Ethics In Early Buddhism - Kalupahana's balanced and brilliantly concise account is an attempt to place the early Buddhist descriptions of the world of experience, the state of freedom, and the moral principle leading to such freedom within the framework of impermanence.
The Lankavatara Sutra is one of the most important Mahayana texts, and the Napalese Buddhists consider it to be one of the nine canonical texts. The text contains almost all the main ideas, both philosophical and theological, of Mahayana Buddhism. The Yogacara School of Mahayana considers this text to be its fundamental text, as it contains all those ideas of idealism, like Mind-only, store-house-consciousness, which would form the basis of the philosophy of this school.
Buddha His Life His Doctrine His Order - This book is a translation of a German work, Buddha, Sein Leben, Seine Lehre, Sein Gemeinde, by Professor Hermann Oldenberg, of Berlin, editor of the "Pali Texts of the Vinaya Pitakam and the Dipamsa".
Discipline The Canonical Buddhism of Vinayapitaka - Discipline: The Canonical Buddhism of the Vinayapitaka is a penetrating analysis of a heretofore neglected, yet centrally important portion of the Pali Canon. In identifying the pivotal role of discipline in the bhikkhu quest for nibbana Professor Holt finds that Vinaya rules represent a practical implementation of the Buddha’s Dhamma. Specifically adherence to this monastic code theoretically facilitates an overcoming of asavas, mental dispositions that foster attachment to the “self” and thus perpetuate the process of samsaric kammic retribution. The formulation of Buddhist monastic law, therefore, need not be seen as the result of casuistry, rather, it is the consequence of a conscious attempt on the part of the early Buddhist tradition to identify behavioral expressions that once generate and reflect a calmed, detached and disciplined mental and spiritual state. The author has also examined the significance of the principal rituals of Buddhist monasticism as they are prescribed within the Vinaya text. He interprets these rites as cultic celebrations of discipline which, in turn, legitimate the Sangha’s claim to be the embodiment and reservoir of the Buddha’s teachings. The claim supported the Sangha’s role of occupying a mediating position between the spiritual needs of the laity and the authority and the spiritual exemplar of Buddhism, the Buddha. In short, Discipline, written from the perspective of the history of religious approach, contributed significantly to the increased understanding of the dynamics of the Buddhist religion in its formulative stages.
The Last Kingdom of Sinhalay - is a historical fiction novel that imagines the final days of the Sinhalese kingdom in Sri Lanka before the arrival of European colonial powers. Set against the backdrop of political intrigue, cultural shifts, and impending external threats, the novel follows the struggles of the Sinhalese rulers and their people to maintain their sovereignty and way of life. Through vivid storytelling and rich character development, the author brings to life the sights, sounds, and emotions of ancient Sri Lanka, offering readers a captivating journey into a pivotal period of the island's history. "The Last Kingdom of Sinhalay" offers a compelling blend of historical accuracy and fictional narrative, making it a must-read for fans of historical fiction and those interested in the history of Sri Lanka.
Buddhist Meditation And Nirvana - The meditations of the Buddhists were not simple reflections on abstract subjects, but trances of self-hypnotism as well, in which they tried to bring, not merely the conceptions of the mind, but also the emotions and feelings of the heart to rarefied generalizations.
Glorious Historical Antecedents Of A Cultured Civilisation : Sri Lanka - Dive into the rich tapestry of Sri Lanka's history with this captivating exploration of its glorious past. From ancient kingdoms to colonial encounters, this book unveils the intricate layers of Sri Lanka's cultural heritage, highlighting its vibrant traditions, architectural marvels, and enduring legacy. Discover the dynamic interplay of diverse influences that have shaped Sri Lanka into a bastion of civilization, fostering a deep appreciation for its remarkable journey through the ages. A must-read for history enthusiasts, cultural aficionados, and anyone intrigued by the captivating story of Sri Lanka's cultural evolution.