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Buddha: His Life and Teachings and Impact on Humanity -- with Audio/Video
An authority on the world’s spiritual traditions, Osho was celebrated for his unique ability to refresh ancient wisdoms for a contemporary audience. Here he takes the reader on an exciting journey into the life and world of Prince Gautam Siddhartha, who became the Buddha. Like a great storyteller, Osho explains the Buddha’s teachings through life stories and anecdotes that demonstrate how these teachings arose from Buddha’s own experiences. Lively and lifelike, with unconventional wit and deep wisdom he guides the reader step by step through the secrets and subtleties of the “world religion without God,” as only a true spiritual teacher can. Stunning color photographs throughout the book, along with Osho’s inspiring insights, reveal the inner quality of Buddha’s spirituality, leading the reader to a new understanding of his timeless message.
144 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2005
58 people are currently reading
556 people want to read
About the author
Osho
4,291 books6,727 followersRajneesh (born Chandra Mohan Jain, 11 December 1931 – 19 January 1990) and latter rebranded as Osho was leader of the Rajneesh movement. During his lifetime he was viewed as a controversial new religious movement leader and mystic.
In the 1960s he traveled throughout India as a public speaker and was a vocal critic of socialism, Mahatma Gandhi, and Hindu religious orthodoxy.
Rajneesh emphasized the importance of meditation, mindfulness, love, celebration, courage, creativity and humor—qualities that he viewed as being suppressed by adherence to static belief systems, religious tradition and socialization.
In advocating a more open attitude to human sexuality he caused controversy in India during the late 1960s and became known as "the sex guru".
In 1970, Rajneesh spent time in Mumbai initiating followers known as "neo-sannyasins". During this period he expanded his spiritual teachings and commented extensively in discourses on the writings of religious traditions, mystics, and philosophers from around the world. In 1974 Rajneesh relocated to Pune, where an ashram was established and a variety of therapies, incorporating methods first developed by the Human Potential Movement, were offered to a growing Western following. By the late 1970s, the tension between the ruling Janata Party government of Morarji Desai and the movement led to a curbing of the ashram's development and a back taxes claim estimated at $5 million.
In 1981, the Rajneesh movement's efforts refocused on activities in the United States and Rajneesh relocated to a facility known as Rajneeshpuram in Wasco County, Oregon. Almost immediately the movement ran into conflict with county residents and the state government, and a succession of legal battles concerning the ashram's construction and continued development curtailed its success.
In 1985, in the wake of a series of serious crimes by his followers, including a mass food poisoning attack with Salmonella bacteria and an aborted assassination plot to murder U.S. Attorney Charles H. Turner, Rajneesh alleged that his personal secretary Ma Anand Sheela and her close supporters had been responsible. He was later deported from the United States in accordance with an Alford plea bargain.[
After his deportation, 21 countries denied him entry. He ultimately returned to India and a revived Pune ashram, where he died in 1990. Rajneesh's ashram, now known as OSHO International Meditation Resort and all associated intellectual property, is managed by the Zurich registered Osho International Foundation (formerly Rajneesh International Foundation). Rajneesh's teachings have had a notable impact on Western New Age thought, and their popularity has increased markedly since his death.
In the 1960s he traveled throughout India as a public speaker and was a vocal critic of socialism, Mahatma Gandhi, and Hindu religious orthodoxy.
Rajneesh emphasized the importance of meditation, mindfulness, love, celebration, courage, creativity and humor—qualities that he viewed as being suppressed by adherence to static belief systems, religious tradition and socialization.
In advocating a more open attitude to human sexuality he caused controversy in India during the late 1960s and became known as "the sex guru".
In 1970, Rajneesh spent time in Mumbai initiating followers known as "neo-sannyasins". During this period he expanded his spiritual teachings and commented extensively in discourses on the writings of religious traditions, mystics, and philosophers from around the world. In 1974 Rajneesh relocated to Pune, where an ashram was established and a variety of therapies, incorporating methods first developed by the Human Potential Movement, were offered to a growing Western following. By the late 1970s, the tension between the ruling Janata Party government of Morarji Desai and the movement led to a curbing of the ashram's development and a back taxes claim estimated at $5 million.
