Product Description
Buddhism is a vast and complex religious and philosophical tradition with a history that stretches over 2,500 years, and which is now followed by around 115 million people. In this introduction to the foundations of Buddhism, Rupert Gethin concentrates on the ideas and practices which constitute the common heritage of the different traditions of Buddhism (Thervada, Tibetan, and Eastern) that exist in the world today. From the narrative of the story of the Buddha, through discussions of aspects such as textual traditions, the framework of the Four Noble Truths, the interaction between the monastic and lay ways of life, the cosmology of karma and rebirth, and the path of the bodhisattva, this book provides a stimulating introduction to Buddhism as a religion and way of life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

excellent
very informative. it can take you from "knowing a little about buddhism" to feeling like you have a very good handle on the whole of buddhist thought! he covers soooooooooo much and even some things i've never heard before about the multi-verse and buddhist cosmos. he covers original buddhist history and thought as well as beliefs developed later specific to certain parts of the world throughout history. seriously inclusive and impressive. get it, read it!

Best in its class, IMHO
--Just a brief five-star vote for this wonderful book.
--The author has been President of the venerable Pali Text Society, among the most significant Buddhist organizations in the West (the Society did most of the "heavy lifting" for the English translations of the classical Pali texts, the language used by early practitioners and scholars in the Theravada tradition).
--Other reviewers have adequately highlighted the values of this text. It's an excellent overall introduction.The author's background is most valuable for classical Buddhism, but he provides a solid foundation for understanding later Buddhism. A superb and credible viewpoint and a superb choice for an introduction to Buddhist thought.

Excellent introduction for serious students
This book is an excellent introduction to Buddhism for serious students. In some depth, it introduces all of the main Buddhist texts and their contents and histories, and provides an overview of Buddhist thought and practice from the relatively straightforward (e.g. the Four Noble Truths and the different branches of Buddhism through history and up to the present) to the incredibly complex (e.g. Buddhist cosmology and its evolution out of the developing Hindu and other contemporary religions and sects). Excellent bib as well. Very highly recommended.

Best Academic Introduction to Buddhism
I teach an upper division high school seminar on Buddhist philosophy, and this is my "go to book." Gethin writes with clarity, and covers topics with a degree of thoroughness substatively beyond general introduction books, but not with such detail that the reader becomes lost in nuances and/or rarified academic language.Be clear though that this is an ACADEMIC TEXT; if you are just new to Buddhism and curious, or if you are interested more in personal meditation and/or spiritual practice, this would be the wrong choice. However, if you are already a student of Buddhism and want to ground yourself more in the ideas, history and developed philsophies of the religion, this is the best text on the market (that I've found).Thank you Rupert Gethin!

great intro to Buddhist thought
I found this to be a fascinating general history of Buddhist thought, very dense with information and insights.(And I mean dense - this is not an "Idiot's Guide to..." by any means.) I am looking forward to reading it again in the near future.

P.S. Contrary to the (very puzzling) one-star review below, this book hardly has "page after page listing date after date"; it focuses on ideas, not events, and for a work of history lists very few dates at all. I have to conclude that the reviewer has not actually read the book and is criticizing it for reasons best known to himself. ... Read more

Product Description

Bestselling author and renowned Zen teacher Steve Hagen penetrates the most essential and enduring questions at the heart of the Buddha's teachings: How can we see the world in each moment, rather than merely as what we think, hope, or fear it is? How can we base our actions on reality, rather than on the longing and loathing of our hearts and minds? How can we live lives that are wise, compassionate, and in tune with reality? And how can we separate the wisdom of Buddhism from the cultural trappings and misconceptions that have come to be associated with it?

Customer Reviews (22)

Not for Everyone, but yes for me
Just got this book recently, recommended by a fellow traveler on spiritual path.

It's indeed a tough read, some has mentioned repetition, some mentioned lecturing style, and many others.

Personally, I just found that this book is definitely not for everyone. It can be helpful if you're at a stage where it's the right time to read it.

As old saying goes: the Teacher will appear when Student is ready.

Repetition? Isn't it the same thing all great Masters expounded over and over again to his/her student? Be it Zen Master, Taiji Master, they all use a certain 'door' to help the students go through themselves. If a style doesn't apply to one, find another .. but for me, personally, at this point of my own self struggle, this book helps A LOT!

Someone talks about lack of the discussion about 'Compassion'. Well if anyone see around, 'Compassion' is on holiday, none to be found next to us. Each of us has individual and self centered motive. However, if one is able to see Reality, the 'Wisdom' is there. If this Wisdom is not carried out, there will be no active 'Compassion'. I don't think one can exist without the other. I remember one snippet of previous Lama Yeshe incarnation who demonstrated big compassion, but also wisdom, where fought off a railway station thief.

So, at the end, each reader should decide if the book suits them or not. To me, at this point of my life, it is.
(Therefore 4 star, not 5, given 5 should be a book applicable to many, and not 3, given 3 is average only).

I'd like to thank my fellow traveler who recommended this to me ;)

Life Is Not What We Think!
"Buddhism Is Not What You Think" has become one of my most beloved books and I found it coincidentally while googling a story I had heard about two statues that often sit outside Buddhist temples in Japan that are called the the Guardians of Truth. Steve Hagen begins Chapter One with that very story. These figures represent the paradox in our search for truth - so often we want to say THIS is the truth.Then immediately we limit our experience and put it in a box.Additionally we search for truth outside ourselves - as if someone or something else has our answers.

Hagen's instructions and guidance on working with our humanity are simple yet powerful. After twenty years on my own very eclectic spiritual path, I appreciate Hagen's approach. It is both inspiring and practical. One of my favorite quotes from the book is: "There's nothing to prove, nothing to figure out, nothing to get, nothing to understand. When we finally stop explaining everything to ourselves, we may discover that in silence, complete understanding was here all along." Ahhhh, freedom.Thank you Steve!

Clarity
This book is incredible. It is often difficult to get an accurate description of what Buddhism is in the Western world due to Western bias, and once one has moved through that, the next hurdle is Eastern bias. Steve Hagen shows the barest, most basic tenants of Buddhism without the cloud of confusion and mystery that accompanies most religious traditions, ex. prayer. If you think you know what Buddhism teaches because it was explained to you buy a non-Buddhist, you're probably mistaken. Thanks to Steve, now I can recognize what is and is not "Buddhism."

Freedom Beyond What You Think
Zen priest Steve Hagen presents teachings which penetrate the most essential and enduring questions at the heart of the Buddha's teachings, including: How can we see the world each moment, rather than merely as what we think, hope, or fear it is?
-- Find freedom beyond what you think -- it is rewarding.

Great book, very Zen -- but where's the heart?
This book, like Hagen's /Buddhism Plain and Simple/ is very clean, logical, and aimed squarely at stripping away the delusions we all have that keep us from being spiritually and emotionally free. As others have mentioned, it does "hammer away" at repetitive points to drive home the simplicity of what Hagen is trying to wake you up to. The book is overall very insightful, and a few chapters are EXTREMELY jolting and eye-opening in my view; for example, the "Ice Forming in Fire" chapter really hit me hard, and I've come back to it many times.

But while /Buddhism Is Not.../ has a very simple and liberating perspective to offer you, I feel that it's worth pointing out two things: First, as another reviewer said, this book does have some odd and unpractical examples to try and drive its points home. Things that should be and could be illustrated in practical ways applicable to our everyday life end up being developed in abstract "what if" scenarios that don't help *me* very much.

Second, and more important, this book seems to lack what I think is a fundamental part of Buddhism: compassion. It is briefly mentioned in the book at a few points, but only in passing as a kind of "this stuff will come along later by itself." That is not helpful, and the lack of any significant understanding of *where* and *how* compassion will develop could do more harm than good. If you strictly adhere to the cool, rational logic Hagen gives you, you may end up with what Lama Surya Das calls a "hardening of the heartwaves." You may be more liberated in some ways, but at the cost of the happiness and peace of mind of others around you. In the end, that will come back to you as all deeds eventually must.

So, read this book. There is a lot to discover... But as with any spiritual idea or teaching, do not blindly obey or use it as a club to beat "less enlightened" people over the head with. Remember: "If it's wise, but lacks compassion, it is not love. If it is compassionate, but not wise, it is not love." This book can show you some wisdom, but you have to warm it up a bit with some TLC of your own. ... Read more

Product Description

Beginning in the nineteenth century and continuing to the present day, both practitioners and admirers of Buddhism have proclaimed its compatibility with science. In Buddhism and Science, Donald S. Lopez Jr. explores how and why these two seemingly disparate modes of understanding the inner and outer universe have been so persistently linked. He argues that by presenting an ancient Asian tradition as compatible with—and even anticipating—scientific discoveries, European enthusiasts and Asian elites have sidestepped debates on the relevance of religion in the modern world that began in the nineteenth century and that still flare today. As new discoveries continue to reshape our understanding of mind and matter, Buddhism and Science will be indispensable reading for those fascinated by religion, science, and their often vexed relation.

