Buddhism? [Spirituality & Religion]

Lately, I've been wanting to explore different religions and forms of spirituality, and I wanted to start with Buddism. Can someone help me out? Are there are any books or any type of material that you would recommend?

This page is a permanent link to the reply below and its nested replies. See all post replies »

GlassDog · 41-45, M

I found it very difficult to understand from the texts when I tried to learn. What I'd strong recommend is The Tao of Pooh, and The Te of Piglet. It explains the philosophy of Taoism (inextricably linked with Buddhism). Once you have that grounding, it's much easier to understand things like The Tibetan Book of the Dead.

Be prepared to take some time over it, though. The Buddhist and Taoist way is often at odds with western capitalist thinking. It requires us to rethink some things we think we know (such as more money, more friends, more possessions are a good thing).

PandaBlossom · 26-30, F

@GlassDog: Thank you so much for the recommendations–I'll look into it. Honestly, I'm really excited to learn something new: I want to gain new perspectives on things. Lately, I've been feeling... very lost and clueless? I know that I won't be able to learn and know everything, but i'm hoping learning about different things will help me gain a better outlook.

GlassDog · 41-45, M

@PandaBlossom: It certainly helped me when I was feeling similarly to the way you feel. Almost every day, I try to look at things through the perspective of Buddhism / Taoism, as well as my usual culture. If I'd give you any advice, it really is to take it slowly. The ideas take time to take root and you get so much more from it if you let them.