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Books From University Presses

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The Legend of Miaoshan
Glen Dudbridge | Oxford University Press

The Legend of Miaoshan

$59.90

Goodreads rating: 4.43

$59.90

If you're intrigued by the interplay of cultural values and personal faith, "The Legend of Miaoshan" promises a compelling dive. The story offers a profound exploration of a woman's struggle between her religious devotion and the demands of her family. As you follow Miaoshan's journey towards divine status, you'll be immersed in a narrative that beautifully encapsulates the dilemmas faced when personal beliefs clash with societal expectations. Its depth might resonate with you deeply if you appreciate tales where myth and symbolism converge to highlight broader human experiences.
Terry Eagleton | Oxford University Press, Usa

The Meaning of Life

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$9.90

If you find yourself pondering the grand question, "What's it all about?" Terry Eagleton's "The Meaning of Life" could be the engaging companion you need. With his wit and profound insights, he sifts through cultural and philosophical responses to life's meaning, steering clear of cliches and instead offering a perspective that champions living fully and authentically. It's a read that's both intellectually stimulating and surprisingly entertaining.
The Integrity of the Yoga Darsana: A Reconsideration of Classical Yoga
Ian Whicher | State University Of New York Press

The Integrity of the Yoga Darsana: A Reconsideration of Classical Yoga

$14.90

Goodreads rating: 4.38

$14.90

If you've ever felt like yoga was just about twisting your body into knots, Ian Whicher's exploration will be an eye-opener. This book delves deep into the Yoga Sutras, revealing a path not of retreat from life but an invitation to engage with it more fully, all while maintaining inner peace. It's a thought-provoking read for anyone looking to deepen their practice beyond the mat.
Islam - A Very Short Introduction
Malise Ruthven | Oxford University Press

Islam - A Very Short Introduction

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 3.27

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

Given the current global climate, understanding Islam from an informed perspective is crucial. Malise Ruthven's book offers a clear-cut introduction that addresses common questions and misconceptions. It's an essential read if you're keen on grasping the complexities of one of the world's major religions beyond the headlines, focusing on its history, divisions, and contemporary challenges.
The Bible: A Very Short Introduction
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John Riches | Oxford University Press

The Bible: A Very Short Introduction

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.26

$9.90

60% off est. retail
If you've ever wondered about the Bible's monumental role in shaping culture and thought, this book is a gem. John Riches concisely unpacks its complexity and significance, turning what could be an overwhelming exploration into an accessible journey. Perfect for those seeking to grasp the far-reaching effects of this sacred text without delving into theological depths.
The Sufi Path of Love: The Spiritual Teachings of Rumi
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Jalal ad-Din Muhammad ar-Rumi, William C. Chittick  | State University Of New York Press

The Sufi Path of Love: The Spiritual Teachings of Rumi

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$8.90

82% off est. retail
If you're interested in exploring the depths of spiritual love and Sufism, this book is your guide. Chittick's careful translation and arrangement of Rumi's poetic and prosaic works introduce you to the profound mystical insights of Islam in a way that's both understandable and deeply resonant. It's a text that opens doors to the heart, perfect for those seeking spiritual enrichment and a connection with the divine through literature.
Beyond Dogma: Rumi's Teachings on Friendship with God and Early Sufi Theories
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Jawid Mojaddedi | Oxford University Press

Beyond Dogma: Rumi's Teachings on Friendship with God and Early Sufi Theories

$34.90

Goodreads rating: 4.22

$34.90

67% off est. retail
If your soul's craving a deeper spiritual understanding, "Beyond Dogma" might feel like a breath of fresh air. Mojaddedi magnificently unveils Rumi's teachings on friendship with God, placing them in a rich historical context. This isn't just a book; it's a journey into the heart of Sufism, where you'll emerge more enlightened about the interconnectedness of love, faith, and the divine. It's ideal for those who seek to reconcile spirituality with historical perspectives.
The Difficulty of Being Good: On the Subtle Art of Dharma
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Gurcharan Das | Oxford University Press

