Buddhism Books

Book SynopsisThis volume explores the interaction between text and image in Indian Buddhist contexts, including not only the complex relationship between verbal stories and visual representations at Indian sites, but also the ways in which visual imagery is used within textual narratives. The chapters are authored by a mixture of textual scholars and art historians, bringing together different disciplinary perspectives in order to seek a richer understanding of how text and art relate, and of the role of narrative imagery in different media and contexts. The book opens with an introduction that explores what narratives and visual narratives are, and why we might want to study narrative images alongside imagery-rich literary narratives. The volume is then divided into three parts. The chapters in Part I: Visual Narratives (Zaghet, Reddy, Zin) explore visual depictions of stories in their own right; those in Part II: Narrative Networks (Mace, Appleton & Clark, Strong) seek to understand the relationship between specific visual and verbal narratives; and those in Part III: Narrative Visions (Gummer, Fiordalis, Walters) primarily investigate how visual imagery and visualisation work in textual narratives. The volume seeks to bridge the divide that traditionally exists between textual scholars and art historians, and to challenge the contributors to think beyond the usual boundaries of our work.Table of ContentsPreface 1. Setting the Scene: Verbal and Visual Narrative in Indian Buddhism Naomi Appleton PART I: VISUAL NARRATIVES 2. Rethinking Chronology and Narrative Modes: The Case of Sanchi Stūpa 2 Flavia Zaghet 3. The Power of Image and Imagery: Visualising the Divine and the Human in the Painted Narratives of Ajanta Madhulika Reddy, University of Mumbai 4. Visualizing a Teaching: Sermon Scenes in Kucha Monika Zin, Leipzig University PART II: NARRATIVE NETWORKS 5. Localizing Narrative through Image: The Nun Utpalavarṇā in a Stone Relief from Kaushambi Sonya Rhie Mace, Clevelenad Museum of Art 6. Beyond Textual and Visual “Versions”: The Story Cluster of the Six-Tusked Elephant Bodhisattva Naomi Appleton and Chris Clark 7. Interpretations and (Mis)understandings: Three Case Studies of Illustrations of the Buddha’s Lifestory John S. Strong, Bates College, Maine PART III: NARRATIVE VISIONS 8. The Buddha as Spiritual Sovereign: Narrative Figurations of Knowledge and Power David Fiordalis, Linfield University, Oregon 9. Seeing the Dharma: Narrative Darśan in the Vimalakīrtinirdeśa Natalie Gummer, Beloit College, Wisconsin 10. Making Senses of the Story: Narrative, Art and Affect in Ancient India Jonathan Walters, Whitman College, Washington

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Book SynopsisDo you want to be happier? Find inner calm? Enjoy a rich and rewarding life? Here's how... The Buddha in Me, the Buddha in You combines the tried-and-tested wisdom of Nichiren Buddhism with the best of popular psychology and personal development, making this a brilliant guide to how life works, and how to get the most from it. Nichiren Buddhism differs from other Buddhist schools in its focus on the here-and-now, and places great importance on individual growth as the starting point for a better world. This, combined with powerful techniques such as NLP, mindfulness, journalling and coaching, makes The Buddha in Me, the Buddha in You the quintessential handbook for happiness.'Buddha' simply means someone who is awakened - yet while Nichiren Buddhists will find fascinating insights into their practice, there is no need to follow a spiritual path to benefit from this book. Through his experience as an internationally acclaimed life coach and practising Buddhist, author David Hare shows us how to wake up to our own potential and that of those around us – to discover everyday enlightenment.Trade ReviewA powerful and important message for a time of turbulence and confusion – with verve, wit and plenty of practical, doable tips. A winning combination! -- Eddy Canfor-Dumas, author of The Buddha, Geoff and MeAn inspiration to anyone who wants to make fast and forever changes in their lives….It will help you discover who you really are. -- David Taylor, author of The Naked LeaderMuch to offer to anyone prepared to ask fundamental questions about their life, and where it's going… -- William Woollard, author of The Reluctant Buddhist

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Book SynopsisBorn in Hue, Vietnam, Thich Nhat Hanh was a Buddhist Zen Master, poet, scholar and human rights activist. In 1967, he was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize by Martin Luther King. He founded the Van Hanh Buddhist University in Saigon, the School of Youth and Social Service and the Plum Village Buddhist community and meditation centre in France, where he lived for many years. He was the author of many acclaimed books including The Miracle of Mindfulness, Old Path White Clouds and Fear, which have sold millions of copies around the world. In 2018, he returned to Vietnam to live at the Tu Hieu Temple, where he was first ordained when he was sixteen years old. He died on 22 January 2022, at the age of 95.

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Book SynopsisExplore the potential of your heart and discover a warmer, more loving you. The second in this "Art of Meditation" series by Western Buddhist meditation teacher Vessantara after "The Breath", this book shows us how cultivating more warmth, more kindness, and more happiness is possible for all of us. Through the loving-kindness meditation, the gentle and encouraging approach of the author helps us to discover the positive wonder of what is already in our hearts. Accessible for those new to or experienced in meditation as well as teachers, this book provides clear instruction with suggestions for integrating meditation and what we can learn from it into our lives.

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Book SynopsisThis book introduces the mind, as distinct from the brain, and invites the reader to explore and develop their mind using scientific methods taught by Buddha. It shows how the problems we encounter in life do not exist outside of ourself, but are part of our mind that experiences unpleasant feelings. Learning to control our mind, especially our desire, is the only way to bring all our problems to an end.

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Book SynopsisIn this volume are collected two works that complement each other very well, each being in its own way at the heart of Sangharakshita's writings. A Survey of Buddhism was first published in 1957, and Lama Anagarika Govinda wrote of that first edition, 'It would be difficult to find a single book in which the history and development of Buddhist thought has been described as vividly and clearly as in this survey. For all those who wish to know the heart, the essence of Buddhism as an integrated whole, there can be no better guide than this book.' The Survey, whose ninth edition is reproduced here, continues to provide an indispensable study of the entire field of Buddhist thought and practice, covering all major doctrines and traditions, and placing their development in historical and cultural context.The Buddha's Noble Eightfold Path of course outlines the best-known formulation of the Buddha's teaching, and if its name sounds archaic, Sangharakshita's vivid explanation of how to follow that path provides a fresh and inspiring guide. Here, to the original text are added seminar extracts that give a range of helpful perspectives on the stages of the path. This volume includes a full section of endnotes locating the teachings to the suttas and sutras that inspired them, as well as a Foreword by Dharmachari Subhuti looking at these two texts from an inspirational and a critical perspective, and bringing out the inner connection between them.

