A Miraculous Read, 02 Oct 2008
I was recommended this book by several friends, which is why I bought it. Curious as to what they were raving on about: "It will change your life!" I was told. 'Yeah, right!" I cynically replied. However, once I finally got around to purchasing it I devoured every word. It is a feast for the soul.
You really do come away feeling you have been given a gift by the Saint.
If every body read this book, what a difference it would make in the world.
Yes, I've heard that Autobiography of a Yogi has transformed many people's lives. I could feel his presence often while I read it. I found myself bursting into tears on several chapters, (and that isn't like me at all!)
In this age of materialism, I believe many Westener's are turning towards spiritual matters. You can't go far wrong with this book to find Truth and guidance.



Amazing, thought proving, insightful, i could go on, 15 Feb 2008
This is a wondeful book. Having just started down the route of self-relisation with my own Guru he recommended this book to me. This book has helped bring God closer to my life. It is something I will read again and again. I am certainly not of an age where God has become important to me because of "that time of life". This book has opened my eyes and given me the strength to go forward with what my heart (and I now realise God) want me to do with my life. Yogananda stands beside you whilst you read it. I cannot recommend it enough.

an elixir of light, happiness and youth for the soul, 17 Jun 2007
This is one of my favourite books. Everybody i gave this book to equally worships it. It is a treasure. I wish i could repeat the personal transformation gained after reading it for the first time. I can not recommend it enough to anyone, any age, any religion, any place, any time! I wish i could find something else equally uplifting, mind-bogging and divine!

A Miraculous Read, 02 Oct 2008
I was recommended this book by several friends, which is why I bought it. Curious as to what they were raving on about: "It will change your life!" I was told. 'Yeah, right!" I cynically replied. However, once I finally got around to purchasing it I devoured every word. It is a feast for the soul.
You really do come away feeling you have been given a gift by the Saint.
If every body read this book, what a difference it would make in the world.
Yes, I've heard that Autobiography of a Yogi has transformed many people's lives. I could feel his presence often while I read it. I found myself bursting into tears on several chapters, (and that isn't like me at all!)
In this age of materialism, I believe many Westener's are turning towards spiritual matters. You can't go far wrong with this book to find Truth and guidance.



Amazing, thought proving, insightful, i could go on, 15 Feb 2008
This is a wondeful book. Having just started down the route of self-relisation with my own Guru he recommended this book to me. This book has helped bring God closer to my life. It is something I will read again and again. I am certainly not of an age where God has become important to me because of "that time of life". This book has opened my eyes and given me the strength to go forward with what my heart (and I now realise God) want me to do with my life. Yogananda stands beside you whilst you read it. I cannot recommend it enough.

an elixir of light, happiness and youth for the soul, 17 Jun 2007
This is one of my favourite books. Everybody i gave this book to equally worships it. It is a treasure. I wish i could repeat the personal transformation gained after reading it for the first time. I can not recommend it enough to anyone, any age, any religion, any place, any time! I wish i could find something else equally uplifting, mind-bogging and divine!

Great book - I learn a lot despite being a Buddhist over 10 years!, 07 Mar 2008
This is a great book, spent over a couple of hours reading it in a library. I learn a great deal, despite being a Buddhist for many years now. The book puts everything in simple language so that you don't get bogged down by technical terms. I am learn about Buddhism of other schools too, I am a Gelug Tibetan Buddhist and didn't know much about great leaders of other tradition. This book provides a few great leaders from other schools, which are inspiring. I am thinking of buying this book now..

Comprehensive, 02 Dec 2007
In the tradition of the 'for Dummies' series, this is a good, general look at the world of Buddhism. I found parts of it interesting and useful and parts of it a slog to get through. It would have benefited from a pronunciation guide as I found some of the words very difficult. I also found the cross-referencing system intrusive - surely footnotes would have been better? However, on the whole I enjoyed reading and feel I've acquired a solid foundation from which to move forward.

If this book is for Dummies...............!!!, 22 Jan 2005
Forget Dummies! And dummy I am not, so I should have been able to cope! This book is a detailed introduction to the subject, going much further than I could cope with as a beginner. I can't fault it in terms of the detail it gives - but I confess I had to give up, after failing to digest and understand much of the content. What was difficult was being exhorted to practices which, as a beginner, I couldn't begin to understand or implement - severe indigestion! I'll come back to this book as and when I have a better understanding. Meanwhile I'll stick with Buddhism Plain and Simple, and Buddhism Without Beliefs.

Buddhism - at last a book that explains it all!, 28 Oct 2003
Having recently started attending meditation classes organised by Buddhists I wanted to know more about this religion. I have read or looked at a number of books which have helped - but only up to a point. With totally new concepts and at times a new language it has proved very difficult to grasp and understand. But I have wanted to learn more and this book at last explains everything in clear unambiguous language. It is set out in a way that enables you to seek out the bits that you want explaining without necessarily having read the previous chapter(s). And you can dip in to other parts as you progress with learning more about Buddhism from other sources. It is an excellent book for people like me who want know more and understand Buddhism better. I only wish I had found it earlier!

A Miraculous Read, 02 Oct 2008
I was recommended this book by several friends, which is why I bought it. Curious as to what they were raving on about: "It will change your life!" I was told. 'Yeah, right!" I cynically replied. However, once I finally got around to purchasing it I devoured every word. It is a feast for the soul.
You really do come away feeling you have been given a gift by the Saint.
If every body read this book, what a difference it would make in the world.
Yes, I've heard that Autobiography of a Yogi has transformed many people's lives. I could feel his presence often while I read it. I found myself bursting into tears on several chapters, (and that isn't like me at all!)
In this age of materialism, I believe many Westener's are turning towards spiritual matters. You can't go far wrong with this book to find Truth and guidance.



Amazing, thought proving, insightful, i could go on, 15 Feb 2008
This is a wondeful book. Having just started down the route of self-relisation with my own Guru he recommended this book to me. This book has helped bring God closer to my life. It is something I will read again and again. I am certainly not of an age where God has become important to me because of "that time of life". This book has opened my eyes and given me the strength to go forward with what my heart (and I now realise God) want me to do with my life. Yogananda stands beside you whilst you read it. I cannot recommend it enough.

an elixir of light, happiness and youth for the soul, 17 Jun 2007
This is one of my favourite books. Everybody i gave this book to equally worships it. It is a treasure. I wish i could repeat the personal transformation gained after reading it for the first time. I can not recommend it enough to anyone, any age, any religion, any place, any time! I wish i could find something else equally uplifting, mind-bogging and divine!

Great book - I learn a lot despite being a Buddhist over 10 years!, 07 Mar 2008
This is a great book, spent over a couple of hours reading it in a library. I learn a great deal, despite being a Buddhist for many years now. The book puts everything in simple language so that you don't get bogged down by technical terms. I am learn about Buddhism of other schools too, I am a Gelug Tibetan Buddhist and didn't know much about great leaders of other tradition. This book provides a few great leaders from other schools, which are inspiring. I am thinking of buying this book now..

Comprehensive, 02 Dec 2007
In the tradition of the 'for Dummies' series, this is a good, general look at the world of Buddhism. I found parts of it interesting and useful and parts of it a slog to get through. It would have benefited from a pronunciation guide as I found some of the words very difficult. I also found the cross-referencing system intrusive - surely footnotes would have been better? However, on the whole I enjoyed reading and feel I've acquired a solid foundation from which to move forward.

If this book is for Dummies...............!!!, 22 Jan 2005
Forget Dummies! And dummy I am not, so I should have been able to cope! This book is a detailed introduction to the subject, going much further than I could cope with as a beginner. I can't fault it in terms of the detail it gives - but I confess I had to give up, after failing to digest and understand much of the content. What was difficult was being exhorted to practices which, as a beginner, I couldn't begin to understand or implement - severe indigestion! I'll come back to this book as and when I have a better understanding. Meanwhile I'll stick with Buddhism Plain and Simple, and Buddhism Without Beliefs.

Buddhism - at last a book that explains it all!, 28 Oct 2003
Having recently started attending meditation classes organised by Buddhists I wanted to know more about this religion. I have read or looked at a number of books which have helped - but only up to a point. With totally new concepts and at times a new language it has proved very difficult to grasp and understand. But I have wanted to learn more and this book at last explains everything in clear unambiguous language. It is set out in a way that enables you to seek out the bits that you want explaining without necessarily having read the previous chapter(s). And you can dip in to other parts as you progress with learning more about Buddhism from other sources. It is an excellent book for people like me who want know more and understand Buddhism better. I only wish I had found it earlier!

A reference rather than a guide, 30 Jan 2008
This book deserves the 5 stars for the sheer expanse, the research behind it, and the approachable explanations of a very difficult, convoluted, and relatively undocumented subject. I especially enjoyed the historic context and perspective behind the various systems of yoga, and commend the author's serious attempts to provide a wealth of translated texts from the relatively unknown and mind-bogglingly large library of Hindu scriptures. His love of the subject shines through the effort he must have invested in documenting this knowledge.

