Wisdom and the Compassionate Mind - Awesome Combination!

This wonderful book entitled, The Dalai Lama’s Book of Wisdom, is written by the Dalai Lama himself and is packed with wonderful thoughts. The book is divided into four sections as follows: Part One: Contentment, Joy and Living Well; Part Two: Facing Death and Dying; Part Three: Dealing with Anger and Emotion; and Part Four: Giving and Receiving. The language in the book flows very well and is easy to understand. This book is not written for Ph.D. students. It’s written in normal language for anyone to read and clearly understand its words.

The Dalai Lama addresses the Four Noble Truths in Part One as follows: 1) That there is suffering; 2) that suffering has a cause; 3) that there is cessation of suffering; and, 4) that there is a path to such freedom from suffering. The first part of the book spells out these areas. He uses the analogy of short-term and long-term consequences in his explanations, and states how a person’s intelligence may oppose the long-term factors because of the short-term immediate feelings of gain.

The objects of enjoyment, desire, and material wellbeing are also discussed regarding the Buddhist literature and the five types of desires which include: form, sound, odor, taste and tactile sensation. The fact that these may bring about suffering and dissatisfaction depends on how a person uses his or her intelligence is also discussed. He ends Part One by stating that “Good Conduct” is the way in which life becomes more meaningful, constructive and peaceful. Additionally, he states that the quality of these actions is dependent on a person’s mental attitude.

Compassion is addressed in Part Four. The Dalia Lama states that compassion is the most wonderful and precious thing and he believes human nature is compassionate and gentle. The lack of compassion has a damaging effect on the developing brain of a child he states, and those who are not compassionate instill fear into others which turns them away. He acknowledges that positive development is a result of compassionate conduct, which leads to happiness, and assist others in overcoming suffering. This section also indicates that all sentient beings should be looked upon as equals, which leads to genuine development of compassion.

The Dalia Lama also makes several references to another book. He states it is an excellent source to read and is entitled, A Guide to the Bodhisattva Way of Life, which is a classic Buddhist text. He has read the book and found it to be very instructive and informative. He concludes by stating that giving to others instills positive qualities, virtuous states of mind, positive energy, and greater happiness. Additionally, he states that such feelings only lead to a transformative state of love and compassion for others when conducted with goodwill from one’s heart.

Wisdom and the Compassionate Mind - Awesome Combination!