Zen Philosophy, Zen Practice

By Thich Thien-An

Book Overview

The way of Zen holds that reality is to be gotten hold of not externally, but inwardly. The truth is to be found in our own nature and nowhere else. Within each living being is the Buddha nature, the principle of enlightenment.
"To become a Buddha is simply to discover this Buddha nature, always present within, eternally shining. Like the sun, it continually radiates light, but when the clouds pass over, we cannot see it. The goal is to eliminate the clouds, for when they fly away, we can once again see the light."
Thich Thien-An was an eminent Vietnamese master concerned with introducing Zen to Western practitioners. Originally given as public lectures, this book's 14 chapters, emphasize general principles and understanding while covering a range of topics including "Self-Reflection in Zen Buddhism," "Three Essentials of Zen Practice," and "The Matter of Soul in Buddhism."
Each lecture end with a different method of practice used in Zen Buddhism giving readers the opportunity to experience Zen practice and choose from a variety of methods and techniques, those that are most effective for the reader.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 091354633X
• ISBN13: 9780913546338
• Release Date: January 1975
• Publisher: Dharma Publishing
• Length: 192 Pages
• Weight: 0.59 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.4" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

One of the Best Books on Zen

This is one of the best books on Zen Buddhism that has ever been published. Not only does it detail the history and evolution of Zen but it provides the reader with a great set of techniques. This book is a necessary addition to any library on Zen Buddhism.

Great mix of the historical, philosphical and practical zen.

A little known gem in a sea of literature referring to zen buddhism. A book i find myself referring back to more often than any other i own. The first time i read it i gained more insight into the history of zen, where it was coming from, and the people it arrived through. Most importantly at the end of every chapter is a method of practicing zazen. This, along with the stress on practicing zen principles in daily life is why i would highly recommend this book to the beginning zen practitioner.