Customer Reviews

Zen Buddhism and Hasidism

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A fascinating book from a wonderful and fascinating man. Jacob Teshima is a Japanese Christian born in Korea, who became a star disciple of the late and great Abraham Joshua Heschel. His grasp of Hasidism is phenomenal and he effectively proves that despite external similarities, there are great differences in depth between Hassidism and Zen Buddhism. He has the rare advantage of approaching Hasidism by learning the original texts rather then second hand sources. It is no wonder that the influence of Dr. Heschel is felt throughout this book. An invaluable guide to serious scholars.

It is not easy for an academic study, especially for one on such a specialized topic which few people know about, to be entertaining at the same time, and easy-to-read for the average cultured person. Yet, this study does manage to do this. Even for those of us who have only basic knowledge of Hasidism, Zen Buddhism and their histories, this book provides a fascinating journey into these two wonderful religions, on their similarities and differences. Truly a wonderful study and a wonderful book to read.