            “In Buddhism and Science, Donald Lopez fills a major gap, and he does so with his trademark rigor, concision, and élan. No serious student of science-and-religion can afford to skip this book.”—Jack Miles, general editor, Norton Anthology of World Religions

Customer Reviews (5)

A swift kick in the Dharma
Buddhism and Science should be on every Buddhist's reading list, especially those who quote the Kalama Sutta.

The book is not about experiments and doctrinal categories of metaphysics, but the history of Buddhism as it intersects the West, transmuting into a "rational" religion, sometimes not even a religion at all but a philosophy, a method of inquiry into the natural laws of the universe.A scientific religion.

Even if you know very little about Buddhism, you may have seen a paraphrase of the Buddha's words from the Kalama Sutta printed on a t-shirt, or posted on a friend's webpage.I was presented with a copy screened on a refrigerator magnet.

[Believe nothing just because a wise person said it. Believe nothing just because everyone else does. Believe nothing just because it is said in ancient books. Believe nothing just because it is said to be of divine origin. Believe only what you yourself test and judge to be true.]

This is an example of what Donald Lopez might call Victorian Buddhism, the religion as presented to the world by 19th century European Sanskrit scholars.Previously what was known of Buddhism amounted to scattered fragments, stories brought back by traders and adventurers from the lands east of India, tales of gods and religious practices that when compared began to look suspiciously similar.Using manuscripts sent back from British India and Nepal, philologists provided the first glimpse of the foundational teachings of Buddhism.

What these scholars thought they found was something unique, a religion that conformed to their own prejudices, a religion confirming the intellect over the emotions, empiricism over revelation, reason over superstition.They uncovered a Buddhism that had no major conflicts with the discoveries of science, which could in fact be seen as predicting those discoveries, an infinite atomistic universe operating on natural laws and requiring no first agent.

In many Asian countries the view was quite different. Modernizers saw Buddhism as a drag on development, a superstitious anachronism whose continued existence could be traced to clerical corruption and low levels of public education.A few forward thinking clergymen, though, saw in this westernized version of Buddhism a means of protecting traditional culture, of inoculating against the spread of Christianity and westernization.If Buddhism were more rational and scientific than Christianity, there would not only be no need to change or get rid of the old religion, Buddhism could be used as a tool to mobilize the masses for national development.At the 1893 Chicago World's Parliament of Religions, the Japanese and Sri Lankan delegates expounded to their mostly western audience on the rational, scientific aspects of Buddhism, feeding back to the west it's European version of Buddhism.

In the years since, as our ideas of science and the universe have changed, proponents of scientific Buddhism have kept pace, finding parallels in psychology, cognitive science, and quantum physics. Is it possible, Lopez asks, that an Iron Age mendicant was able to foresee such discoveries?Or is it perhaps that we are witnessing the latest manifestation of Buddhist adaptation? As it accommodated Taoism and Confucianism in China, as with Bon in Tibet, and Shintoism in Japan, Buddhism is perhaps now undergoing an adaptation to the ethics and ethos of scientific materialism.

If so, what do we stand to loose in the process?

Lopez hints at this with a closing quote from the Buddha, one that runs counter to the idea propounded by modern interpreters of the Kalama Sutta.Perhaps the one thing missing from Lopez' book is a chapter on this very topic, an essay on the Buddhism being left behind.This is otherwise one of the most interesting and challenging books on Buddhism that I have yet come across.Readers might like to supplement the historical details with another excellent volume, Charles Allen's The Buddha and the Sahibs, the story of the European archeological discovery of Buddhism.

[Sariputta ... should anyone say of me: 'The recluse Gotama does not have any superhuman states, any distinction in knowledge and vision worthy of the noble ones.The recluse Gotama teaches a Dhamma [merely] hammered out by reasoning, following his own line of inquiry as it occurs to him' - unless he abandons that assertion and that state of mind and relinquishes that view, then as [surely as if he had been] carried off and put there he will wind up in hell. - Mahasihanada Sutta (The Greater Discourse on the Lion's Roar), MN12]

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Generally quite informative, yet sometimes disappointing
Lopez does a solid job of backgrounding the century-plus of dialogue between Buddhists attempting to put their best foot forward to the West, along with some Western acolytes, and purveyors of Western science. (That said, other books cover this part of Lopez's acreage in more detail.)

From the historic overview, Lopez then looks at some specific Buddhist issues, such as meditation, or the idea of whether we can talk about a "science of Buddhism."

He does a good job of presenting Buddhist beliefs and texts in all of this, and explaining where the Buddhist approach comes from.

That said, contrary to claims that he is so academic that, like a Bart Ehrman, he in no way acts as an apologist for Buddhism, he indirectly does exactly that. And, that's where this book gets disappointing.

The dialogue or discourse Lopez presents is actually more of a monologue. Even when science gets to speak for itself, in the last and shortest chapter, on meditation. And, this is part of the book's disappointment.

Reading reviews on this site, I was hoping for more critical analysis of Buddhism's claims to be scientific, such as the Dalai Lama claiming Buddhism and science are totally compatible even as he holds onto beliefs in karma, reincarnation and other matters metaphysical and says he will never surrender those belies. Sure, Lopez tells us this is what the Dalai Lama has said, but, that's it.

Also, I do NOT like the consistent capitalization of the word "Science." To me, it seems like Lopez is implying it is itself a religion.

So, this is a very good book about how Buddhism does -- or, even more, about how Buddhism **wants to** -- interact with science. Except briefly in the meditation chapter, we are given little comment on the other side of the discourse.

Much is lost in the claim that the Buddha anticipated Einstein
"Buddhism and Science" is on the ROROTOKO list of cutting-edge intellectual nonfiction. Professor Lopez's book interview ran here as cover feature on March 13, 2009.

A Necessary Corrective
This book illustrates how Buddhism has religious elements that are IRRECONCILABLE with science. [If you have iTunes, look up "Saturday Morning Physics," and you can see a lecture on "Buddhism and Science" by Donald Lopez which is not quite a condensation, but perhaps an introduction to this book].

When I first saw this book, I just assumed that it would be about how Buddhism and science are complementary, since most similarly titled books are. If you're a practicing Buddhist, or have a beginning interest in Buddhism, I'm not sure whether to recommend this book or not, because Lopez is to Buddhism what Bart D. Ehrman is to Christianity, i.e. Lopez has a purely academic interest in Buddhism, and is the opposite of an evangelist; whether intentionally or not, he discourages belief in Buddhism. What he says is technically true, but if you're a Buddhist, this book is painful to read. On the plus side (counter-intuitively, perhaps), this book has pushed me to an openness to the more "supernatural" aspects of Buddhism.

In this book, Lopez looks at representative Buddhists from the past hundred or so years who attempted to reconcile Buddhism with science: Anagarika Dharmapala (1864-1933, Sri Lanka), Taixu (1890-1947, China), Shaku Soen (1859-1919, Japan), Gendun Chopel (1903-1951, Tibet), and the Dalai Lama (b. 1935, Tibet).

In the first chapter, Lopez points out that, in Buddhist cosmology, there is a mountain in the center of the world/universe, Mount Meru. Each of the aforementioned Buddhists attempt to reconcile this belief with science. Dharmapala, for instance, "refutes" the Newtonian view as being incorrect. Taixu attempts to reinterpret Mount Meru as a metaphor. Also in this chapter, the fact that the Buddha claimed the world was flat also poses problems for the aforementioned Buddhists.

In the second chapter, "Scientific Racism" enters the picture. If you're familiar with the history of science, you'll know that Darwin's idea of natural selection and competition between races, for almost a hundred years, was interpreted as justifying racism, so much so that scientists claimed that non-whites were inherently inferior. This dovetails into an idea that is prevalent in 19th and early 20th century academia that, early in India's history, it had been invaded by a race calling themselves Aryans, and since Sanskrit is part of the Indo-European language family, Europeans therefore saw the Buddha as being, in a very real sense, racially equal. So, for example, Taixu in 1937 writes a letter to Hitler that, since the Germans are Aryans, they should adopt a religion founded by an Aryan: Buddhism. Now, Lopez notes that Taixu was very likely unaware of Hitler's agenda, and I agree that Taixu innocently bought into the then current "scientific" thinking.

I won't summarize the whole book, but you get the gist of what Lopez is getting at. Science is subject to revision, and so any claims of being in sync with science are going to be provisional and shifting.

In a footnote on page 235, Lopez quotes Hermann Oldenberg: "But any one who attempts to describe Buddha's labours must, out of love for truth, resolutely combat the notion that the Buddha [was attempting the] reformation of national life." That phrase "out of love for truth" I think is applicable to Lopez, I believe that it is his impetus for writing this book. Lopez once described his anthology "Buddhism in Practice" as being "a necessary corrective," and I think that too is applicable here.

I agree and disagree with Lopez's conclusions. Lopez doesn't go back far enough in history to mention that, when Buddhism entered China, for instance, it lost elements and gained elements: Buddhist missionaries omitted offensive concepts, and aspects of Indian tradition that were congenial to Chinese tastes were emphasized; influenced by Taoism, nature became an important concept in Chinese Buddhism as it never had been in India; Chinese social values emphasized family, so the bodhisattva Vimalakirti, for example, became a model of a sage who maintained his loyalty to the family while pursuing the path of the Buddha. Is the influence of science on Buddhism less valid than the influence of Taoism and Chinese culture on Buddhism?

