Zen Philosophy, Zen Practice

by Thich Thien-An

The way of Zen holds that reality is to be gotten hold of not externally, but inwardly. The truth is to be found in our own nature and nowhere else. Within each living being is the Buddha nature, the principle of enlightenment.




"To become a Buddha is simply to discover this Buddha nature, always present within, eternally shining. Like the sun, it continually radiates light, but when the clouds pass over, we cannot see it. The goal is to eliminate the clouds, for when they fly away, we can once again see the light."




Thich Thien-An was an eminent Vietnamese master concerned with introducing Zen to Western practitioners. Originally given as public lectures, this book's 14 chapters, emphasize general principles and understanding while covering a range of topics including "Self-Reflection in Zen Buddhism," "Three Essentials of Zen Practice," and "The Matter of Soul in Buddhism."




Each lecture end with a different method of practice used in Zen Buddhism giving readers the opportunity to experience Zen practice and choose from a variety of methods and techniques, those that are most effective for the reader.

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

179 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1975

About the author

Thích Thiên-Ân was a teacher and Buddhist monk of Vietnamese Thiền (Zen) Buddhism and was active in the United States from 1966 to 1980.

Reviews

[Olga]

An elaborate introduction to buddhism, philosophy and practice. Examines zen philosophy that was developed mainly in Japan. I found out a lot of stuff about thinking and living zen, with all the spiritualism involved. Each chapter finishes with a meditation exercise.

[James Williams]

Excellent, excellent read! I highly recommend this book for any looking to calm and to be at peace with the monkey brain (mitote). This read provided sound examples of how to meditate and how to separate the truth from duality, leading one to Nirvana or full enlightenment. I have increased my meditation and awareness (mindfulness) drastically since completing this well-written book.


Dr. James Arthur Williams

www.unmaskytp.com

[C Settles]

Good introductory read to Zen for those not familiar with Buddhism.

[Nathaniel]

So far, so good - I just wish there wsren't so many abverbs.

[Sarita]

Got me soft smilin at a bunch of strangers on 1 bus every mornitn #SatoriMode

[R. August]

A thorough and comprehensive overview of Zen teaching. The language was a little dated, and at times a little far-fetched (apparently capitalizing the word "I" in English grammar is proof positive of every English speaker's inherent egocentrism...). A re-edited version now that 40 years have passed would be good, but it is an excellent introduction to Zen thinking given what it is.

[Amanda]

I LOVE IT! Great for beginners like me! (or if you just wanna know a little sumptin bout zen)