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Buddhismus für Dummies
Der Dalai Lama ist Kult und in der N?he von Bordeaux scharen sich die Anh?nger um Tich Nhat Hanh. Was macht den Buddhismus f?r viele so faszinierend? Jonathan Landaw und Stephan Bodian f?hren leicht verst?ndlich in diese fern?stliche Lehre ein. Sie berichten vom Leben des historischen Buddha und von den unterschiedlichen Traditionen, die sich ?ber die Jahrhunderte entwickelt haben. Die Leser erfahren, was es mit dem Kleinen (Hinayana) und dem Gro?en Fahrzeug (Mahayana) auf sich hat, wie sich der Zen-Buddhismus von der tibetanischen Schule unterscheidet und wie sich diese Lehre friedlich ?ber ganz Asien verbreitet hat. Doch wer ein achtsames Leben im Sinne des Buddha f?hren m?chte, muss nicht in Indien, Tibet, Thailand oder Burma leben. Die Autoren zeigen, wie der Buddhismus unseren Alltag bereichern kann und dass es auch in westlichen Kulturen m?glich ist, dem Pfad der Erleuchtung zu folgen.
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First published December 1, 2002
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
December 1, 2015
It took me quite a long time to finish this book. I have been interested in Buddhism since I was a kid but then after some time I decided to be an atheist. Being an atheist does not mean that I don't respect or take interest in religion I honestly like it and I like seeing different points of views and learn about them.
I have to admit that Buddhism was very foreign to me I never read about it and did have no idea what was the religion about. The only thing I knew about it was to rub a Buddha's belly and say please give me money. Yes, that is how ignorant I was.
This book encouraged me to actually start practicing meditation and to learn more about it.
Since I started this book I've been keen on it and I don't think it will stop because learning about Buddhism has made a deep impact and I will keep reading about it. I have learned so much by reading this book and from the online meditation group.
Now why I give this book a 4 out of 5 is because it dedicated too much time in explaining the differences between every Buddhist tradition which it can be very confusing if you are a beginner or have no idea about it. In overall a very good introductory book.
I have to admit that Buddhism was very foreign to me I never read about it and did have no idea what was the religion about. The only thing I knew about it was to rub a Buddha's belly and say please give me money. Yes, that is how ignorant I was.
This book encouraged me to actually start practicing meditation and to learn more about it.
Since I started this book I've been keen on it and I don't think it will stop because learning about Buddhism has made a deep impact and I will keep reading about it. I have learned so much by reading this book and from the online meditation group.
Now why I give this book a 4 out of 5 is because it dedicated too much time in explaining the differences between every Buddhist tradition which it can be very confusing if you are a beginner or have no idea about it. In overall a very good introductory book.
April 12, 2011
For a while, I was hesitant to pick this up because I didn't know how serious (or not-serious) this would be. I remember reading Shakespeare for Dummies over ten years ago, and the way I remember it I wasn't too fond of the overall tone. But since the reviews on this one were rather positive, and made it sound like a good, general introduction to the topic, I decided to give it a try. And I'm glad I did!
Here, the tone was nowhere as ridiculous-sounding as I remember the other ...for Dummies book I read, and I found it to be a well structured and well written introduction to Buddhism. You get the basics (who Buddha was and what his teachings were) as well as some specifics (short explanations of the many different branches of Buddhism, a description of a day in the life of a practicing Buddhist), and the authors make a point of encouraging you to read other books and not simply trust what they're saying. There is also a chapter on meditation with some examples of exercises you can try.
I also liked how very much non-evangelistic this book was - while their dedication and knowledge is apparent, the authors at no point seem like they would force anyone to become a Buddhist (which wouldn't be very Buddhist-like anyway, but hopefully you get my point).
It was a very enjoyable and enlightening (sorry) book, and I am very glad I read it.
Here, the tone was nowhere as ridiculous-sounding as I remember the other ...for Dummies book I read, and I found it to be a well structured and well written introduction to Buddhism. You get the basics (who Buddha was and what his teachings were) as well as some specifics (short explanations of the many different branches of Buddhism, a description of a day in the life of a practicing Buddhist), and the authors make a point of encouraging you to read other books and not simply trust what they're saying. There is also a chapter on meditation with some examples of exercises you can try.
I also liked how very much non-evangelistic this book was - while their dedication and knowledge is apparent, the authors at no point seem like they would force anyone to become a Buddhist (which wouldn't be very Buddhist-like anyway, but hopefully you get my point).
It was a very enjoyable and enlightening (sorry) book, and I am very glad I read it.
March 22, 2014
I'm one of the "dummies" referred to in the title. What I knew about Buddhism I'd learned while studying the transcendental writers, Emerson, Thoreau etc. while in college.
