Zen Keys: A Guide to Zen Practice - Softcover

Hanh, Thich Nhat

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0385475616 ISBN 13: 9780385475617

Publisher: Bantam Doubleday Dell, 1994

Synopsis

Thich Nhat Hanh brings his warmth and clarity to this unique explication of Zen Buddhism. Beginning with a discussion of daily life in a Zen monastery, Nhat Hanh illustrates the character of Zen as practiced in Vietnam, and gives the reader clear explanations of the central elements of Zen practice and philosophy. Thorough attention is given to concepts such as Awareness and Impermanence, and to contemporary issues such as the conflicts between modern technology and spirituality. The final section includes a set of 43 koans from the 13th century Vietnamese master, Tran Thai Tong, which are translated here for the first time into English. Originally published in 1974, "Zen Keys" has been unavailable for several years but is now reissued by popular demand. Readers will find it as fresh today as when it was first written, and will be struck by the timelessness of its insights. What makes this work particularly compelling is that Nhat Hanh is able to invigorate what in other presentations may seem like empty abstract principles. The example he has set in his own life as a relentless advocate for peace brings strength and a realistic understanding to idealistic Buddhist goals. In "Zen Keys," Thich Nhat Hanh presents the philosophy which has enabled him to be mindful of peace in every moment. An excellent introduction from Philip Kapleau (author of the classic "Three Pillars Of Zen" ) provides background on the emerging American Zen tradition.

About this title

From the Back Cover

Thich Nhat Hanh is one of the most beloved masters of Zen in the world. He has brought his warmth and clarity to this unique exploration of Zen Buddhism in which he offers a clear explanation of the central elements of Zen practice and philosophy. The book includes helpful guidance on living a Zen life, using concepts like mindfulness, and also addresses contemporary issues such as the conflict between modern technology and spirituality.

Originally published in 1974 and now completely revised, 'Zen Keys' brings to life the abstract principles of the Zen tradition to meet the ever increasing demand for these ideas in the West. Thich Nhat Hanh shares the philosophy that has allowed him to be mindful of peace in every moment. The example he has set in his own life as a staunch advocate for peace illustrates how the idealistic goals of Buddhism can be brought powerfully into reality. The final section of the book contains a set of 43 koans from the thirteenth-century Vietnamese master Tran Thai Tong, beautifully translated for the first time in English.

Thich Nhat Hanh is a Vietnamese Zen Master, a poet and a spokesman for the Vietnamese Buddhist peace movement. In 1967 he was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize by Martin Luther King, Jr. He is the author of several books, including 'Peace is Every Step, The Miracle of Mindfulness' and 'Being Peace'.

About the Author

Thich Nhat Hanh is a Vietnamese Buddhist monk, poet, and peacemaker who was nominated by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for the Nobel Peace Prize. The author of many books, including Living Buddha, Living Christ, he lives in France in the monastic community known as Plum Village and lectures and gives retreats regularly in North America.

Edition details

• Publisher: Bantam Doubleday Dell
• Publication date: 1994
• ISBN 10: 0385475616
• ISBN 13: 9780385475617
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 208