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The Dharma of Star Wars
Is Yoda a Zen Master? What might Jedi training be like? Is the story of Luke Skywalker a spiritual epic?
The answers--as well as excitement, adventure, and a lot of fun--are here!
The Dharma of Star Wars uses George Lucas' beloved modern saga and the universal discoveries of the Buddha to illuminate each other in playful and unexpectedly rewarding ways. Bortolin even reveals satisfying depths to the second trilogy of movies-the ones that met with what can understatedly be called a less-than-warm critical reception. The Dharma of Star Wars gives you an inpsiring and totally new take on this timeless saga, from A New Hope all the way up to 2005's Revenge of the Sith. Great fun for any Star Wars fan. Imagine The Power of Myth... with lightsabers!
Includes instruction in The Jedi Art of Mindfulness and Concentration and The Padawan Handbook: Zen Contemplations for the Would-Be Jedi.
Fun for all ages, The Dharma of Star Wars is also a perfect way for Buddhist parents to bridge the generation gap.
The answers--as well as excitement, adventure, and a lot of fun--are here!
The Dharma of Star Wars uses George Lucas' beloved modern saga and the universal discoveries of the Buddha to illuminate each other in playful and unexpectedly rewarding ways. Bortolin even reveals satisfying depths to the second trilogy of movies-the ones that met with what can understatedly be called a less-than-warm critical reception. The Dharma of Star Wars gives you an inpsiring and totally new take on this timeless saga, from A New Hope all the way up to 2005's Revenge of the Sith. Great fun for any Star Wars fan. Imagine The Power of Myth... with lightsabers!
Includes instruction in The Jedi Art of Mindfulness and Concentration and The Padawan Handbook: Zen Contemplations for the Would-Be Jedi.
Fun for all ages, The Dharma of Star Wars is also a perfect way for Buddhist parents to bridge the generation gap.
224 pages, Paperback
First published April 15, 2005
107 people are currently reading
771 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
July 20, 2015
Star Wars fans who are interested in Buddhism this is the book for you. People who are not very familiar with the Star Wars sage may feel lost at many of the movie references. For fans this is a great basic look at this easy enjoy;e way of looking at life and it's focuses.
Yoda, my favorite movie character of all time was a master of more then the Force, he was a brilliant Buddhist. He most famous lines reflect ancient wise words from the Buddha Many of the other "good" characters had their moments as well, it wasn't all Yoda. They blending of the movie and wisdom blend nicely and make it easy to follow and absorb the teachings offered.
I do plan of buying it for a couple of my Star Wars loving friends. I loved it and hope many more find it.
Yoda, my favorite movie character of all time was a master of more then the Force, he was a brilliant Buddhist. He most famous lines reflect ancient wise words from the Buddha Many of the other "good" characters had their moments as well, it wasn't all Yoda. They blending of the movie and wisdom blend nicely and make it easy to follow and absorb the teachings offered.
I do plan of buying it for a couple of my Star Wars loving friends. I loved it and hope many more find it.
June 1, 2015
This is not a fluffy book looking to capitalize on the tendency of Star Wars fans to buy anything with their favorite 'verse in the title. Matthew Bortolin, a lifelong enthusiast of that franchise from "a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away," is also an ordained member of Thich Nhat Hanh's Buddhist community who has lived in Buddhist monasteries both in the United States and abroad. His insights on both Buddhism and Star Wars are serious indeed, if laced with charming humor, wonderfully thought-provoking and challenging.
As someone relatively new to Buddhist thought and not new at all to Star Wars, I found much to appreciate here. The book is divided into two parts. The first includes "The Jedi Art of Mindfulness and Concentration," "The Dark Side Within," "Ignorance: The Shroud of the Dark Side," "Anakin, Leia, and the Five Aggregates of Self," "Escaping Tatooine and the Cause of Suffering," "Knowing the Good Side from the Dark Side," "Darth Vader's Karma," "Nirvana and the Way of the Force," "The Eightfold Path that Transcends the Dark Side," "Luke Skywalker's Practice of Wisdom," and "Transforming Our Jar Jar Nature." The second, much briefer part includes "The Padawan Handbook: Zen Contemplations for the Would-Be Jedi" and an afterword on "The Jedi and Violence."
In particular, I found Bortolin's distinction between mindfulness (think of Qui-Gon embracing of the Living Force) and concentration (think of Yoda embracing of the Unifying Force) helpful and enlightening, and his exploration of Luke's ultimate wisdom in expressing compassion toward Anakin/Vader (as opposed to Obi-Wan's insistence that Vader must be destroyed as something no longer human) powerful. Bortolin's extended discussions of suffering and emptiness are effective for someone new to Buddhism, and the attention he gives to reconciling the visions of the first and second trilogies - and especially to the thought and practices of the somewhat rogue (or is that knight errant?) Jedi Qui-Gon Jinn, an unusual and outstanding teacher - satisfying. Bortolin does not make the argument - except, perhaps, by implication - that the creators of Star Wars intentionally imbedded these Buddhist messages in their stories, but the resonances are truly compelling.
I recommend this to readers interested in either Buddhism or Star Wars, and I would gladly read more of Bortolin's work.
