Reviews (11)

You haveto get no other books at all
If someones fatigued by endless buddhists-friends-philosophical-discussion want instead rapidly to proceed to Dzogchen (Preliminaries of it) practice, they need only one book and this is it.
perfect for anyone wanting insight to Tibetan Buddhism
Great to teach about Tibetan Buddhism.A great starting point.

Inspiring, and Informative
This book is a must read for all Tibetan Buddhists.I am only half way through chapter 2, but from these two chapters I can tell you that Patrul Rinpoche goes into great detail on all topics he covers.Warning: this book is not intended for beginners, it could be overwhelming for the un-initiated.I highly recommend getting the guide to this book, although the word "guide" is a little misleading, it is more of a complimentary book.
Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. China    4. Doctrines    5. Eastern - Zen    6. Philosophy    7. Rdzogs-chen (Rnin-ma-pa)    8. Rdzogs-chen (Räniçn-ma-pa)    9. Religion    10. Religion - World Religions    11. Spiritual life    12. Tibet    13. Religion / Buddhism   

Reviews (3)

Patchy
Though rated highly in some quarters (especially university campuses), I think this book is terribly over-rated. Its popularity may simply spring from the fact that Kasulis is conveying what people would like to hear, rather than what Rinzai (Lin-chi) had to say for himself. Don't trust me! - get hold of a good translation of the Rinzai Roku - and judge for yourself.
A clear, deep, and perceptive account of Zen.
Some years ago I undertook a fairly extensive program of reading in Zen.Most of my Zen books have since disappeared.Only the choicest remain, among which is the Kasulis. One of the Best Books Ever Written on Zen
Dr. Kasulis has written a masterpiece on Zen Buddhism. A clear, perceptive view on Zen doctrine and Zen practice. Other essential book recommendations on Zen, are the books by Eugen Herrigel- "Zen and the Art ofArchery" & "The Method of Zen". ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism - General    2. Eastern - Zen    3. General    4. Philosophy    5. Zen Buddhism    6. Non-Western philosophy   

Reviews (10)

THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE INTRODUCTION TO BUDDHISM OUT THERE!
Geshe Kelsang Gyasto's book An Introduction to Buddhism, distills all the basic, essential components of Buddhist thought and philosophy into a short, concise, clear, easy to read text that leaves the reader wanting to find out more about these beautiful teachings!
Quite a good guide for basic buddhism but....erm...
Do take note that the author, Kelsang Gyatso was apparently kicked out of the Sera Monastery for insulting the Dalai Lama and persisting doing an unorthodox practise that is not in line with the mainstream buddhism. Even so, the first few chapters of basic buddhism are correct and it's very easy to understand.

Beautiful Introduction to Buddhism. 10 Stars!
Geshe Kelsang Gyatso always writes with such wonderful compassion, and shares in his joy to reach and awaken humanity. "Buddha" means "awakened" and that is just what this wonderful book will guide you towards on your path, and bring you closer to the loving compassion and right mindfulness that will clear up and clarify so much for you. Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism - General    2. Religion    3. Religion - World Religions    4. Buddhism   

Reviews (9)

Fundaments of Semde
The book was an excellent introduction to a fundamental tantra of Semde.I wish the entire tantra was translated here, but what is included advanced my understanding.
End in and of itself
This book is a reward for many long years of philosophical/spiritual searching. The translation work put into this is a most significant achievement.The work displaces so much else in my library with regard to its area of knowledge/wisdom. I feel like having "arrived" after having read it.

A lucid gem of a book
This is one of the best Non-dual books that I have ever read.Much of original Buddha-ism is obscured in the diversity of Tibetan teachings.This book focuses only on the highest realization and clearly shows why other practices are lesser vehicles.This book is a gem intended only for the student of high awareness.The majority of students should stick to the yoga and tantra texts, to avoid getting lost and confused by the direct-nature of these teachings.But then again, if you are willing to surrender your beliefs of what is high and good and get to the Truth, this book may be exactly what you need.enJOY!!! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. Criticism, interpretation, etc    4. Devotional    5. Rdzogs-chen (Räniçn-ma-pa)    6. Religion    7. Religion - World Religions    8. Sarvadharmamahasantibodhici    9. Sarvadharmamahåaâsåantibodhicittakulayaråaja    10. Sutrapitaka    11. Såutrapiòtaka.    12. Tantra    13. Tantra.    14. Tripitaka    15. Tripiòtaka.    16. Religion / General    17. Tibetan Buddhism   

Reviews (2)

Very good book
I read this book during a book study class at my church.It provided a lot of insight that really spoke to me.I had always thought I could handle stress by control or sheer will.Now I jump on the dragon and enjoy the ride.Life will happen, it is up to us to decide whether it happens with us or in spite of us!God bless you all.

