In Buddhism, true Enlightenment is the ability to know the past, present, and future of oneself and other beings. A practical guide for anyone seeking to understand Enlightenment, The Essence of Buddha explains the underlying philosophy of "Eightfold Path," or the life one is expected to lead to become as Buddha. In addition, readers will gain insight into the Six Paramitas and other Buddhist guidelines. Written by Ryuho Okawa, former Wall Street executive and one of the foremost Buddhist teachers in Japan, this book continues in the spirit of The Laws of the Sun and The Laws of Eternity. The introduction presents the life of Shakyamuni Buddha, and explains how and why he came to seek Enlightenment. In straightforward and concise language, Okawa addresses the questions of the soul and reincarnation. He also discusses the "Real World"-the light-and-energy world beyond our material world-and its hierarchy of dimensions, which are peopled by spirits who have achieved various degrees of Enlightenment.
