The Book Of Zen: The Path To Inner Peace

by Eric Chaline

Zen seems to revel in mystification, but does the hype live up to close scrutiny? This introduction to Zen explains the principles, practices and history of Zen and points the way to heightened consciousness and spiritual fulfilment. It traces the history of Zen through India, China, Korea and finally its home in Japan through the charismatic, historical characters that developed its traditions. Seeking to explore the Zen principles of emptiness, illusion and Buddha nature, the book takes readers through how they can experience a transcendental state of enlightenment by following the practices of zazen and shikantaza. It instructs readers in incorporating Zen into their lives, through painting, poetry, ikebana and the ritual of the tea ceremony, and takes the reader on a path to innner peace.

Genres: Buddhism, Zen, Religion, Nonfiction, Philosophy, History

128 pages, Hardcover

Published January 1, 2003

About the author

Author, journalist and editor, winner of the Lord Aberdare Prize, 2018

Reviews

[Bryan Jenks · Rating 4 out of 5]

I greatly enjoyed both the quality of the books pages, the lovely artwork within it, as well as a greater detail of the history and spread of Buddhism across the world.

I also really enjoyed the “is that so?” Koan. Equanimity in its purest form.

[Lovro Herbai · Rating 4 out of 5]

When it is time to dress, get dressed. When you must walk, walk. Do not concern yourself with becoming a Buddha, just be yourself. Though the fool may laugh at you, the wise man will understand.

[Jan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Handzaam, mooi geïllustreerd overzicht van de geschiedenis en hedendaagse vormen / uitingen van Zenboeddhisme.

[Samdaepicham · Rating 3 out of 5]

It’s not a bad book or anything I just didn’t know it would be a history on Buddhism and zen. I actually did enjoy learning about it.

[Greg · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first half explains the history of Buddhism and how it travelled from India to China and Japan and Korea. It sketches the various trends over the last 2500 years. The second half is more concrete and lists various methods for gaining enlightenment. I am a bit of a skeptic but I think there is a place for emptying the mind and gazing at the universe with minimal bias. I could never be a monk, but there are some insights into human consciousness that may be of help. Now, to understand the sound of one hand clapping...

[Harrison Large ラージ • ハリソン · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting, thorough book on the history of Zen Buddhism, from its history in India, China and Japan to its practices, doctrines and famous enlightened figures. Answered most questions I had on the subject and left me with a few things to evaluate about my own life.

[Hans Marijnissen]

Excellent introduction.

[Dustin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful picture book about the history, and practice of, Zen Buddhism.

[Lightwhisper · Rating 4 out of 5]

Um livro muito completo e prático sobre o Zen e todo o seu espiritualismo.

[Gianni Barros · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interessante introdução aos conceitos e história do budismo Zen.