Reviews (2)

a wonderful introduction to the history of Zen
Basically the book is just what it claims to be: a history of Zen Buddhism in China (it says "India" because it discusses the precursors to Zen in the Mahayana tradition and yoga). It is perfect for students interested in the topic.
Recommended for advanced students and scholars of Buddhism and religious history
Zen Buddhism: A History India And China is a new edition of volume 1 of the classic two- volume history by Heinrich Dumoulin (1905-1995), one of the world's most renowned Zen scholars. Covering the emergence of Zen through India and China, the new edition also includes additional notes by James W. Heisig of the Nanzan Institute for Religion and Culture; a new introduction by John R. McRae of Indiana University exploring recent developments in the study of Zen; and the complete original text. An excellent, thoroughly researched, in-depth history especially recommended for advanced students and scholars of Buddhism and religious history.
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Subjects:  1. Buddhism - History    2. Buddhism - Zen    3. History    4. History Of Religion (General)    5. Religion    6. Religion - World Religions    7. Zen Buddhism    8. Oriental & Indian philosophy   

Reviews (2)

A book aboutgrowing up (valuable at any age :-)
In this book Norman Fischer and four young boys undertake a joint journey of discovery what it means to mature, to take our places. They discuss qualities of grown-ups they like "responsible without being boring, experienced without being closed-minded, self-accepting without being shut off to change and improvement, loving without being corny, and strong without being brittle." It is a wonderful incentive to look at our grown-upness :-)
A Lyrical, Moving, Insightful Guide to Living Life Fully
This is a wonderful book for anyone trying to make sense of their life with a little more awareness and clarity. It's a welcoming read that blends wisdom with warmth and humour. Norman Fischer's study of what it means to really grow up may have begun with his mentoring of teenage boys, but the scope of his study quickly broadened and deepened into a discovery of what it means for any of us to truly be adults in this world. Fischer's seasoned Zen practice (some thirty-plus years) is grounded in its applicability to real world situations, and offers practical tools, not just abstract meditations on the matter. There is a wealth of thought-provoking material, for Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike, for those just entering the years when they wonder what on earth being an adult might mean, and for those of us long ago arrived in adulthood and still wondering what on earth it might mean. Heck, also for those who think they know and could use a refresher course! The infectious enthusiasm of every endorsement on the Taking Our Places jacket reflects the great heart of this former San Francisco Zen Center abbot, in abundant evidence throughout the pages of this book. Why wait till things fall apart? Buy the book now! ... Read more

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

Reviews (1)

A classic!
It's a real shame that this book is out of print.This is one of the great, classic studies of the history of the development of Zen.Volume 1 (this one) covers the antecedents of Zen in India to its development in China.Volume 2 covers Zen in Japan.I've only read volume 1, but I learned a lot about both the history of Zen and also its philosophy.Dumoulin is one of the great scholars of the history of Zen, and although he is not always philosophically acute, you will get some genuine insights into Zen doctrine by reading this.(Of course, according to Zen, the doctrine isn't really what's important!) ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism - General    2. Comparative Religion    3. Eastern - Zen    4. History    5. Religion    6. Religion - World Religions    7. Zen Buddhism    8. China    9. History of religion    10. India    11. Taoism   

Reviews (1)

Mysteries of the Sword
From the the start to the end of the Art of Advantage it is the Way of the Longsword and the Side Arm.
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Subjects:  1. Asia - Japan    2. Eastern - Zen    3. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    4. Philosophy    5. Japan    6. Oriental & Indian philosophy   

Reviews (3)

Wonderful Work
Sokei-An is astonishingly a very little known name to quite a few practitioners of Zen in the west; he was basically a pioneer in it's taking hold here as a valuable approach towards this very life. As Zen master Dae Gak reviewed earlier (a dharma heir of Zen master Seung Sahn), Sokei-An had the true heart of a bodhisattva. There are a lot of esoteric definitions in this work, however, and some background in Pali and Sanskrit will make this read even more worthwhile for you. Truly, it is a magnificent work on Zen. But it's no Compass of Zen (by Seung Sahn), that I must pronounce. So while you are destined to take a breadth of knowledge away from reading this book, I kind of disagree that it's for everyone (beginner and adept). Simply because some fundamental information into the meaning of many of the words he uses are required. Now, Mary Farkas does provide us with a word list in the ending pages of this book. That is to their credit. But occasionally it is nice to hear Zen put truly in American language, so as we don't need to know the definition of a definition, to see where an author is pointing us. Funny how I sound somewhat critical in these remarks, but my appraisal nonetheless is only that of applause. It's truly a wonderful book when approached with a clear and open mind.

