The Buddha's Teachings on Social and Communal Harmony: An Anthology of Discourses from the Pali Canon (The Teachings of the Buddha)

The Buddha's Teachings on Social and Communal Harmony: An Anthology of Discourses from the Pali Canon (The Teachings of the Buddha)

Bhikkhu Bodhi, His Holiness the Dalai Lama (Foreword by)
$17.95
Publication Date: December 13th, 2016
Publisher:
Wisdom Publications
ISBN:
9781614293552
Pages:
240

Description

In a world of conflict and strife, how can we be advocates of peace and justice? 

In this volume acclaimed scholar-monk Bhikkhu Bodhi has collected and translated the Buddha’s teachings on conflict resolution, interpersonal and social problem-solving, and the forging of harmonious relationships. The selections, all drawn from the Pali Canon, the earliest record of the Buddha’s discourses, are organized into ten thematic chapters. The chapters deal with such topics as the quelling of anger, good friendship, intentional communities, the settlement of disputes, and the establishing of an equitable society. Each chapter begins with a concise and informative introduction by the translator that guides us toward a deeper understanding of the texts that follow.

In times of social conflict, intolerance, and war, the Buddha’s approach to creating and sustaining peace takes on a new and urgent significance. Even readers unacquainted with Buddhism will appreciate these ancient teachings, always clear, practical, undogmatic, and so contemporary in flavor. The Buddha’s Teachings on Social and Communal Harmony will prove to be essential reading for anyone seeking to bring peace into their communities and into the wider world.

About the Author

His Holiness the Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of the Tibetan people, a Nobel Peace Prize recipient, and a beacon of inspiration for Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike. He has persistently reached out across religious and political lines and has engaged in dialogue with scientists in his mission to advance peace and understanding in the world. In doing so, he embodies his motto: “My religion is kindness.”

 

Praise for The Buddha's Teachings on Social and Communal Harmony: An Anthology of Discourses from the Pali Canon (The Teachings of the Buddha)

“This book is essential reading for the socially engaged individual, Buddhist or otherwise.”
— Buddhadharma

“Through scholarship and wise discernment Bhikkhu Bodhi has choosen a set of discourses that uncover and make clear the Buddha's approach to social affairs. A timely and powerful resource for all varieties of peace work, The Buddha's Teachings on Social and Communal Harmony provides a direct way to refer  to the Buddha's teachings around developing civil society. This is a fantastic support and inspiration for all of us who value and wish to foster a more harmonious world.”
— Sharon Salzberg, author of Lovingkindness and Real Happiness

“Bhikkhu Bodhi, the master scholar/translator of the Buddha’s teachings, has assembled perhaps his most important book. He draws upon on the depth of exploration of the Buddha teachings on the importance of community life. This book offers a precise and contemporary translation on the application of social and communal harmony, religious and secular. Everyone from presidents, to politicians, to business leaders, religious authorities, educators and those working to develop society can dip into this book for invaluable insights and their application. You will find this book has much to offer whether dealing with family issues, skillful alternatives to blame, anger and violence, social conflict and national and international issues requiring non-violent resolution. It needs to be on the desk of every institution. Remember to read slowly a passage to glean out the wisdom for today. Then apply.”
— Christopher Titmuss, author of An Awakened Life

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