The Message of Buddhism: The Buddha, The Doctrine, The Order

The book begins with a preface explaining that it is adapted from Subhadra Bhikkhu’s Buddhist Catechism, first published in 1888 and later translated into English. The question-and-answer format of the original catechism is removed, while its essential doctrinal content is preserved. The introduction defines a Buddhist as one who reveres the Buddha as spiritual guide and earnestly lives according to his teaching. It explains the Three Refuges—Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha—as the central act of Buddhist commitment. The main body is divided into three parts. “The Buddha” recounts the life of Siddattha Gotama, his renunciation, enlightenment, and first teaching. “The Doctrine” presents core Buddhist teachings, including suffering, causation, rebirth, karma, ethical discipline, and liberation. “The Order” explains the role of the monastic community as the successor and guardian of the Buddha’s teaching.