The Difficulty of Being Good: On the Subtle Art of Dharma

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$8.90

72% off est. retail
If you've been grappling with the nuances of right and wrong in today's complex societal landscape, "The Difficulty of Being Good" by Gurcharan Das can offer you a fascinating perspective. Das weaves the ancient wisdom of the Mahabharata with contemporary issues, making age-old dilemmas of dharma feel incredibly relevant. It's a book that doesn't just recount epic tales but also challenges you to think deeply about your own moral choices. It could be the reflective companion you need as you navigate your own ethical path.
What I Believe
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Tariq Ramadan | Oxford University Press

What I Believe

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$8.90

If you're interested in a progressive Islamic perspective that's directly engaged with Western society, Tariq Ramadan's "What I Believe" might intrigue you. Ramadan has been a controversial figure, but his approach in this book attempts to bridge divides. It's a concise read that advocates for mutual understanding and pluralism, making it particularly relevant for those eager to explore the intersections of faith, identity, and citizenship in the modern world.
The Fundamental Wisdom of the Middle Way: Nagarjuna's Mulamadhyamakakarika
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Jay L. Garfield, Nāgārjuna  | Oxford University Press

The Fundamental Wisdom of the Middle Way: Nagarjuna's Mulamadhyamakakarika

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.34

$8.90

75% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the idea that our perception of reality might be more complex than it appears, then Nagarjuna's work will deeply resonate with you. This book offers an in-depth exploration of the Middle Way, which is a cornerstone of Mahayana Buddhism. By diving into this text, you'll gain an understanding of how Nagarjuna deconstructs notions of existence and non-existence to reveal a more nuanced understanding of being. It's a transformative read for anyone interested in Buddhist philosophy or the nature of reality itself.
An Introduction to the Philosophy of Religion
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Brian Davies | Oxford University Press

An Introduction to the Philosophy of Religion

$16.90

Goodreads rating: 3.73

$16.90

75% off est. retail
If you're grappling with the big questions surrounding the divine, like whether miracles are conceivable or what lies beyond this life, this book by Brian Davies could be your guiding light. With thorough revisions incorporating the latest philosophical debates, it's an accessible deep dive into religion that doesn't assume prior knowledge. Perfect for students and seekers alike, it helps you build a structured understanding of what faith really entails.
Buddhism - A Very Short Introduction
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Damien Keown | Oxford University Press

Buddhism - A Very Short Introduction

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.74

$8.90

64% off est. retail
If you've ever been intrigued by Buddhism but felt overwhelmed by the vast history and teachings, this book serves as an ideal starting point. Damien Keown presents Buddhist principles in bite-sized, digestible portions without diminishing their depth and significance. Whether you're looking for a new spiritual perspective or simply want to expand your philosophical horizons, you'll appreciate the way this book makes profound ideas approachable.
The New Cosmic Story: Inside Our Awakening Universe
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John F. Haught | Yale University Press

The New Cosmic Story: Inside Our Awakening Universe

$12.90 $5.90 54% off

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$12.90 $5.90 54% off

84% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the intersection of cosmic history and spiritual consciousness, "The New Cosmic Story" might stir your curiosity. John F. Haught invites you on an intellectual journey that weaves together the unfolding narrative of the cosmos with the emergent qualities of interior life and religious experience. It's a perspective that challenges the often secular narrative of the universe's history, adding depth to the cosmic tale.
The Mathnawí of Jalálu'ddín Rúmí, Edited from the Oldest Manuscripts Available, With Critical Notes, Translation, & Commentary. Volume VI Containing the Translation of the Fifth & Sixth Books - "E.J.W. Gibb Memorial" Series - Thryft
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Rumi (Jalal ad-Din Muhammad ar-Rumi) | Edinburgh University Press

