Buddhism for Beginners

I really enjoyed these lectures. They definitely give a greater understanding of what Buddhism means. However, I do think I wouldn't have grasped many of the deeper meanings if I hadn't had some introduction to very, very basic Buddhist concepts to begin with. I would recommend listening to "A New Earth" by Eckhart Tolle before listening to this if you are a true beginner and a Westerner. Most of it was extremely helpful (see my review on that one). My only other complaint about this audiobook is that Jack Kornfield really seems to love the sound of his own voice. Sounds hypercritical, but the breathy, caressing voice could be a little nauseating at times.

For me, this has been the next best thing to having a great teacher in my own home. His calm manner, deep insights and easy to understand presentation are a gift to anyone interested in knowing more about Buddhist philosophy. I have listened to this over and over again and get something more each time. Along with Thich Nhat Hanh and Pema Chodron, the teachings of Jack Kornfield have had a life changing a influence in my life. I am grateful to have these audio recordings so easily available.

I almost didn't get this book because of the reviews about Jack Kornfield's speaking voice. I'm glad I didn't make that huge mistake.

If you're interested in learning about Buddhism, then this is the book. This is the guy to explain it to you. His voice is perfect for what he's explaining. He's not reading the pages into a microphone in a studio somewhere, he's speaking from his heart with genuine compassion.

This is a good quality recording of a series of informative speeches given to a small audience. The speaker is a Buddhism master, and I think he's enlightened and is passing the Buddha's wisdom as well as his own down to students who wish to learn. I am just beginning my studies of Buddhism and I feel like this was the perfect introduction.

If you're interested in learning about Buddhism, get this. You won't be sorry.

This is a wonderful series of dharma talks given by the foremost (at least in my mind) American Buddhist teacher, Jack Kornfield. Kornfield's voice and manner are warm, soothing, and kind, and he illustrates his distillation of Buddhist teachings with everything from real-life anecdotes, poetry, and jokes. It is a pleasure to listen to, from beginning to end. The beauty of these talks is that they do not require a previous knowledge of Buddhism or a desire to immerse one's self in scripture. Kornfield gives practical advice on cultivating mindfulness, lovingkindness, and interconnectedness for even the most non-dogmatic of listeners. What a delight!

I was weary at first since some were complaining about the speaker, saying he was irritating and to be honest it took me a chapter to get into the way he speaks. Ended up really liking the speaker though his quotes from Don Juan Matus to Woody Alan made it easy to relate to the stories and philosophies.

Would recommend.

I'm enjoying this talk immensely. Jack Kornfield is a master speaker, and has an excellent speaking voice. He clearly speaks from his heart. The talk is full of great quotes from great people, and Kornfield knows exactly where to use them to make his point. He mixes humor, quotes, wisdom and compassion to make for a great and compelling introduction to Buddhism. This is one of the best Audible books I can remember listening to.

Mr Kornfield's presentation is informative and at times, very funny. If you've been curious about Buddhism, I would highly suggest that you give this audiobook a try. Even if you are not looking for enlightenment, this selection has information for leading a calm, centered and spiritual life. At first the live audience threw me off but I came to appreciate their reactions and laughter and got great enjoyment from it. I also purchased Meditation for Beginners from Mr Kornfield and have also found it helpful and enjoyable. Listen at bedtime for a great nights sleep.

It was this recording that really touched me. Jack Kornfield has the right style to talk to the west. A really beautiful way of presenting the Buddhas teachings in a way that really means something in everyday life.

Excellent book for people interested in learning about Buddhism. Jack Kornfield explains it all in a simple and inspiring way. Don't be put down by comments below about the way he speaks, you won't regret listening to this book.

a most excellent book. i will admit that he kinda sounds like a subdued Mr. Rogers at naptime. the speaking voice kinda turned me off at first but i hung with it because of the content. he has a good cadence and clarity of speech so it's easy to get past the tone.