Reviews (68)

WOW!!
This series of books really changed my Life!!I've actually applied what The Masters talk about and it really works!!

Not a weight loss or self help book...
I can see how western civilization readers may have a very difficult time accepting Life and Teachings as nothing more than black magic. It goes very deep. This is not a series of books that you sit down and read like the DaVinci code. Have you ever, as an example, opened up the King James version of the New Testament at your hotel room and tried to actually read it and take any of it in? Its tough. Not a page turner. Kind of boooorrring.No wonder we have sunday church to get us through it all. Life and Teachings has to be read in small bites people. Really. Yes, there is a message of sorts that comes out of it: Your religion is right. So is your neighbors and so is there neighbors. Yet it doesnt focus so much on "religion" as it does on the human potential. Thats where its at. And, thats where this read keeps going. This is not an easy book series to get through. Dont pick it up and expect "an answer" right away. You have to work a bit. Like a textbook rather than a Dan Brown Novel. It's laughable that people who read about "men that move mountains or part waters etc" can't comprehend it in anything other than magic. Life and Teachings is a thinker series. You read a bit. You stop. You think. Pick it up later and read some more. Not entertaining nor was it meant to be, but it strikes a lightning bolt at a few nerve endings you didnt know you had. And, no, you won't have to send any money to a special group or PO Box at the end. They dont have a Web site either. Baird Spalding is quite dead as are all the other scientists that went into thosemountains in the late 1800's that resulted in this book series. Read it. Don't worry. You won't grow hair on your palms and it won't corrupt your 21st century thinking on modern christianity.The message of Life and Teachings is; Put down your swords. Everyone's right about why we "are". Buddah, Jesus, Allah, Mohammmed, everyone of you....YOu all came down the same road from the same hilltop and this is an excellent tutorial on how that could be and examples of the human potential. Its nothing new. No revelations.Millions of years have gone by and its all still the same except on-going arguments.

jesus throwing thunderbolts?!
The first volume was interesting fiction. Hide a city in a mountain?! In later volumes jesus is throwing thunderbolts and killing the 'enemy' is not the jesus of the new testament. Instead buy Aquarian Gospel, Impersonal Life, Door of Everything and on recincarnation/heaven read testimony of light, but skip the introduction and notice the constant unfolding as in the movie ground hog day ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Comparative Religion    2. Eastern - General    3. Religion - World Religions    4. Mind, body, spirit: mysticism & self-awareness   

Editorial Review

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 Read more

Reviews (311)

Interesting introduction to the Dalai Lama's thoughts and beliefs
For anyone seeking a simple, introductory look into the fundamental beliefs and principles of the Dalai Lama, "The Art of Happiness" would be a great place to start. The book, authored by Howard C Cutler, MD, consists of excerpts and commentary from a series of documented conversations held between himself and the Dalai Lama.
one of the best self help book
everytime when I struggle with some emotional problem, this book always helps me to feel better and resolves my problem no matter which page I flip to.How amazing?It is a must-have book!

An interesting debate
A bit of a tough read, but worthwhile all the same! It takes the Dalai Lama's views and mixes them with explanations from an American psychiatrist (East meets West). The result is a useful tool kit for creating more happiness in your life, but beware, it requires some deep thought - and some very active mental changes in your normal patterns of behaviour. Happiness, it seems, requires a great deal of mental discipline! But remember, its the end purpose we are working towards, not the short term pleasure...so put those chocolates away, and read the book!
Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. Doctrines    4. Happiness    5. Personal Growth - Happiness    6. Psychology    7. Religion    8. Religious Life (Buddhism)    9. Religious aspects    10. Religious life    11. Religion / Buddhism   

Editorial Review

In 1927, Walter Evans-Wentz published his translation of an obscure Tibetan Nyingma text and called it the Read more

Reviews (78)

Life's Instruction Manual
People say life doen't come with an instruction manual, well this is it. Why you are here; what is important; how to deal with departure (death), your own and others; what happens if you spend your life sidetracked by the 'immediate but not important' issues. Written in a way that compels you to move to action, beyond simple intellectual curiousity. IF YOU DON'T WANT TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE, DO NOT READ THIS BOOK!

