Zen Keys: A Guide to Zen Practice - Softcover

Nhat Hanh, Thich

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0722531893 ISBN 13: 9780722531891

Publisher: Thorsons, 1995

Synopsis

Thich Nhat Hanh, the beloved author of Peace Is Every Step, has brought his warmth and clarity to this unique explication of Zen Buddhism. Beginning with stories from his first years in a Zen monastery, Nhat Hanh brings the Zen tradition in Vietnam to life and offers clears explanations of the central elements of Zen practice and philosophy. Thorough attention is given to concepts such as mindfulness, to contemporary issues such as the conflicts between modern technology and spirituality, and helpful guidance is offered for living the Zen life. The final section includes a set of forty-three koans from the thirteenth century Vietnamese master Tran Thai Tong, which are beautifully translated here for the first time into English. Originally published in 1974 and now completely revised, Zen Keys has been unavailable for several years but is now reissued to meet the ever-expanding need for a better understanding of Zen philosophy in the West. 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 the Thich Nhat Hanh is able to invigorate wha tin the presentations may seem 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 that has enabled him to be mindful of peace in every moment.

About this title

From the Publisher

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 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: Thorsons
• Publication date: 1995
• ISBN 10: 0722531893
• ISBN 13: 9780722531891
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 208