Buddhism Plain and Simple
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Plain and Simple
  • great intro to the world of buddhism
  • Easy Peasy!! Get this one FIRST.
  • Simplicity opens the door.
  • Simply vapid
Buddhism Plain and Simple
Steve Hagen
Manufacturer: Broadway
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0767903323
Release Date: 1998-12-29

Amazon.com

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. --Brian Bruya

Book Description

“A beacon light of clarity and wisdom, a sobering teacher for us all. Simple and outstanding. Highly recommended.” - Charlotte Joko Beck, author of Everyday Zen

“This is. . . . about awareness. Not awareness of something in particular, but awareness itself'being awake, alert, in touch with what is actually happening. It's about examining and exploring the most basic questions of life. It's about relying on the immediate experience of this present moment. It's about freedom of mind.” - Steve Hagen

The observations and insights of the Buddha are practical and eminently down-to-earth, dealing exclusively with awareness in the here and now. Buddhism Plain and Simple offers listeners these fundamental teachings, stripped of the cultural trappings that have accumulated around Buddhism over the past twenty-five centuries. The newcomer will be inspired by the clear, simple principles found in Buddhism Plain and Simple, and those familiar with Buddhism will welcome this long-needed overview.

“Buddhism Plain and Simple is a delightfully direct pathway toward our true heart.” - Steven Levine, author of Who Dies?

Read by the author.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Plain and Simple.......2007-10-05

The title tells it all! I had always wanted to know just what Buddhism was all about. After attempting to read other articles and books on the subject, I had just abut given it up until I ran across this one. Naturally the title intrigued me, I purchased it I am pleased to say it is "excellent". Thank you, Steve Hagen!

4 out of 5 stars great intro to the world of buddhism.......2007-09-05

easy to read, easy to follow and great, easy points to keep in mind after reading the book.

this was a perfect book to read to get the feel for buddhism and to feel confident to read something more advanced.

5 out of 5 stars Easy Peasy!! Get this one FIRST........2007-07-22

This HAS to be one of the BEST {["Introductions"]} to Buddhism I've ever come across. Plain (yes it is!!) simple - yes, & easy to understand & digest. Short, concise & to the point. In fact it's ALL of the positive comments made here above already. Refreshing & intelligently written. More importantly it's very "enlightening" (pun intended).

A perfect starter book if you want to get an inkling for what "all the rage" is about, especially if you're a student of any kind and short on study time.

Even if you're not a Buddhist, or not even thinking about becoming one, it's good to have some understanding of this "up and coming" religion so that you may have a better and more informed understanding of the people from the lands that practice it and where you may go one day on holiday too!

5 out of 5 stars Simplicity opens the door........2007-07-20

As a newcomer to Buddhism, I've encountered alot of mysticism and abstract philosophy in many of the books I've read so far. Buddhism Plain & Simple removes most of the complexity I've encountered in understanding awareness.
Without sounding pretentious or self-righteous, Hagen introduces Buddhism in a plain, straight-talking midwestern style which made it palatable, acceptable, and desirable to my ears. I intend to absorb all of his books.

1 out of 5 stars Simply vapid.......2007-07-13

The author writes as though information about things that are easy to conceptualize but hard to do, like paying continuous and close attention to the present moment as it happens, is best conveyed as though writing for simpletons. The result is a prose style so cloying and insipid as to verge on the unreadable. If you want to find out about Buddhism or meditation (which are really interesting; more so than you might think) try Mindfulness in Plain English.
Simple Buddhism: A Guide to Enlightened Living
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • greatest introduction for westerners
  • Just what a newbie needs
  • A Well Presented and Inspiring Guide to Buddhism
  • An accessible introduction to Buddhist thought
  • historical perspective and a guide to enjoying life
Simple Buddhism: A Guide to Enlightened Living
C. Alexander, Ph.D. Simpkins , and Annellen M., Ph.D. Simpkins
Manufacturer: Tuttle Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0804831769

