Buddhism Books

Book SynopsisStart Where You Are is an indispensable handbook for cultivating fearlessness and awakening a compassionate heart, from bestselling author Pema Chödrön. With insight and humour, she presents down-to-earth guidance on how to make friends with ourselves and develop genuine compassion towards others.This book shows how we can ''start where we are'' by embracing rather than denying the painful aspects of our lives.Pema Chödrön frames her teachings on compassion around fifty-nine traditional Tibetan Buddhist maxims, or slogans, such as: Always apply a joyful state of mind', Always meditate on whatever provokes resentment' and Be grateful to everyone'.Working with these slogans and through the practice of meditation, Start Where You Are shows how we can all develop the courage to work with our own inner pain and discover joy, well-being and confidence.Trade Review‘‘Pema’s deep experience and her fresh way of looking at things are like mountain water – clear and deep.’ Jack Kornfield, author of A Path with Heart and After the Ecstasy, the Laundry. ‘As one of Pema Chödrön’s grateful students, I have been learning the most pressing and necessary lesson of all: how to keep opening wider my own heart.’ Alice Walker ‘It is a lively and accessible take on ancient techniques for transforming terror and pain into joy and compassion.’ O, the Oprah Winfrey magazine

Read more less

Book Synopsis'A subtle distillation of wisdom, stylistic grace and symmetry of form' Sunday Times 'It's hard to think of a more recent novel that has sung so eloquently the joys of being alone' Guardian An inspirational classic from Nobel Prize-winner Hermann Hesse, Siddhartha is a beautiful tale of self-discovery Dissatisfied with the ways of life he has experienced, Siddhartha, the handsome son of a Brahmin, leaves his family and his friend, Govinda, in search of a higher state of being. Having experienced the myriad forms of existence, from immense wealth and luxury to the pleasures of sensual and paternal love, Siddhartha finally settles down beside a river, where a humble ferryman teaches him his most valuable lesson yet. Hermann Hesse's short, elegant novel, echoing the life of the Buddha, has been cherished by readers for decades as an unforgettable spiritual primer. A tender and unforgettable moral allegory, it is an undeniable classic of modern literature. Part of the Pushkin Press Classics series: timeless storytelling by icons of literature, hand-picked from around the globe Translated by Hilda Rosner Hermann Hesse (1877-1963) is counted among the leading novelists and thinkers of the twentieth century. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1946 for a body of literature renowned for its humanist, philosophical and spiritual insight. His most famous works include Siddhartha, Journey to the East, Demian, Steppenwolf, and Narcissus and Goldmund.Trade Review'A subtle distillation of wisdom, stylistic grace and symmetry of form' - Sunday Times'A writer of genius' - The Times''[It's] hard to think of a more recent novel that has sung so eloquently of the joys of being alone... beguiling' - Guardian'Its simple prose and rebellious character echoed the yearnings of a generation that was seeking a way out of conformity, materialism and outward power.... Siddhartha emerged as a symbol; the symbol of those who seek the truth' - Paulo Coelho, author of The Alchemist'This novel is an eternally unfolding lotus: as fresh as the day I first read from its leaves' - LitHub

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe first volume in a multi-volume collection presenting the Dalai Lama’s comprehensive explanation of the Buddhist path.His Holiness the Dalai Lama has been publicly teaching Buddhism for decades. This series collects his presentations of every step of the path to enlightenment, compiled and coauthored by one of his chief Western disciples, the American nun Thubten Chodron. The Buddha wanted his students to investigate, to see for themselves whether what he said were true. As a student of the Buddha, the Dalai Lama promotes the same spirit of investigation, and as the rich tradition of the Buddha makes its way into new lands and cultures, His Holiness has recognized that new approaches are needed to allow seekers in the West to experience the relevance of the liberating message in their own lives. Such an approach cannot assume listeners are free from doubt and already have faith in Buddhism’s basic tenets. The Library of Wisdom and Compassion series, therefore, starts from the universal human wish for happiness and presents the dynamic nature of the mind. This first volume also provides a wealth of reflections on Buddhist history and fundamentals, contemporary issues, and the Dalai Lama’s own personal experiences. It stands alone as an introduction to Buddhism, but it also provides a foundation for the systematic illumination of the path in the volumes to come.  The Library of Wisdom and Compassion collects the Dalai Lama’s decades of presentations of every step of the path to enlightenment. It has been compiled and coauthored by one of his chief Western disciples, the American nun Thubten Chodron.

