Zen Buddhism: Selected Writings of D. T. Suzuki - Softcover

Daisetz T. Suzuki

Softcover

ISBN 10: 038548349X ISBN 13: 9780385483490

Publisher: Harmony, 1996

Synopsis

No other figure in history has played a bigger part in opening the West to Buddhism than the eminent Zen author, D.T. Suzuki, and in this reissue of his best work readers are given the very heart of Zen teaching. Zen Buddhism, which sold more than 125,000 as an Anchor paperback after its publication in 1956, includes a basic historical background as well as a thorough overview of the techniques for Zen practice. Concepts and terminology such as satori, zazen, and koans, as well as the various elements of this philosophy are all given clear explanations. But while Suzuki takes nothing for granted in the reader's understanding of the fundamentals, he does not give a merely rudimentary overview. Each of the essays included here, particularly those on the unconscious mind and the relation of Zen to Western philosophy, go far beyond other sources for their penetrating insights and timeless wisdom.
What is most important about D.T. Suzuki's work, however--and what comes across so powerfully in these selections--is his unparalleled ability to communicate the experiential aspect of Zen. The intensity here with which Zen philosophy comes to life is without parallel in the canon of Buddhist literature. Suzuki stands apart from all teachers before or since because of his exceptional ability to eloquently capture in words the seemingly inexpressible essence of Zen.

About this title

Review:

The premier metaphysician of the 20th century, Martin Heidegger, once said in regard to D. T. Suzuki, "If I understand this man correctly, this is what I have been trying to say in all my writings." Roman Catholic writer Thomas Merton, analytical psychologist Carl Jung, social psychologist Erich Fromm, avant-garde musician John Cage, writer and social critic Alan Watts, poet Gary Snyder -- all influential in their own rights, claim a debt to Mr. Suzuki and his writings, the most representative of which are gathered here in Zen Buddhism. An intellectual understanding of Zen begins with this book.

About the Author:

D. T. SUZUKI (1869–1966), born and educated in Japan, was the chief emissary of Zen in the West. In addition to lecturing extensively throughout the world, he held teaching positions in Japan and at Columbia University.
WILLIAM BARRETT is a distinguished philosopher and teacher, and was instrumental in introducing existentialism to America. He is the author of The Death of the Soul and Irrational Man. He lives in Westchester County, New York.

About this edition

• Publisher: Harmony
• Publication date: 1996
• ISBN 10: 038548349X
• ISBN 13: 9780385483490
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 400
• Editor: William Barrett