The History of Doctrinal Classification in Chinese Buddhism ― A Study of the Panjiao System

The panjiao systems were urgently needed for systematizing the massive and comprehensive translations into Chinese by Kumarajiva (334-412), explains Mun (Buddhist studies, U. of the West, California), and can be considered ended during the time of Fanzang (643-712), after which no significant new translation arrived. He categorizes the systems into ecumenical and sectarian, and discusses them in terms of the interactive relationship between the two categories. He also includes some of the major Korean Buddhist panjiao systems, because Korean Buddhism formed from relationships with neighboring Buddhist traditions. Annotation c2006 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Chanju Mun is an Adjunct Professor of Buddhist Studies at the University of the West. He received his Ph.D. in Buddhist Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.