What the Buddha Taught: Revised and Expanded Edition with Texts from Suttas and Dhammapada

What the Buddha Taught: Revised and Expanded Edition with Texts from Suttas and Dhammapada
Average customer rating:

An Effective Introduction

Simply the best at the basics

A somewhat biased but useful introduction

Don't worry be joyous!

This is Thee best intro to Buddhism book out there!

What the Buddha Taught: Revised and Expanded Edition with Texts from Suttas and Dhammapada
Walpola Rahula
Manufacturer: Grove Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Amazon.com

Beneath the enormous umbrella of Buddhism, there is a diverse galaxy of customs and beliefs, but there is also a kernel of truth that every sect holds dear. Rahula Walpola, scholar and monk, discovers this foundation of Buddhism for us first through straightforward explication, never skipping over a point that has yet to be substantiated, then through translations from key scriptures. Logical and focused, these are the essentials of Buddhism; know them first, then move comfortably on to other Buddhist works.

Book Description

A classic introductory book to Buddhism, What the Buddha Taught contains a selection of illustrative texts from the original Pali texts, including the Suttas and the Dhammapada. The author, himself a Buddhist monk and scholar, removes a number of common misconceptions about Buddhism, and provides a comprehensive, compact, lucid, and faithful account of the Buddha’s teachings that persistently enjoys great popularity in colleges, universities, and theological schools both here and abroad. “For years," says the Journal of the Buddhist Society, "the newcomer to Buddhism has lacked a simple and reliable introduction to the complexities of the subject. Dr. Rahula’s What the Buddha Taught fills the need as only could be done by one having a firm grasp of the vast material to be sifted. It is a model of what a book should be that is addressed first of all to ‘the educated and intelligent reader.' Authoritative and clear, logical and sober, this study is as comprehensive as it is masterly."

Customer Reviews:

An Effective Introduction.......2007-07-22

"What the Buddha Taught" by Walpola Rahula is an effective introduction to Buddhist thought, dealing primarily with the Four Noble Truths, and the Eight-Fold path of Buddhism. The text focuses mostly on the doctrine, and not on the life of Buddha, or the various types of Buddhism that exist. Some excerpts of classical Buddhist texts also accompany the work. Rahula offers a clear, concise introduction to Buddhist thought that should be illuminating for the introductory reader or student.

Simply the best at the basics.......2007-07-06

An excellent primer on the basic principles the buddha taught. I have bought this book several times as gifts for those inclinded to the dhamma and so interested. Even though I have the translations on the sutta pitaka, compendiums of abhidhamma and numerous other books focused on the therevada tradition, this is the book that I find I go back to repeatedly for inspiration and clarification of basic principles.

A somewhat biased but useful introduction.......2007-06-13

No one really knows exactly what the Buddha taught because of course he wrote nothing down. We have the report of his followers and of their followers and so on. It doesn't take much insight to realize that over the years the doctrines will take on the coloring of those who have memorized them and are passing them down. Rahula's great confidence that he knows for sure what the Buddha taught is probably the most disconcerting aspect of this otherwise laudable introduction to Buddhist thought.

Consequently I am not enamored of didactic arguments about what the Buddha taught and what he didn't teach except as such ideas relate to the overall world picture that is Buddhism. I take Zen Buddhism as my guide here since it is a reaction to all the endless arguments about what the Buddha taught and did not teach and especially about what he meant. The only way to settle these arguments for yourself is to study Buddhism and see if the doctrines in question fit the overall conception.

Anatta or no-soul or no-self is perhaps the most contentious Buddhist doctrine of all. It is also one of the most difficult. I think Rahula does a good job of explaining what is at issue, but I suspect that even his one chapter on the subject in this book is not really understood by most readers. The problem goes back to the Vedas and the idea of the Atman. The Buddha understood the idea of the Atman as part of Brahman, but he subtlety changed the understanding. What he did was show that the idea of the self or the soul can be understood on two levels. On one level there is the self as experienced by people on a day-to-day, naturalistic basis. This is what in yoga is considered the ego-I or the self with a small "s." Then there is the eternal Self, the Atman which is to Ultimate Reality as a drop of water falling off the lotus leaf is to the ocean of Brahman.

The Illustrious One denied the existence of the first self as he denied all of the phenomena world as impermanent and every changing. It's not that trees and people and selves do not exist. The point is they do not exist in the way we think they exist. Our real identify is not as separate from the rest of the world, but as part of that world. We and all we see are one. All is in flux and so are we.

On the eternal soul that is unchanging (the Atman), the Buddha was silent. We know he was silent because the whole of the Buddhist teaching requires that he be silent on all matters that do not lead to enlightenment. Whether there is a God or whether there is a heavenly abode on the other side of the universe were not matters the Buddha was interested in, because for him it was more than enough to get to a plan and a methodology to deal with the unsatisfactoriness of the world.

As time passed and countless monks and others have grappled with the Buddha's teachings it has gradually been realized that underlying the so-called denial of the self is the idea that what is really at issue is identification with the self. In everybody this identification is the same. This identification is what is delusive and is what is reincarnated. This identification is powerful. It comes from the evolutionary mechanism and serves to make us protective of our physical body and to fear death.

