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Approaching the Buddhist Path
The first volume in a multivolume collection presenting the Dalai Lama’s comprehensive explanation of the Buddhist path—now in paperback!
His Holiness the Dalai Lama has been publicly teaching Buddhism for decades. This series collects his presentations of every step of the path to enlightenment, compiled and coauthored by one of his chief Western disciples, the American nun Thubten Chodron.
The Buddha wanted his students to investigate, to see for themselves whether what he said was true. As a student of the Buddha, the Dalai Lama promotes the same spirit of investigation, and as the rich tradition of the Buddha makes its way into new lands and cultures, His Holiness has recognized that new approaches are needed to allow seekers in the West to experience the relevance of the liberating message in their own lives. Such an approach cannot assume listeners are free from doubt and already have faith in Buddhism’s basic tenets. The Library of Wisdom and Compassion series, therefore, starts from the universal human wish for happiness and presents the dynamic nature of the mind. This first volume, now in paperback, also provides a wealth of reflections on Buddhist history and fundamentals, contemporary issues, and the Dalai Lama’s own personal experiences. It stands alone as an introduction to Buddhism but also provides a foundation for the systematic illumination of the path in the volumes to come.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama has been publicly teaching Buddhism for decades. This series collects his presentations of every step of the path to enlightenment, compiled and coauthored by one of his chief Western disciples, the American nun Thubten Chodron.
The Buddha wanted his students to investigate, to see for themselves whether what he said was true. As a student of the Buddha, the Dalai Lama promotes the same spirit of investigation, and as the rich tradition of the Buddha makes its way into new lands and cultures, His Holiness has recognized that new approaches are needed to allow seekers in the West to experience the relevance of the liberating message in their own lives. Such an approach cannot assume listeners are free from doubt and already have faith in Buddhism’s basic tenets. The Library of Wisdom and Compassion series, therefore, starts from the universal human wish for happiness and presents the dynamic nature of the mind. This first volume, now in paperback, also provides a wealth of reflections on Buddhist history and fundamentals, contemporary issues, and the Dalai Lama’s own personal experiences. It stands alone as an introduction to Buddhism but also provides a foundation for the systematic illumination of the path in the volumes to come.
360 pages, Paperback
Published October 20, 2020
332 people are currently reading
1002 people want to read
About the author
Dalai Lama XIV
1,555 books6,237 followersJetsun Jamphel Ngawang Lobsang Yeshe Tenzin Gyatso (born Lhamo Döndrub), the 14th Dalai Lama, is a practicing member of the Gelug School of Tibetan Buddhism and is influential as a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, the world's most famous Buddhist monk, and the leader of the exiled Tibetan government in India.
Tenzin Gyatso was the fifth of sixteen children born to a farming family. He was proclaimed the tulku (an Enlightened lama who has consciously decided to take rebirth) of the 13th Dalai Lama at the age of two.
On 17 November 1950, at the age of 15, he was enthroned as Tibet's ruler. Thus he became Tibet's most important political ruler just one month after the People's Republic of China's invasion of Tibet on 7 October 1950. In 1954, he went to Beijing to attempt peace talks with Mao Zedong and other leaders of the PRC. These talks ultimately failed.
After a failed uprising and the collapse of the Tibetan resistance movement in 1959, the Dalai Lama left for India, where he was active in establishing the Central Tibetan Administration (the Tibetan Government in Exile) and in seeking to preserve Tibetan culture and education among the thousands of refugees who accompanied him.
Tenzin Gyatso is a charismatic figure and noted public speaker. This Dalai Lama is the first to travel to the West. There, he has helped to spread Buddhism and to promote the concepts of universal responsibility, secular ethics, and religious harmony.
He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989, honorary Canadian citizenship in 2006, and the United States Congressional Gold Medal on 17 October 2007.
Tenzin Gyatso was the fifth of sixteen children born to a farming family. He was proclaimed the tulku (an Enlightened lama who has consciously decided to take rebirth) of the 13th Dalai Lama at the age of two.
On 17 November 1950, at the age of 15, he was enthroned as Tibet's ruler. Thus he became Tibet's most important political ruler just one month after the People's Republic of China's invasion of Tibet on 7 October 1950. In 1954, he went to Beijing to attempt peace talks with Mao Zedong and other leaders of the PRC. These talks ultimately failed.