This book is written by Stephan Bodian, an American Buddhist monk, and Jonathan Landaw, who has led meditation courses at Buddhist centers for over twenty-five years.
Despite its cheesy title, this book answered most of the questions I had about Buddhism:
Why the heck does the Buddha have so many names? He was born Prince Siddhartha, but once he became enlightened, he was called Shakyamuni Buddha. Bodhi, the tree under which he meditated, means enlightenment. Shakyamuni means enlightened sage of the Shakyas, the clan to which he belonged.
Was Buddha God? No, he was a real human thought to have lived between 563 and 483 BCE. When you see Buddhist monks prostate before a statue of Buddha, they are praying to their inner Buddha. They believe each of us has the ability to achieve enlightenment (nirvana).
What is karma? Sort of credits you build up, both bad and good. Buddhists believe in reincarnation; karma credits transfer from life to life. So if you're dealt a bad hand; it's because you were naughty in a previous life.
What's the difference between Theravada Buddhism and Mahayana Buddhism? The way I understand it, Theravada emphasizes individual enlightenment; whereas, the Mahayana's proponents are more worried about helping everyone achieve spiritual awakening. A Buddha becomes a Bodhisattva, sort of a savior like Shakyamuni. Theravadas also emphasize compassion and kindness which is pretty much the same thing. Zen Buddhism and Vajrayana (Tibetan) are offshoots of Mahayana Buddhism.
What about heaven and hell? This is where they lost me. Shakyamuni taught that suffering resulted from something called the "Wheel of Life." A diagram shows a pig (ignorance) giving birth to a rooster (desire or attachment) and a snake (aversion or hatred). There are also six realms of existence: God, anti-God, Human, Animal, hungry ghost, and hell being. Primarily through meditation and compassion, an entity can build up enough karma to work its way up to God. But the gods can be demoted if they run out of karma and they are always fighting the jealous anti-gods, so apparently they are not Buddhas. This wheel of life has existed in infinity; one of the authors says to remember that an enemy was probably at one time your mother, so it should be easy to forgive.
At times Landaw and Bodian take their transcendental philosophy a bit too far. The last section deals with "uninvited house guests." By this they mean insects. According to Buddha killing mosquitoes and other pests is bad karma. If a mosquito makes its way into your house, you're supposed to catch it and take it outside. Obviously these guys haven't experienced a humid, Minnesota evening in July down by the lake.
This book is written by Stephan Bodian, an American Buddhist monk, and Jonathan Landaw, who has led meditation courses at Buddhist centers for over twenty-five years.
Despite its cheesy title, this book answered most of the questions I had about Buddhism:
Why the heck does the Buddha have so many names? He was born Prince Siddhartha, but once he became enlightened, he was called Shakyamuni Buddha. Bodhi, the tree under which he meditated, means enlightenment. Shakyamuni means enlightened sage of the Shakyas, the clan to which he belonged.
Was Buddha God? No, he was a real human thought to have lived between 563 and 483 BCE. When you see Buddhist monks prostate before a statue of Buddha, they are praying to their inner Buddha. They believe each of us has the ability to achieve enlightenment (nirvana).
What is karma? Sort of credits you build up, both bad and good. Buddhists believe in reincarnation; karma credits transfer from life to life. So if you're dealt a bad hand; it's because you were naughty in a previous life.
What's the difference between Theravada Buddhism and Mahayana Buddhism? The way I understand it, Theravada emphasizes individual enlightenment; whereas, the Mahayana's proponents are more worried about helping everyone achieve spiritual awakening. A Buddha becomes a Bodhisattva, sort of a savior like Shakyamuni. Theravadas also emphasize compassion and kindness which is pretty much the same thing. Zen Buddhism and Vajrayana (Tibetan) are offshoots of Mahayana Buddhism.
What about heaven and hell? This is where they lost me. Shakyamuni taught that suffering resulted from something called the "Wheel of Life." A diagram shows a pig (ignorance) giving birth to a rooster (desire or attachment) and a snake (aversion or hatred). There are also six realms of existence: God, anti-God, Human, Animal, hungry ghost, and hell being. Primarily through meditation and compassion, an entity can build up enough karma to work its way up to God. But the gods can be demoted if they run out of karma and they are always fighting the jealous anti-gods, so apparently they are not Buddhas. This wheel of life has existed in infinity; one of the authors says to remember that an enemy was probably at one time your mother, so it should be easy to forgive.
At times Landaw and Bodian take their transcendental philosophy a bit too far. The last section deals with "uninvited house guests." By this they mean insects. According to Buddha killing mosquitoes and other pests is bad karma. If a mosquito makes its way into your house, you're supposed to catch it and take it outside. Obviously these guys haven't experienced a humid, Minnesota evening in July down by the lake.
