Bodhipaksa Guided Meditation cd
This is a perfect meditation CD. There is no music to distract you. This mans voice is calm and direct and leaves you plenty of time to experience what he says without rushing you. I wish he had more CD's on different Buddhist topics with guided meditations because I would buy them all.

Addictive awareness, calmness, sharpness, and everything
I was surprised that someone in the review said s/he fell asleep while listening to this CD, as I cannot fall asleep even if I try to sleep listening to any of the three sessions contained in this CD. The first two meditations (focusing on breathing and cultivating empathy) actually make me so aware of both my inner-self and outer-world in a fantastically soothing way that I alwasy feel more awake and often even more energetic after each session. I became kind of addicted and looking forward to listening to the first breathing meditation session each morning after waking up!! Really amazing, I used to hate to wake up. As others have already mentioned, Bodhipaksa has a wonderful calm voice and a beautiful (sophisticated) Scotsman's accent which is VERY CLEAR even to a person like me whose mother tongue is not English.

Every time I commute to my office walking for 20 minutes, I listen to the third session ("walking meditation") recorded to my MP3 player. The meditation is just 20 minutes long and it nicely fits my commuting distance. It really makes me easy to work in my office, because I definitely think I can focus on my works more easily and also I can cope much better with some not-so-nice colleagues of mine. I feel sharper and I am not feeling stressed so much any more in my office, thanks to the 'not clinging to anything but just notice' attitude which I can now enjoy because of these session.

This CD is genuinely incredible. It's the best thing since sliced bread!! NO hypnotic audio records or how-to-meditate books (yes, I got loads of this kind of things) gave me such a brilliant result. Its clear recording quality and there not being any Muzak also help. I have been using this CD for just 5 weeks, which is also amazing as I am a person who tends to get very easily bored!!

Clear and Straightforward
Bodhipaksa presents foundational meditations in a clear, straighforward, and unhurried manner. I have used this CD many times and will continue to revisit these guided meditations to refresh my own practice. Having witnessed Bodhipaksa teaching meditation both in person and through this medium I do not hesitate to state that this is the real thing. There are no gimmicks here. He presents material that has worked for centuries and does so as clearly as I have found in my 12 years of meditation. The guided meditations contained on this CD may seem simple. They are, that is part of their beauty and effectiveness, but one must practice them. Practice, stick with it, be patient, practice some more, and gradually calmness, awareness, and love will arise within and spread. ... Read more

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to sit down with the Dalai Lama and really press him about life's persistent questions? Why are so many people unhappy? How can I abjure loneliness? How can we reduce conflict? Is romantic love true love? Why do we suffer?How should we deal with unfairness and anger? How do you handle the death of a loved one? These are the conundrums that psychiatrist Howard Cutler poses to the Dalai Lama during an extended period of interviews in The Art of Happiness: A Handbook for Living.

At first, the Dalai Lama's answers seem simplistic, like a surface reading ofRobert Fulghum: Ask yourself if you really need something; our enemies can be our teachers; compassion brings peace of mind.Cutler pushes: But some people do seem happy with lots of possessions; but "suffering is life" is so pessimistic; but going to extremes provides the zest in life; but what if I don't believe in karma? As the Dalai Lama's responses become more involved, a coherent philosophy takes shape. Cutler then develops the Dalai Lama's answers in the context of scientific studies and cases from his own practice, substantiating and elaborating on what he finds to be a revolutionary psychology. Like any art, the art of happiness requires study and practice--and the talent for it, the Dalai Lama assures us, is in our nature. --Brian Bruya ... Read more

Customer Reviews (279)

Counter to the negative reviews
I have noticed several reviews that blast Howard C. Cutler for the way he wrote this book.

I would like to say that I think he did a good job.

As an enthusiast of Buddhism, I am inclined to agree that I would have liked to heard more from the Dalai Lama himself, but I understand that the intent of this book was to allow non-buddhists to learn to appreciate and to implement this marvelous system of Buddhist psychology in their lives.

In some senses, Buddhism is a science of understanding and mending the human psyche. For myself, I already understood a lot of the principles in the book, but it was very nice to hear a western psychologist's viewpoint. Sometimes I get lost in the volume of material there is to read about the practice of Buddhism. There are many different approaches to Buddhist thought.

This book is perfect for any non-Buddhist who would like to get a taste of the basic psychology derived from the teacings of one of the most brilliant men in history, The Buddha. The Dalai Lama is a wonderful man in his own right, and is a very wise and worldly translator of this complex system of thought. His profound and well thought out answers to the questions posed by Cutler reflect the depth of his understanding of the human condition and the remedies prescribed by the Buddha to end the suffering that we all must endure.

The Dalai Lama does not give a full exposition of the Buddhist teachings on any of the subjects presented in the book, but his answers are profound and can be put to use in the daily life of any westerner who desires to be happy. Cutler is a reassuring figure in the book who is there to raise the questions that any westerner might raise. More importantly, he is there to compare and contrast the words of the Dalai Lama to the work of western psychologists and to confirm and even exalt the approach of the Dalai Lama.

Excellent Guide To Happiness And Mental Health
The Declaration of Independence asserts our self-evident right to pursue happiness, but doesn't teach us how to do so. The Dalai Lama says happiness is the goal of human existence and teaches us not just how to rid ourselves of the negative thoughts from which unhappiness springs, but also how to grow into an habitually positive frame of mind. This is not a selfish pursuit since compassion and altruism are understood as essential to personal happiness. In an age of road rage and air rage, depression and anxiety, such a guide to mental hygiene and growth is needed and welcome. I was initially disappointed that the book had two authors, but now consider this a strength. Dr. Culter not only adds western psychological information that complements "Buddhist" doctrine, but also provides good descriptions of the Dalai Lama, engages him in a running dialogue, and asks the questions that I would like to ask, particularly how a non-Buddhist would use the teaching just given. As it turns out there is very little in this book that is strictly "religious" or that would be unacceptable or impractical advice to a believer in another or in no faith at all. The Dalai Lama addresses himself specifically to such people. Obviously the book needs to be put into practice, not just read.

A good introduction to Buddhism and Dalai Lamas thoughts
This is a good book to help you learn about the principles and ideas of Buddhism. Written for a Western audience, it takes up problems of daily life and how to be happy with the right mode of thinking. How to live a balanced, peaceful and happy life. Reading the book is easy. How to follow its teachings perhaps not that easy, but obviously worthwhile.

-Simon ... Read more

Thich Nhat Hanh's writing is deceptive in its subtlety. He'll go on and on with stories about tree-hugging or metaphors involving raw potatoes; he'll tell you how to eat mindfully, even how to breathe and walk; he'll suggest looking closely at a flower and to see the sun as your heart.As the Zen teacher Richard Baker commented, however, Nhat Hanh is "a cross between a cloud, a snail, and piece of heavy machinery." Sooner or later, it begins to sink in that Nhat Hanh is conveying a depth of psychology and a world outlook that require nothing less than a complete paradigm shift. Through his cute stories and compassionate admonitions, he gradually builds up to his philosophy of interbeing, the notion that none of us is separately, but rather that we inter-are. The ramifications are explosive. How can we mindlessly and selfishly pursue our individual ends, when we are inextricably bound up with everyone and everything else? We see an enemy not as focus of anger but as a human with a complex history, who could be us if we had the same history. Suffice it to say, that after reading Peace Is Every Step, you'll never look at a plastic bag the same way again, and you may even develop a penchant for hugging trees.--Brian Bruya ... Read more

Customer Reviews (51)

a moment of peace is waiting for you...
How can you make a difference in this world? Reading PEACE IS EVERY STEP is definitely a step in the right direction. Thich Nhat Hanh illustrates in his beautifully simplistic way that peace is something that begins with the individual.

