This incisive new biography charts not only the life of the Buddha in historical terms, but also considers what
the life of Siddharta Gautama means to Buddhism as a whole. The art, rituals, beliefs, mythologies and practices
of all the Buddhist schools are placed into a new light in this exceptionally authoritative and relevant account
of the founder of Buddhism. Using charts, tables and a straightforward approach, this reconstruction of the true
meaning and original life of the Buddha, as Buddhists see it, will prove a useful and interesting introduction
for all those interested in this area.
A holistic approach to the life of the Buddha, concentrating not only the historical aspects, but also on its
cultural and spiritual relevance;
Covers all the different schools of Buddhism and their different versions of the Buddha's life