Books matching: zen buddhism
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- #1
Save:'The Way of Zen' by Alan W. Watts is a scholarly popularization of Zen Buddhism, providing an introduction to Western readers about the principles and practices of this ancient religion. Watts delves into the origins and history of Zen, explaining its relevance in today's world with clarity. The book offers insights into the historical development of Zen Buddhism and its place in the context of other forms of Buddhism, providing a readable study for those interested in the subject.
The writing style of 'The Way of Zen' is described as clear and lucid, presenting complex Eastern philosophical concepts in a comprehensive manner that is understandable to Western readers. Watts is praised for his ability to explain difficult ideas clearly, making the book accessible to those unfamiliar with Zen Buddhism and other Eastern philosophies. The book covers various aspects of Zen Buddhism, Taoism, and other Buddhist schools, providing a well-rounded introduction to these subjects.
Zen Buddhism is a way and a view of life which does not belong to any of the formal categories of modern Western thought. It is not religion or philosophy; it is not a psychology or a type of science.... The Empty Mirror: Experiences in a Japanese Zen Monastery by Janwillem van de Wetering is a memoir that follows the author's journey as a young Dutch student who decides to study with a Zen monk in Kyoto, Japan. The book vividly describes his experiences, both humorous and insightful, during his time at the monastery, showcasing valuable spiritual lessons and personal growth. The writing style is described as raw, unpretentious, and engaging, allowing readers to peek into the world of Zen Buddhism in the 1960s and early 70s through the eyes of a foreigner navigating a new culture and philosophy.
- #3
Save:'On Having No Head' by Douglas E. Harding is a book that presents a unique perspective on self-awareness and consciousness. The author challenges readers to consider the idea that they do not have a head, both literally and metaphorically. Harding blends Eastern and Western philosophies to explore the concept of oneness and the illusion of separateness. Through a mix of Zen Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, and science, the book delves into the fundamental nature of reality and the self.
Harding's writing style has been described as both challenging and enlightening. Some readers find the book difficult to follow, with fragmented thoughts and unconventional structures. However, others appreciate the simplicity and clarity of his method for self-realization. The book encourages readers to question their perceptions and view the world from a new perspective, ultimately aiming to awaken individuals to their true nature beyond the limitations of the mind.
Somehow or other I had vaguely thought of myself as inhabiting this house which is my body, and looking out through its two little round windows at the world. Now I find it isn’t like that at all. As ... 'The Unfettered Mind' by Takuan Soho is a profound exploration of the mental side of using a sword or any weapon, emphasizing the importance of being mentally prepared and right-minded. The book contains three essays or letters addressed to masters of the sword arts, delving into the unification of Zen spirit with the spirit of the sword. Takuan Soho effortlessly uses Buddhism's mystical nature to simplify complex thoughts and offers deep insights on temperament, mental discipline, and the lifelong pursuit of training and self-education.
In the practice of Buddhism, there are said to be fifty-two stages, and within these fifty-two, the place where the mind stops at one thing is called the abiding place. Abiding signifies stopping, and...'Hardcore Zen' by Brad Warner is a unique take on Buddhism, blending punk rock ethos with Zen philosophy. Warner, a former punk rocker turned monk, offers a blunt and sometimes over-the-top introduction to Zen, emphasizing questioning authority and finding one's own truth. The book covers fundamental Buddhist concepts like the Four Noble Truths and the role of Zazen, demystifying complex ideas in a clear and coherent manner. Warner's writing style is described as witty, irreverent, and engaging, making Zen accessible to readers who may not identify as spiritual or religious.
For me it was this: Turning away from an overflowing toilet in a crummy basement bar in the middle of an Ohio winter with a bunch of apes in leather jackets outside shouting in unison as some other ap...- #6
Save:'Practice of the Wild' by Gary Snyder is a collection of essays that delve into deep ecology, nature, and the relationship between humans and the environment. Snyder combines poetry and philosophical reflections to explore the impact of nature on individuals and societies. The writing style is described as challenging and discursive, with Snyder presenting his beliefs through stories, observations, and reflections rather than didactically. The essays touch on themes such as wilderness, sacred places, historical commons, and the need for harmony between humans and nature.
- #7
Save:Zen in the Art of Archery by Eugen Herrigel is a book that delves into the author's journey of understanding Zen through the practice of kyudo, Japanese archery. The book narrates Herrigel's experiences as he immerses himself in the teachings of Japanese Zen masters to achieve a balance between body and mind. Through the practice of archery, Herrigel learns the importance of complete abandonment of 'the self' and the Western principles that define individuality. The book offers insights into Zen principles and learnings, guiding both practitioners and non-practitioners through physical and spiritual lessons in a clear and insightful manner.
Professor Herrigel's writing style in Zen in the Art of Archery is concise, straightforward, and insightful. He shares his experiences and imparts knowledge gained from his six-year quest to master archery under Japanese Zen masters. The book provides a unique perspective on the mystical possibilities of traditional techniques, emphasizing the importance of practice and doing over mere theoretical knowledge. Herrigel's narrative is rich in personal experiences and offers a treasure trove of wisdom that can be revisited to revitalize one's own practice of Zen principles.
In 1936 a lecture which I had delivered to the German−Japanese Society in Berlin appeared in the magazine Nippon under the title "The Chivalrous Art of Archery". I had given this lecture with the utmo... - #8
Save:The Book of Tea by Kakuzo Okakura is a philosophical exploration of the Japanese tea ceremony, Teaism, and its influence on Japanese culture and aesthetics. Okakura uses tea as a metaphor to demystify Japanese culture for a Western audience, discussing topics such as Zen Buddhism, Taoism, art appreciation, and flower arranging in relation to Teaism. The book delves into the history and significance of the tea ceremony, emphasizing simplicity, beauty, and the appreciation of the present moment.
Tea began as a medicine and grew into a beverage. In China, in the eighth century, it entered the realm of poetry as one of the polite amusements. The fifteenth century saw Japan ennoble it into a rel... - #9
Save:The Archer by Paulo Coelho is a short but impactful book that uses the art of archery as a metaphor to impart profound life lessons. The plot revolves around a former master archer named Tetsuya, who imparts his wisdom to a young boy seeking to master the art of archery. Through motivational aphorisms and insights, the book guides readers on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. The writing style is poetic, inspiring, and filled with deep wisdom that encourages readers to reflect on their own goals and dreams.
“Maybe he gave up, maybe he lost his courage, that doesn’t matter to me,” insisted the stranger. “But he cannot be considered to be the best archer in the country if he has abandoned his art. That’s w... - #10
Save:'The Temple of the Golden Pavilion' by Yukio Mishima is a novel based on true events, following the protagonist Mizoguchi, a Zen acolyte tormented by his pathological obsession with the Golden Pavilion. The book delves deep into Mizoguchi's mind, motivations, and destructive impulses, exploring themes of beauty, obsession, nihilism, and the harshness of life. Mishima's exceptional prose vividly portrays Mizoguchi's descent into madness, drawing parallels with a real-life arson incident at the Golden Temple in 1950.
The narrative unfolds through Mizoguchi's eyes, a troubled character struggling with a severe stutter and an unattainable ideal of beauty. Mishima's writing style immerses the reader in a world of obsession and destruction, exploring the inner workings of a sick individual and prompting self-reflection on the nature of beauty and perfection. The book offers a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of Mizoguchi's existential journey, culminating in a disturbing and poignant tale of obsession and tragedy.
My birthplace was a lonely cape that projects into the Sea of Japan northeast of Maizuru. Father, however, was not born there, but at Shiraku in the eastern suburbs of Maizuru. He was urged to join th...
