Hinduism and Buddhism, An Historical Sketch

The first volume of Eliot's engaging and comprehensive introduction to the Eastern faiths of Hinduism and Buddhism is presented here.

Sir Charles Eliot sets out to explain and demystify the Hindu and Buddhist traditions, beliefs and cultures for a Western audience. His explanations - which are clear, readable and accessible - are derived from decades spent living in Asia and the Far East as a diplomat and administrator. Independently researching the religions of these localities was both his past time and an attempt at understanding the deep seated traditions held for thousands of years by the local peoples. 

We begin the first volume with a lengthy introduction, whereby Eliot lays out his intentions for his ambitious work. Following this, Eliot examines the earliest manifestations of faith in ancient India and Eastern Asia. The Vedic belief system in particular holds interest, while the traditions of meditation and asceticism are also examined. 

The book is logically divided into topical chapters, each of which concern specific subjects or figures significant to the Hindu or Buddhist religion, or both. Different types of faith lead Eliot to draw distinctions; the specific between Pali Buddhism for example occupy a great portion of this first volume. 

Although the title alludes only to Hinduism and Buddhism, Eliot also makes extensive allusion to Jainism and Islam. He is keen to note the fact that the spread and contest over influence of peoples to a large extent intertwine the histories of all the religions of the East. 

Hinduism and Buddhism, An Historical Sketch manages to explain and introduce two of the world's major religions in a digestible, intriguing manner. Charles Eliot's writing style rarely strays to dryness, and each chapter remains close to its stated subject. There are few examples of religious studies as embracing and well-researched as Sir Charles Eliot's, immersed as he was in the cultures of the East.