| Author |
Titel |
Description |
Rating |
ARVIDSSON, Frederic
& MORAN, Kerry
 |
The
Kathmandu Valley, 144 pp, Shambhala/USA
1998
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
An eye-catching photo book covering
the beauty, vitality, magic and multireligious activity of Kathmandu and
it's neighbouring district. A peaceful coexistence of Buddhism, Hinduism,
Islam and Shamanism. |
*** |
| AUSTIN, James H. |
Zen
and the Brain. Towards an Understanding
of Meditation and Consciousness, 844 pp, MIT Press/USA 1998
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A scientific and philosophical
orientated book, building bridges between brain-science and altered states
of mind, caused by Zen-Meditation (-and LSD). Highly important for a modern
way of understanding meditation, put under a Western microscope. - See
also New Age Literature |
*** |
BECKERT, Heinz &
GOMBRICH, Richard
|
The
World of Buddhism. Buddhist Monks
and Nuns in Society and Culture, 308 pp, Thames & Hudson/GB 1991
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A history of Buddhism from ancient
India to Central Asia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Burma, Cambodia, China, Vietnam,
Korea and Japan. With a collection of articles, 300 illustrations and 215
photographs. A very good introduction for the visual orientated reader
and a nice present also. |
*** |
| BIRNBAUM, Raoul |
The
Healing Journey, 289 pp, Shambhala/USA
1989
- Not available with Amazon.UK |
Various text's and images concerning
the Medicine Buddha (Bhaishaya Guru) following the Chinese Buddhist Mahayana
tradition. |
* |
| BLOFELD, John |
The
Wheel of Life. The Autobiography of
a Western Buddhist, 298 pp, Shambhala/USA 1988
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
The autobiography of one of the
most gifted writers and practitioners in the field of esoteric sciences
and an experienced expert concerning Taoism and Buddhism. You will enjoy
his wisdom and intelligent humour and get a feeling for the vital spirit
of Buddhism, filtered by Western eyes. |
*** |
| BLOFELD, John |
Gateway
to Wisdom. Taoist and Buddhist Contemplative
and Healing Yogas, 214 pp, Unwin/GB 1990
- Not available with Amazon.UK |
An easy to follow and practical
guide to various techniques of the Taoist and Buddhist traditions (-like
breathing, Yoga, diet, meditation). A great book for beginning and advanced
practitioners. |
** |
| CHÖGYAM, Ngakpa |
Journey
into Vastness, A Handbook of Tibetan
Meditation Techniques, 267 pp, Element Books/GB 1988
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A fresh and creative introduction
to basic meditation techniques and to an easy understanding of the goals
of Buddhism by the experienced Western Yogi Ngakpa Chögyam, a follower
of the so-called White lineage Tantricians.
- Vajrayana / White lineage |
** |
| CHÖKYI NYIMA Rinpoche |
The
Bardo Guidebook, 190 pp, Rangjung
Yeshe Publ./Nepal 1991
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
About dying, how to dye, the four
Bardo-stages and the Bardo of Becoming. An easy to follow interpretation
of the Tibetan Book of the Dead. With glossary.
- Vajrayana / Nyingma |
** |
| CORNU, Philippe |
Tibetan
Astrology, 294 pp, Shambhala/USA 1997
- Visit also
Shambhala's
Website for more high quality books on New Age, Buddhism, Psychology
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A good, comprehensive, easy to
follow, trustworthy (authentic) and solid introduction into the Chinese
and Indian Astrology systems used in Tibet, the 5 elements, the 12-year
and 60-year cycle, the Mewas, Pharkas, the Lunar mansions, hours, days,
weeks etc. - See also Astrology
- Nyingma |
*** |
| CONZE, Edward |
A
Short History of Buddhism, 151 pp,
Oneworld Publ./GB 1993
Order Link to Amazon.UK |
A historical journey through 2500
years of Buddhism, covering Hinayana, Mahayana, Zen and Trantrayana. Very
essential and precice. |
** |
| deCHARMS, Christopher |
Two
Views of Mind. Abidharma and Brain
Science, 242 pp, Snow Lion/USA 1998
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A side-by-side comparance of recent
discoveries of Western Neuroscience (-brain activities of human cognition)
and the Tibetan Buddhist explanations of perception. Easy to follow. -See
also New Age Literature.
- Mahayana, Sutrayana, Vajrayana |
** |
| DORJE, Gyurme |
Tibet
Handbook (-with Bhutan), 768 pp, Footprint Handbooks/GB 1996
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A highly informative and reliable
travel guide for Tibet, Buthan and Nepal, written by a Tibetan scholar.