At the same time, I am against scientism, i.e. the view that natural science has authority over all other interpretations of life, such as philosophical, religious, mythical, spiritual, or humanistic explanations. There are some questions that science hasn't figured out yet, and maybe those questions will eventually be answered, or maybe they never will. In conjunction with Lopez's book, I would recommend reading David Berlinski's "The Devil's Delusion: Atheism and its Scientific Pretensions". I think that it's interesting that we live in an age where almost every view has to be reconciled with science, that we live in an age of "scientific pretensions."

I think that Buddhism is an eminently valuable philosophy and practice. I, for one, like the current climate of Buddhism's openness to a dialogue with science, in spite of the checkered history of the dialogue that Lopez has pointed out. The best impact this book could have would be an acknowledgment of, and honesty about, that history.

Highly relevant
A well researched and presented thesis on the evolution of Buddhism in contemporary science. Though there is a shortage of actual science, this book discusses how Buddhism has evolved into a relevant method of interpreting contemporary life.

Well worth the read. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (1)

Another Amazing Book, For Anyone (Buddhist or No, Mother or Father) With School-Age Children
This is another beautiful, insightful, and gently guiding book from Sarah Napthali, this time for mothers of school-aged children. I am a fan of both her prior books in this 'series' - Buddhism for Mothers: A Calm Approach to Caring for Yourself and Your Children and Buddhism for Mothers of Young Children: Becoming a Mindful Parent. Ms. Napthali wrote the first when her children were still in the baby/toddler years, and so it is most helpful to parents with similarly-aged children (although really, many of the themes transcend age guidelines.) The second is really focused on mothers of toddlers and preschoolers. And this latest one is focused on mothers of school-aged children.

Ms. Napthali is a practicing Buddhist, and her approach is to take Buddhist themes and teachings, and demonstrate their relevance to the daily lives of mothers, through examples drawn from her own life and anecdotes from the lives of other mothers she knows. Mindfulness, being fully present for our children, is a constant theme of all her books, as well as self-care and getting to the roots of any needless or harmful judgments we engage in - of either our own parenting, others, or our children. She draws on passages and themes that are universal to all Buddhist lineages - Zen, Tibetan, and Theravada.

That being said, this book - and all of them -are NOT just for practicing Buddhists. I gave the earlier books to other mothers I knew that do not consider themselves Buddhist, and don't even really have any knowledge of Buddhist teachings, and they found them so valuable. And they are not just for mothers either - my husband is now reading this one. Finally, this particular book is not just for parents with children in school - I think 'school-aged children' is perhaps a better title, because most of the themes are applicable to anyone with children this age, whether homeschooling or in school.

Chapters I found of particular value in this book were:

- Socialising: Working through issues with other mothers, with changing dynamics between mothers, with the tendency to gossip, with problems between children of friends etc., with compassion and a clear understanding of our boundaries.

- Explaining: Ideas and anecdotes on how to model and develop an open mind in our children when it comes to religion, politics, and any views that may differ from our own, while at the same time letting our children know what our own views are (in keeping with Buddhist teachings on not becoming fixated.)

- Sharing: How, how much, and when to share aspects of our spiritual views and practice, including some lovely guided meditations suitable for children this age.

Ms. Napthali is very generous with her own stories, and brings in many from other mothers that she knows as well. It is like reading a book by a friend. Highly recommend!
... Read more

Product Description
A lucid and profound yet eminently readable introduction to [Tibetan Buddhism].--Library Journal ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

The World of Tibetan Buddhism
Once again, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, has masterfully explained Tibetan Buddhism. His explanation is clear and concise, easy enough for anyone to read. i would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn about Tibetan Buddhism or anyone who enjoys reading His Holiness writing.

Exxcellent but for advanced
Marvellous book, however, the two parts are more for people that already know about Buddhism from practice, those who have their Kleisha yet cannot understand about void or Tantra, aspects that cannot be understood without the deep moral basis attained by following the Four Noble Truths. Thus the First part of the book is for everybody who wants to learn in general about Buddhism, but then the book starts to be very complicated, what a pitty for neophytes.One is not that surprised the write has gained so many doctorates, his intelligence is sparkling from the text, but this would be for a different review...

A BEAUTIFUL BOOK
This book is just what the title implies, an introduction to Tibetan Buddhism.As I read through the pages of this book, what transpired was an overwhelming sense of spiritual peace and tranquility.In today's "crazy world," so many people are looking for peace of mind and "a haven from the storm"that will sustain them through the everyday trials and tribulations of life.If you are not familiar with Buddhism and are still searching for that "safe haven," I think you will, indeed, find this book on the philosophies of Tibetan Buddhism both enlightening and enjoyable.

A good introduction to Buddhism
Before reading this book, I didn't know much about Buddhism, and reading it made me realize just how little I really knew.It gave me a good perspective on Buddhist practice and especially the difference between ZenBuddhism (what I knew a little about) and the rest of the Buddhist world.

It may change your life...
...for the (very) better!I just wanted to do my bit to put the general rating nearer were it should be.This book will put light, wisdom and happiness in your life...how can anyone rate it below five stars isbeyond me!If you love life, you'll love this book (whether you areBuddhist or not)! ... Read more

Product Description
2,500 years after the passing of Buddha, his message continues to resonate. This compelling introduction explains the essential principles of the Buddhist way of life and what it means to be a Buddhist. Meditation is explained clearly and simply as a tool for developing qualities such as inner peace, love and patience. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

Solid background on Buddhism
This is a very interesting and informative introduction to Buddhism. I would recommend it to those people that are more faithful than pragmatic but it has enough of a background on concepts within Buddhism to keep the general knowledge seeker interested.

Intro to Buddhism: Explanation of Buddhist way of Life.
Not exactly what I expected. Not generalized. Into a very defined method of Buddhism, of which there are many methods.

A wonderful introduction to Buddhism
This book was one of my first books on Buddhism and I can honestly say that it s trully beautiful introduction to Buddhism. It is written with such clarity it answered all of my questions about the Buddhist path. There's a chapter on Buddha's life story and others on karma, compassion and wisdom. It seems to cover the entire Buddhist path and in such a practical way that I felt I understood how it all tied together. I'd thoroughly recommend this book as a starting point on Buddhism and for anyone who wishes to understand how to bring Buddha's profound teachings into their daily life.

For more reviews on this book, put this into your Amazon search bar: "Introduction to Buddhism: An Explanation of the Buddhist Way of Life by Kelsang Gyatso (Paperback - Jan 1, 2008)"

This is the BEST Introduction to Buddhism EVER!
This deceptively small book packs an awsome punch because not a single word or phrase is redundant or wasted.This book delves quite deeply into the life of Buddha and his core teachins so that even after multiple readings I feel I still have more to learn from this one book.

Introduction To Buddhism is simple, clear, precise and vast, yet not overwhelming.

Disappointing
I doubt this book is a good introduction to buddhism.I found the writing confusing and didactic, as if the reader is a small child, and the author/guru is the ultimate authority.This 'I know better than you' tone was irritating and insulting to me and the friend who lent me the book.It made me feel that my feelings and observations are not valid, but that I must take on his way of seeing the world.His writing style is dull and pedantic, and necessitates a lot of suspension of rational thought. As another reviewer said, his views on anger and other emotions are psychologically questionable.The reader is told that anger is never justified and a result of one's earlier actions ... I think ... I really couldn't follow his train of thought. Other books on buddhism I've read encourage the reader to explore our emotions safely, to learn from them, to take them as useful information and to form our own personal interpretations.The author here offers a one-size-fits-all method of spiritual practice, modeled on tibetan buddhism, which I assume would appeal to the young.After reading this book I had no desire to practice along his recommendations. ... Read more

Product Description
Profound and amusing, this book provides a viable approach to answering the perennial questions: Who am I? Why am I here? How can I live a meaningful life? For Asma, the answers are to be found in Buddhism.

There have been a lot of books that have made the case for Buddhism.What makes this book fresh and exciting is Asma's iconoclasm, irreverence, and hardheaded approach to the subject.He is distressed that much of what passes for Buddhism is really little more than "New Age mush." He loudly asserts that it is time to "take the California out of Buddhism." He presents a spiritual practice that does not require a belief in creeds or dogma. It is a practice that is psychologically sound, intellectually credible, and esthetically appealing. It is a practice that does not require a diet of brown rice, burning incense, and putting both your mind and your culture in deep storage.

In seven chapters, Asma builds the case for a spiritual practice that is authentic, and inclusive. This is Buddhism for everyone. This is Buddhism for people who are uncomfortable with religion but yearn for a spiritual practice. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (36)

Disappointed
The sample I read on Kindle was funny and interesting, but now that I'm 50% through the book I'm very disappointed. It's not as funny or clever as I thought. And there isn't much that I can identify with. I find myself skipping through whole sections, which I almost never do. The sections are quite long, so if you're not interested in parenting or the weird physics theories he discusses, you will page thru a lot. I regret this purchase, especially since it's over the $9.99 price point!

