiness," alongside numerous translations of vital Buddhist texts by influential figures like Tsongkhapa and Dolpopa.

Absorption in No External World FAQ

1. What is the primary focus of "Absorption in No External World"?

   The book primarily focuses on a detailed examination of 170 issues within Mind-Only Buddhist philosophy, drawing from six centuries of Tibetan and Mongolian commentaries on Dzong-ka-ba's "The Essence of Eloquence." It explores key concepts such as the three natures, the selflessness of persons, and the emptiness of emptiness.

2. Who was Dzong-ka-ba, and why is "The Essence of Eloquence" significant?

   Dzong-ka-ba was a highly revered Tibetan Buddhist master whose work, "The Essence of Eloquence," is considered exceptionally important within Tibetan Buddhism, even kept by the Dalai Lama. It is a foundational text that provides rich insights into the whole of Buddhist thought and forms the basis for the extensive commentaries explored in Hopkins's book.

3. What does the "Mind-Only School" entail in the context of this book?

   The "Mind-Only School" (Cittamatra) is a major philosophical tradition within Mahayana Buddhism, which posits that all phenomena are of the nature of mind. Hopkins's book delves deeply into this school's interpretations of scriptures and its intricate philosophical perspectives on reality, non-duality, and the nature of existence.

4. Is "Absorption in No External World" a standalone book or part of a series?

   While "Absorption in No External World" can be read independently, it is the final volume of a trilogy on Mind-Only Buddhism that Jeffrey Hopkins composed over a period of twenty-two years. The preceding volumes are "Emptiness in the Mind-Only School of Buddhism" and "Reflections on Reality: The Three Natures and Non-Natures in the Mind-Only School".

5. What makes Jeffrey Hopkins a distinguished authority on this subject?

   Jeffrey Hopkins was a prominent American Tibetologist, Professor Emeritus at the University of Virginia, and for a decade, the chief English interpreter for the Dalai Lama. His extensive scholarly work includes over fifty books and numerous translations, making him a leading expert in Tibetan Buddhist studies and philosophy.