A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Nirvana

When the Path of Vaishnava-Bhakti Crossed Amitābha’s Pure Land

Authors

  • Tamal Krishna Goswami

Keywords:

Vaishnava-Bhakti, Pure Land Buddhism, Tamal Krishna Goswami, interreligious dialogue, Gauḍīya Vaishnavism, Amitābha Buddha, nirvāṇa, Krishna-loka, comparative theology

Abstract

The article "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Nirvana: When the Path of Vaishnava-Bhakti Crossed Amitābha’s Pure Land" by Tamal Krishna Goswami examines the theological and devotional intersections between Gauḍīya Vaishnavism and Pure Land Buddhism. The article explores doctrinal contrasts—such as nirvāṇa versus devotional liberation—as well as striking parallels in cosmology, ritual practice, and devotional sentiment. Drawing from both scriptural and personal experiences, Goswami raises questions about sectarian identity and interfaith dialogue, proposing a nuanced view of religious pluralism rooted in shared aspirations for transcendence.

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Published

2004-12-13

Issue

Vol. 13 No. 1 (2004): Interreligious (Fall)

Section

Articles