There are an infinite amount of books offering in-depth explanations or guidance into varying Buddhist concepts, and have adapted the teachings into modern-day practicality.
This small compilation of popular Buddhist texts is in no way definitive, but should provide a satisfactory introduction to familiarizing yourself with Buddhist concepts and teachings.
Siddhartha, by Hermann Hesse, is a fictional, spiritual classic about a man in search of meaning. Siddhartha follows the footsteps of Buddha, but ultimately realizes that his own path is in fact The Way. It is a quick and easy read to begin to grasp many of the concepts Buddhism approaches.
Shambhala Publications not only has a robust library of books available for deepening your practice, it also provides children’s books to cultivate awareness and compassion in youth. Children’s books are great gifts for adults as well, as they lay out complex ideas in the most simplified ways.
The Heart of the Buddha’s Teachings, by Thich Nhat Hanh, dives into Buddhist concepts like the Four Noble Truths, the Noble Eightfold Path, the Three Doors of Liberation, the Three Dharma Seals, and the Seven Factors of Awakening.
Dropping Ashes on the Buddha: The Teaching of Zen Master Seung Sahn is a blessing of insight into the dharma speeches, formal Zen interviews, dialogues and personal letters between Zen Master Seung Sahn (signed S.S. on each letter) and his students, projecting the kong-an method for the first time through a modern-day, American experience. Bodhisattvas of all levels will attach their thinking minds to the questions posed by the Zen Master, and will juggle with not-knowing as they explore the foundations of zen study. Easy to read, and not easy, which is correct?
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Continue reading with Yoga and Tai Chi ~ An Intro to Buddhism, my recommendations for moving meditation.
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~An Intro to Buddhism~
These are my recommendations to begin-- or deepen-- your meditation practice and to understanding more about Buddhism: The apps, podcasts, websites and books that I turn to for seeking my True North.