With detailed maps, travel routes, architectural sketches of all importnat
monasteries. Glossaries on Buddhist iconography, terms, history etc. |
*** |
| DROLMA, Delog Dawa |
Delog,
Journey to Realms Beyond Death, 161
pp, Padma Publ./USA 1995
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
Realizations and experiences of
a Tibetan worman which was declared dead for 5 days, describing her visions
in the realms of Padmasambhava, Chenrezig and Tara. - For my understanding
a mixture of beliefs, phantasy and some real mystical experiences. |
* |
| EDOU, Jérôme |
Machig
Labdrön and the Foundation of Chöd,
237 pp, Snow Lion/USA 1996
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
Introduction to the Chöd tradition
(Chöd = Tantric meditation training to cut of all fixations of an
ego), the Chöd Mahamudra lineage and on the Chöd patron goddess,
the 'White Gantha Dakini' (Machig Labdrön). For the initiated Chöd
practitioner. - Jérôme is (-like me) a student of Tenga Tulku,
Gendün Rinpoche and Kalu Rinpoche.
- Vajrayana / Kagyu |
** |
FARROW, G. W. &
MENON, I. (eds.) |
The
Concealed Essence of the Hevajra Tantra,
308 pp, Motilal/India 1992
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
An extensive and detailed commented
translation of the Hevajra sadhana (-meditation instruction) with Sanskrit
and English side-by-side. For the initiated and highly advanced Vajrayana
follower, who has no chance to get these instructions by his teacher.
- Vajrayana |
** |
| FRÉDÉRIC, Louis |
Buddhism,
357 pp, Flammarion/F 1995
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
An Iconographic Guide on Mahayana
and Vajrayana Buddhism with many photos and illustrations. The author puts
a special emphasis on the Japanese and Chinese Iconography, but covers
also deities and Buddhas as described in the Tibetan pantheon. |
* |
| GAMPOPA |
The
Jewel Ornament of Liberation. The
Wish-Fulfilling Gem of the Noble Teachings, 520 pp, Snow Lion/USA 1998
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A new translation of the famous
standard work of Tibetan Buddhism by Gampopa, founder of the Kagyu lineage.
An equivalent to the Lam Rim teachings of the Gelugpa lineage. A complete
introduction to practice and philosophy of the Mahayana vehicle. Highly
recommended.
- Mahayana / Kagyu |
*** |
GOLDBERG, Jay &
NARDIN, Doya (eds.) |
MO,
the Tibetan Divination System, Snow
Lion/USA 1998
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
The famous Tibetan oracle (- based
on the Manjushri-Mantra OM AH RA PA TZA NA DHI) with dice, 36 Mo-Cards
and a manual (120 pages). An entertaining way to learn a little bit about
Buddhism. Also nice as a present. |
* |
GYALTSAB, Zhechen &
NAMGYAL, Padma Gyurmed |
Path
of Heroes, Birth of Enlightenment,
Vol. 1, 251 pp, Dharma Publ./USA 1995
& Vol. 2, p. 257-666, Dharma Publ./USA 1995
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A traditional introduction to Buddhism
with emphasis on Guru Yoga, the realms of rebirth, Refuge and Bodhicitta
(Vol. 1) and on the Enlightened Mind, meditative action, tranquility, death,
commitments and self-mastery (Vol. 2). Based on a script of 12th century
Kadampa master Chakhawa Yeshe. For the beginning practitioner.
- Mahayana / Vajrayana / Gelugpa |
** |
| GYATRUL Rinpoche |
Generating
the Deity, 139 pp, Snow Lion/USA 1996
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A helpful and easy to follow introduction
to Deity Yoga: visualization sequences, offerings, mantra recitation, Mudras,
Tormas etc. With some photos and illustrations. For the beginning practitioner
of Deity Yoga.
- Vajrayana / Nyingma |
** |
| HOLMES, Ken |
His Holiness the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa,
152 pp, Altea Publ./GB 1995
- Not available at Amazon.USA,
- order at Amazon.UK
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A history of the Karmapa reincarnation
lineage, the Karma Kagyu tradition and esp. on the late 16th and the newly
discovered 17th Karmapa reincarnations. With b/w and color photos.
