84000:Translating The Words Of The Buddha

84000: Translating the Words of the Buddha is a nonprofit global initiative to translate the words of the Buddha and make them available to everyone. It is said that the Buddha taught more than 84,000 methods to attain true peace and freedom from suffering. Of these teachings, only 5% have been translated into modern languages. Due to the rapid decline in knowledge of classical languages and in the number of qualified scholars, we are in danger of losing this cultural heritage and spiritual legacy. 84000’s primary focus is the Tibetan texts included in the Kangyur and Tengyur (the translation of canonical texts from Pali and Chinese being the province of other organisations). Our main efforts are focused on the commissioning of translations of these texts, particularly those that have not yet been translated. In the initial phase of the project, the emphasis is on translation into English. Other modern languages, including Chinese, will be included when resources are available. Translations are made according to broad, consensual guidelines. Where possible, the translations are aimed at an educated but non-specialist readership, providing the clear and comprehensive detail required by both scholars and practitioners. Brief introductions, notes, bibliographies, glossaries and other reference material are included with each text. After expert review, the translations are published in the online reading room, free of charge. The online reading room database provides access to 84000’s translations as they become available, and will reference other existing translations.