“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever
things are honourable, whatsoever things are just,
whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely,
whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any
virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
No section of the population of India can afford to neglect her ancient
heritage. In her literature, philosophy, art, and regulated life there
is much that is worthless, much also that is distinctly unhealthy; yet
the treasures of knowledge, wisdom, and beauty which they contain are
too precious to be lost. Every citizen of India needs to use them, if
he is to be a cultured modern Indian. This is as true of the Christian,
the Muslim, the Zoroastrian as of the Hindu. But, while the heritage of
India has been largely explored by scholars, and the results of their
toil are laid out for us in their books, they cannot be said to be
really available for the ordinary man. The volumes are in most cases
expensive, and are often technical and difficult. Hence this series of
cheap books has been planned by a group of Christian men, in order that
every educated Indian, whether rich or poor, may be able to find his
way into the treasures of India’s past. Many Europeans, both in India
and elsewhere, will doubtless be glad to use the series.
The utmost care is being taken by the General Editors in selecting
writers, and in passing manuscripts for the press. To every book two
tests are rigidly applied: everything must be scholarly, and everything
must be sympathetic. The purpose is to bring the best out of the
ancient treasuries, so that it may be known, enjoyed, and used.