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7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Buy this book!, July 10, 2006
The Whole Heart of Zen, by Reverend Venerable John Bright-Fey, is a remarkable book. Finally I find out what I've always wanted to know about Zen Buddhism. In only 296 pages, the author immerses us into the world of Zen. We learn about the origins of Buddhism, its migration from India to China, its main branches and their characteristics, and the reforms of Buddhism in China initiated by Ta-Mo. The historical contexts are not the main theme, however. Bright-Fey sets out to give to the reader the essence of Zen as articulated by Ta-Mo, its founder. Ta-Mo's sermons are provided in a series of "cantos," and the English translations seem to be economical and direct. However, the sermons would clearly require some explanation for those of us with little knowledge of their context and little access to their imagery and poetic devices. And this is where Bright-Fey makes a uniquely remarkable contribution to the understanding of Zen in our times, by providing commentary based on the oral traditions of which he is the sole living recipient.
For each canto, Bright-Fey provides four kinds of comments, under the headings of Mind, Body, Hand, and Heart. "Mind" tells us how a Zen practitioner thinks, "Body" describes day to day living, "Hand" gives specific contemplative instructions, and "Heart" condenses everything into a statement of core belief. The commentary covers a huge territory in very few words, offering insights into Zen cultivation that are profound, unique, and sometimes surprising. It is hard to single out specific instances for special attention, but the sections that deal with the ideas of oneness with all things, with compassion, and with non-violence are notable.
Everything about The Whole Heart of Zen invites the reader into a contemplative experience. While other books on Buddhism that I know seem complicated, arcane, and full of lists and admonitions, here the message comes through simply and precisely. At the same time, the mystical power of the message seems not at all de-mystified, but rather it is concentrated and intensified. The writing style itself is so economical and so direct that one wants to linger over every sentence and paragraph. The paper, layout, typeface, use of red, and elegantly rendered Chinese calligraphy are welcoming to the eyes. The front and back covers are firm yet soft, like a leather bound prayer book that one will hold every day for years and years. There is even a bound-in ribbon bookmark. The low price for this book seems almost like a mistake.
For the reader who approaches Zen from a traditional Christian context, as I have, the Zen of Ta-Mo presented here serves to highlight and breathe new life into my own tradition. Phrase such as "you must be born again," or "pray without ceasing" take on fresh meaning and urgency. Indeed, Bright-Fey presents Ta-Mo's message as welcoming to all, from whatever tradition. All are invited, indeed urged, to hear the message. Here is the final paragraph of the book:
"The promise of Zen is universal and available to everyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, education, or religion. The philosophy of Ta-Mo is one of radical inclusion. It is nonjudgmental and completely adaptable to any life that embraces it. All that one must do is, well... do it. The Buddha's message is a simple one: Wake up! The message of Ta-Mo is likewise a simple one: Look to yourself. That is where you will find the Buddha. Those combined messages form the heart of the Zen life."
Thomas Gibbs
Professor of Music
Birmingham-Southern College
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7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Living Zen!, July 2, 2006
In this magnificent work you will be fully exposed to the teachings of Ta-Mo (founder of Zen / Ch'an) through an authentic lineage holder who received Ta-Mo's oral transmissions directly via an unbroken line of Buddhist Masters. Make no mistake this is not just a scholarly translation for you to read and ponder. It is a transmission, translation and accessible "Zen manual" for your body, mind and spirit. John Bright-Fey's book enables you to absorb and experience the essence of Zen teachings and put them into practice in your daily life as well as your own spiritual practices. The only thing better would be to study directly with the author face to face!
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1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Wow!, December 11, 2006
Rev. Bright Fey has done it again! This, as the series title says, really does get at the heart of the Sermons that came from the man who started Chan or Zen Buddhism. It is has really effected me in a positive way. My dreams have been more interesting and my meditation practice feels as if it has started to deepen with the revelations inside this book. If you are interested at all in the subject of Zen Buddhism this is where to start. Ta Mo's Sermons are filled with insights, and deserve to be on the shelf with all of your other sacred texts.
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