Paradox comes to the west
Seemingly, like all Zen books, there are paradoxes in the writing. For example "For about twenty years I thought I was greatly benefited by Buddhism, but in the last twenty years I have been ungaining everything I learned. To gain nothing is always the conclusion of Buddhism".There were some rough lectures for my "beginner mind" but there are some real gems, particularly when imparting stories of the Buddha or monks. Great Book, good for beginner and experienced Zen student.
This is a wonderful book.It is clear, incisive and I recommend Zen Pivots without hesitation or consideration. It is a welcome companion to Zen Eye. Sokei-An and his devoted student Mary Farkas have done a greatservice to those Zen practitioners in the West with their clarity,persistence and compassion.Sokei-An has a good understanding of Westernculture and this, combined with his enlightened perspective are atrustworthy bridge from Zen in the East to Zen in the West.He finds thatplace where "East" and "West" no longer exist andarticulates this wisdom brilliantly for all beings.A true bodhisattva. -- Zen Master Dae Gak ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism - General    2. Eastern - Zen    3. Philosophy    4. Philosophy / Zen    5. Religion    6. Religion / Zen Buddhism    7. Religious life    8. Zen Buddhism    9. Buddhism    10. Zen    11. Zen Philosophy   

Reviews (8)

Highly recommended
Reading Cinema Nirvana was an exceptionally gratifying experience.It was hard to put the book down, and every time I tried to do so, I was drawn back to it.The reading of it was a comforting experience, as well as being entertaining and making me laugh.When I poked my head out of its waters, I felt like I had been meditating for quite a while.
Captivating
Thoroughly enjoyable capture of the nuggets of dharma illustrated in film.This was a grand gift of a book.

A terrific book and a way fun read!
Cinema Nirvana is a terrific book and a way fun read. I want to go over some of it again because it is quite thought provoking for me. I got a non-New-Age-Oh-Wow-How-Cosmic-Dude look at roots of some of my own beliefs and practices. Completely unexpected, and pleasantly surprising. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Cinema/Film: Book    2. Eastern - Zen    3. Film & Video - Guides & Reviews    4. Film & Video - History & Criticism    5. Moral and ethical aspects    6. Motion pictures    7. Performing Arts    8. Pop Arts / Pop Culture    9. Performing Arts / Film / Guides & Reviews   

Reviews (15)

Uncommonly perceptive
I've read lots and lots of memoirs by Westerners on their experiences with Buddhism, but for me none are as well written and wisely perceptive as this. Shainberg has an unusual ability to report honestly and vividly on both his inner life and the behavior of his teacher. He doesn't try to be profound nor funny nor eloquent, but his account ends up having all these qualities.

Confessions of an egoist...
A long painful read by a self-obsessed masochist.The best part about it is the inside dope on many of the patriachs of American Zen. The worst is listening to this narcissist rail against himself for being too egoistic and selfish. If only he had a sense of irony, it might redeem this book. If you want a book that will helpful in your zen practice, try Glimpses of Nothingness by Jan Willem Van Der Wetering or My Master's Robe by Thich Nhat Hahn.

