Buddhism has long been called the most "green" of all the world's religions. This anthology reinforces that view with its in-depth, wide-ranging, and thought-provoking collection of essays, philosophical commentary, religious texts, and spiritual practices.
Here you will find classic Buddhist texts on nature and reverence for life; contemporary interpretations of these ancient teachings by Gary Snyder, Thich Nhat Hanh, William LaFleur, and others; a look at environmental realities facing Buddhist countries today; examples of engaged Buddhism, from the defense of forests to the protection of animal rights; essays on melding meditation practice and ecological awareness; analyses of challenges facing Buddhist thought and action in this arena; and a crosscut of ecologically oriented guided meditations, gathas, and other passages for ceremonies and daily practice.
Two of the most creative essays involve specific examples of Earth-cherishing practices. In "Thailand's Ecology Monks," Pipob Udomittipong describes how these Buddhists are trying to save threatened forests by ritually ordaining the trees. In "Guarding the Earth," Joanna Macy proposes a project to contain the poison fire of nuclear waste.
