People new to studying Buddhism often struggle with finding a place to start. Here's a list of some of the best books on Buddhist studies out there.
The Top Five:
1. Harvey, P. 1990, An Introduction to Buddhism: Teachings, History and Practices.
Harvey offers a comprehensive introduction to the Buddhist tradition covering not only its historical developments, but also its main concepts and practices. This is a huge amount of information, but the book succeeds in being highly readable and its clear structure means that the information is easy to digest.
An Introduction to Buddhism is great for anyone looking for an encyclopaedia of Buddhism to dip in and out of. However, the comprehensive picture one gains of the religion if the book is read from cover to cover should not be underestimated.
This book is at the top of the list because it serves two functions. Firstly, it is a very readable book absolutely crammed full of detailed information. Reading it will give you a very comprehensive view of Buddhism. Secondly, it is a great reference book. With a simple structure and decent index it's great to quickly remind yourself of particular points if you're faced with an awkward question. No one should be without it.
2. Bechert, H. & Gombrich, R. (eds) 1984, The World of Buddhism: Buddhist Monks and Nuns in Society and Culture.
This is a beautifully presented and produced book. The level of writing is academic but very clear and the illustrations are exquisite. Like many of the books here, The World of Buddhism gives a 'big picture' of Buddhism. No attempt has been made to be fully comprehensive in discussing the religion, but the pertinent points have been pulled out and presented in such a way as to enable easy understanding.
The World of Buddhism may be slightly outdated, now 24 years old. However, its illustrations help to give a real flavour of Buddhism in all its incarnations. This, combined with the books inherent readability and academic value, makes it a must have.
3. Gethin, R. 1998, The Foundations of Buddhism.
This is a great complement to Harvey's book. Gethin concentrates on the ideas and practices which constitute the common heritage of the different Buddhist traditions. Starting with the narrative history of the Buddha, he analyses the textual tradition, the Four Noble Truths, Karma, rebirth, the various paths, and the interaction between monastic and lay life.
The Foundations of Buddhism is extremely easy to read and easy to understand. It is not as comprehensive as some of the other books listed, but it is certainly a page-turner. As a way into the religion you couldn't ask for anything more readable.
4. Williams, P. & Tribe, A. 2000, Buddhist Thought: A Complete Introduction to the Indian Tradition.
Buddhist Thought is not an introduction to the religion as whole, rather it is an introduction to certain ideas and concepts that developed on the Indian subcontinent. A certain amount of background knowledge is assumed. However, the book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in taking their knowledge of Buddhism to the next level of detail.
Williams takes a historical approach and applies this to many of the common myths and beliefs traditionally held by Buddhists. This endeavour is particularly rewarding in his analysis of the origins of Mahayana.
All in all, a great book for someone wanting to delve a little deeper into Indian Buddhism.
5. Cush, D. 1994, Buddhism (A Student's Approach to World Religions).
This book is particularly aimed at the world of RE. As such, the writing is set at a school level and the layout has a textbook feel. This means that Buddhism (A Student's Approach to World Religions) is extremely easy to use and very readable.
The book, given its target audience, doesn't go into as much detail as some of the other books in the list. However, it still manages to find the balance between more scholarly works and overly basic introductions and a large number of topics are covered.
If you're in a hurry Buddhism (A Student's Approach to World Religions) could well prove to be one of the most valuable books on your shelf.
James Robson BA (Oxon), MA (Oxon), MA (Bud Stud), O.W.
Expert in all things religious.
http://www.reonline.org.uk
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