An Introduction to the doctrine of Theravada Buddhism for those who have no previous knowledge. The four noble Truths - suffering - the origin of suffering - the cessation of suffering - and the way leading to the end of suffering - are explained as a philosophy and a practical guide which can be followed in today's world.The author has a deep authoritative background and has already had several books on the Abhidhamma (higher teaching) published. This book explains the Buddhist doctrine in a straightforward manner but does not shy away from the 'depth, subtlety and difficulty' of the original teaching. Contains 50 quotations from the original Pali texts.