Buddhism: A Concise Introduction
by Huston Smith and Philip Novak
It is no surprise that Buddhism: A Concise Introduction is probably the best book
on Buddhism ever written since it comes from Huston Smith, revered teacher and author of
The World's Religions, and Philip Novak, professor of philosophy and religion and
author of The World's Wisdom, an anthology of sacred religious texts. As skilled
teachers, Smith and Novak present a clear and concise description of what Buddhism really
is. Often mired in ambiguity and contradiction, most texts on the subject are confusing
and difficult to wade through. Buddhism: A Concise Introduction, however, is written
in everyday language that boils down complex concepts. The authors lead the reader carefully
through muddling issues and clearly explain terminology.
Beginning with the life of the Buddha, the book roots the rest of Buddhism's teachings
in a framework that clarifies many of what, to Western minds, are often negative attitudes
about life, death, and enlightenment. For example, the Buddha is often quoted, "It is therefore
unwise to have a sense of ownership for people who are united with us." This implies that
we shouldn't be attached to people, to care for them. This statement comes from the Buddha's
realization that we are mortals, that life is finite, that death exists. This is powerful,
coming from a rich young man who lived for pleasure and had been kept from the harsh realities
of life.
From this point, Smith and Novak continue to take the reader through the evolution of
Buddhism and into its many different forms in the East. Then, the authors explore how
Buddhism came to Europe and eventually to America. They explain the variations of American
Buddhism today and how challenging multiculturalism is on religions of the world.
Buddhism: A Concise Introduction is a text as opposed to a persuasive book on
a specific form of Buddhism or on a particular insight of this path. It is a description
of the roots of Buddhism, its variations and forms, and how it has been transformed by
other cultures and societies. If you are interested in finding out what Buddhism is about,
Buddhism: A Concise Introduction is definitely the book to read. |
The Reviewer |
Janie Franz |
Reviewed 2005 |
NOTE: Author of Freelance
Writing: It's a Business, Stupid!, Relaxation Techniques for Children, Relaxation
Techniques for Adults; Co-author of The Ultimate Wedding Reception Book and The
Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Book. Coming Soon: The Ultimate Wedding Workbook, Get
Rich on Love, and Sacred Breath (a sound recording of relaxation meditations). |
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