Best Classic Beginner’s Buddhist Books Ever?
By Waylon Lewis on Jul 24, 2008 inin blog, non-new agey spirituality |
For someone who’s active in the world, family-oriented, not-too-cynical & not-too-religious: Shambhala.
For someone who just likes to read great writing: How the Swans Came to the Lake or Crooked Cucumber.
For just about anyone anywhere anytime: Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind or Wisdom of No Escape.
For scholarly types: Cutting Through Spiritual Materialism.
*because I haven’t read much Dharma in the past five years, the list above is missing newer titles like Turning the Mind Into an Ally or excellent books by Sharon Salzberg, Robert Thurman, and a certain ’simple monk.’ Please feel free to comment with your suggestions for other’s edification.
PS: I read a page of this one daily, it’s so practical and helpful, until it fell apart.
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- Nov 23, 2008: from The Death of Buddhism ~ the first draft of an essay in the current issue of The Shambhala Sun, by elephant journal founding editor Waylon Lewis. | elephant journal
Shambhala was actually the book that started me down the Buddhist path, so great choice on that one… the others I haven’t read (yet).
I would also recommend Awakening the Buddha Within by Lama Surya Das (great explanation of the Noble Eightfold Path), and Phillip Moffitt’s Dancing With Life for a good intro to the Four Noble Truths and how to make them a part of one’s life.
Todd | Nov 5, 2008 | Reply
I really think What Makes You Not a Buddhist by Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse is a great beginner’s book. It simply explains the Four Seals (or Four Pillars) of Buddhism and basically tells you the difference between being a Buddhist and any other religion (any why Buddhism is often referred to as a philosophy instead of a religion)… Khyentse gives very clear, current examples that keep the reading light and entertaining. I highly recommend it to any one: old Buddhist/ new Buddhist/ non-Buddhist.
Hillary | Nov 5, 2008 | Reply
Two of my favorite books, The Snow Leopard by Peter Matthiessen and Sacred Hoops by Phil Jackson, tiptoe the subject of Zen Buddhism. They move beyond abstract allusions and delve into the authors’ practices and reflections–I find them to be excellent introductions to Buddhism, via the influence a sincere practice can have on one’s work in the world. Matthiessen is a world-class mountaineer and author, and Jackson makes his living coaching the creme of professional basketball. They prove you can experience Buddhism from more places than a meditation cushion.
marin | Jul 26, 2008 | Reply