After a failed uprising and the collapse of the Tibetan resistance movement in 1959, the Dalai Lama left for India, where he was active in establishing the Central Tibetan Administration (the Tibetan Government in Exile) and in seeking to preserve Tibetan culture and education among the thousands of refugees who accompanied him.
Tenzin Gyatso is a charismatic figure and noted public speaker. This Dalai Lama is the first to travel to the West. There, he has helped to spread Buddhism and to promote the concepts of universal responsibility, secular ethics, and religious harmony.
He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989, honorary Canadian citizenship in 2006, and the United States Congressional Gold Medal on 17 October 2007.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
January 18, 2018
Probably more like 3.5.
There is a vast amount of information in this book. It's the first volume in a multi-volume exploration of Buddhism. The first half (roughly) deals with a more historical look at Buddhism and the Buddhist texts and sects. The second half deals more with practices and development. I would definitely not recommend this book as a person's first book on Buddhism. Even with a more-than-average knowledge of Buddhism and the basic principles, I found this book to be a bit of a mountain to tackle. It is definitely more of a scholarly work that a book for the armchair enthusiast.
That being said, there is a wealth of good information in here, but it is best taken in small bites. Some of my favorite parts about this book:
-The Dalai Lama says several times that Buddhists should read and study the material themselves and that everyone who studies Buddhism should make their own decisions about what is true. This is refreshing compared to other religious and spiritual paths. For example, "The Buddha wanted us to test his teachings, not to accept them blindly." (p 266)
-I really enjoyed the chapter at the end where The Dalai Lama talks about Buddhism and how it relates to current social issues like gender equality, science, politics, etc.
-I really appreciate that The Dalai Lama himself still thinks of himself as a student almost more than a teacher and he makes it very clear that he does not feel that he is actually 'awakened' yet and that it will likely take him many lifetimes to reach this goal.
One of my favorite passages, that I think speaks so well on what Buddhism is: "We depend on others, and each of us contributes to the common good in his or her own way. The global economy means that we influence each other dramatically. If we human beings use the model of survival of the fittest and try to procure more and better resources for ourselves individually or for just our own group, we will sabotage our personal happiness and endanger the existence of human beings on this planet." (p 73)
There is a vast amount of information in this book. It's the first volume in a multi-volume exploration of Buddhism. The first half (roughly) deals with a more historical look at Buddhism and the Buddhist texts and sects. The second half deals more with practices and development. I would definitely not recommend this book as a person's first book on Buddhism. Even with a more-than-average knowledge of Buddhism and the basic principles, I found this book to be a bit of a mountain to tackle. It is definitely more of a scholarly work that a book for the armchair enthusiast.
That being said, there is a wealth of good information in here, but it is best taken in small bites. Some of my favorite parts about this book:
-The Dalai Lama says several times that Buddhists should read and study the material themselves and that everyone who studies Buddhism should make their own decisions about what is true. This is refreshing compared to other religious and spiritual paths. For example, "The Buddha wanted us to test his teachings, not to accept them blindly." (p 266)
-I really enjoyed the chapter at the end where The Dalai Lama talks about Buddhism and how it relates to current social issues like gender equality, science, politics, etc.
-I really appreciate that The Dalai Lama himself still thinks of himself as a student almost more than a teacher and he makes it very clear that he does not feel that he is actually 'awakened' yet and that it will likely take him many lifetimes to reach this goal.
One of my favorite passages, that I think speaks so well on what Buddhism is: "We depend on others, and each of us contributes to the common good in his or her own way. The global economy means that we influence each other dramatically. If we human beings use the model of survival of the fittest and try to procure more and better resources for ourselves individually or for just our own group, we will sabotage our personal happiness and endanger the existence of human beings on this planet." (p 73)
May 29, 2023
if you like this review, i now have website: www.michaelkamakana.com
230323: hard to rate as 92 others I have on bookshelf of phil-indic-buddhism so far, several also by the Dalai Lama. this is the first of his project for the library of wisdom and compassion, though because it was available at library, I started with three Samsara, Nirvana, and Buddha Nature, longer review. having read some buddhism otherwise, there may be nothing new here, but the attitude surprises me. this book reminds me that buddhism can be fruitfully examined as religion, before all else, as certainly then authors explore that interpretation. it is hard to rate not merely that I may not love religion, but philosophy is deeply intertwined...
