C. A. F. Rhys Davids

Review – Dialogues of the Buddha

By C. A. F. Rhys Davids

This review, written by C. A. F. Rhys Davids, introduces the second edition of the English translation of the Dīgha Nikāya (Dialogues of the Buddha), originally rendered by her late husband T. W.…

More about Dhyana

By C. A. F. Rhys Davids

Going Far or Going Beyond

By C. A. F. Rhys Davids

This reflective piece critiques the tendency of some scholars to reduce Buddhism to a set of moral precepts based solely on the Pali Canon. Citing Moriz Winternitz’s acknowledgement that early…

The Relations between Early Buddhism and Brahmanism

By C. A. F. Rhys Davids

This lecture addresses the complex relationship between early Buddhism and Brahmanism. It begins by noting that 'Indian religious literature' is typically equated with the Vedas, Brahmanas, Upanisads…

Sankhya and Original Buddhism

By C. A. F. Rhys Davids

The article critiques the attribution of systematic philosophy to early Buddhism and Sankhya, arguing that such frameworks emerged much later. The author contends that the Buddha’s original teaching,…

Growth of Not-Man in Buddhism

By C. A. F. Rhys Davids

The article "Growth of Not-Man in Buddhism" explores the evolution of spiritual concepts in Indian thought, particularly the shift from emphasizing the "man-in-man" (the inner spiritual self) to the…

Dhyana in Early Buddhism

By C. A. F. Rhys Davids

Dhyana in early Buddhism refers to a contemplative practice (Jhana) emphasizing focused attention and awareness, distinct from later meditation concepts. The term, derived from Pali, carries a…

Old Words and New Will

By C. A. F. Rhys Davids

The text explores the relationship between language, understanding, and human will, arguing that new words emerge as humans seek to articulate newly understood aspects of life. It suggests that…

Man And The Way

By C. A. F. Rhys Davids

Mrs. Rhys Davids reflects on the concept of "Man and the Way" in the context of Jainism, Buddhism, and broader philosophical thought. She acknowledges her limited expertise in Jainism but emphasizes…

Will in Early Buddhist Scriptures

By C. A. F. Rhys Davids

The analysis of "Will in Early Buddhist Scriptures" examines the absence of a specific term for "will" in early Buddhist texts, despite their emphasis on training the will through ethical and…