Japanese Buddhist Perspectives and Comparative Theology: Supreme Ways in Intersection

Abstract

[Adherents of a particular religion consider their own tradition as absolutely authoritative for them in regard to ultimate destiny and norms for human living. The author here examines three views of the Supreme Way in Japanese Buddhism, namely, of Kūkai, Dōgen, and Nichiren. He then sets these views in conversation with Catholic perspectives on key religious questions about final destiny and demands of human living. In the process, he demonstrates how engaging in comparative theology can deepen one's understanding of one's own religious tradition seen in intersection with other forms of the Supreme Way.]