The grandeur, simplicity, and freshness of the 2,500-year-old tradition of Buddhism are reflected in this collection of writings intended as a primer for newcomers to the subject as well as a reference for those familiar with Buddhism. The selections include: The story of the Buddha's life. A concise historical background. Key writings of Theravada, Mahayana, Zen, and Tibetan Buddhism. Meditation instructions. A Buddhist explanation of reincarnation. Simple explanations of terms. A pictorial survey of Buddhist art and architecture.