初期密教における病と呪法

抄録

Early Esoteric Buddhist healing practices primarily utilized mantra infused objects, such as amulets or medicated mud and oil, to treat illness es. These practices were rooted in ancient Indian traditions, particularly the incantations found in the Atharvaveda. It was also widely believed that epidemics were caused by malevolent spirits, such as yakṣas and rākṣasas, which led to the use of mantras to expel these demonic entities. By the middle period of early Esoteric Buddhism, the practice of homa (fire offer ings)emerged as a significant element in healing rituals. A significant transformation occurred as Hinduderived incantations were reinterpreted within the Esoteric Buddhist framework, aligning them with the compas sionate and altruistic ideals of bodhisattvas. While Vedic scriptures, Buddhist biographies like the Jātaka, and Parittas undoubtedly influenced early Esoteric Buddhist healing practices, their core remained rooted in Hindu incantations. With the integration of Bodhisattva ideals into Esoteric Buddhism, healing rituals were elevated and reconceptualized as compassionate acts of Bodhisattva practice. This tradition of healing has been passed down to modern Japanese Buddhist practices, such as homa rituals, and amulets.