Sweet Zen: Dharma Talks from Cheri Huber

by Sara Jenkins

Offering the unusual perspective on the softness and sweetness to be discovered in the Zen path., which has long been associated with formality and even harshness, this book includes the traditional rigor of Zen practice, but is balanced and eased with ever-growing compassion for the self and for the suffering caused by the delusion that we are separate from all that is.

Genres: Buddhism, Nonfiction, Spirituality, Zen

200 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2000

Reviews

[Amira · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started getting sad towards the end because I was enjoying this book so much. I’ll reference it for years to come. It’ll be my new “coffee table” book. So easy to take in. If you have no experience with Buddhism or spirituality, some of it might sound oversimplified, or even seem harsh or untrue. But somewhere along our paths, it becomes more appealing to surrender and recognize and see truth when it is presented. When reading these books, it’s important to remain open.

Of all I’ve read on Buddhist/Zen practices, this has been the “simplest” and most inspirational read. For anyone open and interested, or currently somewhere on their spiritual path, this book will be a source of calm in your day and cha(lle)nge you in some way.

[April Wegesin · Rating 1 out of 5]

I’ve tried several times to finish this and I just can’t. It’s not even long and should be a quick read but I lose interest every time I pick it up. I like the concept though, which is why I’ve tried several times.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Each chapter provides a short insightful nugget of wisdom to digest. A perfect kick start to a daily meditation practice. Highly recommended.

[Frank Jude · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third time through this slim, little book for me. Two of those times, including just now, has been as readings to my Yoga Classes. I generally begin my classes with a reading, and then a short commentary or exploration of the themes from the reading. This becomes the theme for the class.

Cheri Huber has written other books, but they are published in a much too cutsey, kind of California, new-age handwritten format and I cannot be bothered with that crap, though I'd be surprised if the content was as bad as the form! She's really a good teacher, as evidenced by this book of "Dharma Talks." Don't let the "Sweet" of the title fool you, she's sweet like Thich Nhat Hanh: ruthlessly honest and persistently challenging to make your practice one of consistency on and off the cushion.

My students have responded to these readings really strongly, often asking for the title and author so that they can buy the book. Often, they tell me, what she says seems to 'hit the nail on the head.' I think this is all interesting because she has been disparaged by folk like James Ishmael Ford in his book, Zen Master Who? because it seems she may not have had the oh, so important and validating "Dharma Transmission" he and most Zen teachers in the west (especially those who have their roots in the Japanese Zen tradition) almost fetishize.

Considering how badly so many Japanese and Western Zen "Masters" so 'authentically validated' and 'legitimized' have acted, I'd say such "Dharma Transmission" is hardly worth the paper their pretty certificates are printed on! For me, the authority is invested in the teacher by the students, and by and through his or her integrity. And, though I've not met her, Huber seems to have real integrity. From reports of those who have studied with her, this seems fair to say.

In any event, this is one hell of a more useful and beneficial book than Zen Master Who? and so many others of that ilk. I, for one, am grateful for it's message, even if there are a few points I feel she misses the target -- but don't we all?

[Dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read this book numerous times. Cheri Huber has a wonderway way of putting things in perspective. The book is broken into several sections and each section has subjects that are just 1-2 pages long. Great for a read before bed, meditation or just about any time. Each time I read it I am struck with the profoundness and the simpleness of her teachings. I often put the book down and say "of course!" I highly recommend this book for you and your friends.

[Cleo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love all of Cheri Huber's books, but this one is special because it's based on her dharma talks, so the tone is very conversational. It covers a wide range of topics, for example, what happens in sitting meditation, why people love going on silent retreats, the difference between "noodling" a decision and just following life's guidance. This book is deceptively simple and full of wisdom.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best collection of short, sweet, moving and perspective-enhancing dharma talks I've read yet. My copy has many bent corners, and I generally do not bend the corners down in books. A challenging delight and a comfort.

[Jeff · Rating 5 out of 5]

one of my favorite, straight talking books about zen. It is easy to understand and makes many of the fundamental points in the practice accessible.