Buddhism Chicago/NPR style
There;s a great deal to like in Stephen Asma's irreverent, thoughtful,intellectual and spiritual discourse on Buddhism.

Asma builds his case for a no-nonsense decidedly non-mystical Buddhism.

In Chapter 1, he reveals that "The Buddha Ate Meat," discusses his own angsty spiritual seeking, and concludes that "the solution to suffering is not to run away from, or escape, this world, but to run straight at it even harder."

In Chapter 2, he talks about craving, specifically romantic craving, the Fiour Noble Truths, marriage divorced from love in Buddhist countries (tip: it actually works for them), and overcoming a broken heart.

In Chapter Three, a chapter obviously dear to his heart, Asma talks about parenting and Buddhism with the Six Perfections (patience! Right speech! Vigor and effort! When his son is jumping off the walls!)

Chapter Four talks about science and slams "mystical thinking" and New Age wish-fulfillment, preferring instead Gautama as empiricist (Asma doesn't think much of THE CELESTINE PROPHECY).

Chapter Five speaks about the Beats, Charlie Parker, and creativity--obviously another area of passion for musician Asma.

Chapter Six addresses our quest for fame, the insulation of wealth, the need to do whatever job you're doing well (although , as Asma puts it, mindfulness applied to work doesn't help if a trained monkey could do your job), and neutralizing workplace bullies with kindness. I especially appreciated the opening segment with Asma's father, a man's man who insists on clearing a path to the river correctly.

Chapter Seven takes a look at "power Buddhism" and suggests that perhaps all that peacefulness needs to be temperate with assertiveness and wisdom when it comes to resisting repressive regimes and social injustice.

Asma accompanies the progression of his argument--from personal to global--with humor, a generous dose of intellectual musing and concrete real-life examples as well as high-minded musing on duty and family ("it seems like relationships were more stable in my parents' generation."--his musingas are not unwelcome.) Although making his preference for Buddhism pointed and critiquing Western religion (his discussion of faith versus technology is titled "Robots Need Enlightenment Too"), he argues in the last chapter, about Christian missionaries trying to convert Buddhist countries, "It remaisn to e seen how these religious competitions will play out. Religons meet each other like tectonic plates." He does poitn to Christianity as 'a deep an beautiful religion," but true to himself, argues for Buddhism to the end. His musings may bump against your worldview like tectonic plates, but in the grinding together you will undoubtedly hear the music of his Buddhist heart.

Great book for anyone thinking of becoming a Buddhist!
I really knew nothing about Buddhism before receiving this book. I really enjoyed reading the authors journey into becoming a Buddhist and he explained a lot of the science behind it!As someone who dabbles in region, I really thing that Buddhism is something that my life and spirit could use. Great book!

Good Theory, Disappointing Application
This book does a great job of summarizing the basic teachings of Buddhism in simple, entertaining language.However, it fails at his second stated goal: to show us what Buddhism looks like lived out in the life of your average American Joe.Asma claimed real people, like himself, are semi-free from suffering.He said it takes a lot of effort, like learning a musical instrument, but with effort anyone can be a suffering-free virtuoso!I couldn't wait!

When I studied each world religion in seminary, I took a class and also met weekly with a devotee to see how the practice pans out in real life.While my Muslim and Hindu partners were very helpful, my local synagogue and multiple Buddhist centers failed to find a partner for me.So I hoped this book would be the next best thing.

Here are some of the "sufferings" experienced by the author to which he applied Buddhism:
- His sex drive and failed relationships (divorced twice)
- Raising his active young son
For starters, this is fairly low-grade suffering.Second, it's a male perspective - not very applicable to my life.Finally, I didn't see how Buddhism helped any more than a run-of-the-mill self-help book.For example:
- don't project your ego wishes on your child, let them be their own person (no ego)
- don't use too many swear words (right speech)
- don't be an ascetic, but don't get too greedy for sex (middle path)

I did admire the author's willingness to explore other religions with an open mind.He even admits his skepticism about parts of his own religion.The Buddhist teachings of karma and reincarnation look suspiciously like irrational Hindu appendages to him and fail to meet the reality test other Buddhist teachings pass.

I delighted, yet again, in the similarities between Buddha's reform of Hinduism and Jesus' reform of Judaism.Where the author saw differences, I saw similarities.
- Both created ethical meritocracies and had little value for "castes" or rituals.
- Buddhist "eon perspective"/ Christian "eternal perspective"
-"giving up the idea of an eternal soul" / "he who loses himself finds life"
- "we are all interconnected" / "we are a body with many parts"
- "dana paramita - give of yourself" / "serve one another as I have served you"
- "everything is impermanent" / "pain is temporary"
- "don't nurse slights to your ego" / "forgive"

Asma and I both agree the big difference between Jesus and Buddha is GOD.For Jesus, we attain perfection by surrendering ourselves to God and living a life of divine communication and cooperation.To Buddha, devotion to a god, if there is such a thing, is a distraction from the internal work of sanctification.

I just can't get past the drugs. ... . .
I've tried. . . a few times. . . to read this book. But . . . Like with a few other such books I've read on the subject of people becoming Buddhists. . . The guy starts-out by telling how he used to get "stoned" . . . and then he found Buddhism.For once, I would like to hear of a "normal", non-drug-induced person write a book on the subject.I really like a lot the Buddhism has to offer, but I don't think you have to be stoned to have an "awakening" that Buddhism is right for you. ... Read more

Product Description
In this book the author explains a fundamental type of mental training called lojong, which can literally be translated as attitudinal training.Amazon.com Review
Yes, the title can be misleading. This isn't a book about hip Buddhism with some kind of bad-ass attitude. This is a training manual for learning Buddhist attitudes that will help readers find greater peace of mind and happiness in daily life. The premise here is mind control the Tibetan Buddhist way. Wallace (Boundless Heart) draws upon the traditional "root text" of the Seven-Point Mind Training and expertly translates the ancient teachings into a Western-flavored lesson. In fact, another possible title for this highly esteemed book might be, Buddhism Taught with a Western Attitude. Rather than rely solely on the traditional teaching methods of using stories and parables to ground Buddhist theory into daily living, Wallace sprinkles in large doses of intellectual and scientific analogies—definite crowd-pleasers in the West. For instance, when he delves into two Buddhist approaches for training the mind's attention—control and release—he uses the ancient metaphor of taming an elephant in the room to heel. But in the next breath he moves into a modern analogy of purifying a polluted river. This slip-sliding ease between the language and sensibilities of ancient and modern worlds is a marvel and delight for any Western student of Buddhism.

Customer Reviews (13)

great book, thank you
I'm on my 3rd rereading of this book, every reading, new insights, thanks for writing this book.

Lucid, generous, compassionate, accessible
I am very grateful to B. Allan Wallace for writing this book in this style. Such profound and practical insights digested through his own experience are generously shared using language, imagery and reasoning readily understandable by a parochial Australian such as me. His explication of more traditional Tibetan metaphors and images is also very helpful. I love the kindness and humility and humanity of the book. It has already helped me in my quest to be more patient and compassionate.

Packed full of deep wisdom...
I must confess I have not read the entire book, the first section called "the preliminaries" is so deep and full of wisdom that I have not gotten past them...it alone is worth the price of the book.I am not a buddhist, but this is deep stuff about how to live and approach conciousness, with the ultimate goal being full awareness.Clearly written, logical, very deep.My highest rec. if you want a spiritual but not dogmatic book, grounded in practical excercises.Contemplative, dynamic, deep.

no babytalk
Having read many books about Tibetan Buddhist principles and meditation techniques, this book is by far one of the best. Wallace writes for the skeptical, intellectual Westerner. Many Buddhist books written by Westerners either use baby talk or are too sirupy. Because of this, I preferred those written by Tibetan teachers - until I came across this book by Wallace.

A. Heinz, Cape Town

So you noticed Wallace wrote two books on the Mind Training . . .
Realize they are two very different books!If you are looking for something to benefit your practice then "Buddhism with an Attitude" is the way to go.Although repetitive at times, this itself is helpful, and it is written in a more instructional tone.If you feel your practice has fully matured (lucky you) and you are simply interested in a concise, more academic exposition of the seven point mind training, then "The Seven-Point Mind Training" is the one for you.Also, for being more condensed, the "The Seven-Point Mind Training", will be the book you will want to carry around once you are familiar with Lojong practice. ... Read more

Product Description
This lucid overview of the Buddhist path takes the perspective of the three "vehicles" of Tibetan Buddhism: the Hinayana, Mahayana, and Vajrayana. While these vehicles are usually presented as a historical development, they are here equated with the attitudes that individuals bring to their Buddhist practice. Basic to them all, however, is the need to understand our own immediate condition. The primary tool for achieving this is meditation, andThe Essence of Buddhism serves as a handbook for the various meditative approaches of Buddhist practice.

Beginning with the Four Noble Truths, Traleg Rinpoche incorporates the expansive vision of the bodhisattva path and the transformative vision of Tantra. The final chapters present the transcendent view of Mahamudra. This view dispenses with all dualistic fixations and directly realizes the natural freedom of the mind itself.

