Buddhism: An Introduction Teach Yourself

Buddhism: An Introduction by Clive Erricker, published by Quercus on May 28, 2010, offers a comprehensive overview of Buddhism, covering its teachings and the practical aspects of living a Buddhist life. This 304-page book presents the origins of Buddhism, its current societal role, and the challenges it faces in the modern world. The text is designed to be informative and accessible, making it suitable for readers seeking to understand this major world religion.
Readers will find a structured exploration of key topics, including the life of the Buddha, the core teachings, and various Buddhist scriptures and schools. The book also addresses meditation practices, ethical conduct, and moral issues within Buddhism, alongside insights into festivals and ceremonies. With features such as quick introductions to key principles, author insights, and exercises to reinforce learning, this edition serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in the principles and practices of Buddhism.
Official synopsis Publisher
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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
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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.
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