A request for my Buddhist readers out there:
Ryan's comments on
my earlier post from this morning brought to stark clarity my ignorance about the overall development of Buddhism. Can someone, anyone, recommend a good book or books on the history of Buddhism, including the major vehicles, schools, sects, and lineages and their core beliefs?
Thanks!
I'm realized how much I didn't know when I got in this program, and still don't know!:) seriously. It's made me realize that I think most Buddhists probably only have a vague understanding at best at the depths of the Buddhist teachings and beliefs. But that doesn't mean we don't understand the essence.
ReplyDeleteanyways, for Tibetan Buddhism I recommend Reggie Ray's "Indestructible Truth" and "Secrets of the Vajra World" - look no further for an overview of Tibetan Buddhism, it's practices, lineages, and beliefs. It's general, yet comprehensive.
"Progressive Stages of Meditation on Emptiness" by Khenpo Tsultrim Gyamtso Rinpoche is excellent showing the progression of meditation in Tibetan Buddhism (Kagyu). It indirectly covers the four philosophical schools of Tibetan Buddhism, though it's main point is meditation.
I'm piling up a list of books as I go along. I might do a post of recommended books.
Not sure about Zen or Theravadin. I have some general books, but not comprehensive.
meant "I've realized":) Not an egotistical Buddhist slip, I promise:P lol.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much Ryan, I'll be checking my local used bookstores for these titles or getting them from Powell's. I really appreciate the guidance -- makes me want to do more formal education in Buddhism.
ReplyDeletePeace,
Bill