Reviews:
"Schmidt-Leukel has written an admirable introduction to this religion. Understanding Buddhism is balanced in its use of primary and secondary sources, it is clear without being facile and it is able to introduce an enormous subject by choosing crucial points and directing the reader to other works, if s/he wants to know more. I recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a serious, yet concise overview of the beginnings, historical developments, and contemporary challenges Buddhism faces." Journal of Contemporary Religion, May 2008

"It is the best book of its kind that I know. I would recommend it to anyone wanting a reliable introduction to Buddhism." Professor John Hick