hesitate to call this 'introductory' as there are sophisticated, serious, concepts deployed in asserting Buddhist thought, but there is an intellectual proselytising nature that seems to require simplifying assertions, though the authors avoid this. otherwise it makes me think of those buddhists less restrained, who are like evangelical Christians of my youth who were excited to argue with me the existence of God, the Devil, Adam and Eve etc...
this is a very friendly, non-denominational book, at least to me. he makes no claims of dominion of faith of any sort, or even non-faith, though there are passages explaining 'buddhist faith' as preceding wisdom. he is concerned to explain how buddhism is systematic approach. he shows logic and productive dispute...
more
What the Buddha Thought
Why Buddhism is True: The Science and Philosophy of Meditation and Enlightenment
Nietzsche and Buddhist Philosophy
Buddhist Philosophy: Essential Readings
Buddhist Philosophy: A Historical Analysis
Empty Words: Buddhist Philosophy and Cross-Cultural Interpretation
Buddhism as Philosophy: An Introduction
The Fundamental Wisdom of the Middle Way: Nāgārjuna's Mūlamadhyamakakārikā
Self, No Self?: Perspectives from Analytical, Phenomenological, and Indian Traditions
After Buddhism: Rethinking the Dharma for a Secular Age
Philosophers of Nothingness: An Essay on the Kyoto School
The Kyoto School
Nishida And Western Philosophy
Buddhism: A Philosophical Approach
What the Buddha Thought
Wisdom Beyond Words: The Buddhist Vision of Ultimate Reality
Buddhism as Philosophy: An Introduction
An Introduction to Buddhist Philosophy
Why I Am Not a Buddhist
Why I Am a Buddhist: No-Nonsense Buddhism with Red Meat and Whiskey
230323: hard to rate as 92 others I have on bookshelf of phil-indic-buddhism so far, several also by the Dalai Lama. this is the first of his project for the library of wisdom and compassion, though because it was available at library, I started with three Samsara, Nirvana, and Buddha Nature, longer review. having read some buddhism otherwise, there may be nothing new here, but the attitude surprises me. this book reminds me that buddhism can be fruitfully examined as religion, before all else, as certainly then authors explore that interpretation. it is hard to rate not merely that I may not love religion, but philosophy is deeply intertwined...
hesitate to call this 'introductory' as there are sophisticated, serious, concepts deployed in asserting Buddhist thought, but there is an intellectual proselytising nature that seems to require simplifying assertions, though the authors avoid this. otherwise it makes me think of those buddhists less restrained, who are like evangelical Christians of my youth who were excited to argue with me the existence of God, the Devil, Adam and Eve etc...
this is a very friendly, non-denominational book, at least to me. he makes no claims of dominion of faith of any sort, or even non-faith, though there are passages explaining 'buddhist faith' as preceding wisdom. he is concerned to explain how buddhism is systematic approach. he shows logic and productive dispute...
more
What the Buddha Thought
Why Buddhism is True: The Science and Philosophy of Meditation and Enlightenment
Nietzsche and Buddhist Philosophy
Buddhist Philosophy: Essential Readings
Buddhist Philosophy: A Historical Analysis
Empty Words: Buddhist Philosophy and Cross-Cultural Interpretation
Buddhism as Philosophy: An Introduction
The Fundamental Wisdom of the Middle Way: Nāgārjuna's Mūlamadhyamakakārikā
Self, No Self?: Perspectives from Analytical, Phenomenological, and Indian Traditions
After Buddhism: Rethinking the Dharma for a Secular Age
Philosophers of Nothingness: An Essay on the Kyoto School
The Kyoto School
Nishida And Western Philosophy
Buddhism: A Philosophical Approach
What the Buddha Thought
Wisdom Beyond Words: The Buddhist Vision of Ultimate Reality
Buddhism as Philosophy: An Introduction
An Introduction to Buddhist Philosophy
Why I Am Not a Buddhist
Why I Am a Buddhist: No-Nonsense Buddhism with Red Meat and Whiskey
October 30, 2017
An excellent and comprehensive introduction to Buddhism. Besides the essential spiritual teachings of Buddhism, this book provides insights to its history, the different schools of Buddhism, how it relates with other religions and its place in the modern world.
Although a great book, I think it might be better appreciated by those with some knowledge of Buddhism.
Although a great book, I think it might be better appreciated by those with some knowledge of Buddhism.