In 1981, the Rajneesh movement's efforts refocused on activities in the United States and Rajneesh relocated to a facility known as Rajneeshpuram in Wasco County, Oregon. Almost immediately the movement ran into conflict with county residents and the state government, and a succession of legal battles concerning the ashram's construction and continued development curtailed its success.
In 1985, in the wake of a series of serious crimes by his followers, including a mass food poisoning attack with Salmonella bacteria and an aborted assassination plot to murder U.S. Attorney Charles H. Turner, Rajneesh alleged that his personal secretary Ma Anand Sheela and her close supporters had been responsible. He was later deported from the United States in accordance with an Alford plea bargain.[
After his deportation, 21 countries denied him entry. He ultimately returned to India and a revived Pune ashram, where he died in 1990. Rajneesh's ashram, now known as OSHO International Meditation Resort and all associated intellectual property, is managed by the Zurich registered Osho International Foundation (formerly Rajneesh International Foundation). Rajneesh's teachings have had a notable impact on Western New Age thought, and their popularity has increased markedly since his death.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
November 1, 2014
This book summarizes the life of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, and his core principles. To that extent, the book does a good job. I hardly found any book giving such a simple, concise overview of Buddhism like this one, especially in an intuitive modern language. That cleared out many of my misunderstanding about Buddhism as a superstitious religion.
However, the way of the author's speaking is somewhat misleading. He used a lot of metaphors on daily life and common problems in modern society with the hope to make Buddha's ideas clear and applicable to our lives. But he said it, most likely his own understanding, as if Buddha himself said it, without any further remarks. Skeptical readers may feel that the author tried to convey his ideas under the name of Buddha.
Another negative aspect about the book is the lack of self-consistent. For example, it teaches you to stay "in the middle", not be extremist. But the author advocates "ignorance" and downplay knowledgeability by saying "I have been in the academic world and I say it through my experience. I have seen intelligent farmers, but I have not seen intelligent professors. I have seen intelligent woodcutters, but I have not seen intelligent professors". Mane times he criticizes other religions (Hindu, Christianity, Lao Tzu, Confusus, even science), consider them as "immature", "childish" and inferior to his Buddhism. Such dictatorial ideas are truly dangerous!
Overall, this book can be helpful for anyone wants to have a quick view at Buddhism. For serious believers, I'd suggest better materials.
However, the way of the author's speaking is somewhat misleading. He used a lot of metaphors on daily life and common problems in modern society with the hope to make Buddha's ideas clear and applicable to our lives. But he said it, most likely his own understanding, as if Buddha himself said it, without any further remarks. Skeptical readers may feel that the author tried to convey his ideas under the name of Buddha.
Another negative aspect about the book is the lack of self-consistent. For example, it teaches you to stay "in the middle", not be extremist. But the author advocates "ignorance" and downplay knowledgeability by saying "I have been in the academic world and I say it through my experience. I have seen intelligent farmers, but I have not seen intelligent professors. I have seen intelligent woodcutters, but I have not seen intelligent professors". Mane times he criticizes other religions (Hindu, Christianity, Lao Tzu, Confusus, even science), consider them as "immature", "childish" and inferior to his Buddhism. Such dictatorial ideas are truly dangerous!
Overall, this book can be helpful for anyone wants to have a quick view at Buddhism. For serious believers, I'd suggest better materials.
February 11, 2020
osho nhà hiền triết ấn độ mang đến cái nhìn mới mẻ về đức phật và tôn giáo của ông.
Đức Phật là người đầu tiên dùng hình thức phủ định để đi truyền giáo, tất cả những tôn giáo khác đề dùng hình thức khẳng định. Họ cho rằng duy nhất chỉ có tôn giáo của họ là được khải thị từ Thượng Đế, thế nhưng ai mới là tôn giáo thật sự của Thượng Đế ?