One need not read the book from start to finish. Each chapter is a morsel of wisdom in and of itself. I use it as a daily meditation first thing in the morning. A gentle reminder as I start the day.

This book radically changed the way that I look at the world. I have bought copies for so many of my friends and they have done the same after reading it. By passing this message of Peace along, we are in essence forming a Peace Movement. Please do yourself and your community a favor and read and savor this little volume of wisdom.

A moment of peace is waiting for you...

Powerfully simple
This is a book to savor slowly. I will sometimes just read a paragraph or two and set it down to let the words really be absorbed. While that is my approach, this is a thin book that can be read very quickly if one wishes.

The prospective purchaser (or gift-giver) need not worry about this being "too Buddhist" or religious. Of course it encompasses Buddhism's most profound meanings, but the writing approach of Thich Nhat Hahn is warmly inviting as he simply speaks of more peaceful ways each of us can make our way in this world. His words, with little reference to Buddhist tenets, come across as common sense that we often need to rediscover.

It is very much about the *personal* journey to peace, with gentle stories that remind and reveal the goodness within each of us, that goodness then expanding in ripples that touch those in our lives. The writing is open and sincere and stated with a direct kindness. It is truly wonderful how he makes such profound ideas and options so simple and broadly understandable.

This is a book I love to give as a gift. I believe you will find his words to be worth your time.

Practice This Book's Contents
Following Nhat Hanh's book "Being Peace", this is my next favorite by this articulate Zen master. Within you will find commentaries and meditations straight from the heart of Thay, as well as stories of his life as an activist for peace. It is so very applicable to our daily lives. Lately it's become all too clear that this world needs a healthy serving of peace. Our spiritual mouths are so hungry for this. The meditations Thich Nhat Hanh has been celebrated worldwide for are captured within this deceptively slim book. For those of you who have come to know Thay through his wide body of books, you know how well he communicates points to all of us; always with a soothing ease and simplicity. That style is more than ever evident in this text. This work is a remarkable starting point for someone interested in looking into Buddhism, searching for balance in their lives; it's for non Buddhists who are simply looking for a way to bridge the gap of divisiveness. Thich Nhat Hanh is such a good friend to us all, and buying this magnificent book can help all of us become better friends to the world at large. Enjoy it. ... Read more

Once Is NOT enough!
I read Zen Golf and immediately thought that this was THE best book on how to improve your golf game and how you enjoy it. The book is NOT how to create the perfect golf swing. It is all about the mental side of the game and how you can improve your results by improving the way you think. Shortly after reading the book, I realized that reading it only once and expecting to achieve the intended results was simply not enough. The book must be read multiple times, use a hi-liter to mark the passages you want to improve on. There are so many wonderful mental suggestions that it is almost impossible to pick them all up the first time you read the book. I thought so much of the book, I purchased the book on CDs. I have read the book three times and listened to the CD's twice and will continue to read and listen until I have a clear picture of exactly what I want to accomplish. Since I only play on weekends, the time between rounds/practice tends to dull the lessons learned if you read it only once. Once is simply not enough! I know of no other book on golf I would recommend more. The principles also apply to life in general and sales specifically. The similarities between golf and sales are incredible!

The Point
What's the point of golf? What are we trying to achieve while we're out there? Simply put, the point is to get the ball in the cup as quickly as possible and enjoy the process. I played a round early this summer, had an awful time, came off the course stressed and feeling bad about my behavior. I was literally hyperventalating over putts. Turns out I scored well. So something was amiss, right? This book has me enjoying the game again. Zen Golf is not a deep and difficult treatise of the deeper meaning of life and golf. It is closer to an instruction manual on how to play better golf and enjoy the game more. It addresses concepts like trust, confidence and positive thinking. I now enjoy those 3-iron punch shots out of the trees. I'm learning to enjoy those 5-footers. Every shot is an opportunity and there's no need for fear or negativity. My "evil caddie" seldom comes around, and when he does, I know what to do. This is simply the best golf book I've ever read.

Lowered my scores
Okay, I'm not ready to turn pro now, but I had never once shot below 90 prior to reading this. Then, one night I was bored and picked it up (quick read -- couple hours or so) and decided to zen out next time on the course. I followed just a few simple ideas from the book and shot an 84. It was the first time in a while that golf was fun again and not so dang frustrating. Loved it. ... Read more

A world of compassion
I love this book. It was recently given to me as a birthday present and has become a way for me to reflect and start my day. Every morning I sit and open the page related to the same day. The photographs are stunning and although the book is heavy, the format makes it different, unforgettable among other books by its shape and beautiful cover photograph.
If you are one who believes in compassion, kindness and truthfulness about oneself's divine nature, then this book is for you. Enjoy! ... Read more

A respected Zen master in Japan and founder of the San Francisco Zen Center, Shunryu Suzuki has blazed a path in American Buddhism like few others. He is the master who climbs down from the pages of the koan books and answers your questions face to face. If not face to face, you can at least find the answers as recorded in Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind, a transcription of juicy excerpts from his lectures. From diverse topics such as transience of the world, sudden enlightenment, and the nuts and bolts of meditation, Suzuki always returns to the idea of beginner's mind, a recognition that our original nature is our true nature. With beginner's mind, we dedicate ourselves to sincere practice, without the thought of gaining anything special. Day to day life becomes our Zen training, and we discover that "to study Buddhism is to study ourselves." And to know our true selves is to be enlightened. --Brian Bruya ... Read more

Customer Reviews (97)

Mountains are Mountains
It is March, 2000, and I have just ordered another 6 copies of this classic book on Zen sitting meditation. I first read it shortly after it was published in 1972, borrowed from the Cleveland Heights OH library. Since then I have returned to it many times and given many copies away to friends.

Some are grieving a loss, some are facing a major personal challenge, like cancer. Some are simply searching for truth or a sense of themselves.

In any case, I do agree with those reviewers who point novices toward a more traditionally instructive book like The Three Pillars of Zen. That book speaks to the logical structure of Zen study, its emphasis on teaching, practice and enlightenment. It is important to understand Zen in this historic and traditional light if one is to pursue it seriously. But Three Pillars is a "study book" - it is not a description of the sitting zen experience. Shunryu's lectures were "live" and directed to the experience itself.

As in the old Zen saying, his words are fingers, pointing to the moon.

Certainly, there may be purists who find dogmatic contradictions in some of Shunryu's comments. But he did not set out to teach the dogma!

This is an excellent book the serious zen student will return to again and again. And for the "everday man" among us, the "beginner" Shunryu spoke to, it is much better than a handbook of Hazleton platitudes, an erstwhile koan or a list of Covey's rules.

Sit up straight! Put your thoughts away! Sit and....

a zen classic...a book you can always come back to
Weather you don't know anything about Zen or have been practicing for twenty years, "Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind" will always give you something new. Out of all the Zen books I own, this is the one I am constantly going back to and re-reading. For many American Zen students, this is the book that started it all. "Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind" is a collection of lectures given by Shrunryu Suzuki given to his students in Los Atlos, CA. They deal with the fundamentals of practice in the Soto Zen tradition started by Dogen in Japan. However it would be wrong to limit this book to just a tradition. I believe no matter what your beliefs or practices are, this book and the practice of zazen can help you. Suzuki emphasises strongly on practice which in Zen, its easy to get carried away with false ideas and I think that is what makes this book so helpful with my practice. So pick up this book and a Zafu and take the lotus position and be prepared to be changed forever.

What is Buddhism? What is Zen?
This book will not answer either of those questions. Therefore it should get 0 stars. However, I think it deserves 5 stars.

Religious or philosophical traditions are among the most difficult to pass from one generation to the next without bollixing up the original spirit of the tradition. When Siddhartha experienced enlightenment 2500 years ago, did he envision all the crazy schizms, sects, misinterpretations, and frauds that would ensue as a result of his teachings? YES. But he decided to teach his experiences anyway.

