Buddhism for Beginners covers the most fundamental questions and issues that arise in the minds of modern Western individuals who are new to this tradition of practical spirituality. Written in clear and engaged language, this book presents the Buddhist approach to the fundamental issues and concerns of daily life. Thubten Chodron guides us through the basic tenets of Buddhism, encouraging and instructing us how to live a more peaceful, mindful , and satisfying life. She untangles our confusions and leads us through the most basic aspects of this rich, living spiritual tradition.
Buddhism for Beginners, Thubten Chodron, Snow Lion Publications, Paperback, 2001, 160 pages, $14.95
Bhikshuni Thubten Chodron, an American-born Tibetan Buddhist nun, has studied and practiced Buddhism in India and Nepal since 1975. Ven. Chodron travels worldwide teaching and leading meditation retreats and is known for her clear and practical explanations of the Buddha's teachings. She is the author of Buddhism for Beginners, Working with Anger, Taming the Mind, and Open Heart, Clear Mind.
CONTENTS: Buddhism for Beginners
|
Foreword by His Holiness the Dalai Lama
|
7
|
Introduction
|
9
|
1.
|
The Essence of Buddhism
|
13
|
2.
|
The Buddha
|
19
|
3.
|
Love and Compassion
|
27
|
4.
|
Meditation
|
33
|
5.
|
Impermanence and Suffering
|
39
|
6.
|
Selflessness
|
45
|
7.
|
Science, Creation, and Rebirth
|
51
|
8.
|
Karma: The Functioning of Cause and Effect
|
59
|
9.
|
Dying, Death, and the Intermediate State
|
67
|
10.
|
The Buddhist Traditions
|
75
|
11.
|
Vajrayana
|
79
|
12.
|
Steps Along the Path
|
85
|
13.
|
Working with Emotions
|
87
|
14.
|
Dharma in Daily Life
|
95
|
15.
|
Social Activism and Ethical Issues
|
101
|
16.
|
Women and the Dharma
|
113
|
17.
|
Monks, Nuns, and Lay Practitioners
|
117
|
18.
|
Spiritual Teachers
|
125
|
19.
|
Family and Children
|
129
|
20.
|
Shrines and Offerings
|
137
|
21.
|
Prayer, Ritual, and Dedicating Positive Potential
|
143
|
Glossary
|
151
|
Further Reading
|
155
|
Resources
|
159
|
|