The Spirit of the Buddha

The Spirit of ...

by Martine Batchelor

In this slim, enlightening volume, internationally recognized Buddhist teacher Martine Batchelor presents the basic tenets and teachings of the Buddha through a selection of essential texts from the Pali canon, the earliest Buddhist scriptures. Viewed by scholars as the actual substance of the historical teachings (and possibly even the words) of the Buddha, these texts are essential to an understanding of the Buddhist faith, and Batchelor illuminates them with her lucid analysis and interpretations. Both accessible to nonpractitioners and helpful to scholars, The Spirit of the Buddha touches upon key themes, including dharma, compassion, meditation, and peace, among others, creating a panoramic view of one of the world’s most widely practiced faiths that is deeply rooted in its most vital texts.

Genres: Buddhism, Spirituality

179 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2010

Reviews

[Clara · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of the best introductory texts on Buddhism I've read to date. Batchelor writes well and simply, but not simplistically, and does a particularly nice job of dealing with the history of the various schools of Buddhism into the present. She may have over-emphasized Zen a bit, but that's her own tradition, and her coverage was by no means over-bearing.

[Peter · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was looking for more specifically Insight or Mindfulness school of Buddhist meditation. That said, the book was good as a re-inforcement for me of underlying values of Buddhism. In fact, it felt repetitive sometimes. Which I can't blame on the author. She's a better speaker than author.

[Ms. S........... · Rating 3 out of 5]

excellent introductory text. belief and history covered.