Book Description

Is this the right book for me? Covering all aspects of this fascinating faith, from the teachings of the Buddha to the practicalities of pursuing a Buddhist way of life, Buddhism - an Introduction is an informative and accessible introduction to this major world religion. Learn about the origins of Buddhism, its place in society today and the challenges it faces for the future. Buddhism: An Introduction includes: Chapter 1: Buddhists and Buddhism Who are Buddhists? The Three Jewels The Three Refuges Buddhist Practice In conclusion Chapter 2: The life of the Buddha The Buddha's significance The Four Sights Going forth Self-mortification The enlightenment Turning the wheel of the dharma The mission The growth of the Sangha Paranirvana In conclusion Chapter 3: The Buddha's teaching The first Nobel Truth: all is suffering (dukkha) The second Noble Truth: the origins of suffering (samudaya) The third Noble Truth: the cessation of suffering (nirodha) The fourth Noble Truth: the path to the cessation of suffering (magga) Chapter 4: Buddhist scriptures and schools The Theravada Scriptures The Mahayana Scriptures Pure Land Buddhism The Ch'an and Zen Schools The Tibetan Scriptures In conclusion Chapter 5: Meditation and devotion 1 Mind and heart 2 Heart and mind 3 Devotion as homage 4 Salvific devotion In conclusion . . . . Chapter 6: Ethical conduct Sila skilfulness The practicality of buddhist ethics Working on yourself and others The precepts and the dharma Renunciation In conclusion Chapter 7: Moral Issues The natural world Human society In conclusion Chapter 8: The social order Ordination Celibacy Weddings and marriages Family life Death and dying In conclusion Chapter 9: Festivals and ceremonies Theravada festivals Tibetan festivals Japanese and Chinese festivals Western Buddhist festivals In conclusion Chapter 10: Budhist today: East and West The spread of Buddhism Buddhism in India The revival of Buddhism Buddhism in South-East Asia Missionary activity Tibetan Buddhism Buddhism in the West In conclusion Chapter 11: Transition, adaptation and influence: prospects for Buddhism in the twenty-first century Into the twenty-first century Views from the West Transmitting Buddhism to a new generation In conclusion Learn effortlessly with a new easy-to-read page design and added features:Not got much time? One, five and ten-minute introductions to key principles to get you started. Author insights Lots of instant help with common problems and quick tips for success, based on the author's many years of experience. Test yourself Tests in the book and online to keep track of your progress. Extend your knowledge Extra online articles to give you a richer understanding of psychology. Five things to remember Quick refreshers to help you remember the key facts. Try this Innovative exercises illustrate what you've learnt and how to use it.