I needed this
I read this lastyear and several others by Dr. Wicks. It helps me to know that I am not the only one going through these things. I try to help people and then forget to take care of myself. This book shows us how we can live both sides of the coin best. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism - General    2. Inspirational    3. Inspirational - General    4. Motivational & Inspirational    5. Religion    6. Spiritual    7. Spirituality - General    8. Coping with stress   

Reviews (2)

Thank You Bhikku Bohdi!
This book was incredibly helpful to me. I would recommend it as the most beautiful exposition of the Eightfold Noble Path that I'm aware of.It has informed my readings of other Sutra's and my practice tremendously.My deepest gratitude to the author.

Excellent explanation of the buddhist path
This book really took me to the next level of my understanding of the Buddhist eightfold path. Which is:
Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. Eastern - Buddhism    4. Religion    5. Religion - World Religions    6. Religion / Buddhism    7. Eightfold Path   

Reviews (13)

An amazing book and probably the best introduction to tantra available!
Tibetan Buddhism is a very complex and difficult topic to explain to anyone, especially people from the West.Lama Yeshe had a rare gift to take difficult concepts, present them logically and concisely, in a way that brings the essence of tantra to life.
on death and after death
This is primarily a non-sexual exploration of Tantra. Al particularly liked the section on the subject of death and after death.

Comforting and Informative for the Beginner
Tantra is a very complex and difficult subject to understand. This book is like a cooling drink after suffering under the heatlamp of one's own neuroses in trying to understand and incorporate this sublime spiritual teaching into one's own life. Actually, tantra is not so difficult, but it is our own delusions that cloud us from penetrating its inner core. Thus, guidance from a teacher as insightful and compassionate as Lama Yese is invaluable!
Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism - General    2. Doctrines    3. Eastern - General    4. Religion    5. Religion - World Religions    6. Spiritual life    7. Tantric Buddhism    8. Buddhism    9. Religion / Buddhism    10. Religion / Eastern   

Editorial Review

Considering the huge number of books that beloved Buddhist master Thich Nhat Hanh has put out, we really need a "best of" collection. Here we have it, in Read more

Reviews (4)

Just as the Title Suggest
"Essential Writings" are essential readings. Simple and straight forward teachings that again show us mindfulness training useful in everyday life. His teachings promote self awareness and happiness. Read, breathe, practice. Peace.

A great book by a great man.
This is an excellent book.It really is a good collection from a range of his teachings.It is easy and delightful to read and covers all the topics.It is my favorite book so far.

everyone should read this book
This dude really has it.really.I have a pile of books on philosophy, zen, taoism, happiness, etc.and this is the one that I carry with me, that I read before I go to bed, that I recommend to people, because this is beautiful.As important to me as "the prophet" by Kahlil Gibran, which is important to me. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. Buddhism - Tibetan    4. Doctrines    5. Religion    6. Religion - World Religions    7. Religious Life (Buddhism)    8. Religious life    9. Spirituality - General    10. Spirituality   

Reviews (4)

Generally, a useful study.
People who wish to learn more about 'Buddhist Ethics' will find this book useful. Along with Damien Keown's books, Peter Harvey's study will be invaluable for those who have neither the time nor the resources to explore primary sources for themselves.
Excellent intro to Buddhist Ethics, a rare standard.
Peter Harvey, Professor of Buddhist Studies at the University of Sunderland, has a lot of experience in the field of Buddhist Studies and it shows. Starting with the `Shared Foundations of Buddhist Ethics', he goes on with key `Buddhist Values.' Then he covers the `Mahayana emphases and adaptations,' after which he deals with the practicalities of Buddhist ethics: the Natural world, economic ethics, war and peace, suicide and euthanasia, abortion and contraception, sexual equality, and homosexuality and other forms of `queerness.' It is amazing how he managed to gather so much information on this area, not to mention his impressing knowledge of the texts of most traditions. This sometimes leads to too many traditions cited per chapter, making it hard for the reader to distinguish between them (unless, of course, you are familar with the sources cited.)It can be used most fruitfully when critically taught.