WAKE UP AND LIVE.
WOW..it has been so long since a book has moved this hardened soul,so for this masterpice i am very grateful.
Quiet Revolution Is Pure Good Fortune
Reading the currently posted 75 reviews of Sogyal Rinpoche's "The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying" is an education in itself. Devotion, gratitude, and open-minded reading in the majority of the reviews are juxtaposed with ignorance, mis-information, and a desire to make points in other reviews. Thus is our human condition. There is a Tibetan saying, "When luck comes to the mouth, the tongue pushes it out." Let us see "The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying" for what it is: pure good fortune.
Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. China    4. Death    5. Death, Grief, Bereavement    6. Doctrines    7. Philosophy    8. Religion - World Religions    9. Religious aspects    10. Religious life    11. Self-Help    12. Tibet    13. Personal religious testimony    14. Sacred texts    15. Self-Help / Death, Grief, Bereavement    16. Tibetan Buddhism   

Reviews (216)

Unbelievable but thought provoking
Unbelievable I say not as a skeptic, but as a true rational person. This same skepticism opens up other horizons in one's thinking - is this all true? Yogi Paramahamsa, the author, renders in this charming and lucid storytelling, facts he came across in his life - like his Master being able to 'know' that they will have guests arriving in the middle of the night; another yogi predicting the author's arrival and telling him of what he did miles away and many more such incidents.
A fantasy book not a spiritual guide
This book is full of stories, or perhaps lies might be a better word, because nowhere is it indicated that the stories are not the truth.
Best book for possibilities of Self Awareness and Spiritual insight
A great introduction to saints, saintly lifestyle, Yogic siddhis, miracles, Krishna Consciousness, etc is easily found in the engaging book of Sri Paramahansa Yogananda - Autobiography of a Yogi . It has given inspiration to do spiritual labour to me whenever I glance at its devotional pages.
Read more

Subjects:  1. 1893-1952    2. Biography    3. Biography / Autobiography    4. Eastern - General    5. Eastern - Gurus    6. India    7. Paramahansa,    8. Religion    9. Religious    10. Yogananda,    11. Yogis    12. Religions of Indic & Oriental origin   

Editorial Review

What should we think when on the one hand Buddhism tells us that life is suffering and on the other we are told to enjoy life's every moment? Loved around the world for his simple, straightforward explanations of Buddhism, Thich Nhat Hanh has finally turned his hand to the very core of Buddhism and conundrums such as this. In the traditional way, Thich Nhat Hanh takes up the core teachings one by one--the Four Noble Truths, the Noble Eightfold Path, the Twelve Links of Interdependent Co-Arising--but his approach is as fresh as a soft breeze through a plum orchard. For illustration, he dips into the vast stores of Buddhist literature right alongside contemporary anecdotes, pointing out subtleties that can get glossed over in other popular introductions. He also includes three short but key sutras, essential source teachings from which all Buddhism flows. Studying the basics of Buddhism under Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh is like learning basketball from Michael Jordan. Read more

Reviews (52)

Nice Read
This is, I believe, the second or third book I read by Thich Nhat Hanh."Living Buddha, Living Christ" sort of inspired me to pick this up.He gives the basics as to what this whole Buddhism thing is all about.His explanation is neither too simplified nor to technical for the "average reader".If you pick up one book on the teachings of Buddha, make it this one.

A Brillant Roadmap to Practicing
I've read a few books about the Buddha and Buddhism generally, but I am still very much a beginner.The other books I read covered the basics, but did not break them down in a way I, as a beginner and Westerner, could easily understand.I guess you could say those treatments were scholarly and intellectual to a fault.Hanh's simple, straightforward writing style, on the other hand, breaks down Buddhism's central concepts: the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.This simple style does not, however, lose any meaning.The result is much the opposite: I feel like this book has given me a good start in my practice.In fact, I'm willing to bet that it will give me much more each time I read it.