The one missing bit which makes this book more an anthology - than a definitive guide for seekers - is that it doesn't come from author's own experiential understanding of the subject. This great work therefore does not speak with authority of a realised master - but is just a pointer on where to look.
However, it did help my own understanding greatly - therefore the 5 stars - and those who look at it for understanding rather than guidance will definitely enjoy it.

Those looking for a 'yoga kick' will unfortunately also find - as the risk remains with Indian traditions - a new ability to spout esoteric words and assumed understanding devoid of experiential meaning. But then, such is life :)

Goldmine of Yoga philosophy and history, 01 May 2006
A must-have book for Yoga teachers and students who are seriously interested in the subject of Yoga and its development.
With illustrations, easy to read layout - a comprehensive survey by a renowned Western scholar. A book which will always enrich and inform, a treasure of a reference book on Yoga - a much-needed antidote to the dumbing down of Yoga as a physical exercise and self-improvement trend.


AWESOME BOOK, 10 Jun 1999
It is very refreshing to see a westerner who really understands the heart,soul,and original pupose of all yogas. Most westerners assume Yoga to be a merely stretches and postures. In reality, there are many different paths of yoga--all invented to ultimately lead the soul to complete liberation, although a lot of people (even some self-designated "gurus") don't know or lose sight of this. I was very sceptical as to whether a westerner giving an honorable representation of this majestic science, and to give an honorable IN-DEPTH presentation at that!

As Ken Wilber states (in other words) in the foreword...we DO have in Feuerstein the perfect and necessary blend of a scientifically minded scholar and devoted practitioner.

HUGE BOOK!!! The size of an actual encyclopedia. But, if you have any clue as to how deep and rich the yoga tradition is, and if you also appreciate it's beauty...or even if you think it's a bunch of hooey and want to know whether you are right or not, it is an immensely scholarly--yet readable sourcebook. MUST HAVE!

(p.s.--I like old george now.)

A fantastic book on Yoga; rich, clear and well organized, 03 Apr 1999
I bought a copy of this book (softcover) and then gave it to my yoga teacher and bought the hardcover. We both love the book. It clearly explains many topics better than most other sources and has a clear organization for such a substantial reference. My first literary source now for Yoga guidance and clarity. thx & namaste

A masterpiece!, 30 Nov 1998
This is a historic publication that will for decades be the most authoritative source for anything on yoga, ranging from its roots to its nurturing within the traditions of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. It is written in a very readable style, has a lot of illustrations, and it presents the translations from the originals of some key texts. Simply magnificent! This is a book everyone should have on their personal library shelves. It has also been nicely printed and designed.

A Miraculous Read, 02 Oct 2008
I was recommended this book by several friends, which is why I bought it. Curious as to what they were raving on about: "It will change your life!" I was told. 'Yeah, right!" I cynically replied. However, once I finally got around to purchasing it I devoured every word. It is a feast for the soul.
You really do come away feeling you have been given a gift by the Saint.
If every body read this book, what a difference it would make in the world.
Yes, I've heard that Autobiography of a Yogi has transformed many people's lives. I could feel his presence often while I read it. I found myself bursting into tears on several chapters, (and that isn't like me at all!)
In this age of materialism, I believe many Westener's are turning towards spiritual matters. You can't go far wrong with this book to find Truth and guidance.



Amazing, thought proving, insightful, i could go on, 15 Feb 2008
This is a wondeful book. Having just started down the route of self-relisation with my own Guru he recommended this book to me. This book has helped bring God closer to my life. It is something I will read again and again. I am certainly not of an age where God has become important to me because of "that time of life". This book has opened my eyes and given me the strength to go forward with what my heart (and I now realise God) want me to do with my life. Yogananda stands beside you whilst you read it. I cannot recommend it enough.

an elixir of light, happiness and youth for the soul, 17 Jun 2007
This is one of my favourite books. Everybody i gave this book to equally worships it. It is a treasure. I wish i could repeat the personal transformation gained after reading it for the first time. I can not recommend it enough to anyone, any age, any religion, any place, any time! I wish i could find something else equally uplifting, mind-bogging and divine!

Great book - I learn a lot despite being a Buddhist over 10 years!, 07 Mar 2008
This is a great book, spent over a couple of hours reading it in a library. I learn a great deal, despite being a Buddhist for many years now. The book puts everything in simple language so that you don't get bogged down by technical terms. I am learn about Buddhism of other schools too, I am a Gelug Tibetan Buddhist and didn't know much about great leaders of other tradition. This book provides a few great leaders from other schools, which are inspiring. I am thinking of buying this book now..

Comprehensive, 02 Dec 2007
In the tradition of the 'for Dummies' series, this is a good, general look at the world of Buddhism. I found parts of it interesting and useful and parts of it a slog to get through. It would have benefited from a pronunciation guide as I found some of the words very difficult. I also found the cross-referencing system intrusive - surely footnotes would have been better? However, on the whole I enjoyed reading and feel I've acquired a solid foundation from which to move forward.

If this book is for Dummies...............!!!, 22 Jan 2005
Forget Dummies! And dummy I am not, so I should have been able to cope! This book is a detailed introduction to the subject, going much further than I could cope with as a beginner. I can't fault it in terms of the detail it gives - but I confess I had to give up, after failing to digest and understand much of the content. What was difficult was being exhorted to practices which, as a beginner, I couldn't begin to understand or implement - severe indigestion! I'll come back to this book as and when I have a better understanding. Meanwhile I'll stick with Buddhism Plain and Simple, and Buddhism Without Beliefs.

Buddhism - at last a book that explains it all!, 28 Oct 2003
Having recently started attending meditation classes organised by Buddhists I wanted to know more about this religion. I have read or looked at a number of books which have helped - but only up to a point. With totally new concepts and at times a new language it has proved very difficult to grasp and understand. But I have wanted to learn more and this book at last explains everything in clear unambiguous language. It is set out in a way that enables you to seek out the bits that you want explaining without necessarily having read the previous chapter(s). And you can dip in to other parts as you progress with learning more about Buddhism from other sources. It is an excellent book for people like me who want know more and understand Buddhism better. I only wish I had found it earlier!

A reference rather than a guide, 30 Jan 2008
This book deserves the 5 stars for the sheer expanse, the research behind it, and the approachable explanations of a very difficult, convoluted, and relatively undocumented subject. I especially enjoyed the historic context and perspective behind the various systems of yoga, and commend the author's serious attempts to provide a wealth of translated texts from the relatively unknown and mind-bogglingly large library of Hindu scriptures. His love of the subject shines through the effort he must have invested in documenting this knowledge.

The one missing bit which makes this book more an anthology - than a definitive guide for seekers - is that it doesn't come from author's own experiential understanding of the subject. This great work therefore does not speak with authority of a realised master - but is just a pointer on where to look.
However, it did help my own understanding greatly - therefore the 5 stars - and those who look at it for understanding rather than guidance will definitely enjoy it.

Those looking for a 'yoga kick' will unfortunately also find - as the risk remains with Indian traditions - a new ability to spout esoteric words and assumed understanding devoid of experiential meaning. But then, such is life :)

Goldmine of Yoga philosophy and history, 01 May 2006
A must-have book for Yoga teachers and students who are seriously interested in the subject of Yoga and its development.
With illustrations, easy to read layout - a comprehensive survey by a renowned Western scholar. A book which will always enrich and inform, a treasure of a reference book on Yoga - a much-needed antidote to the dumbing down of Yoga as a physical exercise and self-improvement trend.


AWESOME BOOK, 10 Jun 1999
It is very refreshing to see a westerner who really understands the heart,soul,and original pupose of all yogas. Most westerners assume Yoga to be a merely stretches and postures. In reality, there are many different paths of yoga--all invented to ultimately lead the soul to complete liberation, although a lot of people (even some self-designated "gurus") don't know or lose sight of this. I was very sceptical as to whether a westerner giving an honorable representation of this majestic science, and to give an honorable IN-DEPTH presentation at that!

As Ken Wilber states (in other words) in the foreword...we DO have in Feuerstein the perfect and necessary blend of a scientifically minded scholar and devoted practitioner.

HUGE BOOK!!! The size of an actual encyclopedia. But, if you have any clue as to how deep and rich the yoga tradition is, and if you also appreciate it's beauty...or even if you think it's a bunch of hooey and want to know whether you are right or not, it is an immensely scholarly--yet readable sourcebook. MUST HAVE!

(p.s.--I like old george now.)

