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Figures of Buddhist Modernity in Asia: Rethinking the Narrative of Secularization

Ron Blair

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In the grand narrative of modernization, secularization has often been portrayed as an inevitable process whereby religion retreats from public life and loses its influence on society. This narrative has been particularly influential in the study of Asia, where the rise of secular nation-states and the spread of Western ideas have been seen as leading to the decline of Buddhism and other religions.

Figures of Buddhist Modernity in Asia

by Charles Bracelen Flood

4.1 out of 5

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However, recent scholarship has challenged this simplistic narrative, arguing that it fails to account for the complex and diverse ways in which religion continues to shape Asian societies. One area of particular interest has been the emergence of figures of Buddhist modernity, individuals who have sought to reinterpret Buddhist traditions in light of the challenges and opportunities of the modern world.

These figures have taken a variety of forms, from reformers to activists to artists. Some have sought to adapt Buddhist teachings to the needs of modern society, while others have used Buddhism as a source of inspiration for social and political change. All of them, however, have shared a common desire to make Buddhism relevant to the modern world.

One of the most prominent figures of Buddhist modernity was the Japanese monk Uchiyama Gudo (1870-1939). Uchiyama was a Zen master who was deeply influenced by Western thought, particularly the work of German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche. He argued that Zen Buddhism could provide a powerful antidote to the nihilism and despair that Nietzsche saw as characteristic of modern society.

Uchiyama's teachings were highly controversial in his own time, but they have since become increasingly influential. His emphasis on the importance of individual experience and his rejection of traditional Buddhist dogma have resonated with many people who are seeking a more authentic and meaningful spiritual path.

Another important figure of Buddhist modernity was the Sri Lankan monk Anagarika Dharmapala (1864-1933). Dharmapala was a leading figure in the Buddhist revival movement in Sri Lanka, and he played a key role in the establishment of Buddhism as a major force in Sri Lankan society.

Dharmapala was a staunch defender of Buddhism against the forces of Western colonialism. He argued that Buddhism was a superior religion to Christianity and that it could provide a basis for a more just and equitable society. Dharmapala's teachings were instrumental in inspiring the Sinhalese nationalist movement, and they continue to influence Buddhist thought in Sri Lanka and beyond.

The figures of Uchiyama Gudo and Anagarika Dharmapala are just two examples of the many Buddhist modernists who have emerged in Asia over the past century. These figures have played a vital role in shaping the development of Buddhism in the modern world, and they continue to inspire people today.

The emergence of Buddhist modernity challenges the narrative of secularization in two important ways. First, it shows that religion is not simply disappearing from Asian societies. On the contrary, it is continuing to evolve and adapt to the challenges and opportunities of the modern world.

Second, Buddhist modernity shows that religion can be a source of progress and social change. The figures of Buddhist modernity have used their faith to inspire people to work for a more just and equitable world.

The narrative of secularization is a powerful one, but it is time to challenge its hold on our understanding of Asia. The figures of Buddhist modernity show us that religion is not simply a relic of the past. It is a living, breathing force that continues to shape the lives of people in Asia and around the world.

Figures of Buddhist Modernity in Asia

by Charles Bracelen Flood

4.1 out of 5