Hinduism and Buddhism in Perspective

The book is divided into seven chapters. Chapter 1 introduces the comparative framework by presenting the Bhagavadgītā as a major Hindu scripture concerned with God-realization, devotion, action, knowledge, and moral instruction, while also situating the Buddhist Suttantapiṭaka as an early source of the Buddha’s teachings. Chapter 2 discusses the principles of ethics and morality, comparing the Hindu emphasis on righteous action in relation to God with the Buddhist concern for removing defilements and cultivating wholesome conduct. Chapter 3 examines action and rebirth, showing how both traditions accept moral causality while interpreting its basis differently. Chapter 4 studies the self and not-self, contrasting the Hindu doctrine of the eternal self with the Buddhist rejection of a permanent soul. Chapter 5 analyzes metaphysics and the imagination of God, focusing on Brahman, God, and the Buddhist refusal of such metaphysical absolutism. Chapter 6 presents the gospel of salvation, comparing Hindu liberation through devotion, knowledge, and disciplined action with Buddhist liberation through wisdom and freedom from desire. Chapter 7 draws conclusions on the philosophical, ethical, and soteriological relationship between Hinduism and Buddhism.