The Mathnawí of Jalálu'ddín Rúmí, Edited from the Oldest Manuscripts Available, With Critical Notes, Translation, & Commentary. Volume VI Containing the Translation of the Fifth & Sixth Books - "E.J.W. Gibb Memorial" Series

$11.59 $10.90 6% off

Goodreads rating: 4.4

$11.59 $10.90 6% off

Whether you're a seasoned reader of mystical literature or just dipping your toes into the spiritual waters, Rumi's Mathnawi is a journey worth taking. Its rich allegories and profound insights into human nature and spirituality will offer you a pathway to reflection, potentially altering your perspective on the everyday. The critical edition ensures historical fidelity, offering a connection to both the past and to timeless wisdom.
The Mathnawí of Jalálu?ddín Rúmí Volume 4, English Text - Thryft
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Rumi (Jalal ad-Din Muhammad ar-Rumi), Reynold Alleyne Nicholson  | Edinburgh University Press

The Mathnawí of Jalálu?ddín Rúmí Volume 4, English Text

$29.82 $7.90 74% off

Goodreads rating: 4.37

$29.82 $7.90 74% off

83% off est. retail
If you're drawn to the mystical and spiritual depths of human experience, Rumi's Mathnawi will resonate with you. It's like a key unlocking profound insights through enchanting poetry. Perfect for seekers and lovers of timeless wisdom, this volume continues to inspire countless readers with its blend of rich emotional tapestry and spiritual transcendence.
The Soul in the Brain - The Cerebral Basis of Language, Art, and Belief - Thryft
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Michael R. Trimble | Johns Hopkins University Press

The Soul in the Brain - The Cerebral Basis of Language, Art, and Belief

$8.68 $7.90 9% off

Goodreads rating: 3.45

$8.68 $7.90 9% off

"The Soul In The Brain" is a fascinating read for anyone intrigued by where art, language, and belief intersect with neuroscience. It's particularly compelling if you've ever wondered about the scientific explanations for why we're moved by music, inspired by poetry, or connected to our spiritual beliefs. Dr. Trimble uses real patient experiences to delve into these profound questions, offering a rare glimpse at the nuanced relationship between brain function and the essence of human creativity and spirituality.
Flourishing - Why We Need Religion in a Globalized World - Thryft
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Miroslav Volf | Yale University Press

Flourishing - Why We Need Religion in a Globalized World

$8.68 $5.90 32% off

Goodreads rating: 3.99

$8.68 $5.90 32% off

77% off est. retail
If you're seeking to understand how your faith fits into our rapidly globalizing world, or you're just curious about the impact of religion on global society, "Flourishing" promises to enlighten you. Miroslav Volf offers a deeply personal take that doesn't just dissect the world's problems but provides an inspiring vision for uniting the drive for a good life with spiritual values. This book could be the bridge between your inner beliefs and the outer world's demands.
A Little History of Religion - Thryft
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Richard Holloway | Yale University Press

A Little History of Religion

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.2

$8.26

Richard Holloway's "A Little History of Religion" offers an expansive and respectful journey through the tapestry of belief systems that have shaped our world. It's a thoughtful choice for those who wish to understand the complexities and diversities of religious thought and practice across ages and cultures. Without favoring a particular viewpoint, it promotes understanding and tolerance—an enlightening read for both the faithful and skeptics alike.
Reverence - Renewing A Forgotten Virtue - Thryft
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Paul Woodruff | Oxford University Press

Reverence - Renewing A Forgotten Virtue

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

This book could be a good read for you because it helps you reconnect with the often-neglected virtue of reverence. Through thought-provoking insights and examples, Paul Woodruff invites you to explore how cultivating reverence can bring more joy, meaning, and respect into your relationships, work, and everyday experiences. By the end of this book, you will be inspired to foster a deeper sense of reverence for the world around you and find renewed appreciation for life's wonders.
Islam - Thryft
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John L. Esposito | Oxford University Press, Usa

