Description
Book Synopsis: The Buddhist monk Ashva·ghosha composed Life of the Buddha in the first or second century CE probably in Ayódhya. This is the earliest surviving text of the Sanskrit literary genre called kavya and probably provided models for Kali·dasa's more famous works. The most poignant scenes on the path to his Awakening are when the young prince Siddhártha, the future Buddha, is confronted by the reality of sickness, old age, and death, while seduced by the charms of the women employed to keep him at home. A poet of the highest order, Ashva·ghosha's aim is not entertainment but instruction, presenting the Buddha's teaching as the culmination of the Brahmanical tradition. His wonderful descriptions of the bodies of courtesans are ultimately meant to show the transience of beauty.
Co-published by New York University Press and the JJC Foundation
For more on this title and other titles in the Clay Sanskrit series, please visit http://www.claysanskritlibrary.org Read more
Details
Discover the timeless wisdom of the Buddha with the Life of the Buddha (Clay Sanskrit Library, 10). Authored by the renowned Buddhist monk Ashva·ghosha, this ancient text allows you to delve into the profound teachings of the Buddha himself. As the earliest surviving text of the Sanskrit literary genre called kavya, this masterpiece has served as a source of inspiration for countless generations.
Experience the emotional journey of the young prince Siddhártha, who later became the enlightened Buddha. This remarkable narrative unravels Siddhártha's encounter with the harsh realities of sickness, old age, and death. Alongside these challenges, he finds himself captivated by the allure of temptation in the form of women employed to distract him from his path. Ashva·ghosha, a poet of the highest order, seamlessly weaves together entertainment and instruction, allowing you to connect with the Buddha's teachings on a deeper level.
Immerse yourself in the enchanting imagery painted by Ashva·ghosha, where he beautifully describes the fleeting nature of beauty displayed by the bodies of courtesans. By highlighting the transience of form, this book showcases the impermanence of worldly pleasures and sets the stage for the profound teachings of the Buddha. It serves as a poignant reminder that true happiness lies beyond the ephemeral.
Published in collaboration between New York University Press and the JJC Foundation, the Life of the Buddha (Clay Sanskrit Library, 10) is a must-read for individuals seeking spiritual enlightenment and a deeper understanding of one of history's most influential figures. Join countless others in discovering the magnificence of this literary treasure and unlock the secrets of the Buddha's teachings. For more information on this title and other captivating works in the Clay Sanskrit series, visit www.claysanskritlibrary.org now.
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