The Buddha before Buddhism

The Buddha before Buddhism

Author: Gil Fronsdal

Publisher: Shambhala Publications

Published: 2016-11-29

Total Pages: 193

ISBN-13: 1611803241

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This easy-to-understand translation of one of the earliest surviving Buddhist texts offers a pathway to awakening that is simple, straightforward, and free of religious doctrine One of the earliest of all Buddhist texts, the Atthakavagga, or “Book of Eights,” is a remarkable document, not only because it comes from the earliest strain of the literature—before the Buddha, as the title suggests, came to be thought of as a “Buddhist”—but also because its approach to awakening is so simple and free of adherence to any kind of ideology. Instead the Atthakavagga points to a direct and simple approach for attaining peace without requiring the adherence to doctrine. The value of the teachings it contains is not in the profundity of their philosophy or in their authority as scripture; rather, the value is found in the results they bring to those who live by them. Instead of doctrines to be believed, the “Book of Eights” describes means or practices for realizing peace. Gil Fronsdal’s rigorous translation with commentary reveals the text to be of interest not only to Buddhists, but also to the ever-growing demographic of spiritual-but-not-religious, who seek a spiritual life outside the structures of religion.


Book Synopsis The Buddha before Buddhism by : Gil Fronsdal

Download or read book The Buddha before Buddhism written by Gil Fronsdal and published by Shambhala Publications. This book was released on 2016-11-29 with total page 193 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This easy-to-understand translation of one of the earliest surviving Buddhist texts offers a pathway to awakening that is simple, straightforward, and free of religious doctrine One of the earliest of all Buddhist texts, the Atthakavagga, or “Book of Eights,” is a remarkable document, not only because it comes from the earliest strain of the literature—before the Buddha, as the title suggests, came to be thought of as a “Buddhist”—but also because its approach to awakening is so simple and free of adherence to any kind of ideology. Instead the Atthakavagga points to a direct and simple approach for attaining peace without requiring the adherence to doctrine. The value of the teachings it contains is not in the profundity of their philosophy or in their authority as scripture; rather, the value is found in the results they bring to those who live by them. Instead of doctrines to be believed, the “Book of Eights” describes means or practices for realizing peace. Gil Fronsdal’s rigorous translation with commentary reveals the text to be of interest not only to Buddhists, but also to the ever-growing demographic of spiritual-but-not-religious, who seek a spiritual life outside the structures of religion.


The Buddha before Buddhism

The Buddha before Buddhism

Author: Gil Fronsdal

Publisher: Shambhala Publications

Published: 2016-11-29

Total Pages: 160

ISBN-13: 0834840421

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In the tradition of the best-selling Dhammapada: a translation with commentary of one of the earliest of the surviving Buddhist texts, which reveals the teachings to be remarkably simple and free of religious trappings. One of the earliest of all Buddhist texts, the Atthakavagga, or "Book of Eights," is a remarkable document, not only because it comes from the earliest strain of the literature--before the Buddha, as the title suggests, came to be thought of as a "Buddhist"--but also because its approach to awakening is so simple and free of adherence to any kind of ideology. Instead the Atthakavaggapoints to a direct and simple approach for attaining peace without requiring the adherence to doctrine. The value of the teachings it contains is not in the profundity of their philosophy or in their authority as scripture; rather, the value is found in the results they bring to those who live by them. Instead of doctrines to be believed, the Book of Eights describes means or practices for realizing peace. Gil Fronsdal's rigorous translation with commentary reveals the text to be of interest not only to Buddhists, but also to the ever-growing demographic of spiritual-but-not-religious, who seek a spiritual life outside the structures of religion.


Book Synopsis The Buddha before Buddhism by : Gil Fronsdal

Download or read book The Buddha before Buddhism written by Gil Fronsdal and published by Shambhala Publications. This book was released on 2016-11-29 with total page 160 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: In the tradition of the best-selling Dhammapada: a translation with commentary of one of the earliest of the surviving Buddhist texts, which reveals the teachings to be remarkably simple and free of religious trappings. One of the earliest of all Buddhist texts, the Atthakavagga, or "Book of Eights," is a remarkable document, not only because it comes from the earliest strain of the literature--before the Buddha, as the title suggests, came to be thought of as a "Buddhist"--but also because its approach to awakening is so simple and free of adherence to any kind of ideology. Instead the Atthakavaggapoints to a direct and simple approach for attaining peace without requiring the adherence to doctrine. The value of the teachings it contains is not in the profundity of their philosophy or in their authority as scripture; rather, the value is found in the results they bring to those who live by them. Instead of doctrines to be believed, the Book of Eights describes means or practices for realizing peace. Gil Fronsdal's rigorous translation with commentary reveals the text to be of interest not only to Buddhists, but also to the ever-growing demographic of spiritual-but-not-religious, who seek a spiritual life outside the structures of religion.