Islam

$15.90 $3.90 75% off

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$15.90 $3.90 75% off

94% off est. retail
This updated version of The Straight Path includes a new Epilogue by John Esposito in which he addresses the impact 9/11 and its aftermath have had on both the Muslim and non-Muslim world, discussing Islam's relationship to democracy and modernity and focusing more sharply on theorigins and growth of extremism and terrorism in the name of Islam.This exceptionally successful survey text introduces the faith, belief, and practice of Islam from its earliest origins up to its contemporary resurgence. Esposito, an internationally renowned expert on Islam, traces the development of this dynamic faith and its impact on world history andpolitics, discussing the formation of Islamic belief and practice and chronicling the struggle of Muslims to define and adhere to their Islamic way of life. Lucidly written and expansive in scope, The Straight Path provides keen insight into one of the world's least understood religions andis ideally suited for use in courses on Islam, comparative religions, and Middle Eastern history and culture.
Muslim Cosmopolitanism : Southeast Asian Islam in Comparative Perspective - Thryft
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Khairudin Aljunied | Edinburgh University Press

Muslim Cosmopolitanism : Southeast Asian Islam in Comparative Perspective

$34.61

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$34.61

This book would be a great read for individuals interested in the intersection of religion and culture in Southeast Asia. The author provides a detailed examination of the historical context and case studies from Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, showcasing how Muslim individuals and societies have fostered mutual respect and tolerance between Muslims and non-Muslims. By highlighting the rise of the network society in the region up until the early 21st century, the book offers readers a unique perspective on the practices, outlook, and visions of Muslim cosmopolitanism in the region.
Oupsac : In - Thryft
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Anonymous | Oxford University Press

Oupsac : In

$12.25

Goodreads rating: 4.58

$12.25

Oupsac: In could be a valuable read for devoted Catholics who want to expand their understanding of their faith. With supplementary aids such as maps, charts and line drawings, it is perfect for those wishing to deepen their knowledge of the Catholic faith, adding to a comprehensive understanding of the Bible. The Presentation and Family Record Section, prayers and devotions of the Catholic faith and Sunday and weekday lectionary readings are additional advantages of this edition. Overall, this Bible would make for an ideal resource for devout Catholics seeking to enrich their faith.
Radical Reform : Islamic Ethics and Liberation - Thryft
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Tariq Ramadan | Oxford University Press

Radical Reform : Islamic Ethics and Liberation

$12.09 $8.46 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$12.09 $8.46 30% off

81% off est. retail
This book is an essential read for Muslims who want to reconcile Islamic ethics with modernity. Tariq Ramadan offers a radical new concept of ijtihad that draws on context and human sciences. He then applies this methodology to controversial issues in medical ethics, education, economics, marriage and divorce, culture and creativity. Ramadan's proposals and conclusions are sure to provoke discussion and controversy, but they offer important insights for Muslims and non-Muslims alike seeking to understand how Islam can adapt to the modern world.
Challenging Cosmopolitanism : Coercion, Mobility and Displacement in Islamic Asia - Thryft
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R. Michael Feener, Joshua Gedacht  | Edinburgh University Press

Challenging Cosmopolitanism : Coercion, Mobility and Displacement in Islamic Asia

$28.17 $19.72 30% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$28.17 $19.72 30% off

This book provides a critical perspective on Islamic cosmopolitanism, exploring its darker shades of power, violence, and economic control. Through new historical and ethnographic research, it contextualizes contemporary issues such as the global refugee crisis in relation to longer histories of Muslim mobility and coercion. A must-read for those interested in a nuanced understanding of Islamic cosmopolitanism.
The Tibetan Book of the Dead : Or the After-Death Experiences on the Bardo Plane, according to Lama Kazi Dawa-Samdup's English Rendering - Thryft
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Karma Lingpa, Padmasambhava, W.Y. Evans-Wentz  | Oxford University Press