First Half of Book is Better than the Second
The first two parts of the book alone cause me to give the whole book 4 stars. Unlike some of the other reviewers, I liked Hanh's poetic, and even flowery, style of writing.. it's tender, flexible, like a person should be when considering Buddhism.
Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. Doctrines    4. Four Noble Truths    5. Religion    6. Religion - World Religions    7. Religion / Buddhism   

Editorial Review

If you'd like to read about meditation and then go back to your regular life, don't get this book. Henepola Gunaratana, a monk from Sri Lanka and venerated teacher of Buddhism, warns us that vipassana meditation is "meant to revolutionize the whole of your life experience." In one of the best nuts-and-bolts meditation manuals, he lays out the fundamentals of basic Buddhist meditation, the how, what, where, when, and why, including common problems and how to deal with them. His 52 years as a Buddhist monk make Read more

Reviews (59)

Just what it says
This is the next best thing to a meditation teacher. The book is a manual and trouble shooting guide to shamatha/vipassana meditation.A simple and powerful technique which has gradually and profoundly changed my life for the better.If you do not have access to a meditation instructor, or don't want to, get this simple and clear instruction manual.

A Life-Changing Book that you will read over and over and give to anyone you care about
I've read this book along with his subsequent book, Eight Mindful Steps to Happiness, multiple times and consult parts of both on regularly.
Great 1st Meditation Book
I loved this book after reading great reviews of it. I'd just like to add that it's a great one for giving to friends who are interested in learning about meditation but have no idea where to begin. I gave a copy of this away after a couple I knew both responded positively to it after reading the first few chapters. It's the first book I want to read again to get back to having a daily practice. Meditation is work, but this book addresses the hurdles and pitfalls well and will help you get the ball rolling. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. Meditation    4. Religion    5. Religion - Church History    6. Vipasyana (Buddhism)    7. Vipaâsyanåa (Buddhism)    8. Body, Mind & Spirit / Meditation    9. Mind, Body, Spirit   

Editorial Review

Scholars say that the original Read more

Reviews (55)

The Beauty of Tao
This beautiful book introduced me to Tao.As a child, my father would let me page through it just to look at the gorgeous and simple photography.It wasn't until many years later that I actually began to read and appreciate the Tao Te Ching for the writing and significance.This subtle philosophy can be difficult to comprehend, but reading the text and performing your own analysis before delving into interpretations is a good beginning.
An excellent translation
One of the best, most readable interpretations of Tao Te Ching I have come across over the years. The supporting illustrations are bold yet do not take away from the text.
Hands Down - Best Interpretation
I've read over 20 interpretations of the Dao, and this is easily the clearest. The wording is very understandable for the Western mind.
Read more

Subjects:  1. Eastern - General    2. General    3. Philosophy    4. Religion    5. Taoism    6. Religion / Taoism   

Editorial Review

Prince Arjuna faced a dilemma that many face sooner or later--whether to take action that is necessary yet morally ambiguous. The difference is that Arjuna's action was to wage war against his own family. With the armies arrayed, Arjuna loses his nerve. Krishna, his charioteer and incarnation of divine consciousness, begins to teach him the nature of God and of himself, that Arjuna can attain liberation through union with God, and that there are several available paths. And so the most famous and revered of all Hindu Scriptures goes on to teach the paths of knowledge, devotion, action, and meditation, becoming the seed for all the Hindu systems of philosophy and religion that followed. For all of its profundity, Eknath Easwaran manages to translate the Read more

Reviews (29)

Words of Khrisna
I am going to buy this book and read it. I am going to compare it to the New Testament writings. I will compare the words of Khrisna with the words ofChrist. Which words have the path of salvation in them and which words are a lie? This question is of all others the most important.
A scholarly yet readable translation makes BG relevant today
No wonder this is the best-selling translation of this Indian classic work! Easwaran gives a full introduction, putting the Gita into the context of the literature and traditions of the time, and showing how it relates to modern philosophy. Sanskrit concepts that are quite difficult to translate into English are explained carefully, as is the relationship with Yoga. The translation itself is vivid and convincing, and the book is cleverly divided, with each chapter preceded by a clear explanation of the difficult concepts to come in that chapter.

