A Handbook Of Pali Literature

The Handbook surveys the whole of Pali Theravada Buddhist literature (Ceylon, South East Asia). It reviews previous research in the field, and then concentrates on new methodological approaches and a treatment of later Pali literature (after the twelfth century).

This book, published for the first time in 2 volumes in 1933,has become a classic in Pali studies. It presents an exhaustivepicture of the Pali literature, both canonical and post-canonical,giving summaries of all the Pali books, from the VinayaPitaka which specifies the rules of conduct for bhikkhus andbhikkhunis to the JÈtaka Tales containing popular stories. Hereare presented the first Buddhist books in history, which becamethe scriptures that form the base for the TheravadaBuddhism.Providing a huge amount of information about early Buddhismand about ancient Indian history, this is an invaluablereference book for the scholar as well as for the general readerinterested in Buddhism.

This Book Presents For The First Time A Critical Study And Translation Of The Gandhavamsa Or `Book History` Of Nandapanna Of Burma.

"This landmark collection is the definitive introduction to the Buddha's teachings in his own words. The American scholar monk Bhikkhu Bodhi, whose voluminous translations have won widespread acclaim, here presents selected discourses of the Buddha from the Pali Canon, the earliest record of what the Buddha taught. Divided into ten thematic chapters, In the Buddha's Words reveals the full scope of the Buddha's discourses, from family life and marriage to renunciation and the path of insight. A concise informative introduction precedes each chapter, guiding the reader toward a deeper understanding of the texts that follow." "In the Buddha's Words allows even readers unacquainted with Buddhism to grasp the significance of the Buddha's contributions to our world heritage. Taken as a whole, these texts bear eloquent testimony to the breadth and intelligence of the Buddha's teachings, and point the way to an ancient yet ever vital path. Students and seekers alike will find this systematic presentation indispensable."--BOOK JACKET.