THE BUDDHIST FORUM VOLUME III 1991–1993

Abstract

The present volume of the Buddhist Forum series is dedicated to Professor David Seyfort Ruegg in appreciation of his monumental contribution to Oriental scholarship. The majority of articles included in this volume represent contributions especially written in honour of David Ruegg. The authors of the several papers presented at the Buddhists Forum during the academic year 1991–1992, on learning that this volume is to be dedicated to Professor Ruegg, were delighted to join in. I should add that many other scholars initially offered to contribute but subsequently had to withdraw for various compelling reasons. Thus the present collection of articles is like a cluster of flowers placed before Professor Ruegg as a token of spontaneous and deep appreciation of his lasting contribution to Oriental Studies as a whole and in particular to Indological, Buddhist and Tibetan Studies. It is an appreciation not connected with his birthday or any other event of his life but rather specifically aiming to mark timelessly the high esteem and respect of the academic world for Professor Ruegg’s scholarly performance and output during his academic career. Professor Ruegg’s academic life has been punctuated with both prestigious university appointments and outstanding scholarly publications. He has held university post at different universities in Europe and the United States. At the present we arc fortunate to have him at SOAS as Professorial Research Associate to share with us his knowledge and expertise. I was able to secure a complete list of his publications, but I was not fortunate enough to be able to compile a biographical sketch. While a full account of his personal and academic life remains to be compiled, his published works, glowing with insight and exemplary scholarship, remain accessible to anyone who wishes to read and study them. I would like to express my gratitude to all the contributors for their cooperation and especially patience while this volume was in the process of preparation for publication. I also apologise for the editorial and other shortcomings. Words of gratitude are also due to the School of Oriental and African Studies for agreeing to publish this volume.