Books for/about - lama

The Art of Happiness: A Handbook for Living

Publisher: Riverhead Hardcover
Authors: Dalai Lama Howard C. Cutler

ISBN: 1573221112
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Summary: Dalai Lama better off without co-author.
This book has an appealing title and author. It does not deliver content. The co-author Howard Cutler stumbles through endless interpretation of the Lama's ideas. It seems as if Cutler is trying to filter eastern philosophy through a western filter while oversimplifying for the reader. It is unclear if Cutler is "dumbing down" his analysis for the simple-minded reader or possibly just is not good at writing. The book would be far better without his aggravating interjections.
"Ethics for a New Millenium" is a much better choice if your looking for a book by the Dalai Lama.

Summary: Vain Cutler, Insightful Lama.
I agree with most of the previous reviews that Mr.Cutler lost this battle of wits with the Dalai Lama. The latter shows us in vivid detail how to cope and beat the blues, anger, envy, etc. Mr.Cutlers attempts to outwit DL with psychological questioning was transparent and ineffective. DL's logical responses go far beyond the limits of the self. Part1-The Purpose Of Life, P2-Human Warmth And Compassion, P3-Transforming Suffering, P4-Overcoming Obstacles, and P5-Closing Reflections On Living A Spiritual Life. Will give any reader plenty to reflect on. For me P3 was the linchpin of the book. Page 140 was the most crucial. Attitude truly does play a huge role in our lives, even if we are slow to realize it.

Summary: Dali Lama
I have admired the teachings and writings of His Holiness The Dali Lama. He speaks to all in a way that is both profound, yet down to Earth. Living in the United States all of my forty years I have noticed that we can be someone who can lean toward personal interests. I am not suggesting, in anyway, that we don't have neighbors who are very compassionate toward strangers. If we follow the guidance of His Holiness, we can learn and teach others to live a kinder life. I have several books containing his words of wisdom. Through his words I have gained strength during uncertain times. My honor to him is to share my kindness to all those who may cross my path.

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The Universe in a Single Atom: The Convergence of Science and Spirituality

Publisher: Morgan Road Books
Authors: Dalai Lama

ISBN: 076792066X
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Summary: The Wisdom of the Spirit is the Most Powerful
The Dalai Lama's wisdom in one book on the whole nature of science, ethics, are as potent as they are profound. A significant questioning from a compassionate heart on the role of higher spirit in the application of science. In a world dominated by out-of-control ego ... this book is a demonstration of why complete freedom from illusion is the only guarantee of inner peace. One of those books to read over and over again. We owe it to ourselves to conquer Mara (illusion). The world and its treasure of riches and power in the misguided context are not real. The Dalai Lama so beautifully explains why.

Summary: The Scientific Middle Way
Here the esteemed Dalai Lama discusses the possible connections between Tibetan Buddhism and modern science. By the way, this has been done before, especially in "The Tao of Physics" by Fritjof Capra, but the reader will be most fulfilled by getting it from the source, because obviously nobody can speak more knowledgably about Buddhism (and probably Eastern spirituality in general) than His Holiness. We learn here Eastern spiritual traditions have a great affinity for and comfort with science, as major advances in astrophysics, quantum mechanics, and even genetics can be absorbed into these belief systems without too much profound shock. Tibetan Buddhism, as explained by the Dalai Lama, is also refreshingly open-minded in that it has a tradition of basing beliefs on empirical evidence rather than dogmatic faith, making the religion very adaptable to new scientific theories and findings. Here the Dalai Lama introduces the ancient scriptural foundations (both Tibetan and Indian) of Buddhism, with a great amount of in-depth historical and religious knowledge being offered to the interested reader. He also discusses many modern advances in science, especially those - such as relativity and cloning - that have lead to real human educational or ethical quandaries.

One really great thing about the Dalai Lama's writing is his great humility, as (unlike most writers from the Western scientific tradition) he admits freely when he doesn't quite understand something, and he even injects humor in a few places, such as when he jokes about having no karmic connection with mathematics. This book boils down to a series of thought experiments in which His Holiness explores how spirituality and science can work together for the greater good of humanity, and to solve ethical dilemmas (coming from both sides) before they get out of hand. Especially valuable for the interested layperson are insights into the workings of Eastern spirituality and its real philosophical connection with science. Note that since this book is basically a series of thought exercises and explorations of abstract concepts without too much hard evidence or illustrative examples, the "convergence" of the subtitle doesn't quite come to fruition, resulting in a book that can be an enlightening read but doesn't offer too many true breakthroughs. But regardless, the Dalai Lama's wisdom, empathy, and understanding make all of his books eminently readable. [~doomsdayer520~]

Summary: Excelent reading
Very well written, easy to understand and a well ballanced opinion and explanation on the subject. I would recomend this book to anyone with interest in the subject.