A fantastic book on Yoga; rich, clear and well organized, 03 Apr 1999
I bought a copy of this book (softcover) and then gave it to my yoga teacher and bought the hardcover. We both love the book. It clearly explains many topics better than most other sources and has a clear organization for such a substantial reference. My first literary source now for Yoga guidance and clarity. thx & namaste

A masterpiece!, 30 Nov 1998
This is a historic publication that will for decades be the most authoritative source for anything on yoga, ranging from its roots to its nurturing within the traditions of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. It is written in a very readable style, has a lot of illustrations, and it presents the translations from the originals of some key texts. Simply magnificent! This is a book everyone should have on their personal library shelves. It has also been nicely printed and designed.

Fly like a guru, 07 Jul 2007
Buddhist practitioners can levitate. They can see the future. When they die, their bodies turn to light.

So claims Surya Das.

I genuinely enjoyed Awakening the Buddha Within. The book is a primer on Buddhism, with a chapter on the Four Noble Truths, and one each on the Eightfold Path, clearly explained and illustrated for the western reader making his or her first encounter with Buddhism. Surya Das' writing is breezy and conversational, an easy-to-read style that keeps you turning the pages. Das doesn't get bogged down in the minutiae of theology or philosophy and personalizes his teachings by relating relevant stories from his own life and his own search for meaning. As much "what is," the book also offers "how to" in the form of simple meditations and other exercises, such as keeping a dream journal or a journal of favorite spiritual quotations, simple steps to for helping build new awareness.

As much as I liked the book, I also found some fairly outlandish claims within, such as the section on Lucid Dreaming, in which Das writes that we can multiply our bodies, travel to heavenly realms to receive special spiritual teachings, and that he himself was able through such practices to see into the future.

He sets us up early on by letting us know that such super human powers, while manifest among the Buddhist elite, are ultimately mere distractions along the path.

================QUOTE================
Seekers, curious about the unknown, might want to know more about levitation, conscious dying, lucid dreaming, astral travel, rainbow bodies, and clairvoyance. However, that's not finally what it's all about. The Buddha did perform certain miracles, but he always instructed his disciples not to demonstrate miraculous powers except to inspire faith in the skeptical. Lamas say the same thing. The magical, mysterious and occult are special effects that can be produced, but it's not the whole story. The miracle of Buddhism is a miracle of love, not levitation. [pp 12-13]
==============END QUOTE==============

As we're only on page 12, it might be reasonable to expect some future explication of such feats, but the only thing I recall reading is a couple of paragraphs in the last quarter of the book, in the section on Lucid Dreaming.

================QUOTE================
By seizing a dream we can perform spiritual activities, multiply our bodies, as well as go to pure realms of existence to receive teachings and blessings from Buddhas, transcendent Bodhisattvas, and saintly sages. In this way we train to master altered states and different ways of being, including astral travel and other out-of-body experiences.... With guidance from my teachers, ... I was able to get some indication of future events and to understand certain signs, portents and omens. [pp 330-331]
==============END QUOTE==============

Amazing.

Perhaps not so amazing for a Tibetan who's grown up listening to stories about such super-human feats. But Tibetans are not likely to be reading this book, at least not in large numbers. This book is for Europeans and North Americans, the people most likely on planet Earth to be skeptical - and curious - about such claims.

And yet Das provides no evidence, no proof, not even an accounting of what he experienced or what he witnessed. For over 300 pages he covers the Four Noble Truths and the Eight Fold Path, a topic that is covered by most authors in a few pages. Das' account is padded with quotations, examples, stories, and illustrations, from the lives of saints, from every day life, from his own life. But here - nothing. He falls strangely silent.

I do not claim that such feats are impossible. They certainly may be. But Das' refusal to engage the subject makes it seem he has something to hide, which in turn casts a shadow of doubt across the rest of what is a well-written introduction to Buddhism. If he can't talk to us honestly about this, then what else can't he discuss openly? What else might he be hiding?

I know of no evidence demonstrating these powers or abilities. If Das does, then he owes it to his readers to explain.

#

Tibetan Buddhism for Beginners, 09 Mar 2002
Lama Surya Das does a good job of introducing the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism to the West. Many people see Buddhism as an exotic Eastern tradition without any relevance to our lives here and now. However, one need not embrace Buddhism to gain much from Buddhist concepts. This book is a little soft on certain concepts (like reincarnation). However, this book is meant for one not already deeply involved in the practice of Buddhism, so maybe it's better that way. I also highly recommend "Open Your Mind, Open Your Life: A Book of Eastern Wisdom" by Taro Gold. Excellent.

A book for those who believe that there must be more, 18 Jul 2001
I have read this book several times till today and I think I will reread it, because it simply has offered to me a new perspective about the meaning of life and our daily issues. This perspective was at the beginning in some ways quite new to me, but I noticed that from the beginning on, it started to change my life,my behavior patterns and help me a great deal. This book does not only provide an insight to how we live our lives and what make us suffer here but also encourages and shows us how we can get in touch with our innate nature , purify our minds and improve our ways to live "our lives". This is exciting and worth to try.

Everyone needs to read this book!, 28 Aug 2000
If everyone read this book, the world would be a better place to live. You can become a better you and look at things in a completely different light. Buddhism removes itself from the judgement and fear of Christianity, it just enlightens.

I have read several books by the Dalai Lama and this book provides more references and gives a less general synopsis.

A joy to read a clear and sympathetic guide, 25 Aug 1999
Although I have not ready widely concerning the topic of buddhism, I was pleased that this book was recommended to me by one of the staff at a bookshop in Central London. It is, in my view, a satisfying guide to the way in which buddhism can assist day to day with problems that I face. I would recommend this book to anyone with a skimpy knowledge of the subject and a yet an interest.

A Miraculous Read, 02 Oct 2008
I was recommended this book by several friends, which is why I bought it. Curious as to what they were raving on about: "It will change your life!" I was told. 'Yeah, right!" I cynically replied. However, once I finally got around to purchasing it I devoured every word. It is a feast for the soul.
You really do come away feeling you have been given a gift by the Saint.
If every body read this book, what a difference it would make in the world.
Yes, I've heard that Autobiography of a Yogi has transformed many people's lives. I could feel his presence often while I read it. I found myself bursting into tears on several chapters, (and that isn't like me at all!)
In this age of materialism, I believe many Westener's are turning towards spiritual matters. You can't go far wrong with this book to find Truth and guidance.



Amazing, thought proving, insightful, i could go on, 15 Feb 2008
This is a wondeful book. Having just started down the route of self-relisation with my own Guru he recommended this book to me. This book has helped bring God closer to my life. It is something I will read again and again. I am certainly not of an age where God has become important to me because of "that time of life". This book has opened my eyes and given me the strength to go forward with what my heart (and I now realise God) want me to do with my life. Yogananda stands beside you whilst you read it. I cannot recommend it enough.

an elixir of light, happiness and youth for the soul, 17 Jun 2007
This is one of my favourite books. Everybody i gave this book to equally worships it. It is a treasure. I wish i could repeat the personal transformation gained after reading it for the first time. I can not recommend it enough to anyone, any age, any religion, any place, any time! I wish i could find something else equally uplifting, mind-bogging and divine!

Great book - I learn a lot despite being a Buddhist over 10 years!, 07 Mar 2008
This is a great book, spent over a couple of hours reading it in a library. I learn a great deal, despite being a Buddhist for many years now. The book puts everything in simple language so that you don't get bogged down by technical terms. I am learn about Buddhism of other schools too, I am a Gelug Tibetan Buddhist and didn't know much about great leaders of other tradition. This book provides a few great leaders from other schools, which are inspiring. I am thinking of buying this book now..

Comprehensive, 02 Dec 2007
In the tradition of the 'for Dummies' series, this is a good, general look at the world of Buddhism. I found parts of it interesting and useful and parts of it a slog to get through. It would have benefited from a pronunciation guide as I found some of the words very difficult. I also found the cross-referencing system intrusive - surely footnotes would have been better? However, on the whole I enjoyed reading and feel I've acquired a solid foundation from which to move forward.

If this book is for Dummies...............!!!, 22 Jan 2005
Forget Dummies! And dummy I am not, so I should have been able to cope! This book is a detailed introduction to the subject, going much further than I could cope with as a beginner. I can't fault it in terms of the detail it gives - but I confess I had to give up, after failing to digest and understand much of the content. What was difficult was being exhorted to practices which, as a beginner, I couldn't begin to understand or implement - severe indigestion! I'll come back to this book as and when I have a better understanding. Meanwhile I'll stick with Buddhism Plain and Simple, and Buddhism Without Beliefs.

Buddhism - at last a book that explains it all!, 28 Oct 2003
Having recently started attending meditation classes organised by Buddhists I wanted to know more about this religion. I have read or looked at a number of books which have helped - but only up to a point. With totally new concepts and at times a new language it has proved very difficult to grasp and understand. But I have wanted to learn more and this book at last explains everything in clear unambiguous language. It is set out in a way that enables you to seek out the bits that you want explaining without necessarily having read the previous chapter(s). And you can dip in to other parts as you progress with learning more about Buddhism from other sources. It is an excellent book for people like me who want know more and understand Buddhism better. I only wish I had found it earlier!

