A masterly book . . . will prove of great assistance to a student of Japanese literature and thought from the eleventh century onwards.-Times Literary Supplement A major contribution to the fields of Japanese studies, comparative literature, and history of religions . . . a book that begs for classroom use.-The Eastern Buddhist Innovative and provocative . . . will be of interest not only to specialists in Japanese religion and Japanese culture, but also to literary critics and cultural historians.-Religious Studies Review Rich and stimulating material . . . an important help and influence to all concerned with understanding the tradition that has shaped Japanese culture and religion.-History of Religions Thought provoking, finely written . . . one of the more original and creative contributions to the study of medieval culture and religion to be produced by a Western scholar. . . . Can be read with profit by all Western students of Japanese culture . . . one of those rare books that has something to offer Japanese specialists in medieval studies.-Journal of Japanese Studies A very important contribution to Japanese studies . . . a paradigm of the genre.-Pacific Affairs This is an exciting, ground-breaking book.-Chanoyu Quarterly I have been most impressed and even excited by what I have read.-Donald Keene, Professor Emeritus and Shincho Professor Emeritus of Japanese Literature at Columbia University This is one of the most important books in Japanese studies in a long time and will influence the entire field.-Robert Bellah, former Elliott Professor of Sociology, Professor Emeritus at the University of California, Berkeley | The Karma of Words by William R. LaFleur, Paperback | Indigo Chapters