Required For Any Library of Eastern Theology!
This slim volume in my opinion, should be, along with Easwaran's translation of the Upanishads and Dhammapada, on the shelf of every student of Eastern Wisdom. The translation is beautiful, somewhere between prose and poetry, and the introduction, and chapter openings are especially helpful to Westerners unfamiliar with Hinduism, and the non-physical schools of Yoga. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Hinduism    2. Religion    3. Religion - World Religions    4. Mind, Body, Spirit   

Reviews (55)

Excellent book
This is a great book for someone interested in developing an "intimate partnership".Seeing the truth is difficult in close relationships, as we often deny the things we see in the name of "love".Dr. Kasl encourages us to seek the truth in our relationships, and in that way they continue to mature (or fade away naturally with as little pain as possible).
If the Buddha Dated
Excellent book about becoming ready to give and receive love.Do not have to be buddhist

Wonderful alternative guide to dating in this day and age.
This book was recommended to me by a good friend, and I'm very glad that I heeded her advice. This brilliant little guide offers the reader practical strategies on how to address dating in a positive, loving and undefensive manner. The Buddha's approach truly doesn't require us to compromise the self by trying too hard to manipulate, impress or change who we are just to attract who we want - The Buddha only wants us to be ourselves, nothing more, nothing less. I especially want to underscore the chapter about identifying "bottom lines" - these are behaviors that you just can't accept from people you date or boundaries that guide you in the dating process so as not to keep on repeating the same mistakes over and over again. Bravo! This book + Harville Hendrix's Keeping the Love You Find give the single person an effective combo that would certainly improve their dating skills, preferences and ultimately, their future relationships! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. Compassion    4. Family & Relationships    5. Family/Marriage    6. Interpersonal Relations    7. Love    8. Love & Romance    9. Love / Sex / Marriage    10. Man-woman relationships    11. Religious aspects    12. Family & Relationships / Love & Romance   

Reviews (6)

Excellent and essential
This is a required text for just about every introductory course on Hinduism. Essential reading for anyone wishing to understand how Hindus worship and see the divine.

Solid introduction to the concept of Hindu iconography and related ritual experience
Diana Eck is a wonderful scholar who has written several great books on Hinduism. Darsan (or "darshan," if you're transliterating it simply for an English-speaking audience) is a wonderfully simple introduction to Hindu iconography and the related ritual experience, a subject that is overwhelmingly broad and often unwieldy.
Eck sees it clearly
Diana Eck has done an excellent job of sifting through the vast amount of material on Hindu imagery in India and presenting an intelligently distilled interpretation. An excellent read on a very difficult subject. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Asia - General    2. Eastern - General    3. Hinduism    4. Religion    5. Religion - Church History    6. Anthropology    7. Cultural studies    8. India    9. Religion / General   

Editorial Review

In undertaking a spiritual life, we must make certain that our path is connected with our heart, according to author and Buddhist monk Jack Kornfield. Since 1974 (long before it gained popularity in the 1990s), Kornfield has been teaching westerners how to integrate Eastern teaching into their daily lives. Through generous storytelling and unmitigated warmth, Kornfield offers this excellent guidebook on living with attentiveness, meditation, and full-tilt compassion.Read more

Reviews (40)

A book with heart!!!!!
This is an excellent and sensitively written book by a former Buddhist monk and clinical psychologist. Jack Kornfield uses stories and lyrical language to weave a portrait of an authentic spiritual life characterized by insight, compassion and wisdom. He makes Buddhism accessible to modern people and shows us how it is relevant to modern life. This is no small task and Kornfield pulls it off brilliantly, with warmth and an entertaining style. I highly recommend this book for anyone who is looking for deeper meaning in their lives whatever their specific beliefs. It is also an important book that connects Western psychological thought to Eastern worldviews.
one of the best books I have ever read
I highly recommend this book.It has changed the way I look at life and spirituality.Nearly every line in the book is filled with profound meaning.Additonally, the style is clear and the ideas accessible for anyone who is truly interested in spiritual fulfillment.I am at greater peace with the world since having read this book.

