Library Loot ~ April 25 - May1

Living Buddha, Living Christ ~ by Thích Nhất Hạnh, introduction by Elaine Pagels, 1995, religion

Buddha and Christ, perhaps the two most pivotal figures in the history of humankind, each left behind a legacy of teachings and practices that have shaped the lives of billions of people over two millennia.  If they were to meet on the road today, what would each think of the other's spiritual views and practices?  Thích Nhất Hạnh explores the crossroads of compassion and holiness at which the two traditions meet, and reawakens our understanding of both.

Even though I am trying to read twice as many of my own books as library books (see other goals), I got this one because the author is one Jeffrey Small says influenced his ideas in writing his novel The Breath of God.

Finally, the writings of the following scholars have inspired me and contributed to many of my themes:  Marcus Borg, Thích Nhất Hạnh, John Hick, Stephen Mitchell, John Robinson, Huston Smith, John Shelby Spong, and Paul Tillich.

I have studied or read books by all of the others, so I figured I need to read something by Hạnh, as well.  This title seems to be the one by him in my library that most directly related to what was in Jeffrey Small's novel, one I've almost bought a time or two, so I checked it out yesterday.  I am also happy to see that the introduction is by Elaine Pagels, a writer whose books I have appreciated for over thirty years.  The foreword is by Brother David Steindl-Rast, another impressive thinker.  This really looks to be an excellent book.

Library Loot is a weekly event co-hosted by Claire @ The Captive Reader and Marg @ The Adventures of an Intrepid Reader that encourages bloggers to share titles of books they’ve checked out of the library. To participate, add your post to their Mister Linky any time during the week. And check out what others got from their libraries this week.