The Beginnings of Buddhism

The book is organized into eighteen chapters. “The Indian Background” explains ancient Indian culture, Brahmanism, caste, karma, Upanishadic thought, and the religious atmosphere before Shakyamuni. “Shakyamuni: From Birth to the Great Departure” examines political conditions, the Shakya clan, the birth at Lumbini, palace life, and renunciation. “Discipline and Enlightenment” follows Shakyamuni’s training, meditation practices, austerities, and awakening. “The First Sermon and the Beginning of the Teaching Mission” presents the Middle Path and the initial proclamation of the Dharma. “Yasa and Teaching by Due Course” and “The Four Noble Truths and the Principle of Healing” explain suffering, its cause, its cessation, and the Eightfold Noble Path. “The Growth of the Buddhist Order,” “The Visit to Kapilavatthu,” and “Clergy and Laity” describe early missionary activity, major conversions, the Sangha, and the relation between renunciants and lay followers. Later chapters treat Buddhism in Magadha, Anga, and Kosala; the comparison between Buddhism and Jainism; the Buddhist response to criticism; the distinction between the Law of the Buddha and worldly law; the unity of doctrine and practice; the proper understanding of supernatural powers; Shakyamuni’s final journey and Great Decease; and practical guidance for Buddhist living.