Is there a specific philosophy book that would help me gain strength mentally?

Question

Does anyone know a book that could maybe make me stronger in spirit, mind and basically have a more positive outlook on life.
I've read zen type books that have helped me focus more in school, has anyone read a book that has influenced your life in a positive way.

beside the bible which I already read

JMH that sounds like a good book to read which should I read first, the Thich Nhat Hanh's or the Dhammapada

Answer 1

Lax...

I am not sure which of the "zen type books" you have read, but the best books on Buddhist philosophy have content that can be helpful to you far beyond just focusing better in school.

The more I study and read about Buddhism and Buddhist philosophy (it is a philosophy, not a religion), the more impressed I am with its logic and its power to transform us.

The Dhammapada is the essential book on Buddhism and the teachings of the Buddha. This is an ancient text - much older than the Bible - that is available everywhere. It is worth reading again and again.

But if I had one contemporary book on Buddhism that I believe would give you what you are looking for, it would be Thich Nhat Hanh's "The Heart of the Buddha's Teachings: Transforming Suffering Into Peace, Joy and Liberation."

Next to the Dalai Lama, Thich Nhat Hanh is probably the best know Buddhist in the world. He has been writing books on Buddhism for many years. A peace activist, he was once nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize by the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King. His writing is simple and straightforward, elegant in its style and profound in its wisdom.

I cannot recommend this book highly enough. I congratulate you on your desire to improve your life, and I wish you well in your journey.

EDIT:

Lax...I would start with Thich Nhat Hahn. He incorporates much of the essential elements of the Dhammapada in his writing. The Dhammapada would be an excellent reference work if you find you want to learn more while you are reading Thich Nhat Hahn. Thanks for asking.

Answer 2

properly i'm presently examining philosophy at a point, and that i take advantage of the textbook "information Philosophy" by utilising Christopher Hamilton. genuinely allowed me to benefit a beginning for the challenge and much greater complicated subjects now. besides the reality that it only is composed of concept of information and covers some important works by utilising philosophers i could nevertheless recommend it for a beginner.

Answer 3

Not only those who read, but also those who write with the purpose of "gaining mental strength" are engaging in pseudo-philosophy. At a great remove from the spirit - the premise supporting this question.

Answer 4

The Bible

Answer 5

If the Holy Bible did not do it, you should put yourself in question. Possibly you did not understand what ought be understood? Possibly you should try and find a guide through the Bible (beware of priests)? Possibly you want more than you are able to get? Is your nationality compatible with the Bible, or with any philosophy?

Answer 6

" philosophy: who needs it? everyone" by ayn rand
(*please read this book. i have gained alot from reading it and i still do. i read it a billion times, as to where the pages of my book are curled and falling apart. what i gained from the book is intellectual confidence and self-esteem. it has changed me radically. i'm sure you will be interested if you're impressed with knowledge and absolutes concerning logic and reality.)

Answer 7

the one quest by Claudio Naranjo ISBN ) 7045 01120

nice positive strong outlook on life

Answer 8

Try Buddhism. Worked for me.

Answer 9

read alchemist by paulo cohelo

Answer 10

AMAZING WHAT THE BIBLE DOES......