Along the way, the author provides vivid definitions of fundamental concepts such as compassion, emptiness, and Buddha-nature, and answers common questions: Why does Buddhism teach that there is "no self"? Are Buddhist teachings pessimistic? Does Buddhism encourage social passivity? What is the role of sex in Buddhist Tantra? Why is it said that "samsara is nirvana"? Does it take countless lifetimes to attain enlightenment, or can it be achieved in a moment? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

the essence of buddhism
this is a very good book.i've read many introductions to buddhism in relation to my practice and my teaching of buddhist psychology. at one level, this book is excellent as a beginner's introduction to an overview of the buddhist path and meditation practice.at another level, it is an advanced comprehensive but terse guide to a multitude of perspectives on the path and practice.

A comprehensive overview of Buddhist thought and philosophy
In The Essence Of Buddhism, the Venerable Traleg Kyabgon Rinpoche provides the reader with a comprehensive overview of Buddhist thought and philosophy through the perspectives offered by Tibetan Buddhism: The Hinayana, Mahayana, and Vajrayana. In addition to the Four Noble Truths, we are provided with definitions of fundamental concepts within a Buddhist philosophical framework including compassion, emptiness, and Buddha-nature. The Essence Of Buddhism is strongly recommended reading for those new to Buddhism and its rich, complex, and enduring spiritual heritage.

If you can buy only one book on Buddhism...
This is one of the finest and more interesting books I have read on Buddhism in two decades.The author has brought the very authentic tenets of Buddhism together in a wonderful marriage with views of contemporary society.His perceptions and insights intowestern life are excellent and oftentimes very funny.Traleg Kyabgon explains profound terms such as "emptiness" along with others, in such a way, that even older students of Buddhism will have a much clearer understanding.He explained the notion of Karma and the consciousness that incarnates in such an amazing way, that I had to read it several times with tremendous excitement, the excitement a Christian mystic may have finding andreading the Gnostic Gospels for the first time. If you would like to understand exactly what Buddhism teaches at its core, and how this is applicable to our lives and how it can be of benefit in any situation we find ourselves, then this is the book.It is written in an elegant style that is a pleasure to read.It is evident that much time and effort went into this book and it is sure to become a classic in our Buddhist literary collection. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

A truly rewarding book
Many surprises and intriguing conclusions await any reader willing to follow this book's discussions attentively and carefully.
No previous training in physics or Buddhism is assumed. Indeed, this text could serve as a first introduction to either discipline. The author, a professor of physic and astronomy, tells us that a major impetus for writing the book was a call by His Holiness the Dalai Lama for works that would introduce Tibetan monks to issues in modern science.
Although the author makes his points with great care and precision, his general tone is light and often quite personal, with frequent anecdotes, occasional humor, photographs, and poetry. The author's warmth shines through. Nevertheless, the discussion is layered, so that deeper meanings are available to more knowledgeable readers.
I've enjoyed a few other books that compare modern physics to Asian philosophies. This one stands out because it focuses in detail on some very specific issues without hand-waving or short-cuts. Among the problems discussed are: can an entity be truly independent? is there invariably a direction to time? can an event be "uncaused"? do physical laws support the possibility of "compassion" as understood in Buddhism? Don't assume you already know what conclusions are reached.
This book comes across as written with feeling and honesty. For all its intellectual concentration, I believe it was primarily a labor of love.

For more information and sample chapters
For those wanting to read entire chapters or the introduction by the Dalai Lama, go to the author's website at www.lightlink.com/vic.That site has much more information about the book.It may help you decide if it is for you.

Vic
... Read more

Product Description
Here is a comprehensive introduction to Zen Buddhism for those who don't know how or where to begin, nor what to expect once they have started practicing. It includes the fundamentals of meditation practice (posture, technique, clothing), descriptions of the basic teachings and major texts, the teacher-student relationship, and what you will find when you visit a zendo, plus a history of Zen from the founding of Buddhism to its major schools in the West. In addition to answering the most frequently asked questions, it offers a listing of American Zen centers and resources, an annotated bibliography, and a glossary.

Jean Smith's enormously practical approach ensures that The Beginner's Guide to Zen Buddhism will become the book teachers and students alike will recommend.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

The Beginner's Guide to Zen Buddhism by Jean Smith
This is a great book for someone new to Buddhism.Very informative and easy to understand.

Great Book for Beginners... and great refresher.
As the title suggests, a perfect guide for beginners.
Id venture to say Id suggest this be a perfect "first" for those curious and interested in Zen and Buddhism as a whole.
The author has clear and simple explanations from practice to visiting centers.A to Z and nicely organized.
Those more experienced could also use this as a refresher as well.
I highly recommend this book for everyone.

Great Beginner's Guide
The best thing that can be said is that it lives up to it's title.It presents Zen Buddhism largely in it's 'American Zen' incarnation which is what most of us who read the book are going to encounter when we venture beyond our armchairs and frontdoors.It's the not the be all and end all of anything, just a very nicely done introduction to a very complex subject.You don't learn Buddhism from books anyway.

Finally a beginners' book that is true to its title!
With her clear writing style, Smith offers anyone interested in Zen Buddhism a very good basic introduction, including practical advice and a resource guide.While she introduces the reader to the beginnings and diversity of Buddhism as a whole, she emphasizes Western approaches to and developments in Zen.Smith's work is informative and unpretentious, terse without omitting any vital details, reflecting respect and admiration for Zen traditions without worship of personalities and exoticism.

Great introduction to Zen Buddhism
As someone new to Zen Buddhism, this gave me a great overview and background to start.It's very readable and goes into all the main topics I was curious about, including etiquette, history and basic principles.I highly recommend this book! ... Read more

Product Description

Four hundred million people call themselves Buddhists today. Yet most Westerners know little about this powerful, Eastern-spawned faith. How did it begin? What do its adherents believe? Why are so many Westerners drawn to it?
Essential Buddhism responds to these questions and many more, offering an accessible, global perspective on the religion's past, present, and future.It identifies how the principal concepts and practices originated and evolved through diverse cultural adaptations into three basic formats:

* Theraveda (including Vipassana, brought from Vietnam in the 1960sand including such practitioners as Jack Kornfield and Jon Kapat-Zinn)

* Mahayana (including Zen Buddhism, originally brought to America byJapanese teachers after World War II and popularized by Jack Kerouacand Thomas Merton)

* Vajrayana (including Tibetan Buddhism, from the teachers who fled theChinese takeover of Tibet in the 1950s as well as the Dalai Lama, andembraced by Allen Ginsberg, Richard Gere, and countless others)

Essential Buddhism is the single best resource for the novice and theexpert alike, exploring the depths of Buddhism's popularity and illuminating its tenets and sensible approach to living. Written in the lucid prose of a longtime professional storyteller, and full of Buddhist tales, scriptural quotes, ancient stories, and contemporary insights, Essential Buddhism is the first complete guide to the faith and the phenomenon. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Very good overview
I'm a "casual" student of Buddhism, so I'm not sure what a serious practitioner would think, but this was perfect for me. It is very concise and appears to be very comprehensive. Highly recommended for those wanting an introduction to Buddhism.

Very good for Beginners
Very good for Beginners

I read this book a year ago and I still think of things I read in it, a year ago.Itdoes not lead you down a path of never ending comparisons on how to relateBuddhism theory in every day life, it is very good at explainingthe 3 different kinds of Buddhism, a digested version of the history and origin of Buddhism.I recommend it to any one who wants to learn but knows little about Buddhism.
John

Very accessible
"Essential Buddhism" is a good, well-written, accessible book on the basics of Buddhism.While Maguire's not as thorough as he could be on some topics, he manages to make them very accessible and understandable to a Western audience (which to me seems more important in an introductory text - if you understand the basics, you can learn more from there; if you don't, all the detail in the world won't help you).Another thing I liked about this book was that he treated the different schools of Buddhism pretty even-handedly.Some authors I've read write with a bias towards "their" school, but Maguire doesn't come off that way.And his book has a little bit of everything - theory, history, Q&As, interesting stories, etc.

Now, this book isn't going to tell you quite as much as it promises, but if you want an easy-to-understand book about the basics, I think this is a good choice.

Buddhism 101
This is a simple, easy-to-read book that I would highly reccommend to anyone interested in learning the basics of Buddhism. This is a great place to start if you are interested in learning about what the Buddha taught, but want it all in plain, straightforward English. ... Read more

Product Description

WHAT'S IN YOUR BACKPACK?

Probably all the jumbled stuff of your daily life--school books, i-pod, cell phone, maybe that thing you've been looking for elsewhere and just can't find.Why not add Buddha to the mix?

Buddha in Your Backpack gives you:

♦Buddha's Life-- Did you know he rebelled against the system?

♦Buddha's Teachings-- From the Four Noble Truths to the Eightfold Path

♦Everyday Buddhism-- A new way for you to deal with friends, family, food, school, sex, all of it.

