The Buddhist Catechism (book)

The Buddhist Catechism presents basic Buddhist teachings compiled from the sacred writings of the southern Buddhists, in the form of questions and answers.

Publication history

On April 22, 1881, Col. Olcott sailed for Ceylon (Sri Lanka) mainly for the purpose of raising an Educational Fund to start schools. During the voyage he compiled the catechism, which was finished on May 5. The book was published on July 24 both in English and Sinhalese, with the financial support of Mrs. Ilangakoon of Mâtara. The two first editions were rapidly sold and before the end of August a third one became necessary.

The book is still in use in Sri Lanka and has been translated into twenty languages and 44 editions.