The Concept of the Buddha: Its Evolution from Early Buddhism to the Trikaya Theory

Abstract

The Concept of the Buddha presents an analysis of one of the fundamental Mahayana Buddhist teachings, namely the three bodies of the Buddha (the trikaya theory), which is considered the foundation of Mahayana philosophy. The author traces the development of the concept of the Buddha from the historical human teacher in early Buddhism to the philosophical concept of three bodies, particularly the sambhogakaya, which is the Buddha endowed with supernatural attributes and qualities. The author's translations from early and middle Mahayana sutras and sastras make newly accessible a wealth of material. This work is an outstanding research text for students and scholars of Mahayana Buddhism and anyone interested in Buddhist philosophy.