Hysterically Funny Book; Hope It Won't Scare Too Many Away
First, a little background for this review. I spent 35 years searching for the truth (Who am I? Where did I come from? Is there a God? What are subatomic particles? What could explain the "observer paradoxes" in quantum mechanics? etc.). Zen helped me find everything I was searching for (it required 15 years of attentiveness).Although I ultimately left Zen behind, I am unspeakably grateful for all the help I received from various Zen Masters and other Zen practitioners I met along the way.
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Subjects:  1. Biography / Autobiography    2. Buddhism - General    3. Eastern - Zen    4. Religion    5. Religious    6. Spirituality - General    7. Buddhism    8. Religion / Spirituality   

Editorial Review

The Dear Abby of Zen, Seung Sahn must be one the most prolific letter writers in history, not to mention one of the most successful Zen masters. With more than 60 centers on six continents, Seung Sahn has inspired thousands of students to take up Zen practice and has managed the seemingly impossible task of nurturing a genuine monastic Zen tradition on Western soil. Many of these students write him letters with their questions, and he never fails to respond. Read more

Reviews (4)

Humorous, wonderful book
Often humorous, wonderful book taken from Korean Zen Master Seung's talks, letters and interviews with students. This is a book you can pick up time and again. I first read it nearly 20 years ago and always enjoy opening it. Stephen Mitchell was an early (as Americans go) student of Seung Sahn's and has gone on to a career of writing and translating many spiritual books.

Help All Beings
What could be said about Zen Master Seung Sahn, how could we thank him for his wonderful teachings? I have practiced Kwan Um Zen for a few years now, read plenty of literature by many many good teachers, but I don't know. None seem to have the language that Seung Sahn has. I would not call it basic, because I know plenty of people who at times find his style downright "Buddhist blasphemy". This book is a collection of letters between students. Someone pointed out in another review that Zen Master Seung Sahn is not the first to publish letters- I don't see what that has to do with wisdom. I mean, Buddhist literature in general has been 'done before", this does not detract from the teachings. It enriches them. Straight-talking Zen for America
He isn't the first Zen teacher to offer his teaching via letters.(The teaching letters of Ta-Hui come to mind...)But has there ever been a more prolific correspondent?Until recent years, Zen Master Seung Sahn would answer every letter students or perfect strangers sent him, and bundles of letters would chase him from city to city as he flew around America in the seventies and eighties, teaching wherever the airlines would take him.Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism - Zen    2. Correspondence    3. Eastern - Zen    4. Philosophy    5. Priests, Zen    6. Religion    7. Religion - World Religions    8. Religious life    9. United States    10. Zen Buddhism    11. Zen Buddhists    12. Biography: general    13. Religion / Zen Buddhism   

Reviews (4)

Ancient Gong-An Practice
I've dicovered that a LOT of people get downright angry when you start to elucidate Zen to be anything beyond "do-your-own-thing". I hope you're not going to be one of those people...
Honored to do Business
This seller had not only fast shipping, but the product was just as they described, I would highly recommend them to my friends and they stand by their product and shippinig.
Still the only complete translation
Cleary's version of the Blue Cliff Record (Chin. Pi Yen Lu. J. Hekiganroku)is the only translation giving the whole text, so it was surprising to find no review for it in the Amazon.com files. But then, the Blue Cliff Record' - undoubtedly the most sophisticated collection of Zen 'koan' (chin. kung-an) material, could hardly be reviewed in the linear sense at all, as one might approach ordinary literature. Those for whom such texts matter most in the West - viz. Buddhists using such material as part of their training, would hasten to add that minus Zen practice, the Blue Cliff Record is as good as a 'closed book.' Casual readers may find a certain itchy fascination in these pithy Zen sayings, but a true appreciation of them presupposes something akin to Zen practice. At any rate, to discover anything of value in this book, depends on what you bring to it. To take that position is not necessarily Zen 'snobbery.' That was how the authors of the Blue Cliff Record intended it to be 'savoured' - whether by monks or lay-Buddhists.
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Subjects:  1. Buddhism - Zen    2. Early works to 1800    3. Eastern - Zen    4. Koan    5. Philosophy    6. Zen Buddhism    7. Buddhism    8. Religion / Zen Buddhism   

Reviews (6)