The Tibetan Book of the Dead : Or the After-Death Experiences on the Bardo Plane, according to Lama Kazi Dawa-Samdup's English Rendering

$7.69 $5.38 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$7.69 $5.38 30% off

The book offers a unique insight into the science of death and dying, as well as the belief in life after death and rebirth. It serves as a guide not only for the dead but also for the living, helping readers understand and prepare themselves for the transition of death. The book has a rich history of being discovered and rediscovered by readers of various backgrounds, from pre-war theosophists to contemporary hospice workers. The new foreword and afterword, as well as the suggested further reading list, provide readers with an even deeper understanding of this sacred text's significance and influence.
Confessions
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Henry Chadwick, Augustine of Hippo  | Oxford University Press

Confessions

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.96

$8.90

If you're drawn to the intersection of philosophy, religion, and introspection, "Confessions" by Augustine may resonate deeply with you. Augustine's candid account of his tumultuous journey to Christian faith reveals the vulnerabilities and philosophical curiosities that define human experience. Henry Chadwick's clear, modern translation makes this classic spiritual autobiography accessible, inviting you to explore Augustine's transformative personal narrative alongside helpful explanatory notes that enrich understanding.
Zen and Japanese Culture - Thryft
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D.T. Suzuki | Princeton University Press

Zen and Japanese Culture

$10.84

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$10.84

Zen and Japanese Culture is one of the twentieth century's leading works on Zen, and a valuable source for those wishing to understand its concepts in the context of Japanese life and art. In simple, often poetic, language, Daisetz Suzuki describes his conception of Zen and its historical evolution. He connects Zen to the philosophy of the samurai, and subtly portrays the relationship between Zen and swordsmanship, haiku, tea ceremonies, and the Japanese love of nature. Suzuki's contemplative work is enhanced by anecdotes, poetry, and illustrations showing silk screens, calligraphy, and examples of architecture.Since its original publication in 1938, this important work has played a major role in shaping conceptions of Zen's influence on Japanese traditional arts. Richard Jaffe's introduction acquaints a new generation of readers with Suzuki's life and career in both Japan and America. Jaffe discusses how Zen and Japanese Culture was received upon its first publication and analyzes the book in light of contemporary criticism, especially by scholars of Japanese Buddhism.
Contesting the Saudi State : Islamic Voices from a New Generation - Thryft
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Madawi Al-Rasheed | Cambridge University Press

Contesting the Saudi State : Islamic Voices from a New Generation

$10.22

Goodreads rating: 3.79

$10.22

The terms Wahhabi or Salafi are seen as interchangeable and frequently misunderstood by outsiders. However, as Madawi al-Rasheed explains in a fascinating exploration of Saudi Arabia in the twenty-first century, even Saudis do not agree on their meaning. Under the influence of mass education, printing, new communication technology, and global media, they are forming their own conclusions and debating religion and politics in traditional and novel venues, often violating official taboos and the conservative values of the Saudi society. Drawing on classical religious sources, contemporary readings and interviews, Al-Rasheed presents an ethnography of consent and contest, exploring the fluidity of the boundaries between the religious and political. Bridging the gap between text and context, the author also examines how states and citizens manipulate religious discourse for purely political ends, and how this manipulation generates unpredictable reactions whose control escapes those who initiated them.
The New Oxford Annotated Bible with Apocrypha : New Revised Standard Version - Thryft
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Marc Z. Brettler, Michael D. Coogan, Pheme Perkins  | Oxford University Press

