Buddhish
A Guide to the 20 Most Important Buddhist Ideas for the Curious and Skeptical
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- $18.99
Publisher Description
An engaging, accessible introduction to Buddhism for those who are looking to explore a new spiritual tradition or understand the roots of their mindfulness practice.
Are you curious about Buddhism but find yourself met with scholarly texts or high-minded moralizing every time you try to pick up a book about it? Well, if so, relax. This is no ordinary introduction to Buddhism; there are none of the saccharine platitudes and dense pontification that you may have come to expect. Buddhish is a readable introduction for complete newcomers that provides an objective, streamlined overview of the tradition—from unpacking the Four Noble Truths to understanding what “nirvana” actually means. For those who have already dipped their toes into the tradition through the practice of mindfulness or meditation, this guide will help you create a more well-rounded and informed experience by delving into the history of the Buddhist traditions that shape a mindful practice.
Buddhist scholar Dr. Pierce Salguero analyzes the ideas and philosophy of the complex tradition through the eyes of both a critic and an admirer. He shares anecdotes from his time at a Thai monastery, stories from the years he spent living throughout Asia, and other personal experiences that have shaped his study of Buddhism. Through this guide, readers will have the opportunity to develop an approach to practice that is not quite Buddhist but Buddhish.
Through engaging and lighthearted stories, Dr. Salguero breaks down 20 central principles of the tradition, including:
• Awakening
• Suffering
• Doubt
• Karma
• Buddha Nature
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Salguero (A Global History of Buddhism and Medicine), professor of Asian history and religious studies at Pennsylvania State University, offers an informative, skeptic-friendly introduction to 20 fundamental Buddhist concepts. In accessible language, Salguero covers topics such as awakening, suffering, karma, non-self, mindfulness, and more, raising questions that stimulate critical thinking without condescending to provide definitive answers: "Only you can say whether or not this perspective helps you." The author states upfront that he identifies as "Buddhish" and disagrees with many of Buddhism's philosophies, despite his experience as a monk and academic interest in the religion. As such, his evenhanded approach empathizes without tempering critique as he tackles devotional rituals, misogyny and patriarchy, and the social implications of karma. Salguero exercises remarkable facility and care in faithfully capturing an unromanticized Buddhism as a living tradition while encouraging readers to draw their own conclusions, offering up a balanced and broad overview of the faith. Those new to Buddhism will find this a nuanced and approachable explanation of its essential concepts.