As someone relatively new to Buddhist thought and not new at all to Star Wars, I found much to appreciate here. The book is divided into two parts. The first includes "The Jedi Art of Mindfulness and Concentration," "The Dark Side Within," "Ignorance: The Shroud of the Dark Side," "Anakin, Leia, and the Five Aggregates of Self," "Escaping Tatooine and the Cause of Suffering," "Knowing the Good Side from the Dark Side," "Darth Vader's Karma," "Nirvana and the Way of the Force," "The Eightfold Path that Transcends the Dark Side," "Luke Skywalker's Practice of Wisdom," and "Transforming Our Jar Jar Nature." The second, much briefer part includes "The Padawan Handbook: Zen Contemplations for the Would-Be Jedi" and an afterword on "The Jedi and Violence."
In particular, I found Bortolin's distinction between mindfulness (think of Qui-Gon embracing of the Living Force) and concentration (think of Yoda embracing of the Unifying Force) helpful and enlightening, and his exploration of Luke's ultimate wisdom in expressing compassion toward Anakin/Vader (as opposed to Obi-Wan's insistence that Vader must be destroyed as something no longer human) powerful. Bortolin's extended discussions of suffering and emptiness are effective for someone new to Buddhism, and the attention he gives to reconciling the visions of the first and second trilogies - and especially to the thought and practices of the somewhat rogue (or is that knight errant?) Jedi Qui-Gon Jinn, an unusual and outstanding teacher - satisfying. Bortolin does not make the argument - except, perhaps, by implication - that the creators of Star Wars intentionally imbedded these Buddhist messages in their stories, but the resonances are truly compelling.
I recommend this to readers interested in either Buddhism or Star Wars, and I would gladly read more of Bortolin's work.
April 22, 2013
A humorous if light Buddhist interpretation of the Star Wars saga. Some of his examples of dharma in the Star Wars universe are a bit of a stretch, and the prose really needed a better copy-editor, but I found it a fun, enjoyable read.
March 3, 2011
A very cute book that introduces Buddhism by way of analogies from the Star Wars films. I was impressed, sometimes even amazed, with how well this book explained Buddhism. I expected the Star Wars perspective would make this book cheesy, but although it was definitely silly and fun, it turned out to be quite a thorough and articulate overview of the basics of Buddhism. This book belongs on the same bookshelf as . It seems there's a sort of blossoming subgenre of books that explain philosophical ideas through popular culture references, of which I'm becoming quite a fan.
This book doesn't claim that Star Wars is somehow a Buddhist movie. After all, there are also books like . Star Wars is just rife with so much mythology and symbolism, so its popularity makes it a perfect way to demonstrate many philosophical and spiritual ideas. The Jedi aren't exactly Buddhists, and this book also discusses the ways they differ, but I was surprised by how much they did reflect Buddhist concepts, particularly mindfulness and the nature of suffering.
Oh, and yes, this book does include all six movies, and treats them equally, even those hated by Star Wars fans. It also has a chapter on Jar Jar. I actually loved that chapter. Jar Jar was used to demonstrate what meditators call the "monkey mind," the unfocused and erratic nature of the untrained mind.
If you like Star Wars, especially if you're a fan, and you're curious to learn what Buddhism is all about, I would HIGHLY recommend this book.
This book doesn't claim that Star Wars is somehow a Buddhist movie. After all, there are also books like . Star Wars is just rife with so much mythology and symbolism, so its popularity makes it a perfect way to demonstrate many philosophical and spiritual ideas. The Jedi aren't exactly Buddhists, and this book also discusses the ways they differ, but I was surprised by how much they did reflect Buddhist concepts, particularly mindfulness and the nature of suffering.
Oh, and yes, this book does include all six movies, and treats them equally, even those hated by Star Wars fans. It also has a chapter on Jar Jar. I actually loved that chapter. Jar Jar was used to demonstrate what meditators call the "monkey mind," the unfocused and erratic nature of the untrained mind.
If you like Star Wars, especially if you're a fan, and you're curious to learn what Buddhism is all about, I would HIGHLY recommend this book.
December 5, 2007
It's Buddhism-lite plus Star Wars! What's not to like?
Seriously, though, it's essentially an introduction to some of the fundamental tenets of Buddhism, with all the generic examples ("a man walks down a path...") replaced with Star Wars imagery ("Darth Vader walks down the corridor to his command chamber..."). If you're interested in how Buddhism influenced George Lucas and the other creators of Star Wars in crafting their mythos, look elsewhere. If, on the other hand, you're interested in Buddhism and would like it explained to you in easy-to-digest, uber-nerdy chunklets, hey, this is the book for you!
Seriously, though, it's essentially an introduction to some of the fundamental tenets of Buddhism, with all the generic examples ("a man walks down a path...") replaced with Star Wars imagery ("Darth Vader walks down the corridor to his command chamber..."). If you're interested in how Buddhism influenced George Lucas and the other creators of Star Wars in crafting their mythos, look elsewhere. If, on the other hand, you're interested in Buddhism and would like it explained to you in easy-to-digest, uber-nerdy chunklets, hey, this is the book for you!
