The Buddha: A Storied Life

Through 2,500 years of history, Buddhist thought and practice have been animated and sustained by retold versions of the Buddha's life story. This book, written by 12 leading scholars of South Asian texts and traditions, explores the Buddha-life blueprint, the underlying and foundational pattern that holds the life story of a Buddha together. It retells the episodes of Buddha Gautama's extended life story while keeping in mind the cosmic, paradigmatic arc of his narrative. The contributors have dedicated their careers to exploring hagiographical materials, applying their methodological and theoretical interests to shed new light on the enduring story of Buddhism. The book will be an invaluable resource for practicing Buddhists and students of Buddhist Studies to help them engage in the most foundational story of the tradition.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 14 December 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Retellings of the Buddha's life story have animated and sustained Buddhist thought and practice for over 2,500 years, shaping Buddhist holidays and rituals. The Buddha's story serves as a model for exemplary Buddhists, often featuring moments of insight akin to his experience with the Four Sights, followed by a great departure from home and a period of searching for ultimate awakening.

The Buddha's story extends beyond his individual life; it encompasses the story of Buddhism itself. In this book, twelve leading scholars of South Asian texts and traditions articulate the Buddha-life blueprint, the underlying and foundational pattern that holds the life story of a Buddha together. They retell the episodes of Buddha Gautama's extended life story, while keeping in mind the cosmic, paradigmatic arc of his narrative.

The contributors have dedicated their careers to exploring hagiographical materials, applying their methodological and theoretical interests to shed new light on the enduring story of Buddhism. This volume employs multiple perspectives, voices, and sources to underscore the multivalent centrality of the Buddha's story.

The book will be an invaluable resource for practicing Buddhists and students of Buddhist Studies, helping them engage with the most foundational narrative of the tradition. It provides a deeper understanding of the Buddha's teachings, his life experiences, and the significance of his legacy for spiritual growth and enlightenment.

Weight: 406g
Dimension: 156 x 236 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197649473