A delightfully clear, engaging guide for beginning meditators
Jack Kornfield is a humble and humorous guide when it comes to incorporating eastern practices into one's prayer and/or contemplative life. He is down to earth, emminently practical, and tremendously encouraging. A strong advocate of developing a disciplined practice of meditation, Kornfield has a very nice way of communicating this necessity without scaring the novice off. He has a great reserve of wonderful stories and anecdotes which make his suggestions spring to life. I've been a college chaplain for 20 years, reading and recommending books on spirituality for all of those. Kornfield is a exceptionally fine teacher and I consider this book his best. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. Meditations    4. Philosophy    5. Religion    6. Religion - World Religions    7. Spiritual life    8. Spirituality - General    9. Body, Mind & Spirit / New Age   

Reviews (45)

Close to conversion
I have been reading this a little at a time for about the past couple months.Very good, very wonderful ideas.Osho is a very inspirational person, who teaches in a clear, concise way so that anyone may understand.He is a truly spiritual and beautiful person.

Change
This world is in need of a deep change, and through tantra, we can all unite and live as we are ..naturally.The first few chapters of this book changed my life in a matter of days (and I've bareley tried any of the tecniques).Through it i realized that there is no such thing as something being bad (bad energy, thoughts, actions).They just are holy, something from god, that you soudln't deny but embrace as your own, and through it you will accept yourself and all as the all powerful and all mighty, no matter what society may say about what is right or wrong.I have never read a book that has changed me so much, and has helped me to understand my life.

A unique view
Osho has a unique view on things, a type of view you won't likely find somewhere else, so for this reason alone it is good to study some of his work.
Read more

Subjects:  1. Criticism, interpretation, etc    2. Eastern - General    3. Hinduism    4. Meditation    5. Mind & Body    6. New Age    7. Religion    8. Religion - World Religions    9. Spiritual life    10. Tantras    11. Tantras.    12. Tantrism    13. Vigyan Bhairav    14. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    15. Popular psychology    16. Religion / Spirituality   

Reviews (24)

A Great Introduction to Buddhist Thought and Meditation!
This book and Sakyong Mipham's more recent "Ruling Your World," are permanent fixtures in my library.Sometimes Buddhist writings can be difficult to understand or relate to, but this author has a Western background and is able to communicate ideas in ways that are easy to identify with for people without a background in Buddhist thought.Our culture and the media encourage "monkey mind," and it's hard to gain control of inner thought processes in a world that constantly communicates "Buy More, Do More, Be More."This book offers a means of calming the internal turmoil and developing your mind to reach its potential.
Good book-very helpful
This book has been helpful for dealing with anxiety/depression.I'm not much into just meditating or even following Buddhist thinking, however, there is value in what I've learned from this book -- disciplining the mind and learning to keep the mind "present".This has helped me from worrying "too far ahead" or losing perspective of life by helping strengthen my mind.I highly recommend this book along with practicing some form of meditation if you struggle with anxiety or negative/worrying thoughts.

Best introduction to meditation
I think what sets this book apart from others of its kind is the unmatched clarity and simplicity of the language. The unique situation here is that Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche, an accomplished and very learned Tibetan Buddhist teacher, grew up in the West and so speaks our language like a native. Because of this, he is able to speak to us in a way that most other equally accomplished Tibetan lamas are unable to. It's important to emphasize that meditation is best learned and practiced under the guidance of a living human being who has some experience with it - a book alone will not suffice. But, having said that, this book is definitely a good companion to have when beginning your journey. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Asian And Oriental Religions    2. Buddhism - General    3. Meditation    4. Psychology    5. Psychotherapy - Counseling    6. Religion - World Religions    7. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    8. Philosophy / Mind & Body    9. Popular psychology    10. Self-Help & Practical Interests   

Reviews (3)

Ingaging
The CD in the back of this book is worth the cost.The graphics are ingaging and imaginative.The poems of Rumi are inspiring as always and will awaken your spirit.

