Western Buddhism: 1 definition
Introduction:
Western Buddhism means something in Buddhism, Pali. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.
In Buddhism
General definition (in Buddhism)
Source: WikiPedia: BuddhismBuddhism in the West broadly encompasses the knowledge and practice of Buddhism outside of Asia. Occasional intersections between Western civilization and the Buddhist world have been occurring for thousands of years, but it was not until the era of European colonization of Buddhist countries in Asia during the 19th century that detailed knowledge of Buddhism became available to large numbers of people in the west as a result of accompanying scholarly endeavours. Increasing numbers of westerners began converting to Buddhism in the mid-20th century due to the wider availability of Buddhist texts and missionary efforts by eastern monks. Beyond direct converts, Buddhist thought has increasingly influenced Western popular culture and spiritual movements during that time.
Alexander the Greats conquest of much of Central Asia set the stage for contacts between the civilizations of Greece and India and led directly to Greco Buddhism. Buddhism is sometimes alleged to have influenced Gnosticism, a broad religious movement popular in the Middle East around the time of Jesus.[citation needed] However, according to the Macmillan Encyclopedia of Buddhism (2004), this is speculation without historical foundation.
See also (Relevant definitions)
Partial matches: Buddhism.
Relevant text
Search found 1 books and stories containing Western Buddhism; (plurals include: Western Buddhisms). You can also click to the full overview containing English textual excerpts. Below are direct links for the most relevant articles:
Socially Engaged Buddhism (with reference to Australian society) (by Phuong Thi Thu Ngo)