This classic scripture of Mahayana Buddhism and Zen emphasizes spiritual practice in the midst of secular life. Composed in about the second century CE, "The Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra " tells the story of a householder named Vimalakirti who lived a worldly life while following the Bodhisattva path. This sutra is particularly applicable to Western students of Buddhism because it teaches that people in the secular life can practice Buddhism as effectively as members of monastic communities. The translator provides an accurate and accessible text complete with explanatory notes and a glossary.

The Secrets of Chinese Meditation is a classic text that presents a rare opportunity: a chance to study the ancient and original sources which are the basis for most contemporary texts on consciousness development. Lu K'uaan Yu is one of the foremost interpreters of Chinese meditation practices. This concise volume is a presentation of different methods of meditation as practiced in China, including extracts from ancient and modern classics as well as practiced and detailed suggestions for meditation. Meditation is crucial for the development of consciousness, and the Taoist art of...