New Rumi Book
This is a beautifully illustrated sequel to the Illuminated Rumi by Coleman Barks and Michael Green. Included is a CD by the Illumination Band which interprets the poems musically in American roots style(bluegrass, blues)which sounds strange but works. Not the greatest recording, but the point gets across. There's a longing in those American art forms which somehow is a good fit for the poetry. There has been criticism about these non-literal translations of Rumi's words but I think the point of the poems comes across nicely. There are certainly plenty of copies of Nicholson or Arberry out there if someone needs a more literal version, and they can decide for themselves. One Song is definitely recommended.
Beautiful and inspiring!
Continuing in the tradition of the book he co-authored with Coleman Barks, The Illuminated Rumi, Michael Green has created a volume even more breath-taking than the first. The poetry of Rumi has touched North Americans because its language and references feel modern, relevant, humorous and inspiring.The spirituality contained in both images and words in this book celebrates life, while it also reminds us that we can become more than a "common denominator."We can be both ordinary and extraordinary.The images alone will give extended experiences of insight, wisdom, guidance, serenity, and hope.This is a book to return to over and over again. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Arabic Poetry    2. Eastern - General    3. Middle Eastern    4. Poetry    5. Religion - World Religions    6. Arabic    7. Works by individual poets: classical, early & medieval   

Reviews (9)

Wonderful
This is a wonderful book. Great introduction, with great answers for common questions. You should probably read 'A Buddhism Primer - An Introduction to Buddhism' as well for a little more in depth but complimentary book to this one.

Basic but informative Buddhist Q&A book
This book grew out of a smaller work entitled "I Wonder Why;" it "is not designed to be a comprehensive introduction to Buddhism, but to clarify points, provide Buddhist perspectives on modern issues, and stimulate the curiosity and questioning minds of the readers" (p. 10).The author makes some profound statements about questions: p. 7: "In the beginning one should remain skeptical and rely on questioning and checking the teachings based on one's understanding" and p. 9: "I believe that spiritual practice is more about holding questions than finding answers.Seeking one correct answer often comes from a wish to make life-which is basically fluid-into something certain and fixed."The latter applies directly to Buddhism itself: p. 77-8: "As the Buddha's teachings spread from one country to another, they adapted to the culture and mentality of the people in each place without changing the essential meaning...The external forms and ways of doing things are not the Dharma."Thus, she differentiates between true practitioners and p. 118: "joss stick Buddhists."Needless to say, this book is for people truly interested in or at least honestly curious about Buddhism.The author corrects many incorrect views: p. 42: "There is nothing inherently wrong with the world; the real problem lies in our disturbing attitudes" and p. 63: to set reachable short-term goals as well as long-term resolve when purifying negative traits and actions.In addition to considerable information on helping the dying, a mantra to say when about to eat meat (p. 109: "Om Ahbirakay tsara hung" said 7 times & pray for animal to have fortunate rebirth), types of Buddhist nuns and robes, and especially children (p. 132: "When children see an adult sitting peacefully, they get the idea that they can as well" and p. 134: "Love is more important to children than material possessions.Choosing to earn more money at the expense of good family relations may mean later having to spend that extra income on therapy and counseling for both parents and children!").Her words are worth considerable thought though they are quite basic and virtually nonsectarian.It's worth your time now since: p. 41: "No one dies thinking, `I should have worked more overtime.'"

