Carrying Enemies on Your Shoulder...

Carrying Enemies on Your Shoulder...

Publisher
Sri Satguru
Published
1996
Pages
131
ISBN-13
9788170304791
Format
other
Language
English

Detailed introduction and annotations with English translation of the Tibetan text of the Nītiśāstra of Masūrākṣa; dealing on Buddhist ethic for statecraft.

Book Summary
This book presents a critical edition, English translation, and detailed annotations of the Tibetan text of Masūrākṣa's Nītiśāstra, a classical Buddhist treatise on statecraft and ethics. It offers scholars and students of Buddhist studies, political philosophy, and Tibetan literature direct access to an important primary source on ethical governance, making it a valuable resource for understanding how Buddhist principles were applied to political leadership in ancient India and Tibet.
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About Carrying Enemies on Your Shoulder...

Carrying Enemies on Your Shoulder... by Hugh Meredith Flick provides a comprehensive introduction, annotated English translation, and the original Tibetan text of the Nītiśāstra attributed to Masūrākṣa. This ancient Buddhist treatise on statecraft explores the ethical dimensions of governance, offering guidance on how rulers should conduct themselves, manage adversaries, and uphold moral principles in political life. Flick's work includes a detailed introduction that situates the text within its historical and literary context, explaining its significance in Buddhist ethics and Indian political thought. The annotations clarify difficult terms and concepts, making the text accessible to both specialists and general readers interested in Buddhist philosophy. By presenting the Tibetan text alongside the translation, the book serves as a valuable tool for scholars of Tibetan Buddhism, comparative political theory, and classical Indian literature. It sheds light on how Buddhist ideals of compassion, non-harm, and wisdom were integrated into practical advice for rulers, offering timeless insights into the relationship between ethics and power.

Who should read Carrying Enemies on Your Shoulder...?

This book is essential for scholars and students of Buddhist studies, Tibetan literature, and comparative political philosophy. It will appeal to readers interested in classical Indian statecraft, Buddhist ethics, and the transmission of texts across cultures. Historians of South Asia and Tibet, as well as practitioners seeking to understand how Buddhist principles apply to leadership and governance, will find it invaluable. Libraries and academic institutions should include it in their collections on religion and politics.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • ✓ Provides a clear English translation alongside the original Tibetan text, facilitating comparative study.
  • ✓ Includes detailed annotations that clarify obscure terms and cultural references.
  • ✓ Offers a substantial introduction that contextualizes the Nītiśāstra within Buddhist and Indian political thought.
  • ✓ Makes an important primary source accessible to non-specialists while retaining scholarly rigor.
  • ✓ Sheds light on the ethical dimensions of statecraft from a Buddhist perspective, relevant to contemporary discussions.
Cons
  • ✗ The specialized subject matter may be challenging for readers without background in Buddhist studies or Tibetan language.
  • ✗ The focus on a single classical text limits its scope for those seeking a broader survey of Buddhist political ethics.
  • ✗ The translation and annotations, while thorough, may assume some familiarity with Sanskrit or Tibetan terminology.
  • ✗ The book's academic tone might not appeal to general readers looking for practical leadership advice.
  • ✗ Availability may be limited outside academic libraries or specialized booksellers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Nītiśāstra of Masūrākṣa?
It is a classical Buddhist treatise on statecraft and ethics, offering guidance on governance, leadership, and moral conduct for rulers, attributed to the Indian master Masūrākṣa.
Is this book suitable for readers without knowledge of Tibetan?
Yes, the book provides a full English translation and annotations, making the content accessible to those who do not read Tibetan, though some familiarity with Buddhist concepts may help.
Does the book include the original Tibetan text?
Yes, it includes the Tibetan text alongside the English translation, which is valuable for scholars and students of Tibetan literature.
What kind of annotations are provided?
The annotations clarify difficult terminology, cultural references, and philosophical concepts, helping readers understand the text's context and meaning.
Who is the author, Hugh Meredith Flick?
Hugh Meredith Flick is a scholar specializing in Buddhist studies and Tibetan literature, known for his work on classical Indian and Tibetan texts.

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