Candrakirti's Introduction to the Middle Way: A Guide

The Introduction to the Middle Way by Candrakīrti is a key work of Buddhist philosophy, providing an introduction to Madhyamaka and occupying a prominent role within it. This Oxford Guide focuses on the philosophical content of the text, using Candrakīrti's auto-commentary as the main explicatory resource.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 26 February 2024
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Candrakīrti's Introduction to the Middle Way (Madhyamakāvatāra) stands as a pivotal work in Buddhist philosophy for two compelling reasons. Firstly, it serves as an invaluable introduction to Madhyamaka, one of the three major philosophical schools of Buddhist thought, alongside Abhidharma and Yogācāra. Secondly, within the realm of Madhyamaka, Candrakīrti's text holds a prominent position, primarily due to its profound influence in Tibet. It became the primary gateway for scholars to delve into the study of Madhyamaka thought, exerting a significant impact on the region's philosophical landscape. While the historical significance of the Introduction to the Middle Way in understanding a significant segment of Buddhist thought is readily apparent, what truly makes it intriguing for students is its role as an introductory text. This work is among Candrakīrti's earlier compositions and offers a comprehensive guide to the core philosophical ideas and challenges of Madhyamaka thought. This Oxford Guide is specifically designed for the philosophically inclined student or scholar engaging with the Introduction to the Middle Way. Westerhoff's commentary primarily focuses on the philosophical content of the text, utilizing Candrakīrti's self-commentary as the primary explanatory resource.

Candrakīrti's Introduction to the Middle Way (Madhyamakāvatāra) stands as a pivotal work in Buddhist philosophy for two compelling reasons. Firstly, it serves as an invaluable introduction to Madhyamaka, one of the three major philosophical schools of Buddhist thought, alongside Abhidharma and Yogācāra. Secondly, within the realm of Madhyamaka, Candrakīrti's text holds a prominent position, primarily due to its profound influence in Tibet. It became the primary gateway for scholars to delve into the study of Madhyamaka thought, exerting a significant impact on the region's philosophical landscape. While the historical significance of the Introduction to the Middle Way in understanding a significant segment of Buddhist thought is readily apparent, what truly makes it intriguing for students is its role as an introductory text. This work is among Candrakīrti's earlier compositions and offers a comprehensive guide to the core philosophical ideas and challenges of Madhyamaka thought. This Oxford Guide is specifically designed for the philosophically inclined student or scholar engaging with the Introduction to the Middle Way. Westerhoff's commentary primarily focuses on the philosophical content of the text, utilizing Candrakīrti's self-commentary as the primary explanatory resource.

Weight: 342g
Dimension: 209 x 140 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197612347