A Westerner himself, Kulananda presents some of the key ideas and methods by which he and his contemporaries now live. In simple, clear language he addresses and explores many fundamental Buddhist concepts, including the relationships between consciousness and reality, ourselves and the world. He also radically reassesses the ways in which the encounter between Buddhism and Western culture affects lives on a religious, cultural, social and economic level. Western Buddhists stand today at a highly creative juncture. This book offers an essential insight into how Buddhism is being redefined. Newcomers will find it a useful and accessible introduction to ideas and practices that have for too long been veiled in mystification, and experienced Buddhists will find a refreshing new perspective on familiar ground. Kulananda is a second generation Western Buddhist teacher. Ordained in 1977, he is a leading member of the Western Buddhist Order. He is devoted to creating contexts in which Westerners can practise Buddhsim. Kulananda explains many of the important Buddhist traditional teachings in simple terms. He clarifies how these teachings can be integrated into Western culture and provides an introduction for anyone who has been puzzled by the veils of mystification that surround Buddhism.
目次
1. Buddhism: A Brieft Outline 2. The Nature of Existence 3. Karma, Consciousness and Creativity 4. Going for Refuge: Commitment 5. Buddhist Ethics 6. Meditation and Ritual 7. Teachers, Students and Spiritual Friends 8. Buddhist Lifestyles 9. The Social Dimension 10. Buddhism and Western Culture