March 23, 2018
Grandiose, objective and transparent introduction to the matter, including an overdose of wisdom
Please note that I put the original German text at the end of this review. Just if you might be interested.
This member of the very good "Dummies" family comes along as an overview providing both the historical and philosophical aspects of well-balanced unifying advisers. As established as part of the brand name and recognition value, some pictograms adorn the pages for added clarity, to pick out the subjectively relevant aspects more easily.
It highlights mainly fundamental or potentially misunderstood explanations, quotes, and guidance for better understanding. To be able to internalize the quintessence in the form of distilled teachings more easily, for example, with repeated reading. The introduction explains the fundamental difference to other religions, the central meaning of reflection, mindfulness and goodness, the interaction of action and thinking, the discovery of one's states of consciousness and the acceptance of one's inadequacy and ignorance.
This as a fundamental requirement for future, positive changes and the liberation from avoidable suffering. In the historical part of the book, an immense collection of narratives and traditions is dedicated to the life of the eponymous founding father before it goes to the description of the emergence of the different schools and their emphasis. Due to the underlying tolerant paradigm, various forms of interpretation of the doctrine could establish themselves, which by their diversity should correspond in some way to the needs and ideas of almost every seeker of meaning. If he is willing to spend the time and effort required to find the right school.
Besides, in the course of its expansion beyond India, the particular mentality and cultural uniqueness of the populations of other states has been used as an additional boost for the promotion of diversity. Instead of putting variety in a tight corset of ready-made rules, as in other religions. This openness and ongoing development to this day are one of the significant differences between separate strictly hierarchical and dogmatic beliefs.
These differ slightly in their interpretation from each other, but would never dare to deviate from the fundamental maxims. Even though a bit of effort may be made in the face of a flood of technical terms in this chapter, the ideas behind the almost ineffable names justify a closer look. Practice, traditional training of a Buddhist and meditation are explained in short sections. In the case of specific interest in this regard, however, it would be advisable to read a book focused on the individual field.
The sheer abundance of manuals and practices that are still growing will hardly ever be mastered by a library, let alone a bookshelf. The meditation increases with the practitioner, as opposed to reciting commandments and biblical texts. It can, therefore, be slightly modified, varied and developed according to its individual preferences after obtaining the necessary knowledge. Thus, each person tends to have the potential to build their capacity to design unique meditation practices.
The Buddhist Pathway chapter focuses more on the theoretical aspects of enlightenment, dealing with transience and death, unfolding one's potential, karma, and the life stories of Buddhist masters. However, it also offers eye-opening insights and touches, as exemplified by the example of death meditation, profoundly.
To accept these sometimes unpleasant truths and to venture the attempt of the integration into the own life, represents another milestone of the path there. Very good and suitable for the case of reluctance and emergence of distaste for reading as a preventive measure for a reading crash is the last chapter.
In this short and concise, by the mention of prejudices and utilizing simple ways for implementation in everyday life, interest is stirred up. For advanced to professionals, there is little new knowledge because of the full range of topics focused on understanding and thus not so many subject-specific explanations. Which is why the reading would instead be recommended to interested non-specialists. However, they find a work that is rarely written in this clarity and user-friendliness that may be considered as one of the best possible starting points for a potential budding Buddhist career.
Grandioser, objektiver und übersichtlicher Einstieg in die Materie samt einer Überdosis Weisheiten
Als Überblick verschaffender und sowohl die geschichtlichen als auch philosophischen Aspekte gut abgewogen vereinigender Ratgeber kommt dieses Mitglied der durchwegs sehr guten „Dummies“ Familie daher.
Wie als Teil des Markenzeichens und des Widererkennungswerts wegen etabliert, zieren einige Piktogramme zur zusätzlichen Gabe von Übersichtlichkeit die Seiten, um die subjektiv relevanten Aspekte leichter herauspicken zu können. So werden besonders grundlegende oder möglicherweise leicht falsch zu verstehende Erklärungen, Zitate und Anleitungen zum besseren Verständnis hervorgehoben. Um etwa beim wiederholten Lesen die Quintessenz in Form destillierter Lehren wieder leichter verinnerlichen zu können.
Die Einführung erläutert den grundlegenden Unterschied zu anderen Religionen, die zentrale Bedeutung von Reflektion, Achtsamkeit und Güte, die Wechselwirkung von Handeln und Denken, das Entdecken der eigenen Bewusstseinszustände und die Akzeptanz der eigenen Unzulänglichkeit und Unwissenheit. Das als grundlegende Voraussetzung für zukünftige, positive Veränderungen und die Befreiung vom vermeidbaren Leiden.
