Zen Keys

Thich Nhat Hanh, the beloved author of Peace Is Every Step, has brought his warmth and clarity to this unique explication of Zen Buddhism. Beginning with stories from his first years in a Zen monastery, Nhat Hanh brings the Zen tradition in Vietnam to life and offers clears explanations of the central elements of Zen practice and philosophy. Thorough attention is given to concepts such as mindfulness, to contemporary issues such as the conflicts between modern technology and spirituality, and helpful guidance is offered for living the Zen life. The final section includes a set of forty-three koans from the thirteenth century Vietnamese master Tran Thai Tong, which are beautifully translated here for the first time into English. Originally published in 1974 and now completely revised, Zen Keys has been unavailable for several years but is now reissued to meet the ever-expanding need for a better understanding of Zen philosophy in the West. Readers will find it as fresh today as when it was first written., and will be struck by the timelessness of its insights. What makes this work particularly compelling is the Thich Nhat Hanh is able to invigorate wha tin the presentations may seem empty abstract principles. The example he has set in his own life as a relentless advocate for peace brings strength and a realistic understanding to idealistic Buddhist goals. In Zen Keys, Thich Nhat Hanh presents the philosophy that has enabled him to be mindful of peace in every moment.