The Buddha before Buddhism

The Buddha before Buddhism

Author: Gil Fronsdal

Publisher: Jaico Publishing House

Published: 2017-12-22

Total Pages: 192

ISBN-13: 938686729X

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WISDOM FROM THE EARLY TEACHINGS Don’t chase the past Or long for the future. The past is left behind; The future is not yet reached. For one who knows, who has no agitation, There is no karmic accumulation. —from ‘The Discourse on Being Violent’, The Book of Eights Gil Fronsdal’s The Buddha before Buddhism is an elegant translation of Buddhist poems from the Atthakavagga or The Book of Eights, which is believed to be part of the Buddha’s first teachings. In this anthology, reality is not divided into a conditioned, worldly realm and an unconditioned, transcendent realm far removed from ordinary human life, which is a deviation from the usual Buddhist texts. Instead, the teachings point to peace that can be found in this life, in this world. This collection of 16 poems points to a direct and simple approach for attaining peace without requiring an adherence to any specific ideology. In contrast to later Buddhist teachings that are predicated on the belief in rebirth, this book’s central theme is the joy that comes from recognizing and letting go of attachment to the illusory views that create suffering. Gil Fronsdal is co-teacher at the Insight Meditation Center in Redwood City, California. He received his PhD. in religious studies from Stanford University. He has published a highly praised translation of the Dhammapada, as well as two other books: The Issue at Hand and A Monastery Within.


Book Synopsis The Buddha before Buddhism by : Gil Fronsdal

Download or read book The Buddha before Buddhism written by Gil Fronsdal and published by Jaico Publishing House. This book was released on 2017-12-22 with total page 192 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: WISDOM FROM THE EARLY TEACHINGS Don’t chase the past Or long for the future. The past is left behind; The future is not yet reached. For one who knows, who has no agitation, There is no karmic accumulation. —from ‘The Discourse on Being Violent’, The Book of Eights Gil Fronsdal’s The Buddha before Buddhism is an elegant translation of Buddhist poems from the Atthakavagga or The Book of Eights, which is believed to be part of the Buddha’s first teachings. In this anthology, reality is not divided into a conditioned, worldly realm and an unconditioned, transcendent realm far removed from ordinary human life, which is a deviation from the usual Buddhist texts. Instead, the teachings point to peace that can be found in this life, in this world. This collection of 16 poems points to a direct and simple approach for attaining peace without requiring an adherence to any specific ideology. In contrast to later Buddhist teachings that are predicated on the belief in rebirth, this book’s central theme is the joy that comes from recognizing and letting go of attachment to the illusory views that create suffering. Gil Fronsdal is co-teacher at the Insight Meditation Center in Redwood City, California. He received his PhD. in religious studies from Stanford University. He has published a highly praised translation of the Dhammapada, as well as two other books: The Issue at Hand and A Monastery Within.


The Historical Buddha

The Historical Buddha

Author: Hans Wolfgang Schumann

Publisher: Motilal Banarsidass Publ.

Published: 2004

Total Pages: 306

ISBN-13: 9788120818170

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No man has had a greater inflience on the spiritual development of his people than Siddartha Gautama. Born in India in the sixth century BC into a nation hungry for spiritual experience, he developed a religious and moral teaching that, to this day, brings comfort and peace to all who practise it. This comprehensive biography examines the social, religious and political conditions that gave rise to Buddhism as we now know it.


Book Synopsis The Historical Buddha by : Hans Wolfgang Schumann

Download or read book The Historical Buddha written by Hans Wolfgang Schumann and published by Motilal Banarsidass Publ.. This book was released on 2004 with total page 306 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: No man has had a greater inflience on the spiritual development of his people than Siddartha Gautama. Born in India in the sixth century BC into a nation hungry for spiritual experience, he developed a religious and moral teaching that, to this day, brings comfort and peace to all who practise it. This comprehensive biography examines the social, religious and political conditions that gave rise to Buddhism as we now know it.


