Life of the Buddha and the Early History of His Order

Book Details:

• Publisher: Sri Satguru Publications

• Author: William Woodville Rockhill

• Language: English

• Pages: 282

• Cover: Paperback

• Dimensions: 21.5 cm x 14 cm

• Weight: 320 gm

• Edition: 2004

• ISBN: 9788170307938

About the Book:

This book offers a comprehensive and scholarly exploration of the Tibetan Dulva or Vinayapitaka, a critical section of the Tibetan Bkah-hgyur. It features substantial analysis and literal translations of texts that offer insights into the early history of Buddhism, the life of the Buddha, and the foundational doctrines that have shaped the faith. The work spans various significant historical and legendary accounts, including the Buddha’s life from his birth to his death, the history of the early Buddhist Church, and the schools of Buddhism, as well as the early histories of Tibet and Khotan.

The book is divided into several chapters that focus on different aspects of Buddhist history and teachings:

• Chapter 1: History of the world from its renovation to the reign of Cuddhodana, the Buddha’s father.

• Chapter 2: From the reign of Cuddhodana to the start of the Buddha's ministry.

• Chapter 3: The Buddha’s life from the start of his ministry until the reign of Ajatastru.

• Chapter 4: From the start of Ajatasatru’s reign to the Buddha’s death.

• Chapter 5: History of the Buddhist Church following the Buddha’s death.

• Chapter 6: History of the Buddhist schools.

• Chapter 7: Early history of Bod-Yul (Tibet).

• Chapter 8: Early history of Liyul (Khotan).

The book also contains fascinating appendices, including translations and analyses of texts related to the Six Heretical Teachers and the interaction between Mahavira (Nigantha Nataputta) and Gosala Mankhaliputta, among others.

Introduction:

The introduction offers a deep dive into the Tibetan Bkah-hgyur, a crucial collection of Buddhist scriptures, and highlights the monumental contributions of scholars like Alexander Csoma de Koros. Rockhill emphasizes the need for further analysis of these works, noting that while much has been done to bring Tibetan Buddhist literature to the forefront, there is still much to be explored. The introduction sets the stage for the following detailed chapters, providing readers with the necessary context and background to understand the significance of the texts that follow.

The book aims to offer an accessible yet rigorous examination of Tibetan Buddhist history and teachings, making it an invaluable resource for scholars and enthusiasts of Buddhist studies.