The Marathon Monks of Mount Hiei

Description

Paperback cover has some light creases and corner wear. Pages are clean and the binding is tight.

This fascinating book delves into the extraordinary world of the Buddhist marathon monks of Mount Hiei, near Kyoto, Japan. Written by John Stevens, a scholar and practitioner of Buddhism, it offers a rare glimpse into the centuries-old tradition of the Kaihōgyō – a grueling ritual that involves running a marathon daily for a thousand days. Beyond the physical endurance required, the book explores the spiritual and philosophical underpinnings of this practice, shedding light on the monks’ unwavering dedication to attaining enlightenment through extreme asceticism. Stevens’ immersive research and firsthand accounts bring to life the harsh realities faced by these monks, from the punishing mountain terrain to the mental fortitude required to overcome pain and exhaustion. For collectors, this copy presents an opportunity to own a well-preserved edition of a captivating work that bridges the worlds of athletics and spirituality, offering insights into a remarkable aspect of Japanese Buddhist culture.