Unofficial Buddhist

A Path Made by Walking

By (author) Robert Bluck

Book cover: Unofficial Buddhist

Extent: 120 pages

Publisher: Equinox Publishing

Subjects: Asian/Pacific Studies & Religions, Buddhist Studies, Religious Studies

Language: English

Paperback (Published)

(September 2025)

ISBN: 9781800505711

6.1 x 9.17 inches

Price: $22.95

In stock

Hardback (Published)

(September 2025)

ISBN: 9781800505704

6.1 x 9.17 inches

Price: $80.00

In stock

The Unofficial Buddhist seeks to find a middle way between ancient and modern worldviews, religious and secular approaches, and Asian and western cultural attitudes. Drawing on traditional Theravada and modern Zen sources, it suggests practical ways of engaging with the Buddha’s ancient path of morality and meditation, leading towards the wisdom of awakening.


What is an unofficial Buddhist? Someone whose monastery is their living room! This book explores Buddhist-inspired teaching and practice for today’s secular world – but outside the monastic traditions of Buddhism. The Unofficial Buddhist seeks to find a middle way between ancient and modern worldviews, religious and secular approaches, and Asian and western cultural attitudes. Drawing on traditional Theravada and modern Zen sources, it suggests practical ways of engaging with the Buddha’s ancient path of morality and meditation, leading towards the wisdom of awakening. Western Buddhists often practise with friends or alone. Perhaps they have no local Buddhist centre, or haven’t found those nearby appealing – or they’re wary of organized religion in general. These ‘unofficial Buddhists’ have been called Buddhism’s ‘new pioneers’, exploring the inner territory of how to practise the Buddha’s teaching in the modern world. In both Europe and North America, they’re probably more numerous than any of the traditional groups. So if you have been practising Buddhism without finding a local centre where you feel comfortable – or if you are outside Buddhism, but looking in with interest – you are probably an unofficial Buddhist yourself. If so, this book is for you.

 
Introduction

Part One: Drawing the Map

1. Four Truths – or Four Tasks?

2. Looking for the Middle Way
3. Finding a Local Path
4. Towards a Zen Path?

Part Two: Walking the Path

5. Taking the First Steps

 
6. Cultivating Compassionate Behaviour
7. The Power of Speech
8. And What do You do for a Living?
9. Focusing on the Present
10. Skilful Meditation
11. A Path towards Wisdom?
12. All Together Now

Appendix

Verses for Meditation and Reflection

 
  • By (author) Robert Bluck

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