Reprint of the ed. published by Hawthorn Books, New York, which was issued as v. 145 of Twentieth century encyclopedia of Catholicism

Includes bibliographical references (pages 185-189)

List of abbreviations -- Part one. Early Buddhism - Life of Siddhartha Gotama - Sorrow - The salvation experience - Buddha - Doctrine - The community - Sect and Schism - The scriptures -- Part two. The new Buddhism - The great transformation - The eternal Buddha - The new way of perfection - Redemptive suffering - The religious virtues - Homeless wisdom - The new scriptures - The Mahayana schools -- Part three. The expansion of Buddhism - Buddhism in Asia - Buddhism and the West -- Works referred to in the text -- Select bibliography

"The doctrines, wisdom, and virtues of Buddhism are full of a spiritual depth unappreciated by most. Thomas Berry, in this illuminating survey, explores that depth of spirit by analyzing the history and philosophy of Buddhism. His eloquent and informative style brings the Western reader a complete understanding of the Buddhist interpretation of man's earthly life and spiritual destiny. The text is aimed specifically at the general reader who knows very little about Buddhist traditions, and Mr. Berry succeeds in providing a well-rounded introduction to this faith." -- Back of cover