Description
This authoritative three-volume set presents Eugene Watson Burlingame’s meticulously translated Dhammapada Commentary, drawn directly from ancient Pali texts. A cornerstone for anyone serious about understanding Buddhist philosophy, these volumes preserve the scholarly rigor and spiritual depth of early Buddhist teachings. Whether you’re a philosophy student, practitioner, or researcher, you’ll find these commentaries invaluable for contextualizing the 423 verses of the Dhammapada—the Buddha’s essential ethical and wisdom teachings. The Motilal Banarsidass edition (2nd edition, 2015) remains one of the most trusted English-language references available to Indian readers. Ideal for personal study, academic research, or spiritual deepening.
- Publisher : Motilal Banarsidass Publishers; 2nd edition (1 January 2015)
- Language : English
- Hardcover : 1097 pages
- ISBN-10 : 8120820738
- ISBN-13 : 978-8120820739
- Item Weight : 500 g
- Dimensions : 24.2 x 0.3 x 18.6 cm
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the complete Dhammapada Commentary translation by Burlingame?
Yes, this three-volume set contains the full, authoritative translation of the Dhammapada Commentary from the original Pali text by Eugene Watson Burlingame. It’s the most comprehensive English rendering available and includes all verses with detailed commentary explaining Buddhist philosophy and ethics.
Who is Eugene Watson Burlingame and why is his translation important?
Burlingame was a renowned Pali scholar and Buddhist studies pioneer who conducted extensive research in Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia. His translation is considered the gold standard for English-language students of early Buddhism because of his deep knowledge of Pali grammar and Buddhist philosophy. His work has influenced generations of scholars.
What is the Dhammapada and why should I read the commentary?
The Dhammapada is a core Buddhist text containing 423 verses of the Buddha’s teachings on ethics, wisdom, and the path to liberation. Burlingame’s commentary unpacks the context, stories, and deeper meanings behind each verse, making it invaluable for anyone wanting to move beyond surface-level understanding of Buddhist thought.
Is this book suitable for beginners or only advanced scholars?
While this is a scholarly work, it’s accessible to serious beginners with interest in Buddhist philosophy. If you’re new to Buddhism, you might start with a simpler Dhammapada translation first, then use this set as your deeper reference. It’s perfect for university students, meditation practitioners, and researchers.
What’s the difference between this 2nd edition (2015) and earlier editions?
The 2015 Motilal Banarsidass edition is the most recent reprint, offering improved typography and binding quality while maintaining Burlingame’s original translation. This hardcover format ensures durability for repeated study and reference use.
