Buddhism today is one of the fastest-growing faiths in North America. The reasons can be found here, in this comprehensive introduction to the history, practices, and beliefs of a religion that seeks the Middle Way between self-denying spirituality and the demands of everyday life.

Introduction     6
    Origins and Historical Development     12
    Extract and Commentary     24
    Aspects of the Divine     26
    Extract and Commentary     34
    Sacred Tests     36
    Extract and Commentary     44
    Sacred Persons     46
    Extract and Commentary     54
    Ethical Principles     56
    Extract and Commentary     62
    Sacred Space     64
    Extract and Commentary     74
    Sacred Time     76
    Extract and Commentary     84
    Death and the Afterlife     86
    Extract and Commentary     94
    Society and Religion     96
    Extract and Commentary     104
    Glossary     106
    General Bibliography     107
    Index     108
    Acknowledgments and Picture Credits     112