I. Planning Ideas
(1) Comprehensive Organisation and Study of Buddhist Canons
Undertake a systematic organisation and in – depth study of Buddhist canons from various schools and languages such as Pali, Sanskrit, Chinese, and Tibetan. Create a digital library of Buddhist canons by scanning and digitising ancient texts and develop a user – friendly digital platform to facilitate easy access and retrieval.
(2) In – Depth Study of Doctrinal Content of Buddhist Canons
Analyse and interpret the doctrinal content of Buddhist canons, including core teachings, philosophical ideas, ethical principles, and meditation practices. Explore the relationship between different texts and their position within the broader Buddhist doctrinal system.
(3) Research on the Historical Context and Development of Buddhist Canons
Investigate the historical background and development of Buddhist canons, including their origins, compilation, transmission, and evolution over time. Study the social, cultural, and religious factors that influenced the formation and development of Buddhist canons.
(4) Comparative Study of Buddhist Canons across Different Traditions
Compare and contrast Buddhist canons from different traditions such as Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana. Analyse similarities and differences in doctrines, practices, and cultural expressions and explore the historical and cultural reasons for variations among different Buddhist traditions and their canons.
(5) Research on the Relationship between Buddhist Canons and Buddhist Practices
Examine the connection between Buddhist canons and Buddhist practices such as meditation, rituals, and ethical conduct. Investigate how Buddhist canons have guided and shaped Buddhist practices throughout history and how Buddhist practices have influenced the interpretation and development of Buddhist canons.
II. Introduction to the Buddhist Canon Research Institute
(1) Research Objectives
The Buddhist Canon Research Institute aims to systematically organise, preserve, and study Buddhist canons. It seeks to gain a deep understanding of their doctrinal content, historical context, and development. This will promote the preservation and transmission of Buddhist canons, provide a solid foundation for Buddhist studies, and explore their relevance and application in contemporary society.
(2) Research Content
- Comprehensive Organisation and Study of Buddhist Canons: Systematically organise and study Buddhist canons from various traditions and languages. Create a digital library and platform for easy access and retrieval.
- In – Depth Study of Doctrinal Content: Analyse core teachings, philosophical ideas, ethical principles, and meditation practices in Buddhist canons. Explore their relationship within the broader doctrinal system.
- Research on Historical Context and Development: Investigate the origins, compilation, transmission, and evolution of Buddhist canons. Study social, cultural, and religious factors that influenced their development.
- Comparative Study across Different Traditions: Compare and contrast Buddhist canons from different traditions. Analyse similarities and differences in doctrines, practices, and cultural expressions.
- Relationship with Buddhist Practices: Examine the connection between Buddhist canons and practices such as meditation and rituals. Investigate how scriptures have guided and been influenced by practices.
(3) Research Methods
- Textual Analysis: Use philological methods to analyse and interpret Buddhist canons, including textual criticism, translation studies, and commentary analysis.
- Historical Research: Investigate the historical context of Buddhist canons by studying historical documents, inscriptions, and other relevant materials.
- Comparative Analysis: Compare and contrast Buddhist canons from different traditions and periods to identify similarities and differences.
- Interdisciplinary Research: Combine methodologies from religious studies, philosophy, history, and cultural studies for a comprehensive understanding.
(4) Expected Outcomes
Contemporary Application: Explore the relevance of Buddhist canons in contemporary society to help people better understand and practice Buddhist teachings.
Academic Contributions: Publish academic papers, books, and reports on Buddhist Canon Research to enrich Buddhist studies and provide valuable resources.
Preservation and Transmission: Create a digital library of Buddhist canons for long – term preservation and easy access.
Promotion of Buddhist Studies: Provide a solid foundation for Buddhist studies by systematically organising and studying Buddhist canons.