Thoughts, Literature and Monasteries in Earlier Buddhism

What were the Teachings of Buddha ? Ever since the death of Buddha, this has been the of repeated problem among many earnest Buddhist adherents. It does not admit of a ready or an easy solution. However, nothing daunted, they are still carrying on their studies and investigations in order to arrive at a definite answer.
First, it is claimed that Agamas or Nikayas are the most ancient Scriptures of Buddhism containing the genuine Teachings of Buddha.
Secondly, most of the Mahayan literature is believed to contain the really sacred canonical books of Buddhism containing the Thoughts of Buddha. Supporters of this view are severely critical of Agamas or Nikayas and are opposed to the claim made for them.
Thirdly, the several Buddhist sects that have sprung up in India, China and Japan claim that they have been successful in their investigations about pure Buddhism and that they are its true exponents.
Fourthly and lastly, most of the modern scholars in both the hemispheres are confident that they have elucidated Buddha’s Teachings by their careful and accurate textual criticism of the works containing His Teachings.
It is thus evident that the question, what were the Teachings of Buddha? has been agitating the minds of the followers of Lord Buddha and critics of His Teachings ever since His Mahaparinirvana.
The author endeavours to unveil the genuine Teachings of Buddha in this book. The book, written originally in Japanese, remains the finest exposition in presenting the Teachings and Philosophy of Buddhism.