Essential Wisdom Library

One of the best known and most beloved of the Buddhist scriptures, The Dhammapada is a collection of the sayings of the Buddha. According to tradition, each of the verses contained within the text were spoken by the Buddha, surviving through the centuries to find their way into the hands of modern readers. Translated by Max Muller, the verses cover a range of topics from Thought and Pleasure to Old Age, Happiness, and The Way. They are both simple and profound, guideposts to living an enlightened life and incisive shards of wisdom that cut through our passivity to the reality of spiritual enlightenment. This edition of The Dhammapada is part of the Essential Wisdom Library, a series that seeks to bring spiritual wisdom, both old and new, to modern readers.

An introduction to St. Francis's life and his most profound teachings of faith St. Francis of Assisi is one of the most venerated Christian figures, and his profound teachings, deep love of nature, and commitment to simplicity have resonated with generations of followers. St. Francis of Assisi, the latest title in the Essential Wisdom Library, offers a simple and universal introduction to Francis's life, his key teachings, and the spiritual practices that enriched his faith and the lives of those who follow his legacy. Author Jon M. Sweeney, one of the most popular Francis interpreters, introduces the iconic Christian as a man of his time and as one whose wisdom transcends eras. Beginning with a timeline of the saint's life, St. Francis of Assisi includes the teachings that made Francis such a unique and powerful figure. His words apply to a diverse set of situations-from advice for people in positions of power, to teachings on gratitude, and the Rule of Life which governed every facet of life for Franciscans. The book concludes with explanations of some of his most powerful practices, which can offer wisdom and insight for our own lives. St. Francis emphasized the importance of living a simple, truthful life, making his spiritual practices just as impactful and relevant in the modern day as they were centuries ago. St. Francis of Assisi is the perfect guide for anyone looking to learn more about the saint or hoping to incorporate his wisdom into their own spiritual lives.

Achieve personal freedom using Toltec wisdom. The gift of the Toltec is the ability to transcend ordinary human awareness and achieve personal freedom-the ability to choose how to act rather than react to the events in your life. The three Toltec Masteries of Awareness, Transformation, and Intent are the key to transcending your limitations and experiencing yourself as the creator of your life. Designed to make Toltec wisdom accessible and simple, this book is about change, transforming yourself, and the wildly empowering freedom of personal responsibility. Included in each chapter are exercises and guided visualizations, along with parable-like stories that are powerful sources of wisdom. Susan Gregg's new edition of The Toltec Way is part of the Essential Wisdom Library, a collection of books bringing sacred wisdom to modern readers. Refreshed with a new design and a new introduction by the author, along with a foreword by don Miguel Ruiz, The Toltec Way will introduce a new generation of readers to the power of Toltec wisdom.

Thomas à Kempis's The Imitation of Christ is a timeless devotional guide calling readers to a Christlike life, featuring an introduction by Jon M. Sweeney. One of the most beloved Christian devotionals, The Imitation of Christ was originally written in Latin during the fifteenth century and inspired countless readers to deepen their faith and build a stronger relationship with Christ. Kempis was focused on the contemplative, inner life and his work has been a trusted guide for generations of Christians in their own walks of faith. In the first two sections of the book, Kempis reflects on the spiritual and interior life, offering wisdom for those seeking to begin their own journey of reflection and contemplation. The final section of the book focuses on two imagined dialogues between Jesus and an unnamed disciple, which illuminate the totality of God's love and grace. The Imitation of Christ is part of the Essential Wisdom Library, a series of books that seeks to bring spiritual wisdom-both modern and ancient-to today's readers. This new edition of the classic text is a must read for seekers and believers alike.

A classic of Christian apologetics Part spiritual autobiography, part apologetics, Orthodoxy is G.K. Chesterton's account of his own journey to faith. Chesterton didn't set out to write a defense of Christian thought, instead he hoped to recount how he personally became a believer. However, in doing so, he penned one of the great classics of Christian writing, a book that has influenced countless people and continues to speak compellingly to our modern day. Chesterton writes about his journey of faith with wit, charm, and a razor-sharp intellect, undermining casual assumptions and lazy speculations in a relentless search for truth and meaning.

An essential work of Christian mysticism Interior Castle is the latest title in the Essential Wisdom Library, a series of books that seeks to bring spiritual wisdom-both modern and ancient-to today's readers. This new edition of the pivotal spiritual classic is a must read for seekers and believers alike. St. Teresa of Avila was one of the greatest Christian mystics, and dedicated her life to understanding how the soul can ascend to union with God. Interior Castle is her master work and a powerful guide for all seeking to explore prayer as an act of mystical, divine union. Interior Castle was inspired by a vision wherein St. Theresa saw a crystalline castle with God at the heart. The book is framed around the seven mansions that made up this castle, each one a stage of the journey of faith, ending with ultimate communion with God. St. Teresa's writings have inspired and guided generations of readers as they seek to develop a deeper understanding of divinity through mystical experience with God.