Đức Phật cho rằng con người hạnh phúc khi chúng ta biết buông bỏ, khi buông bỏ là khi chúng ta không còn mang theo gánh nặng, ly nước đầy không bao giờ là ly nước có thể rót thêm nước. Tôn giáo đều mang tính khẳng định thông qua bộ kinh sách của họ, chỉ có Phật Giáo ( nhưng Phật Giáo đã mất đi khi Đức Phật qua đời rồi) cái chúng ta có hiện nay chỉ là kinh của 32 truyền nhân của ông. Cuối cùng Đức Phật đã từng nói “Hãy nhận biết hơn, ý thức hơn và can đảm hơn”, hãy thắp lên ánh sáng và tự soi xem chuyện gì xảy ra, và lại thổi tắt ngọn nến đó ( Niết Bàn) .
Đây là một quyển sách dễ đọc nhất của Osho. Nó mang đến một cái nhìn tổng quan và cuộc đời Đức Phật và khác biệt của Phật Giáo so với các tôn giáo khác. Rất nên đọc
Đức Phật là người đầu tiên dùng hình thức phủ định để đi truyền giáo, tất cả những tôn giáo khác đề dùng hình thức khẳng định. Họ cho rằng duy nhất chỉ có tôn giáo của họ là được khải thị từ Thượng Đế, thế nhưng ai mới là tôn giáo thật sự của Thượng Đế ?
Đức Phật cho rằng con người hạnh phúc khi chúng ta biết buông bỏ, khi buông bỏ là khi chúng ta không còn mang theo gánh nặng, ly nước đầy không bao giờ là ly nước có thể rót thêm nước. Tôn giáo đều mang tính khẳng định thông qua bộ kinh sách của họ, chỉ có Phật Giáo ( nhưng Phật Giáo đã mất đi khi Đức Phật qua đời rồi) cái chúng ta có hiện nay chỉ là kinh của 32 truyền nhân của ông. Cuối cùng Đức Phật đã từng nói “Hãy nhận biết hơn, ý thức hơn và can đảm hơn”, hãy thắp lên ánh sáng và tự soi xem chuyện gì xảy ra, và lại thổi tắt ngọn nến đó ( Niết Bàn) .
Đây là một quyển sách dễ đọc nhất của Osho. Nó mang đến một cái nhìn tổng quan và cuộc đời Đức Phật và khác biệt của Phật Giáo so với các tôn giáo khác. Rất nên đọc
September 14, 2021
A beautiful little book. Not much commentary; looking forward to the diamond sutra for that..
October 3, 2025
Content and StructureBuddha: His Life and Teachings and Impact on Humanity by Osho is a compelling exploration of Siddhartha Gautama's life and his enduring spiritual legacy. As part of the Pillars of Consciousness series, this book offers readers a blend of historical narrative and philosophical insight, enriched by multimedia elements.
Osho presents the Buddha's journey from prince to enlightened teacher through vivid storytelling and personal anecdotes. The book delves into key events of Buddha's life, illustrating how his experiences shaped his teachings. While it doesn't deeply analyze Buddhist doctrines, it captures their essence, making complex ideas accessible to a broad audience.
This edition includes a 63-minute audio talk by Osho, enhancing the reader's engagement with the material. The combination of text and audio provides a multifaceted understanding of Buddha's teachings, catering to different learning preferences.
Writing Style and AccessibilityOsho's narrative is marked by clarity and wit, making profound concepts relatable. His approach demystifies spiritual teachings, encouraging readers to reflect on their own lives. The book's language is straightforward, avoiding jargon, which broadens its appeal.
Target Audience and ImpactThis work is well-suited for individuals new to Buddhist philosophy or those seeking a fresh perspective on familiar teachings. Osho's interpretations invite readers to consider the practical applications of Buddha's insights in contemporary life.
