What are Asuras in Buddhism?

What are Asuras in Buddhism?

Author: Nicholas Bright Haight September 8, 2023 Duration: 22:18

Bright on Buddhism Episode 69 - What are Asuras in Buddhism? What is their status in the canon? How ought we understand them?


Resources: Kōno, Tama (1959). Iwanami Koten Bungaku Taikei 10: Utsubo Monogatari (in Japanese). Iwanami Shoten. ISBN 4-00-060010-9.; Kōno, Tama (1960). Iwanami Koten Bungaku Taikei 11: Utsubo Monogatari (in Japanese). Iwanami Shoten. ISBN 4-00-060011-7.; Kōno, Tama (1962). Iwanami Koten Bungaku Taikei 12: Utsubo Monogatari (in Japanese). Iwanami Shoten. ISBN 4-00-060012-5.; Kubota, Jun (2007). Iwanami Nihon Koten Bungaku Jiten [Iwanami dictionary of Japanese classical literature] (in Japanese). Iwanami Shoten. ISBN 978-4-00-080310-6.; Nihon Koten Bungaku Daijiten: Kan'yakuban [A Comprehensive Dictionary of Classical Japanese Literature: Concise Edition]. Tōkyō: Iwanami Shoten. 1986. ISBN 4-00-080067-1.; Shinozaki Shorin, The Tale of the Cavern (Utsuho Monogatari) (ISBN 4784104372).; Robert Beer The Handbook of Tibetan Buddhist Symbols Serindia Publications 2003 ISBN 978-1-932-47603-3 page 246;  Robert E. Buswell Jr; Donald S. Lopez Jr (2013). The Princeton Dictionary of Buddhism. p. 411. ISBN 978-1-4008-4805-8.;  Sampa Biswas (2010). Indian Influence on the Art of Japan. p. 72. ISBN 978-81-7211-269-1.;  Robert Beer The Handbook of Tibetan Buddhist Symbols Serindia Publications 2003 ISBN 978-1-932-47603-3 page 246;  Malalasekera, G.P. (2007). "Asurā". Dictionary of Pali Proper Names. Motilal Banarsidass Publishers. ISBN 978-81-208-3020-2.;  Chalmers, Robert (1895). "No. 31. Kulāvaka-Jātaka". The Jataka Volume I. Retrieved 2019-11-06.;  Malalasekera, G.P. (2003). Dictionary of Pali Proper Names, Volume 1. Asian Educational Services. ISBN 978-81-206-1823-7.;  Malalasekera, G.P. (2007). "Ānaka (Āṇaka)". Dictionary of Pali Proper Names. Motilal Banarsidass Publishers. ISBN 978-81-208-3020-2.;  総合仏教大辞典編集委員会, ed. (1988). 総合仏教大辞典 (in Japanese). 法蔵館. p. 13.


Do you have a question about Buddhism that you'd like us to discuss? Let us know by finding us on email or social media! https://linktr.ee/brightonbuddhism


Credits:

Nick Bright: Script, Cover Art, Music, Voice of Hearer, Co-Host

Proven Paradox: Editing, mixing and mastering, social media, Voice of Hermit, Co-Host


Nicholas Bright Haight brings his academic background and personal curiosity to each episode of Bright On Buddhism. As a scholar of East Asian Buddhism currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Religion, with a specialization in pre-modern Japanese Buddhist architecture, Nick approaches these conversations with both depth and accessibility. The discussions unfold in a relaxed, question-and-answer style, making often complex philosophical and historical ideas feel approachable and immediately relevant. You’ll hear explorations that draw from his specific research areas, like Japanese Buddhist historical responses to cultural shifts, while also addressing the broader, timeless questions at the heart of the tradition. This isn’t a formal lecture series, but rather a thoughtful dialogue meant for anyone with an interest in how these ancient teachings intersect with modern life. The Bright On Buddhism podcast creates a space where scholarly insight meets casual conversation, demystifying topics without losing their profound essence. Whether you're well-versed in Buddhist thought or just beginning to explore spirituality and religion, these episodes offer a grounded and informative perspective.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 252

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