The Mind and the Way: Buddhist Reflections of Life

Rating:
Summary: A wonderfully clear and humorous account of Buddhism
Review: This is a very special book edited from many of Ajahn Sumedho's discourses given at retreats in the UK and elsewhere. Ajahn Sumedho is a Theravadan monk who follows the Thai Forest Sangha tradition and who is the spiritual director of 4 monasteries in the UK and a number scattered around the globe. The Mind and the Way brings us to the practise of Buddhism rather than the theory. Ajahn Sumedho has a way of interpreting Buddhist concepts so that they are of direct relevance. His long years of experience shine through. In a book with many highlights I was particularly struck by his exposition of the transcendent element in Buddhism and its relationship to what some might call God. Ajahn Sumedho refers to the Buddhist approach as 'non-theistic' in that it does not personify the transcendent experience or attempt to describe it. Nirvana (or Nibbana in Pali)is referred to in many places in the Buddhist Scriptures, but usually in terms of superlatives or in what it is not. I can thoroughly recommend this book to anyone with a real interest in religious experience and an open heart.

Rating:
Summary: An Important Dharma Book
Review: This will sound cliche, but I will say it anyway because -- it's true. This book changed my life. I have been reading Dharma books for over a decade now, and have read many that were excellent. But, more than any other Dharma book I've ever read, The Mind and the Way has made my understanding of Buddhist teachings very real, practical and clear. This is not a preachy book about theories and dogma. It is about experience and apllication. This is Applied Dharma, explained in a simple and straightforward manner. Sumedho's tone is that of a familiar friend -- a spiriual friend, with a sense of humor. If you have any real interest in Dharma you MUST read this book.