In this companion to his best-selling translation ofThe Dhammapada, Eknath Easwaran explains howThe Dhammapadais a perfect map for the spiritual journey.Said to be the text closest to the Buddhas actual words,The Dhammapadais a collection of short teachings that his disciples memorized during his lifetime. Easwaran presentsThe Dhammapadaas a guide to spiritual perseverance, progress, and ultimately enlightenment a heroic confrontation with life as it really is, with straight answers to our deepest questions. We witness the heartbreak of death, for instance what does that mean for us? What is love? How does karma work? How do we follow the spiritual life in the midst of work and family? Does nirvana really exist, and if so, what is it like to be illumined?In his interpretation of Buddhist themes, illustrated with stories from the Buddhas life, Easwaran offers a view of the concept of Right Understanding that is both exhilarating and instructive. He shares his experiences on the spiritual path, giving the advice that only an experienced teacher and practitioner can offer, and urges us to answer for ourselves the Buddhas call to nirvana that mysterious, enduring state of wisdom, joy, and peace.

An Introduction
Chapter One: Should I Go?
Chapter Two: An Earnest Beginning
Chapter Three: Finding the Courage
Chapter Four: Love for All
Chapter Five: Traveling Light
Chapter Six: The Inner Journey
Chapter Seven: The Other Shore
Glossary
Index