Books with title Buddhism

Built around the teachings of the Buddha, who lived in modern-day Nepal about 2,500 years ago, Buddhism is one of the world's largest and oldest spiritual traditions. In addition to its adherents in southern, central, and eastern Asia, today Buddhism has many followers in the Western world who seek through it a peaceful mind, freedom from expectations, and spiritual enlightenment. In this accessible text, the basic beliefs of Buddhism, including the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, are presented in concise language accompanied by sidebar features defining key vocabulary terms and encouraging readers to think critically beyond the text.

The author does not overestimate the importance of this little book: it is nothing more than its title claims. It consists of three lectures given to popular audiences, with the accompaniment of many illustrations. It represents, however, a considerable amount of work in an almost virgin field. It has involved hard journeys to remote mountain monasteries, and days and nights of conversation and inquiry with many monks and priests. It is not, however, a profound study nor an exhaustive presentation. It barely touches many a subject, which would alone furnish more material than could be treated in three such lectures. It but scratches the surface.