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	How to Practice : The Way to a Meaningful Life Publisher: Atria Authors: The Dalai Lama Jeffrey Hopkins
ISBN: 0743427084 List Price: $20.00 Amazon Price: $13.00 Usually ships in 24 hours Buy this book from amazon.com or from amazon.co.uk	Avg Cusomer Rating: 4 Reviews: Summary: living with peace of mind The Dalai Lama teaches how to make every action part of your spiritual practice and, in doing so, create a meaningful life filled with happiness. He recommends disconnecting the attachment of your happiness from the material circumstances of your life and opening instead to the true source of your happiness which is your inner peace of mind. There is a section on Buddhist Tantra and a discussion of how sexuality can be used in the search for peace and kindness. Dalai Lama means "ocean of wisdom." The fourteenth Dalai Lama (Tenzin Gyatso) won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989 as the exiled spiritual leader of Tibet. At the age of two, in accordance with Tibetan tradition, he was recognized as the reincarnation of his predecessor, the thirteenth Dalai Lama. In 1950 (the year of the Chinese invasion of Tibet), at age 16, he was called upon to assume full political power and leadership. Since 1960 he has resided in Dharamsala, India, aptly known as "Little Lhasa," the seat of the Tibetan government in exile. Summary: Very good book....a little history, some practical exercises, but at times a little complex for me I'm not sure if my title suggests that I like it or have reservations.....well, I thought it was a great read. It has a good bit of history about not only Tibet, the Dalai Lama, but also a fair bit about Buddhism. This is ALL of course critical to understanding from where these ideals came from. The Dalai Lama is very open, tolerant and in fact positive about people of other religions. In fact, he does in fact seem to be true to his introduction in that the book isn't so much trying to convert you to Buddhism as to convince you why these Buddhist values and practices are valuable to people of all religion. (and the Nihilist as well) He of course presents his arguments from the Buddhist perspective as you would fully expect. OK, but after all the above glowing about the book, I have to admit that there were several chapters in the final third of the book that I mildly confusing. I think I was confused because many of the unfamilar terms and definitions he creates were getting lost and confused in my head. I am a Christian, and while most of the low-level values (good and evil) are quite familiar to me.....some of the writings on meditation were quite new to me, yet very educational and interesting. But some of the other concepts....oh, like the definitions of the various types of suffering (suffering of change, pervasive suffering) were difficult for me to remember and ultimately made it difficult to follow some of the writings in those chapters. I have to admit that this is probably totally my own fault as I had decided to sit down and read the book in a single sitting, and did so without stopping. (and no, I didn't have a gun to my own head, even with the above confusion, I did enjoy it totally...a second reading will probably clear it all up for me) The end of the book seemed to pull it all together for me, and as I read it it allowed me to mull over all the concepts presented in the prior chapters. I highly recommend you read this book, particularly if you are yourself looking for meaning and more value for your life. Summary: Very dissapointing Let me start by saying that I am not religous at all, although I respect and am very interested in all religions. I am drawn to eastern religions for their unique way of looking at life. But his book is not a book for either a beginner or advanced student of eastern religion or even spirituality, unless they are just curious to read something by the Dalai Lama. I have not read anything else written by him, but I was surprised at his lack of style in writing and his ceasless repetition of his ideas. The book is not an uninteresting read, so for anyone really interested in the Buddhist perspective on the issues of "A meaningful life", definitely read it, though you may find yourself a bit dissapointed at the end, as I did, at the lack of direction you feel at the end of the book. The Dalai Lama defends Buddhism as being a depressing religion, which I don't think it is, but does so very poorly. I suggest reading other authors if you want to learn about buddhism, and not getting this book solely because of who it is written by. Summary:

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An Open Heart: Practicing Compassion in Everyday Life

Publisher: Little, Brown
Authors: Dalai Lama Khyongla Rato Richard Gere Nicholas Vreeland

ISBN: 0316989797
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Summary: Insightful!
This is an easy to read book with tons of insight into a better mindset. You should read the book slowly -- take time to reflect on each idea, such as compassion. Keep the topics of the book in mind throughout your day, whether you're a mom at home, a student at school, or working in your cubicle. It will be the first step into inner peace and practicing compassion in every day life.

Summary: A Delight to read...as usual.
I have yet to read a book by the Dalai Lama that I was not impressed and moved by. This little book is easy to read and full of insight as well as ways to incorporate the Buddhist ideal of compassion into our every day lives. You can't go wrong with this one.

