Buddhism of the Heart: Reflections on Shin Buddhism and Inner Togetherness [Paperback]

Jeff Wilson (Author), Taitetsu Unno (Foreword)

Book Description

Publication Date: April 28, 2009

Despite its 800-year history and standing as one of the most popular branches of Buddhism in the world, Shin Buddhism has been passed on primarily through an oral tradition, leaving few books written about it. Buddhism of the Heart addresses that gap. Using anecdote, reflection, humor, and more, this book invites readers into the world of Shin stories and metaphors, passed down, elaborated, and re-energized generation after generation. The truth of Shin Buddhism’s sacred storytelling, explains author Jeff Wilson, lies in the degree to which it points the hearer on toward deeper humility, awakening, and thankfulness. He shows how the tradition moves us beyond the petty ego as we come closer to the “entrusting heart,” the heart that is rooted in boundless gratitude and considerate awareness of others. A major new voice in Western Buddhism, Wilson evokes the warmth of Robert Fulghum and the nonjudgmental spiritual struggling of Anne Lamott in this accessible, affirming work for the modern seeker.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Jeff Wilson is an assistant professor of religious studies and East Asian studies, specializing in Buddhist traditions, both Asian and North American. He has previously publishedThe Buddhist Guide to New YorkandMourning the Unborn Dead; A Buddhist Ritual Comes to Americaand is a contributing editor for the Buddhist magazineTricycle. He grew up in New England and currently lives with his family in Canada --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

Product Details

• Paperback: 176 pages
• Publisher: Wisdom Publications (April 28, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0861715837
• ISBN-13: 978-0861715831
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 5.9 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 4.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #325,722 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Lives up to it's title, August 18, 2009

By 

M. Spinella (Atlantic County, NJ) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Buddhism of the Heart: Reflections on Shin Buddhism and Inner Togetherness (Paperback)

I have to admit that Pure Land is one of Buddhism the schools of Buddhism that I have been least interested in. I tend toward the traditions that emphasize meditation more, like Theravada, Zen, and Tibetan schools. The devotional aspect of Pure Land didn't really appeal to me, and what little I read about it did not catch my interest. That being said, I was pleasantly surprised how much I loved reading Jeff Wilson's book. On one hand, it is a very warm and personal book. Wilson illustrates points about Buddhism using his own life experiences, but without ever becoming sappy or sentimental. Instead he comes across as full of sincerity and compassion. It's very articulate and accessible, but never condescending or simplistic. Aside from that, this book made some of the principles of Shin (Japanese Pure Land) Buddhism more comprehensible to me. My interests are still primarily in the above-mentioned traditions, but I have a new found appreciation for Shin. If you like Shin Buddhism, then I recommend this book. If you're not interested in it, then I recommend it all the more.

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Blessing of A Book, May 22, 2009

By 

George I. Greene (Chappaqua, New York) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Buddhism of the Heart: Reflections on Shin Buddhism and Inner Togetherness (Paperback)

Jeff Wilson's Buddhism of the Heart is a blessing of a book. I have been interested in Shin Buddhism since I have become acquainted with the writings of David Reynolds and Greg Krech. Naikan finds its roots in this Japanese form of Buddhism. Through personal anecdotes, Jeff Wilson offers living examples of what it means to be a Shin Buddhist, the deep acceptance and gratitude for existence and the support of every living being. One participates in his journey and we are all better people for it. Namu Amida Butsu.

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent Book, June 16, 2009

By 

Thomas De Mann (Las Vegas, NV) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Buddhism of the Heart: Reflections on Shin Buddhism and Inner Togetherness (Paperback)

This book is very readable and enjoyable. Jeff keeps it simple and avoids any heavy doctrine. I am a Pure Land Buddhist and this book is humorous and very refreshing. More books of this nature need to be written more often. I am sure that I will reread this book regularly.