Buddhism

by Clive Erricker

Published 20 July 1995
This text is part of the "Teach Yourself World Faiths" series. The book offers a basis for understanding Buddhism. The series aims to present information for readers with no prior knowledge of the religion, but who want to deal confidently with members of the faith community - both in terms of their beliefs and attitudes, and also the practical details of their culture, ceremonies, diet and moral views. The book is suitable for the general reader, and also for students seeking a broad understanding of the religion prior to embarking on more detailed academic work.

Covering all aspects of this fascinating religion from the life of the Buddha and his teaching to the different Buddhist schools and the practicalities of pursuing a Buddhist way of life, Teach Yourself Buddhism is a comprehensive and informative guide. It explores the diversity of Buddhism and how it has adapted to its growing global presence and new cultural environments as well as the relevance of Buddhist teachings in our world today. This new edition has been fully updated to include in-depth discussion of the place and role of Buddhism today, both in the East and West, and also considers what is undoubtedly the greatest challenge facing the faith - how Buddhism is to be transmitted to a new generation.