Im geschichtlichen Teil des Buches widmet sich ein breites Sammelsurium an Erzählungen und Überlieferungen dem Leben des namensgebenden Gründervaters, bevor es an die Schilderung der Entstehung der unterschiedlichen Schulen samt deren Schwerpunktsetzung geht. Bedingt durch das tolerante Grundparadigma konnten sich vielfältige Auslegungsformen der Lehre etablieren, die durch ihre Verschiedenheit den Bedürfnissen und Vorstellungen fast jedes Sinnsuchenden in irgendeiner Art entsprechen dürften. Wenn dieser die für die Findung der passenden Schule erforderliche Zeit und Mühe aufzubringen bereit ist.
Auch wurde im Zuge der Ausbreitung über Indien hinaus die jeweilige Mentalität und kulturelle Einzigartigkeit der Bevölkerungen anderer Staaten noch als zusätzlicher Schub für die Förderung der Vielfalt genutzt. Anstatt wie in anderen Religionen üblich die Diversität in ein enges Korsett vorgefertigter Regeln zu stecken. Diese Offenheit und bis heute andauernde Entwicklung ist einer der großen Unterschiede zu anderen streng hierarchisch und dogmatisch geprägten Religionen. Diese unterscheiden sich in der Auslegungsform leicht voneinander, würden es jedoch niemals wagen von den Grundmaximen abzuweichen. Auch wenn angesichts einer wahren Flut an Fachausdrücken in diesem Kapitel ein wenig Mühsamkeit aufkommen mag, so rechtfertigen die Ideen hinter den fast unaussprechlichen Namen doch eine genauere Betrachtung.
Praxis, traditionelle Schulung eines Buddhisten und Meditation werden in kurzen Kapiteln erläutert. Bei spezifischem diesbezüglichen Interesse wäre aber die Lektüre eines auf den einzelnen Bereich fokussierten Buches anzuraten. Die schiere Fülle an Anleitungen und Praktiken zu bändigen, die noch immer im Wachsen begriffen ist, wird kaum je eine Bibliothek, geschweige denn eine Bücherregal Herr werden können. Die Meditation wächst, im Gegensatz zu auswendig zu rezitierenden Geboten und Bibeltexten, mit dem Praktizierenden mit. Sie kann daher nach dessen individuellen Präferenzen nach Erlangung der Grundkenntnisse leicht abgewandelt, modifiziert und weiterentwickelt werden. Somit trägt tendenziell jeder Mensch ein Potential zur Entfaltung seiner Kapazitäten in der Gestaltung einzigartiger Meditationspraktiken in sich.
Das Kapitel zur Beschreitung des buddhistischen Weges ist stärker auf die theoretischen Aspekte wie Erleuchtung, Umgang mit Vergänglichkeit und Tod, Entfaltung des eigenen Potentials, Karma und den Lebensgeschichten buddhistischer Meister konzentriert. Es bietet aber auch Augen öffnende Erkenntnisse und berührt, wie am Beispiel der Todesmeditation veranschaulicht, zutiefst. Diese mitunter unangenehmen Wahrheiten zu akzeptieren und den Versuch der Einbindung in das eigene Leben zu wagen, stellt einen weiteren Meilenstein des Pfades da.
Sehr gut und für den Fall von Durchhängern und Aufkommen von Leseunlust als Präventionsmaßnahme für Leseabbruch geeignet ist das letzte Kapitel. In diesem wird kurz und prägnant, anhand von der Erwähnung von Vorurteilen und mittels einfachen Möglichkeiten zur Implementierung im Alltag, Interesse geschürt.
Für Fortgeschrittene bis Profis bietet sich ,wegen des breit gestreuten und auf Verständnis und damit wenig allzu fachspezifische Erläuterungen fokussierten Themenkreises, wenig neues Wissen. Weswegen die Lektüre eher interessierten Laien anzuraten wäre. Diese finden dafür aber ein in dieser Übersichtlichkeit und Benutzerfreundlichkeit selten geschriebenes Werk, dass als einer der durchaus bestmöglichen Startpunkte für eine potentielle, angehende Buddhistenkarriere bezeichnet werden darf.
Please note that I put the original German text at the end of this review. Just if you might be interested.
This member of the very good "Dummies" family comes along as an overview providing both the historical and philosophical aspects of well-balanced unifying advisers. As established as part of the brand name and recognition value, some pictograms adorn the pages for added clarity, to pick out the subjectively relevant aspects more easily.
