When most University students think about Buddhism, they may conjure up visions of robed monks, prayer flags and the mountainous terrain of Tibet. Many would be surprised to learn that the United States' largest center for Buddhist and Tibetan Buddhist studies is here in Charlottesville.
The University's Jeffrey Hopkins, a religion professor, has experienced a more intimate relationship with Buddhist culture than most Westerners. Through his extensive experience with Buddhist culture in Tibet, he has brought an important taste of the East to University students. He has worked as the personal translator for His Holiness, the Dalai Lama, as well as produced extensive scholarly work. These experiences give Hopkins a perspective not seen at many universities.
In his new book "Cultivating Compassion: A Buddhist Perspective," Hopkins offers a guide to experiencing the power and love of Buddhism and enhancing the quality and joy of life. Smart and elegantly written, "Compassion" strikes a personal note with readers. Hopkins' anecdotes provide an entertaining medium for even the most unschooled student of Eastern religion, and the book's clear and uncompromising mission to instill the heart with kindness moves the audience to continue reading.
"Cultivating Compassion" was written primarily for "people who want to change their attitude and get rid of some of their problems," Hopkins said. Unlike many other books about Buddhist thought and personal change, "Cultivating Compassion" attempts to put the Buddhist ideals of compassion and love in the context of everyday American life.
Most interestingly, the book provides numerous multi-stepped meditation exercises drawn from Buddhist thought. Growing progressively more intense throughout the book, these exercises ask the reader to think about his relationship to neutral acquaintances, friends and enemies. Gradually, it is shown that through a deeper state of consciousness, people can cultivate love and kindness for all people they encounter in life.
While Hopkins' meditation exercises may seem foreign to some people, he does not stray so far from Western expectations to risk losing the reader in confusing Buddhist spirituality. There remains a distinct place where Buddhist thought fits into American society, and the book shows that Buddhist ideals and principles aren't nearly as different from Christian or Protestant thought as some people may think.
The book, one of more than 25 Hopkins has written during his career, brings a local charm to the University, where a significant interest in Buddhism exists among undergraduate and graduate students.
The real success of "Cultivating Compassion" lies in its ability to put Buddhist thought in the context of everyday life. Hopkins' immense experience as a translator for the Dalai Lama and his immersion in Buddhist culture allow him to effectively bridge the gap between Eastern and Western worlds.
"Cultivating Compassion" presents a new perspective on living in a large society. The book urges the reader to find deeper meaning and greater kindness in life, and, at the same time, offers guidance and comfort for that quest. Simple enough for first-time pupils yet enlightening enough for the serious spiritual, it is enjoyable and compact. This working guide to practical Buddhism is a must-read for those enticed by Eastern religions and who want a fresh perspective on American life.
Hopkins will begin a summer promotion tour for the book in Charlottesville on April 26.
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