May 25, 2017
There's a lot of Buddhism in Star Wars if you choose to see it. And to be fair, the author does do a good job of illustrating it.
But then he spoils it all by trying to squeeze Star Wars references into every paragraph, whether they're needed or not. So he doesn't just talk about a tree, it has to be a tree like the ones on Endor. And when you're in a hurry, you're rushing home to watch a Star Wars marathon on DVD. It soon becomes tiresome and distracts from what could otherwise have been a good book.
But then he spoils it all by trying to squeeze Star Wars references into every paragraph, whether they're needed or not. So he doesn't just talk about a tree, it has to be a tree like the ones on Endor. And when you're in a hurry, you're rushing home to watch a Star Wars marathon on DVD. It soon becomes tiresome and distracts from what could otherwise have been a good book.
May 13, 2020
I really enjoyed this reading.
First warning:
*You must like the SW series and had seen the first 6 movies carefully*.
Second warning:
*You need to be “interest� or “curious� about Buddhism ☸️ �.
This book embrace all the Jedi teachings and explains its Buddhism roots. You might be surprised in how many wonderful things George Lucas based this saga in this ancient tradition. This books doesn’t try to change your beliefs and make yourself a Buddhist follower but it dives real deep in this knowledge.
First warning:
*You must like the SW series and had seen the first 6 movies carefully*.
Second warning:
*You need to be “interest� or “curious� about Buddhism ☸️ �.
This book embrace all the Jedi teachings and explains its Buddhism roots. You might be surprised in how many wonderful things George Lucas based this saga in this ancient tradition. This books doesn’t try to change your beliefs and make yourself a Buddhist follower but it dives real deep in this knowledge.
February 21, 2017
This is a fun book that points out many similarities between the Jedi way in Star Wars and Buddhism. Many of the examples are spot on, and this book does provide an easily understood, somewhat simplistic overview of Buddhism. That said, some of the analogies are a bit of a stretch and the author goes too far with many frivolous references to the greater Star Wars universe. Overall, a short, worthwhile, entertaining read.
May 21, 2012
Excellent analysis comparing Buddhism with the story of Star Wars. Excellent book to better understand the story of Star Wars and to better understand the philosophy of Buddhism.
January 13, 2020
I really enjoyed this book and I'm glad I bought it. Exploring the principles of Buddhism through the lens of Star Wars is, frankly, much more interesting than the subject would be otherwise. And that subject is very useful and worth learning about! I really appreciate the non-religious point of view from which the author teaches, as well. These are principles that anyone can apply to their life, and right away, without being encumbered by religious dogma. In fact, the author specifically discourages being tied down by such things. I definitely want to read the author's next book, The Zen of R2-D2, sometime!
August 26, 2023
A study of Buddhism through a Star Wars lens. This is not new information for anyone who knows about Buddhism but it is uniquely presented and if you are a huge Star Wars nerd and would like to learn about Buddhism I cannot think of a better book for you.
I enjoyed it and it helped me refocus on some things I had neglected. I took off one star because some of the analogies were a bit clunky but overall a fine fine book.
I enjoyed it and it helped me refocus on some things I had neglected. I took off one star because some of the analogies were a bit clunky but overall a fine fine book.
March 17, 2024
I quite enjoyed this book. I found some chapters more illuminating than others, and overall I think this book serves as a good introduction for Star Wars fans who are interested in pursuing or learning more about Buddhism. This book doesn't get into the nitty gritty details of Buddhism (for example, Bortolin never quite describes which branch of Buddhism he is speaking from, you have to figure that information out yourself in the "About the Author" section), but the parallels to Star Wars make the concepts much more accessible than perhaps another book would. Overall, I'd give this a 3.5/5.
May 25, 2019
If you love star wars and love mindfulness then read this !
November 15, 2017
This is a great way to introduce basic Buddhist concepts to any Star Wars fans. So it's a pretty specific target audience.
June 22, 2022
It could be a little cheesy but I absolutely loved it.
