Unit 86 Meeting with Dr. Eugene Webb

SJG • 8/20/11 - Dr. Eugene Webb: lecture  in Tateuchi Community Room;
lousy pic by aleks

by Maggie C

Dr. Eugene Webb, Emeritus Professor, The Henry M. Jackson School of International Studies, University of Washington, presented Unit 86 guides with the topic, How Buddhism Became Japanese, on Saturday, August 20, in the TCR.  Via slides and lecture, Dr. Webb's presentation gave a fascinating overview of the beginning and growth of Buddhism from India, through China and Korea, to Japan. 

Dr. Webb's discussion included topics of how elements of other religions and beliefs influenced and combined with Buddhism, the rise of Zen and Exoteric buddhist practices, and the creation of the Tendai School in Japan.

His presentation have us all a better framework for understanding why the Seattle Japanese Garden is a Chaniwa Garden (Tea Garden), and appreciation for the historical design influences of the Garden's Pagoda.  We all learned a great deal from this scholarly presentation. 

For further reading, Dr. Webb's latest book is Worldview and Mind: Religious Thought and Psychological Development

Many thanks to Dr. Webb, and our Education Committee!
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P.S. from aleks - here are some active links regarding info on 'chaniwa gardens', in response to Keiko's comment below:
• Japanese Gardens: the Chaniwa - on asiawelcome.com
• Chaniwa gardens at wikipedia: Japanese gardens- wiki
• Gardens in Japan: A to Z Photo Dictionary
Thanks Maggie, Keiko and dr. Webb, for all the teaching - much appreciated. aleks