So much to think about in this book. I really enjoyed going over the precepts one by one with Aitken's commentary. His use of quotes from Bohidharma and Dogen and others was very nice as well. Highly recommended for precept study. ( )

Aitken is dope.

Very rational, down to earth exploration of Buddhist ethics. ( )

Buddhist Ethics? Is that not an oxymoron?

Aitken takes us on the eightfold path, and lays out the ethos of compassion for Buddhist. Non-dogmatic, yet also firm in his convictions, Aitken will tweak your best preconceptions in a productive way. ( )

In Taking the Path of Zen, Robert Aitken provided a concise guide to zazen (Zen meditation) and other aspects of the practice of Zen. In The Mind of Clover he addresses the world beyond the zazen cushions, illuminating issues of appropriate personal and social action through an exploration of the philosophical complexities of Zen ethics.

Aitken's approach is clear and sure as he shows how our minds can be as nurturing as clover, which enriches the soil and benefits the environment as it grows. The opening chapters discuss the Ten Grave Precepts of Zen, which, Aitken points out, are "not commandments etched in stone but expressions of inspiration written in something more fluid than water." Aitken approaches these precepts, the core of Zen ethics, from several perspectives, offering many layers of interpretation. Like ripples in a pond, the circles of his interpretation increasingly widen, and he expands his focus to confront corporate theft and oppression, the role of women in Zen and society, abortion, nuclear war, pollution of the environment, and other concerns.

The Mind of Clover champions the cause of personal responsibility in modern society, encouraging nonviolent activism based on clear convictions. It is a guide that engages, that invites us to realize our own potential for confident and responsible action.