One Hand Clapping: Zen Stories for All Ages

When is a tiger not a tiger?
When is a mountain more than a mountain?
What is the sound of one hand clapping?

The stories of this collection come from the Zen Buddhist tradition-- from tales told by the Buddha himself to anecdotes from the lives of the Zen masters of China and Japan who helped pass on the Buddha's teachings. These stories reflect the wisdom, directness, and spontaneity of which Zen is known.

Zen stories delight as they challenge, enchant as they point towards a different way of seeing things. In the simple language of stories passed down over hundreds of years, this collection can point us toward our own natural Mind of wisdom, insight, peace, and compassion. They help us see past our seeming differences into what is the same for all of us.

Rafe Martin, a student of Zen for over 25 years, introduces these tales, providing both background and insight into the collection. Junko Morimoto's beautiful illustrations reflect the tranquility, wit, and power of these stories.