Buddha: His Life and His Teaching

by Walter Henry Nelson

More than twenty-five hundred years ago, an Indian prince achieved enlightenment and became “the Awakened One.” However extraordinary Prince Siddhartha Gautama was, he was no divinity, but a self-perfected human being who brought a sweeping message to mankind. Walter Henry Nelson, a respected historical scholar and author, offers readers a distinctly accessible and authoritative biography of the Buddha and his teachings. In this essential, gripping, and inspiring introduction for the general reader, Buddha explores ancient legends surrounding Buddhism’s founder. It shows how the simple story and profound struggle of Price Siddhartha, who died five hundred years before the birth of Christ, were transformed into one of the world’s great religions. From tales of Gautama’s struggle to parables of the intervention of gods in his journey, Nelson takes readers through the historical existence and ideals at the heart of a religion and philosophy that searches beyond materialism for the true aim of life.

Genres: Nonfiction, Philosophy, Biography, Asia, Buddhism, Religion, Spirituality

208 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2000

Reviews

[Upom · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well written introduction to the life of Buddha and the deep philosophy and religion he found. Nelson's reads much like an enjoyable folk tale, and really discussed Siddhartha Gautama's youth in detail. The book also takes a unique clinical approach by looking at Buddhism as a philosophy as opposed to a religion, which really appealed to my more rationalist tendencies. All in all, the best introduction to Buddhism I have read.

[Alyssa Scott · Rating 2 out of 5]

The book is okay. The writing is mediocre, and it completely lacks any kind of critical view, both in regards to the fantastical and unbelievable mythology surrounding the Buddhas early life, so it leaves you wondering what is fact and what is fiction, and regarding the Buddha's misogynistic views towards women as part of the monastic order. That plus the author's refusal to use gender neutral terms makes this book subtly hostile to a female reader.

[Nathalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Une excellente introduction au bouddhisme.

[Kim Anson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Was a well written book.

[Jayesh Shah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful biography of Siddhartha Gautam. The book explains origin of Buddhism. It gives a detailed history of the life of Buddha. Thoroughly enjoyable book.

[Little Timmy · Rating 3 out of 5]

An excellent basic book on the teachings of the Buddha. A great starter book. Recommended