Overall AssessmentBuddha: His Life and Teachings and Impact on Humanity serves as an accessible introduction to Buddhist thought, enriched by Osho's unique perspective. While it may not satisfy those seeking an academic analysis, it offers valuable reflections for personal growth and understanding.
Rating: ★★★★★
In summary, Osho's work provides a thoughtful and engaging exploration of Buddha's life and teachings, making it a worthwhile read for those interested in spirituality and personal development.
April 27, 2016
I like this book. I’m not sure of how accurate his information is historically. In some instances he disagrees with most other books on Buddhism I have read. However, I love his interpretations. He does not try to pretend that the folklore around the life of the Buddha is real but suggests that it be interpreted as a metaphor and in general I find his interpretation of the teachings refreshing.
December 3, 2021
“Zaman uygun olduğunda mükemmel bir kitap”
May 9, 2020
Không hiểu sao, tôi cảm thấy khó mà viết gì về cuốn sách này. Những thứ chứa đựng trong nó ko chỉ đơn thuần 1 cuốn sách nho nhỏ như vậy có thể bày tỏ; 1 đoạn văn nho nhỏ cũng khó nói rõ cuốn sách viết gì.
Dĩ nhiên, về Đức Phật, tên sách là vậy. Osho chẳng bao giờ viết 1 cuốn sách mà ko có dụng ý sâu xa ở trong nó.
Tôi nhớ khá rõ quan điểm nhà Phật là Thể, Tướng và Dụng. Osho viết về Dụng của đức Phật và lồng vào đó là Dụng của mình.
Mọi sự được viết về Phật hay Thiền cuối cùng đều nói về tính Không, về việc tiêu diệt bản ngã, nhận thức hiện tại như cái nó đang có. Điều đó cần 1 tâm trí tĩnh lặng, 1 sự hiện diện ko phán xét.
Có rất nhiều phân tích Osho đưa vào mà tôi thấy rất hay như Thuyết Phân tích tương giao hay kể cả Big bang, Thuyết tương đối. Có 1 điểm chốt rút ra, đó là các nhà huyền môn khác sử dụng sự khẳng định, sự có, sự đạt được còn đức Phật thì không, ngài dùng sự phủ định.
Mục đích của ngài là gì khi phủ định mọi thứ? Phủ định Thượng đế, phủ định Linh hồn, phủ định ánh sáng ở niết bàn? Niết bàn(nirvara) được mô tả như 1 ánh nến bị dập tắt, chỉ còn bóng tối.
Thật kì lạ vì nếu cái tối thượng là 1 thứ trống rỗng, chẳng có gì, chẳng “sung sướng” gì thì liệu ai muốn đi theo đây? Ấy vậy mà hàng triệu người tín phục ngài, chính là do sự hiện diện của đức Phật. Sự hiện diện đủ để chứng minh điều Ngài “nói” có sức thuyết phục. Đó cũng là lý do đức Phật ko cho phép ghi chép lại bất kì 1 kinh kệ nào khi Ngài còn sống. Lời nói sẽ gây hiểu nhầm, nó là ngôn ngữ chết và sẽ gây sai lạc khi người đọc/ nghe ko hiểu văn cảnh và mục đích nói.
Con người sau 2500 năm, đã khác. Tâm trí khoa học hướng ngoại và trí phân tích càng nặng, người ta cần một thứ để xâm nhập từ hệ nhị nguyên về hệ nhất nguyên, và Osho đang cố gắng thực hiện điều đó.
Osho dùng cả tính không và tính có. Tiếp cận cả hai. Góc nhìn của Osho có lẽ là 1 cái nhìn về cuộc sống ko từ bỏ sự hiện hữu trong thực tại nhưng đạt được sự cân bằng nội tâm. Không dám chắc điều đó đạt được như thế nào, cần kiểm nghiệm thêm về phương pháp của Osho mới hiểu được ông rõ hơn.
