What do we know about Buddha today? Was he only the founder of a strange religion, who spent his life in retirement from the world and in meditation? Or was he a greater one? The book, “Buddha”, shows the figure of Buddha in a new light. As Forerunner for the Word of Truth, he works in the midst of his people, whom he wishes to lead out of an indolent submission to fate into an active faith. Past happenings come to life.

Abruptly toppled from his princely throne by a severe misfortune, Siddharta-Buddha journeys on the dusty highways of India as a despised pariah. Roused by bitter suffering, he desperately seeks the meaning of life. He finds helpers, each of whom advances him part of the way in both the earthly and spiritual sense. The one-time ruler learns to serve, thereby gaining in understanding. Thus Siddharta experiences all castes, is able to deepen his knowledge in a Brahman school, and in solitude attains to his goal: the recognition of his task, the meaning of his life.

As never before, insight is here given into the preparation and guidance of a Called One, through whom a whole people is to ascend. In visions, a great gift is bestowed on Siddharta: the knowledge of the Invisible, Eternal God, Who stands above all the "gods," the Lord of all the Worlds.

Again, Siddharta journeys on the highways, now as helper and guide to his people. Disciples and pupils gather around him; with their help, he is able to anchor the new teaching in schools, monasteries, and convents. With the spiritual upswing, the outward life of the people also improves, especially the position of the Indian woman. What Siddharta-Buddha began in pure striving, his grandson, Gautama-Buddha, continues. He is greater still in his knowledge, in his serving.

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As a protection against foreign invaders, the many, often warring principalities are to be united. How even a Called One with the best volition can nevertheless still fail and yet find forgiveness and grace in the struggle for the right attitude is impressively described.

He who experiences within him what is undoubtedly the most beautiful part of Indian history learns of the unspeakable Love and Justice which ever again bestow great helps on mankind.

273 pages, linen
Original Edition: German. Translations available in: Czech, English and French