Description
This scholarly volume from the renowned Buddhist Tradition series offers a meticulous exploration of the historical Buddha’s life, times, and foundational teachings. Published by Motilal Banarsidass, India’s leading authority on Buddhist studies, this hardcover edition presents rigorous academic research while remaining accessible to serious students of Buddhism. The book examines the historical and cultural context of 6th-century BCE India, traces Siddhartha Gautama’s journey from prince to enlightened teacher, and analyzes the core doctrines that shaped one of the world’s major religions. Ideal for scholars, theology students, practitioners seeking authentic sources, and anyone interested in understanding Buddhism beyond popular interpretations. The bilingual English-German text reflects international Buddhist scholarship, making it valuable for comparative religious studies. At 292 pages, it balances depth with readability, serving as both an academic reference and an engaging introduction to the Buddha’s historical reality.
- Publisher : Motilal Banarsidass; 2nd edition (1 January 2016); Motilal Banarsidass
- Language : English, German
- Hardcover : 292 pages
- ISBN-10 : 8120818172
- ISBN-13 : 978-8120818170
- Item Weight : 500 g
- Dimensions : 18.1 x 2.1 x 23 cm
- Country of Origin : India
- Importer : Motilal Banarsidass
- Packer : Motilal Banarsidass
- Generic Name : Book
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Historical Buddha book about?
The Historical Buddha explores the life, times, and teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism. This scholarly work from the Buddhist Tradition series examines historical evidence, cultural context of ancient India, and the core philosophical doctrines that emerged from the Buddha’s enlightenment and subsequent teachings.
Is this book suitable for beginners to Buddhism?
While academically rigorous, this book is accessible to serious students and practitioners. It’s ideal for those seeking scholarly depth beyond introductory texts, theology students, researchers, and readers who want to understand the historical Buddha based on authentic sources rather than popular adaptations.
Who publishes The Historical Buddha Vol 51?
The Historical Buddha is published by Motilal Banarsidass, India’s premier publisher of Buddhist, Hindu, and Indological studies since 1903. This hardcover second edition is part of their prestigious Buddhist Tradition series, recognized globally for scholarly excellence in Buddhist literature.
Why is this book in both English and German?
The bilingual English-German format reflects the international nature of Buddhist scholarship and makes the work accessible to both English-speaking Indian readers and the German academic community, which has a strong tradition in Buddhist studies. This enhances its value for comparative religious research.
Where can I buy The Historical Buddha book online in India?
You can buy The Historical Buddha online at The Bookish Owl (thebookishowl.in) for ₹595 with delivery across India. This hardcover edition (ISBN 978-8120818170) is in stock and ready to ship, offering authentic Buddhist scholarship from Motilal Banarsidass at competitive pricing.






