Buddhism is a major spiritual and ethical force in the world today--and certainly one of the fastest growing religions in the West. Its compelling insights into human existence offer an ancient and radical alternative to the materialism of the modern age. More and more people are turning to Buddhism to rediscover the human and the spiritual values they find lacking in traditional Western religions. Now, in this strikingly illustrated and authoritative volume, general readers have an illuminating introduction of one of the world's great living faiths. Based on the most recent scholarship, Buddhism provides a vibrantly written and marvelously illustrated overview of this ancient and yet still vital religion. Each chapter is written by an acknowledged authority in the field. The book describes the origins and historic development of Buddhism as well as current trends. Perhaps most important, it explores the central, unifying principles of a religious and philosophical system that finds expression in an extraordinary diversity of forms, from the elaborate and esoteric rituals of Tantric Buddhism to the rarefied, minimalist refinement of Zen. A major section is devoted to an analysis of the religion's more important sacred writings. And throughout the book, magnificent illustrations capture the sacred art, architecture, daily practices, and symbols inspired by the Buddha and his teaching. Buddhism in the United States has grown dramatically. Buddhism: The Illustrated Guide offers a wealth of reference information that will deepen one's understanding and appreciation of this ancient Eastern faith.

Includes bibliographical references (p. 240-243) and index.

Ancient India: belief and society / Todd T. Lewis -- The career of Siddhartha / Kevin Trainor -- A new Community / Todd T. Lewis -- The human condition / Todd T. Lewis -- The "four noble truths" / Todd T. Lewis --The path of the Buddha / Todd T. Lewis -- Mental cultivation / Mark L. Blum -- The Buddhist community / John Peacock -- Buddhism in practice / Kevin Trainor -- Theravada Buddhism / Kevin Trainor -- Mahayana Buddhism / Mark L. Blum -- Chang and Zen, the way of meditation / Mark L. Blum -- Tantra / Todd T. Lewis -- Assembling the Dharma / Mark L. Blum -- The three baskets / Kevin Trainor -- Mahayana scriptures / Mark L. Blum -- The expanding community / David Chappell -- Society and the Sangha / David Chappell.