"The Way of the Bodhisattva," also known as "Bodhicharyavatara," is a timeless classic written by the 8th-century Indian Buddhist scholar and sage, Shantideva. This profound text is a cornerstone of Mahayana Buddhism, offering profound insights into the path of the Bodhisattva, one who aspires to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.

In this text, Shantideva eloquently explores the qualities and practices of a Bodhisattva, emphasizing the cultivation of compassion, wisdom, and altruism. The book is structured in verses, each addressing various aspects of the bodhisattva path, such as patience, generosity, and the perfection of wisdom.

"The Way of the Bodhisattva" serves as both a practical guide and an inspirational source for Mahayana practitioners. It underscores the importance of transcending self-centeredness and working tirelessly for the welfare of others. This text has been translated into numerous languages and becomes among of the best books on Mahayana Buddhism.

Author: Shantideva

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Way-Bodhisattva-Bodhicaryavatara-Shambhala-Classics/dp/1590303881/

Ratings: 4.8 out of 5 stars (from 741 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #55,984 in Books
#10,274 in Religion & Spirituality (Books)

"Becoming Bodhisattvas: A Guidebook for Compassionate Action" is a contemporary book by Pema Chödrön, a well-known Tibetan Buddhist nun and teacher. Published in 2020, this book draws on the principles of Mahayana Buddhism to inspire and guide individuals on the path of compassionate action.

Pema Chödrön explores the concept of the Bodhisattva, a central figure in Mahayana Buddhism who aspires to attain enlightenment not only for their own benefit but also for the benefit of all sentient beings. The book offers practical teachings and practices that encourage readers to cultivate compassion, kindness, and selflessness in their lives.

"Becoming Bodhisattvas" emphasizes the relevance of Mahayana principles in addressing contemporary challenges and promoting positive social change. This book serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to integrate Mahayana Buddhism's compassionate ideals into their daily lives, offering guidance on how to become bodhisattvas by embodying the spirit of altruism and wisdom.

Author: Pema Chödrön

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Becoming-Bodhisattvas-Guidebook-Compassionate-Action/dp/1611806321/

Ratings: 4.7 out of 5 stars (from 366 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #56,322 in Books
#2 in Mahayana Buddhism
#27 in Tibetan Buddhism (Books)
#290 in Meditation (Books)

"The Lankavatara Sutra: Translation and Commentary" is a significant work by Red Pine (Bill Porter), a respected translator and scholar of Buddhist texts. Published in 2012, this book offers a comprehensive translation and commentary on the Lankavatara Sutra, a pivotal text in Mahayana Buddhism.

The Lankavatara Sutra is known for its profound teachings on the nature of reality, consciousness, and the path to enlightenment. It is highly revered within the Mahayana tradition, particularly in Zen and Chan Buddhism. "The Lankavatara Sutra: Translation and Commentary" is an essential resource for those interested in Mahayana Buddhism, as it sheds light on the intricate philosophical and spiritual dimensions of this tradition.

Red Pine's translation of the Lankavatara Sutra is acclaimed for its clarity and accessibility, making this profound text more approachable for modern readers. Additionally, his insightful commentary provides valuable context and explanations, helping readers delve into the deeper layers of the sutra's teachings.

Author: Red Pine (Bill Porter)

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Lankavatara-Sutra-Translation-Commentary/dp/1619020998/
Ratings: 4.6 out of 5 stars (from 203 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #96,734 in Books
#31 in Mystery Writing Reference
#63 in Zen Spirituality
#859 in Christian Self Help

"The Heart Sutra," also known as the "Heart of the Perfection of Wisdom Sutra," is a concise but profound text within Mahayana Buddhism. It holds a central place in the Prajnaparamita literature, which explores the concept of transcendent wisdom.

This sutra, with its brevity and depth, encapsulates the essence of Mahayana philosophy. It emphasizes the concept of "emptiness" (shunyata), which is central to Mahayana thought. The Heart Sutra teaches that all phenomena are devoid of inherent existence, challenging our conventional understanding of reality.

With its iconic mantra "Gate Gate Paragate Parasamgate Bodhi Svaha" (which can be translated as "Gone, Gone, Gone Beyond, Gone Completely Beyond, Enlightenment, Hail"), the sutra signifies the stages of spiritual awakening and the realization of ultimate truth.

