A Buddhist Bible

Dwight Goddard's 'A Buddhist Bible' is a profound and comprehensive collection of Buddhist scriptures that provide insight into the teachings of Buddha. The book includes writings from various Buddhist traditions, offering readers a diverse selection of texts that cover topics such as ethics, meditation, and the nature of reality. Goddard's translation and commentary help readers navigate through the complex teachings, making this book accessible to both beginners and advanced practitioners. The literary style is clear and engaging, making it an essential read for anyone interested in delving deeper into the foundational texts of Buddhism. Dwight Goddard, a respected scholar of Asian religions, was deeply influenced by his study and practice of Buddhism. His passion for spreading the wisdom of Buddhism led him to compile this seminal work, which has since become a classic in Buddhist literature. Goddard's expertise and dedication to the subject shine through in the meticulous translation and commentary found in 'A Buddhist Bible'. I highly recommend 'A Buddhist Bible' to anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Buddhist philosophy and teachings. This book serves as an invaluable resource for both scholars and practitioners looking to immerse themselves in the rich tradition of Buddhist thought.

Dwight Goddard (1861–1939) was an early influential figure in the dissemination of Buddhism in the United States. A pioneer in the American Zen Buddhist movement, Goddard's journey to Buddhism was precipitated by an extensive professional career as an engineer, which he eventually abandoned in pursuit of spiritual understanding. His quest led him first to Christian contemplative traditions and ultimately to the study of Buddhism. Goddard became most renowned for compiling and editing 'A Buddhist Bible' (1932), which was one of the first anthologies of Buddhist texts available to a Western audience. His work was seminal in introducing key concepts of Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism to American readers. The anthology contains a diverse range of Buddhist scriptures and documents, carefully selected to capture the essence of Buddhist philosophy and practice. Goddard's editorial approach was unique for its time, combining a scholarly interest in Buddhism with a practical, accessible presentation. He sought to bridge the cultural gap by providing interpretive context for these texts, thus rendering them meaningful to a contemporary readership unfamiliar with Buddhist thought. His work has influenced notable figures such as D.T. Suzuki in spreading Buddhist ideas in the West. Goddard's contributions to the popularization of Buddhism in America are commemorated by his legacy as a critical intermediary who opened the doors to cross-cultural spiritual explorations.