The Laws of Great Enlightenment: Always Walk with Buddha

by Ryuho Okawa

Constant self-blame for past mistakes, setbacks, or failures, and being unable to forgive others for the pain and hardship that they have caused us, are inner pains that we may not easily overcome. Through the power of enlightenment, which author Ryuho Okawa explains in modern and accessible terms, we can learn to forgive ourselves and others, overcome life's problems, and courageously endeavor a brighter future. The Laws of Great Enlightenment addresses the core problems of life that people often struggle with and offers concrete advice on how to overcome them based on spiritual truths. Chapter 1 extends guidance to people who may be struggling to forgive themselves for past mistakes and delicately frames how we can master our mind to cease living at the mercy of our emotions. Chapter 2 offers counsel to those who have hardships that they want to escape from and are struggling with thoughts of suicide and depression. Okawa teaches that by focusing our mind on living better lives, instead of blaming our imperfections or the flaws of others, we can heal our inner anguish. Chapter 3 teaches how we can learn to balance both our spiritual and worldly skill, so that we may live in tandem with spiritual values in a modern society. Chapter 4 illustrates the beautiful world of enlightenment through the lens of an enlightened person. Visualize a world where everyone is connected with one another and to the great universe. By deepening our understanding of the inner world, it is certain to bring forth the joy of cultivating a deeper spiritual awareness. Chapter 5 offers sound advice for achieving inner peace. Through the practice of self-reflection, meditation and prayer, we can feel oneness with the Great Being and find peace in any given circumstance. By reading this book, you will be able to find positive and profound meaning in your life and play a proactive role in creating a better world.

256 pages, Paperback

First published September 4, 2015

About the author

Ryuho Okawa is a renowned spiritual thinker, leader, and author in Japan with a simple goal: to help people find true happiness and create a better world. To date, Okawa’s books have sold over 100 million copies worldwide and been translated into 31 languages. His books address vital issues such as how our thoughts influence reality, the nature of love, and the path to enlightenment. In 1986, Okawa founded Happy Science as a spiritual movement dedicated to bringing greater happiness to humankind by uniting religions and cultures to live in harmony. Happy Science has grown rapidly from its beginnings in Japan to a worldwide organization. The spiritual workshops Happy Science offers are open to people of all faiths and walks of life and are rooted in the same simple principles of happiness that inspired Okawa’s own spiritual awakening. Okawa is compassionately committed to the spiritual growth of others; in addition to writing and publishing books, he continues to give talks around the world.

Reviews

[Susie · Rating 2 out of 5]

*I received a free digital ARC via NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*

More miss than hit

When I saw this book available on NetGalley, I decided to give it a shot. I have a basic knowledge of Buddhist principles so, whilst I’ve read a handful of self-help books from different perspectives, I was intrigued as to what this angle would give.

From the off, I was disappointed. Now, don’t get me wrong – there are some interesting points and ideas in here, plus some folkloric background used to give examples of good and bad thoughts and behaviour. But two things ruined this for me: firstly, the author’s over-confidence that he is the best one to pass on this advice; secondly, the repeated mentions of suicide. I actually didn’t realise how bad the problem of suicide was in Japan until I read this book, and that was not what I was reading it for!

Post reading, I’ve barely kept a hold of any of the actual useful tips that were to be found amongst these pages, all because of those points mentioned above.

If it wasn’t for the author’s arrogance, then perhaps there might have been more to find inside this book. But, there again, when I looked up the author afterwards on Goodreads and saw the other types of books that were written, I shouldn’t be so surprised at all.

Final rating: ★★☆☆☆ – Disliked

[Grace Gardner · Rating 2 out of 5]

I picked up this book becuase I was attracted to the title and subject. I knew nothing of the author or his background at that time. After perusing the table of contents and the first chapter, I Googled him out of curiousity, and learned that he started his own religion and associated political party in Japan, called “Happy Science.” I didn’t look too deeply into this, so I can’t say whether it’s genuine, completely wacky, or somewhere in between. However, with this added level of info, my attitude towards the book shifted and became more wary and skeptical.

As I progressed with the book, two conflicting impressions began to form. On the one hand, what the author says could be considered accurate according to Mahayana Buddhist teachings; on the other hand, he makes many claims that are difficult to accept, such as regarding spiritual forces and their powers, as well as making many judgements and pronouncments without providing much factual or philosophical grounding.

Part of the problem is that I don’t know who this book is for. Is it for the author’s followers? Is it for “beleivers,” or is it meant to establish belief? Is it for Buddhists, or a general audience? Just by picking it up and beginning to read, I can’t really tell. Perhaps because the book is a translation from the original Japanese, some things are lost in that translation, such as cultural context.

Additionally, it should be noted that the material for the book seems to be transcriptions from videotaped lectures given by the author. Chapter two, for example, says “Videotaped January 7, 2001.” So although the publication date for the book is 2014, the material within is much older.

Overall, the book lacked much deep thought or coherence, and did not retain my interest for long. Those interested in Buddhist teachings can find many better books on the subject, and unless one had a special interest in “Happy Science,” I would give this one a pass.

I recieved a review copy of this ebook from NetGalley at no cost.

[Richard Crater · Rating 3 out of 5]

There were many lessons in this book about living a peaceful and fulfilling life, including sections on forgiving ourselves and others. I didn't agree with all of the sections and theories, but just like any book on enlightenment I take note of the ones that resonate with me.

[Ashley · Rating 1 out of 5]

The author, in my opinion, seemed very conceited. Even the introduction was just riddled with an inflated sense of ego. This book is a huge NO from me.