To many, religion is all about dogma or exactly how to practice it. If you don't kneel correctly at the right time of day or cut a fart in the middle of silent meditation, then you are a permanent failure and can never achieve the perfection that your guru/god is trying to teach you.

Others abandon religion entirely, and say that you should reject any dogma that tells you what to believe and how to think. Organized religion is just a perpetual Multi-Level Marketing scheme, where the only way to be successful is to convince everyone else that you've found the truth and get them to pass it on. Evangelical Christianity is obviously the best example of this, but some people see elements of it in all religions, and they have a point.

Is there a middle ground? I think so, even though it's sooo easy to slip to one side or the other. My goal is to find inspiration in different traditions, understand and respect them, and also to explore the elements that I don't agree with (Judeo-Christian-Islamic fundamentalism, for example). What can I do to build a bridge between myself and people with these beliefs?

I find that reading works such as Zen Mind, Beginners Mind nurture that middle path. It doesn't give step-by-step instructions for achieving perfection, but by walking with Shunryu Suzuki for a few hours and listening to his conversation you get a glimpse of what it means to be alive and aware of what's happening around you. You don't learn Buddhist dogma (whatever that is), and you don't learn how to reject all other religions or philosophies, you just get to enjoy reading the words of a kinder, gentler person. To you he is giving the gift of his thoughts which you can either take and use or reject and go look for something else.

If you feel that this book is new-age trash or baffling mumbo-jumbo, I hope you're able to find whatever's right for you and that it enriches your life accordingly. ... Read more

Advice is not very useful
This book caught my attention in a bookstore at a time when I was going through a lot of stress due to things "falling apart" in my life. Basically, I was in a situation where just nothing seemed to be going right. I bought this book and started reading it. It gets very quickly into the teachings of buddhism. The primary message that I got from the book was that of "letting go". Yes, this is one way of dealing with things when they get overwhelming. But there are other, far better ways, I think. This book is a valuable read for understanding buddhist philosophy. But, if you're looking for inspiration during trying times in your life, you'll have to look elsewhere--and there are plenty of such inspirational books. A good example of such a book is "Many Lives, Many Masters" by Brian Weiss.

When one is going through difficult times, I don't think one should just give up and stop trying. But that is the recommendation of this book. Instead, I think one can change one's thoughts and one's expectations. But one should not stop making an effort altogether and just "let go" completely. The book's title is misleading; it won't really help someone whose life is falling apart. I know for sure that it didn't help me.

Leaning into life's sharp points.
Life's difficult times may be inevitable, but they're not a prerequisite for appreciating the 146 pages of wisdom found in this book. Pema Chodron is the director of Gampo Abbey in Pleasant Bay, Nova Scotia. WHEN THINGS FALL APART pays respect to her teacher, Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche. We learn in the book's title essay, before becoming a Buddhist nun, Chodron survived the anger of a failed marriage. In truth, she writes, it saved her life (p. 10).

Chodron's experience illustrates the point of the 22 "teachings" contained within this book: "Life is a good teacher and a good friend" (p. 10). Life, Chodron observes, "is like riding a train sitting backwards" (p. 143). Leaning into the sharp points along the way is the kind of instruction we can apply to our lives to bring about "revolutionary changes in how we perceive things" (p. 139). The thorny path through hope, fear, death, loneliness, opinion and chaos should not be avoided. It is the goal.

I have now read Chodron's book twice. It is like a heart-to-heart encounter with an insightful friend. Thank you, Pema Chodron.

G. Merritt

Infinite Power for Living
I grew up and was deeply involved in a moderate Baptist church. For much of my life I considered myself a "good" Christian who knew that Jesus died for my sins and therefore I also knew that I was bound for heaven. But it wasn't until I was 40 years old and had seen my life fall apart that I decided to let go of my life completely, and give it to God.

Interestingly, after this total commitment and release to God, I was immediately and strangely drawn to the biblical book of Ecclesiastes. Many wonder why this book was included in the bible because it seems to contain nothing but the pervading theme of hopelessness. Yet, its words seemed to give me comfort and a source of spiritual strength. It was difficult for me then to explain this to other Christians.

Pema's book is a kind of contemporary practical application of the teaching found in Ecclesiastes. Of course our lives and our world are utterly evanescent. Nothing lasts. Yet, most of us become quite delusional during our lives by effectively denying this fact. We grab hold of anything we can that can give us a sense of a sustainable and unique identity... including our religious tradition. But any or all of this can be taken away in an instant. Both Pema's and Ecclesiastes' teachings have the power to bring us home by helping us to discover our eternal identity in the unmanifest... in the mystery of Infinite Spirit. Once we find our home there, nothing can shake us. There is a power and a joy that is not fully describable with words... because its source lies beyond words, beyond creation.

In one of Jesus' prayers he asks God to bring all people into Oneness... "may they be One as we are One." Pure Oneness implies the loss (even death) of a separate identity, and the realization of a universal identity as One. Pema's use of the idea of hopelessness is really the movement through the death of our false and fleeting separate identities into the ultimate home of Oneness with each other and with God. I believe that Pema's teachings can aid any one that is ready, whose ego has been broken enough, to discover their eternal home even as they live in this manifested world. This can be a liberated life filled with the courage and fearlessness to bring Unconditional Love to the whole world, and especially to the seemingly unlovable. ... Read more

In 1927, Walter Evans-Wentz published his translation of an obscure Tibetan Nyingma text and called it the Tibetan Book of the Dead. Popular Tibetan teacher Sogyal Rinpoche has transformed that ancient text, conveying a perennial philosophy that is at once religious, scientific, and practical. Through extraordinary anecdotes and stories from religious traditions East and West, Rinpoche introduces the reader to the fundamentals of Tibetan Buddhism, moving gradually to the topics of death and dying. Death turns out to be less of a crisis and more of an opportunity. Concepts such as reincarnation, karma, and bardo and practices such as meditation, tonglen, and phowa teach us how to face death constructively. As a result, life becomes much richer. Like Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, Sogyal Rinpoche opens the door to a full experience of death. It is up to the reader to walk through. --Brian Bruya ... Read more

Customer Reviews (58)

A necessary read for seekers...
My bookshelves are filled with books on many topics, including death and dying and spirituality -- this book might be the only book I really need.

For years I have thought I must read the Tibetan Book of the Dead -- but whenever I tried, it was much too complicated for me to understand.

Sogyal Rinpoche has written this book so that it is easily understood by anyone, even us Westerners, without compromising any of the Buddhist teachings it offers.

In essence, we begin to die the moment we are born. We spend this life preparing to die well. Nothing is permanent, but we spend much of our lives filling our time with activities and pursuits that help us elude ourselves into thinking that what we see and touch is all that matters.

Sogyal Rinpoche says, "To follow the path of wisdom has never been more urgent or more difficult. Our society is dedicated almost entirely to the celebration of ego, with all its sad fantasies about success and power, and it celebrates those very forces of greed and ignorance that are destroying the planet. It has never been more difficult to hear the unflattering voice of the truth, and never more difficult, once having heard it, to follow it: because there is nothing in the world around us that supports our choice, and the entire society in which we live seems to negate every idea of sacredness or eternal meaning. So at the time of our most acute danger, when our very future is in doubt, we as human beings find ourselves at our most bewildered, and trapped in a nightmare of our own creation."

He writes about the importance of realizing the interconnectedness of all living beings (including nature), of meditation (and gives instructions and advice), of finding and being devoted to a good master (something very difficult for Westerners to accept -- he acknowledges that there are fraudulent ones about), of learning to live and learning to die, of letting go of egos and becoming egolessness. Throughout the book, he tells of female masters as well as males, something female readers may greatly appreciate.

