Nearly every line of the Dhammapada, from the first "All that we are is the result of what we have thought," is quotable and worth ruminating over. Eloquent, insightful, and brief, this Buddhist scripture is the kind of book that finds its way into purses, backpacks, and briefcases for perusal anytime, anywhere. The call of the Dhammapada is to the path of awakening, to undertake the effort of meditation, and to see through the veneer of the suffering life. In this rendition by author and Zen student Jack Maguire, it retains its purity and insight while offering more in the way of textual understanding. Maguire begins with Max Muller's late-19th-century translation, which, although problematic at points, stands the test of time. He then polishes and adds numerous notes on facing pages about the text itself and about Buddhist concepts. A fluid and critical translation of a masterpiece of Buddhist literature, Maguire's Dhammapada is worth taking out of your bag anytime, anywhere. --Brian Bruya

From Library Journal
SkyLight Paths has republished and augmented a classic translation of one of Buddhism's core texts, the Dhammapada, supposed to have been uttered by the Buddha himself. Muller's plain and graceful translation has been lightly amended by Zen student and author Maguire, who provides well-informed and helpful notes. This book offers a welcome reintroduction to the Buddha's teaching: "Hatred ceases by love." Highly recommended. Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

FROM THE CRITICS

Library Journal