The Heart of Understanding: Commentaries on the Prajnaparamita Heart Sutra

by Thich Nhat Hanh

Book Overview

A radical new interpretation of the Buddha's most important, most studied teaching, the Heart Sutra--from the great Zen master and peace activist behind The Miracle of Mindfulness. In September 2014,... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0938077112
• ISBN13: 9780938077114
• Release Date: October 1988
• Publisher: Parallax Press
• Length: 60 Pages
• Weight: 0.26 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.2" x 5.4" x 8.0"

Customer Reviews

This is an absolute gem

In a very few words, Thich Nhat Hanh puts in very simple terms what many of us struggle to come to terms with - the esoteric Dharma-teachings on emptiness. Perhaps it's the Zen-born simplicity that makes this treatise so approachable and readable.This would be a good book for newcomers to Buddhism who hear about emptiness and hairs stand up on the back of their neck. A gentle and skilful introduction to profundity.A must read for anyone with an interest in emptiness as applied in our conventional world.

Incredible wisdom made accessible.

Thich Nhat Hanh sheds light on this superb Buddhist text. The paradoxical language of the scripture is important to convey the illusory qualities of emptiness and individual existence. Unfortunately this language makes it extremely difficult to understand. Hanh takes this esoteric teaching and explains it to a child. I recommend any of his sutra translations and commentaries.

Clearly written, very accessible.

This was the first book I read by Thich Nhat Hanh. I had heard a lot about him prior to this. When I read the book, I could easily see why there is so much excitement about him and his works. He writes in a very clear, very accessible style. This book is a commentary on the Heart Sutra. The Heart Sutra is said to contain the essence of Buddhist teachings. I would recommend any book written by Thich Nhat Hanh!

The best commentary on the Heart Sutra I have ever read

He explains the sometimes frightening truths of emptiness in a manner which melts the fears away with understanding. As you read this book, you can feel how much the author wants the reader to understand the text and how much he wants to benefit the reader. It's so easy to just allow your mind to relax and rest on the Sutra as you read through it. Very enjoyable and highly recommended.

Incredible!

I still cannot believe that anyone was able to explain emptiness in such a beautiful fashion. I honestly cried with joy while I read this book. Please read it!