Customer Reviews

The Three Pillars of Zen: Teaching, Practice, and Enlightenment

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This unarguably authoritative book is absolutely
convincing in its easily readable exposition of Zen BR> Buddhism, it's methods and goals. Practices of Japanese
Zen masters, both modern and historic,
are set forth as they were actually spoken to Zen classes
in Japanese temples. It is easily the best book I have read on meditation generally or Zen specifically

I have read the "Three pillars of Zen" on a number of occasions including the anniversary edition. On each occasion I have found it to be more and more informative and revealing of ones own Zen practice. It is an excellent beginners book into the world of formal and not so formal Zen as well as for anybody who has an interest in "what is Zen anyways?". This book not only gives insight into the question "Zen?", but, also answers the how and why's.

I first read Roshi Philip Kapleau book on the summer of 1980. I feel it is still one of the most informative books wriiten on Zen Buddhism. I am sure it must be considered a classic by now. I find myself pulling this book off my shelf every few years and re-reading it. I feel that it is one of the few books written that introduce westerner's to the journey along the road of zen.