May 11, 2022
This is a slightly confusing text, in that it could be discussing advanced topics like bodhicitta and emptiness in one section, and then move on to quite simplistic, secular discussions on mindfulness. One can sense that this is a collection of HHDL's orally-transmitted thoughts as opposed to a coherent, written text. Nonetheless, I really appreciated HHDL's thoughts on the great Indian/Nalanda masters here, particularly the chapter which highlights his own daily practice, which is really commendable and inspiring. While HHDL's admission that he himself has not fully attained the realisations sought by Mahayanists is commendable, it is equally demotivating for one to see that even someone like HHDL, who has spent his entire life working on the spiritual, has not reached the goal.
July 29, 2020
If you think Buddhism is having a shrine, a statue, saying some praying and using vajra/bell/mala beads for chanting mantra, this book will make you think again.
If you are a serious scholar who wants to dig deeper to understand the Buddhist philosophy and science of mind, this book and all the other books in the series are for you. It is definitely not designed for someone who has an attitude of wishing the Buddha to give you blessing and you do nothing to change your life.
The book gives great explanation for the origin of different Dharma teachings that seem to contradict each other, for example the definition of emptiness of inherent existence of a person or a phenomena. This is the result of the Buddha’s skillful way of teaching different disciples with different levels of understanding (and mind illness), but there is no contradiction.
You’ll also learn how to tell if a teaching is true Dharma or the creation of cultural adaptation when Buddhism spread to different countries.
Last but not least, the Dalai Lama will demystify lots of misunderstanding about Tibetan Tantric practice. If you’re interested in tantra and has no knowledge of it, instead of reading tantric texts and find a tantric teacher to get empowerment, etc. read these books to understand deeply about renunciation, bodhicitta and emptiness first. When you have develop strong conviction in these three, your practice in tantra will progress very quickly.
This is for students who seek to understanding their own mind, how thoughts feelings, discrimination, prejudice, hatred forms and arise, where they from, where they go, etc. but very briefly. To know more, you have to go to the next book in the series.
If you are a serious scholar who wants to dig deeper to understand the Buddhist philosophy and science of mind, this book and all the other books in the series are for you. It is definitely not designed for someone who has an attitude of wishing the Buddha to give you blessing and you do nothing to change your life.
The book gives great explanation for the origin of different Dharma teachings that seem to contradict each other, for example the definition of emptiness of inherent existence of a person or a phenomena. This is the result of the Buddha’s skillful way of teaching different disciples with different levels of understanding (and mind illness), but there is no contradiction.
You’ll also learn how to tell if a teaching is true Dharma or the creation of cultural adaptation when Buddhism spread to different countries.
Last but not least, the Dalai Lama will demystify lots of misunderstanding about Tibetan Tantric practice. If you’re interested in tantra and has no knowledge of it, instead of reading tantric texts and find a tantric teacher to get empowerment, etc. read these books to understand deeply about renunciation, bodhicitta and emptiness first. When you have develop strong conviction in these three, your practice in tantra will progress very quickly.
This is for students who seek to understanding their own mind, how thoughts feelings, discrimination, prejudice, hatred forms and arise, where they from, where they go, etc. but very briefly. To know more, you have to go to the next book in the series.
March 23, 2018
An excellent introduction to Buddhism and its background. The Dalai Lama does not seek to convert anyone to Buddhism - in fact he is actively against doing so. For example, he states that "... Buddhism...is not necessarily the best for everyone. Therefore I accept and respect all religious traditions." (p. 271). However, the book does indicate how some aspects of the Buddhist tradition, such as meditation, can benefit others, and it does clarify what Buddhism is about for those who are interested in learning about it and perhaps continuing on its path.
Read
October 2, 2023A very accessible introduction to Buddhism for Westerners. I've found in a lifetime of reading Buddhist texts and talking with teachers that many fundamental concepts of Buddhism are beyond foreign to someone raised in a Judo-Christian society. This book attempts to create access points for these types of discussions, and I think that is the strength of this text.
April 24, 2021
Astoundingly informative, though this is supposed to cover only the beginning. So many other follow-up books! A lot of books on a variety of religions can be confusing. Therefore, Thubten Chodron, a senior female Buddhist nun has been working for decades to compile all the teachings with the support of the Dalai Lama.
.
I learnt a lot about basic tenets and philosophy of Buddhism. There are also a lot of technical parts which I did not really enjoy. Same goes for the historical parts. The book does deal a lot with mind-related discussions. I find that extremely fascinating but it can be too abstract and challenging to understand.
