Good Heart, The

There are prerequisite statements to define my rating. This is not a dogmatic, unapologetic, televangelist bible belt welcomed book, but frankly, I don't believe that interpretation of Jesus is accurate anyway. The long and the short of it is that there are incredibly valuable things that came out of Jesus' mouth, regardless of your belief system or lack thereof. 99% of the time it's not what Jesus said that makes people angry, but the selfish spin people put on it to suit their ends.This is a good read for secular and religious scholars alike. It considers the practical application of what Jesus said, and offers it the respect they deserve as wise and thoughtful expressions right living, but doesn't blindly accept them at face value without thought.Most pleasing to me personally is seeing the parallels that run between all the people striving to be better people, and how at a cetrain threshold so many come to the same conclusion, despite taking different paths. All roads lead to Rome, I suppose?Absolutely worth reading if the topic is already interesting to you.

Diversity and HarmonyRobert G. Buice, Ph.D.My Review for Goodreads:Dalai Lama XIV, Robert Kiely, Thupten Jinpa, Dom Laurence Freeman, The Good Heart: A Buddhist Perspective on the Teachings of Jesus, Wisdom Publications, Somerville, MA (1998). 224pages [Kindle]History did not permit the early followers of Jesus (1st century CE) to mingle with the early followers of the Buddha (5th century BCE), but the Dalai Lama XIV of Tibet sees as similarities in the teachings of the two. The Kingdom of God (Mark 4:26-34), a refuge for believers, may be related to Buddhists’ refuge in the Three Jewels — the Buddha, Dharma (teachings), and Sangha (community), although Buddhists, emphasize a sense of personal responsibility rather than a dependence on a transcendent being. The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5: 1-10) resembles the Buddhist concept of “karma”: those who do good will be rewarded with good. The Transfiguration (Luke 9:28-36) - The vision of the two prophets Moses and Elijah relates to mystical incidents in Buddhist literature of individuals coming face to face with certain historical figures. The Resurrection (John 20: 10– 18), in a spiritual sense, is similar to the Buddha’s teachings, which lived on after his death.In “The Good Heart: A Buddhist Perspective on the Teachings of Jesus”, the authors review the proceedings of the 1994 John Main Seminar. The Dalai Lama not only gave his perspective on passages from each of the four Christian canonical gospels, he exemplified the value of dialogue between the two faiths. He believes that, “the proof and authentication of all religion is the realization of a good heart, a human being’s innate qualities of compassion and tolerance, … the same standard can be applied to dialogue, which has today become an important work and activity of all religions”. The 1994 John Main Seminar was just such a dialogue, as the Dalai Lama spoke to a panel comprised primarily of Christian representatives.The Dalai Lama feels that there are similarities between Buddhism and Christianity in the areas of ethics and spiritual practice, such as the practices of compassion, love, meditation, and the enhancement of tolerance. However, when it comes to a philosophical or metaphysical dialogue he feels that “we must part company”. In the Buddhist tradition, things happen because of “interactions between causes and conditions”.The Dalai Lama does not support the concept of a universal religion, but respects each individual religious tradition. Nor does he advise anyone to change his/her religion, but rather suggests that everyone rediscover the “deeper meaning and power” of his/her own religious tradition.For those interested in similarities, differences, and potential relationships between Christianity and Buddhism “The Good Heart” is a highly informative read.NotesHe says, in the areas of “religious intolerance and persecution”, Buddhism exceeds Christianity”. He quotes a Tibetan expression, “Someone whose faith is not grounded in reason is like a stream of water that can be led anywhere”. Does this resemble the Wesleyan Quadrilateral – Scripture, Tradition, Experience, all tempered by Reason? He points out that, “... if someone tries to impose certain religious beliefs onto a person whose inclination is clearly opposed to it, then this action will not be beneficial, it will be harmful” …”… the Buddhist attitude about the issue of spreading its message is this: unless someone approaches a teacher and requests specific teachings, it is not right for a teacher to impose his or her views and doctrines onto another person.”… “…it is crucial to judge the suitability of what you are teaching to a person’s mental dispositions and spiritual inclinations”. Buddhists view salvation as a state of perfection of the mind, rather than an improved external environment.”.

Book was in like new conditions...even the dust cover was pristine and no wear.....beautiful book...quick delivery

Most excellent work from a Christian monk to bridge inter connectedness of religious beliefs. Expanding on our oneness as sentient beings and bringing us together through meaningful dialogue. One can not help but come to understand with more clarity and altruistic view of our need to bring more compassion into our world.

The christian-buddhist dialogue,which has been going on for quite awhile unnoticed in the west{see the writings of Hugo-Enimoya Lasalle, William Johnston and dom Bede Griffiths}until,it appears, Thomas Merton's epochal meeting with HH dalai Lama in 1968 in Dharmasala,bears fruition in this volume. HH dalai lama comments on various New Testamnet readings, with appropriate help form Laurence freeman. Since these comments are extemporaneous, they have a vitality that would be muted in a more scholarly setting.{these meditations were done in England under the auspices of the World community of Christian Meditation}Though listening to the dalia lama on the Sermon on the mount is quite intetesting, then relating it to personal expierence and buddhist scripture, I found nothing unique here. Perhaps this meeting was best expierenced LIVE,or at least on tape.{literal transcripts often are dry] Most of HH Dalai Lamas writings I have read have been ,LIGHTER then this,both in weight and luminosity. Still, having the Dalai Lama comment on christian scripture, and willing to do so without notes and much preparation,speaks volumes for the man. Few leaders,never mind acknowledged spiritual authorities would hazzard into this territory. What Humility. Of common interest is THE GETHSEMANI ENCOUNTER,{which HH Dalai Lama participated} held at Thomas Merton's abbey in Kentucky.

Enjoyed this book very much. Although his answers got a little long winded, it was an informative read.

One of my life heroes! So admire this fellow human being, Wonderful book. Thanks!

If you ever had a doubt about the Dalai Lama's generous spirit, sharp mind and thorough knowledge of not only Buddhism but religious ideas in general, here is proof - in these pages.

Good condition. Dispatch was a bit slow for international shipping but it is acceptable. Overall is Good👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

Another worthwhile read generated in conjunction with the Dalai Lama , but with a twist. This is a record of a meeting of Christian scholars and the Dalai Lama in 1994. It is in no way an attempt to convert Christians to Buddhism , but is rather a very respectful dialogue of both to interact , compare and contrast. The sum is greater than the parts. Includes a summery of the Christian Context by Father Lawrence Freeman with a glossary of Christian terms , and the Buddhist Context by Thupten Jinpa ( Dalai Lamas' translator ) with a glossary of Buddhist terms. Easy to read , it will warm your good heart.

An excellent analysis by HH Dalai Lama, of the teachings of Jesus Christ! This is in keeping with the Buddhist philosophy of tolerance to the other beliefs and compassion to fellow human beings! A must read for all those who practice religious tolerance and compassion!

This is an excellent book with great educational content. The print is very small making it difficult for seniors to read.

A very interesting and surprising read. I am glad I read it, and I thoroughly recommend it. The Dalai Lama is a very interesting character.