A high-quality photographic worldwide journey through the art and architecture inspired by the Buddha, accompanied by some of his most profound and enlightening teachings.
In the twenty-five centuries since the Buddha's death, his profound teachings and path have guided and enlightened millions of lives. The Buddha also has inspired some of the most beautiful and magnificent artistic creations ever produced by humanity. Jon Ortner's photographs of more than 150 of the extraordinary works of art grace this volume. From the rare Laotian Buddhas filing the Pak Ou Caves to the colossal gold and gem-encrusted Maha Muni Buddha of Mandalay, the Buddha's wisdom, compassion and serenity are equally present. Simple but powerful verses from the sacred teachings of the Buddha accompany the photographs. The foreword by Jon Ortner talks about their creation and the introduction by Jack Kornfield gives the reader an understanding of the Buddha's life and influence. Additional notes in the back of the book provide descriptive and historic information on key images.
The Buddha was not a god. He was a human teacher in the sixth century BCE who showed others the path of enlightenment that he discovered. Today there are growing legions of Buddhists in the West with perhaps even greater numbers of non-Buddhist influenced by Buddhist thought and practice. It is our hope that it will appeal to practising Buddhists as well as anyone simply looking for an added measure of beauty and peace in his or her life.
