The six paramitas-generosity, ethical discipline, patience, heroic effort, concentration, and wisdom-are among the core teachings of Buddhism across all its schools. For newcomers and seasoned practitioners alike, they are foundational practices to enter and realize the mind of Buddha. In this sincere and powerful book, Zen teacher Reb Anderson offers teachings and practice stories that elucidate and open up each paramita. Taken together, the six "perfections" form an integrated and complete path--the path of the heroic bodhisattva who vows to practice ceaselessly for the welfare and liberation of all beings.

Entering the Mind of Buddha: Zen and the Six Heroic Practices of Bodhisattvas,Tenshin Reb Anderson, Shambhala Publications, Paperback, 152 pp, $18.95

Reb Anderson was ordained as a Zen priest at the San Francisco Zen Center by Shunryu Suzuki Roshi in 1970. Since then, Reb has continued to practice at the San Francisco Zen Center, where he served as abbot from 1986 to 1995 and is now a senior dharma teacher. His previous books are Being Upright: Zen Meditation and the Bodhisattva Precepts, Warm Smiles from Cold Mountains: Dharma Talks on Zen Meditation, and The Third Turning of the Wheel: Wisdom of the Samdhinirmocana Sutra.

	Acknowledgments	ix
	Introduction
	The Invitation	1
	1. The First Heroic Practice
	The Perfection of Giving: A Generous Heart	15
	2. The Second Heroic Practice
	The Perfection of Ethics: A Virtuous Life	31
	3. The Third Heroic Practice
	The Perfection of Patience: Radiant Presence	53
	4. The Fourth Heroic Practice
	The Perfection of Enthusiasm: Joyful Effort	71
	5. The Fifth Heroic Practice
	The Perfection of Concentration: The Dharma Gate of Repose and Bliss	83
	6. The Sixth Heroic Practice
	The Perfection of Wisdom: Body and Mind dropped Off	99
	Epilogue
	The Appropriate Response of a Wind Bell	119
	Notes	121
	Index	131
	About the Author	140