Buddhism is a vast & complex religious & philosophical tradition with a history that stretches over 2500 years & which is now followed by around 115 million people In this introduction to the foundations of Buddhism Rupert Gethin concentrates on the ideas & practices which constitute the common heritage of the different traditions of Buddhism (Thervada Tibetan & Eastern) which exist in the world today From the narrative of the story of the Buddha through discussions of aspects such as textual traditions the framework of the Four Noble Truths the interaction between the monastic & lay ways of life the cosmology of karma & rebirth & the path of the bodhisattva this books provides a stimulating introduction to Buddhism as a religion & way of life which will also be of interest to those who are more familiar with the subject