Buddha

by Jon Ortner, Gautama Buddha (Contributor), Jack Kornfield (Introduction)

In the twenty-five centuries since the Buddha's death, his profound teachings and path have guided and enlightened millions of lives. The Buddha also has inspired some of the most beautiful and magnificent artistic creations ever produced by humanity. Jon Ortner's photographs of over 150 of these extraordinary works of art grace this volume. From the hundreds of rare Laotian Buddhas filling the Pak Ou Caves to the colossal gold and gem-encrusted Maha Muni Buddha of Mandalay, the Buddha's wisdom, compassion, and serenity are eternally present. Simple but powerful verses from the sacred teachings of the Buddha accompany the photographs. The foreword by Jon Ortner talks about their creation and the introduction by Jack Kornfield gives the reader an understanding of the Buddha's life and influence. Additional notes in the back of the book provide descriptive and historic information on key images.

Back in print in with a stunning new cover, this is the perfect gift for practicing Buddhists as well as anyone simply looking for an added measure of beauty and peace in his or her life.

Genres: Nonfiction, Photography

240 pages, Hardcover

First published August 3, 2003

Reviews

[〰️Beth〰️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

First and foremost this is a beautiful book of photography. Jon Ortner’s images are stunning. This is one of those books you want out on a table so you can periodically return and contemplate the images. Not just the grandur of the art but the dedication and spirituality of those who created the temples and sculptures.

That being said the Buddhist sayings seem random and an afterthought. The end of the book has added notes on some of the photographs. I would have much preferred those notes on the pages opposite the images.

As we move into the second decade of the 21st Century I want to reflect on Buddha’s words from 2,500 years ago.

“In this world hate never yet dispelled hate. That is the law. Ancient and inexhaustible. You too shall pass away. Knowing this, how can you quarrel? “~ Buddha

[Jenna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Full of stunning photography and the inspiring words of Buddha.

[Samilja · Rating 3 out of 5]

Beautiful photograps of Buddhist iconography throughout Asia interspersed with quotes of The Buddha via the Dhammapada. I love The Buddha's words and again, the photos were beautiful, but I felt like the selected passages were almost throw-aways in this context. It's difficult to cull a few verses from a prodigious text and do the latter justice. I would have much preferred more historical, political, geographical (etc.) information on the subject of each photo. They are fascinating images and I know many are at the heart of extraordinary histories that I'd love to know more about. To be fair, some of this is addressed in the 'Additional Notes' section of the book but only in a broad-bush, surface way.

Still - this is at heart a coffee table book and as such, it's a good one.

[Nicko Gibson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Collection of some nice photographs and quotes.

[Kandachamy Vijayakumaran · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful book which is of little printed text but a lot of beautiful photographs of Buddhist art and architecture. It is a real treasure-trove. A must read (watch) for those interested in art and architecture.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is excellent for the beautiful pictures but the excerpts are not well versed, quoted, or displayed. They feel very much like an added afterthought and not complete.

[Leftistbaddie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was wonderful. The introduction contained a brief but informative history on the roots of Buddhism. There is beautiful photography sprinkled throughout to immerse the reader in the rich history. Above all, the quotes have very valuable life lessons that I will be using. A great book for those new to buddhism.

[Fi's Journey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everything arises and passes away.
When you see this, you are above sorrow.
This is the shining way.

Existence is sorrow.
Understand, and go beyond sorrow.
This is the way of brightness.

Existence is illusion.
Understand, go beyond.
This is the way of clarity.

Buddha has beautiful pictures by Jon Ortner and beautiful words of the Buddhism world.
I really enjoyed flipping through the pages and gaze and the words and pictures.

[Shelley]

This is one of my favourite books, I love it and often flick through it for inspiration and guidance.