A reference rather than a guide, 30 Jan 2008
This book deserves the 5 stars for the sheer expanse, the research behind it, and the approachable explanations of a very difficult, convoluted, and relatively undocumented subject. I especially enjoyed the historic context and perspective behind the various systems of yoga, and commend the author's serious attempts to provide a wealth of translated texts from the relatively unknown and mind-bogglingly large library of Hindu scriptures. His love of the subject shines through the effort he must have invested in documenting this knowledge.

The one missing bit which makes this book more an anthology - than a definitive guide for seekers - is that it doesn't come from author's own experiential understanding of the subject. This great work therefore does not speak with authority of a realised master - but is just a pointer on where to look.
However, it did help my own understanding greatly - therefore the 5 stars - and those who look at it for understanding rather than guidance will definitely enjoy it.

Those looking for a 'yoga kick' will unfortunately also find - as the risk remains with Indian traditions - a new ability to spout esoteric words and assumed understanding devoid of experiential meaning. But then, such is life :)

Goldmine of Yoga philosophy and history, 01 May 2006
A must-have book for Yoga teachers and students who are seriously interested in the subject of Yoga and its development.
With illustrations, easy to read layout - a comprehensive survey by a renowned Western scholar. A book which will always enrich and inform, a treasure of a reference book on Yoga - a much-needed antidote to the dumbing down of Yoga as a physical exercise and self-improvement trend.


AWESOME BOOK, 10 Jun 1999
It is very refreshing to see a westerner who really understands the heart,soul,and original pupose of all yogas. Most westerners assume Yoga to be a merely stretches and postures. In reality, there are many different paths of yoga--all invented to ultimately lead the soul to complete liberation, although a lot of people (even some self-designated "gurus") don't know or lose sight of this. I was very sceptical as to whether a westerner giving an honorable representation of this majestic science, and to give an honorable IN-DEPTH presentation at that!

As Ken Wilber states (in other words) in the foreword...we DO have in Feuerstein the perfect and necessary blend of a scientifically minded scholar and devoted practitioner.

HUGE BOOK!!! The size of an actual encyclopedia. But, if you have any clue as to how deep and rich the yoga tradition is, and if you also appreciate it's beauty...or even if you think it's a bunch of hooey and want to know whether you are right or not, it is an immensely scholarly--yet readable sourcebook. MUST HAVE!

(p.s.--I like old george now.)

A fantastic book on Yoga; rich, clear and well organized, 03 Apr 1999
I bought a copy of this book (softcover) and then gave it to my yoga teacher and bought the hardcover. We both love the book. It clearly explains many topics better than most other sources and has a clear organization for such a substantial reference. My first literary source now for Yoga guidance and clarity. thx & namaste

A masterpiece!, 30 Nov 1998
This is a historic publication that will for decades be the most authoritative source for anything on yoga, ranging from its roots to its nurturing within the traditions of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. It is written in a very readable style, has a lot of illustrations, and it presents the translations from the originals of some key texts. Simply magnificent! This is a book everyone should have on their personal library shelves. It has also been nicely printed and designed.

Fly like a guru, 07 Jul 2007
Buddhist practitioners can levitate. They can see the future. When they die, their bodies turn to light.

So claims Surya Das.

I genuinely enjoyed Awakening the Buddha Within. The book is a primer on Buddhism, with a chapter on the Four Noble Truths, and one each on the Eightfold Path, clearly explained and illustrated for the western reader making his or her first encounter with Buddhism. Surya Das' writing is breezy and conversational, an easy-to-read style that keeps you turning the pages. Das doesn't get bogged down in the minutiae of theology or philosophy and personalizes his teachings by relating relevant stories from his own life and his own search for meaning. As much "what is," the book also offers "how to" in the form of simple meditations and other exercises, such as keeping a dream journal or a journal of favorite spiritual quotations, simple steps to for helping build new awareness.

As much as I liked the book, I also found some fairly outlandish claims within, such as the section on Lucid Dreaming, in which Das writes that we can multiply our bodies, travel to heavenly realms to receive special spiritual teachings, and that he himself was able through such practices to see into the future.

He sets us up early on by letting us know that such super human powers, while manifest among the Buddhist elite, are ultimately mere distractions along the path.

================QUOTE================
Seekers, curious about the unknown, might want to know more about levitation, conscious dying, lucid dreaming, astral travel, rainbow bodies, and clairvoyance. However, that's not finally what it's all about. The Buddha did perform certain miracles, but he always instructed his disciples not to demonstrate miraculous powers except to inspire faith in the skeptical. Lamas say the same thing. The magical, mysterious and occult are special effects that can be produced, but it's not the whole story. The miracle of Buddhism is a miracle of love, not levitation. [pp 12-13]
==============END QUOTE==============

As we're only on page 12, it might be reasonable to expect some future explication of such feats, but the only thing I recall reading is a couple of paragraphs in the last quarter of the book, in the section on Lucid Dreaming.

================QUOTE================
By seizing a dream we can perform spiritual activities, multiply our bodies, as well as go to pure realms of existence to receive teachings and blessings from Buddhas, transcendent Bodhisattvas, and saintly sages. In this way we train to master altered states and different ways of being, including astral travel and other out-of-body experiences.... With guidance from my teachers, ... I was able to get some indication of future events and to understand certain signs, portents and omens. [pp 330-331]
==============END QUOTE==============

Amazing.

Perhaps not so amazing for a Tibetan who's grown up listening to stories about such super-human feats. But Tibetans are not likely to be reading this book, at least not in large numbers. This book is for Europeans and North Americans, the people most likely on planet Earth to be skeptical - and curious - about such claims.

And yet Das provides no evidence, no proof, not even an accounting of what he experienced or what he witnessed. For over 300 pages he covers the Four Noble Truths and the Eight Fold Path, a topic that is covered by most authors in a few pages. Das' account is padded with quotations, examples, stories, and illustrations, from the lives of saints, from every day life, from his own life. But here - nothing. He falls strangely silent.

I do not claim that such feats are impossible. They certainly may be. But Das' refusal to engage the subject makes it seem he has something to hide, which in turn casts a shadow of doubt across the rest of what is a well-written introduction to Buddhism. If he can't talk to us honestly about this, then what else can't he discuss openly? What else might he be hiding?

I know of no evidence demonstrating these powers or abilities. If Das does, then he owes it to his readers to explain.

#

Tibetan Buddhism for Beginners, 09 Mar 2002
Lama Surya Das does a good job of introducing the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism to the West. Many people see Buddhism as an exotic Eastern tradition without any relevance to our lives here and now. However, one need not embrace Buddhism to gain much from Buddhist concepts. This book is a little soft on certain concepts (like reincarnation). However, this book is meant for one not already deeply involved in the practice of Buddhism, so maybe it's better that way. I also highly recommend "Open Your Mind, Open Your Life: A Book of Eastern Wisdom" by Taro Gold. Excellent.

A book for those who believe that there must be more, 18 Jul 2001
I have read this book several times till today and I think I will reread it, because it simply has offered to me a new perspective about the meaning of life and our daily issues. This perspective was at the beginning in some ways quite new to me, but I noticed that from the beginning on, it started to change my life,my behavior patterns and help me a great deal. This book does not only provide an insight to how we live our lives and what make us suffer here but also encourages and shows us how we can get in touch with our innate nature , purify our minds and improve our ways to live "our lives". This is exciting and worth to try.

Everyone needs to read this book!, 28 Aug 2000
If everyone read this book, the world would be a better place to live. You can become a better you and look at things in a completely different light. Buddhism removes itself from the judgement and fear of Christianity, it just enlightens.

I have read several books by the Dalai Lama and this book provides more references and gives a less general synopsis.

A joy to read a clear and sympathetic guide, 25 Aug 1999
Although I have not ready widely concerning the topic of buddhism, I was pleased that this book was recommended to me by one of the staff at a bookshop in Central London. It is, in my view, a satisfying guide to the way in which buddhism can assist day to day with problems that I face. I would recommend this book to anyone with a skimpy knowledge of the subject and a yet an interest.

Tantric Sex and Tantric Buddhism - never the twain shall meet!, 17 Aug 2008
Lama Yeshe talks with amazing lucidity and clarity on the complex teachings of the tantric path of Tibetan Buddhism. Read this book to clearly show you the difference between "clasical Buddhist tantra" and the "neo tantra" (tantric sex) that is now being taught in the West. Seemingly the two are very different and have little in common. For example, many Tibetan buddhist's want to distinguish themselves from neo tantra and tantric sex. However, there are common themes to both and we teach these methods as "Buddhist Tantric Sex" techniques at Alto Sax Retreat Centre in the UK.
An excellent book, read combined with say Margot Anand's books and you would get a really good grounding on tantric sex as a spiritual path.


