Compassion in the Lotus Sutra and Benevolent Love in the Analects

A Reflection from the Confucian Perspective

Authors

  • Xinzhong Yao King's College London
  • Qun Dong Southeast University, Nanjing, China

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1558/bsrv.v28i2.171

Keywords:

Compassion, Benevolent love, Confucianism, Buddhism

Abstract

This article is intended to examine and then compare ci bei (‘compassion’) in the Lotus Sutra and ren (‘benevolent love’) in the Analects of Confucius. Despite many similarities, compassion and benevolent love have shown a difference between Mahayana Buddhist ethics and the Confucian moral system. This difference is revealed in the content and meaning of compassion and benevolent love, but more importantly through the ways they are practised, followed and expanded. Through different ways or paths, compassion and benevolent love have nevertheless established two different and yet mutually supplementary ideals that guide the spiritual and moral world of China and other parts of East Asia.

Author Biographies

  • Xinzhong Yao, King's College London
    Professor of Chinese Religion and Ethics Dept of Theology & Religious Studies
  • Qun Dong, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
    Professor of Buddhist Philosophy and Ethics Department of Philosophy

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Published

2012-01-11

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Section

Articles

How to Cite

Yao, X., & Dong, Q. (2012). Compassion in the Lotus Sutra and Benevolent Love in the Analects: A Reflection from the Confucian Perspective. Buddhist Studies Review, 28(2), 171-186. https://doi.org/10.1558/bsrv.v28i2.171