The Essential Wisdom Library Series

A modern guide to the teachings of Buddhism Buddhism: An Introduction to the Buddha’s Life, Teachings, and Practices is an indispensable guide to a 2,600-year-old wisdom tradition that has transformed the lives of millions across centuries and around the world. Readers will learn how Siddhartha Gautama became the Buddha, one of the most influential spiritual leaders of all time, and discover how they too can follow his revolutionary methods to attain happiness and inner freedom. Along with accessible overviews of central teachings—the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, karma, core virtues like kindness and compassion, and more—Buddhism covers such basics as: - the three main Buddhist traditions—Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana—historically and their relevance today - the role of meditation and mindfulness in Buddhist practice - step-by-step instruction in key Buddhist practices Writing in an engaging, approachable style, author Joan Duncan Oliver outlines the fundamentals of Buddhism for every reader, revealing its timeless truths and their relevance for finding peace in uncertain times. A practitioner of Buddhist meditation for forty years, Oliver has written extensively on Buddhist wisdom and its application to daily life. Her practical approach makes Buddhism an essential modern guidebook to an ancient tradition.

This concise guide offers a modern interpretation of one of ancient mystical philosophy's greatest treasures. It condenses Hermetic doctrine into seven compelling principles that can be successfully applied to everyday life.

The Bhagavad Gita: The Song of God Retold in Simplified English is the latest title in the Essential Wisdom Library. This unique edition of the timeless epic is designed to be accessible for readers without any prior experience of Hinduism. Not simply a translation of the original, Viljoen has simplified and restated the Gita’s complex ideas, so that a first-time reader can fully appreciate the scope and beauty of this magnificent Indian classic. Written in concise, modern language the retelling vividly captures the power and depth of the original work. Part of the Mahabharata, the Gita is a dialogue between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna. Its verses contain some of the key ideas of Hindu philosophy—Dharma, Moksha, and various yogic practices. Originally written well over a thousand years ago, the Gita has proven to be a timeless source of wisdom, inspiring philosophers and revolutionaries alike in the millennia since it was written. In addition to the retelling of the text, this edition includes a character list, a glossary of important terms, and chapters exploring the back-story from the Mahabharata and the impact and meaning of the Bhagavad Gita itself. The Bhagavad Gita is an approachable way for today’s readers to engage with one of history's richest spiritual epics.

An introduction to St. Francis's life and profound teachings of faith, this work presents one of the most venerated Christian figures known for his deep love of nature and commitment to simplicity. It offers a universal overview of Francis's life, key teachings, and the spiritual practices that enriched his faith and those who follow his legacy. Author Jon M. Sweeney, a popular interpreter of Francis, portrays him as a man of his time whose wisdom transcends eras. The book begins with a timeline of the saint's life and includes teachings that highlight his unique impact. His words resonate across diverse situations, offering advice for those in power, insights on gratitude, and guidance through the Rule of Life that shaped the Franciscans. Concluding with explanations of his powerful practices, the book reveals wisdom applicable to contemporary life. St. Francis emphasized living a simple, truthful life, making his spiritual practices as relevant today as they were centuries ago. This work serves as an ideal guide for anyone interested in learning about the saint or wishing to incorporate his wisdom into their spiritual journey.