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Buddhism for Beginners: Learn the Way of the Buddha & Take Your First Steps on the Noble Path

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Buddhism is one of the world’s oldest spiritual traditions — having existed for more than 2500 years. It’s currently practiced by more than 480 million people all across the globe.

While countless religions have been abandoned through the centuries, the insights and practices of Buddhism are still carried on today in every corner of the world.

In this beginner’s guide, we will provide the basic outlines of the understanding of the world that informs Buddhist practice. Key concepts and terms will be introduced one by one. In this way, it will be easier to grasp the way Buddhists see the world and the nature of human existence.

This is vital to learn if you aim to walk the path yourself. Understanding key concepts – enlightenment, true self, the nature of reality, and the causes of suffering – are fundamental to guiding meditation practice and a Buddhist way of life.



And more!

123 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 25, 2018

331 people are currently reading
184 people want to read

About the author

Luna Sidana

17 books3 followers

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5 stars
177 (52%)
4 stars
111 (32%)
3 stars
39 (11%)
2 stars
8 (2%)
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
Profile Image for Lakhan.
71 reviews5 followers
March 18, 2021
Brief overview on some of the basic principles and beliefs for Buddhism. Including the three marks of existence, four noble truths, five precepts, eightfold path and the three poisons.
Liked the view on accepting impermanence in our life and short guides for mantras/meditations.
Profile Image for Denise Morris.
8 reviews
January 12, 2020
Great Read

I am enjoying learning the principles of Buddhism. As a counselor, I can point out how many theories and concepts in counseling psychology were interpreted and used by both traditional and modern day practitioners. It makes me appreciate what I do even more. It also allows me to appreciate myself as I practice gratitude toward others.
Profile Image for Paul.
225 reviews8 followers
October 1, 2021
A very brief, very accesible overview of Buddhist philosophy and practice. Explains key concepts such as impermanence, not-self, Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path nice and clearly. There isn’t much on the differences between different Buddhist schools, e.g. Mahayana vs. Theravada vs. Vajrayana, but these differences are not so important for a beginner. Plus this book is free to download so I cannot complain.
1 review
July 5, 2023
A great start

This book is a great start for people who are looking into finding out information about Buddhism. I have been interested for about a week now. I’m not sure with the let me to the path but I am happy that I came across this book. I am now looking up some temples in my area to move forward. I highly recommend this book for anyone who just want to get some information.
Profile Image for avery.
206 reviews
September 4, 2023
When I can’t sleep, I have been trying to read something about various religions. I believe this is the second or third one I have done. Buddhism has always interested me, so this book was enjoyable from beginning to end. I learned a lot, and will definitely incorporate some of the practices into my day-to-day life :)
6 reviews1 follower
March 18, 2019
Wow, excellent overview of Buddism!

I appreciated the simplicity of explanations and the thoughtful historical information. I gained valuable insight into Buddhist traditions and training techniques.

48 reviews1 follower
Read
December 27, 2021
An easy introduction which I enjoyed and found informative. It is a subject that one can dive into or float of the surface of, and I found written accordingly. It was informative and factual.
Thanks Luna Sidana
2 reviews
February 13, 2022
helpful

I have been meditating and heard references to Buddhism. I like the idea of treating everyone with compassion. I appreciate knowing what I, as a senior individual, am capable of making some small positive influence on our hurting world.
488 reviews3 followers
February 24, 2022
A very straightforward overview of the basic ideas of Buddhism. I have quibbling complaints, wish there was more focus on certain aspects and less on others, but overall it’s a nice intro. Nice read in these trying times, and one of the more actionable books I think I’ve read.
Profile Image for Caerol.
93 reviews16 followers
June 25, 2023
This is the first book that I read about the basics of Buddhism. It should be a quick read. I’m now interested in reading more about Buddhism, mindfulness, meditation etc. there’s always something to learn. Practicing is a tall order.
Profile Image for Alexandra.
1 review
March 3, 2024
Easy read and very informative for it's length. I am by no means a fast reader but managed to finish this book in a day.
This was enough to give me the basic knowledge I was looking for regarding Buddhism.
Profile Image for Sophie.
80 reviews
September 25, 2025
A topic I've been intrigued by for a while, this was an excellent, very informative book.
The author makes the information digestible and easy to understand, without diluting the original message.
A really great introductory book on a very interesting topic!
Profile Image for Cole Bellon.
17 reviews2 followers
July 13, 2018
An excellent primer on Buddhism. Easy to read and packed with good, basic info.
Profile Image for Tim Davey.
Author 3 books
January 6, 2019
A great beginning

This book is very easy to read and takes the confusion out trying to understand the complexities of Buddhism. A great place to start my search.
4 reviews
March 5, 2019
Loved it

Great read. Buddhism is the best way to experience a calm mind, anyone interested in the dharma, make this your first step.
Profile Image for aiyana.
12 reviews1 follower
July 10, 2020
Answered almost all the questions I had about the meanings of dharma and sutras by giving me basic information ,sort of repetitive but I get it . Namaste
19 reviews
July 28, 2020
Short book that is well paced and truly provides an introduction to Buddhism.
8 reviews
October 19, 2020
Very informative

If you are seeking insight as to what Buddhism is, this is a wonderful resource to a novice. It explains in easy to understand language for beginners.
1 review
October 19, 2020
Beginners Guide to Buddhism

Very easy read, and gives a good foundation for those who are interested in learning more about Buddhism and the practice.
Profile Image for Cortland Bell.
50 reviews
December 24, 2020
Gave the clear basics to one of the oldest teachings in the world. I loved the back story and definitely can see the principles of Buddhism being a great asset.
1 review
April 11, 2022
Excellent Guide

I love the way it explains Buddhism and instructs individuals on how to go about finding peace in oneself and exerting that peace towards others. Highly recommend.
Profile Image for R. Cobb.
Author 9 books5 followers
March 7, 2023
Nice quick read

I love how this book to these concepts and condensed them down to be more easily understood. If you're into religion or becoming Buddhist, this is a good start
1 review
March 11, 2024
Insightful

A great read for someone who wishes to start on the path of the Buddhist. Great information on the core basics of Buddhism.
Profile Image for Jesse Price.
18 reviews
December 29, 2024
This book was a little hard to understand at some points, but in all a good summary of what Buddhism is all about. Definitely a good read if you are wondering what Buddhists believe.
Profile Image for Petra  Y Cooper .
19 reviews
May 22, 2025
Easy to understand

It is easily digestible. Terms broken down with a decent amount of history. Explanations straight to the point. Would recommend.
Profile Image for Jack O'Rourke.
Author 3 books3 followers
December 3, 2018
I've heard bits and pieces of Buddhist thought and practice before, and this book seems to do a good job of giving an overview of three schools of practice, and outlines the common, principal precepts that guide all three. The elements of compassion, impermanence, and meditation stand out in the discourses.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews

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