The Book of Zen: The Path to Inner Peace

by Eric Chaline

At first glance, Zen seems to be little more than a web of mystification and contradictions. We think, for instance, of Zen's famous koan, or saying, that presents the image of "one hand clapping". However, a deeper look into the Zen form of Buddhism shows even skeptical critics a rich path toward spiritual enlightenment and personal serenity. The Book of Zen offers a history and overview of Zen, as well as an introduction to its method and ideas. The author describes Buddhism's introduction to Japan, where the Zen form of Buddhism came into full flower. He also discusses Zen's main forms of expression--for instance, in Japanese calligraphy and pictorial art forms; in haiku poetry; in chanoyu or the tea ceremony; in ikebana or flower arrangement; and in the martial arts. Readers will also find an account of how Zen came to the West, first in the nineteenth century, then made a lasting impact on American and European culture in the mid-twentieth century. The volume concludes with advice on ways in which readers can incorporate Zen into their lives. This enlightening and enjoyable book is enhanced with more than 200 illustrations, most of them in color.

Genres: Buddhism, Zen, Religion, Nonfiction, Philosophy, History

128 pages, Hardcover

Published January 1, 2003

About the author

Author, journalist and editor, winner of the Lord Aberdare Prize, 2018

Reviews

[Bryan Jenks · Rating 4 out of 5]

I greatly enjoyed both the quality of the books pages, the lovely artwork within it, as well as a greater detail of the history and spread of Buddhism across the world.

I also really enjoyed the “is that so?” Koan. Equanimity in its purest form.

[Lovro Herbai · Rating 4 out of 5]

When it is time to dress, get dressed. When you must walk, walk. Do not concern yourself with becoming a Buddha, just be yourself. Though the fool may laugh at you, the wise man will understand.

[Jan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Handzaam, mooi geïllustreerd overzicht van de geschiedenis en hedendaagse vormen / uitingen van Zenboeddhisme.

[Samdaepicham · Rating 3 out of 5]

It’s not a bad book or anything I just didn’t know it would be a history on Buddhism and zen. I actually did enjoy learning about it.

[Greg · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first half explains the history of Buddhism and how it travelled from India to China and Japan and Korea. It sketches the various trends over the last 2500 years. The second half is more concrete and lists various methods for gaining enlightenment. I am a bit of a skeptic but I think there is a place for emptying the mind and gazing at the universe with minimal bias. I could never be a monk, but there are some insights into human consciousness that may be of help. Now, to understand the sound of one hand clapping...

[Harrison Large ラージ • ハリソン · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting, thorough book on the history of Zen Buddhism, from its history in India, China and Japan to its practices, doctrines and famous enlightened figures. Answered most questions I had on the subject and left me with a few things to evaluate about my own life.

[Hans Marijnissen]

Excellent introduction.

[Dustin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful picture book about the history, and practice of, Zen Buddhism.

[Lightwhisper · Rating 4 out of 5]

Um livro muito completo e prático sobre o Zen e todo o seu espiritualismo.

[Gianni Barros · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interessante introdução aos conceitos e história do budismo Zen.