Difficult Beginnings

This is the first English translation of the works of Candragomin--a seventh-century Indian philosopher and poet--which have been highly influential in the practice of Buddhism over the past twelve centuries. The book provides an excellent introduction to Mahayana, the -middle way- of the Buddhist path. It will appeal to anyone interested in Eastern Religion.
Candragomin is regarded in the Indo-Tibetan tradition as an exemplar of the bodhisattva ideal. Difficult Beginnings presents three of the most important works. -Candragomin's Resolve- is a short verse aspiration. -Twenty Verses on the Bodhisattva Vow- is a basis for exposition of the bodhisattva vow. -Praise in Confession- recounts the problems that Candragomin encountered in his spiritual practice.
Dr. Tatz provides an excellent introduction to the theory and practice of the bodhisattva path, the ideal of attaining buddhahood--awakening--as well as the commitment to teach and guide others on this path. Also included is a fascinating account of Candragomin's life, and lengthy commentary on the three works presented here.