We listened to the audiobook. Very good. I learned a lot about the Dalai Lama's perspective on the similarities and differences between Christianity and Buddhism. The long intro and the after material are also good.

i picked up this book with no expectations

gets very interesting in the middle

might be useful for a student of comparative theology and religion

An intelligent and spirited debate, that respects both Buddhism and Christianity while being steadfast and honest about their differences.

A perfect model of interfaith communication, something that is desperately needed.

This was a comfortable read, and really just made me realize how much I enjoy reading about religion. Not because I am religious myself, but because there is something comforting reading about individuals at such peace in their beliefs.

This book made me wish for more tolerance between religions, and even hopeful that this could be possible, based on this inclusive and open-minded gathering of buddhists and Christians.

This book is essentially a documentation of a seminar featuring the Dalai Lama, who reflected on a series of bible passages or key themes in the Christian belief and compared them to the Buddhist belief. I found it to be an interesting read, but I realized while I read how lacking my knowledge of Buddhism really is.

I would recommend to those looking for an open-minded religious read, particularly as it relates to inclusiveness for all religions. I would especially recommend a solid background in BOTH Christian and Buddhist beliefs, NOT just one of the other. I think you'd take more away from this short read.

I gave this book 2 stars because I wanted more from it. This book is basically the transcript of the John Main Seminar in 1994 when the Dalai Lama attended and commented on select Gospel passages in conversation with other seminar participants. The book also includes an extensive a introduction, glossary, and two sections giving background on Buddhism and Christianity. Because this book is based on an event where meditation was a key part I think the book can only communicate so much. It intrigued me and made me want to read more by the Dalai Lama but I would not recommend this for others.

I was a little disappointed with this book. I was hoping for some creative readings of the Gospel texts in question, but all too often (and understandably so) the reflections were simply pointing out similar ideas in Buddhist writings. The most helpful take always for me were the discussions on the possibilities and limitations of interfaith dialogue.

I felt that I gained some understanding of Buddhism seeing 5 readings from the Gospels being experienced by the Dalai Lama. Much of the book was basically a transcript of a seminar. I believe that actually being present at the seminar would have been much more enlightening. I think it is impossible to get the dynamic of spiritual connection that would have happened with these diverse people meditating together in silence and then listening deeply. Reading what was said was pretty much a let down for me. This is one of those things that I think you really had to be there to get it.