♦Your Own Path-- Ways to move forward.It's not about joining a religion--it's about being happier.It's about waking up to your own Buddha nature.

make room for Buddha in Your Backpack

About the Author

Franz Metcalf is the author of What Would Buddha Do? and co-author of What Would Buddha Do at Work?. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

nice book for introducing buddhism to teens and some kids
as one part of our vacation, we were fortunate to visit a center in which buddhism is practiced.since my kids had had no exposure to buddhistic beliefs before, i thought that buying and reading this book and then discussing parts of it during the drive, hotel stays, tourist walking, might be neat.the kids were not teens, so, i adapted it a bit.the kids really seemed to appreciate the respect and logical approach.they were attentive at the center.after the center, we went to a restaurant in which they had a few "gambling machines" for kids.i replied to my son's request that if he really insisted on gambling $1, he could, but, if he lost, he had to give me his other $1.he ran out and lost.he gave me his last $1.my daughter came over to me and said that i will attract bad kharma by doing that.then, she gave him her last $1.of course, that night i gave him $1 and he returned $1 to her.so, i guess that she did learn and begin to practice some basic elements of buddhism.

that's a long story just to tell you that my kids benefited from this book.i enjoyed reading through it and i enjoyed sharing it with the kids.

the book is organized well.it is very informative.it is simple enough for teens to understand.it is fun and engaging!it is well written and edited.I highly recommend this book for younger teens with an interest in buddhism or whose parents / friends might be interested in buddhism.if a parent wants to use this book as a basis for teaching younger children, it can be adapted.adults wishing to read this in order to familiarize themselves with basic tenants might find this book to be light reading.that might be good for many of us!

overall, i think that this is an excellent book, and i give i an "A-".

A wonderful guide to beginning buddhism
I found this book to be extremely helpful .It laid out Buddhism for me in a relatable and understanding way that wasn't pushy in the least. Even when I didn't find some parts useful at the time I found that later I came back to them because they were more practical in that moment then when I had first read the book. I really like how Franz explained Buddhism in such a nonchalant friendly way. Also in the back of the book he provides a whole section on other books you can read, websites you can go to, and how to find Buddhists in your community.I would recommend it to anybody going through a hard time in their life or who just wants to expand themselves spiritually.

Smart, practical and positive.
I brought this book home for my teen and decided I would read it first. This is an excellent read for kids of any age and for adults too! The author shares excellent advise and phrases really good lessons in a way that is not at all preachy or condescending. I nodded my way through from beginning to end. Loved this book.

Pretty Good
I really enjoyed that book. Frank has made the book accessible to anybody who wants to learn more about Buddhism though the focus audience is teens. It starts briefly with the Buddha life then quickly teaches the 4 noble truths and eightfold path. It touches on various topics relevant to anybody and even goes into various Buddhist traditions and sects. It even has chapter on doing meditation and links to other Buddhist websites to get connected into local Sangha. The book is very practical and written in a good humor. The way Buddhism is practiced in US is different from many other parts where it may be the primary religion. Some great Japanese Zen teachers have been instrumental in bringing Buddhism to the current stage of acceptability and growth here. I read another book which talked about "Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism in America". A wonderful book which tells about the way Japanese Immigrants helped spread Buddhism here. The one core concept that is so riveting and draws many people to Buddhism is its insistence on avoiding dukkha. A pretty simple philosophy isn't it ?

I Wish I Had Had This Book as a Teen
This lovely little book offers all kinds of sound advice to teens in their everyday struggles using Buddhist ethics and principles without being preachy or dogmatic. What teen out there doesn't need to hear that they should accept themselves inspite of what the popular crowd thinks of them or if they're thin or athletic enough and so on? This is more of a self acceptance and self esteem buiding book for teens rather than one that guides them into a geniune Buddhist practice (for that, I would recommend the wonderful "Awakening the Buddha Within" by Lama Surya Das for beginning Buddhists and the simply curious of all ages), but one that even born again parents will feel comfortable giving to their child. A must for children entering into their Middle School to High School years. ... Read more

Product Description
Part of the "Religious Life in History Series," this comprehensive anthology provides translations of texts illustrative of Buddhist philosophy and doctrine as well as descriptive, concrete accounts of Buddhist practices, rituals, and experiences. Author John Strong gives careful consideration to many key aspects of the religion in a wide range of geographic and cultural arenas, from Asia to the United States, and gives students a sense of Buddhism's historical evolution in each area. In addition, this new edition of THE EXPERIENCE OF BUDDHISM uniquely offers students a list of pertinent bibliographic suggestions after each reading, giving them the opportunity to both enhance their understanding of the material and streamline their research and paper-writing process. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Review on Strong Book
The book was a bit confusing, but had a lot of good information on Buddhism.

The Experience of Buddhism
It is an excellent text which is required for a correspondence course I am taking on Buddhism which is taught by a fellow who has degrees from both Oxford and Harvard universities.

The Absolute Best Mid-Level Buddhist Studies Text
John Strong's "The Experience of Buddhism" obviously borrows heavily in idea and form from Stephen Beyer's 1970s text "The Buddhist Experience," and it's been updated a bit to include new texts on developing trends in Buddhist thought."TEOB" is a collection of primary texts with commentaries, some dating back to the early CE, some from the 1200s and 1300s, and some from modern times.This allows the reader to get an even and fair sample of Buddhist thought from the Mahayana, Theravada, and Vajriyana (Tibetan) schools, although Tibetan is less emphasized here than it is elsewhere (which makes sense, since it's a much smaller school in the Buddhist world, despite its overrepresentation in American pop culture).

Readers will be able to pick up on many important Buddhist concepts, including the basics (Four Noble Truths, Noble Eightfold Path, etc) and more advanced ideas, like the differences in cosmology between T and M Buddhism (the Arhat and the Bodhisattva, for example).Beware, though: this is Buddhism as it has historically been practiced, and is still practiced in Asian cultures today.It is NOT the feel-good, distilled tripe that passes for Buddhism on the spirituality shelf, next to the books on Wicca and similar religions.There are graphic descriptions of acolytes being beaten, abused, and even killed by monks.It touches on some of the wars that have erupted over Buddhism, not only in Tibet, but the bloody civil war that has torn Sri Lanka (Ceylon) apart.Those looking to reaffirm preconceptions about a perfect religion that allows the practitioner to do "whatever" will want to look elsewhere - this is Buddhism as it IS, as it is PRACTICED, and as it HAS BEEN HISTORICALLY.It's a great study tool, and imperative for anyone seriously considering calling himself or herself a Buddhist (and, some would argue, to do so is contrary to the Buddha's teachings anyway).That isn't to say that Buddhism is painted as a horrible religion - quite the contrary - but neither is it sugar-coated, because it CAN be a difficult pill to swallow.

Although Strong's book touches with far greater depth on Buddhist ideas than many others, it doesn't delve as deep as others into some of the theological debates that have taken place over the last 2500 years.It's one step above an "introductory" text, and to go any deeper, you would have to dig out some serious college-level textbooks.Thankfully, this is still accessible to readers of almost any level, although "TEOB" presupposes at least some experience with Buddhist thought.I highly recommend it to anyone interested in historical Buddhism, a deeper exploration of Buddhist cosmology, or the practice of Buddhism today.

Final Grade: A

Excellent resource for novice or expert reader
The presentation of primary texts combined with commentary is an excellent presentation of Buddhist thought.Several historical and philosophical strands can be followed easily with this book.The organization andtopical layouts allow the reader to move easily through the texts and focusin on areas of interest.Strong maintains acceptable historicalobjectivity within the context of a sympathetic presentation, allowing thereader to draw independent conclusions.Any student of Buddhism willbenefitfrom this book. ... Read more

Product Description
What does it take to be happy? We've all asked ourselves this question at some point, but few of us have found the path to lasting fulfillment. David Michie thought he had achieved his life's goals--the high-level job, the expensive city apartment, the luxury car, the great vacations--but a small voice was telling him he wasn't really happy. A chance remark from a naturopath sent him to his local Buddhist center. There he began themost important journey of his life. In this simple but beautifully written book, David Michie opens the door to the core teachings of Tibetan Buddhism. With wry, self-deprecating humor, he shows us now he began to incorporate Buddhist practices into his daily life. He explains how he came to understand the difference between the temporary pleasures of ordinary life and the profound sense of well-being and heartfelt serenity that comes from connecting with our inner nature. Every once in a while you come across an extraordinary book with the power to change your life. Buddhism for Busy People is one such book. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

A great book - ignore low rated reviews
Hi gang. I have been a practicing buddhist for nearly 30 years and I think this is a fantastic book.If I had a friend who was interested in Buddhism or who wanted to read an introductory book I would not hesitate to recommend David Michie's wonderful story.Please ignore those who gave it a low rating as I think they are coming from spaces that the average reader really won't care about.Indeed, it is exactly the interweaving of David's biography with the fundamental tenents of buddhism that make this an interresting and worthwhile read.If your high-powered or low-powered life seems unsatisfactory to you - please give this book a try!

Ok, not bad, but...
Ok, not bad, but there are much better books on this topic (for example, The Joy of Living: Unlocking the Secret and Science of Happiness).Although there was definitely some good stuff in this book, frankly I got a bit tired of hearing about the author's life story a few chapters into it.This seemed to be a bit more of an autobiography peppered with a slight bit of self promotion rather than what the title suggests.But, that's just my take on it, not all may agree with this assessment.

