The Buddhist Literature of Ancient Gandhara: An Introduction with Selected Translations (Classics of Indian Buddhism)

A felicitous combination of intro/commentary on the various selected texts, followed by sample translations, which brings the texts and contexts alive. Very well written. Super helpful in gaining an initial understanding this early phase of Buddhism. Consistent discussion on dating of the texts would have been helpful (the dating is discussed in a couple of cases).

Very readable scholarly work, highly recommend

This book is an overview of the fascinating work that has been done over decades by a team of scholars, led by the author, on recovering and deciphering the most ancient Buddhist texts to have been discovered to date--fragile birch-bark and palm leaf manuscripts buried in jars 1900-2200 years ago in what is now NW Pakistan and N Afghanistan. Salomon discusses the history and culture of the area where these texts originated--ancient Gandhara, a prosperous and multi-ethnic kingdom centered in present day Peshawar, the Indian vernacular they were written in, and its unique script (Karoshti). The book shows us the immense challenges faced by the researchers in deciphering and literally piecing together these texts, most of them in fragmentary condition, reminiscent of the Cairo Genizah and the Dead Sea scrolls. We are given annotated translations of a variety of these texts, dating from a period of Buddhism before the development of the Mahayana-Hinayana distinction. They range from moral maxims, homilies, and lives of the Buddhas, to more technical/philosophical subjects. Any student of Buddhism and its history should find this book extremely interesting.

A very good book about Buddhism in general with new discoveries that could change how we look at Buddhism in general. A must read for anyone who is really into Buddhism and get more insight into its history and literature.

A scholarly but thoroughly readable compilation of the earliest surviving Buddhist texts, opening a window on a heretofore obscure culture. Should provoke a revival of interest in the cosmopolitan Gandharan period.

Inspired by the exquisite Gandharan Buddhist sculptures at the San Francisco Asian Art Museum, I delved into "The Buddhist Literature of Ancient Gandhara" by Richard Saloman. The book masterfully intertwines archaeology, Buddhist philosophy, and the challenges of translating ancient texts.In the photo, you'll see two remarkable statues:- Seated Buddha, 200–300: An image of the preaching Buddha in a full lotus position on a throne, with two figures below in reverence.- Standing Buddha, 200-350: Originally with a reassuring gesture, this sculpture was likely placed in a Buddhist shrine or religious structure.Immerse yourself in the history and beauty of these sculptures by visiting the museum and exploring the rich narrative of Gandharan Buddhism with this book.

Convenient collection of the highlights of the oldest texts in Buddhism. Absorbing literary, historical, and philosophical portion of the still-hazy picture of Historic Buddhism. F

From the book:The Perfection of Wisdom literature lies at the heart of Mahāyāna Buddhism and is usually thought of as constituting the earliest manifestation of Mahāyāna or, more strictly speaking, of the several streams of thought that eventually coalesced into the classical Mahāyāna. The primacy of the Perfection of Wisdom doctrine and texts is strongly supported by the newly discovered Gāndhārī material.Richard, Salomon. Buddhist Literature of Ancient Gandhara: 5359-5365). Kindle

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