Zen Flesh, Zen Bones - (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

"This book has been a steadfast portal through which millions in the West have peered to catch at the very least a glimpse of Zen mind at play in all its thought-shattering dialogue, humor, joy, and wisdom."--Jon Kabat-Zinn, author of Wherever You Go, There You Are

Zen Flesh, Zen Bones offers a remarkable collection of primary sources which enable readers to experience the meaning of Zen directly for themselves. It includes:

• 101 Zen Stories, a collection of tales recounting the experiences of Chinese and Japanese Zen Buddhist teachers over a period of over five centuries
• The Gateless Gate, a famous collection of Zen koans
• Ten Bulls, a commentary on the stages of awareness leading to enlightenment
• Centering, an ancient text from India that many consider to provide the foundations for Zen Buddhism

When Zen Flesh, Zen Bones was first published in 1957 it created an instant sensation with an entire generation of readers who were just beginning to discover Zen. Over the years it has inspired leading Zen teachers, students and practitioners around the world, and its popularity is as strong today as ever.

Review Quotes

"I honestly didn't know ancient Zen stories could be so entertaining, and I didn't expect these ancient texts would be so relatable too. [...] This is for those who want a light, quick read--but are also searching for easily-digestible wisdom told in small bites." -- Dominique Jardiolin, "Chroniqled" bookstagram

"It has stayed with me for the last 30 years, a classic portraying Zen mind to our linear thinking." --Phil Jackson, Head Coach of the Chicago Bulls and author of Sacred Hoops

"Perhaps the first Dharma book I ever read, Zen Flesh, Zen Bones, remains a classic, a gem, a gift to us all." --Dr. Daniel Goleman, author of Emotional Intelligence

"This book has been a steadfast portal through which millions in the West have peered to catch at the very least a glimpse of Zen mind at play in all its thought-shattering dialogue, humor, joy, and wisdom." --Jon Kabat-Zinn, author of Wherever You Go, There You Are

"This book was my introduction to Buddhism nearly thirty years ago. I am delighted to see this new edition of this wonderful classic." --Sylvia Boorstein, author of It's Easier Than You Think

About the Author

Paul Reps (1895-1990) lived in many countries including India, Norway and Japan where he studied man's efforts to find and realize his true spiritual self. He was the author of several books of poetry and prose. He once said he felt "the equal of each grass blade and pebble and believes that it is possible to be happy though human and grown up."

Nyogen Senzaki, a Buddhist scholar of international stature to whom Reps acknowledged a deep debt of gratitude, was born in Japan. Early in life he became a "homeless monk," wandering from one Buddhist monastery to another. His wanderings eventually brought him to America, where for over 50 years he lived in California, with no connection with any sect, denomination or church, radiating the free and creative spirit of Zen upon all who cared to share his study, wisdom and loving kindness.