I know personally that Rahula is not the best authority on Buddhism from reading the chapter on meditation. It is clear to me that Rahula's meditative practice was haphazard at best. This can be seen from two observations. Rahula writes, "It is for this 'meditation' only ["Awareness of in-and-out breathing" meditation] that a particular and definite posture is prescribed in the text. For other forms of meditation...you may sit, stand, walk, or lie down..." He goes on to say that "It is very necessary for this exercise that the meditator should sit erect, but not stiff; his hands placed comfortably on his lap." (p. 69)

I think it can be said that when somebody writes "very necessary" we can conclude that he is lost. You CAN meditate on your breath lying down. The problem with any kind of lying down meditation is that (1) the quality of the meditation differs (except perhaps for very advanced meditators) because the bodily stance signals to the mind a different quality of awareness; (2) you're more likely to fall asleep lying down; and (3) a dreamlike meditation perhaps with visuals comes more readily when lying down.

Rahula recommends on the following page that you try to meditate for five or ten minutes. Trust me, five or ten minutes will not get it done. Again except for the unusually gifted, it takes many, many hours to train ourselves to meditate, and instead of five or ten minutes, one should aim at an hour or more. For most people the meditative mood cannot be entered into for at least twenty or thirty minutes because it takes that much time for the mind to realize that things are secure enough and that the intention really is to meditate.

Rahula also writes that "As long as you are conscious of yourself you can never concentrate on anything." (p. 70) Actually if you are truly conscious of yourself (even beyond your breathing) you are THERE. This is not the same thing as being self-conscious.

Many Buddhist ideas, like the ideas of all religions can be understood on two levels, one, the literal denotative level, and two, the symbolic or metaphorical level. Karma, reincarnation, the "gods" that the Buddha sometimes referred to, etc. are best understood on the symbolic level. Rahula fails to make this distinction.

Don't worry be joyous!.......2007-06-06

This book is fanastic - I too hae given loads of copies way to friends. It saved me from several years of cynical gloom and nihilism brough about by studying western philosophy and that dualist suff that has ruined our lives for so long - mind and body are not two - and there is no eternal indivisible self - so don't worry be happy and joyous!

This is Thee best intro to Buddhism book out there!.......2007-04-20

In all my years and studies of the Dhamma I've never found a better intro to Buddhism than Walpola Rahula's. I've recommended and given away many copies to friends who wanted to know just what it are we Buddhists believe because this is the one book I won't have to make any excuses for or add any extra explanations to.

Average customer rating:

very easy reading
DHARMA PADA
The First Book to Read on Buddhism
Spiritual
An enlightened way to human fulfilment

The Dhammapada
Eknath Easwaran
Manufacturer: Nilgiri Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0915132370

Amazon.com

According to Eknath Easwaran, if all of the Buddhist sutras had been lost except the Dhammapada, it alone would be enough for readers to understand and appreciate the wisdom of the Buddha. Easwaran's version of the Dhammapada goes a long way toward proving this. In a lengthy introduction, Easwaran summarizes the life of the Buddha and the main tenets of his thought, including key concepts such as dharma, karma, and nirvana. The language of the Dhammapada is as lucid and flowing as the Psalms or the Sermon on the Mount, and this is why it is one of the most loved and remembered of all Buddhist sutras. Its subject matter, succinctly, is about training the mind, which leads to kind thoughts and deeds, which bring peace and freedom from suffering. If you are interested in reading one of the gems of Buddhist literature, this is a good place to start; and if you are looking for a great version of this beloved scripture, you can't do better. Like all great world scripture, the verses here reward rereading and reflection, prompting you to "strive for wisdom always." --Brian Bruya

Book Description

The Dhammapada is a collection of the Buddha's teachings stamped with the power and practicality of one of the world's most appealing spiritual figures. Eknath Easwaran's introduction describes the Buddha's life, background, and teachings, including a particularly penetrating account of the Buddha's "four stages of meditation." Chapter introductions by Steve Ruppenthal provide background from relevant Buddhist doctrine. 208 pages.

Customer Reviews:

very easy reading.......2007-09-02

the book presents the dhammapada, a book text of the Buddha's words for those who don't know, in an easy to read and understandable way. each chapter is headed by a introduction that explains the meaning of the chapter and clarifies some of the content. this is a must read for any Buddhist, non Buddhist looking for wisdom, or for anyone with any interest in the subject.

DHARMA PADA.......2007-07-20

THE TROUBLED TIMES WE LIVE IN, IF MAJORITY OF PEOPLE FOLLOW DHARMA PADA AS TAUGHT BY BUDDHA AND WELL TRANSLATED BY ESWARAN, LOT OF PROBLEMS AND UNNECESSARY SUFFERING WILL BE GONE.

The First Book to Read on Buddhism.......2007-06-11

The Dhammapada is the basic teachings of Buddha that have been recorded from his time. If you want to learn anything from Buddhism, you must read this first. There are so many different schools of Buddhism now, but they all build off of this teaching. This book is not much of a philosophical work, because Buddha was not much of a philosopher. He did not want to waste his time teaching what cannot be taught through words. He offers the path that must be taken in order to know everything. If you want some Buddhist philosophy, read books on the different schools, like Mahayana Buddhism. This book's purpose, however, is to lead you to enlightenment and nirvana.

Eknath Easwaran has made the Dhammapada so clear. He has an introduction to each writing, but the book is pretty short, so I recommend reading the book all the way through. If he did not have his introductions and commentaries, it would be a lot harder to understand.

