Karle Ludvig Reichelt, although a Christian missionary in China, has given an interpretation of Chinese Buddhism in a manner which is lucid, thoughtful and sympathetic. In the book such points are brought out which show as to why Buddhism is incomparable in its philosophy. Rich and illuminating interpretations are offered with regard to everyday matters, temples, names and phrases. A flash of light is thrown into the abyss of darkness when it is pointed as to why Buddhist spirituality, particularly that of pure land, is elevating when seen in the context of its prayer: Nan-mo O-mi-t’o Fu. The book also helps us in understanding the tangled web of Buddhist history by setting into relief the great ideas, both philosophical and religious, around the person of Amida who, as it were, concretises into himself all such human aspirations and hopes that are constitutive of existence in the world. Moreover, Amida truly represents the Buddhist notion of compassion when he showers his grace on those who pray unto him. Finally, we realise, upon reading this book, that the Chinese way of life can truly be appreciated and understood only in the light of Buddhism.
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