Much as the "WWJD?" books help some people live better lives by drawing on the wisdom of Jesus, this "WWBD?" book provides valuable advice on improving one's life by following the wisdom of Buddha.

In the aftermath of the terrorist attacks of September 11, this thought-provoking essay explores the Buddha's teaching to find one prescription: not war, not pacifism but nonviolence.

Millions of people meditate daily but can meditative practices really make us ‘better’ people? In The Buddha Pill, pioneering psychologists Dr Miguel Farias and Catherine Wikholm put meditation and mindfulness under the microscope. Separating fact from fiction, they reveal what scientific research – including their groundbreaking study on yoga and meditation with prisoners – tells us about the benefits and limitations of these techniques for improving our lives. As well as illuminating the potential, the authors argue that these practices may have unexpected consequences, and that peace and happiness may not always be the end result. Offering a compelling examination of research on transcendental meditation to recent brain-imaging studies on the effects of mindfulness and yoga, and with fascinating contributions from spiritual teachers and therapists, Farias and Wikholm weave together a unique story about the science and the delusions of personal change.

Third Palestine: A Regional Study in Byzantine Urbanization, unlocks the mystery of civilization in the Negev Desert of Israel in antiquity. What was the reason for the development of towns and cities in this arid zone, and why did its residents construct magnificent churches and edifices, are questions that this work seeks to answer. How did the inhabitants of this civilization work and live, and why did they achieve wealth and prosperity, are issues which chart the course of the book. Professor Gutwein, who has spent over a decade in the Middle East, interprets the remains of Christian churches and towns in this region, all the while focusing upon the historical documents and sources to analyze these questions. The land of the region, its historical geography, and provincial framework, are all investigated; while original maps, charts, and illustrations guide the reader through sites history has long forgotten. The urban framework of the province the Romans called Third Palestine is clearly illuminated in this work, and town sites and urban architecture are analyzed in depth. Third Palestine investigates the commercial role of the myriad cities and towns in the region by detailing the pilgrim trade, and the lucrative trade in spices. In addition, the military importance of the province is not neglected by the author, who uncovers remains of frontier defense, roads, and garrisons. With a list of 36 figures, and 11 tables, Third Palestine brings to light an important, yet previously neglected ancient civilization.

Weve all said things we lived to regret. But what if we communicated mindfully instead, stopping first to consider how our words might hurt rather than help - or if we need to voice them at all? In What Would Buddha Say?, best - selling author Barbara Ann Kipfer offers 1,501 reminders for staying on the path of positive communication. Based on ancient Buddhist teachings, this portable guide will provide inspiration and tips on how to speak clearly, truthfully, and with lovingkindness. In our modern world, it seems were always in a hurry - usually running on autopilot, and all too quick to make that comment or send that message. But when we communicate without first considering the impact it may have - especially if its idle gossip or false speech - we can create unnecessary conflicts and far - reaching negative consequences. With poor communication at the heart of most misunderstandings and arguments, learning to practice mindful communication, including good listening skills, is key to speaking - or not speaking - with better results in every area of your life. In What Would Buddha Say?, youll find hundreds of instantly accessible and compulsively readable communication tips on giving thoughtful attention to your words so youre more likely to be understood, and less likely to damage your relationships. Based on the concept of Right Speech, an important element of Buddhisms Noble Eightfold Path, these mindful essentials - inspirational quotes and sayings, short essays, and meditation suggestions - will guide you away from harmful speech and into a state of mindfulness from which you can gently speak your truth. There is always room for improvement in terms of communication, and with practice, we can learn to speak mindfully - to say only what is beneficial and true with a kind heart at the right time. Packed with Buddhist wisdom and full of inspiration, What Would Buddha Say? will help you maximize the good in your speech as you take steps toward a more peaceful way of being.

Gold Nautilus Book Award Winner Leading African American Buddhist teachers offer lessons on racism, resilience, spiritual freedom, and the possibility of a truly representative American Buddhism. With contributions by Acharya Gaylon Ferguson, Cheryl A. Giles, Gyōzan Royce Andrew Johnson, Ruth King, Kamilah Majied, Lama Rod Owens, Lama Dawa Tarchin Phillips, Sebene Selassie, and Pamela Ayo Yetunde. What does it mean to be Black and Buddhist? In this powerful collection of writings, African American teachers from all the major Buddhist traditions tell their stories of how race and Buddhist practice have intersected in their lives. The resulting explorations display not only the promise of Buddhist teachings to empower those facing racial discrimination but also the way that Black Buddhist voices are enriching the Dharma for all practitioners. As the first anthology comprised solely of writings by African-descended Buddhist practitioners, this book is an important contribution to the development of the Dharma in the West.

The Buddha never claimed to be anything other than an ordinary human being; he attributed his spiritual search and self-realisation to human effort, understanding and intelligence. But how many of us really take time out to reflect on our potential to usher fundamental changes in our lives and then more importantly, do something about it? This profoundly written book, interspersed with quotes from various masters like Osho, reminds us that the seed of consciousness is already sown-it is our responsibility to make ourselves fertile with practises like meditation to let our true being sprout. The path to follow is of awareness, discovery and transformation. Appa deepo bhava-we are all born with the possibility of becoming a light unto ourselves.