- Karma Kagyu |
* |
| HOPKINS, Jeffrey |
Emptiness
Yoga, The Middle Way Consequence School,
510 pp, Snow Lion/USA 1987
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
The philosophy of Emptiness and
Depending Arising, following the Prasanghika and Madhyamika School. Be
surprised by the sharp and analytical thinking, offered and trained by
Buddhism. Recommended for the beginner and the advanced student.
- Sutrayana |
*** |
HOPKINS, Jeffrey
 |
Sex,
Orgasm and the Mind of Clear Mind,
The Sixty-four Arts of Gay Male Love, 123 pp, North Atlantic Books/USA
1998 (with photo illustrations)
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A gay alternative to the heterosexual
love techniques, described in Gedün Chöpel's book 'Tibetan Arts
of Love'. Tibetan tantra and gay sex, Buddhism and sex, tantric psychology,
Enlightenment & Homosexuality.
- Tantrayana |
*** |
HOPKINS, Jeffrey
|
Emptiness
in the Mind-Only School of Buddhism,
Dynamic Responses to Tzongkhapa, 528 pp, University of California Press/USA
1999
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
Asanga's 'Grounds of Bodhisattvas'
& 'Compendium of Ascertainments', Maitreya's 'Ornament for the Great
Vehicle Sutras' & 'Differentiation of the Middle and the Extreme',
the 'Sutra Unraveling the Thought'. A scientific study on the Mind-Only
Philosophy. For the intermediate and advanced student of Sutra.
- Sutrayana / Gelugpa |
** |
JACKSON, David &
JACKSON, Janice
|
Tibetan
Thangka Painting, Methods & Materials,
202 pp, Serinda Publ./GB 1998 (- with illustrations of R. Beer)
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
The best, most detailed and authentic
instruction book on thangka painting I know. With hundreds of sketches
and some thangka reproductions. Equally recommended for the student of
thangka painting and the art collector. |
*** |
JACKSON, David
|
A
History of Tibetan Painting, 456 pp,
Österr.Akademie der Wissenschaften/A 1996
. Not available at Amazon.UK |
A richly illustrated book on Tibetan
Art from the 13th to the 20th century. About the various painting traditions
(schools), iconography and famous artists. 210 photos, graphics and full
color prints. For the Art Historian and collector. |
** |
| JONES, Ken |
The
Social Face of Buddhism, 415 pp, Wisdom
Publ./GB 1989
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A book by social activist and Zen
Buddhist Ken Jones on Engaged Buddhism, morality and the dynamic aspects
of a modern global Buddhism. |
* |
| KALU Rinpoche |
The
Dharma,
That Illuminates All Beings
Impartially Like the Light of the Sun and the Moon, 222pp, State University
of New York/USA 1986
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
Some lectures of my teacher, the
great Tibetan Vajra Master Kalu Rinpoche, who spent more than 30 years
in various retreat-caves and heritages. Essays on the 4 Noble Truth, Bardo,
Mandala, Vows, Women, Siddhis, Mahamudra... Easy to understand.
- Vajrayana / Shangha Kagyu |
*** |
| KALU Rinpoche |
Gently
Whispered, Oral Teachings by the Very
Venerable Kalu Rinpoche, 292 pp, Station Hill Press/USA 1994
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A collection of teaching given
by the great Yogi and Tibetan master Kalu Rinpoche on: Nature of Mind,
Refuge, Bardo, Mantrayana, Bodhisattva Vows, Mahamudra, Samaya and Dharma.
A wonderful book with some photos and illustrations.
- Vajrayana / Shangha Kagyu |
*** |
KALU Rinpoche
|
Foundations
of Tibetan Buddhism, The Gem Ornament
of Manifold Oral Instructions, 196 pp, Snow Lion/USA 1999
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A collection of teachings, given
in Oregon/USA in 1982: The 3 Yanas, Preliminary Practices (Ngöndro),
Bodhisattva vows, Vajrayana Commitment, Shamatha Practice, Mahamudra, Lay
Vows etc. For the practicing Vajrayana Buddhist.
- Vajrayana / Shangha Kagyu |
** |
| KONGTRUL, Jamgön |
Creation
and Completion. Essential Points of
Tantra Meditation, 129 pp, Wisdom Publ./USA 1996
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A text of the eighteenth-century
Tibetan master Jamgön Kongtrul about the basic aspects of Tantra:
Deity Practice, Creation Stage, Completion Stage. Tibetan text with English
translation and comments.
- Vajrayana / Kagyu |
** |
LAMRIMPA, Gen
|
Transcending
Time, An Explanation of the Kalachakra
Six-Session Guru Yoga, 317 pp, Wisdom Publ./USA 1999
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
Overview of the Kalachakra Tantra
and Tantra in general, Receiving Initiations, Guru Yoga, Generating Oneself
as Kalachakra, Bindu Yoga and Subtle Yoga, Mantra Recitation, Completion
Stage, Nature of Phenomena
- Vajrayana / Gelugpa |
** |
LEIDY, Denise & THURMAN,
Robert
|
Mandala.
The Architecture of Enlightenment, 174 pp, Shambhala/USA 1998
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A colorful artbook with wonderful
reproductions of Tibetan Mandalas and deities, presenting some basic principles
of the Mandala archetype. Learning by seeing.- For the Tantric practitioner
and the art expert. |
** |
LESSING, F. D. &
WAYMAN, Alex |
Introduction
to the Buddhist Tantric System, 383
pp, Motilal/India 1998 (Reprint)
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A commented translation of a 14th
century script, written by Khadrup Rinpoche, one of the two famous chief
disciples of Tzongkhapa. On the 5 Buddha Families, the 4 Tantra Classes,
the Mantrayana, the Mandala and the initiation. Even if it might have some
slight translation errors of great value for the Vajrayana practitioner.
- Vajrayana / Gelugpa |
** |
| MacKENZIE, Vicki |
Reincarnation.
The Boy Lama, 183 pp, Bloomsbury/GB 1988
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A short biography, his death and
the rebirth of my beloved teacher Lama Thubten Yeshe, who's reincarnation
was discovered in the Spanish boy Osel Hita Torres. An exciting documention.
Was once a book bestseller. |
** |
MARINANGELI, Luciana
|
Tibetische
Astrologie, Das verborgene Wissen
der kosmischen Ordnung, 226 pp, Fischer Media/D 1998, illustriert
- in German |
Eine gründlich recherchierte
Einführung in die Tibetische Astrologie, basierend auf dem Bönpo
Schamanismus, der chinesischen u. altindischen Astrologie und des buddhistischen
Kalachakra Tantra. Grundlegendes über buddh. Ethik, Astro-Medizin,
Zeitzyklen, Sternbilder, Stundenastrologie, Körperzeichen etc. Eingefügt
sind Tafeln zur Berechnung des eigenen tib. Horoskops. Empfehlenswert. |
** |
| MIDDLETON, Ruth |
Alexandra
David-Neel, Portrait of an Adventurer,
206 pp, Shambhala/USA 1989
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A thrilling biography on the remarkable
Tibet explorer, Buddhist, adventurer and bestseller author Alexandra David-Neel
(1868-1969). Even though her understanding of Tibetan Buddhism was limited,
her books on Tibet were a huge success in the past. |
* |
MULLIN, Glenn &
KUBLER-ROSS, Elisabeth |
Living
in the Face of Death. The Tibetan
Tradition, 300 pp, Snow Lion/USA 1998
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A collection of 9 important
Tibetan text's by early Dalai Lamas, their Gurus and disiciples on a Tantric
understanding of living and dying. Philosophical training (Karma and reincarnation),
meditation practice, Tantric ritual and inner Yoga.
- Mahayana / Vajrayana / Gelugpa |
** |
NAMDROL, Khenpo
|
The
Practice of Vajrakilaya, Oral Teachings
by Khenpo Namdrol Rinpoche, 87 pp, Snow Lion/USA 1999
Not at Amazon.UK |
Script of a teaching on the Vajrakila
Tantra, given in Maryland/USA in 1995: The Origin of the Vajrakilaya Tantras,
The Origin of the Deity Vajrakilaya, The Practice of Vajrakilaya, Palace,
Deities, Mandala, Vizualizations, Emptiness, Mantras, Concluding Phase
- Vajrayana / Nyingmapa |
** |
| NAPPER, Elizabeth |
Dependent-Arising
and Emptiness, 847 pp, Wisdom Publ./GB
1989
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A profound introduction to the
Madhyamika School of Buddhist philosophy, explained following the view
of the Gelugpa tradition. For advanced students of Buddhist philosophy
(Sutrayana) highly recommended.
- Sutrayana / Gelugpa |
*** |
NISKER, Wes
|
Buddha
Nature, Evolution as a Practical Guide
to Enlightenment, 243 pp, Bantam Books/USA/GB 1998
Not at Amazon.UK |
On Mindfulness, Consciousness,
Body and Breath, States of Mind, Thinking about Thinking, Evolving towards
Enlightenment. A modern approach to Buddhism by American meditation teacher
Wes Nisker |
** |
| NYDAHL, Lama Ole |
Riding
the Tiger. Twenty Years on the Road:
The Risks and Joys of Bringing Tibetan Buddhism to the West, 507 pp, Blue
Dolphin Publ./USA 1992
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
The adventurous travel tours of
the 16th Karmapa and of Kalu Rinpoche through Western countries in a vital
description of the Danish Buddhist, translator and tour manager Ole Nydahl.
Basically an authobiography of Ole himself. Many photos. -An interesting
time document and I was part of it too.
- Kagyu |
** |
| PABONGKA Rinpoche |
Liberation
in the Palm of Your Hand. A Concise
Discourse on the Path to Enlightenment, 978 pp, Wisdom Publ./USA 1991
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
The complete and famous Lam-Rim
course (-fundamentals of Mahayana Buddhism), given by Gelugpa Master Pabongka
Rinpoche in 1921. The course was given in 24 days and covers all aspects
of Buddhism (esp. Hinayana and Mahayana). With some text illustrations.
- I followed four full and a couple of short Lam-Rim courses in the Midseventieth.
A great experience and highly recommended!
- Mahayana / Gelugpa |
*** |
| PADMASAMBHAVA, Guru |
Dakini
Teachings. Padmasambhava's Oral Instructions
to Lady Tsogyal, 190 pp, Shambala/USA 1990
- Tenporarily out of print
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A collection of teachings given
by the famous 8th century Guru Padmasambhava to one of his chief disciples
and female consorts, the Dakini Yeshe Tsogyal. On: Refuge, Bodhicitta,
Secret Mantra, Vajra Master and Yidam, Mind Training and more. With glossary.
Highly recommended.
- Vajrayana / Nyingma |
** |
| PERDUE, Daniel E. |
Debate
in Tibetan Buddhism, 938 pp, Snow
Lion/USA 1992
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A highly recommended book on Buddhist
logic, philosophy, the art of debate and the sharp and detailed analytical
thinking, how it is trained in Buddhist monasteries. For advanced students
and 'professionals'.
- Sutrayana / Gelugpa |
*** |
| POWERS, John |
Introduction
to Tibetan Buddhism, 500 pp, Snow
Lion/USA 1995
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
History and a comprehensive introduction
to Tibetan Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism as well as to the four major
lineages (schools) and the Bön Religion. A good and reliable starter
for the seriously interested beginner. |
** |
| RABTEN, Geshe |
Echoes
of Voidness, 147 pp, Wisdom Publ./GB
1986
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
This is a book I recommend to all
my friends. It contains some important and deep lectures, given by my teacher
Geshe Rabten. A sharp thinker and excellent philosopher. The teachings
are on the 'Heart of Wisdom Sutra', the analysis of phenomena and voidness
(commentaries on Chandrakirti's 'Guide to the Middle Path') and on Mahamudra.
- Sutrayana / Vajrayana / Gelugpa |
*** |
| RABTEN, Geshe |
Treasury
of Dharma. A Tibetan Buddhist Meditation
Course, 255 pp, Tharpa Publ./GB 1988
- Not available at Amazon.UK |
An easy to understand and clearly
formulated introduction to Buddhism, given by my teacher Geshe Rabten.
On: Mental Factors, the 12 links, Nature of Mind, Mahayana, Loving Kindness,
the 6 Perfections, the Perfection of Wisdim... Highly recommended for Mahayana
students.
- Mahayana / Gelugpa |
*** |
RABTEN, Geshe
|
The
Essential Nectar, Meditations on the
Buddhist Path, 306 pp, Wisdom Publ./USA 1992 (ed. & translated by M.
Wilson)
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A lam rim course on the basics
of mahayana Buddhism: rebirth, death, suffering, refuge, samsara, bodhicitta,
6 perfections, quietude, shine meditation, bodhisattva attitude etc. Manuscript
of 32 discourses at Tharpa Choeling monastery, Switzerland, between 1981
and 1982.
- Sutrayana, Mahayana / Gelugpa |
** |
RABTEN, Geshe
|
The
Mind and its Functions, 189 pp, Editions
Rabten Choeling/CH 1992 (ed. & translated by St. Batchelor)
- Not available at Amazon.UK |
A mahayana Buddhist interpretation
and analysis of the mind, based on the pramana and abhidharma literature,
based on manuscripts of two lectures given at Rikon monastery / Switzerland
(1976-77). On perception and conception, the ideal mind, the non-ideal
mind, objects, primary minds and mental factors, the omnipresent, object-ascertaining
and variable mental factors, the wholesome mental factors, the unwholesome
mental factors. For the slightly advanced beginner.
- Sutrayana, Mahayana / Gelugpa |
** |
Rabten, Geshe
|
Song
of the Profound View, 94 pp, Wisdom
Publ./GB 1989 (ed. & translated by St. Batchelor)
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
Two texts and commentaries on shunyata
(emptiness), written by Geshe Rabten in the late sixties, during a long
retreat and in the early eighties. The commentaries are entitled 'Some
reflections on the Meaning of the Profound View'.
For the higher advanced beginner.
- Sutrayana, Vajrayana / Gelugpa |
* |
| RANGDROL, Tsele Natsok |
Lamp
of Mahamudra, 108 pp, Shambhala/USA
1989
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A short but condensed introduction
to the highest of all Buddhist teachings or state of mind: Mahamudra. With
articles on Shamatha (Shine), the 4 Yogas, the 5 paths, the 10 Bhumis and
the 3 Kayas. Easy to follow. With a glossary.
- Vajrayana / Kagyu / Nyingma |
** |
| REYNOLDS, John Myrdhin |
Self-Liberation
Through Seeing with Naked Awareness,
170 pp, Station Hill Press/USA 1989
- Maybe out of print
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A good commented translation of
the 'Tibetan Book of the Great Liberation'. A book on Dzogchen and Mahamudra,
written by the great Padmasambhava (8th century). A highly condensed text
on the highest aspects of Tibetan Buddhism.
- Vajrayana / Nyingma / Kagyu |
*** |
RHIE, Marylin &
THURMAN, Robert
|
Wisdom
and Compassion. The Sacred Art of
Tibet, 406 pp, Thames & Hudson/GB 1991
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A book on Tibetan Culture, Art,
Iconography, history, the 4 major lineages, the main Bodhisattvas and Buddhas
as well as on techniques of thangka painting and sculpture. A reliable
introduction for the Art Historian, collector and Buddhist student. 278
illustrations (263 in color). The prints have a reasonable quality. |
* |
| SADOKATA, Akira |
Buddhist
Cosmology. Philosophy and Origins,
223 pp, Kosei Publ./Japan 1997
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
On the structure of matter, the
realms of rebirth, Karma, Cosmos and time, Buddhist deities etc., described
from the view of Indian and Japanese Mahayana Buddhism.
- Mahayana |
* |
SCHUHMACHER, Stephan &
WOERNER, Gert (eds.)
|
The
Rider Encyclopaedia of Eastern Philosophy and Religion,
Buddhism, Taoism, Zen, Hinduism, 468 pp, Rider/UK 1999 - illustrated
above order link to Amazon.UK
(not available at Amazon.com) |
The famous and quite reliable encyclopedia,
now in a paperback edition. More than 4,000 entries and 100 illustrations
on important terms, meditation masters, basic texts, sects and schools,
mythology etc. on basic Eastern wisdom sytems. In lack of a better informed
encyclopedia highly recommended. |
*** |
| SHARPA Tulku |
Meditation
on Vajrabhairava, 143 pp, Library
of Tibetan Works/IND 1990
- Maybe out of print |
Preliminaries, practice and Sadhana
of the one-faced Vajrabhairava (Yamantaka). For the initiated and highly
advanced Vajrayana practitioner.
- Vajrayana / Annutara Tantra /
Gelugpa |
** |
SHEARER, Alistar
|
Buddha.
The
Intelligent Heart, 96 pp, Thames & Hudson/GB 1992
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A general introduction to Buddhism
of all traditions (Hinayana, Mahayana, Vajrayana). With 166 illustrations
and 19 color prints. Nice as a present. |
* |
| SNELLING, John |
The
Sacred Mountain. The Complete Guide
to Tibet's Mount Kailas, 457 pp, East-West Publ./GB 1990
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A richly illustrated travellers
guide to Mount Kailas, who is equally holy to Hindus, Buddhists and Bön
Po's. With many beautiful color photos. |
* |
| SNELLING, John |
The
Elements of Buddhism, 136pp, Element
Books/GB 1990
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A short introduction to basics
of Hinayana, Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism. - A quick information reference
for people who are in a hurry. |
** |
| SOGYAL Rinpoche |
The
Tibetan Book of Living and Dying,
425 pp, Rider/GB 1992
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A more modern orientated introduction
on how to practice meditation and with teachings on compassion, Karma,
rebirth, near-death experiences, the Bardo's, Spirituality... An easy to
understand book by the popular Nyingma teacher Sogyal Rinpoche.
- Mahayana / Nyingma |
** |
| SONAM RINCHEN, Geshe |
The
Six Perfections. An Oral Teaching,
186 pp, Snow Lion/USA 1998
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A Mahayana teaching on Buddhist
ethics: the perfections of generosity, ethical discipline, patience, enthusiastic
effort, concentration and wisdom. Basic virtues to become a Bodhisattva
for the sake of all beings.
- Mahayana / Gelugpa |
** |
| St. RUTH, Diana |
Experiences
Beyond Thinking. A Practical Guide
to Buddhist Meditation, 122 pp, Buddhist Publ. Group/GB 1993
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A very simple guide to Buddhist
meditation with some cartoon illustrations. Also nice as a present. |
* |
| TENGA RINPOCHE |
Transition
& Liberation, Explanations of
Meditation in the Bardo, 116 pp, Khampa Buchverlag/D 1999 - illustrated
Above Order Link to Amazon.UK
- Not available at Amazon.com |
Tantric teachings (given in Germany
in 1994) based on the Tibetan Book of the Dead: the 6 bardos and how consciousness
can be guided on all the various stages. The 6 elements and Buddha families
and their magical emanations during the after death experiences. The formation
of the human body, the bardo of dream, the bardo of samadhi, the bardo
of the time of death, the bardo of dharmata, the bardo of becoming.
- Vajrayana / Kagyu |
** |
| TENZIN WANGYAL Rinpoche |
Tibetan
Yogas of Dream and Sleep. 220pp, Snow
Lion/USA 1998 |
An easy to follow introduction
to Dzogchen, states of dream and sleep, explanations of Karma and non-duality,
Dream-Yoga (- how to stay conscious during deep sleep). A teaching by a
Tibetan Bonpo Lama.
- Vajrayana level / Bonpo |
*** |
| THONDUP Tulku (tr.) |
Enlightened
Living. Teachings of Tibetan Buddhist
Masters, 156 pp, Shambhala/USA 1990
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Some poetic and vital stories,
written by some prominent contempary Tibetan teachers on their day-to-day
spiritual life.
- Nyingma |
** |
| THURMAN,
Robert (ed) |
The
Central Philosophy of Tibet. A Study
and Translation of Jey Tsongkhapa's 'Essence of True Eloquence', 442 pp,
Princeton University/USA 1991
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A fundamental philosophical script
on relativity by the great Tibetan Master Tsongkhapa (1357-1419) with an
introduction and some detailed annotations of Tibetologist Robert Thurman.
- Sutrayana / Gelugpa |
** |
THURMAN, Robert (tr)
|
The
Tibetan Book of the Dead, Liberation
Through Understanding In The Between, 278 pp, Bantam/USA 1994 - illustrated
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
The famous Tibetan Book of the
Dead in a translation by R. Thurman. With commentaries on Buddhism, rebirth
inthe 6 realms, the 3 kayas, the death preparations, the various bardos,
the peaceful and wrathful barado deities, the various lights and elements,
the process of rebirth or the liberation in the state of bardo. (Compare
the Bardo-Teachings by Kalu Rinpoche) |
*** |
TRIMINGHAM, Forest
|
Buddha,
the Living Way, 206 pp, Random House/USA
1998
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A colorful photo trip through various
Buddhist countries like: Tibet, Thailand, Indonesia, Bhutan, Sri Lanka,
Nepal, Japan. With some small essays by PicoIyer. Also nice as a present. |
*** |
| TRONGE,
Jane (ed) |
Ngondro
Commentary. Instructions for the Concise
Preliminary Practices of the New Treasure of Dudjom, 124 pp, Padma Publ./USA
1995
- Maybe out of print
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A short introduction to Tibetan
Vajrayana Buddhism and the four Preliminary Practices (Ngondro): Refuge,
Mandala Offering, Vajrasattva, Guru Yoga. Following the Nyingma lineage
as explained by Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche. For intitiated Vajrayana practitioners.
- Vajrayana / Nyingma |
** |
| TSOKNY Rinpoche |
Carefree
Dignity. Discourses on Training in
the Nature of Mind, 236 pp, Rangjung Yeshe Publ./USA 1998
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
An easy to follow introduction
to Dzogchen with witty comments and guided meditations. Tsoknyi's father
was the famous teacher Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche. Also articles on shine and
Vajrasattva meditation. Highly recommended for the beginning practitioner.
