Buddhism has many varied forms which are now present in the West and which are growing in their variety as Buddhism adapts to its growing global presence and new cultural environments. Today Buddhism is a tradition influenced by its passage throughout Asia and now by its entry into Europe, Australasia and North America. Drawing on varied sources to evoke the spirit of Buddhism and to allow Buddhists to speak for themselves, this title examines the historical journey of the religion, focusing on the value of Buddhism in the contemporary world and the persistent relevance of its teachings. It explores: the Buddha and his teachings; the diversity of Buddhism; Buddhist values and practices; and its recent changes and new directions.

Table of Contents

Introduction; 1. Buddhists and Buddhism; 2. The life of the Buddha; 3. The Buddha's teaching; 4. Buddhist scriptures and schools; 5. Meditation and devotion; 6. Ethical conduct; 7. Moral issues; 8. The social order; 9. Festivals and ceremonies; 10. Buddhism today: East and West; 11. Transition, adaptation and influence: prospects for Buddhism in the twenty-first century; Taking it further: reading, addresses and websites; Glossary; Index

Author Biography

Clive Erricker has been teaching in religious education and the study of religions for thirty years. He is a specialist in World Religions and, in particular, in Buddhism. He is joint editor of the International Journal of Children's Spirituality and co-director of the Children and Worldviews Project. He has been Chair of the Shap Working Party for World Religions in Education and the Meditation in Education Network.