Product Description

Drawn from the records of Chinese Zen masters of the Tang and Song dynasties, this collection may surprise some readers. In contrast to the popular image of Zen as an authoritarian, monastic tradition deeply rooted in Asian culture, these passages portray Zen as remarkably flexible, adaptive to contemporary and individual needs, and transcending cultural boundaries. The readings contained in Zen Essence emphasize that the practice of Zen requires consciousness alone and does not depend on a background in Zen Buddhism and Asian culture. The true essence of Zen resides in the relationship between mind and culture, whatever that culture might be. This unique collection of writings creates a picture of Zen not as a religion or philosophy, but as a practical science of freedom.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #651621 in Books
• Published on: 2000-05-02
• Released on: 2000-05-02
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 136 pages

Review
"The essential Zen teachings, selected from the voluminous Zen canon, known for their accessibility, their clarity and above all, their practical effectiveness in fostering insight. A truly rewarding book for all earnest seekers of the way to liberation."— East and West Series

Language Notes
Text: English (translation)
Original Language: Japanese

Inside Flap Copy
This collection portrays Zen as remarkably flexible, adaptive to contemporary and individual needs and transcending cultural boundaries.

Customer Reviews

Superb!
Recommended as a short and sweet introduction to Zen, this book did not disappoint. Cleary's introduction and translator's afterword are superb. The translations themselves are beyond excellent. I'd give this book 6 stars if I could.

Wondrous!!
I wholeheartedly agree with the other reviewers: this book is amazing. It is worth far more than it's price. All the quotes are useful (although I recommend Charles Luk's Zen and Ch'an teaching vol. 1 to get an idea of why some of the more anti-meditation words were said) and great spurs for practice. I personally bought the pocket addition. Who says Zen is just sitting on yer arse? This gives some clear, consise, Sudden Enlightenment techniques. Truly, a collection such as this is the standard by which to measure all other teachings.

Absolutely the best book on Zen
Gets immediately to the core of the matter. The translations by Cleary from the works of various Zen masters of the past are carefully chosen. The reader is led to grasp the ungraspable essence of Zen and the freedom it provides. The Translator's Introduction and Afterward (more than 30 pages) are outstanding and not available in the Pocket Book edition. No prior knowledge of Zen is required to enjoy this book completely. Everything to be said about Zen (and more) is contained in this amazing little book.