Book Description

Exploring a new religion is no easy task. That's why the Simple series is so popular—these delightful books take readers by the hand and lead them into the basics of an Eastern faith without intimidation or confusion. Simple Buddhism, invites readers to discover this appealing religion and its peaceful doctrines, as well as:
* The history of Buddhism
* The themes of Buddhism (The Four Noble Truths, The Eightfold Path, Nirvana, and Nirvana, and more)
* How to apply Buddhism in your everyday life
* The ultimate thesis of Buddhism: to live in the moment, see things as they truly are, and recognize yourself as part of the whole

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars greatest introduction for westerners.......2005-10-23

I had learned before that the path of happiness wasnt exactly the same as the path of a specific goal, and that attachment to goals can cause trouble when multiple goals contradict, and arent seen clearly. From here, I was in a unique position to see how the mind sets up dualities, gets caught up in specifics, and suffers, as this book taught. Two weeks after starting this book, reading the phrase "no-mind" i realised that we naturally, when mindful, gravitate to wisdoms' way, and that there is no need for suffering, only to acknowledge pains purpose. This book is systematic, non-mystical in its communication, using scientific and psychological frameworks to show why the mind feels pain, and why when clung to suffers. Since this book shows the key principles in the different methods of enlightment, i believe this book to be a better starting point then say a zen book, or a tantric or faith based book, though all these are good when the general notions of buddhism are understood.

5 out of 5 stars Just what a newbie needs.......2005-01-21

This is a clear and effective guide to Buddhism 101 but much less wordy or unserious as a "Dummies"-type guide. The first part is about the history of Buddhism, which isn't the most interesting thing I ever read, but was informative. Part 2 is about basic Buddhist themes, such as the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. Part 3 is about putting Buddhism into practice in one's daily life and is very practical and patient.

If you're already at the intermediate level with Buddhism, this will be too simple for you. But if you've only learned meditation or had a general idea about Buddhism, this is very enlightening and concise.

5 out of 5 stars A Well Presented and Inspiring Guide to Buddhism.......2003-10-10

This book offers a great introduction to Buddhism. It puts it in context with a clear history and interesting review of sutras. The themes give you a good sense of what Buddhism deals with. The third section is a very easy to follow guide to get you started. Buddhism can get you in touch with yourself and your life, to wake up! This book beautifully introduces the reader to these important ideas and methods as it also guides in applying them to life. I have read all the other books by the Simpkins in this series and found each one useful. I am looking forward to their new release, Buddhism in Ten: Easy Lessons for Spiritual Growth.

5 out of 5 stars An accessible introduction to Buddhist thought.......2002-03-28

This accessible introduction to Buddhist thought and practices shows readers both how the mindful life is lived and how they can use these revered principles to promote harmony in their own lives. In addition to cornerstones such as the Four Noble Truths, the authors include meditation exercises for filling and clearing the mind, transcending negative experience, resolving conflict, and achieving inner balance.

4 out of 5 stars historical perspective and a guide to enjoying life.......2000-11-06

"Simple Buddhism" starts with a brief history of Buddhism and gives readers a perspective of the various philosophies that have evolved from the roots of Buddhism. More importantly it a useful guide to getting enjoyment out of every day life. It provides a framework for thinking, feeling, and coping with our world as well as a "how-to" primer on meditation.
Peace at Home: Simple Solutions for Relaxing Rooms
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Lives up 100% to its title. Ten stars
  • Excellent, practical advice with strong pictures
Peace at Home: Simple Solutions for Relaxing Rooms
Juliet Pegrum
Manufacturer: Chronicle Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0811839923

Book Description

Peace at Home reveals the principles for creating truly relaxing rooms through beautiful photographs, inspiring wisdom from Eastern philosophies, and practical design advice. Taking readers through each room in the home, author Juliet Pegrum shares the basic design elements that combine to create harmony, simplicity, and ease. For example, in the bedroom, light and texture play essential parts. Pegrum illustrates how softness can be maximized through the use of natural fibers, bountiful pillows and cushions, and plush surfaces; and how light is dimmed or muted for a restful effect. In the living room, she shows how careful selection and placement of furnishings create a welcoming flow and a convivial ambiance. Warm and inspiring photographs of havens of all types speak to apartment dwellers and homeowners alike. For anyone who strives to create a soothing retreat from the outside world, Peace at Home shows the way.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Lives up 100% to its title. Ten stars.......2006-02-15

When I read the inside back flap of the dust jacket and read that the author is a designer as well as a devotee of Tibetan Buddhism, and teaches yoga I senses I might like the book and I was not the least bit disappointed.