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Book SynopsisAnalayo offers an inspiring biography of the Buddha based on the early discourses and focusing on his meditative development and practice. By focusing on the Buddha as a meditator, Analayo seeks to provide inspiration and guidance to all meditators, of any tradition and of any level of experience. Each of the twenty-four chapters concludes with suggestions to support meditative practice.Trade ReviewIn this work, Bhikkhu Analayo applies his consummate knowledge of the textual collections of Early Buddhism to the task of constructing a biography of the Buddha that focuses on his life as a meditator. The book not only paints a very human picture of the Buddha's life, but through the exercises attached to each chapter it enables the reader to join the Buddha on his quest for enlightenment and beyond, into his mission as a teacher and through to his parinirvana or passing away. While offering a scholarly portrait of the Buddha, this book is also a testament to the overarching unity of the various early Buddhist schools in their conception of the Buddha's life, a unity that coexists along with a rich diversity in their detailed narrations about particular events in that life. - Ven. Bhikkhu BodhiTable of ContentsINTRODUCTION 1 THE MOTIVATION TO GO FORTH 2 MORAL CONDUCT AND FEAR 3 OBSTACLES TO CONCENTRATION 4 ABSORPTION 5 THE IMMATERIAL ATTAINMENTS 6 FORCEFUL CONTROL OF THE MIND 7 BREATH CONTROL 8 FASTING 9 FINDING THE PATH 10 DETERMINATION 11 RECOLLECTION OF PAST LIVES 12 THE DIVINE EYE 13 AWAKENING 14 THE DECISION TO TEACH 15 THE TWO EXTREMES 16 THE FOUR NOBLE TRUTHS 17 THE THREE TURNINGS 18 HONOURING THE DHARMA 19 SEEING THROUGH VIEWS 20 DWELLING IN EMPTINESS 21 DAILY CONDUCT 22 TEACHING 23 OLD AGE AND DISEASE 24 FINAL NIRVANA CONCLUSION REFERENCES ABBREVIATIONS

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Book SynopsisIn this volume Sangharakshita approaches communicating Buddhism in the West from two very different, but equally illuminating, angles. In the first part, in talks given in the early years of his teaching in England, he introduces the apparently exotic worlds of Tibetan Buddhism (1965) and its creative symbols (1972) and Zen Buddhism (1965), clarifying their mysteries while also somehow allowing them to work their magic. In the second part, by contrast, he examines the practice of Buddhism in the context of Western culture. In the polemical paper The FWBO and 'Protestant Buddhism' (first published in 1992) he looks at the characteristics of the Triratna community (the FWBO at the time of writing) as it was 25 years after its founding, in a response to an academic's assessment of the nascent Buddhist movement. And in From Genesis to the Diamond Sutra (first published in 2005) he reveals his own attitude to the literature and doctrines of Christianity, including the Christian view of homosexuality, in a multi-faceted exploration which includes autobiographical material not found anywhere else in his written work.

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Book SynopsisMost of us constantly look outside ourselves for something: happiness, love, contentment. But this something is not out there. 'It' is within us. We are full of these qualities: happiness, love, contentment and more. In It's Not Out There, Buddhist teacher and mentor, Danapriya, helps you to look inside yourself in such a way that life becomes more vivid, joyful and extraordinary. If you want to suffer less and to live life more fully, this book is for you. It's about seeing the reality of the human predicament, and seeing through the illusions that create unnecessary pain for yourself and others. This book uncovers the fertile ground of your own potential, and enables you to live the life you are here for. Stop, look, listen and sense, you are worth it.Trade Review'The path of love is bound up with sorrow, the path of beauty with loss. Danapriya's feeling for the deep truth of this - of how to live through and past it - is evident from his own story. His is a life changed by struggle and by his discovery of the Dharma as a pole star for love and the down-to-earth, everyday work that lets it shine.' Candradasa, Director of The Buddhist Centre Online; 'Bravo Danapriya! You have managed to put down concisely yet amusingly the complete guide to a more complete life. I wish I had had access to this book whilst still practising as a GP, it could help so very many sufferers; and I wish I had had it when younger and suffering the vagaries of life myself. The text is dense and requires slow contemplative reading, which is a virtue in itself. It is well worth putting in the time and concentration to read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest!' Dr. Ingrid Dodd, retired GP and Medical Herbalist; 'Written in simple, down-to-earth language, It's Not Out There is brimming with practical wisdom. Positive and encouraging, Danapriya shares ways to help anyone who wants to change their life and find greater happiness and fulfilment.' Dr Paramabandhu Groves, Co-author of Eight Step Recovery: Using the Buddha's Teachings to Overcome Addiction and Mindful Emotion: A Short Course in Kindness, founding director of Breathing Space at the London Buddhist Centre; 'Danapriya has written a little gem of a book. It's Not Out There is concise, straightforward, engaging, accessible and eminently practical. A starter-kit for making the most of your life.' Maitreyabandhu, author of Life with Full Attention and The Journey and the Guide; 'This is a very practical book that can help anyone attempting to navigate life's unpredictable currents without capsizing or being blown off course. The ideas are easy to grasp and Danapriya gives a wealth of useful advice about how to put them into practice. The simplicity of how to stop, look, listen and sense is a message that the world desperately needs at the moment. I'm trying to practise it myself.' Manidhara (Graham Titus), Buddhist musician; 'This thoughtful little book will help you reassess how to live your best life. Using techniques of mindfulness Danapriya explains how to reap the enjoyment from everyday moments. In the manic pace of today's world he helps provide a much needed space for reflection.' Lindsay Powell; 'Danapriya communicates his hard-won wisdom and love in a way that is simple and easy to follow, yet somehow the simplicity makes it all the more challenging. Each short chapter prompted me to ask myself: what more could I be doing to enrich my life and the lives of others? We get some good pointers for the journey.' Satyadasa, founder of Standing Body Health and Buddhist Tutor at Eton College; '"We are 'stuffed full of love", Danapriya tells us and this book is stuffed full of Buddhism wisdom. Reading it is like having a conversation with a wise friend - someone who doesn't just talk at you but who is interested in your thoughts and experience too. Buy one for everyone you know who is serious about life and how to live it well.' Subhadramati, author of Not About Being Good; '"It's not out there, it's here" is a timely reminder of how we all shape our own lives. Danapriya has given us a gentle yet provocative, personal yet universal, straightforward yet tender, account of what it means to be human and the choices and responsibilities that go with it. He gives us the benefit of his years of experience as a Buddhist practitioner to give us frank, accessible insights into the ways we choose or not to live meaningful and fulfilling lives. At times powerfully honest, Danapriya lays it all out on the dinner table in front of us, and in so doing invites us to fully contemplate the meals we are eating and the diet we are choosing.' Paul Swift, Psychotherapist; 'Reading this book is like having a super-encouraging and wise friend who really believes in you, and wants you to be the best you can possibly be!' Vajragupta, Buddhist teacher and writer, author of Buddhism: Tools for Living Your Life

