Swedenborg: Buddha of the North

Paperback; xxxiv + 134 pages, including an Afterward by David Loy, index, and About the Contributors. With Forward by Tatsuya Nagashima (vii-xii), Preface and Introduction by Andrew Bernstein (xiii-xxxiv). Translation into English of Suzuki's "Suedenborugu" (1913) and "Suedenborugu: Sono Tenkai to Tarikikan" (1924). From the Swedenborg Foundation website: "Renowned Zen Buddhist scholar D. T. Suzuki engages deeply with the visionary work of Emanuel Swedenborg, exploring striking parallels between Swedenborg’s Christian mysticism and Buddhism. Suzuki’s essays illuminate how Swedenborg’s spiritual revelations—his descriptions of heaven, divine love, and the nature of the soul—resonate with Buddhist principles of interdependence, self-transcendence, and the concept of “other-power” (tariki). By examining Swedenborg’s mystical writings through the lens of Zen philosophy, Suzuki uncovers universal truths that bridge the East-West divide, revealing shared pathways to spiritual enlightenment. Translated and introduced by Andrew Bernstein, this volume provides a seamless entry into Suzuki’s reflections, offering both historical context and a fresh perspective on Swedenborg’s ideas. In the afterword, philosopher David Loy expands on the dialogue between Swedenborgian and Buddhist thought, exploring how their shared focus on inner transformation and compassion offers powerful lessons for contemporary spiritual seekers."