Buddhism Is Not What You Think: Finding Freedom Beyond Beliefs

Bestselling author and renowned Zen teacher Steve Hagen examines the most essential and enduring questions at the heart of Buddhism: How can we see the world as it really is, rather than through the veil of our own hopes and fears? How can we base our actions on reality, rather than on the longing and loathing of our hearts and minds? How can we live lives that are wise, compassionate, and in tune with reality? And how can we separate the wisdom of Buddhism from the cultural trappings and misconceptions that have come to be associated with it?

Drawing on examples from everyday life as well as stories from Buddhist teachers past and present, Hagen tackles these fundamental inquiries with his trademark straightforward prose. The newcomer to Buddhism will be inspired by this accessible and informative introduction, and those more familiar with it will welcome this much needed hands-on guide to understanding what it truly means to be awake. Buddhism is Not What You Think offers a clear and profound path to a life of joy and freedom.

Steve Hagen has studied Buddhism for more than thirty years. He spent fifteen years studying with Dainin Katagiri Roshi, from whom he received Dharma transmission (endorsement to teach). He is a Zen priest and head teacher at Dharma Field Zen Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He is also the author of the international bestseller Buddhism Plain and Simple.

"This is not just another nice book about Buddhism, one telling us what we like to hear and are used to hearing. No -- it is a clear and challenging showing of the fundamental truth of our lives. This is an exceptional book. Make good use of it."

- Charlotte Joko Beck, author of Everyday Zen

--Robert M. Pirsig, author of Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance