This book is a must read for anyone looking to get an insight on Buddhism. It covers all aspects of Buddhism and defines what it is in such a way that everyone can understand it. Despite Buddhism being one of the oldest religions in the world, there are many people who still do not understand it. In fact, they misinterpret the teachings so much because they only know what they see in television and movies. These depictions of Buddhism are often wrong and send out the wrong message of what Buddhism actually teaches. In a nutshell, it teaches that suffering is bad, but it is also guaranteed in our physical world. It doesn't matter how rich or poor a person is because they will eventually endure suffering in their life. However, the state of mind you carry with you determines the amount of suffering you will endure. That is where the teachings of Buddha come into play. He will show you that refraining from cheating, lying, sexual misconduct, killing and intoxication are the key ways to overcome suffering upon yourself and others.
Buddhism was created by a young prince named Siddhartha Gautama, who later became known as Buddha. He is the central figure of this book because he was the one who created the Buddhist religion in the first place. Even to this day, Buddha is celebrated all over eastern society with big statues in his honor. Despite how godly they make Buddha out to be, he was still just a man. In fact, he was a prince who left his throne and wealth in order to become a wandering preacher that spread his teachings on ending suffering and finding peace. How many rich people in the modern age do you think would leave their wealth behind to become a poor humanitarian? There probably aren't too many, unless they were of the Buddhist faith because Buddhists do not care about monetary gains. Now no one is saying that you have to give away all your money and become a poor Buddhist on the streets. You will learn by reading this book that there are all kinds of Buddhist followers, not just monks and nuns. You can become a lay follower that still lives a life filled with money, sex and material things. Just as long as you are not hurting anybody then you can enjoy all the sensual pleasure that you want. Buddha isn't going to send you to hell for it.
What's covered in this book?
Preface
Introduction to Buddhism
Who was Buddha?
Buddha's life
Basics of Buddhism
Principles of Buddhism
Teachings of Buddha
Karma in Buddhism
Rebirth in Buddhism
What is Nirvana?
God in Buddhism
Three marks of existence
The three jewels in Buddhism - Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha
Buddhist philosophy
Buddhist spirituality
Types and major divisions of Buddhism
Zen Meditation
Four noble truths
The eight fold path
Vipassana Meditation
Buddhist precepts and how to keep them
Buddhism and sex
Buddhism and alcohol
Animals in Buddhism
Human suffering or Dukkha in Buddhism
Western Buddhism
Buddhism in America
Buddhism and vegetarianism
Buddhism can change your life
Inner peace through Buddhism
Buddhism and Christianity - Differences and similarities
Buddhist ethics
Buddhism and homosexuality
How to become a Buddhist?
How to practice Buddhism without converting?
Buddhist meditation
Power of meditation
How to find enlightenment?
Conclusion