The best introduction to Tantra available., 06 Dec 1998
When I read this book I was taken aback: it was so beautifully written and so clear in its explaination, that I found myself staring at the picture of Lama Yeshe on the back cover, thanking him for this wonderful gift. It is very rare, in my experience, to find a book which combines such authoritative lucidity, based very much on personal experience, with heart-warming humility. Unlike many books which focus merely on the techniques of "surface" Tantra, this book explores its very essence.

Thank you Lama Yeshe for your beautiful book.

A Miraculous Read, 02 Oct 2008
I was recommended this book by several friends, which is why I bought it. Curious as to what they were raving on about: "It will change your life!" I was told. 'Yeah, right!" I cynically replied. However, once I finally got around to purchasing it I devoured every word. It is a feast for the soul.
You really do come away feeling you have been given a gift by the Saint.
If every body read this book, what a difference it would make in the world.
Yes, I've heard that Autobiography of a Yogi has transformed many people's lives. I could feel his presence often while I read it. I found myself bursting into tears on several chapters, (and that isn't like me at all!)
In this age of materialism, I believe many Westener's are turning towards spiritual matters. You can't go far wrong with this book to find Truth and guidance.



Amazing, thought proving, insightful, i could go on, 15 Feb 2008
This is a wondeful book. Having just started down the route of self-relisation with my own Guru he recommended this book to me. This book has helped bring God closer to my life. It is something I will read again and again. I am certainly not of an age where God has become important to me because of "that time of life". This book has opened my eyes and given me the strength to go forward with what my heart (and I now realise God) want me to do with my life. Yogananda stands beside you whilst you read it. I cannot recommend it enough.

an elixir of light, happiness and youth for the soul, 17 Jun 2007
This is one of my favourite books. Everybody i gave this book to equally worships it. It is a treasure. I wish i could repeat the personal transformation gained after reading it for the first time. I can not recommend it enough to anyone, any age, any religion, any place, any time! I wish i could find something else equally uplifting, mind-bogging and divine!

Great book - I learn a lot despite being a Buddhist over 10 years!, 07 Mar 2008
This is a great book, spent over a couple of hours reading it in a library. I learn a great deal, despite being a Buddhist for many years now. The book puts everything in simple language so that you don't get bogged down by technical terms. I am learn about Buddhism of other schools too, I am a Gelug Tibetan Buddhist and didn't know much about great leaders of other tradition. This book provides a few great leaders from other schools, which are inspiring. I am thinking of buying this book now..

Comprehensive, 02 Dec 2007
In the tradition of the 'for Dummies' series, this is a good, general look at the world of Buddhism. I found parts of it interesting and useful and parts of it a slog to get through. It would have benefited from a pronunciation guide as I found some of the words very difficult. I also found the cross-referencing system intrusive - surely footnotes would have been better? However, on the whole I enjoyed reading and feel I've acquired a solid foundation from which to move forward.

If this book is for Dummies...............!!!, 22 Jan 2005
Forget Dummies! And dummy I am not, so I should have been able to cope! This book is a detailed introduction to the subject, going much further than I could cope with as a beginner. I can't fault it in terms of the detail it gives - but I confess I had to give up, after failing to digest and understand much of the content. What was difficult was being exhorted to practices which, as a beginner, I couldn't begin to understand or implement - severe indigestion! I'll come back to this book as and when I have a better understanding. Meanwhile I'll stick with Buddhism Plain and Simple, and Buddhism Without Beliefs.

Buddhism - at last a book that explains it all!, 28 Oct 2003
Having recently started attending meditation classes organised by Buddhists I wanted to know more about this religion. I have read or looked at a number of books which have helped - but only up to a point. With totally new concepts and at times a new language it has proved very difficult to grasp and understand. But I have wanted to learn more and this book at last explains everything in clear unambiguous language. It is set out in a way that enables you to seek out the bits that you want explaining without necessarily having read the previous chapter(s). And you can dip in to other parts as you progress with learning more about Buddhism from other sources. It is an excellent book for people like me who want know more and understand Buddhism better. I only wish I had found it earlier!

A reference rather than a guide, 30 Jan 2008
This book deserves the 5 stars for the sheer expanse, the research behind it, and the approachable explanations of a very difficult, convoluted, and relatively undocumented subject. I especially enjoyed the historic context and perspective behind the various systems of yoga, and commend the author's serious attempts to provide a wealth of translated texts from the relatively unknown and mind-bogglingly large library of Hindu scriptures. His love of the subject shines through the effort he must have invested in documenting this knowledge.

The one missing bit which makes this book more an anthology - than a definitive guide for seekers - is that it doesn't come from author's own experiential understanding of the subject. This great work therefore does not speak with authority of a realised master - but is just a pointer on where to look.
However, it did help my own understanding greatly - therefore the 5 stars - and those who look at it for understanding rather than guidance will definitely enjoy it.

Those looking for a 'yoga kick' will unfortunately also find - as the risk remains with Indian traditions - a new ability to spout esoteric words and assumed understanding devoid of experiential meaning. But then, such is life :)

Goldmine of Yoga philosophy and history, 01 May 2006
A must-have book for Yoga teachers and students who are seriously interested in the subject of Yoga and its development.
With illustrations, easy to read layout - a comprehensive survey by a renowned Western scholar. A book which will always enrich and inform, a treasure of a reference book on Yoga - a much-needed antidote to the dumbing down of Yoga as a physical exercise and self-improvement trend.


AWESOME BOOK, 10 Jun 1999
It is very refreshing to see a westerner who really understands the heart,soul,and original pupose of all yogas. Most westerners assume Yoga to be a merely stretches and postures. In reality, there are many different paths of yoga--all invented to ultimately lead the soul to complete liberation, although a lot of people (even some self-designated "gurus") don't know or lose sight of this. I was very sceptical as to whether a westerner giving an honorable representation of this majestic science, and to give an honorable IN-DEPTH presentation at that!

As Ken Wilber states (in other words) in the foreword...we DO have in Feuerstein the perfect and necessary blend of a scientifically minded scholar and devoted practitioner.

HUGE BOOK!!! The size of an actual encyclopedia. But, if you have any clue as to how deep and rich the yoga tradition is, and if you also appreciate it's beauty...or even if you think it's a bunch of hooey and want to know whether you are right or not, it is an immensely scholarly--yet readable sourcebook. MUST HAVE!

(p.s.--I like old george now.)

A fantastic book on Yoga; rich, clear and well organized, 03 Apr 1999
I bought a copy of this book (softcover) and then gave it to my yoga teacher and bought the hardcover. We both love the book. It clearly explains many topics better than most other sources and has a clear organization for such a substantial reference. My first literary source now for Yoga guidance and clarity. thx & namaste

A masterpiece!, 30 Nov 1998
This is a historic publication that will for decades be the most authoritative source for anything on yoga, ranging from its roots to its nurturing within the traditions of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. It is written in a very readable style, has a lot of illustrations, and it presents the translations from the originals of some key texts. Simply magnificent! This is a book everyone should have on their personal library shelves. It has also been nicely printed and designed.

Fly like a guru, 07 Jul 2007
Buddhist practitioners can levitate. They can see the future. When they die, their bodies turn to light.

So claims Surya Das.

I genuinely enjoyed Awakening the Buddha Within. The book is a primer on Buddhism, with a chapter on the Four Noble Truths, and one each on the Eightfold Path, clearly explained and illustrated for the western reader making his or her first encounter with Buddhism. Surya Das' writing is breezy and conversational, an easy-to-read style that keeps you turning the pages. Das doesn't get bogged down in the minutiae of theology or philosophy and personalizes his teachings by relating relevant stories from his own life and his own search for meaning. As much "what is," the book also offers "how to" in the form of simple meditations and other exercises, such as keeping a dream journal or a journal of favorite spiritual quotations, simple steps to for helping build new awareness.

As much as I liked the book, I also found some fairly outlandish claims within, such as the section on Lucid Dreaming, in which Das writes that we can multiply our bodies, travel to heavenly realms to receive special spiritual teachings, and that he himself was able through such practices to see into the future.

He sets us up early on by letting us know that such super human powers, while manifest among the Buddhist elite, are ultimately mere distractions along the path.

================QUOTE================
Seekers, curious about the unknown, might want to know more about levitation, conscious dying, lucid dreaming, astral travel, rainbow bodies, and clairvoyance. However, that's not finally what it's all about. The Buddha did perform certain miracles, but he always instructed his disciples not to demonstrate miraculous powers except to inspire faith in the skeptical. Lamas say the same thing. The magical, mysterious and occult are special effects that can be produced, but it's not the whole story. The miracle of Buddhism is a miracle of love, not levitation. [pp 12-13]
==============END QUOTE==============

As we're only on page 12, it might be reasonable to expect some future explication of such feats, but the only thing I recall reading is a couple of paragraphs in the last quarter of the book, in the section on Lucid Dreaming.