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Book SynopsisThe book features posthumous papers of English monk-scholar Nyanamoli, renowned for translating Pali Buddhist texts. It includes short notes and essays on deep subjects like ontology, metaphysics, and logic, with touches of humor, irony, and poetry. Notable essays include Pathways of Buddhist Thought.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Bougdaeva produces a lively, readable text that mimics the compactness and rapidity of the Kalmyk line." * Journal of Folklore Research Reviews *Table of ContentsContents List of Illustrations Introduction JANGAR Prologue Cycle 1. How Shaman Golden Heart Joined Jangar’s Khanate Cycle 2. How Scarlet Lion Khongor Got Married Cycle 3. How Scarlet Lion Khongor Fought with Mighty Hero Jilgan Khan Cycle 4. How Scarlet Lion Khongor Defeated Khan Iron Head Mangna Cycle 5. How Alya Monkhlya Stole Great Khan Jangar’s Eighteen Thousand Golden Palominos Cycle 6. How Mingian, the Finest Man in the Universe, Stole Ten Thousand Pintos from Turk Khan Cycle 7. How Mingian, the Finest Man in the Universe, Captured Mighty Kurmen Khan Cycle 8. How Serious Sanal Defeated the Country of Half-Human Giants Cycle 9. How Savar Heavy Arm Defeated Kilgan Khan Cycle 10. How Three Sons Captured Mighty Badmin Ulan Glossary

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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

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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.

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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.

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Book SynopsisReceived wisdom has it that Buddhism disappeared from India, the land of its birth, between the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries, long forgotten until British colonial scholars re-discovered it in the early 1800s. Its full-fledged revival, so the story goes, only occurred in 1956, when the Indian civil rights pioneer Dr. B.R. Ambedkar converted to Buddhism along with half a million of his Dalit (formerly "untouchable") followers. This, however, is only part of the story. Dust on the Throne reframes discussions about the place of Buddhism in the subcontinent from the early nineteenth century onwards, uncovering the integral, yet unacknowledged, role that Indians played in the making of modern global Buddhism in the century prior to Ambedkar's conversion, and the numerous ways that Buddhism gave powerful shape to modern Indian history. Through an extensive examination of disparate materials held at archives and temples across South Asia, Douglas Ober explores Buddhist religious dynamics in an age of expanding colonial empires, intra-Asian connectivity, and the histories of Buddhism produced by nineteenth and twentieth century Indian thinkers. While Buddhism in contemporary India is often disparaged as being little more than tattered manuscripts and crumbling ruins, this book opens new avenues for understanding its substantial socio-political impact and intellectual legacy.Trade Review"This is the first comprehensive study in any language of the revival of interest in Buddhism in nineteenth and twentieth-century India. It transforms the way we view modern Indian religious and political life. Through careful archival investigation, Douglas Ober uncovers numerous sources and topics that have been ignored or dealt with in piecemeal fashion. He uses this array of materials to create a compelling argument for the vital of importance of Buddhism in modern Indian religious life, politics, intellectual history, and culture. By highlighting the contributions of Indian scholars, advocates, and practitioners to the revival of Buddhism in twentieth-century India, Ober gives us a much more accurate picture of modern global Buddhism. This is a major, foundational contribution to religious and Buddhist history."—Richard Jaffe, author of Seeking Sakyamuni: South Asia in the Formation of Modern Japanese Buddhism"This is a book I've been waiting for—a powerful account of the contestations and challenges that marked the return of Buddhism to the public sphere. It forces us to think of the role of human agency in shaping the present and future in India—perhaps even in the world."—Uma Chakravarti, author of The Social Dimensions of Early Buddhism"It is a fantastic read, almost like a detective novel in parts, and you turn the page wondering how Buddhism was discovered, how it fared in various contexts. Douglas Ober's mastery of sources, his adept linking of various geographies, ideas, and events are so effortlessly done that they belie the immense labor and reading and writing that have no doubt gone into the making of this book."—V Geetha, author of Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar and the Question of Socialism in India "This splendid book overturns the standard but faulty story of Buddhism's supposed disappearance from India by the thirteenth century. It completely recasts our understanding of modern Buddhism and its role in nineteenth and twentieth-century India. A marvelous combination of history, philosophy, and story-telling, Dust on the Throne is essential reading for anyone who wishes to understand Buddhism in our world today."—Evan Thompson, author ofWaking, Dreaming, Being andWhy I Am Not a Buddhist"An engrossing and lively account of how modern India 'rediscovered' and re-engaged with Buddhism in the last two centuries, featuring a cast of compelling historical characters.Going far beyond standard assumptions and understandings about the decline and revival of Buddhism in India,Dust on the Throne is a must-read for all who are interested in south Asian history, both recent and ancient."—Tony Joseph, author of Early Indians: The Story of Our Ancestors and Where We Came From"Dust on the Throne offers a new perspective on the history of Buddhism in India during the colonial period and early years of Independence. Marshalling an array of evidence that foregrounds the role of individuals and institutions (some known, some forgotten) in the context of subcontinental and global networks, it dispels many long-cherished notions about Buddhism's decline and revival in its homeland, offering a convincing alternative narrative."—Upinder Singh, author of History of Ancient and Early Medieval India"Douglas Ober's Dust on the Throne weaves a fascinating history of individuals, institutions, and events that animated modern Buddhism. The book provides rare insights into a range offorgotten Indianswhose contributions were as impressive as those of better-known colonials.Its exploration of the footprint of Buddhist discourses among the masses is equally captivating. This will remain a definitive study on the many streams that constituted the quest for Buddhism inModern India."—Nayanjot Lahiri, author of Ashoka in Ancient India"[Dust on the Throne] is vast and dense, shining light on many of the Indian historians, scholars, translators, ethnographers, and laborers whose engagement with ancient and modern Buddhism galvanized 19th- and 20th-century public discourse. Rather than fragmented, however, the confluence of geographies, perspectives, and demographics demonstrate how dynamic and complex local expertise and agency in the resurgence of Buddhism within India have been."—Liesl Schwabe, Los Angeles Review of Books"Ober's exhaustive survey assembles Buddhism's disparate histories from different regions of modern India and contextualizes the formation of its multiple stands. He effectively dismantles the idea of European discovery of Buddhism and challenges the overemphasis on the contribution of Dharmapala and Ambedkar's scholarship."—Abishek Singh Amar, Tricycle"Dust on the Throne: The Search for Buddhism in Modern India, an erudite study by the historian Douglas Ober, is an exception to the brahmin-centric trend, and an outstanding intervention for many reasons. Right from its thoughtful title – which captures the deep history and 'revival' of the region's Buddhist past – the book tells us a different story than the brahmin-centric narratives of so much other scholarship. Ober shows how the widespread notion that Buddhism in the Subcontinent had died by the thirteenth century or earlier, and showed no trace of life into the modern period, is at most a 'useful fiction', if not a foolish conclusion outright."—Gajendran Ayyathurai, Himal SouthasianTable of Contents0. Introduction 1. The Agony of Memory 2. Dispelling Darkness 3. Banyan Tree Buddhism 4. Brahmanizing Buddhism 5. The Snake and the Mongoose 6. When the Buddha met Marx 7. The Buddha Nation Conclusion: Conclusion

