Download or read book The Pocket Idiot's Guide to Buddhism written by Bradley K. Hawkins and published by Penguin. This book was released on 2002-10-01 with total page 214 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: You’re no idiot, of course. You know many people have turned to Buddhism as an alternative to organized religion—but you’re mistaken if you believe that all Buddhists live a monklike existence. Don’t wait until your next life to experience Zen! The Pocket Idiot’s Guide™ to Buddhism reveals the essence of Buddhist thought from its inception in the Far East to its growing devotees in the West. In this Pocket Idiot’s Guide™, you get: --The life of Siddhartha—better known as the Buddha—the founder of Buddhism. --The basic Buddhist belief system, including the Three Marks of Existence, the Four Noble Truths, and the Eightfold Path. --Fully explained concepts such as Zen, karma, dharma, and sutras. --The history of the various Buddhist sects and their important influence.