================QUOTE================
By seizing a dream we can perform spiritual activities, multiply our bodies, as well as go to pure realms of existence to receive teachings and blessings from Buddhas, transcendent Bodhisattvas, and saintly sages. In this way we train to master altered states and different ways of being, including astral travel and other out-of-body experiences.... With guidance from my teachers, ... I was able to get some indication of future events and to understand certain signs, portents and omens. [pp 330-331]
==============END QUOTE==============

Amazing.

Perhaps not so amazing for a Tibetan who's grown up listening to stories about such super-human feats. But Tibetans are not likely to be reading this book, at least not in large numbers. This book is for Europeans and North Americans, the people most likely on planet Earth to be skeptical - and curious - about such claims.

And yet Das provides no evidence, no proof, not even an accounting of what he experienced or what he witnessed. For over 300 pages he covers the Four Noble Truths and the Eight Fold Path, a topic that is covered by most authors in a few pages. Das' account is padded with quotations, examples, stories, and illustrations, from the lives of saints, from every day life, from his own life. But here - nothing. He falls strangely silent.

I do not claim that such feats are impossible. They certainly may be. But Das' refusal to engage the subject makes it seem he has something to hide, which in turn casts a shadow of doubt across the rest of what is a well-written introduction to Buddhism. If he can't talk to us honestly about this, then what else can't he discuss openly? What else might he be hiding?

I know of no evidence demonstrating these powers or abilities. If Das does, then he owes it to his readers to explain.

#

Tibetan Buddhism for Beginners, 09 Mar 2002
Lama Surya Das does a good job of introducing the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism to the West. Many people see Buddhism as an exotic Eastern tradition without any relevance to our lives here and now. However, one need not embrace Buddhism to gain much from Buddhist concepts. This book is a little soft on certain concepts (like reincarnation). However, this book is meant for one not already deeply involved in the practice of Buddhism, so maybe it's better that way. I also highly recommend "Open Your Mind, Open Your Life: A Book of Eastern Wisdom" by Taro Gold. Excellent.

A book for those who believe that there must be more, 18 Jul 2001
I have read this book several times till today and I think I will reread it, because it simply has offered to me a new perspective about the meaning of life and our daily issues. This perspective was at the beginning in some ways quite new to me, but I noticed that from the beginning on, it started to change my life,my behavior patterns and help me a great deal. This book does not only provide an insight to how we live our lives and what make us suffer here but also encourages and shows us how we can get in touch with our innate nature , purify our minds and improve our ways to live "our lives". This is exciting and worth to try.

Everyone needs to read this book!, 28 Aug 2000
If everyone read this book, the world would be a better place to live. You can become a better you and look at things in a completely different light. Buddhism removes itself from the judgement and fear of Christianity, it just enlightens.

I have read several books by the Dalai Lama and this book provides more references and gives a less general synopsis.

A joy to read a clear and sympathetic guide, 25 Aug 1999
Although I have not ready widely concerning the topic of buddhism, I was pleased that this book was recommended to me by one of the staff at a bookshop in Central London. It is, in my view, a satisfying guide to the way in which buddhism can assist day to day with problems that I face. I would recommend this book to anyone with a skimpy knowledge of the subject and a yet an interest.

Tantric Sex and Tantric Buddhism - never the twain shall meet!, 17 Aug 2008
Lama Yeshe talks with amazing lucidity and clarity on the complex teachings of the tantric path of Tibetan Buddhism. Read this book to clearly show you the difference between "clasical Buddhist tantra" and the "neo tantra" (tantric sex) that is now being taught in the West. Seemingly the two are very different and have little in common. For example, many Tibetan buddhist's want to distinguish themselves from neo tantra and tantric sex. However, there are common themes to both and we teach these methods as "Buddhist Tantric Sex" techniques at Alto Sax Retreat Centre in the UK.
An excellent book, read combined with say Margot Anand's books and you would get a really good grounding on tantric sex as a spiritual path.


The best introduction to Tantra available., 06 Dec 1998
When I read this book I was taken aback: it was so beautifully written and so clear in its explaination, that I found myself staring at the picture of Lama Yeshe on the back cover, thanking him for this wonderful gift. It is very rare, in my experience, to find a book which combines such authoritative lucidity, based very much on personal experience, with heart-warming humility. Unlike many books which focus merely on the techniques of "surface" Tantra, this book explores its very essence.

Thank you Lama Yeshe for your beautiful book.

A balanced perspective, 17 Nov 2006
Most books available on Buddhism on bookshelves at the popular level leave a great deal to be desired. Either they are written by people who have had no contact with Buddhism, culturally or by practice (or at best very little practice of the wrong sort) thus taking a literalist approach to translated Buddhist scripts or they are too specialist, providing a view of Buddhism based on only one school or a narrow emphasis, often hawking for influence.

Professor Harvey has both contacted Buddhism culturally and continues to make an honest attempt to put Buddhism into practice. An introduction to Buddhism is one of the best overall introductions to this vast subject now available, superseding equivalent good books which are by now up to 50 years too old. Harvey combines scholarship including a knowledge of Pali and Sanskrit along with sensitivity to the contexts in which the various scriptures can be seen.

In the forest of competing books out now, this one can be recommended without reservation.

A definitive academic introduction, 01 Sep 2002
The author is probably the UK's leading academic in Buddhist Studies based at Sunderland University. Accordingly this is an academic style of book, but easy enough to read for all that, and quite useful for browsing. For those just curious about Buddhism I would recommend 'Principles of Buddhism' by Kulananda, rather than this book. For a hagiography Schumann's 'The Historical Buddha' is a classic. However, for a very good foundation in Buddhism as a world religion in all its flavours this book is hard to beat.

Comprehensive, authoritative, excellent!, 10 Jan 1999
Peter Harvey delivers an introduction to all of the major concepts and developments of Buddhism in one volume. It has an academic, technical tone pitched at a level perfect for the undergraduate or A-level student (it was written for his own students I think). If your interested in a book on Buddhism without all of the aethereal clap-trap this is the one to go for as there is no speculation only opinion and fact. A brillant buy!

A Miraculous Read, 02 Oct 2008
I was recommended this book by several friends, which is why I bought it. Curious as to what they were raving on about: "It will change your life!" I was told. 'Yeah, right!" I cynically replied. However, once I finally got around to purchasing it I devoured every word. It is a feast for the soul.
You really do come away feeling you have been given a gift by the Saint.
If every body read this book, what a difference it would make in the world.
Yes, I've heard that Autobiography of a Yogi has transformed many people's lives. I could feel his presence often while I read it. I found myself bursting into tears on several chapters, (and that isn't like me at all!)
In this age of materialism, I believe many Westener's are turning towards spiritual matters. You can't go far wrong with this book to find Truth and guidance.



Amazing, thought proving, insightful, i could go on, 15 Feb 2008
This is a wondeful book. Having just started down the route of self-relisation with my own Guru he recommended this book to me. This book has helped bring God closer to my life. It is something I will read again and again. I am certainly not of an age where God has become important to me because of "that time of life". This book has opened my eyes and given me the strength to go forward with what my heart (and I now realise God) want me to do with my life. Yogananda stands beside you whilst you read it. I cannot recommend it enough.

an elixir of light, happiness and youth for the soul, 17 Jun 2007
This is one of my favourite books. Everybody i gave this book to equally worships it. It is a treasure. I wish i could repeat the personal transformation gained after reading it for the first time. I can not recommend it enough to anyone, any age, any religion, any place, any time! I wish i could find something else equally uplifting, mind-bogging and divine!

Great book - I learn a lot despite being a Buddhist over 10 years!, 07 Mar 2008
This is a great book, spent over a couple of hours reading it in a library. I learn a great deal, despite being a Buddhist for many years now. The book puts everything in simple language so that you don't get bogged down by technical terms. I am learn about Buddhism of other schools too, I am a Gelug Tibetan Buddhist and didn't know much about great leaders of other tradition. This book provides a few great leaders from other schools, which are inspiring. I am thinking of buying this book now..

Comprehensive, 02 Dec 2007
In the tradition of the 'for Dummies' series, this is a good, general look at the world of Buddhism. I found parts of it interesting and useful and parts of it a slog to get through. It would have benefited from a pronunciation guide as I found some of the words very difficult. I also found the cross-referencing system intrusive - surely footnotes would have been better? However, on the whole I enjoyed reading and feel I've acquired a solid foundation from which to move forward.

If this book is for Dummies...............!!!, 22 Jan 2005
Forget Dummies! And dummy I am not, so I should have been able to cope! This book is a detailed introduction to the subject, going much further than I could cope with as a beginner. I can't fault it in terms of the detail it gives - but I confess I had to give up, after failing to digest and understand much of the content. What was difficult was being exhorted to practices which, as a beginner, I couldn't begin to understand or implement - severe indigestion! I'll come back to this book as and when I have a better understanding. Meanwhile I'll stick with Buddhism Plain and Simple, and Buddhism Without Beliefs.

