Some good books on Buddhism?

Question

I am currently an atheist, but Buddha's teachings are very appealing to me and I would like to learn more. What are their holy books? What are some other good books? I am currently reading the Quantum and the Lotus which is mainly what sparked my intrest.

Why can't an atheist enjoy learning about spirituality? It's not like the moment we give it up we can't tolerate religion.

Answer 1

Please take this suggestion.

I've read a lot of books about Buddhism. The problem with reading is that we often misunderstand and misinterpret what we read. I've done it myself.

The one book that is so simple and direct is the Tao Te Ching. It's so simple that our complicated minds can't touch it. It is one book that cannot be misunderstood. It helps to simplify our mind.
I'm not saying its easy to understand, I am saying that you won't misunderstand though.

Try reading various translations. It will be in the Taoism section of Eastern Philosophy, at the store.

Answer 2

Good book! One of my faves. I know it sounds goofy but the "Complete Idiots Guide to Buddhism" is a good overview to get you on track to understand the basics. If you like the philosophy, then you can decide from there whether you want to read and follow, Zen Buddhism, Tibetan Buddhism or whatnot and pick authors from within those branches.

Check out SnowLion Publications' website and peruse... there are LOTS of titles on everything you ever wanted to know but I don't have the time or space to share here. *w* May you find happiness and freedom from suffering. _()_

Answer 3

While I don't know exactly where to send you, you can read the writings of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the moral teachings of the Most Holy Father Benedict XVI.

Here's the Dalai Lama:
http://www.dalailama.com/
And the Holy See papal documents:
http://www.vatican.va/offices/papal_docs_list.html

If you insist on atheism you'll have to ignore spirituality while reading the encyclicals, however, they are very good.

Answer 4

I was going to come in and recommend Idiot's, then I saw what you were currently reading, and decided not to. But then I read someone else's rec. for it, so I don't feel so bad.

I learned a lot from both that book and from the Dummy's version.

Answer 5

I can recommend Zen Flesh, Zen Bones by Paul Reps

Answer 6

Please go to:http://www.bswa.org
the above site is one the best site if you want to learn about Buddhism;better than any books.

Answer 7

try the Dhammapada