Religion / Buddhism Books

As part of Zen training, pupils have long been asked koans or paradoxical questions by their teachers. These seemingly nonsensical questions teach students how to reject empiricism and reason and instead develop a powerful intuitive sense. John Tarrant believes that through ancient koans readers can find greater happiness in their lives. In BRING ME THE RHINOCEROS, Tarrant urges the reader to abandon western logic, which might lead a person to believe that, if they are unhappy, something needs improving or repairing. He contends that there is never anything to repair, that we already possess, intact, all that we need to be happy. Chapter one's subtitle, "Forgetting Who You Are and Making Use of Nothing," best summarizes this book's basic premise. This chapter promotes selflessness and internal silence in everyday life. The 14 koans presented in this book are more than just quick insights into the self, they are mental journeys, intended to stimulate true enlightenment. Boldly counter to Western psychotherapeutic teachings, BRING ME THE RHINOCEROS is a perfect introduction to Zen teachings.

This no-nonsense introduction to Tibetan Buddhist meditation begins by asking and answering some pointed questions: "What is meditation?" and "What is mind?" Author Kathleen McDonald asks us to reconsider modern notions of happiness and success in order to disengage from repetitive and counterproductive thought cycles. McDonald demonstrates basic meditations, showing how to correct common trouble spots, then moves into advanced meditations where she asks students to think about more profound states of being, such as impermanence, suffering, and death. While McDonald suggests ways of dealing with negative thoughts and energy, positive thinking is the overriding school of thought here. There is an entire section on visualization, and another dedicated to ancient Tibetan prayers.

Standing up to urges and cravings will come easily after sitting down to read Pema Chodron's guide to breaking negative daily patterns and living a new life. This prolific author, Buddhist nun, and experienced teacher at Gampo Abbey in Nova Scotia offers practical ways to apply Tibetan Buddhism to everyday circumstances in the Western world. It is a highly accessible and useful tool for readers coping with addictive behavior or grasping at a need to become grounded.