A Simple Path: Basic Buddhist Teachings by His Holiness the Dalai Lama (Hardcover)

A Simple Path, based on talks he gave in London in 1996, exemplifies this approach by discussing the essence of Buddhism, the Four Noble Truths: the nature of suffering; the origin of suffering and the law of karma; cessation of suffering through liberation; and the path to achieving this.

The Dalai Lama also covers other central Buddhist teachings, such as the interdependence of reality, the principle of non-violence, the Three Jewels--the Buddha himself, the Dharma or teaching, and the Sangha, or community of practitioners--and much more including, crucially, compassion. The essence of Buddhism may indeed be a simple path, but the philosophy is endlessly complex; this book is not an introductory text for the complete beginner!

The text of the book has appeared previously, both as The Four Noble Truths and as part of The Heart of the Buddha's Path, so it's worth checking your shelves before buying it. The "added value" of this edition comes from the 80+ stunning colour photographs by Ian Cumming, which are intended to complement, rather than merely illustrate the text. These images of Tibetan monks, monasteries and mountains are truly inspiring; they make the world of Tibetan Buddhism, and the home from which the Dalai Lama has been exiled, come to life in a remarkable way for Western readers. --David V. Barrett

Review
Based upon teachings by His Holiness The Dalai Lama when he visited London in 1996,A Simple Pathcovers the fundamental principles of Buddhism with focus on The Four Noble Truths that form the basis of Buddha's teachings. The book explains the notion and practice of this core element of Buddhism and has colour photographs by the photographer Ian Cummings which back up and enhance the text. The book is broken up into four sections each of which explain one of the Four Noble Truths of Suffering, the Origin of Suffering, Cessation and the Truth of the Path. There is also a comprehensive glossary at the end of the book. Whilst informing the reader with this understanding of The Four Noble Truths, the book also gives practical instruction about putting the teachings into practice and enhancing daily life. The book inspires as it makes its fluid journey through these teachings. At the core of the book and its topic lies an uplifting message and instruction to allow people to find peace, compassion and a deeper satisfaction in every day living. The photographs inspire further and touch the reader with their humility. (Kirkus UK)

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