Sogyal Rinpoche is from Tibet, and speaks of the cruelty of the Chinese to the Tibetan Buddhists (very similar to the persecution of the early christians, and later the Jews by the Nazis -- when will we ever learn, but then that's the point of this book!)

In the last section of the book, he speaks of "The Universal Process" which is about spirituality, living and dying of all humans, regardless of race, spiritual beliefs, gender or national origin. There are in the back two mantras with explanations and he shares photographs of his beloved masters. Throughout the book are inspiring poems from such poets as Rumi and St. Francis of Assisi, as well as Buddhists. In the very back he gives suggested readings, and offers phone numbers and addresses of Rigpa National Office, where those who are interested can find referrals to cources and study groups in the US, Canada and around the world.

This book is a very good place for the seeker to begin. For those curious about Buddhism, or seriously interested in becoming a Buddha or a Buddhist, or just looking for more thoughts and information on death and dying, this book is excellent, easy to understand, thought-provoking.

a must for a Buddhist library
This book fully captures the essence of Tibetan Buddhism. I don't claim to be an authority on the subject, but I was born into a Buddhist household that has remained faithful and reverent to both Mahayana and Hiyana traditions of Buddhism. From the information I've had passed on to me by both family and Tibetan Buddhist clergy, this book has never been contradictory to anything lecture I've heard. In fact, everybody seems to recommend it enthusiastically!

Essentially, according to Tibetan Buddhism, the purpose of living is to cultivate the mind and purify the body and soul to prepare for death. Westerners may, at first glance, find this philosophy morbid. However, we must remember that reincarnation is integral to Buddhist text (and most world religions, for that matter; the 'one life' theory is actually relatively new). Death is explained as a transitional period, like the end of a chapter to a book. To waste away ones life is like wasting away all your money without care for the future. Basically, this philosophy heavily emphasizes living in the present with thoughtfulness and offers a plethora of Buddhist insight into life and death. It also stresses the urgency of cultivation in a day and age when we disregard life, old age, and disease as trivial matters and nothing that science cannot combat.

The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying is written by a Rinpoche. For those who are not familiar with Tibetan titles, a Lama is essentially a monk who has abandond wordly comforts for a spiritual pursuit, and a Rinpoche is a recognized reincarnation of an esteemed Lama.

If you are a Buddhist, I highly recommend this book. It is enlightening, insightful, and an absolute must in any Buddhist library. Whether you follow the traditions of Chinese Buddhism, Zen or Chan, take the Amitabha or Guan Yin approach, etc., as a fellow Buddhist to another, you should not go without having this book. It's available in Chinese, as well, for the Buddhists out there who are more adept at Chinese than English.

For seekers, this is a wonderful guide, as well. The best part with any book as wonderful as this is that everytime you read it, you'll find new insight in the words. Beginners and established Buddhists alike will take in much insight.

I also highly recommend this to Buddhists who are unfamiliar with the Tibetan traditions. The Tibetan texts will open a whole new door for you. I know from personal experience, because my mother (who is the spiritual leader of the family) was originally a student of Chinese Buddhism, but after reading this book, our entire family discovered a whole other arena of philosophies that have done nothing but enrich our practices.

So whether you're already a Buddhist wishing to broaden your knowledge, a Buddhist who would like new material to absorb, or a seeker who is just curious of the fundamentals of Tibetan Buddhism, this book is definitely a must.

Good book but
This book was not really written by Sogyal Rimpoche. It was mainly written by Harvey mentioned as a secondary author (or someone else called Paul Harvey). This information comes to me via a Tibetan Buddhist who sponsored Sogyal Rimpoche's arrival and settling down in the UK. As a reviewer at Amazon.com and a Buddhist practitioner who has met Sogyal, I stand by the above statement. The informant was quite sure though the communication was provided under informal circumstances.

Before I continue, in the publishing world it is probably not uncommon for books to be "authored" by one person but actually written by another. Jefferey Archer's editor or some other editors often may have written a book under the umbrella of a lucrative author.

Sogyal Rimpoche has started Rigpa and earns a lot of money. His disciples carry cash in suitcases (I gathered from the above source and am not surprised after attending one of Sogyal's retreats). He was disowned by or he disowned Dujom Rimpoche his teacher. Sogyal is fond of quoting his familial links and relationship to Dujom or the Dalai Lama and is regarded as some sort of incarnation (aren't we all?). Sogyal Rimpoche was informed that he was not mature enough to teach in the Nyngma tradition and was asked to return to Tibet. He refused.

Harvey kept the fee and Sogyal harvests the royalties.

This book is a cherry picked slice of Tibet's greatest teachings with highlights on death, rebirth, compassion incorporating practices somewhat external to a principal Tibetan source text on death and rebirth which forms the basis of the book. It is recommended reading before you go on a Sogyal retreat boosting sales. The book is not especially deep and designed to appeal. Small wonder it attracts few detractors.

It reads rather well I suppose and Rimpoche remains a charismatic teacher. As long as you don't swallow it lock, stock and smoking barrel. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Great Meditation tape
After reading "A Path with Heart" by Jack Kornfield, I found his audio tape to be very informative. If you are having doubts about how to pursue meditation and spiritual life, I would highly recommend this audio. I can never listen to it too often. Jack has a wonderful way of getting his point across.

Kwan Yin Society highly recommends these tapes...
Jack Kornfield is perhaps the most gifted meditation teacher in the West. His humor, compassion, clarity and insight make this tape series a life-long treasure. Perfect for anyone who is new to meditation or who wantsmore peace and compassion to stream from the heart. ... Read more

Robert Thurman--father of Uma, outspoken critic of George Bush'sadministration and one of the first Westerners to bring popularize Buddhismin America—has written what is arguably his finest book. In InfiniteLife he invites readers into a fascinating new way of thinking livingand meditating that might do more to save the world than any political actknown to humans. In recognizing that our lives and even our moment-to-moment choices choices haveeternal ramifications, we are at once free from the burden of pettypursuits yet suddenly saddled with the weight of infinite responsibility.Thurman helps students understand that carrying this weight is the only waywe can free ourselves and the rest of the world form suffering. Buddhistsrecognize this as the path of "the bodhisattva," dedicated to the well-beingof all beings. In order to help readers make this quantum shift in awareness, Thurmanstructure his chapters around the paramitas, or transcendent virtues:wisdom, generosity, patience, contemplation, justice (usually called"discipline"), and creativity ("diligence"). He adds a seventh virtue:art—as in the "art of infinite living." Each chapter includes a lesson on avirtue as well as meditations and life choices that support personal andglobal transformation.

He delivers his promise with political and spiritual punch. Some criticizeThurman for his outspokenness against the current Bush administration. Butfor those who want to use their spirituality to create political change—thisbook is filled with excellent meditations and lifestyle suggestions forbringing about global compassion and humanity. --Gail Hudson ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Infinite Life- 7 Virtues et al. by Robert Thurman
This is an excellent but somewhat controversial work which embellishes the Mahayana School of Buddhism. The author espouses the virtues inherent in selflessness and individual/collective
wisdom. He challenges the reader to embrace creativity and
generosity in interpersonal relationships. Most importantly,
the work demands that we do a critical self-examination to
determine what is within us. It is only by knowing ourselves
thoroughly that we can transcend our current condition.
This self-transformation is a condition precedent to achieving the creativity and generosity of spirit needed to help others.
The book challenges us to transcend ourselves and achieve
levels of learning and experience outside the normal everyday
patterns of life. It is an important contribution to
religion, philosophy and the psycho-social sciences.