"Do not be amazed by the true dragon."---Dogen
Peter Muryo Matthiessen is an eclectic man. Best known for his lyrical prose classic THE SNOW LEOPARD (excerpts from which make up the central portion of this book), Matthiessen has founded a well-known magazine ("The Paris Review") written fiction (AT PLAY IN THE FIELDS OF THE LORD, FAR TORTUGA), and on such varied non-fiction subjects as Great White Sharks (BLUE MERIDIAN, the inspiration for JAWS), Native American issues (IN THE SPIRIT OF CRAZY HORSE), East African conservation (THE TREE WHERE MAN WAS BORN), Long Island fishermen (MEN'S LIVES), and on the art of authorship itself in ZEN AND THE WRITING LIFE.
Universality Particularized
While the book is organized for the most part chronologically, I have enlisted three major themes Simply the Best Book on Zen Buddhism
I believe this work by Matthiessen is simply the best written, most accessible and enlightening work on Zen Buddhism out there.For those who disagree, please post your own recommendation.It's a huge challenge (if not a Mission Impossible) to write a powerful, poetic and insightful autobiography on Zen Buddhism.We are very fortunate to have someone of Matthiessen's genius to introduce Zen to the Western world in a such powerful way.I am very grateful to the author for this treasure of a book. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. 20th century    2. American - General    3. Authors, American    4. Buddhism - Zen    5. Diaries    6. Eastern - Zen    7. Literary Criticism    8. Matthiessen, Peter - Prose & Criticism    9. Philosophy    10. Religion - World Religions    11. Religious life    12. United States    13. Zen Buddhism    14. Zen Buddhists    15. Biography: general    16. Buddhism    17. Dutch    18. Religion / Zen Buddhism    19. USA    20. c 1960 to c 1970    21. c 1970 to c 1980    22. c 1980 to c 1990   

Reviews (2)

A must read for students of riding and students of life
Ingrid Sorens' touching recount of her first years of riding is intelligent and insightful.I think it is fabulous that someone riding for such a relativley short period of time was able to come to the realization of allowing the horse to just be and not get in their way, the path to truly harmonious riding. Calming and wonderful
The cover photo and the title is what caught my eye.And we are a horse loving, horse riding family going back generations. And the book is small. A tad bigger than 5X7 but it is so full of wisdom.And until I read it I never had thought of the Zen aspect of horses. Their stillness and power and the way they just "are".Read more

Subjects:  1. Animals    2. Animals / Pets    3. Eastern - Zen    4. Equestrian    5. Horsemanship    6. Horses    7. Horses - Riding    8. Nature    9. Nature/Ecology    10. Zen Buddhism    11. Sports & Recreation / Equestrian   

Reviews (4)

Its worth the time
No, this is not the typical book on Buhddism, and that is why it appealed to me.The author, who lives in New York City has presented a very readable, easy to follow, guide on how to bring the basic aspects of buhhdism into our everyday lifes, and presents it in a FUN way. One suggestions she presents for when you are stuck in traffic, as most of us city dwellers can relate to, is instead of wasting engery getting upset, why not "practice thinking good thoughts about the people around you - especially the ones who are driving or acting like idiots..."
Buddhism basics tailored for the modern young woman
This book does a good job of teaching the (very) basics of Buddhism in a way that is appealing to their target audience (young women in their 20's and 30's.) While Buddhism scholars would most likely find it shallow and simplistic (it mentions sex positions!), it fulfills its intended purpose quite well.
Review by Mary A. Jacobs from The Dallas Morning News-submitted
"Girl Seeks Bliss" by Nicole Beland - The cover exposes this book's obvious marketing recipe: Take two hot trends in publishing (chick lit and spirituality), mix and make money.
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Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. Buddhism - Zen    4. Doctrines    5. Eastern - Zen    6. Motivational & Inspirational    7. Religion - World Religions    8. Religious life    9. Self-Help    10. Spirituality - Women's    11. Self-Help / Motivational   

Reviews (1)

Will interest all serious students of Dogen.
DOGEN STUDIES.Edited by William R. LaFleur.Kuroda Institute : Studies in East Asian Buddhism No.2.165 pp. Honolulu : University of Hawaii Press, 1992.Read more

Subjects:  1. 1200-1253    2. Buddhism    3. Dogen,    4. Dåogen,    5. Eastern - Zen    6. Literary Criticism    7. Philosophy    8. Dogen   

Reviews (4)

