Buddhism: a Complete Introduction: Teach Yourself

Buddhism: A Complete Introduction is a comprehensive and easy-to-use introduction, designed to give you everything you need to succeed, all in one place. Written by a leading expert, this book will help you if you are studying for an important exam or essay, or if you simply want to improve your knowledge. It is structured to mirror the way in which Buddhism is usually taught, starting with the life of the Buddha through to the prospects of Buddhism for the next generation. The book covers all the key areas that are considered central to Buddhism, including the Buddha's teachings, the scriptures and schools, the role of meditation and the moral and ethical context. It uses jargon-free English and includes features such as guided further reading and end of chapter questions to ensure that you understand all the concepts covered. Buddhism: A Complete Introduction includes: Chapter 1: Buddhists and Buddhism Who are Buddhists? The Three Jewels The Three Refuges Buddhist Practice In conclusion Chapter 2: The life of the Buddha The Buddha's significance The Four Sights Going forth Self-mortification The enlightenment Turning the wheel of the dharma The mission The growth of the Sangha Paranirvana In conclusion Chapter 3: The Buddha's teaching The first Nobel Truth: all is suffering (dukkha) The second Noble Truth: the origins of suffering (samudaya) The third Noble Truth: the cessation of suffering (nirodha) The fourth Noble Truth: the path to the cessation of suffering (magga) Chapter 4: Buddhist scriptures and schools The Theravada Scriptures The Mahayana Scriptures Pure Land Buddhism The Ch'an and Zen Schools The Tibetan Scriptures In conclusion Chapter 5: Meditation and devotion 1 Mind and heart 2 Heart and mind 3 Devotion as homage 4 Salvific devotion In conclusion Chapter 6: Ethical conduct Sila skilfulness The practicality of buddhist ethics Working on yourself and others The precepts and the dharma Renunciation In conclusion Chapter 7: Moral Issues The natural wor