Infinite Life, A True Inspiring Message of Infinite Hope
There are so many facets of Buddhism -one compliments the others-, the true embodiment of emptiness at the very heart of Buddhist teachings that nothing has an inherent existence of its own. No one does a better job than Robert Thurman, one of the most prominent Buddhist scholars representing the Mahayana school of thoughts, in giving a cerebral erudition of the meanings and interpretations of old manuscripts and their relevance to our contemporary life. That is represented, again, in his latest craft.The Mahayana tradition puts a huge emphasis on infinite and universal compassion for all sentient beings, it is the basis of every effort toward self-transformation, that ultimately entails self-transcendence in the selfless spirit of the altruistic mind seeking for enlightenment for the benefits of all. His book works on that basis in a very forceful, dense, idealistic fashion but accessible at the same time.

This Bodhisatva ideal is so infinitely lofty to the point that many people might find it impractical and unrealistic. However, as Thurman point-blankly elaborates throughout the book, that ideal isn't an empty dream of a romantic fool, but it's based on the infinite outlook of life with infinite room for personal growth; infinity that stretches to the "past" and "future" through infinite numbers of past and future lives, intimately intertwined and interrelated.

In this infinite universe, that is supported by science needless to say, there are infinite possibilities. That is one thing. The other is the proclamation that we are all Buddha now, we just need to be awakened to that fact. So if we are all enlightened beings with built-in infinite capacity for altruism and infinite deadlines to fulfill our Bodhisatva ideal, aiming high isn't that crazily unrealistic. If anything, it jumpstarts and single mindedly focus our commitment to practice to get closer to that ideal in our own pace and time.

This notion leads to a troubling theory (at least to some) of reincarnation that in Buddhism is more aptly coined as rebirth. How are the two different? And is there any scientific basis for either theory? Or is it a mere belief as theists believe in heaven or hell as the final destination after one's death?

Buddhism goes far deeper than a mere belief system which is an end to itself that gives you a not so comforting alternative of eternal damnation for stubbornly resisting to "see the truth." Buddhism is a sophisticated, surprisingly modern, consistent and scientific system of psychology. Thurman calls it "joyous science of the heart.

Some people who belongs to the hardcore materialist camp (usually atheists, scientists and thus, Nihilists) may just lump the Buddhist doctrine of rebirth as superstition and as unfounded as the belief in God, angels, heaven and hell of the theists. Their prejudice and dogmatism assumes that just as theistic belief in heaven is solely founded by the inherent fear of death, then so is the Buddhist doctrine of rebirth, unaware of the point blank assertion of the Buddha that birth, sickness, death are unavoidable facts of life and the failing world is a samsara (a cycle of birth and death) reeked in sufferings, the cure of which is Nirvana (liberation from the cycle which shouldn't be construed as extinction into nothingness, by the way). The Theravada tradition, which in a sense provides a basic interpretation of the Buddha's teachings, stops at that, while the Mahayanese, driven by infinite compassion for all beings, vows to delay the attainment of Nirvana until every single being is liberated.

So why rebirth? It boils down to the Buddhist tenet of selflessness. The self according to the Buddha is a relative and subjective reality that is not independent to myriad factors that create it in the first place. There is no enduring, unchanging part of it than in itself makes what we call "the self." The body and mind work together to become self, each of which is breakable into different elements that have also causes for their existence. To the Buddhists both matter and mind exist separately, yet interdependently. And Thurman points out something can't become nothing, it is scientifically unsustainable. The center of the contention between the Nihilists and the Buddhists is whether consciousness resides in the brain, whether the former is a mere side effect of physical activities of the neuron cells which will cease one the brain stops functioning and decays. The Nihilist materialists obviously believe so. The Buddhists don't, hence consciousness (or mind) is a something, a form or energy, and the law of physics dictates that energy can't be created nor destroyed.

In that sense both camps part ways in the move that seemingly lumps the Buddhists in the same league with the monotheist eternalists. However, the Buddhists warn us that even though there is a continuation of the mind, this mind is much less personal than the fixed soul that the eternalists hold onto so tightly. The mind (or the Buddhist relative soul) is fluid and so much less identifiable -hence selflessness- and is a fluctuative process driven by karma (in this case can be translated into obsessions and fixations).

Hence, Buddhism is literally sandwiched between two extremes of the atheist Nihilists and theist Eternalists, giving a candid point in case that the Buddha didn't call his Dharma "the Middle Path" for no reason.

On that basis then the rest of the book goes on with Seven Virtues of wisdom, generosity, justice, patience, creativity, contemplation and the art of infinite living to live a happy bountiful life, a life with minimum ego frictions and aggravations. In the nutshell, we can only be happy if we loosen up our ego boundaries, if we focus less in our self-preoccupations, realize the relativity of our "self" and start to care more about others since self and others are interchangeable. It is mighty difficult, needless to say, but we can gradually get there through practices outlined in this book. This is a message of hope, let's embrace it.

"WOW!!! this is it!!!!!!!!! NIRVANA NOW!!!!!!
All I can say is that this book touched me in the most profound way, after the power of now, and the sedona method, I feel as if I've finally tuned into my true self, at every moment in constant change, no longer stuck in old habits or self imposed limits, although based on Mahayana buddhism, this truly is a bible for contemporary living, every sentence is to be read very carefully, and deeply pondered, for within this text lies the key for unlocking the door to your soul, and making your life fuller and richer.
Mind you buddhism has never been my thing, I'm not pushing any type of eastern dogma, or new age doctrine.This book and it's message have renewed my hope, and made me more aware of my inner psyche,this is our missing manual.
I hope that it's within your dharma to pick up this book,and ponder it , and share it with everyone around you.
Mr. Thurman thank you for this gift. ... Read more

tremendous insight of Thich Naht Hahn
I picked up this book knowing of Thich Nhat Hanh and thinking it might be interesting to see what he had to say. As a psychotherapist I found his insight into the condition of emotional blindness stunning. I have to say that I seldom feel enthusiastic enough about a book to recomend it particularly highly and I have never written a review for Amazon before, this is a first for me. I write it out of deeply felt gratitude to TNH. This book contains insights into how Anger and ohter emotions take hold of us and how we can change the state we are in for the better. Notice I say change the state for we cannot 'get rid of' only transform what we have. TNH explains this with great clarity, sincerity, simplicity and compassion. He is convincing and compelling, interesting and enjoyable to read.

his meditative suggestions are also simple and expound the idea of meditation in a unique way. this way is surely 'the way' and is explained so that meditation will never, at least for me be the same again.

if you suffer anger or other emotional woes read this book. I feel certain that it will give you a tremedous and new perspective into your suffering and how best to deal with it.

TNH uses analogies that make it so simple you almost kick yourself for not understanding before. He shows us that you don't need endless psychology degrees or the patience of a saint to have cope with emotions. He explains why compassion heels us as well as others.

If you read only one book on zen Buddhism read this one...

An outstanding book which speaks direct to heart
I felt very enlightened after reading this book in a single sitting. Anger is basically a book which shows us how we can apply the great principles of Buddhism to solve our emotional and spiritual problems. Author Thich Nhat Hanh clarifies abstract and intricate points in a story telling way that speaks direct to heart.
I learnt many practical ways to combat my anger and shows a "Mindful way of life" in which we can be very joyous and productive. In short, dont hesitate to read this book. Reading this book is like listening to Buddha in person. You will feel sense of exhilaration and peace in getting a glimpse of great but simple truths of life. Author Thich Nhat Hanh deserve more than five stars. Great work. Dont miss it.

