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The Buddhist Catechism
1915. The Life of Buddha; The Dharma or Doctrine; The Sangha; The Rise and Spread of Buddhism; Buddhism and Science; The Fourteen Propositions accepted by the Northern and Southern Buddhists as a Platform of Unity.
112 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1881
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
January 29, 2011
Written in question and answer format, similar to Catechisms of other faiths, this book covers every aspect of Buddhism. It’s been published in at least 20 languages, mainly by and for Buddhists, and is used in many Buddhist schools. I strongly recommend this book to anyone seeking a greater understanding of Buddhism.
October 13, 2014
As I knew little about Buddhism, I would say this book was a good resource. That being said, I do not agree with the religion having understood what was presented. It appears to be a religion founded on the sole urge to overcome ignorance, which in itself is good, but not logical. Not everyone is capable of that. The part I had the most issue with would be that one reaches Nirvana by reaching heightened enlightenment by basically being good, yet you can't be good on purpose otherwise it doesn't count. Reminded me of the episode of Friends where Phoebe tries to do a good deed without feeling good about it. Obviously, this was impossible.
I also know that those who are disabled are seen as presenting this upon themselves based on a previous life. Yet the book says character changes from life to life. What would a disabled person be able to do in this life to better him/herself for the next life? Having spent a lot of time around handicapped individuals, I can a) not see how anyone could "deserve" being handicapped and b) how one would earn enough credits in this life to be reincarnated as something better.
The religion is illogical in several senses. But again, I would recommend the book if you want a basic understanding of Buddhism, which this achieved whether I agree with the beliefs or not. :)
I also know that those who are disabled are seen as presenting this upon themselves based on a previous life. Yet the book says character changes from life to life. What would a disabled person be able to do in this life to better him/herself for the next life? Having spent a lot of time around handicapped individuals, I can a) not see how anyone could "deserve" being handicapped and b) how one would earn enough credits in this life to be reincarnated as something better.
The religion is illogical in several senses. But again, I would recommend the book if you want a basic understanding of Buddhism, which this achieved whether I agree with the beliefs or not. :)
January 6, 2017
Definitely a product of its time, but not actually "bad". Just different.
April 18, 2023
This was a short read - I was inspired to read more about Buddhism thanks to Pema Chödrön. This was published more than 100 years ago (can't remember the exact date), and it has some good summaries of what Buddhism is about. For one, it mentions that the correct term is the Buddha Dharma, and that it is not actually a religion but a way of thinking. I personally disagree with this point, because there is still a belief that reincarnation occurs until one attains the state of Nirvana and escapes samsara (the cycle of death and rebirth). There is also the belief in karma, where essentially everything that happens to you in this life is "just" because of what you have done in your past lives. Again, definitely a religious thought, and it requires one to be blind to the injustices people are born into through no fault of their own.
Some things I highlighted in this book:
This is also a noble way to live, but likely extremely difficult in practice. One generally loves their family or significant others more than all other people. It would be hard to remove one's attachments to those they love to become unbiased to all others.
Overall, this book helped me in the discernment of which religion to follow - Buddhism is not for me personally. The idea of karma goes against the natural way, which is the way of things happening completely by happenstance (such as evolution).
Some things I highlighted in this book:
"To cease from all evil actions, to generate all that is good, to cleanse one's mind: this is the constant advice of the Buddhas."This is a noble cause. Cleansing one's mind can be achieved through meditation, which is a practice that is helpful to many even outside of those who believe in the faith.
Is is said that the Mussalmans invaded, over-ran, and conquered large areas of India; everywhere doing their utmost to stamp our our religion......They burnt,pulled down or otherwise destroyed our viharas, slaughtered our bhikkus, and consumed with fire our religious books.This is something I was taught about as a child, because there was a large Buddhist population in my country prior to invasion. This was my first time reading about it in a book written by someone else, and I felt happy to see an acknowledgement of the hidden history of the subcontinent.
The universe was evolved, not created; and it functions according to law, not according to the caprice of any God.This definitely would rub anyone who believes in creation stories the wrong way, but the Catholic Church also accepts evolution.
Buddhists are taught to show the same tolerance, forbearance, and brotherly love to all men, without distinction; and an unanswering kindness towards the members of the animal kingdom.
This is also a noble way to live, but likely extremely difficult in practice. One generally loves their family or significant others more than all other people. It would be hard to remove one's attachments to those they love to become unbiased to all others.
Overall, this book helped me in the discernment of which religion to follow - Buddhism is not for me personally. The idea of karma goes against the natural way, which is the way of things happening completely by happenstance (such as evolution).
