Title
Masters of Mahamudra: Songs and Histories of the EightyFour Buddhist Siddhas (Suny Series in Buddhist Studies),Used
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In Tibetan Buddhism, Mahamudra represents a perfected level of meditative realization: it is the inseparable union of wisdom and compassion, of emptiness and skillful means. These eightyfour masters, some historical, some archetypal, accomplished this practice in India where they lived between the eighth and twelfth centuries. Leading unconventional lives, the siddhas include some of the greatest Buddhist teachers; Tilopa, Naropa, and Marpa among them. Through many years of study, Keith Dowman has collected and translated their songs of realization and the legends about them. In consultation with contemporary teachers, he gives a commentary on each of the Great Adepts and culls from available resources what we can know of their history.Dowman's extensive Introduction traces the development of tantra and discusses the key concepts of the Mahamudra. In a lively and illuminating style, he unfolds the deeper understandings of mind that the texts encode. His treatment of the many parallels to contemporary psychology and experience makes a valualbe contribution to our understanding of human nature.
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- Q: How many pages does the book have? A: This book has four hundred seventy-two pages. It provides extensive insights into the Mahamudra practice and the lives of the eighty-four siddhas.
- Q: What is the binding type of this book? A: The binding type is paperback. This makes it lightweight and easy to handle for reading.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author is Keith Dowman. He is known for his expertise in Tibetan Buddhism and translation of ancient texts.
- Q: What genre does this book belong to? A: This book belongs to the Biographies and Memoirs genre. It explores the lives and teachings of significant Buddhist figures.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The book measures six inches in length, one point zero eight inches in width, and nine point zero two inches in height. These dimensions make it a convenient size for reading.
- Q: Is this book suitable for beginners in Buddhism? A: Yes, this book is suitable for beginners. It offers accessible insights into complex concepts of Tibetan Buddhism and meditative practices.
- Q: How does one approach reading this book? A: Readers can approach this book by starting with the introduction, which provides context. It is beneficial to read slowly to absorb the teachings.
- Q: Is there any prior knowledge required to understand this book? A: No prior knowledge is required. Keith Dowman's commentary helps clarify concepts for those unfamiliar with Tibetan Buddhism.
- Q: What is the main focus of this book? A: The main focus is on the Mahamudra practice and the lives of eighty-four Buddhist siddhas. It combines historical accounts with spiritual teachings.
- Q: Are there any illustrations in the book? A: No, the book does not contain illustrations. It primarily consists of text, translations, and commentaries.
- Q: How should I store this book to keep it in good condition? A: Store the book in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keeping it on a shelf will prevent wear and tear.
- Q: Can this book be easily cleaned? A: Yes, you can gently wipe the cover with a dry cloth. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions directly on the book.
- Q: Is there a warranty or return policy for this book? A: Yes, there is a standard return policy. If the book arrives damaged, you can return it within a specified period.
- Q: What should I do if I receive a damaged copy? A: If you receive a damaged copy, contact customer support for assistance with returns or exchanges. They will guide you through the process.
- Q: How does this book compare to other Buddhist texts? A: This book offers a unique perspective on the lives of the siddhas, unlike many traditional Buddhist texts that focus solely on doctrinal teachings.
- Q: Is this book appropriate for all age groups? A: Yes, this book is appropriate for all age groups. However, it may be more suitable for older teens and adults due to the complexity of some concepts.