A cultural study of the Early Pali Tipitaka (Pali Canon) explores the Buddha's teachings, monastic life (Vinaya), and doctrine (Sutta/Abhidhamma) as preserved in Pali, revealing insights into ancient Indian society, daily practices, ethics, political geography, and the evolution of Buddhism before Ashoka, highlighting its oral origins, stylistic repetitions, and its role as a living text for Theravada Buddhists.

Early Pali Tipitakas: A Cultural Study, Dr.Yashpal, Kalinga Publications, Hardcover, 621 pages, $99.00

Writer and revolutionary worker Yashpal (1903�1976) was an important member of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA), a radical political group involved in India's freedom struggle. After his arrest in 1932, he famously turned --in his own word -- 'from bullet to bulletin'. This was the beginning of a long and prolific career as a novelist, short story writer, journalist and political commentator.