Buddhism is now one of the fastest-growing religions in the West and it is evolving in new directions. Although deeply rooted in the ancient Buddhist tradition, the emerging Western Buddhism is nonetheless willing to consider its great heritage with a critical eye, to question traditional doctrines and methods and to ask how we can live out these teaching in our modern lives.

A Westerner himself, Kulananda presents some of the key ideas and methods by which he and his contemporaries now live. In simple, clear language he addresses and explores many fundamental Buddhist concepts, including the relationships between consciousness and reality, ourselves and the world. He also radically reassesses the ways in which the encounter between Buddhism and Western culture affects our lives on a religious, cultural, social and economic level.

Western Buddhists stand today at a highly creative juncture. This book offers an essential insight into how Buddhism is being redefined. Newcomers will find it a useful and accessible introduction to ideas and practices that have for too long been veiled in mystification, and experienced Buddhists will find a refreshing new perspective on familiar ground.

Kulananda is a second generation Western Buddhist teacher. Ordained in 1977, he is a leading member of the Western Buddhist Order. He is devoted to creating contexts in which Westerners can practice Buddhism.

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