This treasury of essential Buddhist writings draws from the most popular Indian, Tibetan, Chinese, and Japanese sources. Some of the earliest recorded sayings of the Buddha on the practice of freedom, passages from later Indian scriptures on the perfection of wisdom, verses from Tibetan masters on the enlightened mind, and songs in praise of meditation by Zen teachers are among the selections. The book also includes traditional instruction on how to practice sitting meditation, cultivate calm awareness, and live with compassion. Jack Kornfield, one of the most respected American Buddhist teachers, has compiled these teachings to impart the essence and inspiration of Buddhism to readers of all spiritual traditions.

Teachings of the Buddha, Jack Kornfield, Shambhala Publications, 2159 pages, $7.99

Jack Kornfield trained as a Buddhist monk in the monasteries of Thailand, India, and Burma. He is a founding teacher of the Insight Meditation Society and Spirit Rock Center, and has taught meditation internationally since 1974. His other books include Seeking the Heart of Wisdom:; Living Dharma; After the Ecstasy, the Laundry; and The Art of Forgiveness, Lovingkindness, and Peae.