Mediating the Power of Buddhas: Ritual in the Manjusrimulakalpa

The seventh-century ritual manual, the Manjusrimulakalpa, serves as a key text for understanding the intersection of Buddhist practices during a transformative period in history. Glenn Wallis analyzes its strategies for successful ritual performance, detailing the necessary conditions and personal traits for practitioners. This manual not only guides readers through ritual complexities but also offers insights into various aspects of Buddhist life, including astrology, medicine, and meditation, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of its time as it transitions from Mahayana to Vajrayana Buddhism.