Buddhism

[FP]

Are any Answerbankers interested in or practicing Buddhists?  I am not a religious person, but consider myself quite spiritual and think that some of the Buddhist beliefs know about are akin to my own thinking.  Can anyone recommend a good book that is easy to read and give me their views.

[cardboard]

Ive never been religious at all, but when i was travelling in Thailand I spent a few days staying with a Buddhist monk. And that was really interesting, o I would completely recommend looking at it further

[FP]

Thanks Cardboard.  I watched Himalya with Michael Palin on Sunday (It's been a brilliant series) and was particularly intrigued by his time spent with Buddhist people in Tibet.  Their values seemed fantastic and they were so open minded and very calm - so different to most religions.  They have such great respect for all creatures.  They also seemed to have terrific a sense of humour.

[smudge]

I would be very interested in reading any further comments on this subject too, as both my husband & I have in the past considered joining a Buddist group. Although it's a bit like most things in life that you mean to get round to doing, but never seem to have the time!

[slimfandango]

Ah yes...nothing exists, and human suffering comes about because we strive to get somewhere, and we are all just reliving past lives. I know some religions seem tosh, but buddhism, no offence, doesn't even stand up to the most basic philosophical scrutiny. I'd advise you to leave it well alone.

[FP]

I don't know enough to comment slimfandango, but the people on the programme did not believe in reincarnation or certain other aspects of Buddhism, whilst still living by Buddhist principles. 

[Bangkok]

My wife is Buddhist, and I was brought up Methodist.  As with all religions, there is good and bad to be found, good in the priinciples and bad in the practice.  There is a tendancy in both religions to put it back in the cupboard with your proverbial Sinday best. 

 

However, I am enjoying learning more about it - mainly by short pamphlets and discussions.  I had a Buddhist wedding, which was a wonderful experience.  I haven't read the following books, but a friend has read the first and said it was ok, and the reviewers seem to think so to.  the second seems a reasonable introduction. 

 

http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/0553505378/qid=1100011069/sr=1-9/ref=sr_1_11_9/202-5183582-4899820

http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/0802130313/qid=1100011069/sr=2-2/ref=sr_2_11_2/202-5183582-4899820

[FP]

Thanks so much Bangkok.  I have just looked at these on the Amazon site and will order them.  I really appreciate your reply.

[Bangkok]

Fakeplastic, it's a pleasure.  Hope they help. 

[slimfandango]

Sure, I see the distinction. I guess we could all use principles. I'm just getting over some religious brain washing, makes one a little jumpy :0)

[splodge24]

I've always been interested Buddhist beliefs and traditions but never known where to find more info. Thanks Fakeplastic for putting that question forward, I've also ordered one of the books mentioned as a result! Happy reading!

[myron21]

There are some really good books by wong kiew kit, on tai chi and zen, also waysun liau wrote an excellent book called tai chi classics, tai chi has strong links to buddhism, the two writers mentioned above are really interesting and make the whole subject come alive.

[mash]

The Feeling Buddha by David Brazier is good for the beginner

[buzy bee]

I am by nature a very spiritual person, I tend to follow my nose rather than follow any religion, however my life has led me to take on many Buddhist beliefs (I do not regard myself as a buddhist).  It sounds as if maybe it is spirituality itself you are exploring. 

Books for beginners are:

I suspect conversations with God would allow you to explore that further,