In this second edition of the best-selling Introduction to Buddhism, Peter Harvey provides a comprehensive introduction to the development of the Buddhist tradition in both Asia and the West. Extensively revised and fully updated, this edition draws on recent scholarship in the field, exploring the tensions and continuities between the different forms of Buddhism. Harvey critiques and corrects some common misconceptions and mistranslations, and discusses key concepts that have often been over-simplified and over-generalised. The volume includes detailed references to scriptures and secondary literature, an updated bibliography and a section on web resources. Key terms are given in Pali and Sanskrit, and Tibetan words are transliterated in the most easily pronounceable form, making this is a truly accessible account. This is an ideal coursebook for students of religion, Asian philosophy and Asian studies, and is also a useful reference for readers wanting an overview of Buddhism and its beliefs.
Introduction; 1. The Buddha and his Indian context; 2. Early Buddhist teachings: rebirth and karma; 3. Early Buddhist teachings: the four true realities for the spiritually ennobled; 4. Early developments in Buddhism; 5. Mahayana philosophies: the varieties of emptiness; 6. Mahayana holy beings, and Tantric Buddhism; 7. The later history and spread of Buddhism; 8. Buddhist practice: devotion; 9. Buddhist practice: ethics; 10. Buddhist practice: the Sangha; 11. Buddhist practice: meditation and cultivation of experience-based wisdom; 12. The modern history of Buddhism in Asia; 13. Buddhism beyond Asia; Appendix on canons of scriptures; Web resources; Bibliography; Index.