.
Nonetheless, the beginning and the ending parts of the book are insightful! The Dalai Lama shares his experiences and views on many topics! If you are into learning more about Buddhism, this book is highly recommended! Problem is, it is SO EXPENSIVE! I had to buy it from Book Depository for RM 100. Kinokuniya is selling the series at RM 150 each, good Lord.
.
Some extracts I find interesting –
.
‘Since both happiness and suffering arise in dependence on causes and conditions, we must know the causes of each so that we can train our minds to create the causes for happiness and abandon the causes for suffering.’
.
‘… the first step to having a meaningful life is to abandon harming others.’
.
‘The world is led by mind and drawn along by mind. All phenomena are controlled by one phenomenon, mind.’
.
‘The mind includes not only our intellect, but also all our cognitions, emotions, and other mental factors.’
.
‘The final nature of the mind, its ultimate mode of existence, is its emptiness of inherent existence.’
.
‘It is the subtlest mind – the fundamental, innate mind of clear light that is the final basis of designation of the person – that connects one life with the next.’
.
‘All religions teach some form of ethical conduct.’
.
I learnt a lot about basic tenets and philosophy of Buddhism. There are also a lot of technical parts which I did not really enjoy. Same goes for the historical parts. The book does deal a lot with mind-related discussions. I find that extremely fascinating but it can be too abstract and challenging to understand.
.
Nonetheless, the beginning and the ending parts of the book are insightful! The Dalai Lama shares his experiences and views on many topics! If you are into learning more about Buddhism, this book is highly recommended! Problem is, it is SO EXPENSIVE! I had to buy it from Book Depository for RM 100. Kinokuniya is selling the series at RM 150 each, good Lord.
.
Some extracts I find interesting –
.
‘Since both happiness and suffering arise in dependence on causes and conditions, we must know the causes of each so that we can train our minds to create the causes for happiness and abandon the causes for suffering.’
.
‘… the first step to having a meaningful life is to abandon harming others.’
.
‘The world is led by mind and drawn along by mind. All phenomena are controlled by one phenomenon, mind.’
.
‘The mind includes not only our intellect, but also all our cognitions, emotions, and other mental factors.’
.
‘The final nature of the mind, its ultimate mode of existence, is its emptiness of inherent existence.’
.
‘It is the subtlest mind – the fundamental, innate mind of clear light that is the final basis of designation of the person – that connects one life with the next.’
.
‘All religions teach some form of ethical conduct.’
April 25, 2022
Буддизм өөрийгөө хүмүүст хүчлэх ёсгүй. Тийм ч болохоор та Буддын шашны холбогдолтой материал тарааж яваа хүнтэй таарч байгаагүй байх. Хүн ер нь шашин шүтэхдээ ихэнх тохиолдолд өөрийнхөө гэр бүлийн уламжлалыг дагавал зүгээр. Дэлхийн том шашин бүрт хүмүүсийг илүү сайн хүмүүс болоход нь тусалдаг номлол бий...
гэх мэт, ер нь Монголчуудад толгой дарааллан уншуулмаар сайхан бүтээл болжээ. Гэхдээ бас Буддын шашны олон зуун жилийн уламжлалтай манай оронд одоо болтол ийм төрлийн бүтээл гараагүй байгаа нь гунигтай.
гэх мэт, ер нь Монголчуудад толгой дарааллан уншуулмаар сайхан бүтээл болжээ. Гэхдээ бас Буддын шашны олон зуун жилийн уламжлалтай манай оронд одоо болтол ийм төрлийн бүтээл гараагүй байгаа нь гунигтай.
September 18, 2020
2020.08.24–2020.09.01
Contents
Dalai Lama XIV & Thubten Chodron (2017) (09:43) Approaching the Buddhist Path
Prologue by His Holiness the Dalai Lama
Preface by Bhikṣuṇī Thubten Chodron
• The Purpose of This Series
• Overview of the Entire Series
• Overview of Volume I
• Please Note
• Acknowledgments and Appreciation
Abbreviations
01. Exploring Buddhism
• The Purpose of Existence and the Meaning of Life
• A Middle Way between Theistic Religions and Scientific Reductionism
• Buddhadharma and Other Religions
• Religion in the Modern World
• A Broad Perspective
02. The Buddhist View of Life
• What Is Mind?
