The grandeur, simplicity, and freshness of the 2,500-year-old tradition of Buddhism are reflected in this collection of writings intended as a primer for newcomers to the subject as well as a reference for those familiar with Buddhism. The selections include:    *  The story of the Buddha's life.    *  A concise historical background.    *  Key writings of Theravada, Mahayana, Zen, and Tibetan Buddhism.    *  Meditation instructions.    *  A Buddhist explanation of reincarnation.    *  Simple explanations of terms.    *  A pictorial survey of Buddhist art and architecture.