What I like so much about Buddha's original teaching is that it does not have much of a doctrine. His teachings are meant for everyone. His truth can be seen in all other religions, so his teachings are completely accessible. He has the Four Noble Truths, and the fourth truth leads to his Noble Eightfold path. This book can be used as a basic path, or can serve as a great introduction to Buddhism overall.

Spiritual.......2007-05-26

If you haven't read The Dhammapada yet, buy it now.......it's amazing. Also, a great gift for any of your spiritual friends.

An enlightened way to human fulfilment.......2007-01-11

Of course my comment applies to the book as a whole, and definitely not to the text of the Dhammapada itself, which is revered as a major text in Buddhist scriptures, to the point of having been added to the "Basket of sutras".
The only thing I would venture to say about it is that this modern translation by Eknath Easwaran is smooth and elegant. It gives the feeling that it may well reflect the wisdom of the original text, which unfortunately few people are able to appreciate directly in Pali.
The extensive introduction by the translator gives an interesting insight into the core teachings of the Buddha, together with some insights on his life. It implicitly points out the fact that the Eightfold Path can be followed regardless of one's religious or non-religious membership. It clearly conveys the universal scope of the Dhammapada which opens a way of perfection that anyone can follow.
It also gives brief comments on some major considerations in Buddhist thinking, such as the conviction that nothing happens by chance, not because events are predestined, but because everything is connected by cause and effect.
It also refers to the amazing compatibility between Buddhist thinking and the most recent discoveries of scientific research. This is a comforting factor for the Buddhist effort to see life and the world as they really are; not taking anything for granted, but submitting every conviction to the challenge of the quality of its results.
The third part embedded in the book is made up of chapter introductions written by the very knowledgeable Stephen Ruppenthal. They enable the reader to get the best out of the text itself, there again pointing out some of the basic thoughts. For instance the idea that joy is not a sensation linked to pleasure and pain, but an internal state, a level of consciousness with no necessary connection to external conditions.
There is also the recommendation to give up anger, not by suppressing it, but by redirecting its power for the achievement of spiritual growth. Spiritual growth which can be blocked, not necessarily by pleasurable things and experiences, but by selfish attachment to them.
All in all, this book should impulse the reader on the way to human fulfilment by living a physically and spiritually healthy life in the service of all.

Average customer rating:

A wonderful, life changing book
The Dhammapada
Definitely one for the collection!
Clear, Concise, Lovingly Translated
The Dhammapada by Ananda Maitreya, Rose Kramer

The Dhammapada

Manufacturer: Parallax Press
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The Dhammapada: A New Translation of the Buddhist Classic with Annotations

ASIN: 0938077872

Book Description

The Dhammapada is often considered the most representative example of the Buddha's teachings. A key to the fundamentals of early Buddhist philosophy, it has been translated into more languages than any other Buddhist text.

Customer Reviews:

A wonderful, life changing book.......2007-07-25

A great little book full of everything that I feel is important and essential to buddhists whether those new to the religion or those of long standing

The Dhammapada.......2005-08-19

This translation of The Buddha's words is a must for any student of Buddhism.

Definitely one for the collection!.......2002-12-27

I have been reading several translations of the Dhammapada recently and came across this one and found it offers some things that the others do not.

Since the original written form of the Dhammapada is in Pali, others have needed to take the time to translate it for us in the West. As in any translation, there are many words that offer multiple meanings. One person may interpret `dhukka' as `suffering', another may choose `stress', and yet another may decide `unsatisfactoriness'. As you can see, each can then be interpreted in our mind as one thing or another. By having several translations available I have been able to derive a deeper understanding.

To begin with, the size makes this translation ideal for carrying in a shirt pocket or for having on hand in the car for a little Dhamma between red lights. Another feature I enjoy is this translation is from a monk. The editor is a layperson however, after her edits she spoke with the monk and explained why she made certain changes, (to make specific words more accessible to us in the West) and he agreed with the new updates. The monastic community obviously spends more time than most laypersons studying the Pali Canon so their translations, I have found, tend to be quite meaningful. Overall, the translations offered here are meaningful and poetic.

Drawbacks? The introduction is a little shorter than other offerings and there are only a limited amount of notes. There is an interesting background to how the Dhammapada fits within the Pali Canon and the use of notes is helpful in understanding certain meanings, etc. Since the size would have been affected I'm sure this may have been one of the reasons they were not included. Again, by reading several translations you will be rewarded.

In addition to this translation I have found Cleary's translation helpful, however the notes and his comments were not. (see my review of his translation) I have also found Thanissaro Bhikkhu's translation very helpful, although it is offered as dana and as such is not available for sale. Recently I obtained S. Radhakrishnan's translation, which offers the original Pali text along with his translation, but I have not yet been able to thoroughly read through it to offer any meaningful review.

Whether you have read other versions, or if this is your very first exposure to the Dhammapada, I think you will be pleased with this translation.

Clear, Concise, Lovingly Translated.......2002-01-16

This recent translation of this core text of Buddhism is wonderfully clear and concise. The translation seems both careful and modern. The translators avoid the common pitfall of attempting a "scriptural" diction or tone. I was very impressed with the clarity of this slender volume. Buy it. Read it. You won't be able to stop. It is THAT good.

The Dhammapada by Ananda Maitreya, Rose Kramer.......2001-12-21

The best, unquestionably, as compared to the Ram Dass and John Ross Carter versions. The impact of original translation without fancy revision is as important as each drop which fills our cup. This is the one translation that uses word for word and that's what makes it the best. Perhaps I should be compensated for this review, ha, ha. Truly, this is the one to read if there's any question. And if a reader thinks this version is dry, it's because he is not yet at the level to understand truth and should stick to fiction. I can't emphasize the importance of original translation as without, the result is loss in important teachings, however subtle. What could be worse than a half truth?

