In 'The Gospel of Buddha, Compiled from Ancient Records,' Paul Carus presents the life and teachings of Buddha through a unique framework that mirrors the structure of the New Testament. The book, published in 1894, synthesizes various parables and scriptures from Buddhist texts, translated into English, to offer a cohesive narrative. Carus carefully curates these teachings, deliberately eschewing supernatural elements, to depict Buddhism as a rational and philosophical system of thought. His literary style, characterized by clear and accessible prose, along with this innovative approach, renders 'The Gospel of Buddha' an instrumental text in bridging Eastern and Western thought within its historical literary context.
Paul Carus, a philosopher and a pioneer in the dialogue between Eastern and Western religions, was deeply interested in comparative religion and the universal truths underlying all faiths. His extensive study of Buddhist texts, coupled with his commitment to the ideals of the Enlightenment—which sought to understand the world through reason rather than blind faith—led him to create a work aimed at interpreting Buddhism through the rationalist lens. In doing so, Carus sought to illuminate the philosophical depth of Buddha's teachings and make them accessible to a Western audience, which was largely unfamiliar with Buddhist doctrine.
'The Gospel of Buddha' by Paul Carus is highly recommended for readers interested in eastern philosophy, religious studies, and interfaith dialogue. The text serves both as an introduction to the foundational aspects of Buddhism and as a comparative piece that enhances understanding of the universality of spiritual themes. Carus's editorial choices provide an insightful perspective that appeals to those seeking a philosophical rather than religious approach to Buddhist teachings. Students of comparative religion, historians of philosophy, and the intellectually curious will find this book a valuable addition to their collections.
