Being Upright: Zen Meditation and Bodhisattva Precepts

by Reb Anderson

Written in the tradition of Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind, this insightful Zen guide explores how we can apply the Sixteen Bodhisattva precepts to our daily lives   Being Upright takes us beyond the conventional interpretation of ethical precepts to the ultimate meaning that informs them. Reb Anderson first introduces us to the fundamental ideas of Zen Buddhist practice. Who was Shakyamuni Buddha and what was his central teaching? What does it mean to be a bodhisattva and take the bodhisattva vow? Why should we confess and acknowledge our ancient twisted karma? What is the significance of taking refuge in Buddha, dharma, and sangha? The author explores the ten basic precepts, including not killing, not stealing, not lying, not misusing sexuality, and not using intoxicants.   A gifted storyteller, Anderson takes us to the heart of situations, where moral judgments are not easy and we do not have all the answers. With wisdom and compassion, he teaches us how to confront the emotional and ethical turmoil of our lives.

Genres: Buddhism, Zen, Meditation, Nonfiction, Self Help

259 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 1, 2016

Reviews

[Aart · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a way this is a good primer on Zen Buddhism. It certainly is an insightful account of literal and non literal application of the precepts. The writer includes personal accounts of that clarify or exemplify the workings of individual precept next to historical, factual and spiritual background. In my opinion Being Upright is very well written and because of that able to go over harder to define nuances around the precepts in a clear and even entertaining way.

Light, insightful and lovingly written, I recommend this book to anyone that is interested in the precepts, thinks about receiving them or might transmit them to others.

[Ava-Rose Beech · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this in preparation for my Jukai ceremony at the same time as a few other precept books. I really liked the straight forward practical, and clear approach to the precepts here. The only thing I did feel is some of the perspectives and interpretations of the teachings felt a bit male oriented but it is written by a man and I enjoyed reading it with/ at the same time other female written precept books!

[Alexander · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a great resource for anyone considering taking Bodhisattva precepts or wanting a better understanding of the principles that underlie Buddhist practice. Reb does a good job of providing some context and understanding of all the precepts, often providing either ancestor stories or examples from his own life to illuminate the meaning and intention of each precept. Some of his personal stories are quite stunning.

[Tom Booker · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author explores the 16 Mahayana precepts in essay form in the style of Shunryu Suzuki. The essays generally explore the precepts in their conventional, compassionate and ultimate perspectives. I found the confessional parts about his own and Richard Baker’s misdemeanours a bit jarring, but ultimately it is a clean and refined investigation of how to bring the mind of zazen into our life to live these precepts.

[Terry Butler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect Sanity

Important reading for all serious Zen students, essential for those receiving the Bodhisattva Precepts. No experience necessary as Roshi's teaching is as clear and open as words can be.

[Mike Beatty · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read many, many books on Buddhism and Zen in particular. This has to be one of the best, most inspiring, most lucid books on Zen I have ever read. I will treasure it and carry its teachings with me until the end of my days.

[Eduardo A. Camargo · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great guide for anynone who is interested in taking the precepts.

[Robert Terrill · Rating 5 out of 5]

10,000 out of 5 stars. Would learn I'm a Bodhisattva again.

[Linus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read on the Bodhisattva precepts, from a Soto Zen point of view. Recommended to any Zen practitioner with some practice under their belts!

[Thomas Zegray]

I love to read and read a lot and can always tell an author's passion level about their book. I truly believe that this book deserves a 5 star rating.

[Kapuben · Rating 5 out of 5]

good book about what the precepts mean

[Pilar V. Martinez (elle-a) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful and clear. A great book on the Zen precepts. I’ll probably come back to it!

[William Sowka · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very good explanation of the Buddhist precepts with deep insight into their truest meanings. A bit esoteric at times, but perhaps a basic introductory book on what Zen is and what is seeks to achieve should prerequisite this book. Nonetheless, an honest and helpful stepping stone.

[Jean]

Outstanding, clear presentation of the Buddhist Precepts.