Explanations of Misfortune in the Buddha’s Life: The Buddha’s Misdeeds in His Former Human Lives and Their Remnants

The Buddha explained that all deeds have their consequences, even for him and even in his life as the Buddha. This book delves into the profound and multifaceted ways in which misfortune is addressed within the life and teachings of the Buddha. Author Stephan Hillyer Levitt explores how the Buddha, throughout his journey, encountered and navigated various forms of suffering, from personal loss and illness to challenges within the saṅgha.

Drawing upon primary sources and scholarly interpretations, Levitt examines how the Buddha’s own experiences with misfortune shaped his understanding of suffering, its causes, and the path to liberation. He investigates how these experiences are reflected in the Buddha’s teachings, moreover, how the events flow naturally from the vantage of everyday causality as well as from the results of kamma.

Explanations of Misfortune in the Buddha’s Life offers a unique and insightful perspective on the Buddha’s life and teachings, revealing the profound impact of suffering on his own spiritual journey and the profound wisdom he imparted to others.