Reddit mentions of Diamond Sutra Explained

One of the first things I was going to mention was Zen Mind Beginner's Mind. It's a standard recommendation, as you know. Almost everyone practicing in contemporary Zen traditions has read this book, so it gives you a point of reference when relating to others, which is valuable in itself.

Beyond that, I would suggest giving the Sixth Patriarch's Platform Sutra a read. I'm sure you've heard of it, but it's basically the (very entertaining) story of how this guy becomes enlightened, and then a record of his activities and teachings. Concepts from the wider Buddhist tradition are presented in a strictly Zen context, which helps you understand the relationship between the two and "Zen's special message". Needless to say, it's a classic if anything is, sort of like Beethoven's Fifth or something (i.e. anyone into symphonies will have heard this by default). You can find it online, but I must say, I think real books are way more fun!

My third recommendation will be one from a more personal angle, that is to say, a book most people haven't read, by an author most people have never heard of. The book is Diamond Sutra Explained by the contemporary Zen master Nan Huaijin. The Diamond Sutra is important within the Zen tradition (the Sixth Patriarch mentioned above was awakened by hearing a line from it), and the discourse given by Master Nan is the best I've ever read. I'm trying to find the words to praise the material here, but it keeps coming off sounding absurdly effusive... so perhaps just read the reviews to get an idea. If you happen to try this one by my recommendation, I'd say you've hit gold.

Best wishes!

The Diamond Sutra Explained was the clearest book I've read on Buddhism and self cultivation in general.

I grew up lutheran too and thanks to Mahayana Buddhism, I have enriched my understanding of Christianity. I was taught spiritual cultivation by my Kung Fu teacher back in the day, he showed me the teachings of the Chán master Nan Huaijin and his student Bill Bodri. Mr. Bodri has a website and you can check out articles on meditation that can help you get started, http://www.meditationexpert.com/articles.html. If you ever get the chance I'd recommend you check out some of their books.

http://www.amazon.com/Twenty-Five-Doors-Meditation-Handbook-Entering/dp/1578630355

http://www.amazon.com/Diamond-Sutra-Explained-Huaijin-Nan/dp/0971656126


Personally, I practice the Guanyin's listening to sound method (which I recommend 100%), the Zhunti-vairocana mantra, pranayama, vispassana-shamatha, anapana, emptiness or zen meditation, the white skeleton visualization, yoga nidra, the cloud of unknowing, hesychasm, neti-neti, etc.

There is a lot of terminology and spiritual theory that you'll have to familiarize yourself with, but nothing equates actually attaining samadhi and cultivating prajna.

The three pillars of Buddhism are Sila (virtue or discipline), Samadhi/dhyana(quietude), Prajna(transcendental wisdom).

These are the three things are paramount.

Sila refers to following the precepts without wavering, practicing good deeds and cutting off evil ways, this is the hardest, considering letting go of and uprooting sexual desire is the utmost concern if you wish to make true spiritual progress. That is why I'm a member of r/nofap.

Without eradicating lust, you cannot attain the higher meditative states, called Dhyana. These states are a result of great practice and are stepping stones to attaining enlightenment, the goal of Buddhism and every other religion. It is very difficult to attain or master these states. It is characterized as a profound quieting of the mind as a result of extensive meditative concentration.

Prajna arises due to dhyana, you cannot translate prajna as merely wisdom, although it can be used loosely. Prajna is insight or "right view". It is difficult to cultivate right view, it requires a lot of reading and a lot of sitting, but even then it may not be enough, just don't lose heart and keep practicing.

This is just the beginning, there is A LOT more you should know. If you have any questions just message me and I'll try to help. I hope that helps.