Buddhist Legends: Translated from the Original Pali Text of the Dhammapada Commentary (Harvard Oriental)

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Buddhist Legends: Translated from the Original Pali Text of the Dhammapada Commentary (Harvard Oriental)

Manufacturer: Wisdom Publications (MA)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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The Dhammapada: A New Translation of the Buddhist Classic with Annotations

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Fine translation
Best Translation Yet
Buddha's Holy Book
Wonderful wisdom for the world!
Beautiful, poetic, moving translation -- a daily companion

The Dhammapada: A New Translation of the Buddhist Classic with Annotations
Gil Fronsdal
Manufacturer: Shambhala
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1590302117
Release Date: 2005-08-09

Book Description

The Dhammapada is the most widely read Buddhist scripture in existence, enjoyed by both Buddhists and non-Buddhists. This classic text of teaching verses from the earliest period of Buddhism in India conveys the philosophical and practical foundations of the Buddhist tradition. The text presents two distinct goals for leading a spiritual life: the first is attaining happiness in this life (or in future lives); the second goal is the achievement of spiritual liberation, freedom, absolute peace. Many of the key themes of the verses are presented in dichotomies or pairs, for example, grief and suffering versus joy; developing the mind instead of being negligent about one's mental attitude and conduct; virtuous action versus misconduct; and being truthful versus being deceitful. The purpose of these contrasts is, very simply, to describe the difference between what leads to desirable outcomes and what does not.

For centuries, this text has been studied in its original Pali, the canonical language of Buddhism in Southeast Asia. This fresh new translation from Insight Mediation teacher and Pail translator Gil Fronsdal is both highly readable and scholarly authoritative. With extensive explanatory notes, this edition combines a rigorous attention to detail in bringing forth the original text with the translator's personal knowledge of the Buddhist path. It is the first truly accurate and highly readable translation of this text to be published in English.

Customer Reviews:

Fine translation.......2007-09-23

In my opinion, you can safely buy this version if you would like a fine translation that is a pleasure to read.

Best Translation Yet.......2007-05-29

The translation of this classic book is the most readable for the contemporary reader.

Buddha's Holy Book.......2007-03-18

From the original Pali spoken by the Buddha ... this is the Buddhist holy book that captures the teachings of the founder of Buddhism. For those who want the source of Buddha's ways ... the Dhammapada explains the path.

Wonderful wisdom for the world!.......2007-03-08

This text has to be my favorite religious text of all time. It is so clear, so simple, and yet so profound. I believe the Dhammapada is the most important section of the Pali canon, to where if all other Buddhist texts in the world disappeared and only the Dhammapada remained, there would still be enough wisdom to go around. I will continue to use this book for the rest of my life to help me get insight in this crazy world we live in. The translation by Gil Fronsdal is absolutely superb. I know of no other English translation as excellent as this one, and the only better way to read this text is to read it in the original Pali.

Beautiful, poetic, moving translation -- a daily companion.......2007-02-28

Although I already owned a fine copy of The Dhammapada, I immediately bought this new translation when it came out, because I've so enjoyed Gil's dhamma free podcasts talks (available at the iTunes store) and was sure that the translation would share the qualities of heart and mind I've come to appreciate in this teacher. And sure enough, the translation has proved to be my favorite and a daily companion. There's something about this translation that brings the Buddha's words alive and makes one feel that the path is so doable -- and the very happiest way to live! This translation is a great gift to the world and to seekers of truth of whatever persuasion. I can't recommend it enough.

Average customer rating:

A Must Read
PARA PENSAR
Excellent little book of buddhist Wisdom
Beautiful and inspiring
Poetic but outdated translation

The Dhammapada (Penguin Classics)
Anonymous
Manufacturer: Penguin Classics
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Customer Reviews:

A Must Read.......2007-08-04

I've read about 100 buddhism books, and so far, I think this one (this translation of the Dhammapada) and the Dalai Lama's "A Flash of Lightning in the Dark of Night - A Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life" are the best buddhism teachings I've read to date.

I read the earlier reviews by some stating this translation is not accurate. Maybe other translations are more literally word for word correct with the original; however, I feel that this translation conveys the teaching the best.

Read the various translations that Riku Simonen presented in his post, and the one that Thomas gave in the comment to Simonen's post. Forget about the accuracy of the translation, which one makes the most sense?

Supposively Buddha stated that a person should not follow any teaching based on blind faith, that all teachings should be questioned, and only the ones that are true to a person's heart should be followed.

PARA PENSAR.......2006-06-27

Cualquier persona que quiera conocer un poco más sobre las posiciones existenciales del budismo podrá encontrar en este libro poesía llena de gracia. Este camino le da ocho caminos de perfección:
1)El de la determinación correcta
2)El de las palabras correctas
3)El de las acciones correctas
4)El de la subsistencia correcta
5)El esfuerzo correcto
6)Recuerdo correcto
7) La comunión final
Este libro es tan chiquito que no se vaya a preocupar pensando que es la biblia de los budistas.