Dĩ nhiên, về Đức Phật, tên sách là vậy. Osho chẳng bao giờ viết 1 cuốn sách mà ko có dụng ý sâu xa ở trong nó.
Tôi nhớ khá rõ quan điểm nhà Phật là Thể, Tướng và Dụng. Osho viết về Dụng của đức Phật và lồng vào đó là Dụng của mình.
Mọi sự được viết về Phật hay Thiền cuối cùng đều nói về tính Không, về việc tiêu diệt bản ngã, nhận thức hiện tại như cái nó đang có. Điều đó cần 1 tâm trí tĩnh lặng, 1 sự hiện diện ko phán xét.
Có rất nhiều phân tích Osho đưa vào mà tôi thấy rất hay như Thuyết Phân tích tương giao hay kể cả Big bang, Thuyết tương đối. Có 1 điểm chốt rút ra, đó là các nhà huyền môn khác sử dụng sự khẳng định, sự có, sự đạt được còn đức Phật thì không, ngài dùng sự phủ định.
Mục đích của ngài là gì khi phủ định mọi thứ? Phủ định Thượng đế, phủ định Linh hồn, phủ định ánh sáng ở niết bàn? Niết bàn(nirvara) được mô tả như 1 ánh nến bị dập tắt, chỉ còn bóng tối.
Thật kì lạ vì nếu cái tối thượng là 1 thứ trống rỗng, chẳng có gì, chẳng “sung sướng” gì thì liệu ai muốn đi theo đây? Ấy vậy mà hàng triệu người tín phục ngài, chính là do sự hiện diện của đức Phật. Sự hiện diện đủ để chứng minh điều Ngài “nói” có sức thuyết phục. Đó cũng là lý do đức Phật ko cho phép ghi chép lại bất kì 1 kinh kệ nào khi Ngài còn sống. Lời nói sẽ gây hiểu nhầm, nó là ngôn ngữ chết và sẽ gây sai lạc khi người đọc/ nghe ko hiểu văn cảnh và mục đích nói.
Con người sau 2500 năm, đã khác. Tâm trí khoa học hướng ngoại và trí phân tích càng nặng, người ta cần một thứ để xâm nhập từ hệ nhị nguyên về hệ nhất nguyên, và Osho đang cố gắng thực hiện điều đó.
Osho dùng cả tính không và tính có. Tiếp cận cả hai. Góc nhìn của Osho có lẽ là 1 cái nhìn về cuộc sống ko từ bỏ sự hiện hữu trong thực tại nhưng đạt được sự cân bằng nội tâm. Không dám chắc điều đó đạt được như thế nào, cần kiểm nghiệm thêm về phương pháp của Osho mới hiểu được ông rõ hơn.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2021
This is a good book that forced me to think a great deal. At first I tried to read and process every idea, but then I decided to read it more quickly and to not worry so much about remembering every thought and idea. The book is divided into three parts, which mainly center around Buddha’s youth, Buddha’s life after his awakening, and his teachings. I enjoyed the last section the most because I allowed myself to read the book differently by looking at the pictures and the highlighted quotes from the various sections and I did not worry so much about trying to absorb every detail. Some ideas I want to remember are: “Remember, life is not going to follow you—you have to follow life (p. 87).” “He says you are already that which you want to become, the goal is within you; it is your own nature. You are not to achieve it. It is not in the future, it is not somewhere else. It is you right now, this very moment. But there are a few obstacles and those obstacles have to be removed (p. 108).” “Desire cannot be fulfilled because its nature is to remain unfulfilled and projected into the future (p. 126).” And, “If you think in terms of the sacred, you will find your life overflowingly full (p. 141).” Overall, this book challenged me to think in a way I haven’t for a while, and I enjoyed it.
August 23, 2025
This was my first encounter with Osho's teachings, and what an introduction it was! Listening to the audiobook narrated by Osho himself made all the difference - his voice brings a warmth and conviction that enhances the experience immeasurably.