Read more less

Book SynopsisPersonal empowerment in the face of planetary despairTable of Contents Permissions Message from Dalai Lama Foreword by Matthew Fox Preface by Joanna Macy Preface by Molly Young Brown Chapter 1: To Choose Life We Can Still Opt for a Life-Sustaining World Choosing Our Story 1. Business As Usual 2. The Great Unraveling 3. The Great Turning The Great Turning 1. Holding Actions in Defense of Life 2. Transforming the Foundations of Our Common Life 3. Shift in Perception and Values Chapter 2: The Greatest Danger - The Deadening of Heart and Mind What is Pain for the World? What Deadens Heart and Mind? Fear of Pain Fear of Despair Other Spiritual Traps Fear of Not Fitting In Distrust of Our Own Intelligence Fear of Guilt Fear of Distressing Loved Ones View of Self as Separate Hijacked Attention Fear of Powerlessness Fear of Knowing - and Speaking Mass Media Job and Time Pressures Social Violence The Cost of Blocking Our Pain for the World Impeded Cognitive Functioning Impeded Access to the Unconscious Impeded Instinct for Self-Preservation Impeded Eros Impeded Empathy Impeded Imagination Impeded Feedback Coming Back to Life Chapter 3: The Basic Miracle - Our True Nature and Power Living Systems Theory How Life Self-Organizes Water, Fire and Web Gaia Theory Deep Ecology Beyond Anthropocentrism The Ecological Self Asking Deeper Questions Ancient Spiritual Teachings Abrahamic Religions Asian Traditions Indigenous Spirituality The Miracle of Mind Self as Choice Maker Positive Disintegration We Are the World The Nature of Our Power Power Over Power With Power Over Blocks Feedback The Power of Disclosure Synergy and Grace Chapter 4: What Is The Work That Reconnects? History of the Work Aims of the Work Basic Assumptions of the Work The Spiral of the Work The Shambhala Prophecy The Work That Reconnects in Corporate Settings Chapter 5: Guiding The Work That Reconnects The Value of Working in Groups Tasks of the Facilitator Foundations of Good Facilitation Capacities of an Excellent Guide Engaging Full Participation Working With Strong Emotions Guidelines for Conducting Rituals Workshop Setting and Arrangements Money Opening The Workshop Closing The Workshop Evaluation Follow-Up Ongoing Support for the Guide Chapter 6: Coming From Gratitude Gratitude: Teaching Points Practices Becoming Present through Breath, Movement,Sound and Silence Introductions with Gratitude Open Sentences Open Sentences on Gratitude Gratitude Rounds Mirror Walk Open Sentences on the Great Turning The Wheel of the Great Turning The Elm Dance The Presence of Gratitude Throughout the Work Chapter 7: Honoring Our Pain For The World Our Inner Responses to Suffering and Destruction Practices Small Groups on the Great Unraveling Open Sentences on Honoring Our Pain Breathing Through The Milling Reporting to Chief Seattle The Bestiary We Have Forgotten Who We Are "I Don't Care" Cairn of Mourning Truth Mandala Despair Ritual Bowl of Tears Spontaneous Writing Imaging with Colors and Clay Chapter 8: Seeing With New Eyes Brain Food Key Teaching Points Advice for Conveying These Concepts Practices The Systems Game Riddle of the Commons Game When I Made a Difference Widening Circles The Cradling Who Are You? Dance to Dismember the Ego Bodhisattva Check-In Council of All Beings Chapter 9: Deep Time - Reconnecting with Past and Future Generations To Reinhabit Time Practices Invoking the Beings of the Three Times Open Sentences on Time The Evolutionary Gifts of the Animals Harvesting the Gifts of the Ancestors Audio Recording to the Future Letter from the Future The Seventh Generation Field Work on the Great Turning The Storytellers Convention Chapter 10: Going Forth Discoveries Made So Far in the Spiral Practices Networking Communicating Our Concerns and Hopes Life Map Imaging Our Power The Sword in the Stone Callings and Resources Consultation Groups Corbett The Clearness Committee Dialoging with Mara to Strengthen Our Resolve Bowing to Our Adversaries Creating Study/Action Groups The Four Abodes Five Vows Circle of Blessings Two Poems for the Road Ahead Chapter 11: The Work That Reconnects with Children and Teens What Do Children Know and Feel? The Effects of Silence Suggestions for Overcoming the Fear and the Silence Using the Work That Reconnects Generation Waking Up Practices for Children and Teens Mothers and Daughters Follow the Spiral Talking Circle Gratitude The Human Camera Honoring Our Pain for the World Open Sentences Milling with Open Sentences Two Stories of the Truth Mandala with Children Boom Chicka Boom with Feelings Seeing with New Eyes The Web of Life Our Life As Gaia The Robot Game The Council of All Beings in a School Setting Going Forth Open Sentences for Going Forth Starfish Story and Ritual The Galactic Council Planning Actions Chapter 12: Learning with Communities of Color Part One by Joanna Macy Getting Started Honoring Our Ancestors The Immensity of the Pain How the Pain of People of Color is Pathologized Seeing the Industrial Growth Society with New Eyes Time for Deep Cultural Awakening Part Two by Patricia St. Onge Walking Toward the Work That Reconnects Deep Culture as a Lens Weaving the Threads Together Part Three by Adelaja Simon, Adrián Villaseñor Galarza and Andrés Thomas Conteris. Part Four: Sharing the Work That Reconnects with First Nationsby Andrea Avila Chapter 13: Meditations for the Great Turning The Web of Life Gaia Meditation Death Meditation Loving-Kindness Breathing Through The Great Ball of Merit The Four Abodes Two Litanies Appendix A: Chief Seattle's Message Appendix B: The Bestiary by Joanna Macy Appendix C: Ethics and Declarations of Rights Appendix D: Bodywork and Movement and Using the Spiral in Writing Workshops Endnotes Resources Index Acknowledgments About the Authors

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn this final volume on emptiness, the Dalai Lama skillfully reveals the Prasangikas’ view of the ultimate nature of reality so that we will gain the correct view of emptiness, the selflessness of both persons and phenomena, and have the means to eliminate our own and others’ duhkha.In this last of three volumes on emptiness, the Dalai Lama takes us through the Sautrantika, Yogacara, and Svatantrika views on the ultimate nature of reality and the Prasangikas’ thorough responses to these, so that we gain the correct view of emptiness—the selflessness of both persons and phenomena. This view entails negating inherent existence while also being able to establish conventional existence: emptiness does not mean nothingness. We then learn how to meditate on the correct view by cultivating pristine wisdom that is the union of serenity and insight as taught in the Pali, Chinese, and Tibetan traditions. Such meditation, when combined with the altruistic intention of bodhicitta, leads to the complete eradication of all defilements that obscure our minds. This volume also introduces us to the tathagatagarbha—the buddha essence—and how it is understood in both Tibet and China. Is it permanent? Does everyone have it? In addition, the discussion of sudden and gradual awakening in Zen (Chan) Buddhism and in Tibetan Buddhism is fascinating.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn instant New York Times bestseller. Over 1 million copies sold!Two spiritual giants. Five days. One timeless question. Nobel Peace Prize Laureates His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu have survived more than fifty years of exile and the soul-crushing violence of oppression. Despite their hardships—or, as they would say, because of them—they are two of the most joyful people on the planet.In April 2015, Archbishop Tutu traveled to the Dalai Lama's home in Dharamsala, India, to celebrate His Holiness's eightieth birthday and to create what they hoped would be a gift for others. They looked back on their long lives to answer a single burning question: How do we find joy in the face of life's inevitable suffering?They traded intimate stories, teased each other continually, and shared their spiritual practices. By the end of a week filled with laughter and punctuated with tears, these two global heroes ha