Excellent little book of buddhist Wisdom.......2006-05-26

This is the best value for you money and time you will find in religious literature.This is an excellent translation of the Buddhist Dhammapada(Path of Truth). If you are not familiar with Buddhism, this is a great starting point.Laying out the wisdom of the Buddha, in what is probably very close to his original oral teachings. It is very similiar to the Bible's book of proverbs. It has an excellent introduction.It is a very very quick read,I believe this is some of the world's best wisdom literature. Youy can read the whole book in less than an hour and a half.Start here on your journey to enlightenment.

Beautiful and inspiring.......2003-02-11

The Dhammapada is one of the world's great religious classics, and its pithy, poetic style makes it very direct and inspiring. Like some of the other reviewers, I don't read Pali, and it's probably true that this isn't the most literal translation. However, I've read several translations of the Dhammapada and this has been my favorite for a long time. In any translation of a poetic nature, the translator must choose a certain balance between a strictly literal translation of the source material and a poetic rendering of the material in the target language, and Mascaro leans a little toward the latter. I've been a student of Buddhism for some years, though, and I find very few places where Mascaro's translation seems to be inaccurate --- even though there are other translations that may be a little more precise and literal. In any case, there are many Buddhist philosophical works where precision of terminology is critical, but, since the Dhammapada is a more general work consisting mainly of aphorisms, it's one work where a little poetic license seems acceptable.

Poetic but outdated translation.......2002-09-07

Having read Max Muller's over 100 year misleading translation, Carter's and Palihawadana's philosophical, dry, but excellent translation, which, with annonations builds up whole buddhist philosophical system, Mascaro's translation is deeply disappointing. While I can't understand Pali, Carter's translation is -or at least seems to be very convincing translation. Mascarara's translation is beatiful and poetic but has same grave philosophical errors than Muller's outdated translations. Let's see one example.

Chapter one, verse one is translated by Muller as:
All that we are is the result of what we have thought: it is founded on our thoughts, it is made up of our thoughts. If a man speaks or acts with an evil thought, pain follows him, as the wheel follows the foot of the ox that draws the carriage

Mascaro's also misleading translation goes like:
What we are today comes from our thoughts of yesterday, and out present thoughts build our life of tomorrow: our life is the creation of our mind.
If a man speaks or act with an impure mind, suffering follows him as the wheel of the cart follows the beast that draws the cart.

But Carter's et al. translation reveals the (propably) true (philosophical) meaning of the verse:
Proceeded by perception are mental states,*1
for them is perception supreme,
from them perception have they sprung.
If, with perception polluted*2, one speaks or acts,
Thence suffering follows
As a wheel the draughts wheel ox's foot.

annonations of Carter's book:

*1 perception...mental states: the pure event of seeing, hearing, smelling etc. an object is 'perception'; the concurrent rise of attachment, hate, anger, desire etc. with regard to it ís the mental states.

Book Description

The Dhammapada is one of the most popular and accessible books in all of Buddhist literature. In it are the words of the Buddha, teaching that all suffering stems from desire and that the way to attain freedom is to purify the heart and follow the way of truth. Thomas Byrom's verse rendering of the Dhammapada uniquely captures the Buddha's original teachings with simplicity and lyricism.

Customer Reviews:

Bad translation, but great Buddhist text.......2007-04-13

The Dhammapada is one of the Buddhist scriptures that Buddhists can really agree upon. It is not a sutra (or sermon) as such, but contains a wonderful collection of sayings by the Buddha without getting overly abstract as one can find in some sutras.

Having read a few copies of the Dhammapada, I think this copy one has unfortunately one of the worst translations. The translations are often awkward, but other times, the choices in terms are kind of New-Agey rather than accurate. The fact that Ram Dass, who is more New Age guru than Buddhist, did the forward for this copy of the Dhammapada does not bode well.

I suggest Walpola Rahula's book "What the Buddha Taught" which has a nicer translation of the Dhammapada at the end, as well as other sample sutras.

Interesting introduction to Buddhism........2006-08-15

This book is useful to anyone interested in knowing more about Buddhism. Unfortunately Byrom's translation does not seem to me to be the best. There are no verse numbers, and in comparing this to Easwaran's translation, I could see that the paragraphs do not always correspond to a new verse. Also Byrom removed the name Mara (Buddhist equivalent of Satan), replacing it usually with 'desire'.
But still, I have learned a lot about Buddhism from this book and Easwaran's book. I saw just one contradiction (about whether we should be afraid of anything), which is a lot less than I found in the Bible.
In the last chapter, Buddha tells us not to kill or hurt anything. Personally I believe we need armies. Thankfully Buddhist countries do not follow this advice, or else they would be overrun by aggressor nations.
In the first chapter, Buddha tells us to abandon thoughts about how criminals hurt us. If we followed such advice, we would not report crimes to the police, and criminals would continue to hurt others. Similar controversial advice is in the Bible, where Jesus tells us to forgive everyone.
So I am still looking for the right religion.
But the Dhammapada has a lot of good anyway, telling us to be ethical and not selfish.
So I encourage readers to buy some translation of Dhammapada and compare it with scriptures of other religions.

Simply Fantastic, Fantastically Simple.......2005-12-02

Actual content aside, this version of the Dhammapada is sturdy and doesn't feel "cheap." The pages are nice and thick, the cover is beautiful without being loud or overly interesting, and the small size make it convenient to carry in whatever pocket you have to spare.