• Body, Mind, Rebirth, and Self
• The Four Truths of the Āryas
• Dependent Arising and Emptiness
• Dependent Arising and the Three Jewels
• The Possibility of Ending Duḥkha
03. Mind and Emotions
• Buddhism, Science, and Emotions
• Happiness and Unhappiness, Virtue and Nonvirtue
• Emotions and Kleśas
• Constructive and Destructive Emotions
• • Attachment
• • Fear
• • Anger
• • Disillusionment
• Emotions and Survival
• Working with Afflictions
• Cultivating Love and Compassion
• A Good State of Mind
• Working with Fear, Developing Courage
• Hope, Desire, and Acceptance
• Comparing Ourselves with Others and Self-Worth
• Counteracting Depression
• Disagreement and Conflict
• Survival of the Most Cooperative
04. The Spread of the Buddhadharma and Buddhist Canons
• Vehicles and Paths
• • Buddhist Traditions
• The Buddha’s Life
• Early Buddhist Schools
• Early Buddhism in Sri Lanka
• Growth of the Mahāyāna
• The Development of Tantra
• Buddhist Canons
• • The Pāli Canon
• • The Chinese Canon
• • The Tibetan Canon
• • Vinaya Basket
• • Sūtra Basket
• • Abhidharma Basket
• • Tantra
• Philosophical Systems
05. The Buddha’s Teachings Form a Cohesive Whole
• Three Turnings of the Dharma Wheel
• Authenticity of the Mahāyāna Scriptures
• Nāgārjuna on the Authenticity of the Mahāyāna Sūtras
• Is the Buddha’s Word Always Spoken by the Buddha?
• Four Authenticities
• Four Buddha Bodies
• Buddhism in Tibet
06. Investigating the Teachings
• The Kālāmas’ Experience
• Reliable Teachings
• Treasure Teachings and Pure Vision Teachings
• Exaggerated Statements?
• Correctly Understanding the Point
• Can the Dharma Change?
• Being Practical
07. The Importance of Kindness and Compassion
• A Peaceful Mind
• The Importance of Motivation
• Cultivating a Compassionate Intention
• Mind Training
• Eight Verses
08. A Systematic Approach
• Paths for Spiritual Development
• The Four Truths and Three Levels of Practitioners
• More Than One Approach
• Teachings for a Contemporary Audience
• Value of the Stages of the Path
• Two Aims and Four Reliances
09. Tools for the Path
• General Advice
• Wisdom and Faith
• Proper Practice
• Purification and Collection of Merit
• Prayers and Rituals
• Study, Reflection, and Meditation
• Memorization and Debate
• Role Models
10. Making Progress
• Realistic Expectations
• Advanced Practices at the Right Time
• Checking Our Meditation Experiences
• Signs of Progress
11. Personal Reflections on the Path
• My Day
• Gradual Progress
• Cultivating Bodhicitta
• Willingness to Undergo Hardship
• Keeping a Happy Mind
• Realized Beings
• What I Have Learned in Life
12. Working in the World
• Good Health and Dealing with Illness and Injury
• Maintaining a Positive Attitude
• Using Diverse Methods to Benefit Others
• Engaged Buddhism and Political Involvement
• Consumerism and the Environment
• The World of Business and Finance
• Media and the Arts
• Science
• Gender Equality
• Interfaith
• Incorporating Practices from Other Religions
• A Nonsectarian Approach
Notes
Glossary
Further Reading
Index
About the Authors
Contents
Dalai Lama XIV & Thubten Chodron (2017) (09:43) Approaching the Buddhist Path
Prologue by His Holiness the Dalai Lama
Preface by Bhikṣuṇī Thubten Chodron
• The Purpose of This Series
• Overview of the Entire Series
• Overview of Volume I
• Please Note
• Acknowledgments and Appreciation
Abbreviations
01. Exploring Buddhism
• The Purpose of Existence and the Meaning of Life
• A Middle Way between Theistic Religions and Scientific Reductionism
• Buddhadharma and Other Religions
• Religion in the Modern World
• A Broad Perspective
02. The Buddhist View of Life
• What Is Mind?