November 16, 2023
As someone with only a vague idea of Buddhism, I found this book to be quite informative. It gives you a very broad idea about the basic tenets in Buddhism. The question and answer format adopted by the author was apt for the content. Rather than simply translating the different Buddhist teachings, the author summarizes and paraphrases them in a rather nice way.
For example:
For example:
"Q. What striking contrasts are there between Buddhism and what may be properly called "religions"?
A. Among others, these: It teaches the highest goodness without a creating God; a continuity of life without adhering to the superstitious and selfish doctrine of an eternal, metaphysical soul-substance that goes out of the body; a happiness without an objective heaven; a method of salvation without a vicarious Saviour; redemption by oneself as the Redeemer, and without rites, prayers, penances, priests or intercessory saints; and a summum bonum, i.e., Nirvāna, attainable in this life and in this world by leading a pure, unselfish life of wisdom and of compassion to all beings"
December 23, 2021
Though more than 140 years old and written by a man with an unorthodox understanding of science (taking the study of auras of legitimate for example), this short book was still quite useful for those wishing to know in plain and simple terms what Buddhists believe. Olcott, whose extensive work with the Buddhist community in Sri Lanka gives his writing credence, lays out a series questions and answers that presents the history of the Buddha, his doctrine, how a Buddhist order is meant to function and a concise version of its spread in the Asian continent. Acknowledging the differing strands of Buddhism that now exist, he presents the reader a consensus view of what all the communities can agree on, leaving the theological differences out of the work. The end result is a concise, immensely clear and well-presented summary of the core of Buddhist belief.
July 15, 2017
As someone who has only briefly brushed the topic of Buddhism (Karma & Reincarnation) this little ebook answered a lot of questions and fleshed out some the things I only knew a little about.
Presented in question and answer style with several introductions included and an appendix this is a handy little book for those of us wanted to know more about Buddhism. I found it informative, but I believe this is made for more of an introduction or primer to Buddhism as there are several aspects that could have been delved into further.
If you are like me and want to know more about Buddhism, for curiosity's sake or maybe you're looking at it as a new religion, this would be a good place to start.
Presented in question and answer style with several introductions included and an appendix this is a handy little book for those of us wanted to know more about Buddhism. I found it informative, but I believe this is made for more of an introduction or primer to Buddhism as there are several aspects that could have been delved into further.
If you are like me and want to know more about Buddhism, for curiosity's sake or maybe you're looking at it as a new religion, this would be a good place to start.
June 21, 2023
This was a helpful primer on Buddhism, although it had some very strange ideas about what science was, what science must teach, and overall presentation. I'm used to the pretty masterfully done "Westminster Shorter Catechism." It differs in that it has a short and linear progression, where this is somewhat linear and not very short. I think it's far better than most Buddhist introductions, however - Buddhism tries to be very very fine in its moral distinctions for the purpose of mastering the self and self-examination. That makes things usually very very long and multifaceted, where the unity in all of it is lost.
Part of the problem seems to simply be Buddhism, but Olcott's Theosophical ways unfortunately come through.
Part of the problem seems to simply be Buddhism, but Olcott's Theosophical ways unfortunately come through.
January 20, 2021
This book is good for some one interested to know about Buddhism. It is written in a question and answers format in simple English which anyone can understand but the usage of the terms in Pali language was quite a challenge to read it. I would not recommend this book to everyone or to know about the life of Buddha. This book is purely based on Buddhism teachings as the title clearly states Buddhist Catechism.
February 3, 2021
It was “enlightening” to find out what Buddhist believe and I was shocked to see so much talk about magic and hypnotism and ghosts and a lot of occult subjects. People should read this to know what is really going on. Quite shocked how nonchalant and normalised quite far out things were stated as matter of fact truths. But then again I can imagine an alien coming to earth would also be shocked to see people going to a sports event or something that the mainstream culture deems “normal”
October 13, 2017
Parts are in a q&a format about the historical Buddha, his doctrine (includes Bodhisattva), covers Sangha , spread of and its connection with science. Short answers so short explanations of complex issues. More of a review for those who know tenants of Buddhism. From early 20th century.
December 27, 2019
Good resource.
January 28, 2021
More in-depth about the life of Buddha than other reviews suggest.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2024
Great book, I listened to the audiobook version on YouTube. I will leave he link below so that everyone can enjoy it! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ziR7N...
September 15, 2024
This one was a little less enjoyable to read, unfortunately. If I didn't have a fair idea about Buddhism I'd have been very confused, so I don't recommend it as an introduction to the religion.
August 28, 2025
The book is short and has an unusual question-and-answer format.
