Walpola Rahula Libri

A classic introductory book to Buddhism, What the Buddha Taught contains a selection of illustrative texts from the original Pali texts, including the Suttas & the Dhammapada. The author, himself a Buddhist monk & scholar, removes a number of common misconceptions about Buddhism, & provides a comprehensive, compact, lucid & faithful account of the Buddha’s teachings that persistently enjoys great popularity in colleges, universities & theological schools both here & abroad. “For years," says the Journal of the Buddhist Society, "the newcomer to Buddhism has lacked a simple & reliable introduction to the complexities of the subject. Dr Rahula’s What the Buddha Taught fills the need as only could be done by one having a firm grasp of the vast material to be sifted. It is a model of what a book should be that is addressed first of all to ‘the educated & intelligent reader.' Authoritative & clear, logical & sober, this study is as comprehensive as it is masterly."

The role of the Buddhist monk is vividly explored, highlighting their service to the community as both followers and teachers of core Buddhist principles. The author, a respected monk and scholar trained in Sri Lanka, presents Buddhism as a practical guide for everyday life and spiritual growth, rather than merely a monastic practice. This pioneering work complements the author's previous influential writings, making it an essential resource for those seeking to understand the practical applications of Buddhism.