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Book SynopsisThe Light of Wisdom Vol. I contains the root terma ---hidden treasure text --- of Padmasambhava, The Gradual Path of the Wisdom Essence and its commentary The Light of Wisdom by Jamgon Kongtrul the Great. Annotations on the commentary Entering the Path of Wisdom spoken by Jamyang Drakpa and recorded by Jokyab Rinpoche are included as well as clarifications from other masters. Volume I presents in-depth explanations of the Vajrajana Buddhist perspective. It begins with the nature of the ground, the buddha nature present in all beings, continues with the teachings that are common to all vehicles, and concludes with the Mahayana and the link to Vajrayana.This essence of the causal and resultant vehicles,Especially the core of the realization the three sections of the inner tantras,Linking together the ground with the path,Makes you abandon the temporary defilements along with their tendencies,Realize fruition and quickly accomplish the welfare of self and others,In this way it is in conformity with each yet exalted above them all. -PadmasambhavaThe root text of Lamrim Yeshe Nyingpo, a terma revealed by the great treasure- finder Chokgyur Lingpa, and its commentary by Kongtrul Rinpoche, the great translator in person, form together a complete scripture that embodies all the tantras, statements and instructions of the Nyingma School of the early translations, which is most rare to find in the past, present, or future. -Kyabje Dilgo Kyentse Rinpoche

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Book SynopsisBuddhism 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) which 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 books provides a stimulating introduction to Buddhism as a religion and way of life, which will also be of interest to those who are more familiar with the subject.Trade Reviewoffers a valuable improvement over What the Buddha Taught, its most likely competitor as an introductory textbook./Richard S. Cohen University of California, San Diego/ Religious Studies Review Volume 25 Number 3 July 1999At last! A general introduction to what is common to Buddhism across the broad range of practice, culture and history that I can recommend unhesitatingly to friends Buddhist and non-Buddhist alike. ... this book is good in the beginning, middle and end. I cannot recommend it highly enough. Mike Murray/The Middle Way/Journal of the Buddhist Society/ Feb 2000 Vol 74 No 4'...Combining as it does readability and exact scholarship, elegance and erudition, this new OPUS series volume provides the novice with a solid foundation for his studies, and his elders food for reflection.' * THES Friday 2 April 1999 *This recent title stands out by its careful scholarship, lucid style, and sensitive appreciation of the subtleties of Buddhist doctrine.. This introductory work brings to its task not only careful scholarship and wide knowledge of Buddhist thought, but also a warm, sympathetic appreciation of Buddhism evident throughout its pages. No doubt, it is this sympathy that enables Gethin to penetrate beneath the surface crust of formal doctrine and discern deep connections between srains of Buddhist thought that might initially appear incongruous. Through Gethin's eyes we are given not only a clear and crisp picture of the doctrinal foundations of Buddhism, but also focused insights into the family ties underlying many apparent diversities within the Buddhist tradition. * Bhikkhu Bodhi, Buddhist Publication Society no 45 *Table of ContentsIntroduction ; 1. The Buddha: The Story of the Awakened One ; 2. The Word of the Buddha: Buddhist Scriptures and Schools ; 3. Four Truths: The Disease, the Cause, the Cure, the Medicine ; 4. The Buddhist Community: Monks, Nuns, and Lay Followers ; 5. The Buddhist Cosmos: The Thrice Thousandfold World ; 6. No self: Personal Continuity and Dependent Arising ; 7. The Buddhis Path: The Way of Calm and Insight ; 8. The Abhidharma: The Higher Teaching ; 9. The Mahayana: The Great Vehicle ; 10. Evolving Traditions of Buddhism

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Book Synopsis''This transformational book will help you calm your mind, remove negativity and find inner peace.'' Jay Shetty, author of Think Like a Monk''The perfect manual for the mind, bringing deep insight to today''s world and offering practical tools for transformation'' Gelong Thubten, author of A Monk''s Guide to Happiness _______________________________________________________________________________In this hectic, modern world, the practice of meditation is the greatest way to calm your mind and find peace.A collection of teachings from one of the world''s wisest minds, the lessons in this book have transformed the lives of people across the world and have never been more pertinent. In this book world-renowned meditation master, Lama Yeshe,shares how meditation enabled him to overcome the strains and pressures of modern life and find peace - and reveals how we can all do the same.He teaches us that our minds Trade ReviewThis transformational book will help you calm your mind, remove negativity and find inner peace. * Jay Shetty, bestselling author of THINK LIKE A MONK *The perfect manual for the mind, bringing deep insight to today's world and offering practical tools for transformation * Gelong Thubten, author of A MONK'S GUIDE TO HAPPINESS *Written with real simplicity and compassion. Read this book if you want to learn something practical to find lasting peace and stability, inside, rather than in the paraphernalia of modern life. * Desmond Biddulph, vice-president of the British Buddhist Society *A book to meet the need of the time. Lama Yeshe shares his extensive personal experience in a loving and devoted way that will inspire many to better understand the Buddhist teachings and find more peace in their lives. * Jillian Lavender, co-founder of the London Meditation Centre *'The perfect manual for the mind, bringing deep insight to today's world' * Gelong Thubten, author of A Monk’s Guide to Happiness *

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Book SynopsisThe book features advanced insights on higher knowledge by Ledi Sayadaw, covering topics like Dependent Origination, Kamma, Nibbana. Intended for those familiar with his works, it includes The Manual of the Path of Higher Knowledge and The Manual of Light, previously unpublished in English.