The Heart Sutra has been widely studied, chanted, and revered by Mahayana Buddhists, particularly in Zen and other East Asian Buddhist traditions. Its profound teachings on emptiness, compassion, and the nature of reality continue to inspire practitioners on the path to enlightenment.

Author: Red Pine (Bill Porter)
Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Heart-Sutra-Red-Pine/dp/1593760825/

Ratings: 4.7 out of 5 stars (from 398 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #120,920 in Books
#9 in Hindu Sutras
#136 in Religious Philosophy (Books)
#138 in Philosophy Movements (Books)

"The Essence of Chan: A Guide to Life and Practice according to the Teachings of Bodhidharma" is a book by Guo Gu, a Chan (Zen) Buddhist teacher and scholar. Published in 2012, this book explores the teachings of Bodhidharma, a seminal figure in Zen Buddhism and Mahayana Buddhism as a whole.

Bodhidharma, traditionally regarded as the founder of Chan Buddhism, is celebrated for his emphasis on direct experience and the transmission of mind from teacher to student. Guo Gu delves into Bodhidharma's teachings, offering practical insights on meditation, mindfulness, and the path to awakening.

"The Essence of Chan" provides a contemporary perspective on the ancient wisdom of Bodhidharma, demonstrating its relevance in the modern world. Guo Gu's guidance is rooted in the Mahayana tradition, emphasizing the importance of cultivating wisdom and compassion as essential aspects of spiritual practice. This book is a valuable resource for those interested in Chan or Zen Buddhism and offers a bridge between Bodhidharma's teachings and the challenges and opportunities of contemporary life.

Author: Guo Gu

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Essence-Chan-according-Teachings-Bodhidharma/dp/1611808715/
Ratings: 4.6 out of 5 stars (from 182 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #144,804 in Books
#3 in Mahayana Buddhism
#80 in Buddhist Rituals & Practice (Books)
#96 in Zen Spirituality

"Awakening of the Heart: Essential Buddhist Sutras and Commentaries" is a comprehensive collection of key Mahayana Buddhist sutras and insightful commentaries compiled and translated by Thich Nhat Hanh, a prominent Vietnamese Zen Buddhist monk, and teacher. Published in 2012, this book offers a rich and accessible introduction to the Mahayana tradition.

The book includes translations of several significant Mahayana sutras, such as the Lotus Sutra, the Diamond Sutra, and the Heart Sutra. Thich Nhat Hanh's commentary provides a contemporary interpretation of these texts, emphasizing their relevance for modern practitioners.

"Awakening of the Heart" invites readers to explore Mahayana Buddhist teachings, which emphasize the universal potential for enlightenment and the importance of compassion for all beings. Thich Nhat Hanh's skillful translation and interpretation make these profound texts more accessible to a broad audience.

This book serves as a valuable resource for those interested in delving into the core teachings of Mahayana Buddhism, offering guidance and insights that facilitate a deeper understanding of this rich and compassionate spiritual tradition.

Author: Thich Nhat Hanh
Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Awakening-Heart-Essential-Buddhist-Commentaries/dp/1937006115/

Ratings: 4.9 out of 5 stars (from 303 reviews)
Best Sellers Rank: #205,928 in Books
#6 in Mahayana Buddhism
#60 in Buddhist Sacred Writings (Books)
#104 in Buddhist Rituals & Practice (Books)

"The Fundamental Wisdom of the Middle Way: Nāgārjuna's Mūlamadhyamakakārikā" is a seminal work by Nāgārjuna, a revered Indian Buddhist philosopher and a pivotal figure in Mahayana Buddhism. This text, composed in the 2nd century CE, is considered one of the most important in the Mahayana tradition.

In "The Fundamental Wisdom of the Middle Way," Nāgārjuna explores the concept of the "Middle Way" (Madhyamaka), which advocates a path between extremes and a profound understanding of the nature of reality. The text delves into the concept of "emptiness" (shunyata) and challenges inherent existence, presenting a profound philosophy that has influenced Mahayana thought for centuries.

"The Fundamental Wisdom of the Middle Way: Nāgārjuna's Mūlamadhyamakakārikā" has been studied and revered by scholars, practitioners, and teachers within the Mahayana tradition. It lays the foundation for the Madhyamaka school of thought and continues to inspire deep philosophical inquiry and contemplation within Mahayana Buddhism.

