Looking for the best books on Buddhism? We asked experts to compile reading lists and discuss their recommendations in an interview. For beginners, we recommend Elizabeth Harris’s discussion of introductory books about Buddhism. Donald S Lopez Jr, a Buddhism scholar, also provides an invaluable overview of the foundations of Buddhist beliefs.
If, on the other hand, you’re secular but looking to bring some aspects of Buddhism into your life, Robert Wright’s Why Buddhism is True is an excellent starting point. We also have an excellent interview with Andy Puddicombe, co-founder of the popular Headspace app, which teaches simple, 10-minute meditation techniques. A former Buddhism monk, he talks us through some of the books that inspired him on his journey.
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1
Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind: Informal Talks on Zen Meditation and Practice
by Shunryu Suzuki -
2
The Life of Milarepa
Translated by Lobsang P Lhalungpa -
3
Cutting Through Spiritual Materialism
by Chogyam Trungpa -
4
The Bodhicaryāvatāra
by Śāntideva -
5
One Robe, One Bowl: The Zen Poetry of Ryōkan
by Ryōkan
A Meditation Expert’s Favorite Books, recommended by Andy Puddicombe
A Meditation Expert’s Favorite Books, recommended by Andy Puddicombe
From Japanese poetry to Tibetan philosophy, meditation and mindfulness expert Andy Puddicombe talks to us about his favorite books, why he co-founded the hit app Headspace, and how we could all benefit by bringing more mindfulness and purpose into our lives.
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1
The Religious Question in Modern China
by Vincent Goossaert and David Palmer -
2
Qigong Fever
by David Palmer -
3
The Missionary's Curse and Other Tales from a Chinese Catholic Village
by Henrietta Harrison -
4
Zen Baggage: A Pilgrimage to China
by Bill Porter -
5
Democracy’s Dharma: Religious Renaissance and Political Development in Taiwan
by Richard Madsen
The best books on Religion in China, recommended by Ian Johnson
The best books on Religion in China, recommended by Ian Johnson
China is a religious country with all kinds of faiths being practised across its vast territories—despite Mao’s attempts to eradicate them. The Chinese Communist Party tolerates a variety of religions but continues to grapple with the potential challenge they pose to its authority. Prize-winning journalist Ian Johnson introduces the best books on the complex topic of religion in China.