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Book SynopsisThe text discusses the Buddha's final journey, emphasizing the importance of practicing his teachings. Translated by Sister Vajira in 1964, revised by Francis Story, and updated in 1998 for a more modern translation. Described as a small classic, it narrates the Buddha's last days and instructions to his disciples.

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Book SynopsisFrom his many births to his deathbed deeds, this authoritative biography unites the Buddha of history with the Buddha of legend in a bid to reveal the lasting spiritual relevance at the heart of the Buddhist tradition. Acclaimed scholar John Strong examines not only the historical texts, but also the supernatural accounts that surround this great religious figure, uncovering the roots of many Buddhist beliefs and practices. Accompanied by helpful charts and tables, and drawing on a vast array of primary sources, the text also features such key topics as: biographical accounts from all the Buddhist schools, an analysis of the Buddha’s enlightenment, the life of the Buddha as depicted by Buddhist art and rituals, and the relics of Siddhartha Gautama, and how they continue his story, even after his lifetime.Trade Review"Furnishes readers curious about the Buddha with a deep and broad introduction to his many lives." * Booklist *

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Book SynopsisSasson's new book is a retelling of the story of the women's request for ordination. Inspired in particular by the Therigatha and building on years of research and experience in the field, Sasson follows Vimala, Patachara, Bhadda Kundalakesa, and many others as they walk through the forest to request full access to the tradition. The Buddha's response to this request is famously complicated and multi-faceted; he eventually accepts women into the Order, but attaches specific and controversial conditions (garudhammas). Sasson invites us to think about who these first Buddhist women might have been, what they hoped to achieve, and what these conditions might have meant to them thereafter. By shaping her research into a story, Sasson invites readers to imagine a world that continues to inspire and complicate Buddhist narrative to this day.Table of ContentsIntroduction Many Years Later: Vimala Remembers Chapter 1: The Buddha Said No Chapter 2: Vimala’s Story Begins Chapter 3: The Leap Chapter 4: The Gathering Chapter 5: The Past Comes Charging In Many Years Later: Vimala and Darshani Chapter 6: The Walking Begins Chapter 7: Patachara Chapter 8: Beads and Mirrors Chapter 9: The Long Road Chapter 10: Flying Horses Chapter 11: The Flying Sage Chapter 12: River Mud Chapter 13: Vesali Chapter 14: Hollowed-Out Mess Chapter 15: The Great Woman Tree Chapter 16: Bhadda Kundalakesa Chapter 17: Muttering and Mad Chapter 18: Motherhood Lost and Found Chapter 19: Ananda Chapter 20: The Eight Heavies Many Years Later: The Great Immensity Study Questions

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Book SynopsisIn a time of social distancing and isolation, a meditation on the beauty of solitudeTrade Review“The Art of Solitude is a marvel. Carefully constructed and entirely original, it sings with a haunting melody of wistful contemplation. Reading it is a true joy.”—Mark Epstein, author of Thoughts without a Thinker“Forty years in the making, The Art of Solitude could not have come at a better time or from anyone else. Beautifully written, Batchelor’s wisdom shines through on every page, leading the reader on an engaging and illuminating journey into the very needed solitude about which he writes.”—Judson Brewer, author of The Craving Mind“With his long experience of Buddhism, meditation, and teaching it is hard to think of anyone better equipped to write about the art of solitude than Stephen Batchelor.”—Tim Parks“In this exquisite contemplation on solitude that is intimate, brave, and wise, Batchelor brings us to the vast center of his life and realization.”—Roshi Joan Halifax, Abbot, Upaya Zen Center“Batchelor's graceful writing guides us to the innermost recesses of solitude, illuminating it as a practice, way of life, and inescapable dimension of being human.”—Evan Thompson, author of Why I Am Not a Buddhist and Waking, Dreaming, Being

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Book SynopsisBuddhism is all about training the mind, and boot camp is an ideal training method for this generation's short attention span. This title includes chapters that are simple and easy to understand.

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Book SynopsisThe earliest examples of Buddhist studies originating in the Western world tended to frame Buddhism as a religion similar to Abrahamic monotheisms. This involved, among other things, an emphasis on philological, doctrinal, and textual studies, as well as an assumption that the Buddha compares directly to the messianic figures central to other traditions. Starting in the late twentieth century, Buddhist studies scholars have been creatively moving outside of this rubric, and indeed outside of the familiar boundaries of the academy. This movement has allowed them to examine subjects, perspectives, and methodologies not previously engaged by the mainstream of Buddhist studies. Such a wider approach fosters greater awareness of external versus internal critiques of the religion, inclusion of new disciplines and previously marginalized voices, and an appreciation of the decentralized nature of Buddhism and the varied personal experiences of lived practice. As a result, Buddhist studies has attracted a growing audience within the humanities and has been at the forefront of the discourse on cultural exchange, globalization, colonialism and postcolonialism, and the ongoing changes in the religious landscape. Reflecting these innovations, The Oxford Encyclopedia of Buddhism is a first-of-its-kind reference project: a systematic effort to identify and analyze the ways in which Buddhist studies continues to develop, the new sub-fields of inquiry, and the evolving relationships between the related disciplines. Consisting of 138 in-depth articles, the Encyclopedia covers several major thematic areas, including historical and historiographical studies, historical figures, buddhas and deities, regional studies, global and diasporic Buddhism, art and architecture, contemporary social and academic issues, rituals, philosophical and doctrinal studies, textual and philological studies, and the most influential educational institutions. Moreover, the Encyclopedia frames Buddhist studies as a field rather than as a discipline, meaning that it covers a rich variety of intellectual projects. This approach balances independent specialized studies with interconnected and interdisciplinary studies, inviting research that is both sharper and more nuanced. It is this perspective, gazing toward the future of the field, that marks the volume as an essential work of contemporary scholarship and an organically evolving encyclopedia for study and research.