Wonderful Book
This is a wonderfully written, humorous and thoroughly accessible book. If you would like to find out more about Buddhism and also broaden your perspective of life, Buddhism for Busy People is just the ticket.
David Michie has warmth, great energy and humanity. One of my favourite parts is his description of interdependence - before we have even got out of bed in the morning, we can be thankful for many relationships: the person who made the bolts in the bed, the person who sewed the sheets, the driver who delivered the mattress. It's a reassuring thought (we are all connected!) and a reminder to be grateful.

A top pick for both new age collections and general-interest libraries
David Michie's BUDDHISM FOR BUSY PEOPLE: FINDING HAPPINESS IN AN UNCERTAIN WORLD provides an easy handbook which links Tibetan Buddhism teachings to daily life, beginning with the owner's own efforts. Chapters show how life goals can be linked to spiritual exploration and cover everything from cultivating compassion to understanding memory and rebirth experiences. A top pick for both new age collections and general-interest libraries interested in accessible, easy Tibetan Buddhism texts.

Genius writing
Buddhism for Busy People is a wonderful introduction into the world of Buddhism.I can't speak highly enough of this book.It is a gentle and easy introduction into buddhism.David takes you on a life changing journey.It changed my life and it is my bible.I don't mind lending most books to people but I can't part with my copy of buddhism for busy people.It is a little gem.Thank you David.I am eternally grateful to you for writing this book. ... Read more

Product Description
Lucid and economical, the Concise Introduction delivers a brisk, fast-moving survey. For many years, Powers' nearly six hundred-page Introduction to Tibetan Buddhism has served as the field's most authoritative and comprehensive introductory text on Tibet's distinctive Buddhist tradition. Now Powers has responded to requests to provide an introductory text in compact form. This slimmed-down reference explains the core Buddhist doctrines and the practices of meditation and tantra in an engaging manner. A survey of the four main sects of Tibetan Buddhism and a succinct history of the Tibetan cultural region complete this work. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Tibetanfor Everyone
I have not completed all of this book, but what I have read of this is a very, direct and very detailed and also a book that is more than the average book on Buddhism. This book is for the advanced Buddhist student and if you have not had any experience reading other books on the subject and are just starting out on your journey, you may want to start with something a little more toned down and little easier reading.If you are more advanced, than this is perfect for you, you will be very happy in having a book that is up to your skill level and ready to teach you at a higher grade lever, so to speak and you will not be left wanting.

More than an Introduction
The book is concise, but it's densely packed. It provides far more information than you customarily get in an introductory type text. It left me wanting to learn more about this fascinating aspect of Buddhism.

Distilling the most important creeds of Buddhism to their bare essentials
Indo-Tibetan philosophy and meditation theory expert John Powers presents A Concise Introduction to Tibetan Buddhism, which distills his nearly six hundred-page classic "Introduction to Tibetan Buddhism" to a more accessible survey ideal for newcomers to the doctrines, practices, meditations and tantra of Tibetan Buddhism. A Concise Introduction to Tibetan Buddhism surveys the four main schools of Tibetan Buddhism; walks the reader through basic Buddhist doctrines such as karma, rebirth, and dependent arising; explains the purpose and practice of tantra; and much more. A simple, solid, and highly accessible primer, distilling the most important creeds of Buddhism to their bare essentials.
... Read more

Product Description
As its teachings spread from the Indian subcontinent in all directions across Asia, Buddhism influenced every culture it touched—from Afghanistan to Korea, from Mongolia to Java. Buddhist art is a radiant reflection of the encounter of the Buddha’s teachings with the diverse civilizations that came under their sway. It is also an intriguing visual record of the evolution of Buddhist practice and philosophy over a period of more than two millennia.

More than two hundred photographs provide the visual context for this tour of the world of Buddhist art. Included in the rich variety of forms are architecture and monumental art, statuary, paintings, calligraphy, fresco, brushwork, and textile arts. Denise Leidy’s guide is the perfect introductory text for all those intrigued by this splendid aesthetic tradition. It also an essential resource for all who seek to understand Buddhist art as teaching. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

REVIEW: The Art of Buddhism: an Introduction to its History and Meaning
[...]

Only three volumes exist in print in English which cover Buddhist art as a whole, both historically and iconographically. I presume that this scarcity is due to the breadth of the subject, to the still shifting opinions on broad trends, and to the inclusion of Buddhist art within wider surveys on Asian art. Until recently, the UK press Thames & Hudson's Buddhist Art (by Robert E. Fisher) was the sole volume to which individuals could turn. In 2009, River Books released Buddhist Art by Giles Beguin. One year prior to this appeared The Art of Buddhism: an Introduction to its History and Meaning, by Denise Patry Leidy, which is specifically for "general readers and undergraduate students" (p. 5).

Shambhala is the most prominent American press dedicated to Eastern spirituality. For many readers unfamiliar with Buddhism, it is a primary or initial source of information on Buddhism. While many of its releases are popular in nature, a significant portion of their output comes in the form of translations and scholarly works.

The author is a curator in the Department of Asian Art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York).

Befitting a general introduction to the subject, the author's approach is not to delve too deeply into any particular aspect of Buddhist art, providing instead an overview of its history, from earliest beginnings in India to its dissemination and growth in South, Central, and East Asia through the Nineteenth century.

For example, rather than wading into the once-contentious question of the origin of the Buddha image, she describes a general appearance of anthropomorphism across a wide area, and leaves it at that.

Two particular themes run throughout the volume: the connection between art and Buddhist practice, and the geographical movement of artistic styles and techniques. Most of the examples of works are related to one or both of these ideas. The author touches on these two themes steadfastly; instances are found on nearly each of the volumes 342 pages. This approach makes for a cogent and focussed (if perhaps misleading) introduction to the subject.

After introductory examinations of early forms ("Pillars and Stupas," "The Buddha Image"), chapters are regionally themed; for example, three cover Korea and Japan for three historical periods. Chapters begin with a brief presentation of regional history, and examples of works of art follow, referring to the general historical theme presented and to the overarching consideration for the relationship between art and practice. This simple approach will be appreciated by educators eager for an easy foothold for presenting the history of Buddhist art. Further, those interested in the traditions in Buddhist art in particular regions may easily read through appropriate chapters.

An additional chapter on the spread of Buddhist art to the West would have rounded out the volume. The absence of such consideration in the history of Buddhist art is, however, common.

The examples presented are largely from history's most well-known, again appropriate to the general approach of the volume. Figures are identified by captions, with location and era, as well as an additional sentence underscoring some key aspect of the work. These sentences -- sometimes facile (on Alchi: "Some of these buildings are filled with magnificent paintings and sculptures" (p. 155)) -- either highlight some theme from the immediate text, again giving the introductory reader a means to engage the works based upon style or practice. Information on the size and museum holding of the pieces are given in at the end of the book.

The author chooses not explore in any depth pre-Buddhist iconography and styles, e.g., the roots of mandala paintings (India), portraiture and narrative scenes (Persia), etc. Leidy states that the book "focusses on the dialogues between cultures that underlie the dissemination of Buddhism" (p. 5). This focus is steady through the volume, with numerous instances in each chapter of particular styles and trends transmitted from place to place., e.g.,

"The small flame rising from ushnisha is [...] a regional characteristic" (p. 140).

"The painting's dense, scrolling background and the precise depiction of of details, such as the jewels decorating the throne and the patterns of the robes, reflect the long-standing importance of Nepalese aesthetics..." (p. 250)

"The posture and proportions in a bronze image of Shakymuni from Pagan illustrates [sic] the continuing importance of Indian traditions in neighboring Myanmar" (p. 166).

The latter quotation points out a flaw in the text, seemingly due to hasty editing: it is riddled with errors, most of them typographical (misplaced hypens, likely to the text re-flow during layout). I am unaware of a second edition of this book, however one presumes these will find correction.

Despite the emphasis on local and regional styles, there are very few descriptions of influences from outside of Buddhism, either chronologically and geographically.

The work contains occasional examples of architecture, but always in support of general artistic points, e.g., to show "the sharing of religious traditions" between China and Tibet and "the diverse Buddhist traditions that coexisted in China during the Qing dynasty" (p. 287).

In addition to the role of cultural trade in disseminating Buddhist art, a secondary thesis that the author pursues through the length of the book is the relationship between Buddhist practice and Buddhist art:

"... portraits of monks played an important role in Buddhist practice as early as the Tang dynasty." (p. 118)

"The acceptance that such terrifying figures embody a great spiritual understanding is part of the shift in perceptions that leads to a deeper awakening." . (p. 176-7)

"The ox [...] and herdsman as a metaphor for practice..." (p. 195)

While the earliest purposes for Buddhist art are unclear, it is well-established that mandalas, e.g., were designed as visual tools for practitioners. Many scholars also agree that representations of the Buddha and other figures in meditation were designed to help the non-literate. These two instances are given by Leidy with respect to specific works of art, and clear links between art and practice are consistently and intelligently presented throughout.

Other, less religiously-oriented motivations for the creation of Buddhist art receive less exploration: donations by the wealthy, materiality, and technical skill as awe-inspiration to the lower classes or as other means of political empowerment, etc. While the author acknowledges the presence of these in the creation of art, the main line of influence on production and visual styles she cites is: as means to Buddhist practice. While it is true that, from the religious point of view, this is the purpose of Buddhist art, failing to recognize other purposes is overly idealistic.