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe second volume in the Dalai Lama’s definitive and comprehensive series on the stages of the Buddhist path, The Library of Wisdom and Compassion.Volume 1, Approaching the Buddhist Path, contained introductory material that set the context for Buddhist practice. This second volume, The Foundation of Buddhist Practice, describes the important teachings that will help us establish a flourishing Dharma practice.   Traditional presentations of the path in Tibetan Buddhism assume the audience already has faith in the Buddha and believes in rebirth and karma, but the Dalai Lama realized early on that a different approach was needed for his Western and contemporary Asian students. Starting with the four seals and the two truths, His Holiness illuminates key Buddhist ideas, such as dependent arising, emptiness, and karma, to support the reader in engaging with this rich tradition. This second volume in the Library of Wisdom and Compassion series provides a wealth of reflections on the relationship between a spiritual mentor and student, how to begin a meditation practice, and the relationship between the body and mind.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisVipassana meditation is the direct path to overcoming sorrow and realizing Nibbana, according to the Buddha. It involves mindfulness of body, feelings, mind states, and objects.

Read more less

Book SynopsisDhammapada means "the path of dharma," the path of truth, harmony, and righteousness that anyone can follow to reach the highest good. Easwaran's translation of this classic Buddhist text is the best-selling edition in its field, praised by Huston Smith as a "sublime rendering." The introduction gives an overview of the Buddha's teachings that is penetrating and clear - accessible for readers new to Buddhism, but also with fresh insights and practical applications for readers familiar with this text. Chapter introductions place individual verses into the context of the broader Buddhist canon. Easwaran is a master storyteller, and his opening essay includes many stories that make moving, memorable reading, bringing young Siddhartha and his heroic spiritual quest vividly to life. But Easwaran's main qualification for interpreting the Dhammapada, he said, was that he knew from his own experience that these verses could transform our lives. This faithful rendition brings us closer to the compassionate heart of the Buddha.Trade Review“No one in modern times is more qualified – no, make that ‘as qualified’ – to translate the epochal Classics of Indian Spirituality than Eknath Easwaran. And the reason is clear. It is impossible to get to the heart of those classics unless you live them, and he did live them. My admiration of the man and his works is boundless.” – Huston Smith, author of The World’s Religions

Read more less

Book SynopsisA testimony to the invaluable contributions made by the women who were direct disciples of the Buddha—and a source of inspiration to Buddhist women today.It’s a common perception that the earliest textual records don’t contain many, if any, teachings by the Buddha’s female disciples; yet, this is not the case. In fact, the earliest discourses record a range of teachings from Buddhist women, lay and monastic. Unfortunately their important contributions have so far not received the attention they deserve.  In Daughters of the Buddha, esteemed scholar-monk Bhikkhu Analayo examines the accounts of the first female disciples in the canonical scripture, taking the reader back to the earliest period in the history of Buddhism that can still be accessed today. He dedicates each of the twenty-one chapters in the volume to an individual and remarkable woman, sharing her particular insights and teachings with the reader. Both nuns and laywomen are featured in these pages, and their diversity of voices and richness of thought will serve as instruction and encouragement for modern scholars and practitioners alike.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisSun Tzu's The Art of War offers the wisdom of ancient China for the modern reader Originally written in the 5th century, The Art of War is a masterpiece of military strategy and Chinese philosophy that has influenced countless leaders, both on the battlefield and in the boardroom. The exhortations and advice from The Art of War have echoed throughout the centuries as pieces of timeless wisdom, no matter the foe you may be facing. This edition of the timeless classic uses Lionel Giles's brilliant translation of the original text, re-designed with a modern look and a pocket-size trim that's perfect for gift giving. Whether they're students or salespeople, readers everywhere will benefit from Sun Tzu's profound insights into human behavior.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA treasury of writings and teachings from the beloved Zen teacher Thich Nhat Hanh.Since Thich Nhat Hanh’s exile from his native Vietnam in 1966, this Zen Buddhist monk has gone on to become one of the most influential and beloved spiritual masters of our age. The seeming simplicity of his words belies the power of this teaching to touch the heart and mind and to inspire spiritual practice. These selections, taken from his many published works, together make up a concise introduction to all his major themes and distill his teachings on the transformation of individuals, relationships, and society.This book is part of the Shambhala Pocket Library series.The Shambhala Pocket Library is a collection of short, portable teachings from notable figures across religious traditions and classic texts. The covers in this series are rendered by Colorado artist Robert Spellman. The books in this collection distill the wisdom and heart of the work Shambhala Publications has published over 50 years into a compact format that is collectible, reader-friendly, and applicable to everyday life.

