Buddha and His Teachings

The Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, lived in India in the 5th century BCE. His life and teachings have provided inspiration for people from around the world ever since. With an estimated 350 million adherents, Buddhism is the fifth largest belief system in the world today. This book explores the roots of the Buddhist faith, from the life of the Buddha through to the early forms of Buddhism that developed into the religion that is practised worldwide today. The opening section looks at the Buddha?s life in detail, from his early years as a protected and cosseted infant through to his spiritual awakening and quest for enlightenment. There is anaylsis of the Buddha?s travels and the spread of his teachings throughout India, on his establishment of the first Buddhist monastery and of the miracles he performed. The book then moves on to look in detail at the Buddha?s teachings, from his interpretation of the Dharma and the importance of karma, through to his attitudes towards the consumption of meat and alcohol, and the pivotal role of meditation in the search for enlightenment. Finally, there is a discussion of the first centuries after the Buddha?s passing, when Buddhism grew from a minor sect to a major religion. This section examines the various branches of Buddhism, how they developed, and their different interpretations of the Buddha?s teachings. There are detailed features on Buddhist holy days and holidays, and a fascinating look at early Buddhist cave paintings and artefacts. Written by a leading expert, this beautifully presented exploration of early Buddhism is lavishly illustrated with over 200 stunning photographs and artworks, and is an essential reference for anyone interested in Buddhist teachings and the history of Buddhism.