Buddhism Plain and Simple [Paperback]

You might want to digest this book slowly, a few pages at a time. Although Zen teacher Steve Hagen has a knack for putting the philosophy of Buddhism in a "plain and simple" package, it may take a while to sink in. There is so much there. Seeing reality, realizing the wisdom of the self, breaking free of dualistic thinking--this is pretty heady stuff. Thankfully, Hagen passes it along in the form of examples from life, psychological tidbits, and stories from Buddhist teachers past and present. And when it clicks in, it can be life-transforming. Hagen explains this shift in outlook and how the fundamental way we look at the world affects everything we do. As an outline, Hagen follows the basic teachings of the Buddha, and we see that, rather than dogmatic truths, they are reminders for us as we reconsider the life we have taken for granted for so long. As it turns out, Buddhism is life, plain and simple. --Brian Bruya

Hagen's concise work, a brief introduction to Zen Buddhism, is arranged in a straightforward manner with lucid explanations. He describes techniques for meditation, making this a rather practical recording. Reading this abridgment of his own work, the Zen priest's soft, serene voice is pleasing to the ear; the pace is unhurried, allowing the listener to grasp the material. Libraries with a demand for New Age/Eastern religions should have this tape.AMichael T. Fein, Catawba Valley Community Coll., Hickory, NC
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Steve Hagen has studied Buddhism for thirty years, including fifteen years with Zen Master Dainin Katagiri, from who he received Dharma Transmission (endorsement to teach).  He is a Zen priest currently teaching at the Dharma Field Meditation and Learning Center in Minneapolis.  The author of How the World Can Be the Way It Is, he lives in Minneapolis.

--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

A Zen priest and teacher, Hagen offers a direct and clear explanation of the teachings of the Buddha. Hagen's presentation is practical and down-to-earth, dealing exclusively with awareness in the here and now. Although particularly instructive to beginners, the program also offers a solid overview for those familiar with Buddhism. Although Hagen reads his work well enough in a pleasant, calm voice, his presentation lacks the crispness and nuances of a professional narrator or an author more practiced in the art of the audiobook. P.B.J. © AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine-- Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.