Read more less

Book SynopsisHow do you cope when facing life-threatening illness, family conflict, faltering relationships, old trauma, obsessive thinking, overwhelming emotion or inevitable loss? If you're like most people, chances are you react with fear and confusion, falling back on timeworn strategies: anger, self-judgement and addictive behaviours. Though these old, conditioned attempts to control our life may offer fleeting relief, ultimately they leave us feeling isolated and mired in pain. There is another way. Beneath the turbulence of our thoughts and emotions exists a profound stillness, a silent awareness capable of limitless love. Tara Brach, author of the award-winning Radical Acceptance, calls this awareness our true refuge, because it is available to every one of us, at any moment, no exceptions. In this book, Brach offers a practical guide to finding our inner sanctuary of peace and wisdom in the midst of difficulty. Based on a fresh interpretation of the three classic Buddhist gateways to freedom - truth, love and awareness - True Refuge shows us the way not just to heal our suffering, but also to cultivate our capacity for genuine happiness. Through spiritual teachings, guided meditations and inspirational stories of people who discovered loving presence during times of great struggle, Brach invites us to connect more deeply with our own inner life, one another and the world around us. True Refuge is essential reading for anyone encountering hardship or crisis, anyone dedicated to a path of spiritual awakening. The book reminds us of our own innate intelligence and goodness, making possible an enduring trust in ourselves and our lives. We realize that what we seek is within us, and regardless of circumstances, 'There is always a way to take refuge in a healing and liberating presence.'Trade ReviewSo many of us fear there is something wrong with us or have hit an emotional brick wall. True Refuge by Tara Brach, a clinical psychologist and teacher of mindfulness, is a source of gentle consolation. The Sunday Times, Style Drawing on the latest findings in neuroscience as well as ten more years of personal experience on the path of awakening, Tara Brach's superb second book brings readers ever more deeply in touch with our true nature. This book is a precious gift, filled with insight, shared from heart to heart. -- Thich Nhat Hanh This is a special book, lovely, loving, wise and helpful. It is like having a sage and caring friend sit with you, offering comfort, insight and guidance for your own true journey home. -- Jack Kornfield author of The Wise Heart This is a beautifully written book that directly taps into the beating heart of wisdom and compassion. It offers useful, pragmatic advice on how to deepen one's mindfulness practice and have greater self-compassion when faced with suffering. A wonderful follow-up to Radical Acceptance, this is a must-read for anyone who wants to develop greater insight and open-heartedness in their life. -- Kristin Neff, PhD author of Self-Compassion Tara Brach has done it again. True Refuge inspires the confidence needed to face our deepest, most difficult emotions. With tenderness and understanding, she teaches us the practical techniques that can help us loosen the grip of these emotions and arrive at a place of peace and basic goodness which is our essential nature. As more and more citizens learn and practice these techniques, it can begin a transformation that will allow a kinder, compassionate, and more mindful nation to emerge. -- Congressman Tim Ryan, author of A Mindful Nation There is something very special about this exquisitely written book-its clarity, beauty, simplicity, and humanity practically sing to you. Inspiring and uplifting to read, it also has eminently practical, implementable, step-by-step guidance to practice and live by. And the fifteen brief, powerful guided meditations offer an easy, gentle entry toward inner peace and wisdom. While turning the pages, I thought of a half dozen people who could really use this book as a friendly, loving reference point-myself included! -- Belleruth Naparstek, author of Invisible Heroes and creator of the Health Journeys guided imagery audio series This book is a rare gift. It speaks to the tender heart in us all when things go wrong in our lives. In a natural and deeply personal way, Tara Brach accompanies the reader into "presence," a warm embrace of who we are and the life we're given. She offers tools and gentle guidance for living safely and peacefully even in the midst of challenging circumstances. At once inspiring, humble, and wise, this book uniquely captures the ineffable, healing essence of mindfulness meditation practice. -- Christopher Germer, Ph.D., Clinical Instructor, Harvard Medical School, author of The Mindful Path to Self-Compassion An insightful book that shows us the way not just to heal our suffering but also to cultivate our capacity for genuine happiness through spiritual teachings, guided meditations and inspirational stories of people who discovered loving presence during times of great struggle. YOGA magazine

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisA comprehensive and theory-rich investigation of the history and philosophy of yoga, from its Indian origins to the contemporary context.Clear, accessible, and meticulously annotated, Tracing the Path of Yoga offers a comprehensive survey of the history and philosophy of yoga that will be invaluable to both specialists and to nonspecialists seeking a deeper understanding of this fascinating subject. Stuart Ray Sarbacker argues that yoga can be understood first and foremost as a discipline of mind and body that is represented in its narrative and philosophical literature as resulting in both numinous and cessative accomplishments that correspond, respectively, to the attainment of this-worldly power and otherworldly liberation. Sarbacker demonstrates how the yogic quest for perfection as such is situated within the concrete realities of human life, intersecting with issues of politics, economics, class, gender, and sexuality, as well as reflecting larger Indic religious and philosophical ideals.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis"The Tibetan Book of the Dead" is the most famous Buddhist text in the West, having sold more than a million copies since it was first published in English in 1927. This title tells the story of how a relatively obscure and malleable collection of Buddhist texts of uncertain origin came to be so revered - and so misunderstood - in the West.Trade Review"A scholarly and informative short read, very useful as a reminder that religious books are not necessarily fixed entities."--James F. DeRoche, Library Journal "The focus of Donald Lopez's ingenious, informative, and engagingly written 'biography' is not so much the original Tibetan text but the pioneering edition and translation first issued in 1927 by the American traveler, scholar, and Theosophist W.Y. Evans-Wentz."--Roger Jackson, Buddhadharma: The Practitioner's Quarterly "The focus of Donald Lopez's ingenious, informative, and engagingly written 'biography' is not so much the original Tibetan text but the pioneering edition and translation first issued in 1927 by the American traveler, scholar, and Theosophist W.Y. Evans-Wentz."--Roger R. Jackson, Buddhadharma "[T]his biography springs to life when Lopez places its subject within the weird tradition of American spiritualism, complete with Madame Blavatsky's acolytes, Ouija boards and memories of exotic past lives."--Miriam Cosic, The Australian "What makes Lopez's biography of Evans-Wentz's book not only amusing (as it unfailingly is) but enlightening is that one suspects he too could have 'chosen any Asian text' that had been ripped from its context and composed a similar story of how meanings, willy-nilly, had attached themselves to it. Having read Lopez's book, we will look afresh at the volumes of unmoored wisdom so many in the West have taken to heart."--David Cozy, Japan Times "The Tibetan Book of the Dead: A Biography is an excellent short introduction to Buddhism, and an intriguing analysis of how ancient texts are used (or invented) to give authority to ideologies."--Heather Shaw, Portland Book Review "Concise and written with Lopez's usual clarity, this short book at times reads like an exciting spiritual detective story as the author methodically takes the reader through the improbable developments that led to the creation of what, in some sense, is a Western creation brought forth from Eastern concepts... Although written for a popular audience, this book should be of interest to all scholars interested in the metamorphosis of Buddhism as the dharma has become transplanted in the West."--George Adams, NovaReligio "Lopez is a good scholar with an engaging style ... and a reader new to the Tibetan Book of the Dead will find this book a reliable and often entertaining introduction to the work and to its Tibetan and Western histories."--Geoffrey Samuel, European Legacy "Although the book addresses a broad and general audience, it is still an excellent scholarly study on the translation and transformation of Tibetan texts into a single English book that eventually became a 'timeless world spiritual classic.' The study is firmly set in the complex trajectories of transcultural encounters and should benefit religious studies scholars from different fields of research. For scholars of American religious history, Buddhism in the West, and contemporary religion in the Euro-American context, the book provides an accessible account of the Buddhist and Tibetan background of the text in question; for scholars from Buddhist and Tibetan studies, the book offers a window to modernist adaptations and interpretations of Buddhist texts in 20th-century America. This slim volume will function well in the undergraduate classroom to demonstrate that religious texts are not timeless and fixed entities... Lopez's narrative biography of The Tibetan Book of the Dead will provide a useful and accessible reading assignment for more specialized classes."--Katja Rakow, Religion "This [is a] magnificent little piece of literary iconoclasm."--Michel Clasquin-Johnson, Relegre-Studies in Religion and ReceptionTable of ContentsAcknowledgments ix Introduction 1 Chapter 1: America 13 Chapter 2: India 30 Chapter 3: T ibet 49 Chapter 4: The World 71 Conclusion 128 Coda 153 Notes 157 Index 171

