Encyclopedia of Buddhism emphasizes the living faiths and their historical and social backgrounds. In about 700 A-to-Z entries, this encyclopedia provides easy access to the theological concepts, personalities, historical events, institutions, and movements that helped shape Buddhism and the way it is practiced today. Although the primary focus of the encyclopedia is on the various forms of Buddhism, it also includes many entries on other religious practices in East and Southeast Asia, including Daoism, Shinto, and Confucianism." "A comprehensive introduction, further readings, cross-references, and a chronology, in addition to photographs, a general bibliography, and a thorough index, make Encyclopedia of Buddhism an easy-to-use and essential reference for high school and college students, researchers, and general readers. 634 Pages

Edward A. Irons is a consultant and director of the Institute for Culture, Commerce, and Religion�a research center considering cultural issues in China, particularly Hong Kong. He holds a Ph.D. from the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, California.