Life changing reading...if you're willing to do the work
I'm usually leery of reading books that other people claim "changed their lives" because I fully believe we are responsible for changing our own lives, and usually those "life changing" books turn out to seem more like excuses for why you are the way you are..."its not your fault" or "just read this book and your life will be fixed." Thich Nahn Hanh offers no such excuses or quick fixes. Just simple common sense that is, unfortunately, far from common in this day and age. This book is listed in the "anger management" catagory, but really, it applies to so much more than just anger issues. ANYONE would benefit from reading this book, except perhaps those few who have already realized these simple truths...and even they would probably benefit, but perhaps could save their money and just borrow a copy from a friend ;) ... Read more

Interesting
One nice thing about this book is that it doesn't get caught up in the whole male/female dating trap rules muck that clog the market. It asks you to be honest with yourself and others and to treat others with genuine love and compassion, which is something that is needed when it comes to male/female, straight/gay relations or any human relations. On the down side, it's mostly just a collection of common sense - there's nothing really unique in this book. Plus, as anyone who knows anything about Buddhism knows, the Buddha said nothing about romantic love. So, the book's premise itself is a little tenuous. I prefer "Open Your Mind, Open Your Life: A Little Book of Eastern Wisdom" by Taro Gold, which has taught me a great deal about the Buddhist view of life and has indirectly helped my relationships enormously.

Absolutely the best relationship book ever
If the Buddha Dated is the best guide to healthy relationships I've ever found. I recommend it all the time to anyone with relationship problems, or a tendency to have less than desirable results with others (friends included). No quick fix, but realistic spiritual-based advice that will help.

I also highly recommend "If the Buddha Were In Love" by Kasl, which is an audiocassette series that will absolutely change the way you view love and relationships. But in a wonderful way.

The books and tape series do not try to convert people into Buddhism (she incorporates all spiritualities, by the way), but I have found some people are put off by the mention of Buddhism. I wish they wouldn't and that they'd give it a chance.

nice
Good book - most of it is common sense in the day to day dealing with folk in general. But then, common sense tends to be the kind easiest forgotten, so its a nice little reminder. ... Read more

An excellent book full of compassion and wisdom
Thich Nhat Hanh provides you with wonderful advice on how to increase your awareness and mindfulness about the joys and beauty of everyday life. The Miracle of Mindfulness is a terrific book that gives you ways to exercise your mind and awareness in everyday situations. It gives wonderful meditation exercises for those that would like an enlightening experience without a lot of mystic or religious teachings thrown in, and who are perhaps too busy to spend an hour everyday in meditation. For me, it was a life-changing book.

The antidote to civilization
Most likely Thich Nhat Hanh's most popular and compelling work, Miracle of Mindfulness is as much about being mindful of your thoughts and consciousness as it is about just trying to relax in order to attain a sense of clarity. In a time of extreme angst and hasty deliberations, this book is an antidote to civilization. In a move that is reminiscent of Krishnamurti, he brings such mundane things as washing dishes alive through a sense of mindfulness and actually "being there" when doing things like daily chores. It gives one's life a sense of vitality and energy where there were once discordant thoughts. This world famous Buddhist of the Zen tradition presents a step-by-step approach that will appeal to all but especially to the self-help enthusiast out there with his begging bowl seeking gems of wisdom. This is by no means a trivial book and provides an extremely interesting counterpoint to books out there dealing with self-help. If we are to effect positive change in the world, we need to start from the inside - find that "happy place" and proceed with a sense of calm that allows us to find the road - to ourselves.

Miguel Llora

Great guide for the beginning (or not beginning) meditator
Thay's writings often seem so simple as to be simplistic or childish, but spend a little quality time with this book (or any of his huge output) and you'll realize that, like other great spiritual teachers, his words have a profoundly life-changing quality. In this classic text, he explains in simple poetic language the basics of meditation practice; what to do, what to expect, and why it's an important and meaningful practice. The operative word in Thay's teaching is PRACTICE, and he really does mean "practice" as if you were learning to play the piano or to play tennis. If absorbed and worked at every day, preferrably in the context of daily meditation as well as the normal interactions of daily life, these teachings have the power to create peace and joy for you and those with whom you live and work. This is the beauty of Buddhist teaching in general and the teachings of TNH in particular: they are not complex theological constructs but simple, practical steps designed to make you happy! ... Read more

Suffering is Highly Over-rated!
Tara Brach's book was invaluable in helping me become more accepting of myself. Ms. Brach shares many useful stories and helpful insights. Radical Self Acceptance provides skillful exercises for dealing with many inner shadows. Not only does she bring light to issues of shame and feelings of unworthiness, she provides practical advice on how to awaken from self-suffering. I personally have greatly benefited from her courageous inquiry into the facets of angst that we all experience. In these turbulent times, this book illustrates many practices to embrace our personal struggles so that we can become more compassionate and live a fuller life. When Tara addresses her own vulnerabilities it provides me fortitude to face my own. I consider this book a great resource for understanding our greatest struggle today: ourselves. In our world filled with consumption and materialism, we make up many deluded stories that further separates us from ourselves and our world. Tara goes to the root of how we reinforce our sense of unworthiness. Ms. Brach's wonderful Buddhist and other spiritual teachings provide vivid examples of how we can feel less disconnected. This book is a powerful guide for showing that our self-hatred and shame threatens the future of our world with continuing strife. This book is a wonderful collection of Tara's teachings that weave together our sense of belonging amidst the constant sense of alienation that we unconsciously perpetuate. Finally, this book allows me to free myself from my sense of deficiency to understand that my suffering can be ameliorated with the knowledge that I am a part of a larger, awakening community of like-minded souls who are recovering from their shame. Radical Self Acceptance inspires me to fully "show up", accept, embrace and cultivate greater kindness in all my relationships.

A truly amazing book that will change your life
I've read a number of books on Buddhism, and many of them include a fair amount of discussion on "suffering" and how much of our pain is perpetuated by our telling stories to ourselves. The mind (and heart) is seemingly forever tangled in a web of doubt, what-ifs, and events that exist mostly or entirely in one's head. As Mark Twain put it, "My life has been full of terrible misfortunes, most of which never happened."

That, in essence, is what /Radical Acceptance/ is about, but it goes above and beyond the seemingly brief gloss-over treatment traditional western Buddhist books give this subject. Tara Brach has crafted an amazing book that opens your eyes to just how much suffering we tend to bring upon ourselves. Despite the very serious nature of what this book deals with, it is a delight to read. With each turn of the page, you begin to see more and more clearly. It's like having a compassionate, age-old friend guide you down the road of your own emotions and thoughts.

If you take the time to truly digest what /Radical Acceptance/ is all about, I can guarantee it will change you forever. My brief description here cannot do it justice by any measure - just as the storytelling and strategizing of the mind cannot do justice to the vibrant reality of the world. You might think a book about suffering and self-delusion would be depressing, but it is entirely the opposite. It's like suddenly being able to see with clarity after being caught up in a dense fog for so long. And that, I believe, is the highest praise you can give any book.

