Sam Van Schaik Books

ASIAN / MIDDLE EASTERN HISTORY. Situated north of the Himalayas, Tibet is famous for its unique culture and its controversial assimilation into modern China. Yet Tibet in the twenty-first century can only be properly understood in the context of its extraordinary history. Sam van Schaik brings the history of Tibet to life by telling the stories of the people involved, from the glory days of the Tibetan empire in the seventh century through to the present day. He explores the emergence of Tibetan Buddhism and the rise of the Dalai Lamas, Tibet's entanglement in the "Great Game" in the early twentieth century, its submission to Chinese Communist rule in the 1950s, and the troubled times of recent decades. "Tibet" sheds light on the country's complex relationship with China and explains often-misunderstood aspects of its culture, such as reborn lamas, monasteries and hermits, "The Tibetan Book of the Dead", and the role of the Dalai Lama.

"An exploration of magical beliefs and practices throughout Buddhist history"-- Provided by publisher

Balancing an ambivalent relationship to the past, and fear and hope for the future, Kasia Van Schaik's portraits of female interiority, immigrant identity, dislocation, and desire trace the transitions from girlhood to adulthood, grappling with the struggle to understand what it means to live on earth.

This comprehensive catalogue offers an extensive examination of Tibetan Chan texts found within the Dunhuang Manuscript Collections. It meticulously documents the various manuscripts, providing insights into their historical significance and cultural context. The work serves as a vital resource for scholars and enthusiasts interested in Tibetan Buddhism, showcasing the richness of Chan literature and its transmission in the region. The catalogue not only lists the texts but also highlights their themes and relevance in the broader scope of Buddhist studies.