To many books on simplicity of design that I have checked out recently are void of true simplicity and or are to 'cute,' which suggested to me that the author thought he/she knew what simplicity of design was, but really did not.

There is nothing 'cute' about this book or its superb photographs. On page 27 the author notes 'Light and Dark. In addition to color, the balance and interplay of light and dark are instrumental in shaping our visual experience of our environment. To promote harmony and well being within our homes, it is essential to create a balance of light and shade in each interior that is appropriate to the room's function at different times of the day. Light has an energizing effect on the body, promoting activity and mental alterness; an abundance of light is therefore desirable in rooms that are used for active daytime pursuits.' Notice she realizes the power sunlight, natural light plays in our overall health. When we changed the colors in the cottage to brighter hues we noticed even occasional depression lifted. Because we felt both energized and destressed.

Now I readily admit that those people who prefer Levitz furniture style wont like this book, because this book and its photos are devoid of clutter that all to many American homes have an abundance of. Especially cookie cutter look alike suburban homes.

Also like as she shows on page 69, her example of how a blend of brick, tile wood and metal in clean lines can work well together. Or how on page 73 she notes that sensual stimulation is important especially at mealtime when one should strive to present food on colourful dishes. Makes me so happy I have a nice collection of Fiestaware in various colours with place settings for four in at least six colours since we entertain a lot.

Her examples of calming restful bathrooms is a feast for the eyes and one can see how using examples she shows can make soaking in a hot bath a spiritual and renewing experience. Clean crisp lines and no cluttered or overdone ceramic tile, shower curtains or matching rugs, toilet tank and toilet seat covers!

She even has a wonderful section on gardens and outdoor dining beginning on page 147 titled Gardens, Balconies and Decks. Where she shows examples of each that will fit in city, suburb or rural spaces.

A wonderful book for the person looking to plan well before they build or even buy a fixer upper. One of my favorite books on peaceful abodes and it lives up 100% to its title Peace At Home.

5 out of 5 stars Excellent, practical advice with strong pictures.......2005-01-14

Unlike most design books, I felt a strong emotional attachment to the succinctly conveyed advice, demonstrated in inspirational, calming pictures. I actually find it calming to review after a long day as well. I recommend taking your time and thoughtfully trying to digest its messages, as oppose to glossing over the pretty pictures.
Simple Zen: A Guide to Living Moment by Moment
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Great Intro to Zen
  • An excellent guide to Zen
  • Strictly for the Tourists
  • An inspiring introduction to Zen
  • A great guide to Zen
Simple Zen: A Guide to Living Moment by Moment
C. Alexander, Ph.D. Simpkins , and Annellen M., Ph.D. Simpkins
Manufacturer: Tuttle Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0804831742

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Great Intro to Zen.......2003-01-15

Before I bought this book I knew nothing about zen. As soon as I received the book in the mail I began flipping through the pages and I could not put this book down.
This book is an excellent guide for simplifying your life. By introducing a little bit of zen into your stressful life- you could definitely make your life a little bit more bearable.

5 out of 5 stars An excellent guide to Zen.......2002-04-05

This book does a good job of clearly pointing to the Zen experience. It is careful to recognize the wordless quality of Zen enlightenment. The discussions are thought provoking and the exercises definitely guide toward the experience. It explains the background and development of Zen, then describes the basic themes in Zen. The third section has exercises and meditations that really inspired me on my Zen path. I really got a lot out of it and recommend it to anyone interested in Zen.

1 out of 5 stars Strictly for the Tourists.......2001-05-07

Let's start with the 'good' news - this book is NOT 128 pages long, it is, including bibliography and index, 158 pages in length. Having said which, the pages are only about two-thirds the size of a regular paperback - so the book still isn't quite as large as it might seem.

And now for the other news. Namely, the whole book appears to be the author's personal view of Zen. Which wouldn't be a problem except that the author seems to have a totally sanitised, pre-packed for the American market, view of Zen.

