by Thomas William Rhys Davids
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Thomas William Rhys Davids (1843–1922) was a British scholar and a key figure in the field of Buddhist studies and Pali language studies. He made significant contributions to the understanding of Buddhism and its early texts, particularly through his work on Pali literature and his translations of important Buddhist texts.
Born on May 12, 1843, in Colchester, England. He was educated at the University of Cambridge and pursued studies in classical languages and literature. Rhys Davids developed an interest in Buddhism and its early texts during his time at Cambridge. He was particularly drawn to the Pali language, which is one of the oldest recorded languages in which Buddhist scriptures were written. In 1881, Rhys Davids co-founded the Pali Text Society along with his wife, Caroline Augusta Foley Rhys Davids. This society aimed to preserve, edit, and translate the Pali Canon, the foundational scriptures of Theravada Buddhism. The society played a crucial role in making Pali texts accessible to a wider audience.
Rhys Davids is often credited with helping to establish the academic study of Buddhism in the West. He focused on analyzing Buddhist doctrines and practices from a historical and comparative perspective.
T. W. Rhys Davids continued his scholarly work and contributions to Buddhist studies throughout his life. He passed away on December 27, 1922. His legacy includes his foundational work in translating Pali texts and his role in establishing the field of Buddhist studies in the West.
This new edition is dedicated to George Nguyen, dedicated sponsor of a host of books about Buddhism.
Westphalia Press 