Buddhism

One Teacher, Many Traditions

By: His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Thubten Chodron

Narrated by: Fajer Al-Kaisi

Length: 12 hrs and 13 mins

Publisher's summary

Explore the common ground underlying the diverse expressions of the Buddha's teachings with two of Tibetan Buddhism's best-selling authors.

Buddhism is practiced by hundreds of millions of people worldwide, from Tibetan caves to Tokyo temples to redwood retreats. To an outside viewer, it might be hard to see what they all have in common. In Buddhism, His Holiness the Dalai Lama and American Buddhist nun Thubten Chodron map out with clarity the convergences and the divergences between the two major strains of Buddhism - the Sanskrit traditions of Tibet and East Asia and the Pali traditions of Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia. Especially deep consideration is given to the foundational Indian traditions and their respective treatment of such central tenets as the four noble truths, the practice of meditation, and the meaning of nirvana enlightenment. The authors seek harmony and greater understanding among Buddhist traditions worldwide, illuminating the rich benefits of respectful dialogue and the many ways that Buddhists of all stripes share a common heritage and common goals.

Download the accompanying reference guide.

©2014 Tenzin Gyatso and Thubten Chodron (P)2016 Audible, Inc.

really hard to play

this is an amazing book. very good, thorough overview with a deeper dive jnto the basics of Buddhism. I just wish it didn't refuse to play more than 12-15 mins at a time without sotpping itself. it's the only book I've experienced that with, but it got downright awful by the end. almost didn't finish it. a shame too...the book is good, but the audible seems quite buggy

Buddhism history, traditions and practices

As a new practitioner was looking for a review of the history, traditions and practices of buddhism. The narrator is excellent and allowed me to concentrate on the information and writings.

Very complete instructions on Buddhism.

Sequentially and comprehensively presents correct views, passages, definitions, and commentary, on key elements of the Buddha's teachings from different schools and traditions, Pali, Sutra, Chan, Tibetan, etc. I've read and listened to many authors and teachers, and it's the first time I more clearly and precisely learn and hear about the particular steps that lead to a much greater understanding of the key aspects, practices, and conclusions of the Buddha. Very well structured, it details the entire path and dives into things I knew but lacked a basis to more fully see, and therefore experience. There are many examples to list, but for instance now I see how and why ignorance, or incorrect knowledge, aprehends things and the self as inherently existent. By discussing the thought process and specific possibilities behind inherent existence, it's helped me see how this is not possible. It goes step by step listing the different reasonings, like through a thought process of elimination to arrive at the more balanced and wise and correct view of interdependence. I had not read or heard the teaching with such detail, and which I was lacking. The material is very approachable, and is very well read, but it does dive deep and can be dense in some sense. It all depends on our motivation. Highly recommended for those who are committed to the path. May you be free from suffering.

A great novel

A wonderful book that I found to be developmental and maturative for a young man coming of age such as myself. I found this book to be highly relatable and generally intelligent. I further highly recommend this book.

Life changing!

This book has changed my life. So many of the chapters resonated with me and it’s apparent that I have work to do. I appreciated the history of Buddha and the specific instructions on mindfulness. Good read!

A Must Read For New Yoga Teachers!

I took a 200 and 300 hour yoga teacher training. This booked help meet put all the pieces together. Now, I feel like I am in pre-k.

Educational Book on Buddhism

It's a very dense but informative and educational book. This is not an introductory book. It is best for those with some understanding of Buddhism. It covers all aspects of Buddhism It would be helpful if this book had accompanying cliff notes or a quick reference guide to refer to once you've read the book.

Exceptional

This book is such a great tool to help improve your knowledge of Buddhism. The wisdom and compassion inside will certainly help you on your path

EDUCATIONAL

I am new to Buddhism.. have read several books on the Buddha’s teachings. Some of the parts are still above my head, but I will return to listening to these comprehensive views. The narrator makes it easy and a pleasure to listen to. A lot of information to process, so I decided to buy the book. Reading and listening to the book is a great help. It goes without saying that the Dalai Lama is a great teacher. Thanks to all involved to make this book available to us, JK.

An informative look at Buddhism

The author starts out immediately saying the teachings contained in the book are not the full teaching because the book would be too long and they wanted it at a beginner level. If this is a beginner level then I’m grateful the full teachings were withheld. I kept up with what the author was saying, but applying it will take time as this is a very deep set of teachings.

As I’ve done many times before and listened to the teachings of my college professor. He said to read a book every three months for a year to learn it. In this case I believe it will be much more flexible since this book brought up a lot I have to work through. The author caused me to look at things very differently than I had looked at them before. Be prepared for a change in thinking as you go through this book in your life.