Read more less

Book SynopsisMassmarket edition of this spiritual guide to making the most of life, through bad times as well as good, from bestselling author Pema Chödrön. This accessible book has been on the US bestseller lists consistently for four years now.In The Wisdom of No Escape, bestselling author Pema Chödrön shows us the profound value of our situation of no exit' from the ups and downs of life.This book is about saying yes to life in all its manifestations about making friends with ourselves and our world and embracing the potent mixture of joy, suffering, brilliance, and confusion that characterizes the human experience.It urges us to wake up wholeheartedly to everything and to use the abundant, richly textured fabric of everyday life as our primary spiritual teacher and guide.Trade Review‘Pema’s deep experience and her fresh way of looking at things are like mountain water – clear and deep.’ Jack Kornfield, author of A Path with Heart and After the Ecstasy, the Laundry. ‘As one of Pema Chödrön’s grateful students, I have been learning the most pressing and necessary lesson of all: how to keep opening wider my own heart.’ Alice Walker ‘It is a lively and accessible take on ancient techniques for transforming terror and pain into joy and compassion.’ O, the Oprah Winfrey magazine

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisRealize the power of Tara, the Buddhist goddess of compassion, within yourself in this modern guide to her 21 forms.Explore down-to-earth meditations and stories of real women who embody Tara''s qualities.Tara, the Buddhist goddess of compassion, can manifest within all of us. In this illustrated introduction to Tara''s twenty-one forms, respected female Buddhist teacher and practitioner Dorje Lopön Chandra Easton shows you how to invite Tara?s awakened energy to come alive in yourself through: insight into core Buddhist concepts and teachings; meditations; mantra recitations; and journal exercises. The relatable stories from Buddhist history and the author?s personal reflections will give you the tools to live a more compassionate life, befriend your fears, and overcome everyday challenges.Find out how important women and movements in modern history have achieved this through their own embodiment of Tara''s enlightened activities. The stories of Jane Goodall, Nawal El Saadawi, Oprah Winfrey, Vandana Shiva, Black Lives Matter, Me Too, and others will inspire you to bring these aspects of Tara into the world in creative and socially conscious ways for the benefit of all.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisReveals how true power comes from within. This book illustrates how the understanding of power leads us on a search for external markers like job title or salary. It challenges our assumptions and teaches us how to access the true power that is within our grasp.Trade Review"The Art of Power is a bold and visionary work that reframes power, ambition, success, happiness, love, and peace." -- Spirituality & Practice "Among Buddhist leaders influential in the West, Thich Nhat Hanh ranks second only to the Dalai Lama." -- New York Times

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisWalk step by step through the stages of this tantric ritual of purification with inspired commentary and forty full-color illustrations.The force of our past actions makes it hard to attain our goals, including success in meditation. And so Buddhism has developed methods for purifying our past, clearing the obstacles to success and fulfillment. One of the most popular methods for karmic housekeeping, one common to all schools of Tibetan Buddhism, is the preparatory practice of visualizing the buddha Vajrasattva and reciting his hundred-syllable mantra. It is considered an essential foundation for the success of spiritual endeavor. The practice of Vajrasattva is often the first experience practitioners have of trying to perform tantric ritual. Combining prayers, visualizations, mantra recitations, and multiple styles of meditation, it can be hard for those who did not grow up in the tradition to know how to proceed. This friendly volume by a young Tibetan lama with many followers in China lays out the practice step by step accompanied by sixty color illustrations.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisHow can we go on living when things fall apart—when we are overcome by pain, fear, and anxiety? Pema Chödrön’s answer to that question contains some spectacularly good news: there is a fundamental happiness readily available to each one of us, no matter how difficult things seem to be. To find it, according to traditional Buddhist teaching, we must learn to stop running from suffering and instead actually learn to approach it—fearlessly, compassionately, and with curiosity. This radical practice enables us to use all situations, even very painful ones, as means for discovering the truth and love that are utterly indestructible. 2 CDs, 2 1/2 hours, abridged

Read more less

Book SynopsisA renowned Buddhist teacher's magnum opus, based on his fresh reading of the tradition's earliest textsTrade Review“In many ways, the most intellectually stimulating book on Buddhism in the past few years.”—Adam Gopnik, The New Yorker"A serious, secular reexamination of Buddhist ethics that acknowledges religiosity. . . . Highly intelligent, rigorous, and absorbing."—Publishers Weekly (starred review)"Brilliant, illuminating, and thought provoking, After Buddhism deserves the ultimate compliment for a work of this kind: it is useful. In probing the ancient scriptures in search of a Buddha we can relate to, Batchelor makes his dharma come thrillingly alive. A masterful achievement."—Mark Epstein, MD, author of Thoughts without a Thinker"In this remarkable book, Stephen Batchelor transcends Buddhist dogma to surface a vision of the dharma that goes right to the heart of our contemporary global culture. Through diligent scholarship and years of practice, the author sheds new and revelatory light on the dharma. This is a must-read for all students of Buddhism."—Joan Halifax, PhD, Abbot, Upaya Zen Center"With exemplary lucidity, Stephen Batchelor demonstrates the relevance of an ancient thought and practice in our own era. There is much in it that illuminates and clarifies—for those acquainted with Buddhism as well as those coming to it for the first time."—Pankaj Mishra"Drawing on insights gleaned during decades of intensive practice, study, and writing, Batchelor’s essays demonstrate conclusively how the ancient texts of Buddhism speak directly to the needs of contemporary people living active, engaged lives in the world."—Robert E. Buswell, Jr., University of California, Los Angeles"An audacious disquisition on Buddhism, universal dharma, reality, and suffering for the 21st century. Batchelor posits that for the deep wisdom of Buddhism to serve humanity fully in our time, it may have to transcend itself."—Jon Kabat-Zinn, author of Full Catastrophe Living and Coming to Our Senses

