Short description
A translation of the "Dhammapada", which is the most revered sacred text in the Buddhist world. It is also one of the earliest collections of ancient Indian poetry. Often attributed to the Buddha himself, these inspirational verses convey the fundamental Buddhist teachings.
Long description
"The Dhammapada" is the most revered sacred text in the Buddhist world. Often attributed to the Buddha himself, these inspirational verses convey the fundamental Buddhist teachings. For more than two thousand years, Buddhists of all traditions have relied on it as a source of wisdom and guidance. Aside from its role in Buddhism, the "Dhammapada" is also important as one of the earliest collections of ancient Indian poetry. Modern readers seldom realize that the Buddha and his disciples often used poetry to convey their teachings and their emotional inspiration with spiritual life. Gil Fronsdal brings a unique understanding to this fresh new translation. As a scholar and a long time meditator and an experienced Dharma teacher, he offers a depth of appreciation and reverence for the text that is informed by academic rigor. Both accessible and accurate, this new translation of the "Dhammapada" is likely to stand apart from the others.
Review
In his highly praised new translation, Fronsdal brings to bear his considerable experience both as a scholar and a practitioner. His intimacy with the text is obvious: the verses ring out clearly on the first read, communicating their meaning with precision and poetic sensitivity. --Tricycle
It's always valuable to go back to the Dhammapada, that most-beloved and oft-translated of Buddhist texts. The publication of Gil Fronsdal's new translation gives us an excellent opportunity to do so. Fronsdal takes care in his choice of words and draws out subtleties of meaning with important significance for people who practice meditation. --Shambhala Sun
What sets this particular version apart is that its verses remain true to the original Pali, the canonical language of Buddhism in Southeast Asia. . . . With its easily readable blend of literary sensitivity and clarity of text, this new edition of the Dhammapada is a highly recommended addition to the practitioner's library of classical spiritual texts. --The Beacon
A fine new translation of an ancient classic. Fronsdal's balance of fidelity to the text and sensitivity to its spirit is perfect. A book to be treasured. --Carl Bielefeldt, Stanford University
The language is clear, precise, and inspiring, the phrasing spare and elegant--highly recommended. --Joseph Goldstein, author of One Dharma
I have read many Dhammapada translations in several languages, but never have I come across such a crisp, precise, and lucid translation as this. --Bhante Gunaratana, Bhavana Society