Many valuable books have been written by Eastern and West-

ern scholars, Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike, to present the life and teachings of the Buddha to those who are interested in Buddhism.

Amongst them one of the most popular works is still The

Light of Asia by Sir Edwin Arnold. Many Western truth-seekers

were attracted to Buddhism by this world-famous poem.

Congratulations of Eastern and Western Buddhists are due to the learned writers on their laudable efforts to enlighten the readers on the Buddha-Dhamma.

This new treatise is another humble attempt made by a member of the Order of the Sangha, based on the Pāli Texts, commentaries, and traditions prevailing in Buddhist countries, especially in Ceylon.

The first part of the book deals with the Life of the Buddha,

thc second with the Dhamma, the Pāli term for His Doctrine.

*

The Buddha-Dhamma is a moral and philosophical system

which expounds a unique path of Enlightenment, and is not a subject to be studied from a mere academic standpoint.

The Doctrine is certainly to be studied, more to be practised,

and above all to be realized by oneself.

Mere learning is of no avail without actual practice. The learned man who does not practise the Dhamma, the Buddha says, is like a colourful flower without scent.

He who does not study the Dhamma is like a blind man. But,

he who does not practise the Dhamma is comparable to a library.

*

There are some hasty critics who denounce Buddhism as a

passive and inactive religion. This unwarranted criticism is far

vii

from the truth.

The Buddha was the first most active missionary in the world. He wandered from place to place for forty-five years preaching His doctrine to the masses and the intelligentsia. Till His last moment, He served humanity both by example and by precept. His distinguished disciples followed suit, penniless, they even travelled to distant lands to propagate the Dhamma, expecting nothing in return.

"Strive on with diligence" were the last words of the Buddha.

No emancipation or purification can be gained without per-

sonal striving. As such petitional or intercessory prayers are de- nounced in Buddhism and in their stead is meditation which leads to self-control, purification, and enlightenment. Both medi- tation and service form salient characteristics of Buddhism. In fact, all Buddhist nations grew up in the cradle of Buddhism.

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