I've taken this all over the place; London, Vienna, San Francisco...it's been thrown around inside of my luggage, twisted, dropped, and subjected to a number of other things that happen to a book which I carry on my person often. The binding has held through all of this, and it looks as good as the day I got it (okay, it looks a little bit weathered, but that adds character...and it's no surprise when you consider what I've put this little gem through).

This is the best version I own, translation-wise, construction-wise, and size-wise. And it's cheap!

-Dave

the Dhammapada.......2005-09-04

This particular Dhammapada is very nice to read,
it just flows very comfortabley. There is not alot
of commentary after each sentence, just a short
introduction and then the teachings of the Buddha.
The HC is perfect for a pocket or a waist pack,
backpack etc,. My advice is, get it, read it,
keep it, and read it again, and then again.
Dont give up...

Dhammapada: Book Review.......2004-02-16

Dhammapada is a collection of early sayings in Sanskrit from the Buddha translated by Thomas Byrom. The founder of the Buddhist religion and a prince who abdicated his crown in Northern India to live the life as an ascetic, Buddha (563-483 B.C.) left his teachings in the form of oral discourses. These were in turn passed down through generations by means of oral transmission. Because of this attribute many such teachings (now known as Sutras) are metered as repetitive poems made easy for oral recitation.
Dhammapada differs from other Sutras in that it ventures little into the metaphysical nature of reality or life. Instead, it is a simple treatise that reminds us about the many virtues of life that we should practice daily. Thus, lessons about "living purely" (104), "blissful awakening" (78), "[letting] go of anger... [and] pride" (59), "living in honesty and strength" (88), "living in love" (100), and many others abound throughout the text. It contains a treasure of aphorisms that will make the reader stop, think over, and radically confront the truths held therein. Because of its positive affirmation of life and all its virtues, it is an uplifting Sutra that purifies the heart and enlightens the mind.
The English translation rendered by Byrom is exceptional in that it captures the poetic eloquence and fluidity of the original text with its own metered tempo. As presented, the translation is a masterpiece in its own right, with the translator juggling with words that take the reader to dizzying heights of poetic contemplation. Byrom's masterful choice of words strikes a deep resonance with this reader. When further weighed with Buddha's teachings in the background, this small text unfolds as a jewel of mystic and enlightened literature that stands second to none.
Although the text teaches mainly the practice of the virtues in our daily lives, it does not lose sight of the ultimate aspiration for all of us, namely liberation or nirvana. Thus by meditating on love, purifying the heart, and freeing the mind from "passion, enmity, folly" (6), "from desire and sorrow" (27), "from attachment and appetite" (26), it teaches that we will at last reach "freedom without bounds" (27).
A few of my all-time favorites include:

In this world
Hate never yet dispelled hate.
Only love dispels hate,
This is the law,
Ancient and inexhaustible (2).

and

However young,
The seeker who sets out upon the way
Shines bright over the world (102) .

... day and night
The man who is awake
Shines in the radiance of the spirit (104).

Meditate.
Live purely.
Be quiet.
Do your work, with mastery (104).

Like the moon,
Come out from behind the clouds!
Shine (102).
(my own arrangement of sequence)

Book Description

The Dhammapada, the Pali version of one of the most popular texts of the Buddhist canon, ranks among the classics of the world's great religious literature. Like all religious texts in Pali, the Dhammapada belongs to the Therevada school of the Buddhist tradition, adherents of which are now found primarily in Kampuchea, Laos, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Dhammapada, or 'sayings of the dhamma', is taken to be a collection of the utterances of the Buddha himself. Taken together, the verses form a key body of teaching within Buddhism, a guiding voice along the struggle-laden path towards true enlightenment, or Nirvana. However, the appeal of these epithets of wisdom extends beyond its religious heritage to a general and universal spirituality. This edition provides an introduction and notes which examine the impact that the text has had within the Buddhist heritage through the centuries.

Customer Reviews:

A Scholarly Dhammapada.......2005-04-26

The Dhammapada is a deeply-inspiring religious text and the best-known work of the Theravada Buddhist canon. It consists of 423 short verses arranged in 26 chapters which cover, in brief form, the major aspects of the Buddha's teachings from the most mundane to the deepest. About 25 percent of the verses appear elsewhere in the Theravada Buddhist canon. In many Buddhist countries, children memorize this text which has much to teach both the learned and the simple. In its combination of simplicity and depth, the closest analogue to the Dhammapada in the Jewish-Christian Scriptures is the book of Psalms.

The Dhammapada has been well-served by many excellent translations. The translation under review here, by John Ross Carter, Professor of Philosophy at Colgate University, and Mahinda Palhawandana, Professer of Sanskrit Emeritus in Sri Lanka, is unique in its care and in the scope of its learning. In addition to the text, this translation includes line-by-line translations of the earliest Sri Lankan commentaries on the Dhammapada. These commentaries were written over the course of many centuries and systematized in about 1000 A.D. There is a separate and later series of commentaries on the text in which stories were written to illustrate the events that gave rise to the Buddha's utterance of each verse. These stories are not included here, but they are summarized in another well-known translation of the Dhammapada by the monk Narada, which I shall mention below.

This edition begins with a scholarly introduction to the text and the commentaries followed by an English rendition of the text of the Dhammapada without commentary. The next section of the book repeats the English translation together with the Pali text with the addition of the extensive commentary. Each chapter is arranged in accordance with the commentarial arrangement in which some verses are considered singly and others are combined in groups. Following the translation of text and commentary, there is a series of notes. Some of these notes deal with points of grammar while others describe in detail points of Buddhist teaching to illuminate the text and commentary.

