What makes you not a Buddhist

by Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse

No cover — Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse: What makes you not a Buddhist (2006, Shambhala)

Hardcover, 128 pages

English language

Published Dec. 5, 2006 by Shambhala.

ISBN:: 978-1-59030-406-8

(8 reviews)

So you think you're a Buddhist? Think again. Tibetan Buddhist master Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse, one of the most creative and innovative lamas teaching today, throws down the gauntlet to the Buddhist world, challenging common misconceptions, stereotypes, and fantasies. With wit and irony, Khyentse urges readers to move beyond the superficial trappings of Buddhism—beyond the romance with beads, incense, or exotic robes—straight to the heart of what the Buddha taught.

11 editions

tridral@ramblingreaders.org reviewed What makes you not a Buddhist by Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse

Review of 'What makes you not a Buddhist' on 'Goodreads'

4 stars

This book is a good introduction to various aspects of Buddhism.

Buddhism is a religion of method rather than of truth. Practices are there to be engaged with, rather than simply believed.

Different teachers may have different ways of presenting what makes you (not) a Buddhist. This is not a problem if the reader sees these presentations as methods. It can also be helpful for the reader to eventually engage with a personal teacher who can direct their practice.