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Book SynopsisThis volume offers a rich and accessible introduction to contemporary research on Buddhist ethical thought for interested students and scholars, yet also offers chapters taking up more technical philosophical and textual topics. A Mirror is For Reflection offers a snapshot of the present state of academic investigation into the nature of Buddhist Ethics, including contributions from many of the leading figures in the academic study of Buddhist philosophy. Over the past decade many scholars have come to think that the project of fitting Buddhist ethical thought into Western philosophical categories may be of limited utility, and the focus of investigation has shifted in a number of new directions. This volume includes contemporary perspectives on topics including the nature of Buddhist ethics as a whole, karma and rebirth, mindfulness, narrative, intention, free will, politics, anger, and equanimity.Trade ReviewThe paradox of Buddhist ethics, as any philosophical paradox, can humble people in their dangerous religious certainties and start them wondering afresh about the best way to live their lives during troubling times. Buddhist practitioners are also credited to provide strong exemplars in the world of people who practice what they preach (or rather, decline to preach) and who strive for modest, morally exemplary lives, grounded in kindness. After all, if there is no self, what point exists in acting self-servingly? For these reasons alone, Buddhist ethics constitutes a worthy contemplation. Thanks for this new volume that rethinks how that paradox arises and how it may be resolved, for that inquiry itself constitutes good works. * Wendy C. Hamblet, Metapsychology *Table of ContentsForeword Owen Flanagan Introduction Jake H. Davis Part One: Buddhist Ethics and Western Categories 1. 'It's ethics, Jim, but not as we know it': Reflections on the Absence of Moral Philosophy in Buddhism Damien Keown 2. The Nature of a Buddhist Path Bronwyn Finnigan 3. Buddhist Moral Thought and Western Moral Philosophy Christopher W. Gowans Part Two: Constructing Buddhist Ethics 4. Zen Buddhism and the Space of Ethics Jin Y. Park 5. Buddhist Ethics: A Perspective Graham Priest 6. Breaking Good: Moral Agency, Neuroethics, and the Spontaneity of Compassion Christian Coseru Part Three: Karma and Rebirth 7. Modern and Traditional Understandings of Karma Charles Goodman 8. Buddhism without Reincarnation? Examining the Prospects of a "Naturalized" Buddhism Jan Westerhoff 9. The Problems and Promise of Karma from an Engaged Buddhist Perspective Sallie B. King Part Four: Mindfulness, Memory, and Virtue 10. Ethical Reading and the Ethics of Forgetting and Remembering Sara McClintock 11. Mindfulness and Ethics: Attention, Virtue and Perfection Jay L. Garfield 12. "When You Know for Yourselves": Mindfulness, Wisdom, and the Qualities of Heart Jake H. Davis Part Five: Intention and Action 13. The Dynamics of Intention, Freedom, and Habituation according to Vasubandhu's Abhidharmakosabhasya Karin Meyers 14. What Do Buddhists Think about Free Will? Riccardo Repetti 15. Buddhist Reductionist Action Theory Mark Siderits Part Six: Politics, Anger, and Equanimity 16. The Inherent Dignity of Empty Persons Christopher Kelley 17. Ethics Without Justice: Eliminating The Roots Of Resentment Amber Carpenter 18. Equanimity in Relationship: Responding to Moral Ugliness Emily McRae Index

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Book SynopsisMichael Carrithers guides us through the complex and sometimes conflicting information that Buddhist texts give about the life and teaching of the Buddha. He discusses the social and political background of India in the Buddha''s time, and traces the development of his thought. He also assesses the rapid and widespread assimilation of Buddhism and its contemporary relevance.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 Reviewadmirably well-paced and informative. * Galen Strawson, Sunday Times *Table of Contents1. Introduction ; 2. Early life and renunciation ; 3. To the awakening ; 4. The awakening ; 5. The mission and the death ; Further reading ; Index

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Book SynopsisJan Westerhoff unfolds the story of one of the richest episodes in the history of Indian thought, the development of Buddhist philosophy in the first millennium CE. He starts from the composition of the Abhidharma works before the beginning of the common era and continues up to the time of Dharmakirti in the sixth century. This period was characterized by the development of a variety of philosophical schools and approaches that have shaped Buddhist thought up to the present day: the scholasticism of the Abhidharma, the Madhyamaka''s theory of emptiness, Yogacara idealism, and the logical and epistemological works of Dinnaga and Dharmakirti. The book attempts to describe the historical development of these schools in their intellectual and cultural context, with particular emphasis on three factors that shaped the development of Buddhist philosophical thought: the need to spell out the contents of canonical texts, the discourses of the historical Buddha and the Mahayana sutras; the desire to defend their positions by sophisticated arguments against criticisms from fellow Buddhists and from non-Buddhist thinkers of classical Indian philosophy; and the need to account for insights gained through the application of specific meditative techniques. While the main focus is the period up to the sixth century CE, Westerhoff also discusses some important thinkers who influenced Buddhist thought between this time and the decline of Buddhist scholastic philosophy in India at the beginning of the thirteenth century. His aim is that the historical presentation will also allow the reader to get a better systematic grasp of key Buddhist concepts such as non-self, suffering, reincarnation, karma, and nirvana.Trade Review'A remarkable accomplishment especially for its consistent emphasis on a systematic engagement with Buddhist philosophy' * Birgit Kellner, Asiatische Studien - Études Asiatiques *'A rich and significant contribution both to Buddhist scholarship in the West and to its philosophical richness' * Graham Priest, Religious Studies *'One of the landmark monographs charting the trajectory of Indian Buddhist philosophy' * Rafal Stepien, Journal of the Oxford Centre for Buddhist Studies *'Simply the best high-level introduction to Buddhist philosophy now available' * Dhavan Thomas Jones, Western Buddhist Review *'a highly readable and most valuable achievement of sustained and brilliant scholarship' * Douglas Berger,Journal of Buddhist Ethics 26 *'An ambitious and thorough addition to the Oxford History of Philosophy series. This book, written by an eminent specialist in the field of Buddhist philosophy, serves as an advanced introduction to a fertile period of philosophy' * Ethan Mills, Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews *Table of ContentsIntroduction 1: Abhidharma 2: Madhyamaka 3: Yogacara 4: The School of Dinnaga and Dharmakirti