March 25, 2012
I don't have a lot of praise for Olcott's Catechism other than to say that i will consider its 14 "universally"-agreed-upon ideas to be a fair base upon which to build my understanding of the religion as a whole. If, like me, you are a Buddhistic ignoramus[1], then go ahead and read at least the first two sections of this little book. It is conveniently, refreshingly—but frequently awkwardly—written in the classic catechismal Q&A format.
"The Life of the Buddha" and "The Dharma or Doctrine" impressed me as most clearly satisfying my (verboten!) desires. The former provides documented facts about Siddhartha Gautama as well as what i'll cynically dub enlightening and dogmatically enjoyable anecdotes. The latter section contains what i consider the "meat and potatoes" of Buddhism and also of the 14 fundamental beliefs that were "accepted by the Northern and Southern Buddhists as a Platform of Unity."[2]
Section three, "The Sangha," surprised me with plenty of valuable, interesting content but suffered from missed opportunities to educate non-believers and/or novices, for example with definitions of non-English words and explanations of building-block concepts. Olcott was probably so deep along the path into the ideological forest that he couldn't see or remember some of the bodhi trees at its beginning. By enlisting critical but sympathetic non-believers and/or novices (i.e., folks just now peeking into the forest), he might've identified and filled some of these info gaps.
Blessedly shorter sections on "The Rise and Spread of Buddhism" (can someone explain why this is in a Catechism?) and "Buddhism and Science" finish out the main body before the "Appendix," which contains the 14 propositions. You might consider reading the Appendix first and then circling back to the first section.
This book also might be of interest to historians of philosophy, social groups, and religions, especially as a document of the way turn-of-the-century Western intellectuals responded to "Eastern mysticisms."[3]
Last of all, and certainly least important, the inevitable nitpick. The freebie Kindle eBook was sloppily edited. ("Shocking!" right?) Only a few mistakes were mentally jarring, though. The majority simply resulted from inattentive proofing. A print edition—if any such exists a century later—might contain fewer typos.
____________
[1] Everything i "knew" of the Buddha i "learned" from the statue in my Nana's curio cabinet, which is a longwinded, indirect way of saying "nothing."
[2] The distinctions between the various "styles" of Buddhism are described in adequate detail for beginners like me in Smith & Novak's Buddhism: A Concise Introduction, which i read at the same time. I think that Olcott's "Northern" and "Southern" are equivalent to today's "Mahayana" and "Theravada," respectively. (don't quote me on that)
[3] My thought spiral on this topic = Olcott (and others?) personally urged "authoritative committees" (i.e., desired signatories) to consider the 14 tenets as basic/fundamental propositions, presumably as part of some kind of ecumenical program. I expect that he/they hoped to strengthen Buddhism through its unification: "A house divided..." and "Together we stand..." and all that, y'know. I infer similarly that Olcott et al wanted to prove the scientific basis and validity of Buddhism's beliefs in order to increase its appeal to the pool of modern truth seekers in thrall to the great advancements via the scientific method. I further conclude (my notions naturally becoming more tenuous with each step) that even reducing the appearance of divisions within Buddhism were expected to increase Buddhism's appeal and bolster any claims to its scientific validity.
But i have presumed enough. Too much? Let the historians and true textual analysts have at it.
"The Life of the Buddha" and "The Dharma or Doctrine" impressed me as most clearly satisfying my (verboten!) desires. The former provides documented facts about Siddhartha Gautama as well as what i'll cynically dub enlightening and dogmatically enjoyable anecdotes. The latter section contains what i consider the "meat and potatoes" of Buddhism and also of the 14 fundamental beliefs that were "accepted by the Northern and Southern Buddhists as a Platform of Unity."[2]
Section three, "The Sangha," surprised me with plenty of valuable, interesting content but suffered from missed opportunities to educate non-believers and/or novices, for example with definitions of non-English words and explanations of building-block concepts. Olcott was probably so deep along the path into the ideological forest that he couldn't see or remember some of the bodhi trees at its beginning. By enlisting critical but sympathetic non-believers and/or novices (i.e., folks just now peeking into the forest), he might've identified and filled some of these info gaps.
Blessedly shorter sections on "The Rise and Spread of Buddhism" (can someone explain why this is in a Catechism?) and "Buddhism and Science" finish out the main body before the "Appendix," which contains the 14 propositions. You might consider reading the Appendix first and then circling back to the first section.
This book also might be of interest to historians of philosophy, social groups, and religions, especially as a document of the way turn-of-the-century Western intellectuals responded to "Eastern mysticisms."[3]
Last of all, and certainly least important, the inevitable nitpick. The freebie Kindle eBook was sloppily edited. ("Shocking!" right?) Only a few mistakes were mentally jarring, though. The majority simply resulted from inattentive proofing. A print edition—if any such exists a century later—might contain fewer typos.
