• Waking the Buddha

  • How the Most Dynamic and Empowering Buddhist Movement in History Is Changing Our Concept of Religion
  • By: Clark Strand
  • Narrated by: Mel Foster
  • Length: 3 hrs and 59 mins
  • 4.4 out of 5 stars (64 ratings)

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Waking the Buddha

By: Clark Strand
Narrated by: Mel Foster
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Publisher's summary

Is there more to Buddhism than sitting in silent meditation? Is modern Buddhism relevant to the problems of daily life? Does it empower individuals to transform their lives? Or has Buddhism become too detached, so still and quiet that the Buddha has fallen asleep? Waking the Buddha tells the story of the Soka Gakkai International, the largest, most dynamic Buddhist movement in the world today - and one that is waking up and shaking up Buddhism so it can truly work in ordinary people's lives. Drawing on his long personal experience as a Buddhist teacher, journalist, and editor, Clark Strand offers broad insight into how and why the Soka Gakkai, with its commitment to social justice and its egalitarian approach, has become a role model, not only for other schools of Buddhism, but for other religions as well.

©2014 Clark Strand (P)2014 Tantor

What listeners say about Waking the Buddha

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Wow! 5 stars

Amazing book! Right on point. Great book for someone interested in philosophy, life and being happy!
It's a keeper. I will add to my library

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5 people found this helpful

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Great content, narration robotic

I think this narrator also did Tony Robbins' Money book. I'm sure he's hired because he enunciates well and has nice timbre, but man--there's such a lack of emotion.
Luckily the book is not one with dramatic scenes, but I feel I would have been engaged with the story more if his voice had been more appealing.
As for content, a great historical overview on the Soka Gakkai. I just started practicing and wanted an impartial view on the organization. I'm glad I listened.

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3 people found this helpful

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A bit of snooze

I felt like I was listening to an infomercial for SGI. The reader did a nice enough job of reading it but the book was dull.

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2 people found this helpful

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Great Intro to Nichiren Buddhism!!

If you're interested in Nichiren Buddhism, and prefer to hear a take on from someone who doesn't practice it, this is the one!

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1 person found this helpful

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Wonderful reflection

Great non bias view of SGI-USA. A new American member of thirty years it's refreshing

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1 person found this helpful

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Wonderful book with great narration

This is the first audiobook I've ever bought.
I really enjoyed the book with the great narration.

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I don’t want to read about politics on Buddhism book

The author should avoid discussing Politics in this book. It should focus only on Buddhism.

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SGI

I loved this book I am an SGI and this was not only information to those who are not Buddhist but very inspiring for me.

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Essentially a recruiting tool for SGI.

I was hoping to find some understanding about the SGI movement, but this book confirms that this religion is just a cult. There aren't any charities that they support, and their answer to everything that troubles you is to "chant" your way through the obstacles.
I think supporting your local community through charitable donations would be more helpful

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Great Explanation Regarding Growth in SGI

Loved it! Clear, concise, and interesting explanation regarding why the SGI became a global religion/belief system.

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