It highlights mainly fundamental or potentially misunderstood explanations, quotes, and guidance for better understanding. To be able to internalize the quintessence in the form of distilled teachings more easily, for example, with repeated reading. The introduction explains the fundamental difference to other religions, the central meaning of reflection, mindfulness and goodness, the interaction of action and thinking, the discovery of one's states of consciousness and the acceptance of one's inadequacy and ignorance.
This as a fundamental requirement for future, positive changes and the liberation from avoidable suffering. In the historical part of the book, an immense collection of narratives and traditions is dedicated to the life of the eponymous founding father before it goes to the description of the emergence of the different schools and their emphasis. Due to the underlying tolerant paradigm, various forms of interpretation of the doctrine could establish themselves, which by their diversity should correspond in some way to the needs and ideas of almost every seeker of meaning. If he is willing to spend the time and effort required to find the right school.
Besides, in the course of its expansion beyond India, the particular mentality and cultural uniqueness of the populations of other states has been used as an additional boost for the promotion of diversity. Instead of putting variety in a tight corset of ready-made rules, as in other religions. This openness and ongoing development to this day are one of the significant differences between separate strictly hierarchical and dogmatic beliefs.
These differ slightly in their interpretation from each other, but would never dare to deviate from the fundamental maxims. Even though a bit of effort may be made in the face of a flood of technical terms in this chapter, the ideas behind the almost ineffable names justify a closer look. Practice, traditional training of a Buddhist and meditation are explained in short sections. In the case of specific interest in this regard, however, it would be advisable to read a book focused on the individual field.
The sheer abundance of manuals and practices that are still growing will hardly ever be mastered by a library, let alone a bookshelf. The meditation increases with the practitioner, as opposed to reciting commandments and biblical texts. It can, therefore, be slightly modified, varied and developed according to its individual preferences after obtaining the necessary knowledge. Thus, each person tends to have the potential to build their capacity to design unique meditation practices.
The Buddhist Pathway chapter focuses more on the theoretical aspects of enlightenment, dealing with transience and death, unfolding one's potential, karma, and the life stories of Buddhist masters. However, it also offers eye-opening insights and touches, as exemplified by the example of death meditation, profoundly.
To accept these sometimes unpleasant truths and to venture the attempt of the integration into the own life, represents another milestone of the path there. Very good and suitable for the case of reluctance and emergence of distaste for reading as a preventive measure for a reading crash is the last chapter.
In this short and concise, by the mention of prejudices and utilizing simple ways for implementation in everyday life, interest is stirred up. For advanced to professionals, there is little new knowledge because of the full range of topics focused on understanding and thus not so many subject-specific explanations. Which is why the reading would instead be recommended to interested non-specialists. However, they find a work that is rarely written in this clarity and user-friendliness that may be considered as one of the best possible starting points for a potential budding Buddhist career.
Grandioser, objektiver und übersichtlicher Einstieg in die Materie samt einer Überdosis Weisheiten
Als Überblick verschaffender und sowohl die geschichtlichen als auch philosophischen Aspekte gut abgewogen vereinigender Ratgeber kommt dieses Mitglied der durchwegs sehr guten „Dummies“ Familie daher.
Wie als Teil des Markenzeichens und des Widererkennungswerts wegen etabliert, zieren einige Piktogramme zur zusätzlichen Gabe von Übersichtlichkeit die Seiten, um die subjektiv relevanten Aspekte leichter herauspicken zu können. So werden besonders grundlegende oder möglicherweise leicht falsch zu verstehende Erklärungen, Zitate und Anleitungen zum besseren Verständnis hervorgehoben. Um etwa beim wiederholten Lesen die Quintessenz in Form destillierter Lehren wieder leichter verinnerlichen zu können.
Die Einführung erläutert den grundlegenden Unterschied zu anderen Religionen, die zentrale Bedeutung von Reflektion, Achtsamkeit und Güte, die Wechselwirkung von Handeln und Denken, das Entdecken der eigenen Bewusstseinszustände und die Akzeptanz der eigenen Unzulänglichkeit und Unwissenheit. Das als grundlegende Voraussetzung für zukünftige, positive Veränderungen und die Befreiung vom vermeidbaren Leiden.
Im geschichtlichen Teil des Buches widmet sich ein breites Sammelsurium an Erzählungen und Überlieferungen dem Leben des namensgebenden Gründervaters, bevor es an die Schilderung der Entstehung der unterschiedlichen Schulen samt deren Schwerpunktsetzung geht. Bedingt durch das tolerante Grundparadigma konnten sich vielfältige Auslegungsformen der Lehre etablieren, die durch ihre Verschiedenheit den Bedürfnissen und Vorstellungen fast jedes Sinnsuchenden in irgendeiner Art entsprechen dürften. Wenn dieser die für die Findung der passenden Schule erforderliche Zeit und Mühe aufzubringen bereit ist.
