This inspiring poem, though written more than a hundred years ago, retains the power to move us in a way that no prose rendering of the life of the Buddha can. We cannot but admire the courage, determination, and self-sacrifice of the Indian prince who, out of compassion, left the palace to find a remedy for the suffering of the world. Since its first publication, The Light of Asia has inspired many to learn more about Buddhism and to put its teachings into practice. Now, thanks to this new edition, Arnold’s epic poem can fire the emotions of a new generation.