Synopses & Reviews
Clear and simple teachings on voidness and living an ethical life.
In Heartwood of the Bodhi Tree, Buddhadasa Bhikkhu presents in simple language the philosophy of voidness, or sunnata, that lies at the heart of the Buddhism. By carefully tying voidness to ethical discipline, Buddhadasa provides us clear and open grounds to reflect on the place of the philosophy in our lives. With his ecumenical, stimulating, and enthusiastically engaged approach to reading the Buddha's teaching in full flourish, Ajahn Buddhadasa transforms the jungle of philosophy into a glade as inviting as the one in which he famously taught.
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"Masterfully explains how to develop this profound practice in daily life."
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"Heartwood of the Bodhi Tree introduces emptiness (voidness) in a clear and full way as an original teaching of the Buddha. It emphasizes the importance of emptiness in all Buddhist traditions and contributes to non-sectarian dialogue and understanding."
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"One of the most prolific and influential teachers in our modern era ... Wisdom does a wonderful service by publishing Heartwood of the Bodhi Tree, a precious taste of Buddhadasa's way."
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"A remarkable book. ... This beautiful book captures the spacious and profound teachings of the Thai forest tradition."
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"Clear and straightforward, the reader feels just how possible and practical it is to lead a happy life. Highly recommended."
About the Author
Buddhadasa Bhikkhu (1906-1993) was a famous and influential Thai Buddhist philosopher, widely known as an innovative reinterpreter of Buddhist doctrine and Thai folk belief. Buddhadasa fostered a reformation of conventional religious perception in his home country, as well as abroad. Although he was an ordained Buddhist monk, he rejected specific religious identification and considered all faiths as principally one. Since the 1960s his work has inspired a new generation of socially concerned individuals around the world. He is the author of numerous works, including Mindfulness with Breathing: A Manual for Serious Beginners.