The Foundations of Buddhism (Opus S) 1st Edition

by Rupert Gethin (Author)

46 customer reviews

ISBN-13: 978-0192892232

ISBN-10: 0192892231

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Buddhism is a vast and complex religious and philosophical tradition with a history that stretches over 2,500 years, and which is now followed by around 115 million people. In this introduction to the foundations of Buddhism, Rupert Gethin concentrates on the ideas and practices which constitute the common heritage of the different traditions of Buddhism (Thervada, Tibetan, and Eastern) that exist in the world today. From the narrative of the story of the Buddha, through discussions of aspects such as textual traditions, the framework of the Four Noble Truths, the interaction between the monastic and lay ways of life, the cosmology of karma and rebirth, and the path of the bodhisattva, this book provides a stimulating introduction to Buddhism as a religion and way of life.

The Foundations of Buddhism (Opus S)

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Editorial Reviews

Review

"This is the best introduction to Indian Buddhism that I have seen. It makes extensive use of the most current scholarship."--David Carpenter, St. Joseph's University

About the Author

Rupert Gethin is co-founder of the Centre for Buddhist Studies at the University of Bristol and a specialist in Indian Buddhism.

Product details

Series: Opus S
Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: Oxford University Press; 1 edition (September 24, 1998)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0192892231
ISBN-13: 978-0192892232
Product Dimensions: 7.7 x 1 x 5.1 inches
Shipping Weight: 15.7 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
Average Customer Review: 46 customer reviews
Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #64,703 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
- #2 in Books > Textbooks > Humanities > Religious Studies > Buddhism
- #346 in Books > Politics & Social Sciences > Philosophy > Eastern > Buddhism
- #11638 in Books > Religion & Spirituality

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The Best Introduction to Buddhism for Western Academics

December 1, 2016

Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase

Though Gethin's book is now a little old, it remains the best introduction to Buddhism for Western academics. He treats all topics within and divisions of Buddhism with respect and a scholar's eye for accuracy. He respects the tradition, and even goes so far as to dispel myths perpetuated by early Western scholars of Buddhism, while still giving an academic treatment that will be intelligible and accessible to those with no background in Eastern thinking.
This book may be slightly boring for those with a firm grounding and broad knowledge base, but I found myself picking up nuances and details that had not been covered by the other books I read on the topic. This is the only book on Buddhism that I have read so far that I feel does not require a teacher or extensive background knowledge to make it clear.

0Comment One person found this helpful. Was this review helpful to you?

It was the textbook that a study group went by ...

July 30, 2016

Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase

It was the textbook that a study group went by, and I went whenever I could. It definitely opened the areas of Buddhism that I was not familiar with before and certain part about meditation is in-depth. It requires and is worth and more review, thinking, practice, etc.

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Amazon Customer

May 29, 2017

Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase

Good!

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Elizabeth A. Gibson

Excellent introduction for serious students

May 13, 2009

Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase

This book is an excellent introduction to Buddhism for serious students. In some depth, it introduces all of the main Buddhist texts and their contents and histories, and provides an overview of Buddhist thought and practice from the relatively straightforward (e.g. the Four Noble Truths and the different branches of Buddhism through history and up to the present) to the incredibly complex (e.g. Buddhist cosmology and its evolution out of the developing Hindu and other contemporary religions and sects). Excellent bib as well. Very highly recommended.

0Comment 8 people found this helpful. Was this review helpful to you?

April 23, 2007

Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase

The best introductory text I have read on Buddhism; beautifully written and very accurate as far as my ability to judge extends.

Regarding the controversy in the reviews here, people need to remember that there are more components to Buddhism than the words of the Buddha. First, the worldview in India at that time included gods, demons, hellworlds, reincarnation etc, and it would be unrealistic to expect them to not be a part of Buddhist writings. Second is the the huge religion and tradition of writing that expanded upon the words of the Buddha. In the west, we have a wide variety of those Buddhist traditions available, and we have the luxury of being able to pick one that suits us best.

0Comment 5 people found this helpful. Was this review helpful to you?

Amazon Customer Ellen

They love it, they are learning new things about Buddhism ...

October 29, 2016

Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase

I purchased this as gift for a friend. They love it, they are learning new things about Buddhism and are very happy with the gift.

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A Fine General Survey from a Knowledgeable Scholar

April 25, 2014

Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase

This book covers the waterfront, is well-written, and is very readable.
Many other reviews will go through the book in more detail, but no
matter how many other books you get on Buddhism, this may be the
best survey available.

0Comment One person found this helpful. Was this review helpful to you?

November 1, 2016

Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase

Clear, concisely written explanation of Buddhist belief...

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The best recently published book of its kind

Published 10 months ago by Sophia

Excellent product and excellent service!

Excellent product and excellent service!

Published 11 months ago by Katherine E. Morrison

Published 1 year ago by Amazon Customer

Enlightening book

Very informative

Published 1 year ago by The Anonymous

Perfect condition.

Published 1 year ago by Amazon Customer

An introductory text both broad and deep

I'm new to the study of Buddhism, but I have an academic background, and the style of this book very much addressed my learning style and needs.Read more

Published 1 year ago by Richard G. Leonberger

Best beginner's guide to Buddhism from an academic perspective.

Published 1 year ago by M. H. Lange

Well Written History and Introduction to Buddhism

This is a clear and well written book that should be read for an excellent introduction to Buddhism.

Published 1 year ago by J. Martin

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