The Transformation of the Human Self through Religious Practice in Sufism and Buddhism

Abstract

This article offers a comparative analysis of the transformation of the human self in Sufism and Mahāyāna Buddhism focusing particularly on the nature and role of religious practice in human transformation. It first outlines the Qur’ānic concept of innate human nature (fiṭra) and the Sufi practice of invocation of God (dhikr, lit. “remembrance”), and explores how the practice of dhikr is conceived as a process of uncovering a primordial awareness of God possessed by all human beings. This article then examines the concept of Buddha nature and practices of invocation of the Amida, aka Amitābha, Buddha (buddhānusmṛti/nembutsu) and zazen (sitting meditation). Specifically, it discusses how these practices are intended to facilitate the realization of Buddha nature, which is likewise considered to be latent in all sentient beings. Based on this doctrinal and ritual background, this article concludes with a comparative analysis of human nature and spiritual transformation through religious practice in Sufism and Mahāyāna Buddhism.