Auch wurde im Zuge der Ausbreitung über Indien hinaus die jeweilige Mentalität und kulturelle Einzigartigkeit der Bevölkerungen anderer Staaten noch als zusätzlicher Schub für die Förderung der Vielfalt genutzt. Anstatt wie in anderen Religionen üblich die Diversität in ein enges Korsett vorgefertigter Regeln zu stecken. Diese Offenheit und bis heute andauernde Entwicklung ist einer der großen Unterschiede zu anderen streng hierarchisch und dogmatisch geprägten Religionen. Diese unterscheiden sich in der Auslegungsform leicht voneinander, würden es jedoch niemals wagen von den Grundmaximen abzuweichen. Auch wenn angesichts einer wahren Flut an Fachausdrücken in diesem Kapitel ein wenig Mühsamkeit aufkommen mag, so rechtfertigen die Ideen hinter den fast unaussprechlichen Namen doch eine genauere Betrachtung.
Praxis, traditionelle Schulung eines Buddhisten und Meditation werden in kurzen Kapiteln erläutert. Bei spezifischem diesbezüglichen Interesse wäre aber die Lektüre eines auf den einzelnen Bereich fokussierten Buches anzuraten. Die schiere Fülle an Anleitungen und Praktiken zu bändigen, die noch immer im Wachsen begriffen ist, wird kaum je eine Bibliothek, geschweige denn eine Bücherregal Herr werden können. Die Meditation wächst, im Gegensatz zu auswendig zu rezitierenden Geboten und Bibeltexten, mit dem Praktizierenden mit. Sie kann daher nach dessen individuellen Präferenzen nach Erlangung der Grundkenntnisse leicht abgewandelt, modifiziert und weiterentwickelt werden. Somit trägt tendenziell jeder Mensch ein Potential zur Entfaltung seiner Kapazitäten in der Gestaltung einzigartiger Meditationspraktiken in sich.
Das Kapitel zur Beschreitung des buddhistischen Weges ist stärker auf die theoretischen Aspekte wie Erleuchtung, Umgang mit Vergänglichkeit und Tod, Entfaltung des eigenen Potentials, Karma und den Lebensgeschichten buddhistischer Meister konzentriert. Es bietet aber auch Augen öffnende Erkenntnisse und berührt, wie am Beispiel der Todesmeditation veranschaulicht, zutiefst. Diese mitunter unangenehmen Wahrheiten zu akzeptieren und den Versuch der Einbindung in das eigene Leben zu wagen, stellt einen weiteren Meilenstein des Pfades da.
Sehr gut und für den Fall von Durchhängern und Aufkommen von Leseunlust als Präventionsmaßnahme für Leseabbruch geeignet ist das letzte Kapitel. In diesem wird kurz und prägnant, anhand von der Erwähnung von Vorurteilen und mittels einfachen Möglichkeiten zur Implementierung im Alltag, Interesse geschürt.
Für Fortgeschrittene bis Profis bietet sich ,wegen des breit gestreuten und auf Verständnis und damit wenig allzu fachspezifische Erläuterungen fokussierten Themenkreises, wenig neues Wissen. Weswegen die Lektüre eher interessierten Laien anzuraten wäre. Diese finden dafür aber ein in dieser Übersichtlichkeit und Benutzerfreundlichkeit selten geschriebenes Werk, dass als einer der durchaus bestmöglichen Startpunkte für eine potentielle, angehende Buddhistenkarriere bezeichnet werden darf.
September 16, 2023
Nutze es als Grundlagen- und Nachschlagewerk, werde meine Zeit brauchen, alles gründlich zu studieren.
Umfangreiche Informationen zu Geschichte, Strömungen u.v.m., auch praxisorientiert.
Umfangreiche Informationen zu Geschichte, Strömungen u.v.m., auch praxisorientiert.
October 13, 2019
Amazing! Changed my life!
This book is as profound as it is awesome. The positive impact it has made on my life is immeasurable. The ignorance it has removed from me concerning Asia is unbelievable, I can’t believe I was so ignorant of Asia. I am so impressed by Asia for the creation and spread of this wonderful religion, namely Buddhism. I highly recommend this delightful, informative and at times humorous book especially if you are a beginner like me. You will definitely not regret it!
This book is as profound as it is awesome. The positive impact it has made on my life is immeasurable. The ignorance it has removed from me concerning Asia is unbelievable, I can’t believe I was so ignorant of Asia. I am so impressed by Asia for the creation and spread of this wonderful religion, namely Buddhism. I highly recommend this delightful, informative and at times humorous book especially if you are a beginner like me. You will definitely not regret it!
