Buddhism, the First Millennium

The book is organized into ten chapters that follow the early historical and doctrinal evolution of Buddhism. Chapter 1 discusses the formation of the Buddhist canon, the First Council, the recitation of the Buddha’s words, and the authority of sacred teachings. Chapter 2 examines the Theravāda and Mahāsāṃghika traditions, the background of the Second Council, the origins of schism, and efforts to restore the original meaning of Buddhism. Chapter 3 focuses on King Ashoka, his model of Buddhist kingship, pacifism in government, and the relationship between state and religion. Chapter 4 presents the Questions of King Milinda, highlighting the dialogue between King Milinda and Nāgasena as a meeting point between philosophical inquiry and Buddhist wisdom. Chapter 5 studies cultural exchange between East and West, including Buddhism’s encounter with other civilizations and its conditions for becoming a world religion. Chapter 6 explains the rise of Mahāyāna Buddhism, its origins, its distinction from Hīnayāna schools, and its role as a Buddhist renaissance. Chapter 7 explores Vimalakīrti and the ideal of the lay believer, including the Buddha land, bodhisattva action, and the doctrine of the mysterious. Chapters 8 and 9 examine the formation and spirit of the Lotus Sutra, its preaching setting, its view of śrāvakas and bodhisattvas, its practitioners, and its concept of the Buddha. Chapter 10 discusses Nāgārjuna and Vasubandhu, including Madhyamaka, emptiness, Asaṅga’s path, the Abhidharmakośa, and Consciousness-only thought.