A good introduction... though it has its faults....
This is a really good introduction for people who a) are knowledgable about Western ethical theories and want to see things from a different perspective of b) people getting into Buddhism who want a good general introduction into what people have thought about what people have thought that Siddhartha Gotama thought and taught. This book is divided into sections first which illustrate bases of Buddhist ethical practices and then how these practices have effected different issue-areas (the environment, homosexuality, etc.) Thus far, this is a remarkable book.... I like it a lot....Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism - General    2. Religion    3. Religion - World Religions    4. Buddhism    5. Buddhist ethics    6. Religion / Buddhism   

Reviews (6)

Wabi-Sabi, Huh?????
In answering the question of what Wabi-Sabi means to me, I have to go with the concept that less is more, and it really doesn't matter if the expense of doing something is astronomical or well within one's budget. What does it all say abut you and what your attempting to achieve? Are you talking about your home, your life style, your neighborhood and or your friends and family? What will tell everyone and anyone who just walks in off the street that you are practicing Wabi-Sabi? How can they see that you are not being a whacko or over extravicant andare just showing you that life can be what is just right for you and your place of abode and not be the perfect place to beat all perfection?
A good organizational reference book
There is so much beauty in simplicity.This book offers many helpful suggestions in how to simplify your decor and your life.

A wonderful book!
I have told everyone I know to get this book as a starter to the world of Wabi-Sabi-- a beautiful cover also makes it lovely to look at and I like the sepia pages... I have re-examined my life using some of her practical tips.Get it if you are curious about this art of imperfection... ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Decorating    3. Decorating - General    4. Decoration and ornament    5. Hobbies/Crafts    6. Home Improvement / Construction    7. Influence    8. Interior decoration    9. Japan    10. Psychological aspects    11. Themes, motives    12. Zen Buddhism    13. Home furnishing & decoration    14. House & Home / Decorating   

Editorial Review

The bad old days of multiple-choice-test career counseling are over. It takes more than a #2 pencil and a computer to find your life's work, as career consultant Laurence G. Boldt tells us in Read more

Reviews (36)

An amazing resource for people looking for meaning in their work
I am an integral coach who does a lot of career counseling. This is hands down my absolute favorite book on this topic because it provides inspiration, practical tools and presents good information in a way that is very easy for anyone to understand.
if you like what i've written, you'll love what he's written
Do you seek more than the conventional nine-to-five job.do you seek a job that can advance your spiritual life. a job that merely positions you to solve problem after problem or a job that will help you reveal life's mysteries.a job where you fill you pockets til your last day or a job that helps you contribute to the well being of others?
Some nice ideas, but too prolix to be Zen centered.
It would have been more honest (and less pretentious) if the author had not succumbed to the temptation to present this book as a kind of corollary of Zen. When push comes to shove, Zen Buddhism doesn't earn its living as a career-aid. Its primary purpose is to help provide an answer to the problem of suffering and impermanence (as the Buddha taught) - albeit in a form developed by Far-eastern Buddhists.
Read more

Subjects:  1. Business & Economics    2. Career development    3. Career/Job    4. Careers - General    5. Careers / Job Opportunities    6. Personal Growth - Success    7. Religious aspects    8. Religious life    9. Vocational guidance    10. Zen Buddhism    11. Advice on careers & achieving success    12. Business & Economics / Careers   

Reviews (11)

A thoughtful companion on the spiritual journey of motherhood
"Momma Zen" is a book to come back to again and again.I dip into it whenever I am having a difficult day, or just seeking inspiration during a quiet moment.Usually I gobble books cover-to-cover, but Karen Maezen Miller's work is wonderful when savored in small bites."Momma Zen" reads like a series of thougthtful discussions with a wise friend.
A Book You'll Refer to Again and Again
I found this book comforting, reassuring and humorous.As a working mom with a 22-month old, the sections on discipline, simplicity and perspective spoke the most loudly to me.
Simply wonderful!
I am a new Mom and with all of the books out there on motherhood and parenting, it's hard to find one that is as wonderful as this little gem and not preachy or giving you all kinds of impractical advice.
Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism - Zen    2. Parent And Child    3. Parenting - Motherhood    4. Religion    5. Religion - World Religions    6. Zen Buddhism    7. Religion / Zen Buddhism   