Summary: His presence shines through
Of the 8 books I've read by Ngawang Losang Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet, I like this one best (though I haven't read the Practice book others have mentioned). This one includes comments on several Buddhist texts (as have some of his others). However, this one is a bit more practical than the others--it includes some guidance on the 4 Immeasurables practices (loving kindness, compassion, equanimity, and joy--especially in others' happiness), Bodhichitta (Buddha Mind or universal compassion), and Shamatha or Shine (Calm or Tranquil Abiding). The last is the basic form of Tibetan Buddhist (Vajrayana) meditation. It is an essential starting point towards enlightenment--included in virtually all schools of Buddhism from Theravada (SE Asia) to Dzogchen and Mahamudra. All these teachings are presented in His Holiness' gentle, compassionate style, reflecting his own nature. I had the great fortune to meet him for a brief moment in Washington, DC and, IMHO, he is the most present and sincere and real person I've met. The value of his work (s) IMHO is more a reflection of what he is than who he is or what he says or writes.

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In the Buddha's Words: An Anthology of Discourses from the Pali Canon (Teachings of the Buddha)

Publisher: Wisdom Publications
Authors: The Dalai Lama Bhikkhu Bodhi

ISBN: 0861714911
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Summary: A comprehensive introduction to Buddha's teachings
A good and structured pattern of the buddha's essential teachings, that would lead the reader to get more and more interested in this philosophy. A book to have in your personal library if personal development is a priority.

Summary: Overview of the sutras
An excellent overview of the sutras (suttas in Pali) which gives more than an excellent introduction to the entire tipitaka of the Pali scriptures. If you have time to read only one book on the Buddhist scriptures, this is the one.

Summary: Thanks to Bhikkhu Bodhi
Very simply one of the best books on Buddhism that exists. Has helped me tremendously.

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	Letting Go of the Person You Used to Be: Lessons on Change, Loss, and Spiritual Transformation Publisher: Broadway Authors: Lama Surya Das
ISBN: 0767908732 List Price: $25.00 Amazon Price: This item is currently not available. Buy this book from amazon.com or from amazon.co.uk	Avg Cusomer Rating: 3 Reviews: Summary: Pleasant but not far reaching I have been pursuing Buddhist literature for many years and I have to admit I was a little bit disappointed with this book from Lama Surya Das. Whilst I hold his other two in higher regard (Awakening the Buddha within, Awakening the Buddhist Heart), I thought this particular rendition was lacking in substance. The title was somewhat misleading. Whilst Surya Das does discuss one of the virtues of Buddhism (if I can call it that)of letting go, it is purely a description of anecdotes of people who haven't let go. Letting go is such a simple thing and yet is also one of the hardest. If you're looking for instructions as to how to achieve 'letting go', there isn't any here. Anecdotes don't stop there - there are sprinkled everywhere throughout this book. The rest of the book looks at other elements such as loss and heroism. It's a bit of a mish mash of this and the other. I thought that there wasn't enough here to relate to the title of the book. Maybe a different title would have been more fitting, such as 'More Buddhist talk about Mindfulness'. If you are new to Buddhism and need evidence that you are not alone in your pain, then this book will provide you with stories of others like yourself. Compassion and understanding is yours to be gotten. There's nothing much more here. I'm of the impression that Surya Das is a stout practising Buddhist and a lot of his writing is geared towards participating in the solid practice of specific medidations and rituals. However, if you're like me and you find that Buddhist views resonate within you without becoming a devout follower, then I'd recommend you seek out other great works, such as those of Charlotte Beck or Pema Chodron. Summary: Very well written book Loved the book! Staight forward, easy to understand information. Very spiritual, not necessarily religious. This book made a lot of sense to me. Full of common-sense ideas and values. Will definitely read again. Summary: Poetically Practical Presentation This book is poetically succinct, practical, & sometimes poignant. It overstates the force of mindfulness (ignoring how priorities, values, karma affect situations) but packs a lot into 210 pp. Much is familiar to Buddhist practitioners, but is delightfully presented & well integrated-with morsels to enjoy for old-timers too. The author addresses both the positive & negative aspects of pain & suffering--p. xiii: "In life pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional...without the pain of inner irritation, the pearls of wisdom will not be produced within us...The Pearl Principle: no pain, no transformative gain." He emphasizes & provides a balanced approach to life's tribulations & changes-- pp. 34-5: "The teachings of the Buddha stress balance...Throughout his life, he taught his followers to value balance, restraint, & moderation. He called it the Middle Way: a path of harmonious, non-harming, moderation, virtue, & spiritual investigation-a practical application of the Golden Mean." Maintaining a Buddhist perspective, he gives supporting parallels from other traditions, East & West (e.g. p. 122: Philo-"Be kind for everyone you meet is fighting a great battle"). His approach is primarily psychological with some metaphysics as well-- pp. 43-4: "Loss & suffering can also bring faith. Suffering can be redemptive; it helps burn away superficiality & complacency" & p. 42: "For some of us, the most consistently troublesome thing about loss is the destruction of expectations." He presents practical advice--meditative techniques (e.g. chewing, walking & mindfulness meditations), Medicine Buddha practice (see Thrangu Rinpoche's Medicine Buddha Teachings 1559392169), & Chod. Some is quite touching-based on case histories--p. 47: Laura-"I once read that forgiveness means letting go of the hope for a better past" & his own experiences (e.g. with Suil) or quite profound--p. 83: "The 3rd Patriarch said long ago, `Do not seek for truth; merely cease to cherish opinions' & p. 86: "Nonattachment is the supreme spiritual discipline; non-clinging is the ultimate form of generosity." He addresses difficult topics such as Western romantic relationships in a practical, sensitive manner--p. 163: "We tend to transform our memories into the stuff of legend & myth" & p. 168: "Sometimes you have to keep the love in your heart, but let the object of your affection go." Self-change is the proper response to change itself because, p. 185: "One definition of insanity is doing what we have always done & expecting a different result." He gives a fine exposition on anger--p. 199: "There is wisdom to be found even in anger: with its sharp cutting edge, anger helps us to see what may be wrong. Strong emotions can raise our energy & our conscious awareness. We can direct these qualities into positive action. Anger always reminds us that something needs to change or at least be attended to, usually sooner than later...I see our difficult emotions as disruptive children. When they are acting up it is time to be there for them & with them." And, as with our children--p. 210: "Letting go is the ultimate act of generosity & faith." It's been said that we only truly keep what we give away. Summary:

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Awakening the Buddha Within : Tibetan Wisdom for the Western World

Publisher: Broadway
Authors: Lama Surya Das

ISBN: 0767901576
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Summary: Great western Buddhism introduction
This book served as my introduction to Buddhism which has created a snowball effect. I've since read all of Lama Surya Das' books and then some and have given this book as a gift to close friends. I also highly recommend anything by Thich Nhat Hanh.

Summary: Buddha for Beginners
Lama Sura Das does an excellent job communicating Buddhism for the Western world. We are all Buddhas inside, it doesn't matter if you are Christian, Jewish, or Muslim. Buddhism is a way of living, not a "Church" as we may think of it. I myself am a Christian and find it exciting how Jesus led a Buddha like life! This book opens many doors to spirituality that are crying out to be explored! Awaken your Buddha within!!!

Summary: Great intro, a little repetitive
This is a great intro to Tibetan Buddhism, although towards the end it gets too repetitive. You can probably just read the first half and get everything you need to know. Also, it is really written from the perspective of the more traditional Buddhist teachings, i.e. Hinayana or Theraveda, as opposed to the mystical Tibetan teachings that form the basis for Tantra or Mahayana forms. So if you are just starting out on your study of Tibetan Buddhism, by all means read this book, but don't stop there.

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Healing Anger: The Power of Patience from a Buddhist Perspective

Publisher: Snow Lion Publications
Authors: The Dalai Lama

ISBN: 1559390735
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Summary: To much terminology
To my opinion the second part of the book it goes too deep into Buddhist terminology and into theories beyond the apprehension of a western reader.
The theory of emptiness and complicated issues of high level Buddhist philosophy shouldn't have been a part of a book with the title "healing anger"!

Summary: Excellent
Snow Lion Publications is a landmark when it comes to Buddhist literature, up there with Wisdom Books and Shambhala Publications. The Dalai Lama faces the issues of our times in this book; for we live in times of so much violence and anger in various situations, not just "global." We encounter them in our family life, in our work life, et cetera. Everywhere we go, this matter seems to pop right up! As you might expect, the practice out of this the Dalai Lama prescribes is the cultivation of compassion; cultivating patience. Patience, His Holiness points out, permits us to mindfully and calmly accept hardship, thus enabling us to see things as they are unclouded.

In here you find an old text from the 11th century which is quite important to Tibet known as the "Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life" by Shantideva. The Dalai Lama uses this text as his entire groundwork for explaining the practice and place of patience in our lives, if of course, we are aspiring and actualizing our life as a bodhisattva. Also a good book on this subject is "Anger: Wisdom For Cooling the Flames." Sure the books are dissimilar in style and format, while simultaneously they drive towards the same end point; realizing our life as a bodhisattva. Get this book right away, it's a must have!

Summary: Logical and needed in today's world
This book is essential reading for those like myself who have difficulty restraining their anger. Reading this book has allowed me to understand the causes that lead to anger and ultimately, to suffering. At it's deepest level, Healing Anger is about how to get oneself on the road to the cessation from suffering by changing one's outlook on the world and on oneself.

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