'Appearing on Empty' publication announced

Wisdom Publications will release the new book, "Appearing and Empty," by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and Pacific Northwest author and Buddhist nun, Thubten Chodron, on Aug. 29.

This is the ninth volume in the Dalai Lama’s definitive and comprehensive series of teachings on the entire Buddhist path, The Library of Wisdom and Compassion. It is also the third and final volume in the series on the philosophical topic of emptiness. The Library of Wisdom and Compassion ten-volume series is unique in the field of Buddhist literature because it is written specifically for modern Western readers.

“His Holiness is so practical in his teachings,” Chodron said. “He respects Western education and understands that Western audiences will respond to Buddhism's emphasis on analysis and reasoning.”

Volume 10 of the series, Vajrayana and the Culmination of the Path, will be released next year.

Readers are urged to start at the beginning of the series, "Approaching the Buddhist Path," which presents the Dalai Lama’s comprehensive explanation of the Buddhist view of life and path of spiritual transformation. Topics include mind and emotions, the spread of the Buddha’s teachings, the importance of kindness and compassion, and working in the world. By continuing on with subsequent volumes, readers are prepared to approach the sophisticated philosophical context of the newest release.

Trained in the rigorous Tibetan Buddhist monastic tradition, the Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of Tibet. Having taught Buddhism for nearly 70 years, he is recognized as one of the world’s leading authorities on Buddhism. He is well known for advocating ethical conduct, non-violence, and compassion in personal and global actions.

American-born Thubten Chodron, his editor and co-author, has studied with the Dalai Lama for over four decades. She was ordained as a Buddhist nun in 1977 and has studied with numerous Tibetan Buddhism masters. She teaches Buddhist philosophy and meditation worldwide. Chodron also is the founder and abbess of Sravasti Abbey, a Buddhist monastery near Newport, Wash.

Information: SravastiAbbey.org