Life As It Is
As the title of this marvelous book indicates, Tara Brach shows each and every one of us the path towards accepting our life as it is. This doesn't mean, as you may be wondering, never strive in the direction of change. It's just that, well, change is pretty much a given anyhow. Tara's philosophy (not necessarily writing style) reminds me of Thich Nhat Hanh and his works on mindfulness. Like the book Anger by Nhat Hanh, Tara proposes we must embrace our emotions and perceived shortcomings with the love a mother would have for it's child. There is an absolute plethora of Buddhist/Self Help books on the shelves these days that aren't really worth mentioning, but this book stands out. The most important factor is that you don't even need to be practicing Buddhism to benefit from his wisdom. Just as I have learned from such Christian writers as Thomas Merton and Anthony de Mello, Christians (or any religious tradition's followers) can learn much from this. It's the kind of imperfect life experience all of us can relate to in her work that appeals to me. She's down to earth, introspective (as opposed to preachy), and compassionately skilled in all of her words. Tara Brach holds a Ph.D. and is a clinical psychologist in addition to being a lay Buddhist priest and vipassana meditation guide. In Washington, D.C. she founded the "Insight Meditation Community." She also participates in running various workshops nationally. If your making a "books to buy" list for 2004, put this on there; it's genuinely worth the read. Thanks Tara. ... Read more

As a primer on living the good life, few books compete with How toPractice, another profound offering from the exiled Tibetan Buddhist leaderHis Holiness the Dalai Lama. Westerners may be confused by the book's title,assuming that it focuses solely on Buddhist meditation and prayer techniques.Though it does address meditation and prayer, at its core this is a book thatdemonstrates how day-to-day living can be a spiritual practice. There are twoways to create happiness:

As he has in previous books (An Open Heart, The Art of Happiness), theDalai Lama reminds us that developing peace of mind means paying attention toour daily attitudes and choices as well as taking the time to meditate and beprayerful. The six-part book covers Buddhist meditation techniques andvisualization exercises as well as daily thoughts and actions that fostermorality and wisdom. --Gail Hudson ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

To Practice Peace and Kindness
This book by H.H. the Dalai Lama may be read by those wishing an introduction to Tibetan Buddhism and by those wishing to begin or develop their practice.

The Dalai Lama attempts to answer the basic question: "How can people be happy?" His answer outlines a path of spiritual growth and practice. Although based upon Tibetan Buddhism, there is wisdom in the book for anybody seeking spiritual growth, within or without any specific religious practice.

The book consists of six short sections. It begins with a brief discussion of the life of the Buddha which, as the Dalai Lama points out, encompasses the basic teachings of the Buddhist path: morality, concentrated meditation and wisdom. The Dalai Lama then explains the basis of each teaching in short chapters. It is good that the book gives its focus to moral practice -- curing anger, lust, hatred, and agression and wishing well to oneself and others.

Chapter III of the book discusses meditation practices and will introduce the beginner to the value of meditation and to several meditation techniques. The Dalai Lama stresses the need for consistent practice and for patience and for the need of controlling one's expectations.

There are several chapters which discuss the difficult but key Buddhist teaching of independent origination. Much of this material the Dalai Lama also covers in an earlier book called "The Meaning of Life."

There is a concluding section on Tantra, a uniquely Tibetan practice. I think it is better for the average person to remain with the practices of morality and concentration described earlier in the book.

Some of the unique features of this book are the Dalai Lama's anecdotes of his life in Tibet before the Chinese Invasion of 1950 and of his teachers. There is a substantial discussion of sexuality in the book and of how it may be used (and abused) in the search for peace and kindness. (pages 192-196) There is a translation of the Heart Sutra, a key Buddhist text with a commentary by the Dalai Lama. (159-163)

I found the Dalai Lama's concluding paragraph captures much of the tenor and the value of this book (page 223):

"Though my own knowledge is limited and my experience is also very poor, I have tried my best to help you understand the full breadth of the Buddha's teaching. Please implement whatever in these pages appears to be helpful. If you follow another religion, please adopt whatever might assist you. If you do not think it would be helpful, just leave it alone."

A great deal of wisdom for people of all faiths
Many people choose not to read the books by his Holiness the Dalai Lama because they believe that this will offend or counter their own religious beliefs. Quite to the contrast, everybody can take the simple practices of this book to better their everyday lives.

One line in this book has stood out in the my mind. "You should realize that difficult present circumstances are entirely due to your own past undisciplined actions, so when you experience a difficult period, do you best to avoid behavior that will add to the burden later on." (p 38). This is just one example of the suggestions given to living a more fulfilling life. I believe that he is right in his suggestion that money and posessions will not make a person happy in life. Each of us must discover what gives meaning to our life. To find this is really not that difficult as His Holiness reveals where it lies.

This book is highly recommended for anybody seeking personal and spiritual growth.

Nice Suggestions Within
H.H. the Dalai Lama is the worlds best known monk, without a doubt. In "How to Practice" he provides us with useful techniques and disciplines to train the mind. In it he will not only cover the basics for beginners, he also has translation and commentary of The Heart Sutra for us. Covering Tantra, and steps designed to develop one's concentration of mind, it's hard to name anything The Dalai Lama did NOT put in this book. For those interested in Tibetan Buddhism who are looking for a "step in the door", this book is probably your best bet.

Just to give you an idea of what is in this work, I would like to share an excerpt from the Introduction with you:

"I believe that the practice of compassion and love-a genuine sense of brotherhood and sisterhood-is the universal religion. It does not matter whether you are Buddhist or Christian, Moslem or Hindu, or whether you practice religion at all. What matters is your feeling of oneness with humankind."

This, for me, sums up what our practice is all about. Instead of focusing only on our differences, we should always strive toward finding common ground. To go further, this snip actually expresses how this book is really for anyone. The Dalai Lama doesn't make it a secret that he wrote this book for Buddhist practitioners, yet also points out it is really for anyone in pursuit of "happiness."

Truly, it's a good book. The further you read in, the more you get out. Please enjoy this book, it's a sure winner! ... Read more

You might want to digest this book slowly, a few pages at a time. Although Zen teacher Steve Hagen has a knack for putting the philosophy of Buddhism in a "plain and simple" package, it may take a while to sink in. There is so much there. Seeing reality, realizing the wisdom of the self, breaking free of dualistic thinking--this is pretty heady stuff. Thankfully, Hagen passes it along in the form of examples from life, psychological tidbits, and stories from Buddhist teachers past and present. And when it clicks in, it can be life-transforming. Hagen explains this shift in outlook and how the fundamental way we look at the world affects everything we do. As an outline, Hagen follows the basic teachings of the Buddha, and we see that, rather than dogmatic truths, they are reminders for us as we reconsider the life we have taken for granted for so long. As it turns out, Buddhism is life, plain and simple. --Brian Bruya ... Read more

Customer Reviews (88)

INTERESTING BOOK...BUT PLAIN AND "SIMPLE"?
Buddhism is no stranger to me since I have followed its philosophies for many, many years; however, the mere words contained in the title of this book (plain and simple)indicate it might be particularly insightful to those who are novices or beginners to Buddhism. While this book certainly contains basic knowledge, I question if someone who has little or no prior understanding of the subject could fully comprehend the rather complex philosophies of Buddhism as explained by Mr. Hagen. It is one thing to know the subject, it is quite another matter to be able to explain it in laymen's terms. Through its 159 pages, the book says a lot, but its explanation is often confusing. On the other hand, if you are an experienced follower of these principles, you will probably find the material very elementary indeed, lacking any in-depth substance and extremely repetitious of other similar books.

For those who are just beginning their insightful journey to Buddhism and enlightenment, I highly recommend you begin with the book, "Awakening the Buddha Within," by Lama Surya Das. It is easily understood with Buddhist philosophies adapted to the Western World, and well written in laymen's terms. The book is lengthier and far more complete in subject matter than "Buddhism Plain and Simple". May you find the Buddha within and the spiritual path to enlightenment.

Simple in nature, complex in context
What an insight!

The title, "Buddhism Plain and Simple," serves a-perhaps unintended-double meaning. First the content of the book itself is, for such a difficult subject to the 'western' mind, simplifying to the nature of Buddhism. In most of the so-called western world, Buddhism is another religion a kin to Hinduism and a slew of unnamed cast based worldviews. Hagen skillfully and logically reduces the original concepts preached by the Buddha as a way of seeing the world, a philosophy of sorts, and strips off the many colorful layers of lore and culture acquired through the religion's sweep into Indo-Tibet, thus presenting the most simplified form of Buddhist teaching available. The alternate understanding of the book's title is that Buddhism itself is, by nature, the idea of life as simplicity applied. While this concept may be difficult to grasp (especially for those who have not been raised with eastern philosophy) it is, nonetheless, simple. Get it?