Read more less

Book SynopsisBuddhism: A Very Short Introduction introduces the reader to the teachings of the Buddha and to the workings of Buddhism in daily life. Damien Keown looks at the distinctive features of Buddhism, examining who the Buddha was and what his teachings were. By considering how Buddhist thought has developed over the centuries, Keown considers how contemporary dilemmas can be faced from a Buddhist perspective. In this new edition Keown provides new perspectives on Buddhist thought, including up-to-date material about the evolution of Buddhism throughout Asia, the material culture of Buddhism and its importance, new teachings on the ethics of war and peace, and changes to ethnicity, class, and gender. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade ReviewKeown's skill in explaining complex ideas and the book's clarity of structure and style ensure that it will retain the respect of scholars and students. In short, the book is a very worthwhile read. * Naomi Appleton, The Expository Times *Table of ContentsList of illustrations ; List of maps ; Acknowledgements ; Note on citations and pronunciation ; 1. Buddhism and elephants ; 2. The Buddha ; 3. Karma and rebirth ; 4. The Four Noble Truths ; 5. The Mahayana ; 6. The spread of Buddhism in Asia ; 7. Meditation ; 8. Ethics ; 9. Buddhism in the West ; Timeline ; Further Reading ; Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisBuddhism or Buddhisms? By the time they move on to Buddhism in Japan, many students who have studied its origins in India ask whether this is in fact the same religion, so different can they appear. In Buddhisms: An Introduction, Professor John S. Strong provides an overview of the Buddhist tradition in all its different forms around the world. Beginning at the modern day temples of Lumbini, where the Buddha was born, Strong takes us through the life of the Buddha and a study of Buddhist Doctrine, revealing how Buddhism has changed just as it has stayed the same. Finally, Strong examines the nature of Buddhist community life and its development today in the very different environments of Thailand, Japan, and Tibet. Enriched by the author’s own insights gathered over forty years, Buddhisms never loses sight of the personal experience amidst the wide-scope of its subject. Clear in its explanations, replete with tables and suggestions for further reading, this is an essential new work that makes original contributions to the study of this 2,500 year-old religion. Trade Review‘An original contribution and approach to this 2,500 year-old religion, with its precise explanations fortified by tables and information on further reading’. * East and West Series *‘This substantial study is a near-comprehensive digest of the history of Buddhism in its multiple forms... Exemplary for its organization and writing, this work is likely to become the standard single-volume text on Buddhism for the student, whether within the walls of the academy or without.’ * Library Journal *‘Deftly selecting material from a vast tradition, Strong guides the reader through complex topics with precision, clarity, and insight... readers eager to dive into a rigorous, well-organized investigation of Buddhism's intricate 2500-year-old history will find much to reward them.’ * Publishers Weekly *‘Buddhisms: An Introduction is a Brueghalian masterpiece, which conveys the age-old religious themes in a setting of lived reality touched with hints of humour, offering intriguing perspectives on all of Buddhism’s bewildering diversity. The effect is somewhat breathtaking – so much covered so apparently effortlessly.’ -- Kate Crosby, Professor of Buddhist Studies, King’s College London‘Written with great clarity and sensitivity... this work is a welcome addition to the genre of books that survey the development of Buddhism across Asia.’ -- Stephen C. Berkwitz, Missouri State UniversityTable of ContentsPreface Schemes and Themes Technicalities Note on abbreviations Chapter 1 Introduction: Lumbinī, a Buddhist World Exposition 1.1 Theravāda and Mahāyāna 1.2 Lumbinī’s Eastern Monastic Zone: South and Southeast Asian Traditions 1.2.1 The Mahā Bodhi Society 1.2.2 The Sri Lanka Monastery 1.2.3 The Gautamī Center for Nuns 1.2.4 Myanmar (Burma) 1.2.5 Meditation Centers 1.3 Lumbinī’s Western Monastic Zone: East Asian Traditions 1.3.1 China 1.3.2 Korea 1.3.3 Japan 1.3.4 Vietnam 1.4 Lumbinī’s Western Monastic Zone: Tibetan Vajrayāna Traditions 1.4.1 The Great Lotus Stūpa 1.4.2 The Lumbinī Udyana Mahachaitya Part I: Foundations of the Triple Gem: Buddha/s, Dharma/s, and Saṃgha/s Chapter 2 Śākyamuni, Lives and Legends 2.1 The Historical Buddha 2.2 The Buddha’s World 2.3 The Buddha of Story 2.4 Past Buddhas and the Biographical Blueprint 2.5 The Start of Śākyamuni’s Career 2.6 Previous Lives (Jātakas) 2.6.1 The Donkey in the Lion’s Skin 2.6.2 Vessantara Jātaka 2.6.3 The Tigress Jātaka 2.7 A Lifestory of Śākyamuni 2.7.1 Birth and Childhood 2.7.2 Life in the Palace 2.7.3 The Beginnings of Discontent 2.7.4 The Great Departure 2.7.5 Paths Not Taken 2.7.6 Awakening 2.7.7 After Enlightenment 2.7.8 The First Sermon 2.7.9 Various Conversions and Miracles 2.7.10 Death and Parinirvāṇa Chapter 3 Overcoming the Buddha’s Absence 3.1 Seeing the Buddha in the Dharma 3.1.1 Excursus on the Buddhist Canon/s 3.2 Places of Pilgrimage 3.3 Relics 3.4 Buddha Images 3.5 The Masters of the Dharma 3.6 The Arhat Dharma-Protectors 3.7 Meeting Maitreya Chapter 4 Some Permutations of the Middle Way 4.1 The Middle Way 4.2 Karma and Saṃsāra 4.2.1 Why Do Good Deeds? 