Buddhists of certain schools would of course agree with this description of the making of art. Buddhist art is not an art of worship, but one of practice. Nevertheless, an art history which places religious motives as the main ones in complex technical productions, ones which occur only within an advanced material culture, is something of a simplification. Students of history would benefit from a more thoroughly reasoned (and realistic, in the worldly sense) appraisal of the reasons that a religion directed at self-improvment, doing it oneself, and non-materiality has generated so many ornate and costly artifacts, personal objects of devotion, and monumental sculptures. Again, the author likely wishes to limit the scope of the book, leaving to other materials other critical approaches.

As a broad survey, the author does not pursue disputations, instead stating a single opinion on sometimes open questions. While streamlined, this approach also has the effect of appearing categorical to the reader new to the field. Although few of the author's positions are especially controversial, it is also the case that the reason for this non-controversy is at times due to the force of tradition rather than established certainty. Enterprising students might investigate the literature and uncover open questions, but little assistance is given the students by the book's notes and bibliography. Understandably intended for general audiences, perhaps I am willing to give undergraduates more credit for intellectual curiosity, and a desire to see varied scholarly lines of argument, even where they are tangled or frayed, rather than neatly meshed.

One map is included, covering the entire Asian region, with a single icon representing sites (e.g., Nalanda and Ajanta) and cities (ancient and modern). Nearly all items listed in the bibliography are post-1980, while most of the (few) quotations from primary sources are from early 20th century translations.

The graphic design of Buddhist Art is also non-controversial: clean and efficient. I appreciate the simple use of typography and color. The many images are given good space and a nice attention is paid to page layout. The paper does not allow pencil mark erasures -- erasing on one page leads to rubbing off of an image on the reverse side.

This survey fills a noted gap, and as an introductory survey for students (high school or undergraduate) is appreciated. By avoiding what are deemed secondary concerns, the author has produced a stream-lined, readable volume, however at the cost of discarding many avenues of inquiry.

- Jonathan Ciliberto, October 2010

Excellent overview
This is an excellent & comprehensive overview that is far beyoibd the usual cut-and-paste assemblage of standaard monnuments. Very, very good. ... Read more

Product Description
Compassion for all creatures is the true religion.—Buddha-charitaWesterners often mistake Buddhism for an intellectual or nihilistic religion whose sole focus is "enlightenment," but the true teachings of the Compassionate Buddha have for more than 2,500 years shared a "Gospel" of Loving-kindness and selfless concern for all sentient beings that has blessed the hearts and lives of millions around the world. Let the 400 sayings in this collection – one for each day of the year, with dozens to spare! – be a constant, daily reminder to open your heart as well as you mind to the light – and love! - of the Awakened One. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Daily Dharma
This inexpensive little book of Buddhist quotes, excerpts from sutras and traditional aphorisms can't be beat for the price as a source of daily reminders (one for every day of the year, with many to spare) of the importance of compassion and of the grace and beauty embodied in the Dharma. This is a great beside companion. As soon as you wake up in the morning, read a verse to set your heart/mind on the right path for the day. Read the same verse again before retiring at night to see how well you managed to live your compassion that day. A fabulous exercise for developing bodhichitta! ... Read more

Product Description
This book provides a comprehensive introduction to the Buddist tradition as it has developed in three major cultural areas in Asia ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

review
Book arrived promptly.Well wrapped. In new condition as promised.This was a very satisfactory transaction.My thanks to the vendor!

Simple Introduction
This book gives a basic introduction for university or high school students of Buddhism. My one criticism is that it almost completely ignores doctrine and instead focuses on practices and monastic life. However, it treats these subjects thoroughly and does include some information on doctrine.

OK for text book use
I read this book hoping for a clear understanding of Buddhism.This book is written very bland.Very few pictures too.I find it difficult to read and follow.

Not what Gotama the Buddha taught, but what Vajrayana teaches
Without resorting to unintelligent baseless claims and conjectures like Mr. Harvey has done, the facts of the book as presented do not reflect what Gotama taught. If Mr. Harvey, in his book, had presented his book as "the view of X school of tibetan Vajrayana", that would suffice, however the book itself presupposes to be "what Gotama taught", which is utterly without scriptural representation.
Anatta in sutra is synonymous and interchangeable with the terms dukkha (suffering) and anicca (impermanent), and all three terms are often used in triplet in making a blanket statement as regards any and all phenomena. "All these aggregates are anicca, dukkha, and anatta."
Anatta refers only to the absence of the permanent soul as pertains any one of the psycho-physical (namo-rupa) attributes, or Khandhas (skandhas, aggregates). Anatta/Anatman in the earliest Buddhist texts, the Nikayas, is an adjective, (A is anatta, B is anatta, C is anatta). The commonly held belief to wit that: "Anatta means no-soul, therefore Buddhism taught that there was no soul" is a concept, which cannot be found or doctrinally substantiated by means of the Nikayas, the sutras, of Buddhism.
It is of course true that the Buddha denied the existence of the mere empirical "self" in the very meaning of "my-self" (this person so-and-so, namo-rupa, an-atta), one might say in accordance with the command `denegat seipsum, [Mark VII.34]; but this is not what modern writers mean to say, or are understood by their readers to say; what they mean to say is that the Buddha denied the immortal (amata), the unborn (ajata) and Supreme-Self (mahatta') of the Upanishads. And that is palpably false, for he frequently speaks of this Self, or Spirit (mahapurisha), and nowhere more clearly than in the too often repeated formula 'na me so atta', "This/these are not my Soul" (na me so atta'= anatta/anatman), excluding body (rupa) and the components of empirical consciousness (vinnana/ nama), a statement to which the words of Sankhara are peculiarly apposite, "Whenever we deny something unreal, is it in reference to something real"[Br. Sutra III.2.22]. It was not for the Buddha but for the nihilist (natthika) to deny the Soul.
In fact the phrase "Doctrine of anatta", or "Anatmavada" is a concept utterly foreign to Buddhist Sutra, existing in only non-doctrinal Theravada and Madhyamika commentaries. As the saying goes, a "lie repeated often enough over time becomes the truth". Those interested parties to Buddhism incapable of pouring through endless piles of Buddhist doctrine have defacto accepted the notion of a "Doctrine of anatta" as key to Buddhism itself, when in fact there exists not one citation of this concept in either the Digha, Majjhima, Samyutta, Anguttara, or Khuddaka Nikayas. Unless evoking a fallacy, we must stick strictly to sutra as reference, wherein the usage of anatta never falls outside of the parameter of merely denying Self or Soul to the profane and transitory phenomena of temporal and samsaric life which is "subject to arising and passing", and which is most certain not (AN) our Soul (ATTA). Certainly the most simple philosophical logic would lead anyone to conclude that no part of this frail body is "my Self, is That which I am", is "not my Soul", of which Gotama the Buddha was wholeheartedly in agreement that no part of it was the Soul, i.e. was in fact anatta.
The perfect contextual usage of anatta is: "Whatever form, feelings, perceptions, experiences, or consciousness there is (the five aggregates), these he sees to be without permanence, as suffering, as ill, as a plague, a boil, a sting, a pain, an affliction, as foreign, as otherness, as empty (suññato), as Selfless (anattato). So he turns his mind away from these and gathers his mind/will within the realm of Immortality (amataya dhatuya). This is tranquility; this is that which is most excellent!" [MN 1.436]
The term anatman is found not only in Buddhist sutras, but also in the Upanishads and lavishly so in the writings of Samkara, the founder of Advaita Vedanta. Anatman is a common via negativa (neti neti, not this, not that) teaching method common to Vedanta, Neoplatonism, early Christian mystics, and others, wherein nothing affirmative can be said of what is "beyond speculation, beyond words, and concepts" thereby eliminating all positive characteristics that might be thought to apply to the Soul, or be attributed to it; to wit that the Subjective ontological Self-Nature (svabhava) can never be known objectively, but only thru "the denial of all things which it (the Soul) is not"- Meister Eckhart. This doctrine is also called by the Greeks Apophasis.
----Mr. Harveys book is, unfortunately, little more than a secular pseudo-intellectual attempt to "take Christ out of Christianity", or in this case to take the "only refuge (the Soul/Atman), out of Buddhism"

All the Buddhism, Minus the Spark
Peter Harvey's book is dull but extremely useful for those wanting help in learning about the history, practices, and divisions of Buddhism.If a comprehensive, encyclopedia-like reader is wanting you are needing, then this book is your answer, although I would advise taking "no dose" while reading it.Harvy sets forth a historical explanation for all elements of Buddhism and presents the sanskrit form of names and terms.I personally found Harvey's review of Tantra and Zen Buddhism to be particularly helpful.Too often, books and documentaries emphasize the sexual aspects of Tantra and the meditation of Zen without clearly stating what each denomination believes and, more importantly, why they believe such things. Also, before this book, I had trouble finding where to begin in learning about Buddhism, and this book leads its reader by the hand and into the most important issues of Buddhism, escaping the confusion caused by a western interest in Buddhism since the 1960's. ... Read more