Throw Yourself into the House of Buddha: The Life and Zen Teachings of Tangen Harada Roshi

by Tangen Harada, Bodhin Kjolhede (Afterword), Belenda Attaway Yamakawa (Translator)

From narrowly surviving World War II through enduring the profound rigors of traditional Zen training, Tangen Harada’s fascinating life story and teachings present a classic picture of the Buddhist journey from suffering to realization.

On August 15, 1945, at the age of twenty, Tangen Harada stood on an airfield and prepared to board the airplane on which he would undertake a suicide mission for his country. Only the voice of Emperor Hirohito on the radio—never before heard by the Japanese public—announcing Japan’s surrender saved his life. After returning from a Soviet POW camp in 1946, overcome with questions about the meaning of human life and suffering, Harada sought out the counsel of a Zen master. He thus embarked on the path of awakening and liberation to which he would commit the rest of his life, eventually teaching thousands of people from around the world.  

Throw Yourself into the House of Buddha includes Tangen Roshi’s life story in his own words, as well as twenty-four teachings conveying the heart of his Zen understanding. Each chapter, paired with a beautiful calligraphy by the master, conveys his direct, uncompromising, yet encouraging message about the possibility of Zen realization. 

“Wake up,” writes Harada, “and you can say for yourself, ‘The sun is my eye, the wind my breath, all of space my heart, the mountain and ocean my body. The sun shining brightly, vividly, is the eye of my life. The vastness of the sky is my heart.’ Who is the master of this boundless heart? No one else but you. This is your reality. Heaven and earth—same root, all things—one body.”

Genres: Religion, Zen, Nonfiction, Philosophy, History, Self Help, Spirituality

192 pages, Paperback

Published August 8, 2023

Reviews

[Ma'Sheka Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I initially embarked on my journey with this book through a book club, where we delved into one chapter per week. Surprisingly, each chapter seemed to reflect moments in my own life, creating an intriguing parallel between the book’s teachings and my experiences. I found it incredibly engaging and enjoyable! I highly recommend it. What’s fascinating is that you can pick any chapter and dive in; there’s no need to follow a strict chronological order. This book is a treasure trove of wisdom, touching on concepts of zen, mindfulness, and practical application. Reading it was a transformative experience, and I’m grateful for the insights it brought into my life. One of the most significant lessons I took away is the importance of consistent practice, regardless of how we feel, as it ultimately shapes the trajectory of our lives.

[Don Flynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

There was not much new here for me, but Tangen Harada Roshi's path to Buddhism is interesting, forged after almost flying a kamikaze mission near the end of World War II. The sense of his enthusiasm and devotion to the path really come through in the talks reprinted here. I genuinely felt inspired to practice more.

[Greg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I usually leave these reviews to others but Roshi really, REALLY made Buddhism very clear to understand!! Other books I’ve read are too oh, I don’t know what the word would be. Too fuddy duddy, haha! So anyway this is a book that I would certainly recommend!!!! I loved it so much!

[William Sommer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful. Brought me to the cushion.

[Ellen Gwynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good; so simple; so challenging!

[Deviprasadh · Rating 5 out of 5]

if you were to read the only dharma book, id recommend this. Short, precise & sublime. Will require 3-4 re readings to grasp completely.