The First Discourse of the Buddha

The First Discourse of the Buddha

Author: Revatadhamma (Bhadanta.)

Publisher: Simon and Schuster

Published: 1997

Total Pages: 131

ISBN-13: 0861711041

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After enlightenment, the Buddha delivered his first discourse to five disciples in Deer Park, India. Known as the Four Noble Truths, this lesson forms the foundation and essence of all the Buddha's teachings. It contains all the necessary information and instruction for us to become free from suffering and gain insight into the truth of enlightenment. The First Discourse of the Buddha includes a history of the Buddha's life, background on Buddhism, and a contemporary translation of and commentary on the Four Noble Truths.


Book Synopsis The First Discourse of the Buddha by : Revatadhamma (Bhadanta.)

Download or read book The First Discourse of the Buddha written by Revatadhamma (Bhadanta.) and published by Simon and Schuster. This book was released on 1997 with total page 131 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: After enlightenment, the Buddha delivered his first discourse to five disciples in Deer Park, India. Known as the Four Noble Truths, this lesson forms the foundation and essence of all the Buddha's teachings. It contains all the necessary information and instruction for us to become free from suffering and gain insight into the truth of enlightenment. The First Discourse of the Buddha includes a history of the Buddha's life, background on Buddhism, and a contemporary translation of and commentary on the Four Noble Truths.


What the Buddha Taught

What the Buddha Taught

Author: Walpola Rahula

Publisher: Open Road + Grove/Atlantic

Published: 2007-12-01

Total Pages: 310

ISBN-13: 0802198104

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“A terrific introduction to the Buddha’s teachings.” —Paul Blairon, California Literary Review This indispensable volume is a lucid and faithful account of the Buddha’s teachings. “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.” This edition contains a selection of illustrative texts from the Suttas and the Dhammapada (specially translated by the author), sixteen illustrations, and a bibliography, glossary, and index. “[Rahula’s] succinct, clear overview of Buddhist concepts has never been surpassed. It is the standard.” —Library Journal


Book Synopsis What the Buddha Taught by : Walpola Rahula

Download or read book What the Buddha Taught written by Walpola Rahula and published by Open Road + Grove/Atlantic. This book was released on 2007-12-01 with total page 310 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: “A terrific introduction to the Buddha’s teachings.” —Paul Blairon, California Literary Review This indispensable volume is a lucid and faithful account of the Buddha’s teachings. “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.” This edition contains a selection of illustrative texts from the Suttas and the Dhammapada (specially translated by the author), sixteen illustrations, and a bibliography, glossary, and index. “[Rahula’s] succinct, clear overview of Buddhist concepts has never been surpassed. It is the standard.” —Library Journal


Great Disciples of the Buddha

Great Disciples of the Buddha

Author: Nyanaponika (Thera)

Publisher: Simon and Schuster

Published: 2003-06-15

Total Pages: 450

ISBN-13: 0861713818

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This book is a compilation of twenty-four life stories of the closest and most eminent of the Buddha's personal disciples.


Book Synopsis Great Disciples of the Buddha by : Nyanaponika (Thera)

Download or read book Great Disciples of the Buddha written by Nyanaponika (Thera) and published by Simon and Schuster. This book was released on 2003-06-15 with total page 450 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book is a compilation of twenty-four life stories of the closest and most eminent of the Buddha's personal disciples.


The Everything Buddhism Book

The Everything Buddhism Book

Author: Arnie Kozak

Publisher: Simon and Schuster

Published: 2010-12-18

Total Pages: 304

ISBN-13: 1440511632

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"My religion is very simple. My religion is kindness." --Dalai Lama That's easy for the Dalai Lama to say--but for the rest of us, understanding this mysterious, multilayered faith can be very difficult. With this updated and revised edition of the classic Buddhist primer, you can delve into the profound principles of nonviolence, mindfulness, and self-awareness. From Tibetan Buddhism to Zen, you'll explore the traditions of all branches of Buddhism, including: The life of Buddha and his continuing influence throughout the world A revealing survey of the definitive Buddhist texts What the Sutras say about education, marriage, sex, and death Faith-fueled social protest movements in Tibet, Burma, and elsewhere Buddhist art, poetry, architecture, calligraphy, and landscaping The proven physiological effects of meditation and other Buddhist practices The growing impact of Buddhism on modern American culture In this guide, you'll discover the deceptively simple truths of this enigmatic religion. Most important, you learn how to apply the tenets of Buddhism to your daily life--and achieve clarity and inner peace in the process.


