Buddhism stands as a major world religion, boasting approximately 500 million followers globally, with nearly 300,000 residing in the UK. Originating from the Buddha’s Enlightenment in 5th-century north India, Buddhism spread throughout Asia and has since gained traction in the West, where many embrace its lifestyle or practices like meditation.

This exploration introduces the history, philosophy, geographical spread, and practices of Buddhism, examining its modern-day relevance.

Illustrated with beautiful scrolls, manuscripts, and printed books, this book presents the idea of the ‘Middle Path’ – promoting mindfulness, compassion, tolerance, and non-violence – offering renewed relevance for the 21st-century reader.