Great Introduction to Buddhism
Great Introduction to BuddhismRead more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. Doctrines    4. Religion    5. Religion - World Religions   

Editorial Review

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. Read more

Reviews (113)

Very little simplicity here.....
This book contains SOME very good information. Overall, I am glad to have purchased it for some of the information it contained. However, the author repeats himself constantly. Sometimes he changes the wording and sometimes he doesn't bother, he just repeats himself. If I could count the number of times he claims that things don't exist, and that every perceived thing is a concept, I'd guess it to be near one hundred.
A very narrow view but a nice simple read
This book portrays Buddhism as this really simple philosophy of simply living in the moment and throws away the rest. It is too simplistic to throw away all those sutras that other forms of Buddhism and simply state Zen is the only way. It's only one very narrow way. But I did enjoy it as a nice easy little read when you are on the train in the morning to get your mind thinking in a positive mode for the day. Its more of a new age self help book, but for the money it's fine!

Patience . . .
I'm glad I have other sources re Zen, because if it were only this book I checked, it would be history.The editorial review at the beginning said:"You might want to digest this book slowly, a few pages at a time."Otherwise, you may want to toss the book across the room.
Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. Doctrines    4. Eastern - General    5. Eastern - Zen    6. Philosophy    7. Religion - World Religions    8. Philosophy / Eastern   

Editorial Review

So many books have been written about the meditation side of Zen and the everyday, chop wood/carry water side of Zen. But few books have approached Zen the way that most Japanese actually do--through ritualized arts of discipline and beauty--and perhaps that is why Eugen Herrigel's Read more

Reviews (53)

Awonderful account of Herrigel's spiritual journey/5 stars
As a Zen Buddhist--unlike a few of the reviewers who
rich catalyst for our life journey
masterpiece. even the way it is written brings the reader on a journey so that he himself can learn and experience what the author intends to convey. not by explicitly writing what he wants the reader to 'learn', but rather by guiding the reader through a path- that is the only way to truly gain.

hitting the bull's-eye blindfolded
There is the Zen of no mind in which you eat when hungry, rest when tired, and stop when finished.There is also the Zen known through the ritualized arts of discipline and beauty such as archery, swordsmanship, brush-and-ink, the tea ceremony, or flower arranging. This book is Herrigel's story of striking the target bull's-eye blindfolded. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Archery    2. Archery And Target Shooting    3. Eastern - General    4. Eastern - Zen    5. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    6. Philosophy    7. Zen Buddhism    8. Religion / Eastern   

Reviews (7)

Instrumental for ANYONE seeking to strengthen their skills in compassion
Regardless of your religious orientation, the mental practice of cultivating fearlessness and compassion is to your benefit. Both traits are in short supply in the world but much in demand for individual peace of mind. Take a few baby steps and watch yourself acquire a sense of inner peace. You need not become a Buddhist but have a clear mind is a must in a harried world. Pema Chodron was introduced to me by a practising Buddhist who was also a television broadcaster when I was in the grips of taking something way too personally. Chodron once called pain one of the greatest spiritual teachers and she was right on. My experience demanded compassion towards a situation that had my ego in over-drive. She also said that "If we learn to open our hearts, anyone, including the people who drive us crazy, can be our teacher".
Comfortable with Uncertainty: 108 Teachings on Cultivating Fearlessness and Compassion
I think this is a great book with many good strategies to use to help you live your life in a more mature and fulfilling way.The emphasis is on living fully in the moment and not letting yourself be caught up in the kind of thinking that distracts and causes anxiety. It recommends ways to stop using so many of the avoidance techniques that so many of us employ to keep from dealing with painful thoughts and situations. This book contains step-by-step instructions on how to meditate for insight and its calming and slowing effects.

Comfortable With UnCertainty
A beautiful book for Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike.Pema Chodron's teachings are clear and concise.This book is a compilation of her teachings taken in short sections, so it can be read cover to cover or the teachings taken individually as one wishes, one day at a time, or randomly. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Asian And Oriental Religions    2. Buddhism    3. Buddhism - General    4. Buddhism - Rituals & Practice    5. Doctrines    6. Meditation    7. Personal Growth - General    8. Religion    9. Religion - Inspirational/Spirituality    10. Spiritual    11. Spiritual life    12. Religion / Buddhism