Good question, good answer is a general introduction to Buddhism by S. Dhammika. It deals with topics such as: What is Buddhism, how do Buddhists understand the concept of ´God, meditation, vegetarianism along with brief introductions to Buddha’s words, and apprehensions such as Wisdom and Compassion. If you are new to Buddhist assumptions, this is where to begin.
Download the entire book here:
Good Question, Good Answer
Good Question, Good Answer“Good Question, Good Answer” is a widely acclaimed introductory guide to Buddhism, authored by Venerable S. Dhammika. First published in 1987, this booklet addresses common questions about Buddhist teachings and practices, making it an invaluable resource for both newcomers and those seeking to deepen their understanding of the faith.
The book is structured around a series of questions and answers, covering topics such as:
-
What is Buddhism?: An overview of Buddhism’s origins, fundamental principles, and its relevance in the modern world.
-
Basic Buddhist Concepts: Exploration of core ideas like the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path.
-
Buddhism and the God-Idea: Discussion on the Buddhist perspective regarding deities and the concept of God.
-
The Five Precepts: Explanation of the basic ethical guidelines for lay Buddhists.
-
Rebirth: Insights into the Buddhist understanding of rebirth and the cycle of existence.
-
Meditation: Guidance on the practice and significance of meditation in Buddhism.A Buddhist Library
-
Wisdom and Compassion: The importance of cultivating these qualities on the spiritual path.
-
Vegetarianism: Considerations regarding diet and its relation to Buddhist ethics.
-
Good Luck and Fate: Buddhist views on luck, destiny, and personal responsibility.
-
Monks and Nuns: Understanding the role and lifestyle of the monastic community.
-
The Buddhist Scriptures: An introduction to the sacred texts of Buddhism.
-
History and Development: A brief history of Buddhism’s spread and evolution.
-
Becoming a Buddhist: Guidelines for those interested in embracing the Buddhist path.
The approachable Q&A format allows readers to navigate complex topics with ease, making it a popular choice for educational settings and personal study. Over the years, the book has been translated into multiple languages and distributed worldwide, reflecting its enduring value in conveying Buddhist teachings.