275 pages
English language
Published Dec. 14, 2007 by Nilgiri Press.
This is an outstanding translation of the Dhammapada. I read this in preparation for a classroom discussion about Buddhism. Easwaran’s introduction is invaluable.
This concise collection of the Buddha's teachings makes an excellent, pragmatic handbook for being a human. The central theme of renouncing attachment to attain joy is expounded in various ways, along with the side effect of developing a more resilient and compassionate person, using vivid imagery and memorable metaphors. On nearly every page, I found personal resonance, and in sum, a basis for morality free from appeasement of gods and instead founded on what could be viewed as humanist grounds.
Just a couple samples, against hatred and anger:
"For hatred can never put an end to hatred; love alone can." (5)
"Those who hold back rising anger like a rolling chariot are real charioteers. Others merely hold the reins. Conquer anger through gentleness, unkindness through kindness, greed through generosity, and falsehood by truth." (222-223)
I think the Buddha was on to something.
The chapter introductions are invaluable in setting the …
This concise collection of the Buddha's teachings makes an excellent, pragmatic handbook for being a human. The central theme of renouncing attachment to attain joy is expounded in various ways, along with the side effect of developing a more resilient and compassionate person, using vivid imagery and memorable metaphors. On nearly every page, I found personal resonance, and in sum, a basis for morality free from appeasement of gods and instead founded on what could be viewed as humanist grounds.
Just a couple samples, against hatred and anger:
"For hatred can never put an end to hatred; love alone can." (5)
"Those who hold back rising anger like a rolling chariot are real charioteers. Others merely hold the reins. Conquer anger through gentleness, unkindness through kindness, greed through generosity, and falsehood by truth." (222-223)
I think the Buddha was on to something.
The chapter introductions are invaluable in setting the stage for the verse, and often offer some interesting correlations, but the overall introduction, including a brief recounting of the Buddha's story and philosophy, is almost worth the price of admission on its own.
One more:
"All created things are transitory; those who realize this are freed from suffering. This is the path that leads to wisdom." (277)
Seems simple, almost obvious. But isn't that often the mark of truth?
