Theravada Buddhism provides a comprehensive introductory overview of the history, teachings, and current practice of an often misunderstood form of one of the world's oldest religious traditions.
Explores Theravada Buddhism's origins, evolution, teachings, and practices
Considers the practice of Theravada beyond Sri Lanka and Thailand, by exploring a wealth of material from countries including Bangladesh, Cambodia, and Vietnam
Reveals its rich and varied traditions, and corrects common misunderstandings about links to other practices, such as early Buddhism or Hinayana Buddhism
Incorporates student-friendly features including a glossary and other study aids
Acknowledgments viii
Map xi
Introduction 1
Part One Buddha 13
1 The Buddha and Buddhahood 15
2 Buddha Worship 43
Part Two Dhamma 69
3 Literature, Languages, and Conveying the Dhamma 71
4 The Jātaka 99
5 The Good Buddhist 112
6 Meditation 138
7 Abhidhamma 174
Part Three Sangha and Society 195
8 Monks, Monasteries, and their Position in Society 197
9 Women in Monasticism 218
10 Women in Theravada Literature and Society 238
11 Feminist Readings of Gender-Related Symbols 250
12 Nonharming, Politics, and Violence 262
Glossary 283
Index 290