March 27, 2013
A good introduction, but I was surprised about the lack of practical advice on getting started.
April 14, 2008
i've read quite a few books on buddhism, and this is the best guide i've found. it is written in language that is easy to understand, contains a great glossary of buddhist terms, explains traditions and beliefs very clearly, and is a wonderful resource to grab when the practice gets confusing. this is the first "dummies" book i've read, and i'm really impressed!
July 25, 2013
As with all the Dummies books, this was a good, comprehensive introduction, and I would recommend it as such.
January 27, 2021
Let me start with a disclaimer: I was raised Catholic and after a series of "disappointment" with God, I became agnostic. I have struggled since that time to find a spiritual sect that fits into my belief system and personal values. People have suggested Buddhism for quite some time, but "where does one start such research?"
So, I started right where I would for any self-taught subject "...for Dummies" and was not disappointed. This book goes into some history, some overview, some rules and even some practices to try on your own.
I will read more on this religion/belief system now that I have a solid foundation.
So, I started right where I would for any self-taught subject "...for Dummies" and was not disappointed. This book goes into some history, some overview, some rules and even some practices to try on your own.
I will read more on this religion/belief system now that I have a solid foundation.
May 16, 2018
A good and complete guide to understand the basics of Budhism. Easy to read and with lots of information for beginners.
May 9, 2023
encore un livre qui a changé ma vie
November 1, 2018
4.5
Sehr umfangreiches und mit Informationen voll gepacktes Buch. Nichts was man mal eben wegliest aber super spannend und genau das was ich gesucht habe um einen Eindruck vom Buddhismus zu bekommen
Sehr umfangreiches und mit Informationen voll gepacktes Buch. Nichts was man mal eben wegliest aber super spannend und genau das was ich gesucht habe um einen Eindruck vom Buddhismus zu bekommen
May 11, 2020
Buddhism for Dummies by Johnathan Landaw and Stephan Bodian is a rather comprehensive manual. It covers the following - Part 1: Introducing Buddhism, Part 2: Buddhism Past and Present, Part 3: Buddhism in Practice, Part 4: Travelling the Buddhist Path, Part 5: The Part of Tens, and Part 6: Appendixes. And in the conclusion of the text is an Index.
The book presents readers with an understanding of Buddhism. It covers Buddhism’s main themes and currents without a lot of technical jargon. Where technical jargon is used it’s succinctly explained, and there’s a glossary for the reader to refresh his mind. A purely theoretical approach to Buddha’s teachings is avoided, but many of his insights could be applied to the lives people live today. Personal names are cited from the ancient Indian languages of Pali and Sanskrit in which the Buddhist Scripture was first written. These spellings are simplified whenever possible. Included are different Buddhist traditions and schools as Buddhism moved to other Asian countries. All icons used in the book are explained in the introductory pages. A reader will find the material in the book informative and enjoyable.
The book presents readers with an understanding of Buddhism. It covers Buddhism’s main themes and currents without a lot of technical jargon. Where technical jargon is used it’s succinctly explained, and there’s a glossary for the reader to refresh his mind. A purely theoretical approach to Buddha’s teachings is avoided, but many of his insights could be applied to the lives people live today. Personal names are cited from the ancient Indian languages of Pali and Sanskrit in which the Buddhist Scripture was first written. These spellings are simplified whenever possible. Included are different Buddhist traditions and schools as Buddhism moved to other Asian countries. All icons used in the book are explained in the introductory pages. A reader will find the material in the book informative and enjoyable.
December 17, 2014
This is the first book I've read from the "For Dummies" series. I thought this one was a terrific introduction to Buddhism. Very informative on all levels and really quite insightful. The tone was just right: friendly, down-to-earth, supportive, and humorous. The amount of information conveyed was, looking back on it, pretty staggering, yet I found it read like a novel. My overall impression: Well, I checked out a public library copy, and then purchased my own before I'd finished reading the one I'd borrowed. This is a book I'll go back to again and again for the rest of my life. If you have more than a passing interest in Buddhism, but are not yet a serious practitioner, I can't recommend it too highly.
December 1, 2014
A very complete overview of Buddhism, its history, teachings, different schools, and ways to practice Buddhism in everyday life. This book imparts a lot of knowledge in its 364 pages, and offers a number of suggestions for future reading and study.
Overall, I was very happy with this book, although I would have liked to have seen more detailed information and comparisons of the various schools of Buddhism that were covered.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in Buddhism, whether as a future adherent, or as one seeking knowledge on the topic. This book should serve either type of seeker admirably.
