Dimensions
128 x 198 x 13mm
To the Western eye, it seems impossible to live in the twenty-first century and remain untainted by gain and loss, fame and disgrace, praise and blame, happiness and sorrow. Yet Buddhism claims that it can be done, partly by practising generosity and turning away from selfish concerns. Originating in India some 2,500 years ago, Buddhism is one of the most influential religions in the world, now established in Europe, Australia and the Americas as well as Asia.
Donald Lopez, a world authority on Buddhism, has mined a great many Buddhist scriptures to present us with this richly informative introduction to the subject. His main focus is on the daily practice of Buddhism; in monasteries, by lay people, by the Dalai Lama and even by Buddha himself.
Lopez examines the central tenets of the religion and explores the ways they become steps towards the ultimate goal of enlightenment. Full of Buddhist stories - some miraculous, some humorous - Donald Lopez's book offers a fresh perspective on the Buddhist life.