Edwin Arnold Knihy

The book showcases the life and teachings of the Buddha through an epic poem narrated by an "imaginary Buddhist votary." Written in a richly crafted Tennysonian blank verse, it reflects Sir Edwin Arnold's deep engagement with Eastern philosophy and spirituality. While his subsequent works on Islam and Christianity, Pearls of the Faith and The Light of the World, did not achieve the same acclaim, they further illustrate his exploration of faith and religion. Arnold's poetic style and thematic focus on enlightenment make this work a significant contribution to spiritual literature.

Volume II contains the following numbers from the renowned Wheel Publication series dealing with various aspects of the Buddha's teaching.

Focusing on the core teachings and philosophy of Buddhism, this classic text delves into the life of the Buddha, the Four Noble Truths, and the Eightfold Path. The author offers clear explanations of essential concepts, supported by various Buddhist scriptures and commentaries. Additionally, historical and cultural contexts enrich the reader's understanding of Buddhism's development. This insightful exploration serves as an excellent introduction for those seeking to grasp the essence of this ancient and influential religion.

Exploring themes of love, divinity, and cultural heritage, this collection features a series of poetic sargas centered around Krishna's life and adventures, including his trials and union with Radha. Alongside these narratives, the anthology presents miscellaneous Oriental poems that reflect diverse aspects of Indian and Middle Eastern culture, such as the Rajpoot Wife and King Saladin. The work also includes wisdom from the Hitopadesa, enriching the reader's understanding of philosophical and moral insights from these traditions.

The discourse between Arjuna, a prince, and Krishna, the Supreme Being, explores profound philosophical and spiritual themes central to the Mahâbhârata. This classic text has been significant throughout history. Alpha Editions has republished it in a modern format, ensuring its clarity and readability by reformatting and retyping the original work, rather than relying on scanned copies. This effort aims to preserve the text for both present and future generations, highlighting its enduring relevance.

The 1861 English translation by Sir Edwin Arnold presents the Hitopadeśa, a classic Indian text featuring fables that blend animal and human characters. This collection imparts maxims and worldly wisdom, offering guidance on political matters through accessible language. Although the text is thought to date back to the 12th century, its origins likely trace to Narayana between 800 and 950 CE. The oldest known manuscript, found in Nepal, dates to the 14th century, linking its content and style to the ancient Panchatantra.

The book features an epic poem by Sir Edwin Arnold that explores the life and teachings of the Buddha through the perspective of an imagined Buddhist follower. Written in a rich, Tennysonian style, it stands out for its deep spiritual insights and poetic form. Arnold, who was also a journalist, attempted to convey the essence of Buddhism in a way that resonates with readers, making this work a significant contribution to religious literature. His later works on Islam and Christianity, while noteworthy, did not achieve the same level of acclaim.