This introduction covers the following background themes pertaining to early Buddhism: the basic characteristics of Buddhism generally, the development and spread of Buddhism as a universal religion, and India before and during the Buddha's lifetime. The life of the Buddha, and the organisation and history of the early community of disciples are discussed. The major part of the book deals with early Buddhist teaching: the human condition and liberation, human nature and composition, and human fate and freedom. In addition, Buddhist meditation, aesthetics, ethics and metaphysics, and Buddhist views on the afterlife and the nature of nirvana are outlined. The book will enable the reader to sense the aura of this ancient, noble and gentle religion.