Book Synopsis The Everything Buddhism Book by : Arnie Kozak

Download or read book The Everything Buddhism Book written by Arnie Kozak and published by Simon and Schuster. This book was released on 2010-12-18 with total page 304 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: "My religion is very simple. My religion is kindness." --Dalai Lama That's easy for the Dalai Lama to say--but for the rest of us, understanding this mysterious, multilayered faith can be very difficult. With this updated and revised edition of the classic Buddhist primer, you can delve into the profound principles of nonviolence, mindfulness, and self-awareness. From Tibetan Buddhism to Zen, you'll explore the traditions of all branches of Buddhism, including: The life of Buddha and his continuing influence throughout the world A revealing survey of the definitive Buddhist texts What the Sutras say about education, marriage, sex, and death Faith-fueled social protest movements in Tibet, Burma, and elsewhere Buddhist art, poetry, architecture, calligraphy, and landscaping The proven physiological effects of meditation and other Buddhist practices The growing impact of Buddhism on modern American culture In this guide, you'll discover the deceptively simple truths of this enigmatic religion. Most important, you learn how to apply the tenets of Buddhism to your daily life--and achieve clarity and inner peace in the process.


The Concept of the Buddha

The Concept of the Buddha

Author: Guang Xing

Publisher: Psychology Press

Published: 2005

Total Pages: 270

ISBN-13: 041533344X

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Guang Xing gives an analysis of one of the fundamental Mahayana Buddhist teachings, namely the three bodies of the Buddha (the trikaya Theory), which is considered the foundation of Mahayana philosophy. He examines how and why the philosophical concept of three bodies was formed, particularly the Sambhogakaya, which is the Buddha to be worshipped by all Mayahanists. Written in an accessible way, this work is an outstanding research text for students and scholars of Mayahana Buddhism and anyone interested in Buddhist philosophy.


Book Synopsis The Concept of the Buddha by : Guang Xing

Download or read book The Concept of the Buddha written by Guang Xing and published by Psychology Press. This book was released on 2005 with total page 270 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Guang Xing gives an analysis of one of the fundamental Mahayana Buddhist teachings, namely the three bodies of the Buddha (the trikaya Theory), which is considered the foundation of Mahayana philosophy. He examines how and why the philosophical concept of three bodies was formed, particularly the Sambhogakaya, which is the Buddha to be worshipped by all Mayahanists. Written in an accessible way, this work is an outstanding research text for students and scholars of Mayahana Buddhism and anyone interested in Buddhist philosophy.


A Monastery Within

A Monastery Within

Author: Gil Fronsdal

Publisher:

Published: 2010

Total Pages: 108

ISBN-13: 9780984509218

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Inspired by his years of Buddhist monastic life, Gil Fronsdal has written these warm-hearted stories as part of the tradition of teaching through storytelling. These are tales of transformation and spiritual growth. They delight and challenge as they express different facets of the Buddhist path to liberation in familiar, yet fresh and engaging, ways. These stories can be reread often, each time supporting new reflec- tions on the spiritual life and the possibility of each person awakening to the kindness, clarity and insight available to all of us. A Monastery Within points to how each person can build an inner home for the awakened life.


Book Synopsis A Monastery Within by : Gil Fronsdal

Download or read book A Monastery Within written by Gil Fronsdal and published by . This book was released on 2010 with total page 108 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Inspired by his years of Buddhist monastic life, Gil Fronsdal has written these warm-hearted stories as part of the tradition of teaching through storytelling. These are tales of transformation and spiritual growth. They delight and challenge as they express different facets of the Buddhist path to liberation in familiar, yet fresh and engaging, ways. These stories can be reread often, each time supporting new reflec- tions on the spiritual life and the possibility of each person awakening to the kindness, clarity and insight available to all of us. A Monastery Within points to how each person can build an inner home for the awakened life.