A History of Buddhism in Nepal: A.D. 704–1396

The book is organized chronologically and thematically. Chapter I surveys the historical sources used for reconstructing the history of Buddhism in Nepal. Chapter II discusses kings and preachers between A.D. 704 and 786, especially the role of rulers in creating religious tolerance and the work of the Buddhist trio Śāntarakṣita, Padmasambhava, and Kamalaśīla. Chapter III examines Śaṅkarācārya and his disciples in Nepal, while Chapter IV studies Nāthapantha and its interaction with Nepalese Buddhism. Chapter V addresses the revival of Buddhism in Nepal between A.D. 940 and 1040, including royal patronage, foreign Buddhist visitors, and the role of Nepal as a meeting ground for Indo-Tibetan Buddhist exchange. Chapter VI focuses on the visit of Dīpaṅkara Śrījñāna Atiśa to Nepal and his impact on Buddhist learning and reform. Chapter VII follows the visits of Tibetan Buddhists to Nepal, including Milarepa and later Tibetan bhikṣus. Chapter VIII studies the tension between Hinduism and Buddhism from A.D. 1140 to 1255, including political change, artistic development, religious competition, and Nepal’s role as a custodian of Buddhist scriptures. Chapter IX analyzes transformations in Nepalese Buddhism between A.D. 1255 and 1361, including the role of Aniko, invasions, palace conspiracies, and changes in Buddhist organization. Chapter X examines the Brahmanical purge of Buddhism between A.D. 1382 and 1395, including economic reforms, caste-based social transformation, and the cultural policies of Jayasthitimalla.