After reading numerous books on Buddha and Buddhist philosophy, I was amazed by Osho's refreshingly unique perspective. He cuts through dense philosophical terminology to reveal the practical essence of Buddha's wisdom in a way I've never encountered before. His ability to connect ancient teachings with modern life through witty, contemporary examples is remarkable.
What sets this apart is how Osho bridges 2,500-year-old wisdom with today's challenges - relationships, career pressures, modern distractions - making Buddha's insights feel immediate and applicable. His humor prevents the material from becoming preachy while making profound concepts digestible and memorable.
This is definitely a book worth revisiting. The depth of Osho's commentary reveals new layers each time, and I'm already planning a second listen.
Highly recommended for anyone interested in Buddhist philosophy, whether you're a beginner or seeking a fresh perspective on familiar teachings. If you've struggled with traditional Buddhist texts, Osho's interpretation offers an engaging, accessible alternative that makes ancient wisdom feel relevant to modern life.
After reading numerous books on Buddha and Buddhist philosophy, I was amazed by Osho's refreshingly unique perspective. He cuts through dense philosophical terminology to reveal the practical essence of Buddha's wisdom in a way I've never encountered before. His ability to connect ancient teachings with modern life through witty, contemporary examples is remarkable.
What sets this apart is how Osho bridges 2,500-year-old wisdom with today's challenges - relationships, career pressures, modern distractions - making Buddha's insights feel immediate and applicable. His humor prevents the material from becoming preachy while making profound concepts digestible and memorable.
This is definitely a book worth revisiting. The depth of Osho's commentary reveals new layers each time, and I'm already planning a second listen.
Highly recommended for anyone interested in Buddhist philosophy, whether you're a beginner or seeking a fresh perspective on familiar teachings. If you've struggled with traditional Buddhist texts, Osho's interpretation offers an engaging, accessible alternative that makes ancient wisdom feel relevant to modern life.
March 28, 2020
This book has true words of wisdom and it has changed the way I look at spirituality and Buddhism. Osho explains the main concepts of the classical Buddhism very simply that even a non-Buddhist will understand it clearly. Even for a serious religious person, this book will make you slowdown and rethink everything you have learned in your life. This is not a book about Buddhism as a religion but about Siddhartha and his journey towards the enlightenment.
My favourite quote
“Buddha says: Look into the nature of desire. Watch the movement of desire; it is very subtle. And you will be able to see two things: one, that desire by its very nature is unfulfillable. And second, the moment you understand that desire is unfulfillable, desire disappears and you are left desireless. That is the state of peace, silence, tranquility. That is the state of fulfillment! People never come to fulfillment through desire; they come to fulfillment only by transcending desire.”
My favourite quote
“Buddha says: Look into the nature of desire. Watch the movement of desire; it is very subtle. And you will be able to see two things: one, that desire by its very nature is unfulfillable. And second, the moment you understand that desire is unfulfillable, desire disappears and you are left desireless. That is the state of peace, silence, tranquility. That is the state of fulfillment! People never come to fulfillment through desire; they come to fulfillment only by transcending desire.”
December 15, 2023
Gotta clarify first: I have limited knowledge about Buddism. Religion hasn’t always been in my field of interest. However, this book particularly opened many doors in my thoughts, which changed a lot of prejudices I had on the topic of Buddism. The ideology of Buddism is so simple, yet absolutely delicate, which all revolves around working with yourself, from the inner part of your mind to how you act and behave.
I have no clue whether these ideologies are applicable to modern days, like the time we’re living in right now. It just that the stories and philosophies being told in this book are profoundly convincing to me. I did felt like those are supposed to be the way of living that one human being should be pursuing. There are many interesting concepts which are mentioned in this book and I'm listing them out:
- Every sleep is a sin (this is so confusing and contradictory to everything I have known about sleep). Osho said that one person does not need sleep that much and the less you sleep, the greater a spiritual person you are.
