In How to Practice
, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama presents the path to achieving enlightenment in these instructions for those seeking to follow the teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha.
The book is written for practitioners of all levels from those who are curious or just beginning with meditation to an explanation of the philosophy of mind and emptiness for those further along their path.
I thoroughly enjoyed every chapter. This title will be one I return to on a regular basis for guidance and wisdom. The book is separated into sections that correspond to a practitioner’s ability to gain understanding starting with morality. Behavior and ethics are discussed as related to the Four Noble Truths, Refuge and the ethical precepts taken by Buddhists. He then moves on to explaining meditation and the types and methods for cultivating your practice.
The final section expounds upon the essence of emptiness and wisdom with an explanation of the Heart Sutra and then briefly explains Deity Yoga and Tantra and their relationship to the path. This to me is a must have title for everyone seeking to understand the teachings of Buddhism. ~ Review by Digging-the-Dharma
Phillip ~ I read this also…and loved it. It is one of the reference books I go to. It seems to me that every time I have a question…and open ‘How to Practice’ …I find the answer/explanation. 🙂
From Chapter 10: Mind and the Deep Nature of Mind…..’In the mind, the mind is not to be found; the nature of the mind is clear light.’ ~Buddha
This came to me after a Tuesday talk at Drepung. Geshe-la was discussing Reincarnation and of course he talked about the Mind.
Thank you Phil…._/!_
Thanks for the review. My favorite book (so far) by the Dalai Lama ~ The Art of Happiness.
If you’re interested in the synopsis:
http://nrhatch.wordpress.com/2010/03/02/the-art-of-happiness/
I have not read ‘The Art of Happiness’ yet…but it is on my list of To Be Read (TBR). 🙂
By reading your synopsis, I think I will enjoy it:) Yay!