In practice this means that, for example, pages 3 through 36, illustrate a seemingly continuous process of Dharma transmission and succession from Mahayana Buddhism, through Ch'an to Zen.
In historical reality, so far as we now know it, there is no such line, or even lines, of continuous transmission and development. Rather Ch'an Buddhism, and therefore Zen Buddhism, seriously lost its way after the death of Hui-neng (638-713).
I have no doubt that the author offers his version of Zen history in all good faith, but the fact is that the politiking of one of Hui-neng's students, a certain Shen-hui, brought about a dualism within the body of Ch'an/Zen teaching from which it has never recovered.
Its perpetuation through to the present day is demonstrated by the existance of, and competition between, Rinzai and Soto Zen.

As demonstrated by the heavy emphasis on historical considerations, this is a fairly academic, even sterile, description of Zen. (There are another 6 pages on the more recent history of Zen, plus 10 pages of "Time Lines" - in plain English that's: charts of supposed lines of succession.)
So approximately one quarter of the entire book is given over to the history of Zen. But what is it there for? Do we need to know this stuff in so much detail (even if it were accurate) in a book subtitled "A Guide to Living Moment by Moment"? I think not.
On the contrary, all it said to me was that the author is far more interested in parading his intellectual prowess than in delivering a real understanding of what Zen Buddhism is all about.

In short, this is a "strictly for the tourists"-type book. If all you want is a superficial "bluff your way in Zen" sort of introduction to the subject then I guess this may prove to be a sufficiently short read at an appropriately low price.

If, on the other hand, you want to acquire any kind of genuine understanding of Zen then this is definitely NOT for you.

3 out of 5 stars An inspiring introduction to Zen.......2001-04-10

Simple Zen is the title of this book and that's what this book really is about. I read a couple of other books on the subject that weren't really worth the time reading, not to mention buying them in the first place. However this book is a good introduction to Zen.
"Simple Zen" offers a fairly complete introduction to the origins of zen, about the different schools and their diffent approaches to attain enlightenment, important Zen masters of present and past, as well as a very usable ways for beginners to get started. Apart from the historical aspects, "Simple Zen" also deals with Zen "applications" apart from zazen (sitting meditation)--things like sumi-e (ink painting), haiku (poetry), ikebana, cha-no-yu (the tea way), martial arts, as well as a chapter on Zen in psychotherapy.
The bibliography at the end of the book is loaded with interesting book titles for further study. "Simple Zen"is an excellent entry point to get into Zen, which can be a daunting task for a Westerner whithout any guidance. What I especially like about a zen book is that it is short (this one has about 160 pages) and no lengthy highly philosophical intros. After all Zen is supposed to be something that cannot described with words... :-) Its something to be experienced.
There is a lot to discover and this book points into the right direction. An inspiring read in a world that painfully lacks spirituality.

5 out of 5 stars A great guide to Zen.......1999-10-31

This book describes Zen's development and themes. Includes easy-to-follow instructions on how to make everyday a Zen day. Simply wonderful!
The Everything Zen Book: Achieve Inner Calm and Peace of Mind Through Meditation, Simple Living, and Harmony (Everything Series)
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Finally, a book that makes Zen approachable.
  • Highly accessible
  • Learning From The Book, The Cushion & Applying It To Life
The Everything Zen Book: Achieve Inner Calm and Peace of Mind Through Meditation, Simple Living, and Harmony (Everything Series)
Jacky Sach , and Jessica Faust
Manufacturer: Adams Media Corporation
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1580629733

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Finally, a book that makes Zen approachable........2007-02-12

Back in the old days, you had to go to some exotic far-east country and climb a mountain, and most likely embrace the whole of Buddism in order to get an introduction to Zen. You might expect to be there for some time, in fact, studying under a very wise teacher who speaks little or no English.

Well, if you happen not to be a Buddist, and you don't want to travel for extended periods and live in other cultures like a native, and you have a life, there is good news. It's not that complicated. I am a Christian, and I practice Zen. It isn't complex or mysterious at all, you don't have to be a Buddist, and it is completely life changing.

This book is a good, clear introduction to Zen practice (which is what Zen is really all about). It also thoroughly covers most of the outer trappings of Zen as well. These things aren't necessary to Zen practice, but they add context. The thing this book does not do is get tangled up in Buddist dogma, which is deeply complex. Instead, it sticks to Zen, which is elegant, simple, and beautiful.

