A simple story can breathe life into information people want to share with each other. As millions of story lovers all over the world already know, there is no substitute for the power, simplicity, and basic truth of the well-told story.
In Endless Path—Rafe Martin’s new collection of Jataka tales (stories of the Buddha’s past lives) told with a Zen twist—the highly acclaimed author, storyteller, and ordained Zen practitioner weaves together story, myth, and meaning to reveal the practical power of imagination in spiritual development and everyday life. According to Martin, “stories are an important part of who we are, and Buddhist tradition draws deeply on the power of the creative imagination.”
Martin will be a featured teller at this year’s National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough Tennessee, where he will be presenting several tales from Endless Path. Martin will also be available to chat with attendees and sign books from 3pm to 3:45pm on Saturday, October 2nd. For an official festival schedule, CLICK HERE.
To get a taste of Rafe Martin’s captivating storytelling style, you can tune into his recent dharma talk from Village Zendo in New York City where he presented the tenth and final chapter of Endless Path—“The Sage Little Bowman Jataka.”
CLICK HERE to read a recent article by Martin describing “Gabyo,” Zen Master Dogen’s “Painting of a Rice Cake,” and learn more about the Sweetcake Enso traveling art show.
Recent praise for Endless Path:
“Endless Path is a gem. Martin’s enthusiasm for the jatakas leaps off each page, bringing the reader into a realm where the deepest truths are revealed by even the most humble creatures. This book should be required reading for all Buddhist practitioners—actually, for everyone!”
—Sunyana Graef Sensei, Zen teacher and spiritual director of the Vermont Zen Center
“Oh, such stories and commentaries! They stand side by side with the koans, the words and doings of the Zen masters of old and new, and together with them help us rise above narrowness and know a life of greater selflessness and affection, bringing peace to ourselves and the world. Svaha! Nine bows to Rafe Martin.”
—Danan Henry Roshi, founder and spiritual director of the Zen Center of Denver
“Endless Path is a treasure for all seekers of the Way! Rafe Martin relates wondrous ancient Buddha stories and then unravels them, delivering meaning for today’s Western lay practitioners. A much-needed integration of the awesome past and our perplexing present. And a delightful read.”
—Roshi Pat Enkyo O’Hara, abbot of The Village Zendo, guiding spiritual teacher for the New York Center for Contemplative Care, and co-spiritual director of the Zen Peacemaker Family
CLICK HERE to learn more about Endless Path: Awakening Within the Buddhist Imagination: Jataka Tales, Zen Practice, and Daily Life, written by Rafe Martin, illustrated by Richard Wehrman.