He was my Teacher in Japan
I gave up everything to become a Zen monk. In London I met Sochu Suzuki Roshi, then sub-abbot under Soen Nakagawa of Ryutakuji monastery in Japan. His Zen led me to travel from England for immersion in true Zen, disappointed with the short-pedigree western zen that I found at home.
I am joining - in your meeting - with one mind!
My favorate Soen Roshi story, not found in the book, goes as follows; once during a T.V. interview Soen was asked about his foundness for wine - was drinking an appropriate behavior for a priest?Soen replyed, 'If you always do what your Mama says you'll never be a playboy!'.
Magnificent artist - outre Zen master
Nakagawa Soen was marvellous artist and a poetic genius. He was one of the first spokesmen of Zen Buddhism in America, and one of the most eccentric. However it would be incorrect to call this wonderful character an exceptional master in the Japanese Rinzai line. Nakagawa Soen's "Inka" (authorization to teach) came from a single Japanese master of the Sozan Genkyo line. It was never independently verified. Consequently those who studied with this magnificent eccentric and themselves teach Zen tend to pass on his unusual views. The Zen master who best exemplifies the no-nonsense spirit of Rinzai Zen in America is Kyozan Joshu Sasaki, founder of Rinzai-Ji. Joshu Roshi's Zen is as solid as Nakagawa Soen's was ethereal. Nevertheless for breathtaking haiku and unforgettable images, graphic and verbal, there is no one like Nakagawa Soen. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. 1907-    2. Buddhism - General    3. Buddhism - Zen    4. Eastern - Zen    5. Nakagawa, Soen,    6. Religion    7. Religion - World Religions    8. Translations into English    9. Zen Buddhism    10. Zen poetry, Japanese    11. Nakagawa, Soen    12. Religion / Zen Buddhism   

Reviews (1)

Authoritative, clear account of central philosophical issues
Based on the author's presentations at Eranos conferences, these essay positively sparkle with unique insight into the Japanese Zen traditions. Izutsu was raised within a traditional Japanese Zen milieu and so he bringsan exceptional authority and clarity to his musings upon some of thecentral issues of Zen such as the nature of satori and Zen's influence uponaesthetics. Anyone interested in a philosophical appreciation of Zen willfind his remarks suggestive. ... Read more

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

Reviews (2)

Carl Rogers meets the Buddha
I highly recommend this book for anyone who practices psychotherapy andwho truly wants to be 'engaged' in a genuine processwith their clients. Zen and the Heart of Psychotherapy uncovers a process of mutual growth andtransformation that can occur for both the client AND the therapist usingbasic Zenprinciples and ideas. This book does not get encumbered inEastern ambiguity or unnecessary and technical Buddhist semantics. Regardless of your or your client's spiritual belief system, the ideaspresented can be considered universally and are useful in not only forginga strong therapeutic alliance in the here and now, but also for faciliatinggrowth, transformation and healing of mind, body and spirit.

Best book on zen and psychotherapy I have read
I have read both of Mark Epstein's books on buddhism and psychotherapy, as well as David Brazier's book. No offense intended to those authors, but Rosenbaum's book was by far the most exceptional one. While his liberal use of zen terms might be a little off-putting to 'pure' therapists, the messages conveyed should be extremely helpful, both for working with clients and in learning to live more fulfilling lives ourselves. While the book is directed mainly toward therapists, clients (and everyone else, for that matter)would likely be drawn in as well. Therapists intrigued by Rosenbaum's book should also check out "Acceptance and Commitment Therapy" by Hayes, Strosahl,& Wilson. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism - General    2. Eastern - Zen    3. Psychology    4. Psychopathology - Compulsive Behavior    5. Psychotherapy - General    6. Buddhism    7. Psychology & Psychiatry / Psychotherapy    8. Psychotherapy   

Reviews (6)

You'll never snub a panhandler again
This book is a masterpiece because Bernie Glassman's life and work is a masterpiece.His activism is truly awe-inspiring. PEACE LOVING
THIS BOOK TELLS HOW TO MAKE PEACE IN OUR HEARTS AND IN THE WORLD BY SHARING SPIRITUAL WISDOM , INSIGHTS AND EXPERIENCES. THE 16 PEACEMAKER VOWS ARE POWERFUL. VERY UNLIFTING BOOK.