Author: Nāgārjuna

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Fundamental-Wisdom-Middle-Way-M%C5%ABlamadhyamakak%C4%81rik%C4%81/dp/0195093364/
Ratings: 4.6 out of 5 stars (from 219 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #222,778 in Books
#15 in Neuroscience (Books)
#281 in Philosophy (Books)

"Ocean of Nectar: The True Nature of Things" is a significant text within Mahayana Buddhism, authored by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, a Tibetan Buddhist monk and teacher. Published in 1995, this book explores key aspects of Mahayana philosophy and practice, particularly the profound teachings on emptiness (shunyata) and the nature of reality.

The title, "Ocean of Nectar," metaphorically represents the profound wisdom and insights contained within the text, likening them to an endless source of nourishment for the mind and spirit. In the Mahayana tradition, the understanding of emptiness is central to transcending suffering and attaining enlightenment.

Geshe Kelsang Gyatso's book presents these complex philosophical concepts in a clear and accessible manner, making them approachable for contemporary readers and practitioners. "Ocean of Nectar: The True Nature of Things" serves as a valuable resource for those interested in delving deeper into Mahayana Buddhist philosophy and meditation, providing a pathway to explore the transformative insights that lie at the heart of this tradition.

Author: Geshe Kelsang Gyatso

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Ocean-Nectar-True-Nature-Things/dp/1910368717/

Ratings: 4.9 out of 5 stars (from 31 reviews)
Best Sellers Rank: #234,519 in Books
#8 in Mahayana Buddhism
#71 in Buddhist Sacred Writings (Books)

"Essential Tibetan Buddhism," written by Robert A.F. Thurman, is a comprehensive introduction to the rich and profound tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, a major branch of Mahayana Buddhism. Published in 1995, this book serves as an invaluable guide for those interested in exploring the unique aspects of Tibetan Buddhism.

Thurman, a prominent scholar and Tibetan Buddhist practitioner, provides readers with insights into the history, philosophy, and practices of Tibetan Buddhism. He covers a wide range of topics, including the teachings of prominent Tibetan masters, the various Tibetan Buddhist schools (such as Gelug, Kagyu, and Nyingma), meditation practices, and the intricate symbolism found in Tibetan art and iconography.

One of the distinctive features of "Essential Tibetan Buddhism" is its integration of Vajrayana (Tantric) practices, and this book offers a clear explanation of these advanced spiritual techniques. Additionally, Thurman emphasizes the importance of compassion, wisdom, and the aspiration for enlightenment, which are fundamental to Mahayana Buddhism and central to the Tibetan Buddhist path.

Author: Robert A.F. Thurman
Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Essential-Tibetan-Buddhism-Robert-Thurman/dp/0062510517/
Ratings: 4.6 out of 5 stars (from 106 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #238,473 in Books
#9 in Mahayana Buddhism
#125 in Buddhist Rituals & Practice (Books)
#144 in Tibetan Buddhism (Books)

"The Lotus Sutra," often referred to as the "Saddharma Puṇḍarīka Sutra," is one of the most important and revered texts in Mahayana Buddhism. This profound scripture, composed between the 1st century BCE and the 1st century CE, holds a central place in the Mahayana tradition and has significantly influenced Buddhist thought and practice.

The Lotus Sutra is known for its teachings on the potential for Buddhahood within all beings and the concept of skillful means (upaya). It presents various parables and allegorical stories that convey profound spiritual truths and encourage practitioners to aspire to the highest levels of awakening.

The sutra emphasizes the universality of the Buddha's teachings, offering a vision of a single path to enlightenment accessible to all, regardless of their backgrounds or circumstances. It inspires a deep commitment to compassion and wisdom as essential qualities on the spiritual journey. "The Lotus Sutra" has been revered and studied by Mahayana Buddhists across different cultures, including East Asian Pure Land Buddhism and Nichiren Buddhism.

Author: Composed by the Buddha’s disciples

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Lotus-Sutra-Burton-Watson/dp/0231081618/

Ratings: 4.7 out of 5 stars (from 178 reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #321,080 in Books

#945 in Buddhism (Books)