Theravada Buddhism: The View of the Elders (Dimensions of Asian Spirituality, 11) - Softcover

Tilakaratne, Asanga

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0824836731 ISBN 13: 9780824836733

Publisher: University of Hawaii Press, 2012

Synopsis

This book brings to life the age-old religious tradition of Theravada (literally, “view of the elders”) Buddhism as it is found in ancient texts and understood and practiced today in South and Southeast Asia. Following a brief introduction to the life of the historical Buddha and the beginning of his mission, the book examines the Triple Gem (the Buddha, his teachings, and the community of monastic followers) and the basic teachings of the Buddha in the earliest available Pali sources. Basic Buddhist concepts such as dependent co-origination, the four noble truths, the three trainings, and karma and its result are discussed in non-technical language, along with the Buddha’s message on social wellbeing.

The author goes on to chronicle his own involvement as an observer-participant in “the Theravada world,” where he was born and raised. His is a rare first-hand account of living Theravada Buddhism not only in its traditional habitats, but also in the world at large at the dawn of the twenty-first century. He concludes with a discussion on what is happening to Theravada today across the globe, covering issues such as diaspora Buddhism, women’s Buddhism, and engaged Buddhism. The book’s accessible language and clear explication of Theravada doctrine and texts make this an ideal introduction for the student and general reader.

About this title

About the Authors

Asanga Tilakaratne is professor of Pali and Buddhist studies at the University of Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Henry Rosemont, Jr. is currently a visiting scholar in the Religious Studies Department at Brown University.

Edition details

• Publisher: University of Hawaii Press
• Publication date: 2012
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0824836731
• ISBN 13: 9780824836733
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 224