The Routledge Handbook of Indian Buddhist Philosophy

This book provides a comprehensive overview of Indian Buddhist philosophy, covering texts and themes and exploring them in depth through the contributions of a strong team of editors and international line-up of contributors.

Format: Hardback
Length: 678 pages
Publication date: 15 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book provides an incredibly thorough overview of Indian Buddhist philosophy, meticulously organised by a thinker to offer a comprehensive exploration of texts and themes. The editorial team is exceptionally strong, featuring a diverse range of editors and an international line-up of contributors. By focusing solely on Indian Buddhist philosophy, this volume allows each thinker to be explored in depth, in contrast to competing volumes that may offer a more scattered or fragmented approach.

The book begins with an introduction that provides a historical and contextual framework for understanding Indian Buddhist philosophy. It discusses the various schools of Buddhism that emerged in India and their respective contributions to the philosophical tradition. The introduction also highlights the key themes and concepts that are central to Indian Buddhist philosophy, such as the nature of reality, the path to enlightenment, and the importance of compassion and mindfulness.

The subsequent chapters are dedicated to exploring the works of key Indian Buddhist thinkers. Each chapter provides a detailed analysis of a particular thinker's ideas, highlighting their key contributions to the philosophical tradition. The chapters are also supplemented with excerpts from the thinkers' primary texts, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of their philosophical perspectives.

One of the strengths of this book is its comprehensive coverage of various topics within Indian Buddhist philosophy. The book explores the metaphysical foundations of Buddhism, including the concept of emptiness (sunyata) and the nature of consciousness. It also examines the ethical and moral principles of Buddhism, such as the Five Precepts and the Eightfold Path. The book also discusses the philosophical implications of Buddhist practices, such as meditation and mindfulness, and their role in achieving spiritual enlightenment.

Another notable aspect of this book is its attention to the historical and cultural contexts in which Indian Buddhist philosophy developed. The book discusses the influence of Indian philosophy, such as Vedanta and Jainism, on Buddhist thought and the ways in which Buddhist ideas were adapted to suit the cultural and religious contexts of different Indian societies. The book also explores the historical development of Buddhist institutions, such as monasteries and temples, and their role in promoting Buddhist teachings and practices.

In conclusion, this book provides an invaluable resource for anyone interested in exploring Indian Buddhist philosophy. Its comprehensive coverage of texts and themes, strong editorial team, and international line-up of contributors make it an essential tool for scholars and students of Buddhist studies. The book's attention to the historical and cultural contexts in which Indian Buddhist philosophy developed adds depth and richness to its analysis, making it a valuable contribution to the field.

Weight: 1460g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138492257