• Body, Mind, Rebirth, and Self
• The Four Truths of the Āryas
• Dependent Arising and Emptiness
• Dependent Arising and the Three Jewels
• The Possibility of Ending Duḥkha
03. Mind and Emotions
• Buddhism, Science, and Emotions
• Happiness and Unhappiness, Virtue and Nonvirtue
• Emotions and Kleśas
• Constructive and Destructive Emotions
• • Attachment
• • Fear
• • Anger
• • Disillusionment
• Emotions and Survival
• Working with Afflictions
• Cultivating Love and Compassion
• A Good State of Mind
• Working with Fear, Developing Courage
• Hope, Desire, and Acceptance
• Comparing Ourselves with Others and Self-Worth
• Counteracting Depression
• Disagreement and Conflict
• Survival of the Most Cooperative
04. The Spread of the Buddhadharma and Buddhist Canons
• Vehicles and Paths
• • Buddhist Traditions
• The Buddha’s Life
• Early Buddhist Schools
• Early Buddhism in Sri Lanka
• Growth of the Mahāyāna
• The Development of Tantra
• Buddhist Canons
• • The Pāli Canon
• • The Chinese Canon
• • The Tibetan Canon
• • Vinaya Basket
• • Sūtra Basket
• • Abhidharma Basket
• • Tantra
• Philosophical Systems
05. The Buddha’s Teachings Form a Cohesive Whole
• Three Turnings of the Dharma Wheel
• Authenticity of the Mahāyāna Scriptures
• Nāgārjuna on the Authenticity of the Mahāyāna Sūtras
• Is the Buddha’s Word Always Spoken by the Buddha?
• Four Authenticities
• Four Buddha Bodies
• Buddhism in Tibet
06. Investigating the Teachings
• The Kālāmas’ Experience
• Reliable Teachings
• Treasure Teachings and Pure Vision Teachings
• Exaggerated Statements?
• Correctly Understanding the Point
• Can the Dharma Change?
• Being Practical
07. The Importance of Kindness and Compassion
• A Peaceful Mind
• The Importance of Motivation
• Cultivating a Compassionate Intention
• Mind Training
• Eight Verses
08. A Systematic Approach
• Paths for Spiritual Development
• The Four Truths and Three Levels of Practitioners
• More Than One Approach
• Teachings for a Contemporary Audience
• Value of the Stages of the Path
• Two Aims and Four Reliances
09. Tools for the Path
• General Advice
• Wisdom and Faith
• Proper Practice
• Purification and Collection of Merit
• Prayers and Rituals
• Study, Reflection, and Meditation
• Memorization and Debate
• Role Models
10. Making Progress
• Realistic Expectations
• Advanced Practices at the Right Time
• Checking Our Meditation Experiences
• Signs of Progress
11. Personal Reflections on the Path
• My Day
• Gradual Progress
• Cultivating Bodhicitta
• Willingness to Undergo Hardship
• Keeping a Happy Mind
• Realized Beings
• What I Have Learned in Life
12. Working in the World
• Good Health and Dealing with Illness and Injury
• Maintaining a Positive Attitude
• Using Diverse Methods to Benefit Others
• Engaged Buddhism and Political Involvement
• Consumerism and the Environment
• The World of Business and Finance
• Media and the Arts
• Science
• Gender Equality
• Interfaith
• Incorporating Practices from Other Religions
• A Nonsectarian Approach
Notes
Glossary
Further Reading
Index
About the Authors
December 2, 2020
This is the first volume in a multiple volume series on Buddhism written by The Dalai Lama and Thubten Chodron. As to be expected in a first volume this book introduces you to the world of Buddhism and Buddhist thought.
Coming from the Theravada tradition myself it was great to read about the Mahayana and Vajrayana tradition which as I understand has a more spiritual/faith approach than the Theravada path and always felt more like a faith to me. After reading The Dalai Lama's explanation on these topics a lot of fog has lifted on these teachings.
The book includes short introductory material on a broad range of Buddhist concepts and topics that will be discussed in depth later on in the series.
Coming from the Theravada tradition myself it was great to read about the Mahayana and Vajrayana tradition which as I understand has a more spiritual/faith approach than the Theravada path and always felt more like a faith to me. After reading The Dalai Lama's explanation on these topics a lot of fog has lifted on these teachings.
The book includes short introductory material on a broad range of Buddhist concepts and topics that will be discussed in depth later on in the series.
