Call of the Infinite by John Paraskevopoulos

This thoughtful short outline of its spirituality, while disclaiming academic originality, is distinguished by its clarity, enthusiasm and indeed its high level of accuracy. From the beginning, Shin was a highly sophisticated lay form of Buddhism. Shin (‘Pure Land’) Buddhism manages to be, simultaneously, one of the most widely practised forms of this tradition (the largest Buddhist school in Japan) and the least understood in the West. “Buddhism is much more diverse and multifaceted than many people think. While this book represents a serious intellectual exploration, it remains very readable and has much to offer the genuine seeker.”- Emeritus Professor Alfred Bloom, University of Hawaii - author of The Essential Shinran: A Buddhist Path of True Entrusting Its realistic appraisal of our human condition is perceptive and the author is able to unpack dimensions of spiritual reality with skill, while keeping his feet firmly planted in earthly realism. The book is likely to stir a deeper interest in this path amidst the diversity of spiritual perspectives and alternatives available today. “ Call of the Infinite is a concise and clear introduction to the major concepts of Shin Buddhism, a tradition that has received scant attention from those with a Western background. 'synopsis' may belong to another edition of this title. Paraskevopoulos' little book is a delightful read, 'adorned with the fragrance of light' to quote a Buddhist text. It also suggests why Shin Buddhism has so much to offer in fruitful dialogue and collaboration with its Christian brothers and sisters.

Written by a Shin priest, it shows very well why this form of Buddhism-real Buddhism, a form of Buddhism very different from the many popular images of it current in the West-might appeal to modern seekers depressed and frustrated with the decadent and sterile world around them.

This thoughtful short outline of its spirituality, while disclaiming academic originality is distinguished by its clarity, enthusiasm, and indeed its high level of accuracy. Shin ('Pure Land') Buddhism manages to be, simultaneously, one of the most widely practiced forms of this tradition (the largest Buddhist school in Japan) and the least understood in the West. Buddhism is much more diverse and multifaceted than many people think.

Call of the Infinite by John Paraskevopoulos