Full Simplicity: The Art of Renunciation and Letting Go

by Kim Allen

In the Buddhist tradition, renunciation typically includes leaving the household life. What does this mean for laypeople who devote their lives fully to the Dharma? Kim Allen provides an invaluable guide to renunciation as a path for lay Buddhist practitioners. In early Buddhist teachings, renunciation is associated with ease, harmony, and wisdom. For both monastics and laypeople, it provides a broad and deep underpinning to the entire Buddhist path, such that engagement with it draws forth our most beautiful qualities and supports the letting go that leads to Awakening. The book deftly combines sutta analysis, clear commentary and interpretation, and real-world examples from modern practitioners’ lives.

Genres: Spirituality

170 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 8, 2023

Reviews

[Chris Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was book was a turning point in my practice. A retreat with Kim Allen, and this book, were perfectly timed for me. After many years of struggling with complicated relationships with all types of sticky life patterns, this book, and Kim's words over the years of meditating with her, provided guidance for how to develop a balance of healthy renunciation. For fans of Bhikku Anālayo's books, you'll feel at home here, though this is perhaps a bit lighter on the scholarly style.

[Weylin Rice · Rating 5 out of 5]

a clear & friendly invitation

For sincere Buddhist practitioners and anyone considering a contemplative lifestyle. Making life simpler, more wholesome, can bring peace, happiness and wisdom. In this time of intense climate change, this guide to renunciation of the superfluous is an important teaching.

[Louise Wang · Rating 5 out of 5]

Completed the reading along a series of 4 classes taught by Kim Allen. Registration through Insight Meditation Center. Felt very much supported on this journey to seeing more clearly through letting go of what is unnecessary-- material good, mental thinking (such as complaining), and identities (such as 'I am not anger.')

[Jeff Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Essential life wisdom with thorough scholarship.