The latest book in Chronicle's best-selling collection of tiny treasuries combines our winning chunky format and copious colorful artwork with the eternal wisdom of the Buddha. 1,001 Pearls of Buddhist Wisdom is an inspiring collection of teachings drawn from traditional sources, such as the Zen philosophy of Japan and the tantric practices of Tibet, as well as European thinkers and contemporary Buddhists. Themed sections address such basic human themes as good and bad karma, developing empathy, and how to be happy. Also included are clear explanations of key Buddhist concepts and accounts of historical moments. Full of accessible Eastern teachings, 1,001 Pearls of Buddhist Wisdom offers insights to inspire, instruct, and set readers on the path to nirvana.

Buddhism has influenced Western thinking like no other Eastern religion, and even people who have no interest in adopting it wholeheartedly, acknowledge the wisdom of its philosophical insights. 1001 Pearls of Buddhist Wisdom is an inspiring collection of the wisest, most enlightening and most comforting Buddhist thought, drawn from the various schools within this ancient spiritual tradition. The book covers basic themes of universal relevance - such as the beauty of nature, good and bad karma, the importance of empathy, how to deal with stress and anxiety, how to meditate successfully, how to be happy, and the joy to be found in service to others. Part one examines the life of the Buddha, his place in history and his teachings. Part two illustrates Buddhist thought with quotes - the wealth of quotations comes from teachers, thinkers and gurus through the ages and across the world, from the Buddha himself to Arthur Schopenhauer and other (not necessarily Buddhist) thinkers of the European tradition, as well as leading Buddhists of today such as the 14th Dalai Lama. Part three demonstrates how the Buddha is all around us and how we can embrace that into our lives. Full of accessible Eastern wisdom, this is a book to explore in a spirit of joyous, hopeful adventure - there is so much here to inspire, instruct, and help you find the road to inner peace and happiness... and even, perhaps, nirvana.

This book is a brief, but comprehensive and encyclopedic study handbook of Buddhist cosmology, hagiology, and terminology. Most entries are explanatory essays based on the teachings of Tripitaka Master Hsuan Hua explaining hundreds of Buddhist terms, personages, lists, and concepts. The book also indexes Chinese, Pali, and Sanskrit terms, providing clear and accessible explanations. The book also provides a brief study guide for both novice and advanced seekers of enlightenment. Most entries also end with notation that refers the reader to related entries. Reviews Provides the right mix of scholarly attention and accessible language. —David Batstone, University of San Francisco Department of Theology & Religious Studies Have you confused karma with dharma? Amida with Gautama? The Five Desires with the Eightfold Path? Then Ronald Epstein’s Buddhism A to Z can provide a little enlightenment. Geared for English-speaking Westerners who want to know more about Buddhism, this alphabetical dictionary covers everything from the role of an abbot to the contributions of Zen. —Publishers Weekly A comprehensive handbook, not only useful for the interested beginner but also a treasury of teachings for the experienced practitioner. —Ajahn Amaro, Co-abbot Abhayagiri Monastery, Redwood Valley, CA

Addressing questions such as What constitutes a meaningful life? and What is true happiness?, this guide to Nichiren Buddhism presents the spiritual practice as a teaching of hope that can answer these and other important questions of modern life. Buddhist teacher Daisaku Ikeda offers insights into The Opening of the Eyes, a longer treatise written by Nichiren that calls for individuals to base themselves on a spirit of compassion and to fight for the happiness of others, regardless of the circumstances. Ikeda’s simple and straightforward commentary brings this integral writing to life for a contemporary readership. Through the text and the accompanying commentary, readers will not will discover a philosophy of inner transformation that will help them find deep and lasting happiness for themselves and for others.

What is the subtle relationship between mind and body? What can today's scientists learn about this relationship from masters of Buddhist thought? Is it possible that by combining Western and Eastern approaches, we can reach a new understanding of the nature of the mind, the human potential for growth, the possibilities for mental and physical health? MindScience explores these and other questions as it documents the beginning of a historic dialogue between modern science and Buddhism. The Harvard Mind Science Symposium brought together the Dalai Lama and authorities from the fields of psychiatry, psychology, neuroscience, and education. Here, they examine myriad questions concerning the nature of the mind and its relationship to the body.