The New Oxford Annotated Bible with Apocrypha : New Revised Standard Version

$17.79

Goodreads rating: 4.34

$17.79

Countless students, professors & general readers alike have relied upon The New Oxford Annotated Bible with the Apocrypha for essential scholarship & guidance to the world of the Bible. Now the Augmented 3rd Edition adds to the established reputation of this premier academic resource. A wealth of new maps, charts & diagrams further clarify information found in the scripture pages. In addition, section introductions have been expanded & the book introductions have been made more uniform in order to enhance their utility. Of course, the Augmented 3rd Edition retains the features prized by students, including single column annotations at the foot of the pages, in-text background essays, charts & maps, a page number-keyed index of all the study materials in the volume & Oxford's renowned Bible maps. This timely edition maintains & extends the excellence the Annotated's users have come to expect, bringing still more insights, information & approaches to bear upon the understanding of the biblical texts.
A Quiet Revolution : The Veil's Resurgence, from the Middle East to America - Thryft
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Leila Ahmed | Yale University Press

A Quiet Revolution : The Veil's Resurgence, from the Middle East to America

$18.98

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$18.98

In Cairo in the 1940s, Leila Ahmed was raised by a generation of women who never dressed in the veils and headscarves their mothers and grandmothers had worn. To them, these coverings seemed irrelevant to both modern life and Islamic piety. Today, however, the majority of Muslim women throughout the Islamic world again wear the veil. Why, Ahmed asks, did this change take root so swiftly, and what does this shift mean for women, Islam, and the West? When she began her study, Ahmed assumed that the veil's return indicated a backward step for Muslim women worldwide. What she discovered, however, in the stories of British colonial officials, young Muslim feminists, Arab nationalists, pious Islamic daughters, American Muslim immigrants, violent jihadists, and peaceful Islamic activists, confounded her expectations. Ahmed observed that Islamism, with its commitments to activism in the service of the poor and in pursuit of social justice, is the strain of Islam most easily and naturally merging with western democracies' own tradition of activism in the cause of justice and social change. It is often Islamists, even more than secular Muslims, who are at the forefront of such contemporary activist struggles as civil rights and women's rights. Ahmed's surprising conclusions represent a near reversal of her thinking on this topic. Richly insightful, intricately drawn, and passionately argued, this absorbing story of the veil's resurgence, from Egypt through Saudi Arabia and into the West, suggests a dramatically new portrait of contemporary Islam.
The Koran: A Very Short Introduction - Thryft
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Michael A. Cook | Oxford University Press

The Koran: A Very Short Introduction

$5.29

Goodreads rating: 3.38

$5.29

The Koran has constituted a remarkably resilient core of identity and continuity for a religious tradition that is now in its fifteenth century. In this Very Short Introduction, Michael Cook provides a lucid and direct account of the significance of the Koran both in the modern world and in that of traditional Islam. He gives vivid accounts of its role in Muslim civilization, illustrates the diversity of interpretations championed by traditional and modern commentators, discusses the processes by which the book took shape, and compares it to other scriptures and classics of the historic cultures of Eurasia.About the Combining authority with wit, accessibility, and style, Very Short Introductions offer an introduction to some of life's most interesting topics. Written by experts for the newcomer, they demonstrate the finest contemporary thinking about the central problems and issues in hundreds of key topics, from philosophy to Freud, quantum theory to Islam.
The Bodhicaryavatara - Thryft
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Paul Williams, Śāntideva, Kate Crosby  | Oxford University Press

The Bodhicaryavatara

$7.12

Goodreads rating: 4.25

$7.12

Written in India in the early 8th century AD, Śāntideva's Bodhicaryāvatāra addresses the profound desire to become a Buddha and rescue all beings from suffering. The person who acts upon such a desire is a Bodhisattva. Śāntideva not only makes plain what the Bodhisattva must do and become, he also invokes the powerful feelings of aspiration that underlie such a commitment, employing language which has inspired Buddists ever since it first appeared. Indeed, his book has long been regarded as one of the most popular accounts of the Buddhist's spiritual path. Important as a manual of training among Mahayana Buddhists, especially in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, this text continues to be used as the basis for teaching by modern Buddhist teachers. This new translation from the original language provides detailed annotations explaining allusions and technical references. Also, the Introduction both serve to locate Śāntideva's work in its proper context, and for the first time explain its structure. About the Series: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the broadest spectrum of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, voluminous notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.