Buddhism - at last a book that explains it all!, 28 Oct 2003
Having recently started attending meditation classes organised by Buddhists I wanted to know more about this religion. I have read or looked at a number of books which have helped - but only up to a point. With totally new concepts and at times a new language it has proved very difficult to grasp and understand. But I have wanted to learn more and this book at last explains everything in clear unambiguous language. It is set out in a way that enables you to seek out the bits that you want explaining without necessarily having read the previous chapter(s). And you can dip in to other parts as you progress with learning more about Buddhism from other sources. It is an excellent book for people like me who want know more and understand Buddhism better. I only wish I had found it earlier!

A reference rather than a guide, 30 Jan 2008
This book deserves the 5 stars for the sheer expanse, the research behind it, and the approachable explanations of a very difficult, convoluted, and relatively undocumented subject. I especially enjoyed the historic context and perspective behind the various systems of yoga, and commend the author's serious attempts to provide a wealth of translated texts from the relatively unknown and mind-bogglingly large library of Hindu scriptures. His love of the subject shines through the effort he must have invested in documenting this knowledge.

The one missing bit which makes this book more an anthology - than a definitive guide for seekers - is that it doesn't come from author's own experiential understanding of the subject. This great work therefore does not speak with authority of a realised master - but is just a pointer on where to look.
However, it did help my own understanding greatly - therefore the 5 stars - and those who look at it for understanding rather than guidance will definitely enjoy it.

Those looking for a 'yoga kick' will unfortunately also find - as the risk remains with Indian traditions - a new ability to spout esoteric words and assumed understanding devoid of experiential meaning. But then, such is life :)

Goldmine of Yoga philosophy and history, 01 May 2006
A must-have book for Yoga teachers and students who are seriously interested in the subject of Yoga and its development.
With illustrations, easy to read layout - a comprehensive survey by a renowned Western scholar. A book which will always enrich and inform, a treasure of a reference book on Yoga - a much-needed antidote to the dumbing down of Yoga as a physical exercise and self-improvement trend.


AWESOME BOOK, 10 Jun 1999
It is very refreshing to see a westerner who really understands the heart,soul,and original pupose of all yogas. Most westerners assume Yoga to be a merely stretches and postures. In reality, there are many different paths of yoga--all invented to ultimately lead the soul to complete liberation, although a lot of people (even some self-designated "gurus") don't know or lose sight of this. I was very sceptical as to whether a westerner giving an honorable representation of this majestic science, and to give an honorable IN-DEPTH presentation at that!

As Ken Wilber states (in other words) in the foreword...we DO have in Feuerstein the perfect and necessary blend of a scientifically minded scholar and devoted practitioner.

HUGE BOOK!!! The size of an actual encyclopedia. But, if you have any clue as to how deep and rich the yoga tradition is, and if you also appreciate it's beauty...or even if you think it's a bunch of hooey and want to know whether you are right or not, it is an immensely scholarly--yet readable sourcebook. MUST HAVE!

(p.s.--I like old george now.)

A fantastic book on Yoga; rich, clear and well organized, 03 Apr 1999
I bought a copy of this book (softcover) and then gave it to my yoga teacher and bought the hardcover. We both love the book. It clearly explains many topics better than most other sources and has a clear organization for such a substantial reference. My first literary source now for Yoga guidance and clarity. thx & namaste

A masterpiece!, 30 Nov 1998
This is a historic publication that will for decades be the most authoritative source for anything on yoga, ranging from its roots to its nurturing within the traditions of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. It is written in a very readable style, has a lot of illustrations, and it presents the translations from the originals of some key texts. Simply magnificent! This is a book everyone should have on their personal library shelves. It has also been nicely printed and designed.

Fly like a guru, 07 Jul 2007
Buddhist practitioners can levitate. They can see the future. When they die, their bodies turn to light.

So claims Surya Das.

I genuinely enjoyed Awakening the Buddha Within. The book is a primer on Buddhism, with a chapter on the Four Noble Truths, and one each on the Eightfold Path, clearly explained and illustrated for the western reader making his or her first encounter with Buddhism. Surya Das' writing is breezy and conversational, an easy-to-read style that keeps you turning the pages. Das doesn't get bogged down in the minutiae of theology or philosophy and personalizes his teachings by relating relevant stories from his own life and his own search for meaning. As much "what is," the book also offers "how to" in the form of simple meditations and other exercises, such as keeping a dream journal or a journal of favorite spiritual quotations, simple steps to for helping build new awareness.

As much as I liked the book, I also found some fairly outlandish claims within, such as the section on Lucid Dreaming, in which Das writes that we can multiply our bodies, travel to heavenly realms to receive special spiritual teachings, and that he himself was able through such practices to see into the future.

He sets us up early on by letting us know that such super human powers, while manifest among the Buddhist elite, are ultimately mere distractions along the path.

================QUOTE================
Seekers, curious about the unknown, might want to know more about levitation, conscious dying, lucid dreaming, astral travel, rainbow bodies, and clairvoyance. However, that's not finally what it's all about. The Buddha did perform certain miracles, but he always instructed his disciples not to demonstrate miraculous powers except to inspire faith in the skeptical. Lamas say the same thing. The magical, mysterious and occult are special effects that can be produced, but it's not the whole story. The miracle of Buddhism is a miracle of love, not levitation. [pp 12-13]
==============END QUOTE==============

As we're only on page 12, it might be reasonable to expect some future explication of such feats, but the only thing I recall reading is a couple of paragraphs in the last quarter of the book, in the section on Lucid Dreaming.

================QUOTE================
By seizing a dream we can perform spiritual activities, multiply our bodies, as well as go to pure realms of existence to receive teachings and blessings from Buddhas, transcendent Bodhisattvas, and saintly sages. In this way we train to master altered states and different ways of being, including astral travel and other out-of-body experiences.... With guidance from my teachers, ... I was able to get some indication of future events and to understand certain signs, portents and omens. [pp 330-331]
==============END QUOTE==============

Amazing.

Perhaps not so amazing for a Tibetan who's grown up listening to stories about such super-human feats. But Tibetans are not likely to be reading this book, at least not in large numbers. This book is for Europeans and North Americans, the people most likely on planet Earth to be skeptical - and curious - about such claims.

And yet Das provides no evidence, no proof, not even an accounting of what he experienced or what he witnessed. For over 300 pages he covers the Four Noble Truths and the Eight Fold Path, a topic that is covered by most authors in a few pages. Das' account is padded with quotations, examples, stories, and illustrations, from the lives of saints, from every day life, from his own life. But here - nothing. He falls strangely silent.

I do not claim that such feats are impossible. They certainly may be. But Das' refusal to engage the subject makes it seem he has something to hide, which in turn casts a shadow of doubt across the rest of what is a well-written introduction to Buddhism. If he can't talk to us honestly about this, then what else can't he discuss openly? What else might he be hiding?

I know of no evidence demonstrating these powers or abilities. If Das does, then he owes it to his readers to explain.

#

Tibetan Buddhism for Beginners, 09 Mar 2002
Lama Surya Das does a good job of introducing the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism to the West. Many people see Buddhism as an exotic Eastern tradition without any relevance to our lives here and now. However, one need not embrace Buddhism to gain much from Buddhist concepts. This book is a little soft on certain concepts (like reincarnation). However, this book is meant for one not already deeply involved in the practice of Buddhism, so maybe it's better that way. I also highly recommend "Open Your Mind, Open Your Life: A Book of Eastern Wisdom" by Taro Gold. Excellent.

A book for those who believe that there must be more, 18 Jul 2001
I have read this book several times till today and I think I will reread it, because it simply has offered to me a new perspective about the meaning of life and our daily issues. This perspective was at the beginning in some ways quite new to me, but I noticed that from the beginning on, it started to change my life,my behavior patterns and help me a great deal. This book does not only provide an insight to how we live our lives and what make us suffer here but also encourages and shows us how we can get in touch with our innate nature , purify our minds and improve our ways to live "our lives". This is exciting and worth to try.

Everyone needs to read this book!, 28 Aug 2000
If everyone read this book, the world would be a better place to live. You can become a better you and look at things in a completely different light. Buddhism removes itself from the judgement and fear of Christianity, it just enlightens.

I have read several books by the Dalai Lama and this book provides more references and gives a less general synopsis.

A joy to read a clear and sympathetic guide, 25 Aug 1999
Although I have not ready widely concerning the topic of buddhism, I was pleased that this book was recommended to me by one of the staff at a bookshop in Central London. It is, in my view, a satisfying guide to the way in which buddhism can assist day to day with problems that I face. I would recommend this book to anyone with a skimpy knowledge of the subject and a yet an interest.

