Wisdom Teachings of the Mahayana

We need to use the knowledge we have well to think critically about Mahayana Buddhist teachings and apply them to day-to-day life, according to Sangharakshita. The four main works in this volume offer lessons on how to do this.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 832 pages
Publication date: 16 August 2023
Publisher: Windhorse Publications

The question of how much knowledge of the Dharma we need is a fascinating one, and Sangharakshita's answer may surprise some. While it may seem that we need to know a vast amount of information about the teachings, Sangharakshita suggests that we actually need to use the knowledge we do have effectively. This is the teaching of the four main works in this volume, which were based on seminars conducted in 1976 and 1978.

The Way to Wisdom offers a lesson in how to think critically about Mahayana Buddhist teachings and how to apply them to our day-to-day lives. It focuses on the five spiritual faculties and provides insights into how to cultivate them. Living Ethically and Living Wisely, on the other hand, explores Nagarjuna's Precious Garland, a text that offers practical advice on living an ethical and wise life. Know Your Mind takes a deeper dive into a Tibetan Abhidharma text, exploring the nature of the mind and how to cultivate mindfulness and meditation.

These works offer valuable lessons that can help us navigate the challenges of life and cultivate a deeper understanding of the Dharma. By using the knowledge we have effectively, we can apply these teachings to our lives and live more ethically and wisely. However, it is important to note that the knowledge of the Dharma is not an end in itself. It is a means to an end, and the ultimate goal is to achieve enlightenment or nirvana.

In conclusion, while the question of how much knowledge of the Dharma we need may seem complex, Sangharakshita's teaching suggests that we actually need to use the knowledge we do have effectively. The four main works in this volume provide valuable insights into how to think critically about Mahayana Buddhist teachings and how to apply them to our day-to-day lives. By using these teachings, we can cultivate a deeper understanding of the Dharma and work towards achieving enlightenment or nirvana.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781915342003