Table of Contents
Which book should I read to learn about Buddhism?
The Bodhicaryavatara by Santideva. This is one that is best read when you already have some base knowledge of Buddhism to begin with. With the Bodhicaryavatara, you are taken on the spiritual journey of becoming a Bodhisattva along the Mahayana path and is a book that is continually used by teachers today.
How do I start becoming Buddhist?
Yes, anyone can become a Buddhist. You will need to take refuge in the Triple Gem and follow a ceremony during which you take a vow to uphold the Five Precepts (to not kill, not steal, not commit sexual misconduct, refrain from false speech and not take intoxicants that lessen your awareness).
What is the Buddhist holy book called?
Tipitaka
Pali canon, also called Tipitaka (Pali: “Triple Basket”) or Tripitaka (Sanskrit), the complete canon, first recorded in Pali, of the Theravada (“Way of the Elders”) branch of Buddhism.
Does Buddhism have a God?
Buddhists do not believe in any kind of deity or god, although there are supernatural figures who can help or hinder people on the path towards enlightenment. Siddhartha Gautama was an Indian prince in the fifth century B.C.E. who, upon seeing people poor and dying, realized that human life is suffering.
Do you have to convert to Buddhism?
Buddhism does not require conversion. You can be both religious, following your childhood faith and also seek enlightenment.
Can Buddhist marry?
There is no obligation for Buddhists to marry and most Buddhists believe marriage is a choice. As long as they are both happy to do so, Buddhists are allowed to cohabit . Marriage in Buddhism comprises of a civil ceremony that legally unites two people.
Can Buddhist celebrate Christmas?
However, surprisingly, many Buddhists still celebrate Christmas. This differs from Christian belief as Buddhists recognize the Jesus as a man and teacher, but not the Messiah. Pin It. Buddhists also have their own holiday on December 8th, which celebrates the day Buddha achieved enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree.
What are the best Buddhist books to read for beginners?
Gautama Buddha by Vishvapani Blomfield 2. My Spiritual Journey by the Dalai Lama 3. The Heart of the Buddha’s Teaching by Thich Nhat Hahn 4. Open Heart, Clear Mind by Thubten Chodron 5. The Miracle of Mindfulness by Thich Nhat Hahn 6. When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chödrön 7. Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind by Shunryu Suzuki 8.
Where do I start with Buddhist teachings?
There are countless Buddhist teachings, books, classical texts, commentaries, memoirs, and investigations. Where do you start? If you have a teacher or a community, the obvious place to start is with the teachings they recommend.
The authors of the essays include Bhikku Bodhi, Ajahn Chah, Pema Chodron, the 14th Dalai Lama, Thich Nhat Hanh, Shunryu Suzuki, and Chogyam Trungpa. The book begins with a brief biography of the historical Buddha and an explanation of how Buddhism grew and developed.
Do Buddhist practitioners need to read?
Some practitioners love to read Buddhist texts and neglect practice in favor of reading. Others refuse to read, instead opting to sit in silent contemplation indefinitely. Study and practice are both important. For a simple rule of thumb, Geshe Tenzin Wangyal recommends: