Customer Reviews

The Tantric Mysticism of Tibet: A Practical Guide to the Theory, Purpose, and Techniques ofTantric Meditation

5 star:		(3)
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I'm surprised noone has reviewed this book as it has been around for years and is still, in my view, the best first book to read for a westerner interested in Tibetan Buddhism. Blofeld was a dedicated practitioner who shares his insights, his failures, and his transcendent experiences. This was not his favorite book and he was always surprised by its success. While there are many more profound books now available by recognized Tibetan spiritual leaders, none of them have written a simple manual for getting started that is as good as Blofeld sharing his experiences.

I mirror the first rating. I reflect that sometimes it is first impression/best impression. In the long run it really doesn't matter. I am speaking about Blofeld's direct experience of Tibetan Buddhism...in Tibet. This was before the CHANGE. Inter-resting to think how buddhism has evolved into west.

I love this book! I happen to have the Causeway Edition that was issued in 1974. It's worthy of its subtitle: A Practical Guide; it truly is practical. I have read other books on the subject, but this is, by far, the best one as far as a [Western] author is concerned -- he was a firm practitioner. The introduction by Charles San (from the Causeway Edition only), interestingly enough, emphasizes the PRACTICALITY of the subject ("firm practitioner" versus "firm believer"). The author demystifies the mystique and exotic-ness of Tibetan tantra. For folks who are interested in Tibetan Tantra written by a non-Tibetan and a non-Lama, this is a must-have/must-read copy. I'm glad it never went out of print.