Pure Heart, Enlightened Mind: The Life and Letters of an Irish Zen Saint [Paperback]

Maura O'Halloran (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: April 17, 2007

At age 24, Maura O’Halloran traveled to Japan, where she began studying Zen, first in Tokyo and later in the remote northern countryside. Her journey into the depths of her heart and mind is portrayed in this memoir. Journal entries and letters home recounting her quest to become a Zen master reveal Maura’s humor, compassion, wisdom, and above all, her endless commitment to awakening. Insightful and absorbing, Pure Heart, Enlightened Mind remains one of the most beloved dharma books ever published. Maura O'Halloran and her book have inspired popular songs, artists, and countless readers. This new edition will be a must-have for previous fans and is sure to find thousands of new ones.

Product Details

• Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: Wisdom Publications; Expanded Wisdom Ed edition (April 17, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0861712838
• ISBN-13: 978-0861712830
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 5.8 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #494,273 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

7 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Interesting, enlightening, June 20, 2008

By 

BPTL "Barbara" (Wayne, Maine USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Pure Heart, Enlightened Mind: The Life and Letters of an Irish Zen Saint (Paperback)

Maura O'Halloran was a dear friend from childhood. We always knew she was special and different. Her journal entries, compiled and edited by her family, allowed a glimpse into a life of adventure, personal development, austerity, reflection, and achievement. Her story is presented in a chronological diary format, easy to read, and truly inspirational. Her writings reveal that she was indeed special, and her life a gift to all of who shared a moment in time with her.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The BEST!!!, June 5, 2009

By 

Christina - See all my reviews

This review is from: Pure Heart, Enlightened Mind: The Life and Letters of an Irish Zen Saint (Paperback)

This is my first review on anything... But, I have been reading & re-reading this story for the last 5 years or so and it is my absolute favorite. More people should know about Maura.
Her story is so personal, so extraordinary and also so simple. Just reading her experiences gives me that second wind of faith and inspiration that says this life is truly possible and great accomplishments can from us "normal" girls.
Everytime I read this book, I cry. Everytime.

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Pure Joy, November 16, 2010

By 

Donald (COLORADO SPRINGS, Colombia) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Pure Heart, Enlightened Mind: The Life and Letters of an Irish Zen Saint (Paperback)

It is profoundly rare that I take the time to write or speak on any book....but know deeply, this book is special. As a Catholic, who is also experienced in Zen Buddhism, this book is a rare gift to both religions.

Pure Heart, Enlightened Mind is the story of Maura O'Halloran a profoundly intelligent young women who was raised Catholic and became a saint within the Zen Buddhist tradition. This is the story of her adventure and of her enlightenment. While the concepts may be difficult for non-Buddhists to understand, please do not let this deter you. Maura story is enchanting and deeply insightful into true spirituality ...the truth of the beauty of this life....that is so often so difficult to see.