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Book SynopsisWhat are angels? Where were they first encountered? Can we distinguish angels from gods, fairies, ghosts, and aliens? And why do they remain so popular? This Very Short Introduction outlines some of the more prominent stories and speculations about angels in Judaism, Islam, Christianity and post-Christian spiritualities. It reflects on the way that angels have been portrayed in art, whether as young men in the Hebrew Scriptures, androgynous winged creatures of the pre-Raphaelites or the masculine statue of the Angel of the North. It will also consider angels in films such as Wim Wenders'' Wings of Desire, and Frank Capra''s It''s a Wonderful Life, as well as angels in literature.From the idea of the angel as a messenger, through to the image of angels sent to protect and help those in need, this is an examination of the implications of angels. It will ask why people find the idea of angels attractive, helpful or consoling, and why they remain so powerful in modern culture. It advances the view that reflecting on angels can teach us something about human existence and whether or not we believe that they exist in their own right, the angels can still illuminate our thoughts.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 ReviewReview from previous edition Small but perfectly formed volume...everyone should have this book. * Peter Brookesmith, Fortean Times *If anybody should know about angels, it's this guy... a very intelligent but very accessibly history. * Kate Saunders, BBC Radio 2 *A colourful and comprehensive overview of our fascination with angels. * Peter Stamford, The Independent *As a guide to the celestial realms, I would put my faith in him any day. * Peter Stamford, The Independent *This is a good book. * Stephen Cave, Financial Times *The first stop for anyone seriously interested in angels. * Christopher Howse, The Telegraph *Table of Contents1. Preface ; 2. A brief history of angels ; 3. Picturing angels ; 4. What is an angel? ; 5. Divine messengers ; 6. Ministering spirits ; 7. Heavenly hosts ; 8. Fallen angels ; 9. Wrestling with angels ; 1. Preface ; 2. A brief history of angels ; 3. Picturing angels ; 4. What is an angel? ; 5. Divine messangers ; 6. Ministering spirits ; 7. Heavenly hosts ; 8. Fallen angels ; 9. Wrestling with angels ; Further reading

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Book SynopsisOf the many Dalai Lama titles on sale, THE ART OF HAPPINESS - written with western psychiatrist Howard Cutler - is by far the biggest bestseller of them all. A huge international success, it has sold over 2 million copies worldwide, with nearly 300,000 of these in the UK alone. Now, this inspirational new book brings the successful East-meets-West pairing together again to provide a practical application of Tibetan Buddhist spiritual values to the world of work.In this wise and practical book, the Dalai Lama shows us how to place our working lives into the context of our lives as a whole. Rather than striving to find a role which suits us, we should allow our work to arise naturally from who we are - and what is most important to us. From here we reach a pathway that can lead us to true life fulfilment and purpose.Trade Review'If you're dissatisfied at work, or are finding it hard to understand your true calling, this book is for you... Cutler puts into practice the basic principles of the Dalai Lama that can be applied in all areas of your life. THE ART OF HAPPINESS AT WORK is very readable'. * Be Unlimited *

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Book SynopsisOriginating in India, Mahayana Buddhism spread across Asia, becoming the prevalent form of Buddhism in Tibet and East Asia. Over the last twenty-five years Western interest in Mahayana has increased considerably, reflected both in the quantity of scholarly material produced and in the attraction of Westerners towards Tibetan Buddhism and Zen.Paul Williamsâ Mahayana Buddhism is widely regarded as the standard introduction to the field, used internationally for teaching and research and has been translated into several European and Asian languages. This new edition has been fully revised throughout in the light of the wealth of new studies and focuses on the religionâs diversity and richness. It includes much more material on China and Japan, with appropriate reference to Nepal, and for students who wish to carry their study further there is a much-expanded bibliography and extensive footnotes and cross-referencing. Everyone studying this important tradition will find Williamsâ book the ideal companion to their studies.Trade Review"As a reference book, which guides readers through the labyrinth of the enormous Buddhist textual tradition, this work is unsurpassed... Summing up: Recommended." -- A.L. Miller, Miami University, Choice‘The publication of Paul Williams’ Mahayana Buddhism: The Doctrinal Foundations in 1989 was a milestone in the development of Buddhist Studies, being the first truly comprehensive and authoritative attempt to chart the doctrinal landscape of Mahayana Buddhism in its entirety. Previous scholars like Edward Conze and Etienne Lamotte had set themselves this daunting task, but it had proved beyond them. Williams not only succeeded in finishing the job, but did it so well that his book has remained the primary work on the subject, and the textbook of choice for teachers of university courses on Buddhism, for 20 years. It is still unrivalled. This makes a second edition all the more welcome. Williams has extensively revised and updated the book in the light of the considerable scholarship published in this area since 1989, at the same time enlarging many of his thoughtful discussions of Mahayana Buddhist philosophical issues. The result is a tour de force of breadth and depth combined. I confidently expect that Williams’ richly detailed map of this field will remain for decades to come an indispensable guide to all those who venture into it.’ - Paul Harrison, Stanford University, USA

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Book SynopsisReligions in the Modern World: Traditions and Transformations, Third Edition is the ideal textbook for those coming to the study of religion for the first time, as well as for those who wish to keep up-to-date with the latest perspectives in the field. This third edition contains new and upgraded pedagogic features, including chapter summaries, key terms and definitions, and questions for reflection and discussion. The first part of the book considers the history and modern practices of the main religious traditions of the world, while the second analyzes trends from secularization to the rise of new spiritualities. Comprehensive and fully international in coverage, it is accessibly written by practicing and specialist teachers. Trade Review"We often throw a word like 'modern' around, as if we know what it means, or as if there were only one way of getting to or being modern. The present collection of essays on the religions and modernity (and on the modern study of religion) is a powerful reminder that we usually do not know what we are talking about, and that there are multiple religious modernities, each with their own specific political, colonial, economic, psychological, moral, and secular nuances. The volume is a model of comparative theorizing done precisely and deeply."Jeffrey J. Kripal, Rice University, USATable of ContentsIntroduction - Linda Woodhead. 1. How to Study Religion - Kim Knott. 2. Hinduism - David Smith. 3. Buddhism - Cathy Cantwell and Hiroko Kawanami. 4. Sikhism - Gurinder Singh Mann. 5. Chinese Religions - Stephan Feuchtwang. 6. Judaism - Seth Kunin. 7. Christianity - Linda Woodhead. 8. Islam - Anna Bigelow. 9. Religion in Africa - Mark Faulkner. 10. Native American Religions - Kenneth Mello. 11. Spirituality - Giselle Vincett and Linda Woodhead. 12. Paganism - Graham Harvey. 13. Contemporary Esotericism - Kennet Granholm. 14. New Religious Movements - Douglas E. Cowan. 15. Religion and Migration - Manuel Vásquez. 16. Religion and Politics - Paul Djupe. 17. Religion and Violence - Ian Reader. 18. Religion and Gender - Linda Woodhead. 19. Religion and Popular Culture - Christopher Partridge. 20. Secularism and Secularization - Grace Davie, Rebecca Catto, and Linda Woodhead