- The moment of enlightment is called nirvana. There is no god, but there is definitely godliness
- Part of virtue: It is a state of becoming so alert that seven small acts, even small gestures, movement, all become full of awareness. Therefore, risking everything to be alert will eventually lead one individual to enlightment.
- Silence is the ultimate language. Of all the languages and verbal forms of communication, Osho indicated that being silent is the ultimate way to commute with each other.
- The man of awareness lives in this world like a bee. He never mars the beauty of this world, he never destroys the perfume of this world. He lives silently, moves silently. He asks only as much as is needed. His life is simple, it is not complex. He does not gather for tomorrow. The bee never gathers for tomorrow; today is enough unto itself
- Buddhism is a religiousless religion, because it is not an organized religion. It is a tremendous unbelief - yet it is a religion.
… and there are so much more to talk about after reading this book. Osho also tells the story of Siddhartha Gautama, who was one of the enlighted individuals. Remember, there is no God, since God and Budda are claimed to be Gods by humanity (but merely based on the magicalness of their being). According to Osho, they were just individuals who reached the epitome of one human’s mind and spirit by living the correct way. Everybody can be Gods if they find themselves in the very inner part of their mind and soul. Being present is the key.
Overall this was a fun reading book and it actually got me thinking about a lot of things. I would say this one is 4.5/5.
I have no clue whether these ideologies are applicable to modern days, like the time we’re living in right now. It just that the stories and philosophies being told in this book are profoundly convincing to me. I did felt like those are supposed to be the way of living that one human being should be pursuing. There are many interesting concepts which are mentioned in this book and I'm listing them out:
- Every sleep is a sin (this is so confusing and contradictory to everything I have known about sleep). Osho said that one person does not need sleep that much and the less you sleep, the greater a spiritual person you are.
- The moment of enlightment is called nirvana. There is no god, but there is definitely godliness
- Part of virtue: It is a state of becoming so alert that seven small acts, even small gestures, movement, all become full of awareness. Therefore, risking everything to be alert will eventually lead one individual to enlightment.
- Silence is the ultimate language. Of all the languages and verbal forms of communication, Osho indicated that being silent is the ultimate way to commute with each other.
- The man of awareness lives in this world like a bee. He never mars the beauty of this world, he never destroys the perfume of this world. He lives silently, moves silently. He asks only as much as is needed. His life is simple, it is not complex. He does not gather for tomorrow. The bee never gathers for tomorrow; today is enough unto itself
- Buddhism is a religiousless religion, because it is not an organized religion. It is a tremendous unbelief - yet it is a religion.
… and there are so much more to talk about after reading this book. Osho also tells the story of Siddhartha Gautama, who was one of the enlighted individuals. Remember, there is no God, since God and Budda are claimed to be Gods by humanity (but merely based on the magicalness of their being). According to Osho, they were just individuals who reached the epitome of one human’s mind and spirit by living the correct way. Everybody can be Gods if they find themselves in the very inner part of their mind and soul. Being present is the key.
Overall this was a fun reading book and it actually got me thinking about a lot of things. I would say this one is 4.5/5.
November 27, 2021
I read the Vietnamese version of this book, and I have no idea what's the difference between the two versions.
Anyway, this book helped me, a young Buddhist, rethought everything I was taught about Buddhism at pagodas. I kind of went atheist afterwards. Not atheist as in "atheist", but as in "deciding what kind of Buddhism I want to follow instead of going to pagodas for speeches".
Yeah I am not saying what I did was cool or anything, just want to share how much of an impact this book was for me.
So yep, 100% recommended. For better understanding and new views.
Anyway, this book helped me, a young Buddhist, rethought everything I was taught about Buddhism at pagodas. I kind of went atheist afterwards. Not atheist as in "atheist", but as in "deciding what kind of Buddhism I want to follow instead of going to pagodas for speeches".
Yeah I am not saying what I did was cool or anything, just want to share how much of an impact this book was for me.
