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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 :)
I appreciated the simplicity of explanations and the thoughtful historical information. I gained valuable insight into Buddhist traditions and training techniques.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
A very basic and brief but well-written introduction to buddhism. Great as a first step to see if you want to explore the teachings of the Buddha further.
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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.