About the book
Sand and Pebbles presents the first complete English rendering of Shasekishū--the classic, popular Buddhist \"Tale Literature\" (setsuwa). This collection of instructive, yet often humorous, anecdotes appeared in the late thirteenth century, within decades of the first stirrings of the revolutionary movements of Kamakura Buddhism. Shasekishū's author, Mujū Ichien (1226-1312), lived in a rural temple apart from the centers of political and literary activity, and his stories reflect the customs, attitudes and lifestyles of the commoners.
In Sand and Pebbles, complete translations of Book One and other significant narrative parts are supplemented by summaries of the remaining (especially didactic) material and by excerpts from Mujū's later work. Introduced by a historical sketch of the period, this work also contains a biography of Mujū. Illustrations, charts, a chronology, glossary of terms, notes, an extensive bibliography and an index guide the reader into a seldom seen corner of old Japan.
Mujū and his writings will interest students of literature as well as scholars of Japanese religion, especially Buddhism. Anthropologists and sociologists will discover details of Kamakura life and thought unrecorded in the official chronicles of the age.
Editions of Sand and Pebbles
- Hardcover
- ISBN 9780887060595
- Paperback
- ISBN 9780887060601
- PDF
- ISBN 9781438413655
Read an Excerpt
Sand and Pebbles presents the first complete English rendering of Shasekishū--the classic, popular Buddhist \"Tale Literature\" (setsuwa). This collection of instructive, yet often humorous, anecdotes appeared in the late thirteenth century, within decades of the first stirrings of the revolutionary movements of Kamakura Buddhism. Shasekishū's author, Mujū Ichien (1226-1312), lived in a rural temple apart from the centers of political and literary activity, and his stories reflect the customs, attitudes and lifestyles of the commoners.
In Sand and Pebbles, complete translations of Book One and other significant narrative parts are supplemented by summaries of the remaining (especially didactic) material and by excerpts from Mujū's later work. Introduced by a historical sketch of the period, this work also contains a biography of Mujū. Illustrations, charts, a chronology, glossary of terms, notes, an extensive bibliography and an index guide the reader into a seldom seen corner of old Japan.
Mujū and his writings will interest students of literature as well as scholars of Japanese religion, especially Buddhism. Anthropologists and sociologists will discover details of Kamakura life and thought unrecorded in the official chronicles of the age.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sand and Pebbles about?
Sand and Pebbles presents the first complete English rendering of Shasekishū--the classic, popular Buddhist \"Tale Literature\" (setsuwa). This collection of instructive, yet often humorous, anecdotes appeared in the late thirteenth century, within decades of the first stirrings of the revolutionary movements of Kamakura Buddhism. Shasekishū's author, Mujū Ichien (1226-1312), lived in a rural temple apart from the centers of political and literary activity, and his stories reflect the customs, attitudes and lifestyles of the commoners.
In Sand and Pebbles, complete translations of Book One and other significant narrative parts are supplemented by summaries of the remaining (especially didactic) material and by excerpts from Mujū's later work. Introduced by a historical sketch of the period, this work also contains a biography of Mujū. Illustrations, charts, a chronology, glossary of terms, notes, an extensive bibliography and an index guide the reader into a seldom seen corner of old Japan.
Mujū and his writings will interest students of literature as well as scholars of Japanese religion, especially Buddhism. Anthropologists and sociologists will discover details of Kamakura life and thought unrecorded in the official chronicles of the age.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Sand and Pebbles?
Philosophy and Religion > Philosophy > Philosophical traditions and schools of thought > East Asian and Indian philosophy
Where can I read a sample of Sand and Pebbles?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780887060595
How long is Sand and Pebbles and how many pages does it have?
Sand and Pebbles has 383 page(s)
Is Sand and Pebbles part of a series, and can it be read as a standalone?
Yes it is a part of series SUNY series in Buddhist Studies
Who is/are the Author/s of the book Sand and Pebbles?
Robert E. Morrell
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
Sand and Pebbles is available as hardcover(ISBN 9780887060595) and paperback(ISBN 9780887060601) and pdf(ISBN 9781438413655)
Where can I buy Sand and Pebbles online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy Sand and Pebbles from below
Where can I buy Sand and Pebbles?