The goal of this detailed presentation is to make the Dhammapada and its ancient interpretations available so that the interested reader may study the text with his or her own eyes. As Carter and Palihawanana state in their introduction (p. 9):

"It was our endeavor to make this work as much as possible a 'stitching of the centuries'. What this reveals is on the one hand the prodoundly evocative power of the religious sentiments expressed in the text, and on the other the conservatism of the tradition that interprets the text as we see in these documents. ... But from the way we set about it, what is of singular importance is the arrangement of this book: presenting the text itself as a text and presenting the history of its study in the setting of a growing tradition of interpretation....We wanted to make the text, as something in human hands, to point forward from the past through present into the future."

I want to give two brief examples from the translation. First, verse 183 of the Dhammapada is universally regarded as offering the shortest, most basic statement of the Buddha's teaching. Here it is in Carter and Palihawadana:

"Refraining from all that is detrimental,
The attainment of what is wholesome,
The purification of one's mind:
This is the instruction of Awakened Ones."

Note how the translation avoids the use of the word "bad" in line one and "good" in line two. Many might question this. But the point of this translation is to avoid the theistic connotations many Western readers will bring to the words "good" and "bad". Also note the term "Awakened Ones" in the final line rather than the more literal and traditional translation, "all the Buddhas". The difference points in the direction of universalizing the teaching rather than, perhaps, limiting it by sectarianism.

I want to look briefly at verse 1 of the Dhammapada which is basic to much of what follows in the text. It is also perhaps the most difficult verse in the work. Here it is in Carter and Palihawadana:

"Preceded by perception are mental states,
For them is perception supreme,
From perception have they sprung.
If, with perception polluted, one speaks or acts,
Thence suffering follows
As a wheel the draught ox's foot."

Most translation of verse 1 speak in terms of "the mind." Thus, Narada translates the beginning of the verse: "Mind is the forerunner of (all evil) states. Mind is chief: mind-made are they." ... Carter and Palihawadana try to present the text in a way that will not encourage the Western reader to equate it with the idealism of Plato or Berkeley. The verse remains a difficult and deep teaching on any reading.

I have the good fortune to participate in a Sutta Study Group where we read the Dhammapada chapter-by-chapter over the course of about one year. We used Carter and Palihawadana together with several other translations, as we discussed and debated and tried to understand the Dhammapada together.

The reader may not by lucky enough to have access to such a group, but the Dhammapada is a work that will reward individual study at any level. Some readers may find Carter and Palihawandana more than they need to begin. But for those wanting to make a detailed study of this great text, this work is invaluable.

Dhammapada as close to the Pali as the Buddha is to the hear.......2004-07-08

Carter and Palihawadana have done an excellet job keeping close to the Pali with their 1987 work.

If the chapters sound stilted and harsh to the Western ears, then that may have more to do with the awkwardness of the English language which often fails to simply render the spiritual depths of the heart of the Buddha adequately.

The layout of the book is of three parts:
Introduction, The Text and the Text With Transliteration and Commentary.

The introduction by Jaroslav Pelikan, a noted Yale historian with an academic knowledge of organized religion, notes that this is a long-distance collaboration where the originaly manuscript may have been a lot of ocean voyages on its own.

The Text covers the English translation from Chapters 1 to 26.

If the text is dry in parts, it might be because both authors may not have had the luxury of a long ocean voyage during which such allusions to the spiritual ocean of mercy and love (compassion) may have had time to be realized as the complement of the spiritual wisdom hinted at through the academic knowledge contained in Pelikan's introduction, Carter's invisible hand at the Text, and Palihawadana's translation and philological commentary.

However, the lack of numbered reference notes to match the citations throughout Palihawadana left me eager for the pages that match the numbered references with the proper citations.

Indeed, there are 63 such references awaiting final resolution. Yet the commentaries are very edifying and always delight me with a somewhat greater familitarity with Pali than before I opened the book.

Excellent Translation.......2003-01-22

This is one of the finest versions of the classic Theravada text out there. Carter and Palihawadana managed to strike the perfect balance of getting the timeless message of the Buddha's teaching across while at the same time presenting it in a straight foward, easy to understand manner. Those who are unfamiliar with The Dhammapada will find this translation very accessible while those who are will greatly appreciate beautiful wisdom-filled verses that Carter and Palihawadana have so eloquently preserved. The Introduction and explanatory notes throughout the text also provide a great deal of rich knowledge which adds even more depth to this most cherished of work of Buddhist literature.

Fine translation.......2002-04-04

I have previously read classic Max Muller's version and some translations foud at numerous web-pages. I think this is clearly
the best of them. Carter and Palihawadana have retained texts lyric style but still their ambition is to bring autentic text as such to us. Hence reader have to use glossary where most importánt words and referensees are. I may be a bit annoying but
If you really want know exactly what what is in original dhammapada you has to use such method. Some at web "intreprete"
too much, then the text may look easier but It may go also wrong.
Only negative comment is that people to which english is not native language, text may have too mamy many fine but unfamiliar words. I recommend this book. It is one of the classics of Worlds religious teachings.

Infinitely better than the Penguin Classics version.......2001-01-27

It is not easy to translate an ancient Indian language (Pali) to flowing English and retain the original meanings and senses.

This is a meticulous translation and it is clear the authors have spent time and effort to try and get it right. One of the authors being Sinhalese (which is also a language close to Pali)would have better understood the meanings and senses of terms more than most Western scholars, and the joint authorship suggests a polished and balanced approach to attain near perfection.

