DOC Jewel in the Ashes: Buddha Relics and Power in Early Medieval Japan by Brian D. Ruppert in History

Description

The Holy Grail; as created and conceived by Chretien de Troyes in the late 12th century; had no obvious religious or Christian connotations but appeared in a story of chivalric adventure involving the knight Perceval. By the medieval period the Grail was to be found at the centre of the Christian church; within its liturgy and art. This superb book tells the history of the Grail from its origins in romance literature to its role as a central object of the Christian faith; its decline during the Reformation and its resurgance in recent years; devoid of its religious connotations. The intricacies and complexities of its meaning throughout history are explored in detail; especially its links with Joseph of Arimathea; with Christ's blood and the Last Supper; its power as a restorer and sustainer of life; and its mysticism in general. Whether a dish; bowl; vessel or chalice; the Grail became an exciting topic for later writers and theologians to explore and utilise; and Richard Barber suggests why this was the case. Well written; detailed and thoroughly absorbing; this is an excellent book.