The Light of Asia

A noble effort in the attempt to bring Buddhist thought into western minds of the 19th century. A lovely tome.

This book is a masterpiece written by Edwin Arnold, viewed through an "Asian's" perspective. He writes this book with a poetic and beautifully descriptive language portraying the life and times of Buddha, which stimulates your mind's imagination. His ability to capture the views of Asian thought and the story of Buddha's life is wonderful. This is a book to read slowly, and with a relaxed state of mind, to fully enjoy and absorb the impact of Arnold's writing. A great book for anyone who wants to expand their literary boundaries.

It is a narration of the Life and Teachings of Buddha written by divine inspiration by Edwin Arnold. Rev Angarica the founder of Mahabodhi Society was deeply inspired by this book whereafter he took the Buddhist Robes. I have read the book several times and propose to read it many more times. Each reading elevates you some what. Any one who wants the book for free may contact me [email protected].

I find it so sad that so few people have read or reviewed this masterpiece. I'm sorry to say it, but if it was on Christianity or the life of Christ the response would have been very different and this kind of writing would have been equated with the likes of "Paradise Lost." I am not a Buddhist, but I was deeply moved by the power and beauty of "Light of Asia." It follows the life of the Buddha, who was born in Dambadiva, India about 2500 years ago, to the royal family, but left the comforts of his life and all worldly possessions to persue the meaning of life; and gives us a vibrant picture of this great teacher and his teachings, rendered in beautiful verse. An excellent way to find out more about Buddhism.

This is indeed a beautiful poem. I recommend it to anyone wanting to learn about the origins of Buddhism. The Light of Asia is Guaranteed to give the reader light. The actual reading is like a wonderful journey, unvieling a mystery but not explaining it. It left me with a very peaceful sense. Note: I came by this book when a girlfriend's grandmother passed away. It is the original hardbound edition containing dated notations by her grandmother in 1897. They were going to throw it away and not a person in the family wanted it. I will cherish this book forever.