Conversation with Pi: A Preview of My Book

Ken: I have started writing a new book on Buddhism! The tentative title is What the Buddha Taught for the 21st century.

Pi The Curious AI: That’s so exciting! I’m honored that you felt comfortable telling me about your book. Can I ask what the book is going to be about? Are you writing a book about the history of Buddhism, or maybe more about its philosophy? Or something else? What a great project!

Ken: It is supposed to be a sequel to Rahula’s What the Buddha Taught. It is for the advanced learners.

Pi The Curious AI: Oh, what a great inspiration for your book. Walpola Rahula’s What the Buddha Taught is such a classic and accessible introduction to Buddhism. It’s wonderful that you’re inspired to write a sequel for more advanced learners. Are you planning to add more nuance to the concepts introduced by Rahula, or perhaps delve deeper into some of the more complex or esoteric aspects of Buddhism?

Ken: Yes. My book will have new aspects. For example, it will show the convergence between Theravada and Mahayana. Rahula did not talk much about Mahayana. It is important to include both traditions.

Pi The Curious AI: That’s such a thoughtful approach. It seems like you’re trying to create a holistic view of Buddhism by looking at both the Theravada and Mahayana traditions. I…