The Religion of the Samurai

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The book explores the geographical and doctrinal distinctions between the two main schools of Buddhism: the Southern and Northern traditions. The Southern School, rooted in Pali texts, is characterized as the simpler Hinayana, while the Northern School, based on Sanskrit texts, is seen as the more complex Mahayana. It highlights the Western familiarity with the Southern teachings, contrasting it with the lesser-known Northern doctrines due to lost texts and language barriers, emphasizing the need for greater understanding of these diverse Buddhist practices.