Buddha

by Jon Ortner

In the twenty-five centuries since the Buddha's death, his profound teachings and path have guided and enlightened over one and half billion 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 the extraordinary works of art grace this volume. From the buddha carved from a single piece of jade to the largest reclining buddha, the Buddha's wisdom, compassion, and serenity are eternally present. Simple but powerful verses from The Pali Canon, the most important collection of Buddhist teachings, accompany the photographs. Extended notes in the back of the book provide additional information about the individual buddhas. The foreword by Jon Ortner will talk about the creation of the photographs over twenty five years, and the introduction will give the reader an understanding of Buddha's life and some knowledge of his spiritual teachings. It is important to remember that the Buddha was not a god. He was a human teacher in the sixth century B.C.E. who showed others the way to enlightenment through a path he discovered. Millions have followed, and today there are growing legions of Buddhists in the West with perhaps even greater numbers of non-Buddhists influenced by Buddhist thought and practice. Buddha, filled with exquisite images and verse, is bound in the colors of the monks' robes and foil stamped with an artistic rendition of a lotus, the Buddhist symbol of purity and renewal. Startlingly beautiful in its design, the book is a shrine to meditate upon. It is a gift for everyone who loves beauty and welcomes wisdom, and anyone simply looking for an added measure of peace in their lives.

Genres: Nonfiction, Photography

155 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.