Tantric Sex and Tantric Buddhism - never the twain shall meet!, 17 Aug 2008
Lama Yeshe talks with amazing lucidity and clarity on the complex teachings of the tantric path of Tibetan Buddhism. Read this book to clearly show you the difference between "clasical Buddhist tantra" and the "neo tantra" (tantric sex) that is now being taught in the West. Seemingly the two are very different and have little in common. For example, many Tibetan buddhist's want to distinguish themselves from neo tantra and tantric sex. However, there are common themes to both and we teach these methods as "Buddhist Tantric Sex" techniques at Alto Sax Retreat Centre in the UK.
An excellent book, read combined with say Margot Anand's books and you would get a really good grounding on tantric sex as a spiritual path.


The best introduction to Tantra available., 06 Dec 1998
When I read this book I was taken aback: it was so beautifully written and so clear in its explaination, that I found myself staring at the picture of Lama Yeshe on the back cover, thanking him for this wonderful gift. It is very rare, in my experience, to find a book which combines such authoritative lucidity, based very much on personal experience, with heart-warming humility. Unlike many books which focus merely on the techniques of "surface" Tantra, this book explores its very essence.

Thank you Lama Yeshe for your beautiful book.

A balanced perspective, 17 Nov 2006
Most books available on Buddhism on bookshelves at the popular level leave a great deal to be desired. Either they are written by people who have had no contact with Buddhism, culturally or by practice (or at best very little practice of the wrong sort) thus taking a literalist approach to translated Buddhist scripts or they are too specialist, providing a view of Buddhism based on only one school or a narrow emphasis, often hawking for influence.

Professor Harvey has both contacted Buddhism culturally and continues to make an honest attempt to put Buddhism into practice. An introduction to Buddhism is one of the best overall introductions to this vast subject now available, superseding equivalent good books which are by now up to 50 years too old. Harvey combines scholarship including a knowledge of Pali and Sanskrit along with sensitivity to the contexts in which the various scriptures can be seen.

In the forest of competing books out now, this one can be recommended without reservation.

A definitive academic introduction, 01 Sep 2002
The author is probably the UK's leading academic in Buddhist Studies based at Sunderland University. Accordingly this is an academic style of book, but easy enough to read for all that, and quite useful for browsing. For those just curious about Buddhism I would recommend 'Principles of Buddhism' by Kulananda, rather than this book. For a hagiography Schumann's 'The Historical Buddha' is a classic. However, for a very good foundation in Buddhism as a world religion in all its flavours this book is hard to beat.

Comprehensive, authoritative, excellent!, 10 Jan 1999
Peter Harvey delivers an introduction to all of the major concepts and developments of Buddhism in one volume. It has an academic, technical tone pitched at a level perfect for the undergraduate or A-level student (it was written for his own students I think). If your interested in a book on Buddhism without all of the aethereal clap-trap this is the one to go for as there is no speculation only opinion and fact. A brillant buy!

Tantra for idiots, 03 Jan 2007
This book is a very simple but thorough and excellent introduction to Tantra. If you would like to find yourself, and inner peace, you may find this book a great first step. All of the techniques you may need are clearly explained in it. At times I even noticed a blue aura around the book while I read it! At first I was cynical about Osho, because he has been the victim of many character assassinations and many have taken his teachings out of context to fuel sex-crazed business ventures. Having read the book, I would recommend that anybody who doubts him read it before forming any opinions of him.

The book contains some technical and religious/political inaccuracies. I would therefore class it as neo-tantra rather than authentic tantra. nevertheless, it is a great tool and should not be underestimated.

V

I was pleasantly surprised, 21 Feb 2004
I found this book after a period of immersing myself in Buddhist literature. It surprised me that I'd already come across the 112 instructions given by Shiva in the last few pages of 'Zen Flesh, Zen Bones', compiled by Paul Reps. At the time, I paid them virtually no attention, becuase they are given as brief (sometimes fragmentary) sentences with no words of explanation, and coming at the end of the book, seem almost like an appendix.

With Osho, things take a very different turn. The same 112 techniques are set forth, but this time with copious amounts of accompanying text. And that is no bad thing, because the instructions are often elliptical, until they have been explained. Once you understand what is being sought after, they are simply concise.

Two, three or four techniques are dealt with in a chapter, with specific guidance given on how to practice the techniques, and also a discussion of the underlying principles which are being used. Each technique chapter is followed by a lecture style discussion of issues arising from the practice of the techniques. For example, sutra 25 says 'Just as you have the impulse to do something, stop'. This is then discussed in detail. In the following chapter related questions are posed (as if by a student), such as 'If there is unawareness during an authentic impulse, how to stop?' And so on for all the sutras.

I find Osho's style completely absorbing. Sometimes it reads quite simplistically, but the depth of understanding is immense and this book will challenge your views on many things, and is all the more rewarding because he as such a sense of lightness and is genuinely trying to help you become yourself, and not what others might want you to be. Those people looking for answers as to what is right and wrong may need to try elsewhere. Osho's goal is to bring you to an awakening of consciousness, so that change may happen of itself and not through suppression or effort.

Osho uses many lines of thought in his work, and frequently quotes from religious texts or people (most often the eastern traditions) to either support or contrast his own narrative. He is keen to affirm, however, that he is teaching 'science' and not 'religion' - the latter serves only to demonstrate what becomes of those who have discovered their authentic self.

Best of all, you can read as much or as little at a time - the themes reccur to some degree, but highlighted differently each time. Once you have found a technique which seems to have an effect on you, Osho simply advises you to play with it for a few days. If you like it, take that one technique and stay with it (and no others!) for three months. That's all.

I challenge anyone not to learn something from this book. And for some of you, life will never be quite the same...

A fantastic guide to you, senses you never knew existed, 04 Feb 2002
Written in a teacher to pupil style, Osho really has a great way of evolving mind, body and soul. Nobody is right nor wrong, you are not told what to believe, but simply given techniques that enhance your beliefs and appreciation for life. I personally found the book very deep at the start, a little difficult to get my mind around the format in which it is written. Once I started reading it in it's correct context(teacher-pupil) everything started to become clearer. I have not read the entire book yet, I think it will probably take me another 10 years. I have selected 4 sutras that work for me, I am now mastering those before reading on. Absolutely fantastic book, one that lasts more than a lifetime.

Enlightening, 15 Jun 1999
I don't know this man, Osho, but from reading his book is seems he must be a Buddha (an extremely intelligent, perceptive, and playful Buddha). Beautiful insights into life, the universe and everything (from man's perspective, anyway), delivered in powerfully prophetic prose. He also has a great inclusiveness, drawing illustrations freely from the all the world's great (and many, many lesser) religious traditions. Osho is prolific, if nothing else; but I've not yet hit a weak spot in this 800+ page tome. I read a bit, randomly, every night before bed . . . religiously?

A Quantum Leap in Human Consciousness, 10 Apr 1999
I have read The Book of the Secrets several times. These discourses of the Enlightened Mystic Osho are a real treasure. These 112 Tantra techniques are very poweful tools of transformation. First, just the reading transports you to a rarified realm of consciousness. I relish them again and again and find new meanings each time. To me, this is undoubtedly the Book Of The Millennium and a quantum leap in human consciousness. Chaitanya Keerti

A Miraculous Read, 02 Oct 2008
I was recommended this book by several friends, which is why I bought it. Curious as to what they were raving on about: "It will change your life!" I was told. 'Yeah, right!" I cynically replied. However, once I finally got around to purchasing it I devoured every word. It is a feast for the soul.
You really do come away feeling you have been given a gift by the Saint.
If every body read this book, what a difference it would make in the world.
Yes, I've heard that Autobiography of a Yogi has transformed many people's lives. I could feel his presence often while I read it. I found myself bursting into tears on several chapters, (and that isn't like me at all!)
In this age of materialism, I believe many Westener's are turning towards spiritual matters. You can't go far wrong with this book to find Truth and guidance.



Amazing, thought proving, insightful, i could go on, 15 Feb 2008
This is a wondeful book. Having just started down the route of self-relisation with my own Guru he recommended this book to me. This book has helped bring God closer to my life. It is something I will read again and again. I am certainly not of an age where God has become important to me because of "that time of life". This book has opened my eyes and given me the strength to go forward with what my heart (and I now realise God) want me to do with my life. Yogananda stands beside you whilst you read it. I cannot recommend it enough.

an elixir of light, happiness and youth for the soul, 17 Jun 2007
This is one of my favourite books. Everybody i gave this book to equally worships it. It is a treasure. I wish i could repeat the personal transformation gained after reading it for the first time. I can not recommend it enough to anyone, any age, any religion, any place, any time! I wish i could find something else equally uplifting, mind-bogging and divine!

Great book - I learn a lot despite being a Buddhist over 10 years!, 07 Mar 2008
This is a great book, spent over a couple of hours reading it in a library. I learn a great deal, despite being a Buddhist for many years now. The book puts everything in simple language so that you don't get bogged down by technical terms. I am learn about Buddhism of other schools too