No translation can articulate the experiential meanings behind the verses or hope to equal the ancient meanings. But this one gets close representing an honest attempt at a challenging goal. The English may appear somewhat academic but this is a thoroughly modern translation and OUP have done their homework in bestowing authorship.

The publisher is to be congratulated and this book deserves the shelf of any good library.

The Still Point Dhammapada: Living the Buddha's Essential Teachings
Average customer rating:

Making "Buddhism" our own

Providing a haven for the world...

Shine One Corner

Zen in the City

The Still Point Dhammapada: Living the Buddha's Essential Teachings
Geri Larkin
Manufacturer: HarperOne
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Buddhism | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0060513705

Book Description

The Dhammapada is much loved by Buddhist practitioners as a simple and straightforward rendition of some of Buddha's core teachings, and is read daily by thousands of people. While there are many translations available, few have an inclusive – and lyrical – sensibility. In studying various versions of this sacred text, Larkin noted many discrepancies and embarked upon an entirely original translation. Each instalment gets tested at the Still Point Zen Buddhist Temple in Detroit, a remarkable Zen centre in the heart of one of the roughest neighbourhoods in the country.

This small gift hardcover will have the appeal of the Thomas Byrom/Ram Dass edition, but will be made even more accessible with each chapter's introduction containing a powerful contemporary anecdote from the Still Point Temple community. This 'Downtown Dhammapada' will appeal not only to Buddhists, but to those who also appreciate beautifully rendered sacred texts as simply good reading.

Customer Reviews:

Making "Buddhism" our own.......2004-05-04

A book like this is a window into a process. This is not an introduction to meditation practice itself (that territory is amply covered elsewhere) but a look at a young community of practitioners findings its way, and the Way, in 21st century Detroit.

This community worked together on an adapted translation of the Dhammapada, a much-beloved collection of sayings of the Buddha which provide day-to-day, moment-by-moment encouragement that it is possible to let go of greed, anger, and delusion, and live a life that lists to deep awareness and compassion like a current that carries an empty boat.

This is not merely a literary project, however. This version of the Dhammapada, which breathes with fresh language and terms easily acceptable to new students in the United States, comes to us through the personal practice of the members of this community, whom we get to know through the short, anecdotal chapters that follow each canto of the text. Ancient wisdom, and the bumpy business of everyday life, interact in something almost approximating parallel text.

So it is a window into a process, a process by which a new Zen community matures, and by which an American Buddhism is slowly taking form. How wonderful to find this tradition finding its roots in our soil.

Providing a haven for the world..........2003-10-17

P'arang (the Buddhist name of author Geri Larkin) does what very few other writers are able to do these days: Write a compelling, sometimes humorous, always fiercely insightful book that's hard to put down.

In fact, I finished The Still Point Dhammapada: Living the Buddha's Essential Teachings in just two evenings -- and I'm sure I'll refer to it repeatedly in days to come.

The purpose of the book is two-fold: (1) It includes a very smooth-flowing, inclusive-language rendering of the Dhammapada, and (2) Interwoven with the Dhammapada is Ms. Larkin's observations about everything from what it's like to provide a haven for the folks in downtown Detroit, to daily struggles to abide by the Buddha's teachings to meetings with everyday (albeit fascinating) people.

P'arang's tone is always self-effacing, earthy and compassionate. Real. Sincere. She comes across as someone you'd like to chat with over a cup of tea.

For the record, I'm a Christian. Yet, I have recently become fascinated by Zen and have read many books on this ancient worldview. Why? Because I appreciate its philosophy of "mindfulness," which means to be fully awake and aware of life and to relish every minute, every thing, and every person along the way.

Zen is a simple worldview, yet it can be as deep and vast as you'd like it to be.

So it's no wonder I enjoyed Ms. Larkin's book so much. Her writing exemplifies what Zen has to offer.

If you're wondering how Zen Buddhists live their lives, you ought to consider reading The Still Point Dhammapada. It's one of the best books I've read on the subject -- although I don't think Ms. Larkin's goal was to write an apologetic for Buddhism. I think she just wanted to share her observations and comments about life as a Zen Buddhist teacher. Take 'em or leave 'em.

I took 'em. And really enjoyed The Still Point Dhammapada. I found it to be a wonderful peek into the world of Zen Buddhism from someone who knows it well. I highly recommend it -- along with The Still Point Zen Buddhist Temple web site.

Shine One Corner.......2003-06-21

Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike: read this book!! The Still Point Dhammapada is moving and wise - the translations of the Buddha's words are simple (in the best sense) yet, of course, profound. Equally compelling are the stories from the streets around the Still Point abbey and temple. There are lots of stereotypes about Detroit - and Larkin & co. add voice and vision so that readers can really get a feel for the life of the neighborhood and the practice of "guerilla kindness." But don't mistake this for some pollyanna-ish text; the stories are alternately heartbreaking, funny and gritty. Coupled with the verses from the dhammapada, they teach by showing.
This is a lovely book.

Zen in the City.......2003-04-16

She's done it again. This book is a wonderful tribute to the teachings of the Buddha and my spiritual home, Still Point Zen Buddhist Temple. The timeless teachings of the Buddha are interwoven beautifully with tales of everyday people living and breathing the dharma in Detroit. I love you and keep shining our corner, P'arang...

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