June 4, 2024
THE BOOK USES THE STAR WARS SAGA TO ILLUSTRATE BUDDHA’S TEACHINGS
Author Matthew Bordolin wrote in the Prologue to this 2005 book, “The Star Wars saga is a story of human beings and other creatures grappling with issues of freedom, hate, love, power, and suffering. It is an exploration of the human condition writ large across a tale of galactic war, despair and hope, good and evil, and the struggle for peace. Star Wars is not a Buddhist epic. And yet because the Star Wars saga addresses so much of what it means to be human it can appropriately be applied to the Buddha’s teachings, and the Buddha’s teachings can effectively be used to illuminate our understanding of the character and themes in Star Wars. The Dharma of Star Wars is an exploration of the deepest universal themes in the Star Wars saga, using Buddhist teachings to investigate them; simultaneously, it is also an introduction to the teachings of the Buddha, using Star Wars as a doorway to the teachings of the Buddha.�
He notes, “It is difficult to be mindful because many of us have lived unmindfully for years and even decades. Yoda’s words about Luke � can easily be applied to us: ‘Never his mind on where he was. What he was doing.� Likewise, our minds are rarely in touch with where we are and with what we are doing. And in this way we have accumulated many years of living without mindfulness---doing one thing mechanically while thinking about another---and this habit of living distractedly has become ingrained in us.� (Pg. 10)
He observes, “The simple fact is that suffering is a part of life. To understand this better we can examine suffering in several different forms. One form is ordinary suffering. This is the pain that one typically associates with the body---birth, sickness, physical injuries, bodily pain, and the like� A second form of suffering is that associated with change. Like is perpetually changing. Because of this we are constantly gaining and losing things that bring us happiness� Another form of suffering can be described as frustration. When we are forced to be in a situation we do not like or is we cannot do what we would like to do, we may become frustrated.� (Pg. 16-17)
He continues, “The dark side is all the suffering in life� By going into the dark cave Luke is penetrating his own nature on a quest to recognize himself and his suffering� Out of the musty gloom of the cave’s interior Darth Vader seems to appear. Luke� defeats the Dark Lord of the Sith� Yet despite this apparent victory Yoda later calls Luke’s experience in the cave a failure. Luke fails because he fails to recognize that the supposed source of his suffering---Darth Vader---is in fact himself.� (Pg. 24-25)
He explains, “Qui-Gon instructs Obi-Wan � to ‘be mindful of the living Force.� For us to begin to undo the deception caused by misperceptions it is important to hone our mindfulness and concentration as Qui-Gon instructs. We can interpret Qui-Gon’s directive in this way: Be mindful of life in every moment, with every action� We treat each moment with attention and respect even if we are doing something we have done a thousand times before or something we might not necessarily choose to do. This is a practice designed to help us not take anything for granted, to be in contact with ‘the living Force� of life at this moment, and to not be fooled by our misperceptions.� (Pg. 61-62)
He suggests, “Thinking can be ‘good� or ‘bad� as well. Planning to kill your father is ‘bad� karma. Thinking about murdering your father for a second but then dismissing the thought is ‘good� karma. When we anguish over a ‘bad� action or thought from our past we may be experiencing karmic fruit of the regret variety� Dwelling on our regret and treating ourselves callously for our unskillful past can create a guilt complex that will perpetuate the stream of ‘bad� karma in our life. However, regret that is investigated with Yoda’s method of calm reflection can offer insight that leads to ‘good� karmic results.� (Pg. 113-114)
He states, “By reflecting on the Force we can learn more about nirvana� We may mistakenly imagine the Force as some sort of invisible river of magical energy or an intangible well of mystical power that can be accessed and manipulated. This perception sets up the Force as distinct from us, a tool used by a Jedi or Sith to compel others or to batter foes. But if we listen deeply to what Obi-Wan and Yoda say we see that the Force, like nirvana, is not separate from us, it is a part of us---surrounding, penetrating, and binding us with it and the galaxy.� (Pg. 125)
He says, “If we don’t learn to stop ourselves and leg to of unwholesome ways of living, the cycle of samsara will continue to dominate our destiny. It is common to think that nirvana and samsara are opposites� However, like the dual aspects of the Force, nirvana and samsara interpenetrate each other. Nirvana is itself the ground of being, and thus it is the totality of everything else, including samsara. Look for the truth of this in your own life.� (Pg. 131)
He argues, “Luke’s actions show us that ultimately the good side of the Force is stronger than the dark side. The good side is stronger because it INCLUDES the dark side. Without suffering there can be no wisdom. When we suffer well� we learn from it. Suffering is a good thing. Let me repeat that: the dark side, suffering, is a good thing. It is good because it gives us something to work with, something to investigate� And this is necessary to transcend the dark side.� (Pg. 152-153)
He admits, “As a person looking at Star Wars from a Buddhist perspective, I would be remiss were I not to address the issue of violence in those movies. The Buddha’s teachings are explicitly nonviolent� Can [acts of violence] ever be motivated by compassion? The traditional Buddhist answer is an unequivocal ‘No,� and I don’t recommend anyone pursue any path of violence---yet I think there is something important to be learned about ourselves and the nature of violence by looking at the way violence is used by the Jedi Knights. Can we accept the wise and venerable Jedi� as beings of understanding and love they use their powers to destroy others caught in the web of ignorance and suffering?� (Pg. 190)
This book will be of great interest to those Star Wars fans looking to pursue a spiritual path allied with the Star Wars mythology.
Author Matthew Bordolin wrote in the Prologue to this 2005 book, “The Star Wars saga is a story of human beings and other creatures grappling with issues of freedom, hate, love, power, and suffering. It is an exploration of the human condition writ large across a tale of galactic war, despair and hope, good and evil, and the struggle for peace. Star Wars is not a Buddhist epic. And yet because the Star Wars saga addresses so much of what it means to be human it can appropriately be applied to the Buddha’s teachings, and the Buddha’s teachings can effectively be used to illuminate our understanding of the character and themes in Star Wars. The Dharma of Star Wars is an exploration of the deepest universal themes in the Star Wars saga, using Buddhist teachings to investigate them; simultaneously, it is also an introduction to the teachings of the Buddha, using Star Wars as a doorway to the teachings of the Buddha.�
He notes, “It is difficult to be mindful because many of us have lived unmindfully for years and even decades. Yoda’s words about Luke � can easily be applied to us: ‘Never his mind on where he was. What he was doing.� Likewise, our minds are rarely in touch with where we are and with what we are doing. And in this way we have accumulated many years of living without mindfulness---doing one thing mechanically while thinking about another---and this habit of living distractedly has become ingrained in us.� (Pg. 10)
He observes, “The simple fact is that suffering is a part of life. To understand this better we can examine suffering in several different forms. One form is ordinary suffering. This is the pain that one typically associates with the body---birth, sickness, physical injuries, bodily pain, and the like� A second form of suffering is that associated with change. Like is perpetually changing. Because of this we are constantly gaining and losing things that bring us happiness� Another form of suffering can be described as frustration. When we are forced to be in a situation we do not like or is we cannot do what we would like to do, we may become frustrated.� (Pg. 16-17)
He continues, “The dark side is all the suffering in life� By going into the dark cave Luke is penetrating his own nature on a quest to recognize himself and his suffering� Out of the musty gloom of the cave’s interior Darth Vader seems to appear. Luke� defeats the Dark Lord of the Sith� Yet despite this apparent victory Yoda later calls Luke’s experience in the cave a failure. Luke fails because he fails to recognize that the supposed source of his suffering---Darth Vader---is in fact himself.� (Pg. 24-25)
He explains, “Qui-Gon instructs Obi-Wan � to ‘be mindful of the living Force.� For us to begin to undo the deception caused by misperceptions it is important to hone our mindfulness and concentration as Qui-Gon instructs. We can interpret Qui-Gon’s directive in this way: Be mindful of life in every moment, with every action� We treat each moment with attention and respect even if we are doing something we have done a thousand times before or something we might not necessarily choose to do. This is a practice designed to help us not take anything for granted, to be in contact with ‘the living Force� of life at this moment, and to not be fooled by our misperceptions.� (Pg. 61-62)
He suggests, “Thinking can be ‘good� or ‘bad� as well. Planning to kill your father is ‘bad� karma. Thinking about murdering your father for a second but then dismissing the thought is ‘good� karma. When we anguish over a ‘bad� action or thought from our past we may be experiencing karmic fruit of the regret variety� Dwelling on our regret and treating ourselves callously for our unskillful past can create a guilt complex that will perpetuate the stream of ‘bad� karma in our life. However, regret that is investigated with Yoda’s method of calm reflection can offer insight that leads to ‘good� karmic results.� (Pg. 113-114)
He states, “By reflecting on the Force we can learn more about nirvana� We may mistakenly imagine the Force as some sort of invisible river of magical energy or an intangible well of mystical power that can be accessed and manipulated. This perception sets up the Force as distinct from us, a tool used by a Jedi or Sith to compel others or to batter foes. But if we listen deeply to what Obi-Wan and Yoda say we see that the Force, like nirvana, is not separate from us, it is a part of us---surrounding, penetrating, and binding us with it and the galaxy.� (Pg. 125)
He says, “If we don’t learn to stop ourselves and leg to of unwholesome ways of living, the cycle of samsara will continue to dominate our destiny. It is common to think that nirvana and samsara are opposites� However, like the dual aspects of the Force, nirvana and samsara interpenetrate each other. Nirvana is itself the ground of being, and thus it is the totality of everything else, including samsara. Look for the truth of this in your own life.� (Pg. 131)
He argues, “Luke’s actions show us that ultimately the good side of the Force is stronger than the dark side. The good side is stronger because it INCLUDES the dark side. Without suffering there can be no wisdom. When we suffer well� we learn from it. Suffering is a good thing. Let me repeat that: the dark side, suffering, is a good thing. It is good because it gives us something to work with, something to investigate� And this is necessary to transcend the dark side.� (Pg. 152-153)
He admits, “As a person looking at Star Wars from a Buddhist perspective, I would be remiss were I not to address the issue of violence in those movies. The Buddha’s teachings are explicitly nonviolent� Can [acts of violence] ever be motivated by compassion? The traditional Buddhist answer is an unequivocal ‘No,� and I don’t recommend anyone pursue any path of violence---yet I think there is something important to be learned about ourselves and the nature of violence by looking at the way violence is used by the Jedi Knights. Can we accept the wise and venerable Jedi� as beings of understanding and love they use their powers to destroy others caught in the web of ignorance and suffering?� (Pg. 190)
This book will be of great interest to those Star Wars fans looking to pursue a spiritual path allied with the Star Wars mythology.
May 2, 2019
I feel it was an OK book for a very high level and user friendly description of some Buddhist principles. Compared to the "value" I found it too long and repeating the same ideas over and over. Also although I consider myself a star wars fan sometimes I found the continuous references annoying (especially in cases where it didn't really add anything). I was missing more context and references on the "Buddhist" side. Of course I truly appreciate the effort which was put into the book and I believe if it even made 1 person to think it is already great.
September 26, 2007
Very clever and enjoyable
October 25, 2008
Clearest expression of Buddhism I've ever read. If you are a Star Wars fan and have ever wanted to understand Buddhism, this is your book.
February 25, 2010
A fantastic book that connects the dots between Star Wars and Buddhism. The book is an... enlightening... read ;-) Doesn't take itself overly serious, but does
February 22, 2011
Well, it's a book that merges Star Wars and Buddhism. So if you're into that, as I am or I would never have checked this book out, then go ahead.
June 18, 2025
Belső utazás a messzi-messzi galaxisban
Amikor először megláttam a The Dharma of Star Wars borítóját � egy fénykardot egy zen ensō (a teljességet és ürességet szimbolizáló, ecsettel festett kör) belsejében �, azonnal magával ragadott. Sokan, akik a klasszikus trilógián nőttünk fel, ösztönösen éreztük, hogy a Star Wars több mint űropera lézerpuskákkal és szőrös másodpilótákkal. Az Erő, a Jedi lovagok kódexe és Yoda bölcsességei egyfajta modern mitológiaként, spirituális útmutatóként működtek. Bortolin pontosan ezt az érzést veszi komolyan, és könyvével új szintre emeli a gyermekkori (és felnőttkori) rajongást.
A szerző, aki fanatikus Star Wars-rajongó és elkötelezett buddhista gyakorló, nem kevesebbre vállalkozik, mint hogy párhuzamot vonjon George Lucas univerzuma és a buddhista tanítások (a Dharma) között. Az eredmény egy meglepően mély, gondolatébresztő és végtelenül szórakoztató olvasmány, amelyben a modern mítosz és Buddha ősi szavai világítják meg egymást.
A könyv zsenialitása abban rejlik, hogy nem azt állítja, Lucas titokban buddhista szövegeket másolt volna. Helyette azokra az univerzális igazságokra mutat rá, amelyek mindkét rendszerben fellelhetők. A bonyolult keleti filozófiai koncepciókat a Star Wars jól ismert jelenetein keresztül teszi közérthetővé. A Star Wars így szinte a buddhizmus kapudrogjává válik: egy izgalmas kalandon keresztül teszi emészthetővé és vonzóvá a mély filozófiai tanokat, ahelyett, hogy száraz vallásbölcseleti értekezés lenne.
A Jedi-tudatosság és a mindfulness (tudatos jelenlét) közötti párhuzam például egyértelmű. Amikor Luke kikapcsolja a célzókomputert a Halálcsillag elleni támadásnál, az az elengedés, az ösztönös cselekvés és a tudatos én háttérbe szorításának tökéletes zen pillanata. Yoda mester örök érvényű mondatai pedig új megvilágításba kerülnek: a „Tedd, vagy ne tedd! De ne próbáld!� nemcsak egy szállóige, hanem a jelen pillanat teljes megélésének bölcsessége a célok görcsös hajszolása helyett.
A könyv egyik sarokköve Yoda híres figyelmeztetése: „A félelem dühöt szül. A düh gyűlöletet. A gyűlölet szenvedést.� Bortolin Anakin tragikus spirálján keresztül mutatja be, hogyan működik ez a láncolat a gyakorlatban. Rámutat, hogy a sötét oldal nem egy külső ellenség, hanem a mindannyiunkban ott rejlő félelem és harag. A szenvedés buddhista értelmezése szerint pedig nem maga a fájdalom, hanem a hozzá való görcsös ragaszkodásunk.
A legmélyebb fejezetek egyike a dolgok kölcsönös függőségét vizsgálja. Kibontja, hogy R2-D2 fontossága hogyan függ össze a galaxis számtalan más eseményével és szereplőjével, a bothai kémektől kezdve egészen Padmé és Anakin találkozásáig. Ez a példa tökéletesen illusztrálja a buddhista „Indra hálója� metaforát, mely szerint semmi sem létezik önmagában, minden mindennel összefügg � pont ahogy az Erő is „körülvesz és áthatol rajtunk, és összetartja a galaxist�.
Még a sokat kritizált Jar Jar Binks is értelmet nyer: ő a „majom-elme� (monkey mind), az elménk csapongó, idegesítő része, amely meditáció közben eltereli a figyelmünket. A könyv tanácsa pedig nem a küzdelem, hanem az elfogadás. Ez a megközelítés nemcsak a gungant teszi szerethetőbbé, de egy mélyen bölcs életszemléletet is tükröz.
A „messzi-messzi galaxis� történetei valójában a mi belső küzdelmeinkről, félelmeinkről és a felszabadulás lehetőségéről szólnak. Bortolin bebizonyítja, hogy Yoda nemcsak egy fordított szórendben beszélő, néha idegesítő zöld lény, hanem egy igazi zen mester, a Jedi útja pedig az önismeret ösvénye.
Stílusa könnyed és tele van rajongói lelkesedéssel, így a könyv minden Star Wars-rajongónak ajánlott, aki szeretne új értelmezési réteget adni a kedvenc filmjeinek. Aki pedig elég nyitott, az nemcsak a Star Warst, de talán saját magát is jobban megérti általa. Hiszen a végső üzenet ez: a bölcsesség nemcsak ősi tekercseken található, hanem ott van a kedvenc történeteinkben is.
Az Erő � és a Dharma � legyen veled. Mindig.
