THREE CARDINAL DISCOURSES OF THE BUDDHA - NANAMOLI THERA

THREE CARDINAL DISCOURSES OF THE BUDDHA - NANAMOLI THERA

RATING: B

Another short book dealing with Theravada Buddhist scriptures. From time to time, I like to refresh my knowledge and practice of the roots of Buddhism and find such books as this one useful for this purpose. I never know what basic truths I might have missed before and like to have a concrete understanding of the core topics.

I would recommend this book to those wanting to learn the main root beliefs of Buddhism, simplify their practice to the basics, or as a refresher.

BUDDHIST SCRIPTURES - E J THOMAS

BUDDHIST SCRIPTURES - E J THOMAS

RATING: B

A short collection of Theravada scriptures following an extensive introduction. The book covers the birth and passing of the Buddha along with several major teachings.

I would recommend this book to those curious about Buddhism, practitioners seeking a basic overview, and those wishing to compliment their studies with a review of the Buddha's own wording.

A TASTE OF FREEDOM - AJAHN CHAH

A TASTE OF FREEDOM - AJAHN CHAH

RATING: B

A short collection of transcribed talks given by Ajahn Chah. Thai Forrest monks may be far removed in style from that of my own Tibetan Nyingma lineage, but offer teachings that can clarify various fuzzy points with simple explanations. A relaxing read that provided new viewpoints on much-studied subjects.

I would recommend this book to those starting to take an interest in Buddhist theory and practice, those interested in Thai Forrest teachings, and those interested in refining their own meditation practices.

SPACIOUSNESS - (LONGCHENPA) KEITH DOWMAN

SPACIOUSNESS - (LONGCHENPA) KEITH DOWMAN

RATING: B+

A complex read that stretched my comprehension. Whilst there is still much I will one day be able to learn from this text, at least I have made some progress already. Three specific points towards the latter half of the book stand out as particularly helpful to me - the second paragraph of Canto Eleven, the first paragraph on page 86, and the experience/phenomena explanation in Appendix 2.

I would recommend this book to Nyingma-Dzogchen students, those interested in reading Longchenpa's texts, and those who have taken a few steps in practice and seek clarification on misty matters.

VIVID AWARENESS - KHENCHEN THRANGU

VIVID AWARENESS - KHENCHEN THRANGU

RATING: A+

This text matches my level of understanding and backs up my findings so far. Matters are simply explained that I have already fully or partially discovered. What is written, I too have learned to be the truth. I can relate above averagely to this book, which both confirms my learning and gives new guidance for my next steps. Chapter six clears up a major quandary for me. The practices in chapter 17 are helpful. They remind me of when I was a child, staring at the bedroom light and watching colored blobs issue out...

I would recommend the book to the serious student/practitioner. I would also recommend it to those who practice Vajrayana and seek clarification or to deal with uncertain matters.