Synopses & Reviews
Synopsis
One of the best-known and best-loved works of Buddhist literature, the Dhammapada forms part of the oldest surviving body of Buddhist writings, and is traditionally regarded as the authentic teachings of the Buddha himself, spoken by him in his lifetime, and memorized and handed on by his followers after his death. A collection of simple verses gathered in themes such as 'awareness', 'fools' and 'old age', the Dhammapada is accessible, instructional and mind-clearing, with lessons in each verse to give ethical advice and to remind the listener of the transience of life.
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Synopsis
The Dhammapada is a collection of aphorisms that illustrate the moral teachings of Buddha - the spiritual path to the supreme Truth. Probably compiled in the third century BCE, the verses are arranged according to theme, covering ideas such as self-possession, good and evil, watchfulness and endurance. Together they describe how an individual can attain the enlightenment of Nirvana, the supreme goal of Buddhism. The road to Nirvana, as illustrated in The Dhammapada, is narrow and difficult to negotiate, but the reward of eternal life gives hope and determination to the traveller.
About the Author
Juan Mascaró taught at Oxford University, Parameshvara College at Jaffna, the University of Barcelona, and Cambridge University. He also translated The Dhammapada and The Upanishads for Penguin Classics. He died in 1987.
Table of Contents
The Dhammapada Introduction
The Dhammapada
1. Contrary Ways
2. Watchfulness
3. The Mind
4. The Flowers of Life
5. The Fool
6. The Wise Man
7. Infinite Freedom
8. Better than a Thousand
9. Good and Evil
10. Life
11. Beyond Life
12. Self-Possession
13. Arise! Watch
14. The Buddha
15. Joy
16. Transient Pleasures
17. Forsake Anger
18. Hasten and Strive
19. Righteousness
20. The Path
21. Wakefulness
22. In Darkness
23. Endurance
24. Cravings
25. The Monk
26. The Brahmin