Books Like...
'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.
If you liked The Way of Zen, here are the top 100 books to read next:
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Save:'The Heart of the Buddha's Teaching' by Thich Nhat Hanh is a comprehensive guide to the core teachings of Buddhism presented in a clear, understandable, and non-preachy manner. It serves as an introduction to Buddhist ideas, covering significant teachings such as the Four Noble Truths, the Noble Eightfold Path, the Three Doors of Liberation, the Three Dharma Seals, and the Seven Factors of Awakening. Thich Nhat Hanh imparts wisdom about the nature of suffering, compassion, love, and joy, emphasizing their role in enlightenment. His writing style is described as modern, down-to-earth, and easy to read, making complex Buddhist concepts accessible to readers of all backgrounds.
Buddha was not a god. He was a human being like you and me, and he suffered just as we do. If we go to the Buddha with our hearts open, he will look at us, his eyes filled with compassion, and say, "B... 'Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind: Informal Talks on Zen Meditation and Practice' by Shunryu Suzuki is a collection of informal talks on Zen meditation and practice, providing insights into the Zen mindset of Right Practice, Right Attitude, and Right Understanding. The author's writing style is clear and concise, focusing on mindfulness and everyday practice rather than enlightenment. Suzuki Roshi presents the basics of Zen from the details of posture and breathing in zazen to the perception of nonduality in a way that resonates with the joy of insight.
offers a deep look into the Zen philosophy, emphasizing living in the moment and having a beginner's mind. It encourages readers to approach everything as if it were new and to be open to learning continuously. Suzuki's teachings touch on the essence of mind, big mind, and the oneness with the universe, guiding readers towards understanding the Zen way of life and practice.
Now I would like to talk about our zazen posture. When you sit in the full lotus position, your left foot is on your right thigh, and your right foot is on your left thigh. When we cross our legs like...- #3
Save:Last evening, here in Topeka, as one of the journeyers on a path, a very, very old path, the path of consciousness, I, in a sense, met with the Explorers Club to tell about the geography I had been ma...The spiritual leader provides insight into the nature of consciousness, reincarnation, desires, and attachment
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Save:'Become What You Are' by Alan W. Watts is a collection of essays that delve into various aspects of life, spirituality, and philosophy. The book aims to guide readers towards a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. Through his eloquent writing style, Watts explores complex topics such as Eastern philosophies, the nature of reality, and the importance of living in the present moment. Readers are taken on a thought-provoking journey filled with wisdom and insights, challenging them to question their beliefs and perceptions.
Watts' writing style is described as engaging, thought-provoking, and at times, challenging to grasp. Despite the occasional wordiness, his ability to distill profound wisdom into concise essays is appreciated by readers. The book encourages introspection and self-discovery, urging readers to contemplate their existence, beliefs, and place in the universe. Watts' unique blend of humor, intellect, and spiritual insights makes 'Become What You Are' a compelling read for those seeking enlightenment and a deeper connection to themselves.
AS THE TITLE SUGGESTS, BECOME WHAT YOU ARE is a collection of Alan Watts’s writings that touch on the dilemma of the person who seeks his or her true self, a quest so often undertaken at the expense o... 'The Wisdom of Insecurity: A Message for an Age of Anxiety' by Alan W. Watts is a profound exploration of man's quest for psychological security and spiritual certainty in the realms of religion and philosophy. The book underlines the importance of acknowledging the uncertainty and vulnerability of human life, arguing that our insecurities stem from our desperate need to find stability. Watts suggests that salvation and sanity lie in embracing the present moment and living fully in the now, rather than trying to grasp onto an illusion of security. Through a mix of Eastern philosophy, scientific backing, and a clear distinction between faith and belief, Watts presents thought-provoking ideas on how to navigate the complexities of life and find inner peace.
Every book is a journey, but this one aims to travel everywhere and nowhere. It begins in a state of anxiety, which few people want to dwell on. It punches holes in shared belief and treats sacred thi...- #6
Save:'Be Here Now' by Ram Dass, Richard Alpert is a transformative book that chronicles Ram Dass' journey from a Harvard psychiatrist to a spiritual seeker in India. The book is a blend of autobiography, yogic philosophy, and practical advice for spiritual growth. It includes sections like a Cookbook for a Spiritual Life, offering guidance on yoga, meditation, and finding one's true self. The writing style is described as a mix of psychedelic imagery, unique layouts, and profound messages that encourage readers to live in the present moment and embrace spiritual evolution.
Imagine feeling more love from someone than you have ever known. You’re being loved even more than your mother loved you when you were an infant, more than you were ever loved by your father, your chi... 'Buddhism: The Religion of No-Religion' by Alan W. Watts is a philosophical exploration of Buddhism and Zen Buddhism in particular. It is described as an elegant, short, and sweet introduction to Buddhism, providing readers with a nice sense of what Buddhism is all about. is praised for its ability to simplify complex concepts and present them in a clear and understandable manner. Alan Watts is noted for his wit, humor, and insight, which are reminiscent of his famous lectures, making the book a valuable resource for those interested in Zen philosophy or seeking spiritual enlightenment.
Inorder to introduce Buddhism, it is necessary to remember the whole background of the worldview of India and study Indian cosmology, just as you would have to study the Ptolemaic cosmology and worldv...'The Book on the Taboo Against Knowing Who You Are' by Alan W. Watts is a thought-provoking exploration of Eastern philosophies, particularly Vedantic philosophy, presented in a modern and accessible manner. The book challenges the notion of the separate ego and delves into the concept of oneness, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all beings. Through a series of essays, Watts encourages readers to question their understanding of self and reality, inviting them to contemplate fundamental philosophical questions about existence and identity. The writing style is described as witty, insightful, and engaging, with a blend of profound truths and social commentary characteristic of the 1960s hippie movement.
JUST WHAT should a young man or woman know in order to be "in the know"? Is there, in other words, some inside information, some special taboo, some real lowdown on life and existence that most parent...- #9
Save:The 'Tao Te Ching' by Lao Tzu is a collection of poems centered around Taoist philosophy, offering simple yet profound advice for living a harmonious and peaceful life. The book is filled with ancient wisdom that encourages readers to contemplate and reflect on the deeper meanings of existence. The writing style is described as poetic, thought-provoking, and multi-dimensional, providing readers with insights that slow down the pace of modern life and inspire serenity.
Must I fear what others fear? Should I fear desolation when there is abundance? Should I fear darkness when that light is shining everywhere? Nonsense! The people of this world are steeped in their me... '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...
