Sacred Books of the East: A Comprehensive Bibliography of Eastern Religious Texts
The Sacred Books of the East represents a monumental effort in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to translate the foundational spiritual and philosophical texts of Asia into English. Spanning 50 volumes, this collection provides a scholarly window into the diverse belief systems of the East, ranging from the Vedic traditions of India to the Confucian and Taoist philosophies of China.
This collection serves as a primary resource for historians and theologians, capturing the essence of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Zoroastrianism, and Islam through the work of renowned translators such as Max Müller and James Legge.
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Key Facts
- Total Volumes: 50 volumes, including a general index.
- Publication Era: Published between 1879 and 1910.
- Major Traditions Covered: Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, Zoroastrian (Zor), Chinese (Confucian/Taoist), and Islamic.
- Key Contributors: Max Müller, James Legge, T. W. Rhys Davids, and Georg Bühler.
- Scope: Includes canonical scriptures, law books (Dharmaśāstra), and philosophical commentaries.
Detailed Breakdown of the Collection
Hindu and Vedic Traditions
The collection heavily features Hindu texts, beginning with the Upanishads (the philosophical conclusions of the Vedas) and the Vedic Hymns. It also includes the Satapatha Brahmana, a detailed ritual text, and the Laws of Manu, which outlines social and ethical codes. The Bhagavadgîtâ and the Vedanta-Sutras, featuring commentaries by Sankaracharya and Râmânuja, provide deep insights into the nature of reality and the soul.
Buddhist and Jain Scriptures
Buddhist contributions are extensive, featuring the Dhammapada (a collection of verses) and the Sutta-Nipâta. The series covers the Vinaya Texts, which detail monastic discipline, and the Mahâyâna Texts, including the Lotus Sutra (Saddharma-Pundarika). Additionally, the Jaina Sûtras, translated from Prâkrit by Hermann Jacobi, represent the teachings of Jainism.
Chinese Philosophy: Confucianism and Taoism
The texts of China are divided primarily between Confucianism and Taoism. The Confucian section includes the Shû King (Classic of History), the Shih King (Classic of Poetry), and the Lî Kî (Book of Rites). The Taoist section focuses on the Tâo Teh King of Lâo Dze and the writings of Kwang-tze.
Zoroastrian and Islamic Texts
The collection preserves the Zend-Avesta and various Pahlavi Texts, which are central to Zoroastrianism. Furthermore, the Qur'an is presented in two parts, covering chapters I through CXIV, translated by E. H. Palmer.
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Summary of the Sacred Books of the East
| Tradition | Key Texts Included | Notable Translators | Publication Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hindu | Upanishads, Bhagavadgîtâ, Vedic Hymns, Laws of Manu | Max Müller, Georg Bühler, Julius Eggeling | 1879–1904 |
| Buddhist | Dhammapada, Vinaya Texts, Lotus Sutra | T. W. Rhys Davids, Max Müller, Samuel Beal | 1881–1894 |
| Chinese | Shû King, I Ching, Tâo Teh King | James Legge | 1879–1891 |
| Zoroastrian | Zend-Avesta, Pahlavi Texts | James Darmesteter, E. W. West | 1880–1897 |
| Islam | Qur'an (Chapters I-CXIV) | E. H. Palmer | 1880 |
| Jain | Âkârânga Sûtra, Kalpa sûtra | Hermann Jacobi | 1884–1895 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the primary editor of the Sacred Books of the East?
While many scholars contributed, Max Müller was one of the most prominent figures, translating the Upanishads and Vedic Hymns and overseeing much of the project's direction.
Which volumes cover the teachings of Confucius?
The texts of Confucianism are primarily found in volumes 3, 16, 27, and 28, translated by James Legge.
What are the Pahlavi Texts?
The Pahlavi Texts are Zoroastrian scriptures and commentaries, including works like the Bundahis and the Dâdistân-î Dinik, translated largely by E. W. West.
Does the collection include the Qur'an?
Yes, the Qur'an is included in two parts (volumes 6 and 9), translated by E. H. Palmer and published in 1880.
What is the purpose of the 50th volume?
The 50th volume serves as a General Index to the names and subject matter of the entire series, compiled by Moriz Winternitz with a preface by Arthur Anthony Macdonell.