As a beginner or someone who just started to discover spirituality the best books to read are the classic works of religious and spiritual practices you feel drawn to. These books will give you the best foundation for further exploration. There are many different paths of spirituality and the only way to find the one that will suit you is to learn about as many religions and traditions as you can. To start, here are some of the best spiritual books for beginners.
Best spiritual books to read for beginners
The Heart of the Buddha’s Teaching – Thích Nhất Hạnh
About the book
The Heart of the Buddha’s Teaching is the textbook on Buddhism. With simple language and easy-to-understand explanations, Thich Nhat Hanh makes learning about Buddhism available to anyone. If you would have to choose only one book to read about Buddhism then this should be the one.
About the author
Thích Nhất Hạnh was a Vietnamese Buddhist monk, spiritual leader, and peace activist. Known as the father of mindfulness in the west. He wrote more than 130 books ranging from spiritual guides, texts, essays, and teachings to poetry and story collections. He was a beloved teacher in Vietnam as well as in France where he established the biggest Buddhist monastery in Europe and America.
Who’s it for
For all those that want to truly understand Buddhism.
The Heart of the Buddha’s Teaching on Amazon
Tao Te Ching – Lao Tzu
About the book
Tao Te Ching is one of the biggest classics of spiritual literature. It is also one of the most translated books in the world. It’s written in verses using simple language but full of meaning. Superficially it looks like a long poem made up of quotes, metaphors, and simple instructions. But if you look beyond the simplicity you’ll find the book promotes universal virtues every human being should have. The reader of the book should read it slowly and contemplate every verse. Which is the beauty but also the challenge of reading spiritual classics. Just like other religious books Tao Te Ching holds lots of metaphors and abstractions.
About the author
Lao Tzu, born Li Er was an ancient Chinese philosopher. Lao Tzu is a Chinese honorific title meaning old master. It is believed that Lao Tzu was the founder of Taoism. Since he lived in the 6th century B.C. not much is known about him.
Who’s it for
Taoism both as philosophical thought and religion are advocating naturalness, simplicity, and spontaneity. The three basic virtues in Taoism are compassion, frugality, humility. If this is something that feels like you then Tao Te Ching will be the perfect starting point for further exploration of spirituality.
The Prophet – Kahlil Gibran
About the book
The Prophet is a collection of poetic essays written 100 years ago. It’s about a man (prophet) leaving the city in which he lived for 12 years to go back home. Just before his departure, he is discussing many life topics with people he’s leaving behind. The book is considered to be one of the most famous works of spiritual prose. It’s divided into 26 chapters and covers all the important aspects of human existence. Although it’s not grounded in any single religion it’s deeply spiritual. Inside you’ll find universal messages on what it means to live a meaningful life. That’s probably the reason why this is one of the most translated and best-selling books in the world.
About the author
Kahlil Gibran was a Lebanese writer and artist. From childhood, he was recognized for his artistic abilities. Because of the way he was raised he believed in the unity of all religions. He wrote several works but The Prophet was his masterpiece.
Who’s it for
For those that are not looking for religion but an inspiration to live a more meaningful life. If you’re looking for answers and meaning in this world, The Prophet will give you plenty to think about.
An Invitation to Freedom: Immediate Awakening for Everyone – Mooji
About the book
Immediate Awakening for Everyone might sound like a really bold statement. And it’s because you’ll probably not awaken after reading the book. But what you will get is a better understanding of spirituality, the concept of Self, and instructions to practice and maybe one day even achieve awakening. This is a small book, less than 100 pages, but don’t let the size fool you. Inside you’ll find profound instructions, questions, and contemplations to guide you on a path of discovery and awakening. This little gem is more of a workbook than a book, it’s made to be read slowly and repeatedly.
About the author
Mooji is a Jamaican spiritual teacher. He wrote seven books and hosted many retreats and talks (Satsang) where for hours attendees ask questions and he gives them answers. Mooji says he dedicated his life in service to all who desire to awaken into their natural Self and describes his approach as the lazy man’s way to enlightenment. As it is with any charismatic personality, he has many followers but also many critics. Regardless of what the critics say, his message is beautiful and Mooji delivers it with a smile in a kind and joyful way.
Who’s it for
An Invitation to Freedom is an ideal book for those seeking quick and concise information before delving deeper. If you don’t have much time to go through the ancient scripts and many many verses of prose. If you’re looking for a bite-sized, easily understandable guide to start on a spiritual journey then this book will suit your needs.
An Invitation to Freedom: Immediate Awakening for Everyone on Amazon
Inner Engineering: A Yogi’s Guide to Joy – Sadhguru
About the book
Inner Engineering is a book that will open the door to a yogic way of living. In this book, Sadhguru is sharing practical techniques to improve your existence and quality of life through yogic practices. Those are mostly physical and mental activities that should bring your body into alignment and thus bring calm and joy to your mind. Living in a body that is in alignment within itself and in the world will create a life full of love, light, and joy.
About the author
Sadhguru is one of India’s most influential people. He is a yogi, mystic, and visionary who dedicated his life to teaching people how to achieve bliss. His teachings mostly revolve around the philosophy that by learning to control your body you learn to control your life. Sadhguru deeply cares about the natural world. Through the Isha Foundation, he continuously works on improving the environment and life of the people in his country. He is an exceptional speaker, knowledgeable in many topics, and was invited to speak at many prestigious forums and conferences all over the world.
Who’s it for
If you’re interested in yogic culture then Sadhguru is the way to go. Those that feel a strong connection with the natural world and are looking for a way to explore and deepen that bond will find Sadhguru and his teachings truly valuable.
Inner Engineering: A Yogi’s Guide to Joy on Amazon
A Monk’s Guide to Happiness: Meditation in the 20th Century – Gelong Thubten
About the book
In A Monk’s Guide to Happiness, the author focuses on everyday struggles that affect every person. Then he offers solutions and practices that you can do to live a happy and fulfilling life no matter your life situation. Buddhists strongly believe that everyone has the potential to be happy. In this book, you’ll learn how and why you need to look within and connect to your true essence, in order to find peace and happiness.
About the author
Gelong Thubten is a Buddhist monk, author, and meditation teacher. He started as an actor, but at the early age of 21, after experiencing stress-related health problems, he joined a monastery. There he spent years learning meditation. With all that knowledge he came back to teach mindfulness meditation to the rest of the world. He’s been teaching mindfulness for over 20 years in schools, universities, hospitals, businesses, prisons, and addiction counseling centers.
Who’s it for
For those interested in Buddhist practices. A Monk’s Guide to Happiness will show you how to master your mind, develop compassion for yourself and others, and find lasting fulfillment.
A Monk’s Guide to Happiness: Meditation in the 20th Century on Amazon
Freedom from Illusion: The Book of Ego – Osho
About the book
In Freedom from Illusion, Osho reveals the true nature of ego. “The ego is just the opposite of your real self. The ego is not you. It never allows you even a glimpse of your real authentic self, and your life is there, in your authenticity. Hence, this ego only produces misery, suffering, fighting, frustration, madness, suicide, murder — all kinds of crime.” With a goal to liberate readers from the illusion that is keeping them in chains of destructive ambitions. The author calls on the internal revolution of every individual. He shows the way to discover your true self and why that is important.
About the author
Rajneesh, later known as Osho was an Indian mystic. He denied institutional religions and instead emphasized the importance of freethought, creativity, meditation, celebration, humor. While Rajneesh was a controversial person his books are still sound and worth reading.
Who’s it for
For those with a strong sense of ego. If you’re experiencing difficulties in your daily life caused by feelings of being wronged and you wish to go through life with more ease then you’ll find this spiritual book quite valuable.
Freedom from Illusion: The Book of Ego on Amazon
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