Synopsis This book will provides a timely and insightful guide to one of the world's most vital religions, a religion that today can count more than 300 million followers.The author considers the early history of the religion, beginning with a detailed account of the life and teachings of Buddha himself. The subsequent spread of Buddhist doctrine is traced across the East from India to china and beyond, while great care is taken to explore the particular forms that the faith has taken in each context. In addition to the rich history of Buddhist beliefs and ethics are covered in some depth. The founding concepts of Annihilation, the transmigration of the soul and the pursuit of Nirvana are carefully expounded, as are the pursuit of Nirvana are carefully expounded, as are the ethical beliefs in charity, honesty and respect for family ties. This book is a volume of enduring value to those interested in comparative religion and as a work of reference for the general reader.