A Manual of Buddhism in its Modern Development

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A Manual of Buddhism in its Modern Development by R. Spence Hardy is a comprehensive exploration of the state and evolution of Buddhism during the 19th century. Drawing on his extensive experiences as a missionary in Sri Lanka, Hardy meticulously documents the teachings, practices, and institutions of Buddhism as he observed them. The book delves into the core principles of Buddhist doctrine, including the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, and examines the various sects and schools within the religion. Hardy provides detailed descriptions of rituals, monastic life, and the role of Buddhism in the daily lives of its adherents. His work is notable for its ethnographic detail and its efforts to present Buddhism from the perspective of its practitioners. Despite being written from a Western viewpoint, the book remains a valuable historical resource for understanding how Buddhism adapted and persisted in the face of colonial influence and modern challenges. Hardy's scholarly approach and his dedication to presenting an accurate picture of Buddhism in his time make this work a significant contribution to Buddhist studies and religious scholarship.

In the preparation of the present Manual, I have kept one object steadily in view. It has been my simple aim, to answer the question, "What is Bud- hism, as it is now professed by its myriads of votaries?" A deep interest in the subject; intense application; honesty of purpose; a long residence in a country where the system is professed; a daily use of the language from which I have principally translated; and constancy of intercourse with the sramana priests; have been my personal advantages to aid me in the undertaking. In nearly all other respects, the circumstances in which I have been placed have been unfavourable. Throughout the whole course of my investigations, I have had to exercise a laborious ministry; with the exception of one brief interval, I have been at a distance from any public library; I have received no assistance from any society, literary or religious, though that assistance has not been unasked; my acquaintance with the lore of Europe is limited; and I have had little or no access to recent publications on subjects of Asiatic literature.