Women in Buddhism: Images of the Feminine in the Mahayana Tradition

Rating:
Summary: An excellent collection and analysis of ancient texts.
Review: This is an interesting commentary and translation of several key pieces of early Buddhist literature on women and their various roles in society. Paul organizes the book around several key types, such as "Temptress", "Mother", and "Nun". Each translation is preceeded by a very useful "introduction" which explains the context of the piece that follows as well as providing some interpretation. This book is not for those interested in exploring the lives of contemporary Buddhist women, but rather provides for those interested in such things, an interesting analysis of ancient texts that relate to women.