INTRODUCTION & SUMMARY

Does Pali literature offer a unique perspective on early Buddhism? Is it worthy of sustained and rigorous study?
Is there value in the Theravada Buddhist culture of South and South East Asia? Are its traditions remarkable and its adaptations to the modern world instructive?

Is it worth developing and presenting a clear, accurate and sympathetic understanding of Pali Buddhism? And then diffusing it as widely as possible?

We say ‘Yes’. That is why the Oxford Centre for Buddhist Studies (OCBS) wishes to establish an endowed Lectureship in Pali Buddhist Studies. This document outlines the context and sets out for potential supporters what we can together achieve.

Buddhist Studies is set for a major expansion in Oxford. It is vital that the Pali dimension be well represented.