So yep, 100% recommended. For better understanding and new views.
January 6, 2024
More like 4.5 stars.
The book is a review of the life of Buddha and his way. It has lots of anecdotes from the life of Buddha, opinions of Osho on Buddha, and his commentaries. It does not go deep into the Buddhist philosophies but covers their essence on a very broad level. It can be a good starting point for somebody interested in knowing about Buddha.
The book is a review of the life of Buddha and his way. It has lots of anecdotes from the life of Buddha, opinions of Osho on Buddha, and his commentaries. It does not go deep into the Buddhist philosophies but covers their essence on a very broad level. It can be a good starting point for somebody interested in knowing about Buddha.
December 23, 2018
Fantástico
December 30, 2018
Exhilarating to read Osho's Commentary on Buddha's life and his teaching.
March 4, 2019
It was great
I liked it!! Very well written! It’s one of the best reads ever! Highly recommended.
Buy this book today for sure!
I liked it!! Very well written! It’s one of the best reads ever! Highly recommended.
Buy this book today for sure!
July 1, 2019
Would love to read more by Osho on Buddhism, a great informational/inspirational text.
July 21, 2020
A simple and good start to understand buddhism
June 11, 2021
Osho shows me how pure buddhism was and how wrong it is too day, too much ritual.
Buddha was just a human he wasn't not god, but he had seen the raw truth of the world.
Buddha was just a human he wasn't not god, but he had seen the raw truth of the world.
January 2, 2023
A Really Nice Book that teaches us about how important Meditation is , in one's Life. It also describes the Tenets of Buddhism.
May 11, 2023
"Ne zaman bir Buddha doğsa, annenin hemen öldüğü söylenir."
June 16, 2024
✨4✨
Recuerda siempre que las palabras tienen poder y ese poder puede volverse en contra tuya.
Todo surge y desaparece. Pero quien despierta, lo hace para siempre.
Recuerda siempre que las palabras tienen poder y ese poder puede volverse en contra tuya.
Todo surge y desaparece. Pero quien despierta, lo hace para siempre.
April 29, 2018
Provocative - it takes a lot of courage to speak against & for someone/something that holds history & that is followed by a lot of people. Osho takes strong stands & opens new dimensions. It will turn out to be a boring read for an average mind but for an ascetic mind, it's gold.
August 27, 2016
There is no denying that Osho had the gift of gab and did not shy from making preposterous controversial assertions. In this book he lays his understanding of classical Buddhism in an extremely simple and direct manner. As usual, a lot of what he says will shock you, make you angry, and even confuse you but most importantly it will force you to think and question are your existing beliefs - the aim Osho had always strived towards. Hence, I don't know if I believe everything written here....but I can't deny that this book has changed the way I look at spirituality and the very idea of God.
April 19, 2009
This is a very powerful book. It challenged my beliefs about Buddhism, and challenged me to see the positive aspects that Buddhism can bring. Gautama was simply a man, but he found his path to become one of the most worldwide known Buddhists, and his teachings still carry on today. Osho is definitely a writer worth reading, and I plan to read this book again someday.
August 25, 2014
A very simple and well thought out overview of Gautama Buddha’s life and philosophies. It is not a book about Buddhism as a religion but about Siddhartha and his journey to enlightenment. I found it presented Buddha’s major teachings in a clear and concise manner.
September 16, 2014
No matter how much you go on explaining Buddha's teaching and Life essence, unless you are yourself you are missing a tremendous thing. It may be small or big, existence helps us in every way to look into yourself. Just be conscious !
January 27, 2009
a nice introduction to the history of Buddhism and its philosophy. it makes me think. it makes me slow down and think.
March 24, 2013
A wonderful concise work on Buddha's life and teachings. Osho is matchless in his interpretation and assertions and comparisons. A great read and soothing to the mind.
October 26, 2013
One of the first books I read on Buddhism, very informative and a great place to start
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