Customer Reviews

Krishnamurti Reader: No. 1

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
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Twas never the intent to buy this book, I don't know what drove me to. His approach to investigate the simplest, the most fundamental question of existence, is neither orthodox nor abstract. In short, it made sense. And perhaps this is what the book is after all, making sense.

This is my favourite Krishnamurti book for its simplicity, im sadened its no longer available, which is why i bought another one. Its my plan if i one day have kids, to give them this book to read.
Recommended as the 1st K book you read.

It's really too bad this book seems to be long out of print and difficult to find. I picked it up, a battered old paperback, from the library of a monastery in Nepal where I was staying. I'd never read any Krishnamurti before and I was greatly impressed. His life story itself is very impressive, raised as he was by the Theosophists to be the 'world savior,' and then when he came of age, rejecting this role and becoming an independent teacher teaching people to teach themselves!

This book very honestly presents these unique teachings. Not so much a book, but a collection of talks given by K. on various topics, it is a formal and somewhat slow read, but very edifying. One slightly annoying thing is that there is no indication of when or where the talks are given. The Cold War discussions suggest it was some time in the 1950's, and the repeated references to the burning ghats suggests the location was Varanasi/Benares.

Krishnamurti patiently and penetratingly goes over all the major issues of religion (Free Will, morality, seeking, the meaning of it all, etc.) but in an entirely fresh and original way that is quite difficult to explain, probably because it is so utterly simple. His advice to question and hold no faith in any system, including his own, is a welcome idea, and still far ahead of its time for most of us. But what DOES Krishnamurti advocate, besides just thinking for yourself, if he thinks all systems have failed us? Though he gives very little direct instruction, not wanting to ensnare our minds further, it's evident throughout the book that what he is mainly advocating is a form of mindfulness meditation (more or less), a constant awareness of and presence in this present moment, and appreciation of the others, animals, nature, and just experience in general and what it has to teach us. This sounds corny the way I am summarizing it, but don't let that dissuade you. I think if you are really 'looking' for worthwhile teachings, this is a great book (if you can find it!).

The first time i came upon this book was when i was literally in dumps.I had no idea where i was heading in life and this book gave me something that that no other could ever give,direction.I highly recommend it to anyone who is anyone.