There are many, many books on Zen. The mysterious ones are fun but generally useless. This one is a good read, but not in the "mysterious" category. It is useful, and I would recommend it for beginning practitioners.

If you don't plan to practice, don't buy this book. It won't make any sense to you. Get one of the mysterious Zen books, read it, enjoy it, and if it inspires you to try Zen practice, then come back and buy this book.

5 out of 5 stars Highly accessible.......2005-09-04

This is the first beginning Zen book I've seen that explains terms and esoteric concepts in easy to understand, concise, plain English. Even the classic books tend to border on the mystical, so it was a refreshing read. As I read "THe Everything Zen Book", it make other books I've read and terms I've heard instantly clearer and helped me appreciate the aspects of Zen all that much more.

For example, I'd already read a book on taking a Zen Buddhist approach to writing. That book made very little sense to me until I read "The Everything Zen Book." That's when I finally understood what the other author had been trying to say.

If you're looking for a solid introduction, there is no better book out there. I'd highly recommend reading this book before reading any others on Zen, that are Zen-related, or that apply Zen-like approaches.

5 out of 5 stars Learning From The Book, The Cushion & Applying It To Life.......2004-02-09

(4.75 Stars)

I'm new to the Everything series books - and I'm enjoying them very much. They are pretty similar to the Dummies and Idiots books, but without that initial giggling of having the words ...for Dummies - and Idiot in the titles.

This is a great introduction to what Zen is and it has some of the best, useful and practical tips and advice on to how to practice that I've ever read.

The big focus in this book is the practice of Zen. That's not to say that all the book talks about is meditation. The Everything Zen Book pretty much covers as close to everything Zen as one book can.

I was most impressed with how The Everything Zen Book wonderfully emphasizes throughout that Zen is the Practice. No smoke and mirrors of what Zen is - just the real - as Jacky Sach's and Jessica Faust simply put:

Zen starts with seated meditation, then you take what you learn on the cushion and apply it to the rest of your life...

The negative - someone chose to have a horribly difficult to read font for the quotes that are peppered throughout the book - it ruined the initial experience of each of these fantastic quotes making them almost impossible to read. Not a deal breaker - I still highly recommend the book to those interested in Zen and those that want to further learn about hitting the cushion and start meditating...
In This Very Moment: A Simple Guide to Zen Buddhism
Average customer rating: Not rated
    In This Very Moment: A Simple Guide to Zen Buddhism
    James Ishmael Ford
    Manufacturer: Skinner House Books
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Paperback

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    Beyond Words: Dzogchen Made Simple
    Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
    • wigwam...
    • Using everyday language to communicate complex precepts
    • A very engaging, highly readable, educational overview
    Beyond Words: Dzogchen Made Simple
    Julia Lawless
    Manufacturer: Element Books Ltd.
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Hardcover

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    5. Approaching the Great Perfection: Simultaneous and Gradual Methods of Dzogchen Practice in the Longchen Nyingtig (Studies in Indian and Tibetan Buddhism) Approaching the Great Perfection: Simultaneous and Gradual Methods of Dzogchen Practice in the Longchen Nyingtig (Studies in Indian and Tibetan Buddhism)

    ASIN: 0007116772

    Book Description

    Introduces the practice of Dzogchen without requiring readers to know anything about Tibetan history or culture.

    Customer Reviews:

    1 out of 5 stars wigwam..........2003-11-30

    Maybe a little too simple. But then who doesn't want to believe in the magic lantern, mother goose, brothers grimm, and the occasional flying table cloth? I know I do!

    5 out of 5 stars Using everyday language to communicate complex precepts.......2003-09-18

    Co-written by Julia Lawless and Julia Lawless (practitioners of Dzogchen and conductors of Dzogchen numerous retreats since 1980), Beyond Words: Dzogchen Made Simple is an impressively accessible introduction to the Buddha's teachings, guru yoga and transmission, visions, Tibetan Buddhism as it has been received in the West, and more. Using everyday language to communicate complex precepts of mind and being, Beyond Words is very highly recommended for acclimatizing oneself to the basics of Dzogchen Tibetan Buddhism and an invaluable, core addition to personal studies reading lists and academic Buddhist Studies reference collections.