Anyone (really, anyone) desiring to gain an applicable understanding of "Buddhist philosophy" (for lack of a better term) should start with this book. Take the time to read it carefully, reread it, mull it, and then see how it affects you. The least you can expect to gain from Hagen's work, is a better understanding of the simplicity that life has to offer to those willing to let go.

Inaccessible
I have to agree with petersmaclean. I have no prior knowledge of Buddhism and picked up this book out of intellectual curiosity. I finished it, after having forced myself to get through it all. The book is written in a fluffy and nebulous way. The author talks of "seeing" (if I see that word in italics again I'm going to puke), and his explanations build off of weak analogies. When I put the book down, I felt I had no substantial knowledge of Buddhism, aside from some foggy notion of enlightenment. Towards the end, the book reads like a cult handbook. I got the feeling that it only makes sense once you've bought into it. ... Read more

Facing the Places That Scare Us
Pema Chodron's latest book, "The Places That Scare You," was released just before the world experienced the embodiment of all the places that scare us: the inconceivable catastrophic events of September 11 and their aftermath. Of course, we must not pass over the monumental suffering cause by these events. However, the real message of September 11 is to point out the insecurity that constantly lies beneath the surface of our existence, the groundlessness that we fear and either try to ignore or to flee. Fear ordinarily shuts down our hearts and minds; it makes our world smaller. But when we begin to relate to our fear fully and properly, the vulnerability that we ourselves experience is transformed into genuine caring for others and for our world. In her book, Pema presents various tools for facing up to fear as a springboard for giving birth to bodhichitta, the awakened heart of love and compassion. These include mindfulness meditation, training in the four limitless ones (loving-kindness, compassion, joy, and equanimity), and the practice of tonglen (exchanging ourselves for others). For people interested in learning more about tonglen, Pema has written another book called "Tonglen: The Path of Transformation," which is available from Vajradhatu Publications.

OPEN YOUR HEART AND YOU RELEASE SUFFERING!
Pema Chodron, a Tibetan Buddhis nun, is the one inspirational person you would choose to have with you when your world falls apart. Being a follower of Buddhist Philosophies for many years, I have found inner peace, strength, love and fulfillment through my beliefs. Each one of us must find "enlightenment" from whatever source we alone believe in, but for me, personally, Buddhism has been the answer. As the author reminds us, "Loving kindness comes from opening ourselves to vulnerability."

Meditation, mindfulness and practices such as "tonglen" (taking in the pain and suffering of others while sending out happiness) can be key tools in ridding ourselves of negativity, anxiety and fear. Each of us has within us the power to overcome that which causes us fear. Chodron explains how we can use these tools to overcome almost any obstacle or challenge.

Another book by the same author which is highly recommended is "When Things Fall Apart." Both offer excellent words of wisdom and advice and both are deserving of a five-star rating. Chodron is a teacher, a sage, an inspirationalist, a mentor and a prime example of one who is good, compassionate, understanding, kind and loving.

A lot more to this than meets the eye
Pema Chodron seems to get mostly favorable reactions from reviewers, although a few are turned off by what they see as her complacency and hard-edged analysis. To the latter, I suggest reading "traditional" self-help books (there are plenty out there) that are either squishy (John Bradshaw and Wayne Dwyer come to mind) or tell you to "Just Do It" (Eat That Frog, Who Moved My Cheese).

I like Chodron and this book because I think she takes a middle path between compassion and "tough love". So many books tell us to be in the moment and experience life just as it is, warts and all. I think this book goes into a little more depth regarding the many aspects of awareness and the mind-games we play with ourselves. I also get a sense that Ms. Chodron has been through a lot in life, from both a personal and a spiritual perspective. That makes her writing a little more down to earth than, say, Deepak Chopra (many of you will cringe that I even mentioned his name in this review).

An interesting insight that I got from this book is the concept of groundlessness. In 12-step programs and some Christian circles they talk about being "spiritually grounded", which means to have beliefs that are not whimsical or based on hunches, but are well-established principles espoused by your program/religion. Chodron would appear to disagree with this description somewhat, and I'm on her side, in that you should always question what the truth is, even the Buddha's teachings. Even enlightenment is not the end, she says, but really is just the start of truly living. Groundlessness, then, is being able to be in the moment with no pre-conceived ideas or desires for a particular outcome. It could also be called egolessness.

Where this book comes up short is that it is highly repetitive, especially in the middle chapters. She basically repeats the same exercise for practicing lovingkindness, compassion, joy, and equanimity. I didn't get as much as I would like out of those sections; I think they're more for someone who's in a heavy-duty meditation practice.

I think this book could be easily misinterpreted by someone who picks it at random from a library or bookstore. The stuff that's talked about in here may seem simple or even counter-intuitive, but I believe it's the result of the author's long spiritual journey. Many self-help books and religions advertise that they can cure whatever your problem was in X easy steps (and have testimonials to prove it). The Places That Scare You says that there is relief from suffering, but finding relief is just the beginning. ... Read more

If you have always assumed that Christianity and Buddhism are as far apart philosophically as their respective founders were geographically, you may be in for a bit of a surprise. In this national bestseller, Zen monk and social activist Thich Nhat Hanh draws parallels between these two traditions that have them walking, hand in hand, down the same path to salvation. In Christianity, he finds mindfulness in the Holy Spirit as an agent of healing. In Buddhism, he finds unqualified love in the form of compassion for all living things. And in both he finds an emphasis on living practice and community spirit.

The thread that binds the book is the same theme that draws many Christians toward Buddhism: mindfulness. Through anecdotes, scripture references, and teachings from both traditions, Nhat Hanh points out that mindfulness is an integral part of all religious practice and teaches us how to cultivate it in our own lives. Nhat Hanh has no desire to downplay the venerable theological and ritual teachings that distinguish Buddhism and Christianity, but he does cause one to consider that beyond the letter of doctrine lies a unity of truth. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (57)

A good attempt to show commonality
Thich Nhat Hanh's attempt to portray the commonality between Christianity and Buddhism is sometimes awkward and utilizes Gnostic Gospel text that may not be accepted by more conservative or fundamentalist Christians. (I would highly recommend Elaine Pagels' "The Gnostic Gospels" as a quick introduction to the Gnostic Christians) However, it does make a number of excellent observations of the parallels of the teachings of Jesus and Buddha and begs the question of what the meeting of these to men would be like if they were able to meet in person. Thây's plea to release ourselves from our notions and concepts and to look open mindedly at all faiths is much needed in our fragmented world. This book helps one to see through much of the dogma and doctrine that perpetuates the mythology of terminal uniqueness and guides us gently to a better understanding of both Buddhist and Christian traditions. I would also recommend highly Thich Nhat Hanh's "Going Home, Jesus and Buddha as Brothers".

The Heart of Compassion that lies at the heart of us all
Thich Nhat Hanh is a respected humanitarian as well as an insightful and intelligent author. The readability of this book is excellent for all people who seek to understand the contemplations that stir within his beautiful mind. The way in which Thich Nhat Hanh can describe such joy and inner peace almost makes the reader share his peace for a time. For the Christian or the Buddhist this is a must-have book, if you don't have it yet get it now, no really, right now, I'll wait. Jesus and siddartha have always been recognized as very similar and their must be a hunred books out there that compare them. This book doesn't do that; instead it compares both of the religions they founded and the common positive goal between them. Understandibly Thich Nhat Hanh uses many mor Buddhist metaphors but this should not imply that he has no knowledge of Christianity. It is obvious that Thich Nhat Hanh (I continue to use his full honorary as a sign of respect) has a breadth of understanding in reference to Christianity that some Christians fail to grasp.

Definitely read this book. It is a work of beauty and tranquility. I recommend it to everyone.