Reviews (14)

You gotta love Ray.
This book like all Ray Bradbury books makes you smile and gives a glimpse of the day to day working (or playing) of a true craftsman.He shows how he jumps off the cliff and builds his wings on the way down - and though most of us will never succeed to the extent that we ever soar like Ray Bradbury, it's still fun to watch.

Zest. Gusto. Curiosity.
I thought when I saw the title and the author that the book would be related to just Sci-Fi writing, but it goes beyond that. This is one of those easy reads that provides pleasant inspiration.
Bradbury shines
This is a unique little book of essays and poetry.
Read more

Subjects:  1. Authorship    2. Bradbury, Ray - Prose & Criticism    3. Composition & Creative Writing - General    4. Creative ability    5. Essays    6. Literary Collections    7. Literary Criticism    8. Literature - Classics / Criticism    9. Literature: Classics    10. Zen Buddhism    11. Literary Collections / Essays   

Reviews (10)

The Essence of Buddhism
There are thousands of books out there for people interested in Buddhism, but few of them get to the core of what it's all about and why it's so important to practice, practice, practice. This is undoubtedly the best. Just the first chapter alone is perhaps the best summary I've ever read of what Buddhism really is.

Best first book
I used to always recommend Walpola Rahula's "What the Buddha Taught" as the best first read for someone looking to get started with Buddhism but now I think I'd recommend this instead. Rahula's book seems better for those with just an intellectual interest in Buddhism, but this book seems better for those who are ready to start changing their life. An absolute gem.

Meaningful words for checking the ego.
A book that transcends the page and leaves the reader with insight long after putting it down.It is written in a style that is easy for Western Bhuddist readers to comprehend.Well worth the time and money to read.Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. General    4. Inspirational - General    5. Religion    6. Religion - World Religions    7. Spiritual life    8. Body, Mind & Spirit / Meditation    9. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques   

Editorial Review

After D.T. Suzuki, Alan Watts stands as the godfather of Zen in America. Often taken to task for inspiring the flimsy spontaneity of Beat Zen, Watts had an undeniably keen understanding of his subject. Nowhere is this more evident than in his 1957 classic Read more

Reviews (32)

The Greatest Book I Have Ever Read
Buy this book! Its amazing. Watts historical preface to Buddhism aids in its practical understanding. He has a way of getting to the very nature of the Buddhist perspective. Althought not a book for instruction ("Buddhism: Plain & Simple" by Stevn Hagen is a good one) "Way of Zen" is a perfect introduction to Buddhism, its Hindu roots, and more specifically, Zen Buddhism, and its Chinese roots. BUY THIS BOOK.

Zen Content, Zen Form, sort of...
I think the principle virtues of this text are simplicity, directness and clarity.Watts seems to have considerable intellectual understanding of Zen, and equally importantly, intuition about its inner content.He writes about Zen in a somewhat Zen-like way; not with a series of enigmas and paradoxes, but with a simple and direct narrative that covers the essential history and practice of Zen, interspersed with numerous relevant and potent quotes, and manages to lay this on the table with an intuitive immediacy that is refreshing and indeed uplifting.It's a good book.

Nothing Goes On Forever
It's hard to recommend a specific Watts intro. Indeed, some may find this text extremely tough reading. All I can say is, "have a dabble", reading Watts is a life changing experience. Also recommend Audiobooks (from iTunes) containing his early lectures.
Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism - General    2. Eastern - Zen    3. Philosophy    4. Zen Buddhism    5. Philosophy / Eastern   

Editorial Review

In any meditation class, one of the first things one learns is the importance of breathing. For Larry Rosenberg, a seasoned instructor of insight meditation, the breath is everything. And he's not in bad company since the Buddha himself delivered a sutra on the subject. Rosenberg's Read more