    4 out of 5 stars A very engaging, highly readable, educational overview.......2003-08-06

    (August 5, 2003)

    I have registered with online bookstores to give me instant notification of any new book with the word "dzogchen" in the title, so hungry am I to learn more. What a surprise it was to
    discover this book, the first dzogchen book I have seen that has been written by "untitled" westerners. Authors Julia Lawless and Judith Allan are not presented as lamas, tulkus, rinpoches, or even as anis, professors or translators. They are ordinary people, albeit with years of practice under their belts, giving testimony to Natural Mind. They speak simply, with joy and gratitude, about the wondrous nature of the dzogchen teachings and of the magnificent teachers past and present who are its principal exponents and our indispensable guides. Their everyman or everywoman perspective is a fresh viewpoint for English-language books in print on dzogchen, and one I feel is an important encouraging and even stabilizing force for sincere practice in Europe and North America.

    Although I have been fortunate to spend a lot of time at the feet of Tibetan masters, I learned new things in this book I will always remember. For example, I never knew that the incomparable Garab Dorje, this world's first dzogchen master, started life out with the nickname of "The Happy Zombie". Suddenly I felt much closer in spirit to Garab Dorje. Also, it was news to me, but very good news, that the great master Dudjom Rinpoche predicted that many terma will be discovered in the West and will be aimed specifically at the Western mind.

    My thanks go to the publishers for setting the book in 12-point type with wide open spaces and generous leading. The format was literally a sight for sore eyes, as many cost-conscious dharma publishers are on the verge of turning many dharma teachings into literal fine print to save paper and printing costs. I have chronic eyestrain. It was also quite a coup to not only
    find Dr. Gyurme Dorje this side of 10,000 yaks, but also to nail him down for a technical review. I hope the publishers did the right thing and paid out a respectable honorarium for such a service.

    I have just a few recommendations for improvement. I had the strong impression that the publishers rushed this book into print about two months ahead of schedule, perhaps to have
    the book launch coincide with some large and widely attended dharma event. All the tail-end publishing tasks seem to have been dropped. The book has no index. Despite no index, subtitles within chapters are not included in the table of contents. There is the strangest glossary I have ever seen, a list of terms with no definitions. And I was going round the bend with separate lists of numbered footnotes and references. The bibliography listed an interesting-sounding talk by Pir Vilayat Khan, but under "n" for "Notes". I had to look long and hard for this reference.

    Regarding the book's focus, it was clear the authors were making every effort to avoid the use of "technical buzzwords", to use a phrase quoted in the book from Dr. Jim Valby, who ironically is himself one of the progenitors of "technical buzzwords" for the western mind, by virtue of his stated part-time occupation as a translator. The book's cover flap mentions "pointing-out instruction", but not the book, although I found one, single reference to "Direct Introduction". As mentioned above, no definitions were provided in the glossary of Tibetan words used in the book. No direct, explicit references were made to key dzogchen terminology such as trekcho and togal. While I appreciate Dr. Valby's concern about the potential preponderance of self-proclaimed masters leaning only on the lingo and a few early translations of tantric rituals for credibility, I don't think such people could cause long-term damage. Let's face it, you can't fake a rainbow body. Thanks to our teachers, westerners will sooner or later see the light.
    Zen in 10 Simple Lessons
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Zen in 10 Simple Lessons
      Anthony Man-Tu Lee , and David Weiss
      Manufacturer: Barron''s Educational Series
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Paperback

      ZenZen | Buddhism | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
      Zen PhilosophyZen Philosophy | Buddhism | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Other Eastern Religions | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
      DevotionalsDevotionals | Spirituality | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
      ASIN: 0764118358

