Acknowledgments

From a Buddhist viewpoint, a book always arises from an interplay of causes and conditions, with various factors interacting in sometimes unpredictable and unexpected ways.It is no more substantial than a lump of foam or an optical illusion.In this sense, an author is just a conduit for worldly conditions, despite any perceived self-importance.This understanding is at least comforting, as there is no denying that many miracle workers have helped assemble, sustain, and guide this tottering wagon that resembles a book.This book greatly owes its existence to the steadfast encouragement and insightful guidance provided by John Kieschnick and Paul Harrison.Despite many years away from the Bay Area, I still find myself unable to emulate John's clearheadedness and Paul's perspicacity, even though science seems to suggest that a cold climate makes people sharper.The seeds of this book were sown when I participated in the 2015 Hwei Tai Seminar in Buddhist Studies at Stanford.I was captivated by Stephen (Buzzy) Teiser's ability to transform seemingly mundane stock phrases and platitudes in the manuscripts into a lively ritual scene.His advice and insights shaped many aspects of this book, from navigating technical terms to fostering a more positive outlook on existing scholarship.I thank the Kuroda Institute Editorial Board for their guidance and patience.Without their extraordinary efforts to keep steering the wheel, this book might have ended up resembling a patchwork quilt with threads coming loose.The anonymous reviewers provided copious corrections and constructive criticisms.I was also fortunate to have two chances to read with Shayne Clarke in recent years.Without this experience, I would not have found the courage to knock on the door to Vinaya studies.The humbling forty pages of corrections he provided after reviewing my manuscript helped me avoid numerous blunders and much mortification.