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Buddhism: A Concise Introduction

by Huston Smith and Philip Novak



      It is no surprise that Buddhism: A Concise Introduction is probably the best book on Buddhism ever written since it comes from Huston Smith, revered teacher and author of The World's Religions, and Philip Novak, professor of philosophy and religion and author of The World's Wisdom, an anthology of sacred religious texts. As skilled teachers, Smith and Novak present a clear and concise description of what Buddhism really is. Often mired in ambiguity and contradiction, most texts on the subject are confusing and difficult to wade through. Buddhism: A Concise Introduction, however, is written in everyday language that boils down complex concepts. The authors lead the reader carefully through muddling issues and clearly explain terminology.

Beginning with the life of the Buddha, the book roots the rest of Buddhism's teachings in a framework that clarifies many of what, to Western minds, are often negative attitudes about life, death, and enlightenment. For example, the Buddha is often quoted, "It is therefore unwise to have a sense of ownership for people who are united with us." This implies that we shouldn't be attached to people, to care for them. This statement comes from the Buddha's realization that we are mortals, that life is finite, that death exists. This is powerful, coming from a rich young man who lived for pleasure and had been kept from the harsh realities of life.

From this point, Smith and Novak continue to take the reader through the evolution of Buddhism and into its many different forms in the East. Then, the authors explore how Buddhism came to Europe and eventually to America. They explain the variations of American Buddhism today and how challenging multiculturalism is on religions of the world.

Buddhism: A Concise Introduction is a text as opposed to a persuasive book on a specific form of Buddhism or on a particular insight of this path. It is a description of the roots of Buddhism, its variations and forms, and how it has been transformed by other cultures and societies. If you are interested in finding out what Buddhism is about, Buddhism: A Concise Introduction is definitely the book to read.

The Book

HarperSanFrancisco
December 2004
Trade paperback
0060730676
Non-fiction, religion
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Excerpt
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The Reviewer

Janie Franz
Reviewed 2005
NOTE: Author of Freelance Writing: It's a Business, Stupid!, Relaxation Techniques for Children, Relaxation Techniques for Adults; Co-author of The Ultimate Wedding Reception Book and The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Book. Coming Soon: The Ultimate Wedding Workbook, Get Rich on Love, and Sacred Breath (a sound recording of relaxation meditations).
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