      Book Description

      From its origins in sixth-century China and subsequent flourishing in Japan, the branch of Buddhism called Zen has spread around the world. But it is more than a religion. Zen teachings touch on all aspects of practical life, with emphasis on mental focus and heightened awareness of reality. This book is divided into ten chapters, each intended to be read as one in a series of hour-long Zen lessons. They explain how to apply the qualities of simplicity and harmony inherent in Zen to everyday things for a more joyous, meaningful, and intensely experienced life. The ten lessons cover the following subjects: A brief history of Zen, Zen teachings and precepts, Meditation and self-mastery, Zen and relationships, Zen and health, Zen and food, Zen and the workplace, Zen and the home, Zen and the garden, Zen and the arts. The author discusses several aspects of Zen, including forms of meditation, the paradoxical Zen phrases known as koans, and the Zen way of cultivating goodness. The text is enhanced throughout with full-color photos and illustrations.
      Zen and the Art of Intimacy: The Simple Path of Passion, Fidelity and Love
      Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
      • Excellent and thought-provoking book
      Zen and the Art of Intimacy: The Simple Path of Passion, Fidelity and Love
      Arthur Samuels
      Manufacturer: Element Books Ltd.
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Hardcover

      Love & RomanceLove & Romance | Relationships | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
      MarriageMarriage | Relationships | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Sex Instruction | Sex | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Psychology & Counseling | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
      HumanHuman | Sexuality | Psychology & Counseling | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
      Zen PhilosophyZen Philosophy | Buddhism | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
      New AgeNew Age | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books | Astrology | Chakras | Channeling | Divination | Dreams | General | Goddesses | Meditation | Mental & Spiritual Healing | Mysticism | New Thought | Reference | Reincarnation | Self-Help | Theosophy | Urantia | Visionary Fiction
      ASIN: 0007176880

      Book Description

      Helps readers experience intimacy and commitment in a way that is liberating, fulfilling and deeply gratifying.

      Customer Reviews:

      5 out of 5 stars Excellent and thought-provoking book.......2007-07-21

      I was initially hesitant when I read the title of this book, "Zen & the Art of Intimacy." Being unmarried and deeply involved in the Christian faith, I wasn't sure what I would find. However, I was extremely pleased with the practical meditation tips that it provided. I actually used what I learned to help me get over the stress during my Law School Admissions Test - it helped me get a better score. The first half of the book focuses on appreciating yourself more, which in turn allows you to have more meaningful relationships with others. I highly recommend this book, especially if you struggle with self-doubt, frustrating thoughts, or difficulties getting close to others.
      Zen Meditation: Plain and Simple
      Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
      • Nice little primer
      Zen Meditation: Plain and Simple
      Albert Low
      Manufacturer: Tuttle Publishing
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Paperback

      ZenZen | Buddhism | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | New Age | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
      MeditationMeditation | New Age | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
      Similar Items:
      1. To Know Yourself: Talks, Stories, and Articles on Zen (Tuttle Library of Enlightenment) To Know Yourself: Talks, Stories, and Articles on Zen (Tuttle Library of Enlightenment)
      2. Hakuin on Kensho: The Four Ways of Knowing Hakuin on Kensho: The Four Ways of Knowing
      3. Creating Consciousness: A Study of Consciousness, Creativity, and Violence Creating Consciousness: A Study of Consciousness, Creativity, and Violence
      4. The Iron Cow of Zen The Iron Cow of Zen
      5. Zen and the Sutras (Tuttle Library of Enlightenment Series) Zen and the Sutras (Tuttle Library of Enlightenment Series)

      ASIN: 0804832110

      Book Description

      First published by Tuttle in 1989 as An Invitation to Practice Zen, it has gone on to sell nearly 20,000 copies. Now, with a new preface and updated instructional photographs, it's perfect to help a new generation of readers looking to learn the basics of zazen, zen meditation. With a concise overview of the basics and clear photographs illustrating the proper positions and postures, this comprehensive guidebook demystifies the age-old practice of zazen and brings its numerous benefits into the daily lives of today's Westerners.

      Customer Reviews:

      4 out of 5 stars Nice little primer.......2001-04-22

      Zen Meditation: Plain and Simple is an excellent little primer on how to sit in zazen. Also covered are the basics of Buddhism and Zen. The instructions are easy to understand, and the explanations are concise if slighly dry.

      The only drawback is that the pictures showing the positions are in black and white, and the model is wearing dark clothing and socks. This makes it very difficult to tell the difference between the Lotus and Half Lotus positions if you don't already know.

      The book stresses persistance, and that "anything brought up by zazen can be solved in zazen". It is a simple, fairly undogmatic approach to the practice of meditation.

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