A History of Pali Literature (Review)
By Otto Stein
Summary
This review examines Bimala Churn Law’s two‑volume ‘A History of Pali Literature,’ published in 1933. The reviewer notes that the work systematically surveys canonical texts, commentaries, chronicles, and later Pali literature. Law divides Pali literature into canonical, commentarial, exegetical, and secular categories and analyses the historical contexts in which texts were composed. The review highlights his discussion of the dating and authorship of Pali scriptures, the evolution of Pali grammar and style, and the inclusion of lesser‑known texts from Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia. It praises Law’s use of epigraphic and manuscript evidence and critical bibliographies while also noting minor criticisms such as speculative dating and omissions. Overall, the work is deemed a comprehensive reference on Pali literature.
Conclusion
The review commends Bimala Churn Law’s ‘A History of Pali Literature’ as a landmark study cataloguing and analysing the breadth of Pali writings. Its systematic classification and historical contextualisation make it an invaluable resource for students of Buddhism, notwithstanding minor omissions and debates over dating.