Amikor először megláttam a The Dharma of Star Wars borítóját � egy fénykardot egy zen ensō (a teljességet és ürességet szimbolizáló, ecsettel festett kör) belsejében �, azonnal magával ragadott. Sokan, akik a klasszikus trilógián nőttünk fel, ösztönösen éreztük, hogy a Star Wars több mint űropera lézerpuskákkal és szőrös másodpilótákkal. Az Erő, a Jedi lovagok kódexe és Yoda bölcsességei egyfajta modern mitológiaként, spirituális útmutatóként működtek. Bortolin pontosan ezt az érzést veszi komolyan, és könyvével új szintre emeli a gyermekkori (és felnőttkori) rajongást.
A szerző, aki fanatikus Star Wars-rajongó és elkötelezett buddhista gyakorló, nem kevesebbre vállalkozik, mint hogy párhuzamot vonjon George Lucas univerzuma és a buddhista tanítások (a Dharma) között. Az eredmény egy meglepően mély, gondolatébresztő és végtelenül szórakoztató olvasmány, amelyben a modern mítosz és Buddha ősi szavai világítják meg egymást.
A könyv zsenialitása abban rejlik, hogy nem azt állítja, Lucas titokban buddhista szövegeket másolt volna. Helyette azokra az univerzális igazságokra mutat rá, amelyek mindkét rendszerben fellelhetők. A bonyolult keleti filozófiai koncepciókat a Star Wars jól ismert jelenetein keresztül teszi közérthetővé. A Star Wars így szinte a buddhizmus kapudrogjává válik: egy izgalmas kalandon keresztül teszi emészthetővé és vonzóvá a mély filozófiai tanokat, ahelyett, hogy száraz vallásbölcseleti értekezés lenne.
A Jedi-tudatosság és a mindfulness (tudatos jelenlét) közötti párhuzam például egyértelmű. Amikor Luke kikapcsolja a célzókomputert a Halálcsillag elleni támadásnál, az az elengedés, az ösztönös cselekvés és a tudatos én háttérbe szorításának tökéletes zen pillanata. Yoda mester örök érvényű mondatai pedig új megvilágításba kerülnek: a „Tedd, vagy ne tedd! De ne próbáld!� nemcsak egy szállóige, hanem a jelen pillanat teljes megélésének bölcsessége a célok görcsös hajszolása helyett.
A könyv egyik sarokköve Yoda híres figyelmeztetése: „A félelem dühöt szül. A düh gyűlöletet. A gyűlölet szenvedést.� Bortolin Anakin tragikus spirálján keresztül mutatja be, hogyan működik ez a láncolat a gyakorlatban. Rámutat, hogy a sötét oldal nem egy külső ellenség, hanem a mindannyiunkban ott rejlő félelem és harag. A szenvedés buddhista értelmezése szerint pedig nem maga a fájdalom, hanem a hozzá való görcsös ragaszkodásunk.
A legmélyebb fejezetek egyike a dolgok kölcsönös függőségét vizsgálja. Kibontja, hogy R2-D2 fontossága hogyan függ össze a galaxis számtalan más eseményével és szereplőjével, a bothai kémektől kezdve egészen Padmé és Anakin találkozásáig. Ez a példa tökéletesen illusztrálja a buddhista „Indra hálója� metaforát, mely szerint semmi sem létezik önmagában, minden mindennel összefügg � pont ahogy az Erő is „körülvesz és áthatol rajtunk, és összetartja a galaxist�.
Még a sokat kritizált Jar Jar Binks is értelmet nyer: ő a „majom-elme� (monkey mind), az elménk csapongó, idegesítő része, amely meditáció közben eltereli a figyelmünket. A könyv tanácsa pedig nem a küzdelem, hanem az elfogadás. Ez a megközelítés nemcsak a gungant teszi szerethetőbbé, de egy mélyen bölcs életszemléletet is tükröz.
A „messzi-messzi galaxis� történetei valójában a mi belső küzdelmeinkről, félelmeinkről és a felszabadulás lehetőségéről szólnak. Bortolin bebizonyítja, hogy Yoda nemcsak egy fordított szórendben beszélő, néha idegesítő zöld lény, hanem egy igazi zen mester, a Jedi útja pedig az önismeret ösvénye.
Stílusa könnyed és tele van rajongói lelkesedéssel, így a könyv minden Star Wars-rajongónak ajánlott, aki szeretne új értelmezési réteget adni a kedvenc filmjeinek. Aki pedig elég nyitott, az nemcsak a Star Warst, de talán saját magát is jobban megérti általa. Hiszen a végső üzenet ez: a bölcsesség nemcsak ősi tekercseken található, hanem ott van a kedvenc történeteinkben is.
Az Erő � és a Dharma � legyen veled. Mindig.
July 29, 2024
"The Dharma of Star Wars" by Matthew Bortolin offers a fascinating blend of popular culture and spiritual insight, making it a unique and engaging read. The book explores the parallels between the teachings of the Buddha and the beloved Star Wars saga, shedding light on the philosophical and spiritual undertones of the series. What makes this book particularly enjoyable is how it draws connections between the journey of characters like Luke Skywalker and the principles of mindfulness, compassion, and the nature of self. It brings a fresh perspective to the Star Wars narrative, revealing deeper layers and meanings that might not be immediately apparent. Bortolin's playful and accessible writing style makes complex spiritual concepts easy to understand and relate to, even for those who might not be familiar with Buddhism. The book also includes practical elements, such as The Jedi Art of Mindfulness and Concentration and The Padawan Handbook, which provide readers with tools to apply the wisdom of the Jedi in their own lives. This combination of philosophical exploration and practical advice makes the book not just an entertaining read but also an inspiring guide for personal growth. Overall, "The Dharma of Star Wars" is a delightful journey through the intersections of myth, spirituality, and pop culture, making it a must-read for any Star Wars fan or anyone interested in exploring the deeper meanings behind one of the most iconic sagas of our time.
March 29, 2023
Eszméletlen jó, nem is gondoltam, hogy ennyire, mikor kiszúrtam magamnak. Persze szigorúan csakis Star Wars (pláne Jedi) rajongóknak ajánlott. Tkp. a buddhizmus legalapvetőbb elveit magyarázza el a Star Wars univerzumába helyezve, a Jedi lovagok életén, etikáján és filozófiáján keresztül. Telítve van star warsos utalásokkal, idézetekkel, példázatokkal. Imádtam! Nem tartom magam nagyon buddhista irányultságúnak, de ezek utána a könyvecske után esküszöm kedvet kaptam jobban belemélyedni, hisz a nagyon elvont példázatok helyett itt a szívünknek kedves karaktereken és eseményeken keresztül magyarázza el a szerző a leglényegesebb alaptételeket. Plusz ebből a szemszögből egy-két tipikus star warsos vitatémára is magyarázatot ad, pl. mitől állt át Anakin a sötét oldalra, miért romlottak a Sithek, miért jó dolog a Jedik híres önfegyelme és önmegtartóztatása, stb. és közben még humoros is, szóval nagyon is élvezhető könyvecske ez!
"Maga a félelem a valóság igazi természetének a félreismeréséből fakad. Yoda talán úgy is fogalmazhatott volna, hogy a félreértés félelmet szül, a félelem dühöt és így tovább."
"Maga a félelem a valóság igazi természetének a félreismeréséből fakad. Yoda talán úgy is fogalmazhatott volna, hogy a félreértés félelmet szül, a félelem dühöt és így tovább."
April 24, 2023
In The Dharma of Star Wars, Bortolin parlays his wisdom of Buddhism with his knowledge of the Star Wars Universe. He discusses key elements of The Force such as meditation, patience, and oneness. As each of these are also prominent in Buddhism, Bortolin compares and contrast the practices of a good Buddhist with those considered a good Jedi (Obi Wan, Yoda, Luke Skywalker, etc.). Bortolin also compares the actions of Jabba the Hutt and Jar-Jar Binks to those who do not practice the teachings of the Buddha.
Wrote my review here:
Wrote my review here:
March 5, 2025
One of the worst books I've ever read. The author does not have a comprehensive understanding of Buddhism, and relies mostly on cliches and stereotypes, with which he does mental gymnastics to relate to Star Wars.
Buddhism as political legitimation, Buddhism as a tool for economic expansion? Such insights, which could have been interesting, are nowhere to be found.
Although, George Lucas was a California Methodist Buddhist, so you can imagine both his orientalism and his projection of Western values onto Buddhism. Maybe asking for an in-depth analysis of Star Wars through multifaceted Buddhism as it really is and not just as it exists in the minds of idealistic Westerners is too much to ask (although a dude named Feichtinger did ok in a 2014 paper).
Buddhism as political legitimation, Buddhism as a tool for economic expansion? Such insights, which could have been interesting, are nowhere to be found.
Although, George Lucas was a California Methodist Buddhist, so you can imagine both his orientalism and his projection of Western values onto Buddhism. Maybe asking for an in-depth analysis of Star Wars through multifaceted Buddhism as it really is and not just as it exists in the minds of idealistic Westerners is too much to ask (although a dude named Feichtinger did ok in a 2014 paper).
July 19, 2019
Fascinating reading of Stars Wars, at least the original trilogy, prequel trilogy, and Clone Wars, from the Buddhist perspective. The only reason this is a 4-star review is the fact that I don't necessarily agree with some of the readings. While I don't necessarily agree with all of the readings, I do see the perspective that he's trying to come from. And the way that things are, Star Wars is something that changes some semblance of meaning depending on the frame that you're using to interpret the franchise from.
June 24, 2019
Not a fan. I found the fault with how many of the star wars parts are shoe horned into the Buddhist system. And page 79 (chapter 7) gives a belief system the shows either standing up for Good against evil is meaningless or a person shouldn’t care about it at the end of their life. I think either of those beliefs lead to more suffering than actually confronting evil or trying to better oneself.
November 16, 2017
A fun introduction to Buddhism. Also, a good introduction if you're only into Secular Buddhism. It sticks to the core Buddhist concepts and doesn't delve much into any mythology save that of Star Wars itself.
September 29, 2018
It may have taken me awhile to finish but I enjoyed reading how the Dharma relates to Star Wars. I had to laugh at some parts and other sections I had an "oh, I hadn't thought of that. That's cool/interesting point."
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