Sariputta: The Buddha's Chief Disciple Foremost in Wisdom

Abstract

-This book review aims to analyze and evaluate the book entitled "Sariputta: The Buddha's Chief Disciple Foremost in Wisdom" authored by Natthan Saengchai (2nd edition, 2016). The book articulates the biography and Dhamma teachings of the Buddha's right-hand chief disciple through a harmonious blend of narrative storytelling and doctrinal exposition. Organized into six chapters, the content chronicles his family background, his friendship with Kolita, his attainment of the deathless state through Ven. Assaji's stanza, his accumulation of past merits and perfections, his pivotal role as the Captain of the Dhamma (Dhamma-senapati), his profound teacher-disciple relationship with the Buddha, the systematic compilation of the Dasuttara Sutta (Dhamma categories 1–10), and his final attainment of Parinirvana at his birthplace. The distinctive strength of this book lies in its coherent and seamless narrative connected with the social context of the Buddha's time, the accessible presentation of Dhamma principles through practical life events, and the systematic organization of teachings. Conversely, the shortcomings include a lack of comparative analysis with other prominent disciplines, a superficial explanation of the Dasuttara Sutta that lacks practical application for modern life, and a deficiency in rigorous academic analysis of ancient Indian socio-cultural dynamics. Overall, this book is highly recommended for general readers and introductory-to-intermediate students of Buddhist studies as an inspiring exemplar for self-development in wisdom and morality.