Peaceful Action, Open Heart: Lessons from the Lotus Sutra
by Thich Nhat Hanh (9781888375930)

Renowned Zen teacher Hanh explores the Lotus Sutra's main theme--that everyone has the capacity to become a Buddha and that the Buddha nature is inherent in everything--while emphasizing that Buddha-nature is the basis for peaceful action.
The Lotus Sutra is one of the most revered Mahayana texts, yet there are very few commentaries on it available in English. In this book, renowned Zen teacher Thich Nhat Hanh explores the Sutra's main theme -- that everyone has the capacity to become a Buddha and that the Buddha nature is inherent in everything -- while emphasizing that Buddha-nature is the basis for peaceful action. Hanh interprets the Sutra with his signature depth of vision, lucidity, and clarity, showing how both individuals and nations can use its wisdom to solve the many problems facing the world today. Invoking a wide range of current topics, from the threat of terrorism to the degradation of the environment to the Palestinian-Israeli crisis, he challenges the U.N. to change from an organization to an organism working for peace and harmony. In doing so, he demonstrates the practical application of this sacred text to today's most pressing issues.

One of the best known and most respected Zen masters in the world today, poet, and peace and human rights activist, Thich Nhat Hanh has led an extraordinary life. Born in central Vietnam in 1926 he joined the monkshood at the age of sixteen. The Vietnam War confronted the monasteries with the question of whether to adhere to the contemplative life and remain meditating in the monasteries, or to help the villagers suffering under bombings and other devastation of the war. Nhat Hanh was one of those who chose to do both, helping to found the "engaged Buddhism" movement. His life has since been dedicated to the work of inner transformation for the benefit of individuals and society.

Thich Nhat Hanh continues to live in Plum Village in the meditation community he founded, where he teaches, writes, and gardens; and he leads retreats worldwide on "the art of mindful living."

USD $16.95

   Dispatch: 3 to 7 business days, stock levels permitting