Synopses & Reviews
The revolutionary figures in this book are those innovative, non-conformist masters--Zen "madmen"--whose unorthodox behavior has helped define the radical countercultural movement known simply as Zen.
In Zen Radicals, Rebels, and Reformers you'll meet Zen boat-rockers that span from early eighth-century China all the way to the bustling streets of modern-day America with a stop in the middle to visit a courageous Zen master who made the ultimate sacrifice in his resistance to the brutal actions of the Japanese government in World War II.
These remarkable masters show us through their audacious actions and fearless words that the pursuit of spiritual awakening must ultimately be a rebellion against the very foundations of suffering in the world.
Review
"These guys are my heroes, and Perle Besserman and Manfred Steger have done a tremendous job of bringing their stories to life. It's important to put a spotlight on the radical, rebellious characters who have shaped the Zen Buddhist lineage. I really like this book."
Synopsis
The revolutionary figures in this book are those innovative, nonconformist Zen masters who often disguised their spiritual prowess by portraying themselves as lowly drifters, beggars, and Zen "madmen." They are individuals whose unorthodox behavior has defined the radical Buddhist movement known simply as Zen. This book contains stories of Zen "boat-rockers" and rebels that range from early 8th-century China all the way to the bustling streets of modern day America. These remarkable masters remind us that the pursuit of spiritual awakening is not an insular process but rather a direct rebellion with the very foundations of suffering in the world.
About the Author
Besserman and Manfred B. Steger are the founding co-teachers of the Princeton Area Zen Group and the authors of Grassroots Zen. Perle and Manfred divide their time between Melbourne, Australia, and Honolulu, Hawai'i.