Overall, I was very happy with this book, although I would have liked to have seen more detailed information and comparisons of the various schools of Buddhism that were covered.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in Buddhism, whether as a future adherent, or as one seeking knowledge on the topic. This book should serve either type of seeker admirably.
December 20, 2018
Much better than one might think from the title. The book takes a decidedly insider (emic) approach to the topic. Since I met Jonathan Landaw, I took a close look at it and started using it as a textbook. Students find it easy to read, yet it also contains lots of important information. The topics are not always presented in the order i would have chosen, but then that is true for every textbook.
July 20, 2019
Excellent introduction to Buddhism. I really enjoyed this book and learned a lot of things too. How is a Dalai Lama chosen, which are the main principles of Buddhishm, the meaning of many of Buddha's teachings. I liked that the book focuses on the fact that you can take away the messages you want from Buddhism. I did not give the book five stars, as I might have expected it to go deeper on the history of Buddhism for instance.
March 27, 2017
Good book for a start, but as a person who doesn't live in North America I don't think it's meant for everyone because it uses a large space to list the history and locations of Buddhist monasteries and practices in North America. Also it tries to present Buddhism from a very Western and politically correct point of view not giving people a real taste of Asian Buddhism.
December 25, 2019
Cumple su objetivo: enseñar qué es el budismo.
Le he quitado una estrella por algo muy particular, y es, ¡que continuamente está referenciando otras partes del libro! ¡Incluso dentro de un capítulo se pone a referenciar el propio capítulo adelante y atrás!
Esto ha hecho que me resulte mucho más pesada la lectura, pero seguro que habrá quien sepa apreciarlo más que yo.
Le he quitado una estrella por algo muy particular, y es, ¡que continuamente está referenciando otras partes del libro! ¡Incluso dentro de un capítulo se pone a referenciar el propio capítulo adelante y atrás!
Esto ha hecho que me resulte mucho más pesada la lectura, pero seguro que habrá quien sepa apreciarlo más que yo.
May 29, 2019
All of the answers to your questions are within.
You just have to shut up and listen.
Unfortunately, not everyone loves to relish in solitude like I do. Meditation is a daily practice for me.
This book was a quick, interesting and entertaining read.
You just have to shut up and listen.
Unfortunately, not everyone loves to relish in solitude like I do. Meditation is a daily practice for me.
This book was a quick, interesting and entertaining read.
July 24, 2018
The thorough introduction to modern Buddhism that I was looking for!
July 28, 2018
This was a thorough introduction to Buddhism. It was clear and concise and detailed.
June 3, 2019
Fantastic overview of Buddhism across its many traditions.
October 23, 2020
Really not a bad guide for beginners. Worth getting.
July 3, 2023
Giga intéressant même si en soit c'est le bouddhisme qui est intéressant pas le livre.
Après je trouve que le livre est agencé d'une manière qui permet de ne pas se lasser.
Après je trouve que le livre est agencé d'une manière qui permet de ne pas se lasser.
April 14, 2025
In my white Lotus season three era. Solid guide on the history and practice of Buddhism.
March 30, 2017
It is rare for me to read anything about Buddhism and come away without some sort of insight or knowledge. This book is no exception. I skipped a few chapters and skimmed a few others, but overall I found this book to be most informative and entertaining. The For Dummies series, along with the ...For Complete Idiots books are almost always a good read. This particular volume went over the basic teachings of Buddhism, as well as the fundamentals Buddhist history, philosophy, and practices. The three (or four) main branches of Buddhism are presented, along with numerous descriptions of meditative practices, teaching stories, notable practitioners, and a long appendix of books for further reading, websites for viewing, and a glossary of terms.
All in all, a good introduction. I feel as though I have a solid footing in the basics of Buddhism, and have for some time now. The insights into the mind, and into the realities of life in this tradition are quite remarkable. I am learning and growing a ton, spiritually.
All in all, a good introduction. I feel as though I have a solid footing in the basics of Buddhism, and have for some time now. The insights into the mind, and into the realities of life in this tradition are quite remarkable. I am learning and growing a ton, spiritually.
October 30, 2016
This book fulfills its stated purpose as a straightforward 101 text on Buddhism. It is unusual in that it offers the history of Buddhism as a social phenomenon before outlining the actual tenets of Buddhism as a spiritual practice; this structure makes sense once you understand that 'Buddhism' is, more than anything, a broad umbrella-doctrine that has been adopted and modified across thousands of cultures and sub-cultures. There are but handful of principles that are accepted by all practices falling under this umbrella.
This book is refreshingly free from the cliche platitudes that westerners would normally attribute to Buddhism. The authors have a good awareness of their target audience.
This book is refreshingly free from the cliche platitudes that westerners would normally attribute to Buddhism. The authors have a good awareness of their target audience.
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