The “Kamakura Great Buddha” explores the rich history and significance of this iconic bronze statue in Japan. It delves into its artistic construction, religious symbolism within Japanese Buddhism, and its historical context during the Kamakura period. The book highlights how the Daibutsu embodies both artistic ingenuity and the spiritual aspirations of a nation undergoing transformation. The statue's representation of Amida Buddha, central to Pure Land Buddhism, promising salvation, adds to its profound importance. The book examines the Daibutsu's artistic features, like its proportions and posture, in relation to Buddhist iconography. It also investigates the statue's evolving role, from its initial connection with Pure Land practices to its integration into Zen meditation. Unfolding in three sections, the book first introduces the statue's construction history, then explores its artistry, and finally discusses its role in Japanese Buddhism. This comprehensive approach makes it valuable for anyone interested in Japanese art, Buddhist studies, or cultural history.
