[This book] contains eloquent applications of the principles of ancient Buddhist thought to contemporary issues, all expressed in the Dalai Lama's uniquely compelling voice. Covering topics such as the quest for human happiness, foundations of Buddhism, Karma, focusing the mind, ethics and society, the Buddhist perspective on the teachings of Jesus, and much more, [this book] will be [a] compilation for anyone who wishes to have one source for the Dalai Lama's teachings or who seeks an introduction to the philosophy and practice of Buddhism. -Dust jacket.

Originally published: New York : Viking Penguin, c2005.

Words of Truth, a prayer -- Vision: Quest for human happiness; Our global family; Compassion; Universal responsibility -- Buddhist perspectives: Introduction; Laying the groundwork; Buddha; Four noble truths; Karma; Bodhisattva ideal; Interdependence; Dependent origination; Awareness of death -- Practice: Creating the perspective for practice; Refuge, the three jewels; Meditation, a beginning; Transforming the mind through meditation; Environment / symbols / posture / breathing; Nature of the mind; Practice of calm abiding; Generating the mind of enlightenment; Eight verses for training the mind; Meditation on emptiness; Tantra, deity yoga; Relying on a spiritual teacher -- World in harmony: Ethics and society; Science and spirituality; Buddhist concept of nature; Wish for harmony (among religions); Buddhist perspectives on the teachings of Jesus, the sheltering tree of interdependence -- Foundation for universal responsibility.