- Nyingma |
** |
| TSOMO, Karma Lekshe (ed) |
Daughters
of the Buddha, 346 pp, Snow Lion/USA
1988
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
This book is the result of the
first international conference of Buddhist nuns from both, East and West
and from various Buddhist traditions. Participants came from Burma, China,
Japan, Korea, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tibet, Vietnam, USA, Germany
and other countries. |
* |
| TSULTRIM GYELTSEN, Geshe |
Keys
to Great Enlightenment, 176 pp, Thubten
Dhargye Ling/USA 1989
- Maybe out of print
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
Commentaries on 2 important Mahayana
text's: 'The Eight Verses of Thought Training' and 'The 37 Bodhisattva
Practices'. For students of Tibetan philosophy.
- Mahayana / Gelugpa |
** |
| WAYMAN, Alex |
The
Buddhist Tantras. Light on Indo-Tibetan
Esotericism, 247 pp, Motilal/India 1993 (Reprint)
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
An informative and well researched
introduction to the fundamentals of Tantra. With texts on Initiation, Mandala,
Twilight Language, The Inner Zodiac and The Ritual.
- Vajrayana / no special tradition |
** |
WHITFIELD, Roderich &
FARRER, Anne
|
Caves
of the Thousand Buddhas. Chinese Art
from the Silk Route, 208 pp, British Museum/GB 1990
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
Paintings, textiles and manuscripts
from the Dunhuang Cave in Western China. With more than 150 color and 75
b/w illustrations. For Art Historians and anybody who is interested in
early Chinese Buddhism. |
** |
| WILSON, Martin |
In
Praise of Tara. Songs of the Saviouress,
487 pp, Wisdom Publ./USA 1996
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
Sadhanas, songs and stories about
one of the most important female Buddhist deities: Green Tara. A collection
of various texts with excellent comments by Martin Wilson. With glossary
and bibliography. For all followers and practitioners of the Tara-Path
highly recommended.
- Vajrayana / Mahayana / mainly
Gelugpa |
*** |
| YESHE, Lama Thubten |
Introduction
to Tantra. A Vision of Totality, 173
pp, Wisdom Publ./USA 1989
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A collection of lectures on purity,
desire, pleasure, heart opening, mind, inspiration, entering the Tantric
path, arising as a deity, given by beloved teacher Lama Thubten Yeshe.
Easy to follow. Also for the beginner.
- Vajrayana / Gelugpa |
*** |
| YESHE, Lama Thubten |
The
Bliss of Inner Fire, Heart Practice
of the Six Yogas of Naropa, 224 pp, Wisdom Publ./USA 1998
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
A commentary on the renowned Six
Yogas of Naropa, based on a commenting text of Gelugpa founder Thongkhapa
('Having the Three Convictions'). Main emphasis on the practice of inner
fire (Tummo). For the Tantric student.
- Vajrayana / Gelugpa |
** |
| YESHE, Lama Thubten |
The
Tantric Path of Purification. The
Yoga Method of Heruka Vajrasattva (including complete retreat instructions),
311 pp, Wisdom Publ./USA 1994
Order
Link to Amazon.UK |
For Tantric and initiated practitioners
of the purification practice, using the Heruka-Vajrasattva deity yoga.
With detailed retreat instruction, a brief commentary on the sadhana and
the Heruka Vajrasattva tsok. For the advanced student easy to understand.
- Vajrayana / Gelugpa |
** |
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Recent
Books
on
Buddhism
PREMARK:
To choose a variety of Buddhist books, published in the last 10 years,
was not an easy task, having a collection of nearly 1000 Buddhist titles
in my library (-published from the Midsixties onwards). Unfortunatly many
excellent books are out of print or so highly specialized that it would
give no sense to mention them here. Anyhow, I hope that this small collection
covers most fields and levels of Tibetan Buddhism. At the end of my descriptions
I often mention if the book is more Mahayana or more Vajrayana orientated,
even though the borders between those two ways of understanding and practicing
are fluid. Where ever I could, I also marked which of the four main lineages
or traditions (Nyingma, Shakyapa, Kagyu, Gelugpa) this text represents.
An Upala flower (Paeonia) marks a book with many eye catching pictures
and a good design. I will update this page as often as possible. So revisit
from time to time. New titles are marked with this