4.2.2 Contexts of Karma I: Neither Free Will nor Determinism 4.2.3 Contexts of Karma II: Both Jain and Upaniṣadic Views 4.3 The Doctrine of Non-Self (Anātman) 4.3.1 Breaking Down the False Sense of Self: the Five Aggregates and Impermanence 4.3.2 The Elements (Dharmas) 4.3.3 Countering the Breakdown of Self: Personal Continuity 4.3.4 Explications of Continuity: Pseudo-Selves and Ersatz Ātmans 4.4 Summary Chapter 5 The Four Truths 5.1 The First Truth: Stress 5.2 The Second Truth: the Continual Arising of Stress and Interdependent Origination 5.2.1 The Double Bind of Saṃsāra 5.3 The Third Truth: the Cessation of Stress – Nirvāṇa 5.4 The Fourth Truth: the Path to the Cessation of Stress 5.4.1 Moral Discipline 5.4.2 Meditation 5.4.3 Wisdom 5.5 Other Systematizations of the Path 5.5.1 The Seven Factors Conducive to Enlightenment 5.5.2 The Graduated Training 5.5.3 The Four Divine Abidings 5.5.4 The Four Fruits of the Path 5.6 Summary Chapter 6 The Establishment and Character of the Early Buddhist Community 6.1 Monastic–Lay Interactions 6.1.1 Dāna (Giving) and Other Forms of Making Merit 6.1.2 Lay Ethics 6.1.3 Magical Protection 6.1.4 Laypersons and the Monastic Rules 6.1.5 Royal Supporters 6.1.6 King Aśoka 6.2 The Monastics: Wandering and Settling 6.2.1 Monastic Lifestyles 6.2.2 Monasteries 6.3 Mahāprajāpatī and the Establishment of the Order of Nuns 6.4 Common Moral Commitments 6.5 Initiation Rituals: Wandering Forth and Ordination 6.6 Monastic Rules 6.6.1 The Elaboration of the Disciplinary Code 6.6.2 Enforcement of the Rules: Prātimokṣa Recitation and Pravāraṇa 6.7 Some Exemplary Disciples of the Buddha 6.7.1 Śāriputra and Maudgalyāyana 6.7.2 Paṭācārā 6.7.3 The Laypersons Nakulapitṛ and Nakulamātṛ 6.7.4 Viśākhā, Preeminent Laywoman 6.8 Summary Chapter 7 Visions and Divisions of the Saṃgha 7.1 Council Stories 7.1.1 The Council at Rājagṛha 7.1.2 Vinaya Disputes: the Council of Vaiśālī 7.1.3 The Councils of Pāṭaliputra 7.1.4 Other Council Traditions 7.2 The Flowering of Mainstream Factionalism 7.3 Other Divisional Issues 7.3.1 Practice vs. Study 7.3.2 Meditators and Merit Makers 7.3.3 Forest Monks and Town Monks 7.3.4 The Question of Asceticism 7.3.5 The Question of Bon-Vivant Monks 7.3.6 Sect vs. Sect 7.4 The Origins of the Mahāyāna 7.5 Proliferation of Mahāyāna Schools 7.5.1 Mahāyāna Schools in India 7.5.2 Mahāyāna Schools in China 7.5.3 Mahāyāna Schools in Japan 7.5.4 Mahāyāna Schools in Tibet 7.6 Summary Part II: Further Elaborations of the Triple Gem Chapter 8 Mahāyāna and Vajrayāna Ways of Meeting the Buddha/s 8.1 Changes in the View of the Buddha: the Lotus Sūtra and Śākyamuni’s Lifespan 8.2 Three Bodies of the Buddha/s 8.3 Meeting the Buddha/s in Their Pure Lands 8.3.1 Akṣobhya 8.3.2 Bhaiṣajyaguru 8.4 Amitābha 8.4.1 Meeting Amitābha through Visualization 8.4.2 Rebirth in the Pure Land 8.5 Meeting the Buddha in the Great Bodhisattvas 8.5.1 Avalokiteśvara 8.5.2 Other Great Bodhisattvas 8.6 Meeting the Buddha/s in the Vajrayāna 8.6.1 Maṇḍalas and the Five Tathāgatas 8.6.2 Ritual Consecration (Abhiṣeka) 8.6.3 Merging with the Buddha 8.6.4 Visions: Meeting the Buddha/s in Bardo 8.6.5 Buddha Embodiments in This World: Gurus and Tülkus 8.7 Summary Chapter 9 Māhāyana Doctrinal Developments 9.1 Emptiness: the Selflessness of Dharmas 9.2 Nāgārjuna and the Madhyamaka 9.3 The Expansion of Provisional Truth: Expedient Means (Upāya) 9.4 Tiantai Doctrines 9.5 The Ongoing Dialectic: the Yogācāra School 9.5.1 Asanga and Vasubandhu and the Development of the School 9.5.2 Yogācāra Doctrines 9.6 Avataṃsaka Doctrines 9.6.1 Applications of Interpenetration 9.7 The Buddha Womb/Embryo (Tathāgatagarbha) Teachings 9.7.1 Resurgence of the True Self 9.8 Buddha-Nature Controversies 9.8.1 Limitations to the Buddha-Nature: the Icchantika Debate 9.8.2 The End of the Dharma 9.8.3 Expansions of the Buddha-Nature Doctrine 9.9 Summary Chapter 10 The Bodhisattva Path, Tantra, and Zen 10.1 The Bodhisattva Path 10.2 Sudden and Gradual 10.2.1 Disagreements over the Nature of the Path: the Debate at Samyé 10.2.2 Disagreements over the Nature of Enlightenment 10.3 Graduated Paths 10.3.1 Compassion and Bodhicitta 10.3.2 The Stages of the Path, the Perfections, the Five Paths 10.3.3 Routinization and Ritualization 10.4 Path Shortcuts 10.5 Tantra 10.5.1 Uniting the Poles 10.5.2 Tantric Physiology 10.5.3 Mahāmūdra and Dzokchen (Rdzogs chen) 10.6 Direct Experiences: Chan/Zen 10.6.1 Kōans 10.6.2 Critical Phrases (Huatou) 10.7 Summary Chapter 11 Saṃgha Situations: Places, Persons, and Practices in Thai Buddhism/s 11.1 Buddhism in Thailand 11.2 Thai Monastic Life: Temporary Ordination 11.2.1 Life as a Novice 11.2.2 Experiences as a Monk 11.3 The Lives of Two Charismatic Thai Monks 11.3.1 Acharn Mun 11.3.2 Khruba Siwichai 11.4 The End of the Rains-Retreat in a Northern Thai Village 11.5 A Thai Temple in Wimbledon, England Chapter 12 Saṃgha Situations: Places, Persons, and Practices in Japanese Buddhism/s 12.1 The Hexagonal Hall (Rokkakudō) 12.1.1 Prince Shōtoku 12.1.2 Shinran 12.1.3 Kannon, Jizō, and Fudō 12.2 The Ritual Year at Shinnyodō 12.2.1 New Year’s 12.2.2 Ḍākinī and the Recitation of the Great Perfection of Wisdom Sūtra 12.2.3 Main Hall Rituals 12.2.4 Goma 12.2.5 The Killing Stone 12.3 The Ryōanji Rock Garden 12.4 The Buddha’s Birthday at the Morgan Bay Zendō 12.5 The Japan Temple in Lumbinī 12.6 Conclusion Chapter 13 Saṃgha Situations: Places, Persons, and Practices in Tibetan Buddhism/s 13.1 Lhasa Jokhang 13.1.1 Pinning Down the Demoness 13.1.2 Flood Control 13.1.3 Grand Prostrations 10.1.4 The Great Prayer Festival 13.2 The Potala and the Dalai Lamas 13.2.1 Finding a New Dalai Lama 13.3 Scholars and Mad Saints 13.3.1 Drepung Monastery and Monastic Studies 13.3.2 Mad Monks: the Case of Tangtong Gyalpo 13.4 Samding: Female Incarnations and a Contemporary Buddhist 13.5 A Tibetan Dharma Center in Vermont, U.S.A. 13.6 Conclusion Appendices Appendix A: A Short Chronology of Buddhism in India Appendix B: A Short Chronology of Buddhism in Sri Lanka Appendix C: A Short Chronology of Buddhism in Myanmar (Burma) Appendix D: A Short Chronology of Buddhism in Cambodia Appendix E: A Short Chronology of Buddhism in Thailand Appendix F: A Short Chronology of Buddhism in China Appendix G: A Short Chronology of Buddhism in Japan Appendix H: A Short Chronology of Buddhism in Vietnam Appendix I: A Short Chronology of Buddhism in Tibet Bibliography of Works Cited Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book explains the Eightfold Path to end suffering by cultivating wisdom through mental training. It emphasizes a balanced middle path and covers aspects like right view, intention, speech, action, livelihood, effort, mindfulness, and concentration with practical examples. The final chapter discusses enlightenment in the Buddhist path.

