Leeds Buddhist Centre

Even though karma and rebirth are very much part of the popular perception of Buddhism they are often confused and confusing for many people. Buddhist and non-Buddhist alike have their own conceptions and misconceptions about these doctrines. Are rebirth and reincarnation the same thing? How many different types of karma are there? Do you need to accept rebirth and karma to be a Buddhist? Nagapriya's book is here to help clear the confusion.

Nagapriya comes from a modern Western perspective however he fully acknowledges the more traditional views. He sets the historical context for the development of the karma and rebirth doctrines and explores their development in various Buddhist traditions, considering such ideas as the six realms, transference of merit and the Tibetean tulku system of rebirth. He then brings it all together and asks what it all means and is it all necessary?

The books elucidates traditional doctrines alongside some very modern views. Ultimately the book leaves it open for the reader to decide how they wish to interpret these central Buddhist doctrines. Enough ideas are put forward for the reader to make up their own mind. A thought provoking work on an often difficult subject.

This one is short but perfectly formed. Chris Pauling gives a quick but nonetheless thorough introduction to Buddhism that covers the main areas. It has sections on the Buddha, ethics, meditation, the dharma and the importance of ritual. It's rounded off by a quick tour round the history of Buddhism outlining the major schools and it's expansion ultimately into the West.

Although the book is a very readable account it doesn't mean that it's Buddhism for Dummies. It's clear overview gives the reader the opportunity to appreciate how the facets of Buddhism fits together and even the more seasoned practioner may find new perspectives within it's pages.

This books was recommended to me by someone who had already bought 5 copies. He felt that it was the ideal gift to give to family and friends who wanted to know just what this Buddhism thing was. High praise indeed.

The vast history of Buddhism and it's many schools can sometimes feel overwhelming. Andrew Skilton's a grand tour of Buddhism from 2500 BCE to the modern era brings it into view for the non-academic reader. The first part of the book covers development of Buddhism in India from before the time of the Buddha. The second part takes the broader geographical view and covers it's development in Asian countries from Persia all the way through to Japan.

The book covers a range of complex philosopies and ideas but is still remains accessible to the interested reader. So if you want to tell your Mahayana from your Vajrayana and distinguish your Tripitaka from your Abhidharma then this may be the book for you. It's one that you'll undoubtedly find yourself coming back to.

The following books may also be of interest.

Who is the Buddha?

By Sangharakshita

Published By Windhorse

The founder of the Triratna discusses the founder of Buddhism itself. Readable and illuminating in equal parts.

What is the Dharma?

By Sangharakshita

Published By Windhorse

What indeed? A vast subject excellently explained.