The Still Point Dhammapada: Living the Buddha's Essential Teachings

by Geri Larkin

The Dhammapada is much loved by Buddhist practitioners as a simple and straightforward rendition of some of Buddha's core teachings, and is read daily by thousands of people. While there are many translations available, few have an inclusive – and lyrical – sensibility. In studying various versions of this sacred text, Larkin noted many discrepancies and embarked upon an entirely original translation. Each instalment gets tested at the Still Point Zen Buddhist Temple in Detroit, a remarkable Zen centre in the heart of one of the roughest neighbourhoods in the country. This small gift hardcover will have the appeal of the Thomas Byrom/Ram Dass edition, but will be made even more accessible with each chapter's introduction containing a powerful contemporary anecdote from the Still Point Temple community. This 'Downtown Dhammapada' will appeal not only to Buddhists, but to those who also appreciate beautifully rendered sacred texts as simply good reading.

Genres: Buddhism, Spirituality, Nonfiction, Religion

224 pages, Hardcover

First published April 1, 2003

Reviews

[Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

The words of the Buddha are beautifully accessible. And the author opened a temple in the Cass Corridor area of Detroit.

[Christopher · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a very nice interpetation of the Dhammapada. Following each section is an example how the members of the Still Point Buddhist center in Detroit followed the teachings.

[Demi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was told to browse through this book for inspirational quotes. What I gained was so much more. Still Point Dhammapada is a very clear and beautiful expression of the Buddha's teachings and the best thing of all, it is very accessible even to the audience of the 21st century. My favourite are the short stories from the Still Point centre. The honesty and warmth expressed in these pages has the same feeling of listening to a story from a fond Mother or beloved Grandfather. It's that gentle balance of heart and wisdom, which we all desperately need. From the Buddha & Zen, to our inner hearts. If there's one thing you do before you die, read this book!

[Carolyn Christopher · Rating 5 out of 5]

My very favorite version of the Dhamapada! Wonderful stories accompany each section to bring additional insight. Written in inclusive language as well which adds to its readability.

[Ellen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was recommended to me by a wise teacher at New York Insight Meditation Center in Manhattan, as a complement to the work we do in the weekly “Aging As A Spiritual Practice” sangha. The Buddha’s teachings are presented clearly, with the expected repetition and the unexpected use of both male and female pronouns.
What makes this offering an endearing and enlightening gift is the addition of illustrative stories from the Still Point Meditation Center in downtown Detroit. It is genuinely touching and inspiring to witness that sangha’s dedicated practice of mindfulness and loving kindness in the midst of poverty, violence, even hopelessness.

[Melissa Everly-kosek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful translation

Geri Larkin's translation of the Dhammapada is insightful, filled with modern language and egalitarian verbiage. She also ends each chapter with an anecdote from her Buddhist Sangha in Detroit, Michigan. The stories are very relevant and moving.

[Cherie · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I've read the Dhammapada before, I was able to relate much more to this version as it is full of Larkin's wit and insight. Really appreciated this book.

[Cory Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great little book that breaks up chapters of a modernized Dhammapada with stories from the Still Point sangha in Detroit.

[Jessica]

An interesting take on the Dhammapada and each "chapter" is followed up with a life experience to depict each lesson. Very easy to understand and, at times, humorous. A good attempt at being the everyday person's guide to buddha's words.

[Seth]

Gorgeous tale of an inner city sangha in Detriot with a street level translation of the words of the buddha...yay!!

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The stories with the translation were enjoyable but mostly I loved the translation of the text. It made the Dhammapada really accessible for someone who hasn't read it before.

[Lucky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent, urban reinterpretation of the Dhammapada.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a good approach to this classic text.