____________
[1] Everything i "knew" of the Buddha i "learned" from the statue in my Nana's curio cabinet, which is a longwinded, indirect way of saying "nothing."
[2] The distinctions between the various "styles" of Buddhism are described in adequate detail for beginners like me in Smith & Novak's Buddhism: A Concise Introduction, which i read at the same time. I think that Olcott's "Northern" and "Southern" are equivalent to today's "Mahayana" and "Theravada," respectively. (don't quote me on that)
[3] My thought spiral on this topic = Olcott (and others?) personally urged "authoritative committees" (i.e., desired signatories) to consider the 14 tenets as basic/fundamental propositions, presumably as part of some kind of ecumenical program. I expect that he/they hoped to strengthen Buddhism through its unification: "A house divided..." and "Together we stand..." and all that, y'know. I infer similarly that Olcott et al wanted to prove the scientific basis and validity of Buddhism's beliefs in order to increase its appeal to the pool of modern truth seekers in thrall to the great advancements via the scientific method. I further conclude (my notions naturally becoming more tenuous with each step) that even reducing the appearance of divisions within Buddhism were expected to increase Buddhism's appeal and bolster any claims to its scientific validity.
But i have presumed enough. Too much? Let the historians and true textual analysts have at it.
January 4, 2018
Does not cover in-depth any topic concerning the man who was the buddha nor his teaching. Rather, in bullet points Col. Olcott, over a century ago yet contextually relevant and to the point, briefs the reader on the fundamental tenets of Theravada tradition of the Dhamma.
It is ideal for anyone who wishes to have a simple yet broad understanding of the Buddha Dhamma in under 2 hours. But I suggest anyone take 4 and contemplate and reflect upon the text rather than take it at face value.
And to reiterate the good Colonel's words, there is no Buddhism for it is not a religion but a moral philosophy. Being a Buddhist only entail that you critique everything until you understand it via personal experience and reflection. Sounds much like the scientific method, don't you think?
It is ideal for anyone who wishes to have a simple yet broad understanding of the Buddha Dhamma in under 2 hours. But I suggest anyone take 4 and contemplate and reflect upon the text rather than take it at face value.
And to reiterate the good Colonel's words, there is no Buddhism for it is not a religion but a moral philosophy. Being a Buddhist only entail that you critique everything until you understand it via personal experience and reflection. Sounds much like the scientific method, don't you think?
December 26, 2013
From a non-Buddhist: This is a great introduction to Buddhist philosophy. I now have elemental understandings of some phrases and names that have emerged from Buddhism. I can see why some people find similarities within Hinduism and Christianity, among other religions. Though I have not studied Indian languages and it gave me pause at every name and phrase in Indian, I was still able to follow the ideas and concepts presented. It is also a short read, available free on the Kindle.
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December 31, 2014The Buddhist Catechism, revised by H. C. Olcott, are answers to questions that would be asked by someone who knows nothing about Buddhism. It is interesting and teaches the reader many things about this religion. It is interesting to read the things Buddhists believe in and what they worship. The Buddhist Catechism would interest anyone wanting to learn more about religions of the world.
December 10, 2014
A little heavy on history and terminology, but that's to be expected in such a text. Thoroughly reinforced my impression of Buddhism, including my discomfort with the perspectives on sexuality and on mystical things (like people emitting light, or the existence of things like demons).
May 11, 2015
Excellent
I highly recommend this book as having answered many of my beginner questions. A very good description of Buddhism and the people involved in compiling the work at the time 1891.
I highly recommend this book as having answered many of my beginner questions. A very good description of Buddhism and the people involved in compiling the work at the time 1891.
March 7, 2011
This is a very nicely-done summary of basic Buddhism done in a question-and-answer format. I would recommend this as a starting point for those who would like to begin studying Buddhism.
May 21, 2013
Good introduction to understand Buddhist thought and history. An easy read, clear and concisely written.
June 7, 2013
Not as helpful as I had hoped in understanding the basic tenants of Buddhism.
June 24, 2013
pretty good introduction for Buddhism. interesting for those who would not know about this practice. it does need more interpretation though for the culture language.
June 25, 2013
Succinct.
July 17, 2013
One man's take on Buddhist beliefs, leaning heavily on mythology and told in spectacularly boring fashion.
April 18, 2014
A very nice intro to Buddhism for folks who are seriously interested in getting into Buddhism. Offers great perspective and context.
May 14, 2014
Good
A nice approach for understanding Buddhism, although in my opinion there's a lack of definitions for people who's not really into the philosophy.
A nice approach for understanding Buddhism, although in my opinion there's a lack of definitions for people who's not really into the philosophy.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews