Faces of Compassion: Classic Bodhisattva Archetypes and Their Modern Expression

by Taigen Dan Leighton, Joan Halifax (Foreword)

This wonderful book could also be artly titled "An Introduction to Mahayana Buddhism." From Ali to Gandhi, Dylan to Thoreau, and from Gertrude Stein to Mother Theresa, Faces of Compassion introduces us to enlightened beings, the bodhisattvas of Buddhist lore. They're not otherworldly gods with superhuman qualities, but shining examples of our own highest potential. Zen teacher and scholar Taigen Dan Leighton takes us through the ages to meet the people who have shaped history and society with their compassion and wisdom. Faces of Compassion emphasizes the universality of spiritual ideals, and the power each of us has to change our world.

Genres: Buddhism, Religion, Zen

320 pages, Paperback

First published March 25, 2003

Reviews

[Jon Ciliberto · Rating 4 out of 5]

Religious art’s purpose is, obviously, religious. Faces of Compassion, by Zen teacher Taigen Dan Leighton approaches iconography from this direction, and moves from the often distanced, scientific approach to images commonly found in volumes on Buddhist art to engaging directly the religious efficacy of observing and using images. Images in Buddhist art are a means, not an end. His approach is fresh, and of great usefulness to modern readers: by seeking for archetypes in real, familiar, modern day individuals, he provides those seeking models for a compassionate live ready and understandable guides. Full review at http://buddhistartnews.wordpress.com/...