Description

Ambedkar’s The Buddha and His Dhamma is one of the most important works on Buddhism, and this book presents a scholarly edition of it. It was published posthumously and lacked scholarly apparatus such as citations and bibliographies. References to Buddhist scripture and other texts that served as inspiration for Ambedkar is sprinkled throughout this edition. In addition, there are explanations of the scriptures, criticisms of Ambedkar’s interpretations, and changes to his sources. As a result, the book focuses on Ambedkar’s interpretation of Buddhism and its potential for Dalit liberation and uplift. A series of anecdotes and narratives describe the life of Buddha and the spread of his Dhamma in India through Ambedkar’s reflections and interpretations. Furthermore, the book provides an in-depth examination of the Dhamma’s fundamental principles, canons, and traditions. Ambedkar’s interpretation of Buddha’s dhamma was also addressed through an examination of his citations and the inclusion of sources that were not included in his citations or references. Ambedkar’s alterations to his sources are also considered