The Dhammapada: Teachings of the Buddha - Book and Audio-CD Set

The Dhammapada is the most widely studied Buddhist scripture, enjoyed for centuries by Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike. This classic text of teaching verses conveys the philosophical and practical foundations of the Buddhist tradition. The text presents two distinct goals: the first is attaining happiness in this life (or in future lives); the second is the achievement of spiritual liberation, lasting freedom, absolute peace.

For centuries, this text has been studied in its original Pali, the canonical language of Buddhism in Southeast Asia. In Pali, Dhamma means truth, law, discipline. Pada means path, step, foot. Thus, this popular teaching text describes how to walk the path of truth. With extensive explanatory notes, this edition combines a rigorous attention to detail in bringing forth the original text with Gil Fronsdal's personal knowledge of the Buddhist path. It is the first translation of this text to be published in English that is both truly accurate and enjoyable to read.

This unabridged book-and-CD edition, read by renowned Buddhist teacher Jack Kornfield, offers a new way to encounter the beauty and power of these ancient teachings.

Includes 2 CDs.

“Fronsdal’s intimacy with the text is obvious: the verses ring out clearly on the first read, communicating their meaning with precision and poetic sensitivity.”—Tricycle

"Fronsdal takes care in his choice of words and draws out subtleties of meaning with important significance for people who practice meditation."—Shambhala Sun
"At last a translation of the Dhammapada that combines academic precision in the translation of Pali terms, literary sensitivity to phrasing and meter, and a heartfelt commitment to Buddhist practice. Gil Fronsdal's version of this classic text will set a new standard for scholars and practitioners alike."—Stephen Batchelor, author of Buddhism without Beliefs and Living with the Devil

"The language is clear, precise, and inspiring, the phrasing spare and elegant, and the depth of these wisdom teachings apparent on every page. Gil's wonderful work brings these timeless passages of the Buddha right into our hearts. Highly recommended."—Joseph Goldstein, author of One Dharma: The Emerging Western Buddhism

"The wish-fulfilling gem of clarity reveals itself; ancient teachings resonate with today's awareness. What a blessing!"—Edward Espe Brown, Zen Priest, author of The Tassajara Bread Book and editor of Not Always So

"A fine new translation of an ancient classic. Fronsdal's balance of fidelity to the text and sensitivity to its spirit is perfect. A book to be treasured."—Carl Bielefeldt, Stanford University