The light of Asia : the life and teaching of Gautama, prince of India and founder of Buddhism /
Sir Edwin Arnold.
- viii, 154 pages, 18 cm.
G autama Siddhartha (620-543BC) was a noted reformer, religious teacher, and founder of Buddhism. His sublime teachings on the attainment of perfect enlightenment through the defeat of hatred, greed, and delusion continue to influence countless millions of followers throughout the world.
The Light of Asia reveals the perfect purity and tenderness behind the Buddha's doctrines. Discounting ritual, even when on the threshold of nirvana, he professed to be only what all other people can become. Narrated by an imaginary Indian Buddhist, the poem offers universal hope and a firm faith in final good, and is one of the most profound assertions of human freedom.
Sir Edwin Arnold (1832-1904), poet and journalist, was principal of the Poona College, Bombay Presidency, from 1856 to 1861. A frequent traveller and prodigious translator of oriental works, his interpretation of The Light of Asia is considered by many to be the high point of his poetical work. - Back cover.