This book gives a comprehensive account of the history of the various Buddhist synods (councils) which were held from time to time ever since the time of Buddha through the present century, due to the changing nature of the ideological, philosophical and practical foundation of Buddhism, so well laid by Lord Buddha himself in the 6th century B.C.

The phenomenal and radial changes that crept into the realm of the Buddhist creed necessitated a very critical appraisal in order to keep the pristine teachings of Lord Buddha glorious and unblemished. Thus, in order to have a closer and integrated examination of such trends and for settling the aberrations, various synods were convened by the Buddhist clergy which provided, democratically, the most cogent prescription for all the ills whatsoever.

However, before delving into the history of synods, the book scans, in bold relief, the multi-dimensional and fascinating life-sketch of Siddhartha Gautama - the Buddha - in a most detailed manner.

The book will be of much interest to the students, researchers and general readers of the history of Buddhism as they will find the details of the various aspects of the several Buddhist synods, held, apart from India, in Ceylon, Thailand and Burma, spanning a period of more than 2500 years in a single volume.

Dr. Amarnath Thakur (b. 1958) received his graduation degree from L.N. Mithila University. Darbhanga (Bihar) and post-graduation and M.Phill from University of Delhi. After a successful completion of his research study as a Research Fellow of the I.C.H.R., New Delhi, he was awarded Ph.D. from Delhi University in 1988.

Presently, a Research Associate of the University Grants Commission (UGC), New Delhi, Dr. Thakur is engaged in post-doctoral research work and teaching in the Department of Buddhist Studies, University and research papers in many national and International seminars, symposiums and conferences. Member of various academic and learned bodies, Dr. Thakur has also visited many West European countries on a fellowship awarded to him by the International Religious Foundation, New York.