The Essential Guide to Buddhism

Beginning with an overview of Buddhism, this book explores the religion's origins in northern India and Nepal, through to its development and spread across Asia, to its vibrant and sometimes contradictory present.

The book covers key topics in the study of Buddhism, including its rituals and its scriptures, meditation and monasticism, and death and afterlife. The book also includes contemporary issues such as Buddhism and economics and socially engaged Buddhism.

Over 70 illustrations are incl...