Welcome to our collection of recommended books! Each book has been thoughtfully chosen to provide meaningful insights into Buddhist teachings and support your spiritual growth. They range from foundational texts to modern interpretations, from Mahayana to Theravada teachings, helping you connect deeply with the Dharma.
We also want to let you know that the Buddhist Faith Fellowship is part of the non-profit Amazon Affiliate Program. This means that when you purchase any item through our affiliate links, a small portion of the sale helps us cover operating costs and fund our programs. Your support allows us to continue and expand our offerings, bringing the Dharma to more people. Thank you for walking this path with us!
General Buddhism
Introducing Buddhism by Chris Pauling is a concise and accessible guide to the core teachings, practices, and history of Buddhism. This book offers a clear and practical introduction for beginners and those seeking a deeper understanding of the Buddhist path
Buddha-Dharma: The Way to Enlightenment presents a sweeping, almost biblical narrative that ties together the key Theravāda and Mahāyāna scriptures, illustrating the life of the Buddha, the journeys of his disciples, and the depth of his teachings. This comprehensive work guides readers through foundational sutras, ethical principles, and meditation practices, making it an essential resource for understanding the Buddha’s path and its enduring legacy across traditions.
The Buddha’s Teachings on Prosperity by Bhikkhu Basnagoda Rahula explores the Buddha’s practical advice on achieving success, happiness, and balance in everyday life. With insights on sex, money, relationships, work, making decisions, and ethical living,
The Beginner’s Guide to Walking the Buddha’s Eightfold Path by Jean Smith is a practical and accessible guide that introduces readers to the foundational teachings of Buddhism, offering clear steps to incorporate the Eightfold Path into daily life, making it ideal for anyone seeking spirit.
Awakening of the Heart by Thich Nhat Hanh offers essential Buddhist sutras like the Heart and Diamond Sutras, and Discourse on Happiness alongside insightful commentary, forming a concise yet profound guide to the Buddha’s teachings and their relevance to mindful living.
Shin Buddhist Books
River of Fire, River of Water by Taitetsu Unno is the ideal first step into Shin Buddhism; this modern classic offers an accessible introduction to Shin Buddhism and for a deeper exploration. It’s a must read!
Taitetsu Unno’s Shin Buddhism: Bits of Rubble Turn into Gold delves deeper into the nuances of Shinran’s teachings and their relevance to modern life. It explores more intricate themes, offering rich insights for those ready to expand their understanding and commitment to the Shin Buddhist path. Together, with his River of Fire, River of Water, these books provide a thoughtful progression for anyone seeking to embrace the transformative wisdom of Shin.
We highly suggest The Promise of a Sacred World: Shinran’s Teaching of Other Power by Nagapriya as your second Shin book for its clear and inspiring exploration of Shinran’s vision of spiritual transformation, offering insights that make this profound teaching accessible for modern seekers
The Buddha of Infinite Light: The Teachings of Shin Buddhism, the Japanese Way of Wisdom and Compassion by D.T. Suzuki for its scholarly yet affectionate introduction to Shin. As a prominent 21st century Zen teacher, Suzuki’s deep wisdom and clarity offer a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of wisdom and compassion that bllend across Buddhist traditions, making this an invaluable resource for both newcomers and seasoned practitioners.
For looking into the theme of living, dying and death we highly recommend Coffinman: The Journal of a Buddhist Mortician by Shinmon Aoki for its candid exploration of these topics through the lens of Buddhist teachings. Aoki’s unique perspective as a mortician offers profound insights into impermanence, making this book a powerful reflection on how to live with mindfulness and acceptance of mortality.
Zen BuddhisT Books
Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind by Shunryu Suzuki is a timeless introduction to Zen practice, blending simplicity with profound insight to help readers approach life with an open, beginner’s mind, making it an essential resource for cultivating mindfulness and presence.
Be Free Where You Are by Thich Nhat Hanh, a longtime favorite of the Buddhist Faith Fellowship, offers a short, simple yet profound exploration of mindfulness, compassion, and inner freedom, providing practical teachings that resonate deeply with everyday life.
The Zen of Living and Dying by Philip Kapleau, written by a pioneering American Zen teacher, offers a practical and spiritual guide to facing mortality with mindfulness and grace. Its profound insights blend Zen wisdom with compassionate teachings, making it an invaluable resource for navigating life’s ultimate transitions.