A Peacemaker's Manual
For anyone interested in making peace both within and without, or who is interested in combining spiritual practice with social action, Roshi Glassman's book is a "must read."He does a fine job ofarticulating and describing the spititual foundations of peacemaking in avery clear and straightforward manner.I found them both moving andhelpful in my own search for a peacemaking path. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Doctrines    2. Eastern - Zen    3. General    4. Peace    5. Philosophy    6. Psychology    7. Religion    8. Religious aspects    9. Spiritual life    10. Spirituality - General    11. Zen Buddhism    12. Religion / Spirituality   

Reviews (2)

worth a listen
With reference to the review from the reader in Cincinnati - It is hard to believe that Osho was ever involved in ANY scandal when you study his message which is as clear and pure as any I have read. Obviously, those around him DID at ONE time do bizarre things - and in MOST cases it IS wise to steer clear of any teacher whose followers are troubled - but trust me - in THIS case, don't be put off. amazingly poor
As a long-time Buddhist, i can say this is the least Enlightened talk on Zen I've ever encountered. Didn't know who Osho was, but now that I know the scandal (after which he changed his name from Rajneesh). Avoid this. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Abridged Audio - Inspirational/Philosophy    2. Audio Adult: Other    3. Eastern - Zen    4. Inspirational - General    5. Meditations    6. Unabridged Audio - Inspirational/Philosophy   

Reviews (1)

Accessible introduction
Accessible introduction for bringing Eastern philosophy into sport. Playing in the zone, Yin and Yang, mind, body, belief. Written by a tennis player who was sidelined due to injury, found Zen, played better, and became a coach. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Eastern - Zen    2. Philosophy, Oriental    3. Psychological aspects    4. Sports    5. Sports & Recreation    6. Tennis   

Reviews (4)

Ordinary Zen
There are quite a few long reviews on this book that should suffice for a detailed information without my two cents added.I will, however, note that this book lacks much of the glamor so often attributed to Zen masters.'Shobogenzo Zuimonki' is plain and straight-forward, and Dogen does not lead one to indulge in wild, philosophical explorations.Rather, he points to a quite ordinary and much more 'down-to-Earth' Zen, which is refreshingly simple.

More like a collection of talks given by Dogen
"A Primer of Soto Zen: A Translation of Dogen's Shobogenzo Zuimonki" is a very misleading title. I remember I bought this book at a Soto Zen Center bookstore the second time I visited, hoping to understand the Soto Zen tradition and learn more about who Dogen was and how to do zazen. This book does not answer any of these questions. It is rather a collection of talks given by Dogen to his students which were written down by his disciple Ejo. It is also very wrong to assume that this text was intended to be a textbook for a certain school of thought as Dogen was not interested in estabalishing a school but rather in practing in the way of Sakyamuni Buddha. On the back of this book, it says that Zuimonki can be roughly translated as "easy for ears to understand" or "simplified." Shobogenzo("The Eye of the True Dharma") is of course Dogen's 92 chapter magnum opus(which I shall read one day when I have lots and lots of time on my hands) that addresses everything from enlightenment to how monks should flush a toilet when living the monastic life. So this can be looked at as a simplified version of Dogen's Shobogenzo. The tone and content of the talks suggest this as well. Dogen's greatest gift as a Zen Master was to clearly and rationally articulate the essential teachings and practices of Sakyamuni Buddha and the Zen patriarchs. Dogen is constantly putting an emphasis on the practice of zazen and to put everything else aside. He says it simply and convincing without any extra terminology or philosophy. It reminds me of the simple sayings of Sakyamuni Buddha in the "Dhammapada" as opposed to the more complicated sutras. Didactic Dogen the Reformer
A Primer of Soto Zen: A Translation of Dogen's Shobogenzo ZuimonkiRead more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism - General    2. Buddhism - Zen    3. Eastern - Zen    4. Philosophy    5. Religion    6. Zen Buddhism