Customer Reviews

Jnaneshvar: The Life and Works of the Celebrated 13th Century Indian Mystic-Poet (Classics of Mystical Literature Series)

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Swami Abhayananda has used his ability to write simply and clearly in English to produce a version of some of this great mystic's writings (most notably, "Anubhavamrita") which are faithful to both the beauty and the truth of the original texts. Jnaneshwar writes of this great truth from his direct experience and it is clear that this particular translator himself well knows what Jnaneshwar is talking about. Another translation of the "Anubhavamrita (Experience of Immortality)", by Ramesh S. Balsekar, is not so well done from an artistic standpoint, but is still quite valuable for its enlightening commentary.

Swami Abhayananda has gifted us with an in-depth look at the life and times and the rare poetry of Jnaneshvar, the thirteenth century Indian mystic-poet. This is nonduality at its most poetic:

These two are the only ones
Who dwell in this home called the universe.
When the Master of the house sleeps,
The Mistress stays awake,
And performs the functions of both.

When He awakes, the whole house disappears,
And nothing at all is left.

Two lutes: one note.
Two flowers: one fragrance.
Two lamps: one light.

Two lips: one word.
Two eyes: one sight.
These two: one universe.

Half the book tells of the life of Jnaneshvar. Years, names, and maps are based on historical fact (and supported by a bibliography). The details are freshened and brought to life by the incorporation of dramatic elements reserved for historical fiction.

If you love the poetry of Rumi, the intensity of Ibn 'Arabi, the backdrop of fine storytelling (this could be a movie), you must read this great book. [...]

Jerry Katz