June 25, 2020
This is the first of a four-volume series meant as an introduction to (Tibetan) Buddhism for those who come from non-Buddhist traditions. It's accessible, simply and clearly presented, and full of humble wisdom from His Holiness, the Dalai Lama, and Thubten Chodron. This volume contains a light touch on many topics, from the history of Buddhism and Tibetan style, to scripture, philosophy, and process of Buddhadharma toward Enlightenment, to everyday practice and meditation. It's a wonderful introduction for Western audiences in particular. I think I'll pick up the second volume when I'm ready.
March 21, 2021
A great reminder in a vexing world filled with anger, anxiety and uncertainty. But His Holiness and Thubten Chodron integrated the great teachings of Buddha into our daily lives. I love how Science has been widely mentioned throughout the book, assisting us to better understand the sage's words.
Wisdom and faith complement and reinforce each other on the path. Whereas faith enables us to be inspired and receptive, wisdom gives us a clear mind that understands both conventional existence and ultimate reality .
I live by this book and often re-read the phrases whenever I need guidance in life.
Wisdom and faith complement and reinforce each other on the path. Whereas faith enables us to be inspired and receptive, wisdom gives us a clear mind that understands both conventional existence and ultimate reality .
I live by this book and often re-read the phrases whenever I need guidance in life.
July 4, 2019
First in series: a well written, concise explanation of the basic tenets of Buddhism, authoritative but not dry, with commentary by His Holiness on how each particular topic played out in his own life. Occasional comments by Ven. Thubten Chodron, the American nun who helped write the book, illuminates.
April 26, 2020
The Dalai Lama (in collaboration with Thubten Chodron) is writing a series of books introducing the principles of Buddhist philosophy to western audiences. This is the first of the ongoing series, read by me at a very leisurely pace, and filled with the insight and wisdom one would expect to come from such a revered spiritual leader.
September 12, 2021
The book has some extremely useful advice. But it lacks an inherent structure, depth and order. Could have used some editing. Regardless, it was a good introduction to the Tibetan culture and Vajrayana. I wouldn't recommend this book to study a particular topic, but I'd for misc advice on practice and life.
July 19, 2024
Tools for Life! Is such a great introduction to Buddhism for those who are interested. Some of the best material often stops the question itself. On this book dalai lama talks about science, other religions, how good is philosophy can be helpful to anyone without changing religion. This is it true tool for life regardless of your belief system.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 16, 2017
The book is a succinct primer of Buddhism. Personally, building on Buddhist thought, meditation, and practice - I’ve learned a lot about Buddhism and myself. This book does an excellent job of summarizes what I have learned over the years.
Definitely worth the read.
Definitely worth the read.
June 14, 2019
Some chapters are excellent. Some are very technical and beyond the scope of what I wish to learn. However I will pick it up again and again for reference and have highlighted many good points of reference.
June 20, 2021
Living as a Buddhist without becoming Buddhist…
I haven’t finished this book yet but to where I’m at it is helping me a lot… I got the whole series… I hope this book will influence this I care about…
I haven’t finished this book yet but to where I’m at it is helping me a lot… I got the whole series… I hope this book will influence this I care about…
August 2, 2023
Читала около полугода, часто откладывая. Скорее будет полезной для людей веры и стремящихся именно к религиозной практике. Я же интересуюсь светским буддизмом, но всё равно нашла полезное.
Отдельный лайк за главу про гендерное равенство.
Эта книга существует и в русском переводе.
Отдельный лайк за главу про гендерное равенство.
Эта книга существует и в русском переводе.
February 5, 2026
he’s no thich naht hanh but it was a good overview, albeit could’ve been condensed with better expansion on the key buddhist teachings (although i did fall asleep listening to the audiobook so probably missed bits)
December 17, 2017
Liked and good advice but too dense. Maybe later. Didn't finish.
December 3, 2020
Steph and I started reading a section a day on 4/1, as part of our morning meditation routine. There was a lot that was challenging and unfamiliar but we learned a lot as well.
February 15, 2021
A lot of wisdom.
I skipped over the parts in history, but there is a lot of valuable knowledge in this book. Definitely recommend to anyone interested in Buddhism.
I skipped over the parts in history, but there is a lot of valuable knowledge in this book. Definitely recommend to anyone interested in Buddhism.
June 15, 2021
(to come)
January 18, 2025
Restarted this dense tomb, had gotten 25% through with it in 2023.
March 16, 2025
excellent introductory book, explains concepts and applies them in a way westerners can understand
March 27, 2025
Probably would have given higher rating if it weren’t having read this for homework lol. Not bad though!
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