num_pages: 208
description: A clear and concise introduction to the teachings and philosophies of the three main vehicles of Buddhism  Theravada Mahayana and Vajrayana through a Tibetan lensThis comprehensive guide to the Buddhist path from the Tibetan point of view is as accessible as it is complete. Traleg Kyabgon breaks the teachings down conveniently into the three traditional vehicles while never letting us forget that the point of all the Dharma is nothing other than insight into the mind and heart. Along the way he provides vivid definitions of fundamental Buddhist concepts such as compassion emptiness and Buddha-nature and answers common questions such  Why does Buddhism teach that there is no self? Are Buddhist teachings pessimistic? Does Buddhism encourage social passivity? What is the role of sex in Buddhist tantra? Why is it said that samsara is nirvana? Does it take countless lifetimes to attain enlightenment or can it be achieved in a moment?
language: English
title: The Essence of Buddhism: An Introduction to Its Philosophy and Practice
publisher: Shambhala