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Book Synopsis''It isn''t likely that this collection of journal entries will pass the censors. If it can''t be published, I hope my friends will circulate it among themselves. I''ll leave Vietnam tomorrow...'' Thus Thich Nhat Hanh begins his 11 May 1966 journal entry. Since that time, he has been unable to return to his homeland but, now based in France, he has become one of the world''s most respected spiritual leaders. Fragrant Palm Leaves reveals a vulnerable and questioning young man reflecting on the many difficulties he and his fellow monks faced in Vietnam trying to make Buddhism relevant to the people''s needs. We follow him, in 1964, as he helps establish the movement known as ''engaged Buddhism'': starting self-help villages, a new university, a Buddhist order and many other efforts for peace. Fragrant Palm Leaves is regarded by many Vietnamese as Thich Nhat Hanh''s most endearing and stimulating book. It offers readers a glimpse into the mind of a great thinker a

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Book SynopsisIn this classic collection of lectures, Buddhist monk, scholar, poet and peace activist Thich Nhat Hanh shows us that suffering is not enough; for in order to achieve peace, we must be peace. Quite simply, if we are not happy, if we are not peaceful, we cannot share peace and happiness with others. Therefore, Thich Nhat Hanh explains how, if we are to change the world, we must begin with ourselves and awaken the loving potential of our own Buddhist natures. We must learn to smile at the wonders that surround us every day, for if we cannot smile, the world will not have peace.

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Book Synopsis'Sometimes you just have to do something, don't you? This work explores whether it's possible for an ordinary person to change the world, just a little, and if something so serious can be achieved with joy in one's heart. It celebrates the fact that we can make a difference.Trade Review'Fast, funny and inspiring too... Isabel Losada is a writer who can change lives' Joanna Lumley 'Isabel Losada is a twenty-first century hero... someone who is changing the world for the better and will make you want to, too' Harpers and Queen 'Heart-warming and extraordinary...Losada writes perceptively and with humour' Wanderlust 'Compelling reading and the most uplifting experience' Western Daily Press

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Book SynopsisRichard King provides an introduction to the main schools of Hindu and Buddhist thought, emphasising the living history of interaction and debate between the various traditions.Trade ReviewRichard King has written a clear, modern, up-to-date, wide-ranging and accessible introduction to the principal doctrinal postiions and debates in Indian philosophy. It is a balanced book, free from bias in favour of one school or another. King is an accurate, reliable and well-informed expositor. I would say that it is by some margin the best popular survey of Hindu and Buddhist philosophical doctrines on the market today. Richard King has written a clear, modern, up-to-date, wide-ranging and accessible introduction to the principal doctrinal postiions and debates in Indian philosophy. It is a balanced book, free from bias in favour of one school or another. King is an accurate, reliable and well-informed expositor. I would say that it is by some margin the best popular survey of Hindu and Buddhist philosophical doctrines on the market today.

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Book SynopsisDraws on nearly three years of ethnographic research to provide a comprehensive view of Jodo Shinshu (True Pure Land) temple life with temple wives (known as bomori, or temple guardians) at its centre. Throughout, Jessica Starling focuses on domestic religion, a mode of doing religion centering on more informal religious expression.

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Book SynopsisBrand new research on the place where Buddha attained enlightenment: the temple site of Bodhgaya in eastern India.Table of ContentsIntroduction Michael Willis, Sam van Schaik, John Clarke 1. The Mahābodhi Temple Before its Restoration (J. P. Losty) 2. The Āsana: Where the Buddha Sat (Daniela De Simone, Dániel Balogh, Sven Bretfield) 3. Pīṭhīpati Puzzles: Custodians of the Diamond Throne (Dániel Balogh) 4. Early Burmese Inscriptions from Bodhgaya (Tilman Frasch) 5. The Internalisation of the Vajrāsana (Sam van Schaik) 6. Tibetan Inscriptions in the British Museum Archive (Tsering Gonkatsang, Michael Willis) 7. Buddhist Sealings and the ye dharmā Stanza (Peter Skilling) 8. Dhāraṇī Seals in the Cunningham Collection (Gergely Hidas) 9. A Terracotta Plaque with an Old Mon Inscription (Marc Miyake, Tilman Frasch, Michael Willis) 10. Five Terracotta Plaques with Figurative Imagery (Serena Biondo) 11. The Mahābodhi Plaque of the Goddess Mārīcī (Jinah Kim, Kashinath Tamot, Sushma Jansari) 12. From Bodhgayā to Berlin (Claudine Bautze-Picron) 13. Numismatic Finds at Bodhgayā (Robert Bracey) 14. Deposits at Bodhgayā: Objects, Materials, Analysis (Michael Willis, Joanna Whalley, Beatriz Cifuentes, Robert Bracey) 15. Chinese Inscriptions from Bodhgayā (Michael Willis, Serena Biondo) 16. Materials of Plaques 1887,0717.146-147 (Marei Hacke)

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Book SynopsisThe Dalai Lama’s teacher's autobiography offers glimpses into the young Dalai Lama's spiritual upbringing and his escape from Tibet.As the mentor to the young Fourteenth Dalai Lama, Trijang Rinpoché became one of his most trusted confidants. Rinpoché’s status gave him a front-row seat to many of the momentous historical events that befell Tibet. He observes the workings of Tibetan high society and politics with an unvarnished frankness, including inside details of encounters with Mao Zedong, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Pope Paul VI.   Most widely known as a yogi with profound, lifelong religious training, Trijang Rinpoché was also a statesman, a preserver of culture, a poet, writer, and artist. His autobiography is a beautifully written account of Tibetan life in the twentieth century, including intimate details about the upbringing of the Dalai Lama.

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Book Synopsis

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