A comprehensive guide to Buddhist history, philosophy and practice, magnificently illustrated with more than 500 photographs

This lavish volume introduces and explains Buddhism in an informative, accessible style. It is illustrated throughout with over 500 photographs of paintings, statues, historical sites, archaeological finds, festivals and rituals.

The history of Buddhism is explored in detail, beginning with the life of Gautama Buddha in India. This is followed by a chronological and geographical discussion of the dissemination of the religion into new regions right up to the present day, and an examination of Buddhism's interaction with new cultures and ideas.

This book is the perfect introduction to Buddhism for general readers, and a handy resource for students.

- Provides a general introduction to Buddhist philosophy, from the life and teachings of the Buddha in the 5th century BCEto modern-day interpretations.

- Discusses the principal texts in the Buddhist canon, provides insights into its philosophies of compassion, tolerance and non-violence, and explains key concepts such as karma, samsara and nirvana.

- Describes the evolution of the different schools of Buddhism, and the contemporary importance and role of Buddhism across the globe.

About the Editor:

Ian Harris was the Senior Scholar at the Becket Institute, University of Oxford, the Professor of Buddhist Studies at the University of Cumbria, and the Tung Lin Kok Yuen Distinguished Visiting Professor of Buddhist Studies at the University of Toronto, Canada.