Buddhism for Beginners
Jan 2001 · Shambhala Publications
4.4star
72 reviewsreport
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160
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About this ebook
This easy-to-understand introduction to Buddhism is “written for people wanting to understand basic Buddhist principles and how to integrate them into their lives” (H.H. the Dalai Lama)
This user’s guide to Buddhist basics takes the most commonly asked questions—beginning with “What is the essence of the Buddha’s teachings?”—and provides simple answers in plain English. Thubten Chodron’s responses to the questions that always seem to arise among people approaching Buddhism make this an exceptionally complete and accessible introduction—as well as a manual for living a more peaceful, mindful, and satisfying Life.
Buddhism for Beginners is an ideal first book on the subject for anyone, but it’s also a wonderful resource for seasoned students, since the question-and-answer format makes it easy to find just the topic you’re looking for, such as:
• What is the goal of the Buddhist path?
• What is karma?
• If all phenomena are empty, does that mean nothing exists?
• How can we deal with fear?
• How do I establish a regular meditation practice?
• What are the qualities I should look for in a teacher?
• What is Buddha-nature?
• Why can't we remember our past lives?
This user’s guide to Buddhist basics takes the most commonly asked questions—beginning with “What is the essence of the Buddha’s teachings?”—and provides simple answers in plain English. Thubten Chodron’s responses to the questions that always seem to arise among people approaching Buddhism make this an exceptionally complete and accessible introduction—as well as a manual for living a more peaceful, mindful, and satisfying Life.
Buddhism for Beginners is an ideal first book on the subject for anyone, but it’s also a wonderful resource for seasoned students, since the question-and-answer format makes it easy to find just the topic you’re looking for, such as:
• What is the goal of the Buddhist path?
• What is karma?
• If all phenomena are empty, does that mean nothing exists?
• How can we deal with fear?
• How do I establish a regular meditation practice?
• What are the qualities I should look for in a teacher?
• What is Buddha-nature?
• Why can't we remember our past lives?
Ratings and reviews
4.4
72 reviews
Jarosław Cimek
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February 19, 2017
Changed my perspective on things in life and the way I think about others. It also reminded me of long forgotten values I used to live by as a young boy. Although as long as the beginning of the book is logical, last few chapters seem to create more questions than answers in my mind. I recommend this book to someone who is looking for inner peace, but can also distance him/herself and make their own logical assumptions. Overall: A good and positive book.
6 people found this review helpful
Lauren Wolfeland
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January 16, 2015
Decent intro into the basics of what Buddhism is about and what is believed. As a total beginner, there were a few times while reading where I felt I should have had done prior knowledge but other than that, I enjoyed reading it and even felt calmer as I did so.
6 people found this review helpful
Emma Hannan
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March 4, 2016
Wonderful book that has been around for a while. I still refer to it after 15 years! Gentle and clear instruction on starting your practice.
4 people found this review helpful
About the author
Thubten Chodron, an American-born Tibetan Buddhist nun, travels worldwide, teaching and leading meditation retreats. Known for her clear and practical explanations of the Buddha's teachings, she is the author of Buddhism for Beginners; Working with Anger; How to Free Your Mind; Open Heart, Clear Mind; and Taming the Mind. She lives in Seattle, Washington.
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