Read more less

Book SynopsisOutline of the seven books in the Abhidhamma Pitaka by Nyanatiloka Mahathera, aiming to clarify the complex structure of the Abhidhamma works. Essential for students seeking an introduction and overview of the collection.

Read more less

Book SynopsisDemystifies Buddhism by explaining, without jargon or obscure terminology, what awakening is and how to practise it.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis booklet contains essays on the four sublime states (brahmavihara) of love, compassion, sympathetic joy, and equanimity by Ven. Nyanaponika Thera and Ven. Nanamoli Thera. Nyanaponika describes all four states with contemplation exercises, while Nanamoli focuses on metta with translations from the Pali Canon.

Read more less

Book SynopsisVenerable Maha Kaccana, though not always with the Buddha, was highly respected for his intellect, insight into Dhamma, and speaking skills. Other monks sought his help in understanding the Buddha's teachings due to his profound understanding and clarity in explanations.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis59 beautifully designed cards on the classic Buddhist practice of lojong for everyday inspiration and contemplation--with instructive commentaries by Pema Chödrön to make the teachings accessible and applicable to contemporary life.Let compassion and fearlessness guide you and you’ll live wisely and effectively in good times and bad. Here Pema Chödrön offers a powerful method to awaken these qualities using a practice called lojong, which has been a primary focus of her teachings and personal practice for many years. In this boxed set, she provides all the tools needed to practice it in your own life. It includes: * an introduction to the practice * fifty-nine cards representing the full set of lojong teachings for daily inspiration and contemplation * practical commentary from Pema on the reverse of each card * a card stand for easy display * and an audio download of Pema’s teachings on the related practice of tonglen.These cards were previously published as part of The Compassion Box.

Read more less

Book SynopsisEnduring and accessible advice for living with wisdom and compassion?and meeting the end of life with courage and peace Through countless editions and across centuries, The Tibetan Book of the Dead has drawn readers intrigued by the Tibetan Buddhist view of the end of life. In a world that often ignores death or hides it from view, Tibetan Buddhists acknowledge it as the last of a countless series of endings in this lifetime. And after each ending comes a new beginning. The Tibetan Book of the Dead for Beginners draws on this timeless wisdom to help readers today live with more joy and approach the end with more ease. Lama Lhanang Rinpoche, born and raised in Tibet and now teaching in the United States and internationally, partners with student and meditation teacher Mordy Levine to share teachings inspired by The Tibetan Book of the Dead. They make clear that "how we live is how we will die." The book explores karma, impermanence, the bardos (or the "in-between"), and what happens next, sharing accessible practices to cultivate wisdom and compassion along the way. With empathy and warmth, Lama Lhanang and Levine offer support for readers grappling with their own mortality and those caring for loved ones transitioning from this lifetime. The Tibetan Book of the Dead for Beginners helps readers cultivate courage and embrace the unknown?not just in the final days, but every day.

Read more less

Book SynopsisPresents an anthology of discourses from the "Pali Canon", providing an account of Buddhist teachings from the earliest primary sources. 17 discourses are provided, including those essential to the study and teaching of early Buddhism. Additional support materials include helpful footnotes, a select bibliography, and a glossary of key terms.

Read more less