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Title: Buddhism Plain and Simple by Steve Hagen ISBN: 0-7679-0332-3 Publisher: Broadway Pub. Date: 29 December, 1998 Format: Paperback Volumes: 1 List Price(USD): $10.00 |
Average Customer Rating: 4.48 (86 reviews)
Rating: 2
Summary: INTERESTING BOOK...BUT PLAIN AND "SIMPLE"?
Comment: Buddhism is no stranger to me since I have followed its philosophies for many, many years; however, the mere words contained in the title of this book (plain and simple)indicate it might be particularly insightful to those who are novices or beginners to Buddhism. While this book certainly contains basic knowledge, I question if someone who has little or no prior understanding of the subject could fully comprehend the rather complex philosophies of Buddhism as explained by Mr. Hagen. It is one thing to know the subject, it is quite another matter to be able to explain it in laymen's terms. Through its 159 pages, the book says a lot, but its explanation is often confusing. On the other hand, if you are an experienced follower of these principles, you will probably find the material very elementary indeed, lacking any in-depth substance and extremely repetitious of other similar books.
For those who are just beginning their insightful journey to Buddhism and enlightenment, I highly recommend you begin with the book, "Awakening the Buddha Within," by Lama Surya Das. It is easily understood with Buddhist philosophies adapted to the Western World, and well written in laymen's terms. The book is lengthier and far more complete in subject matter than "Buddhism Plain and Simple". May you find the Buddha within and the spiritual path to enlightenment.
Rating: 4
Summary: Plain and simple, but quite deep
Comment: I'm new to the teachings of the Buddha, and this is the first book I've read on the subject. One thing that attracted me to this book was the author made a point of sidestepping the "cultural trappings" of Buddhism in favor of a down-to-earth explanation of the core concepts.
As I read through this book, I kept thinking to myself... "This is too simple! Why does he keep rehashing the same basic stuff over and over again?" By the time I got to the end, I had my answer. Buddhism, at its core, is really that simple. It's all about being aware, about being here and now. I initially wondered why the author seemed to resist going into detailed explanations, but then I realized that's because no detail is necessary.
This book is refreshing and enjoyable to read. Mr. Hagen has an engaging style that he uses very effectively to drive home the basics of Buddhism. I can think of no drawbacks to this book, and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to learn more about this intriguing religion (or simply life philosophy, depending on how far you wish to take it).
Rating: 5
Summary: Enlightenment without trying
Comment: I've read a number of books about Zen and Buddhism, and feel that this is about the best. Especially for someone like me with a basic understanding this was very helpful. Hagen sets out the history of Buddhism and with few words spells out how you and I can find peace of mind and gain wisdom through simple practices, and without the need of a "guru", "teacher", or "spiritual guide". The author has a clear writing style that gets directly to the point without trying to be too cute or complex. I would recommend this book to any friend.
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Title: Basic Buddhist Concepts by Kogen Mizuno ISBN: 4333012031 Publisher: Charles E Tuttle Co Pub. Date: November, 1987 List Price(USD): $11.95 |
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Title: Buddhism for Dummies by Jonathan Landaw, Stephan Bodian ISBN: 0764553593 Publisher: For Dummies Pub. Date: 24 February, 2003 List Price(USD): $21.99 |
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Title: Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind by Shunryu Suzuki, Shunryu Suzuki ISBN: 0834800799 Publisher: Weatherhill Pub. Date: December, 1997 List Price(USD): $9.95 |
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Title: Buddhism Without Beliefs: A Contemporary Guide to Awakening by Stephen Batchelor ISBN: 1573226564 Publisher: Riverhead Books Pub. Date: March, 1998 List Price(USD): $13.00 |
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Title: How to Practice : The Way to a Meaningful Life by The Dalai Lama, Jeffrey Hopkins ISBN: 0743427084 Publisher: Atria Books Pub. Date: 01 May, 2001 List Price(USD): $20.00 |
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