Hermeneutic aspect of Buddhist texts interpretation by the Geyi method

The article deals with the geyi method, which Taoist monks used for interpretation of Buddhist sutras during the spread of Buddhism from India to China. It is emphasized the cultural and historical role of the geyi method at the early stage of Indian Buddhism penetration into China and its specific way of interpretation by matching Sanskrit terminology by similar terms and concepts of Chinese philosophy. We consider the hermeneutic aspect of the geyi method through such categories as interpreter’s consciousness, the process of cognition, cultural and historical tradition, intercultural communication, application, and the problem of understanding. The article also compares the interpretation by the geyi method with the same process in Buddhist hermeneutics, and this help us to identify the features of the hermeneutic aspect in the geyi method. Each method solves in its own way the problems of truth, understanding and interpretation of the sacred texts. Finally, we come to the conclusion about the heuristic significance of the geyi method and its essential role in the development of intercultural communication.