Reviews (18)

An Extremely Insightful Guide for New and Experienced Meditators
I've been practicing insight meditation for almost 2 years now, and I've read many books about Buddhism and meditation.
The basic Anapanasati Sutra
The Anapanasati Sutra is the simplest of the several teachings of the Buddha on mindfulness and meditation. In many ways it is the very basis of the Vapassana tradition and the core of Insight Meditation. Mr. Rosenberg does not get carried away with this teaching, but approaches the sutra in a traditional manner. Of the many meditation books I have read, including better known Insight Meditation books, this is the easiest to understand and follow. Mr. Rosenberg is a very experienced teacher of this approach to meditation and the book shows it.
A great introductory meditation book
This is an excellent introductory book for any meditation student, but it particularly well suited to a serious beginner.
Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism - General    2. Eastern - General    3. Meditation    4. Philosophy    5. Religion - World Religions    6. åAnåapåanasmôrti    7. Religion / Buddhism   

Reviews (5)

What a Wonderful Book!!
Mommy Mantras is such a positive and inspiring book! While realistically acknowledging that motherhood can be stressful, mundane, and scary, the authors nevertheless strongly concentrate on the positive aspects of motherhood too, and offer numerous ways to turn any negative situation around!! It is a book that parents can repeatedly return to for guidance, inspiration, and laughs!!

Not to be missed...
A terrific book for first time (or fifth time!) moms. Meaningful and accessible, the authors distill critical parenting themes into mantras that can be pondered and used at difficult or stressful times. The fact that the foibles and frustrations of the authors themselves are used for discussion make this especially entertaining.
a wonderful book, even for non- mommies!
I loved this book; I found the affirmations helpful, informative, witty and clever!
Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - Rituals & Practice    3. Child Development And Rearing    4. Family & Relationships    5. Family / Parenting / Childbirth    6. Family/Marriage    7. Motherhood    8. Mothers    9. Parenting    10. Parenting - Motherhood    11. Religious Life (Buddhism)    12. Religious aspects    13. Religious life    14. Family & Relationships / Motherhood   

Reviews (7)

It gets the job done.... sort of
If you are interested in zen meditation, and have no experience ,this is a good start, but there are many nonchristian meditation books out there that do a better job.If you want an analysis of christian and zen beliefs this does a decent job, but is very redundant at times and is mostly an account of the author's personal experiences.All in all the book is just OK, not good and not bad.

A partial reconciliation
While it is true that one could practice, say, yoga, and practice it well and fairly near completeness and still be a Christian, it is a bit of a stretch to fully immerse oneself in Zen Buddhism and remain a Christian. Or vice-versa.
Great Book
Zen for Christians is a fantastic book for those wishing to learn more on the basics of zen meditation.This is a step by step guide to getting the most out of your meditation.I would recommend this book to any christian who is hesitant about the merger of another religion.It really is simply a christians guide to better meditation and not a guide to merge any religions. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism - Zen    2. Christianity    3. Christianity - General    4. Christianity and other religio    5. Christianity and other religions    6. Comparative Religion    7. Relations    8. Religion    9. Religion - World Religions    10. Spiritual life    11. Zen Buddhism    12. Boykin, Kim    13. Christian life & practice    14. Religion / Christian Life    15. Self-Help   

Reviews (1)

highly recomended
This work pulls together a wide range of material covering the history of Buddhism in Cambodia.Considering just how bare the book shelves are on this topic, I can only jump with joy that it has appeared. Problems with the historical record are carefully pointed out with ample references and cautionary notes for those who would look further.This book should be an essential part of anybody's collection on the development of contemporary Buddhisms in Southeast Asia. Just one small point: there is a most welcome inclusion of oral histories (for example with reference to the origin of place names - but there is insufficient warning that there are often many legendary origins for names - a case in point is the origin of the name of Phnom Sambau and Phom Krabau - certainly Harris is correct, but this is not the only version by any means.Highly recommend this book to anybody interested in the area but would equally strongly suggest reading it alongside Marston and Guthrie (2004) to round out some aspects of modern Buddhism. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. Buddhism - History    4. Buddhism and politics    5. Cambodia    6. History    7. Political atrocities    8. Religion    9. Religion - World Religions    10. History of religion