Living Dharma: Teachings and Meditation Instructions from Twelve Theravada Masters

By Jack Kornfield

Book Overview

A collection of teachings on the practice of meditation by twelve contemporary Buddhist masters from Southeast Asia--curated by the author of A Path with Heart

Living Dharma explores the teachings of the Theravada Buddhist tradition through the wisdom of twelve highly respected masters from Southeast Asia whose teachings have shaped the course of Buddhist practice in the West. Jack Kornfield, a renowned teacher and psychologist, provides an overview of Buddhist philosophy and the meditation practices found in Burma (Myanmar), Thailand, and Laos. The detailed instructions from these teachers emphasize mindfulness, compassion, and the pursuit of inner freedom. Readers will gain invaluable insight into the sophisticated nature of Buddhist psychology, learning techniques to cultivate laser-like concentration and deep understanding of the mind and heart. This book dispels the notion of a singular path to enlightenment, showcasing a rich tapestry of practices that foster patience, wisdom, and clarity.

With a focus on both the challenges and transformative potential of meditation, Living Dharma serves as a guide for those seeking to integrate Eastern practices into their daily lives. For those yearning to deepen their meditation practice or explore the depths of Theravada Buddhism, it offers an opportunity to engage with teachings that are both profound and practical. Kornfield bridges the gap between East and West, presenting these teachings in an accessible manner that resonates with contemporary readers.

Jack Kornfield's first three chapters give an overview of Buddhist philosophy and, specifically, the meditation practices of Burma, Thailand, and Laos. The teachings in this volume are from Achaan Chaa, Mahasi Sayadaw, Sunlun Sayadaw, Achaan Buddhadasa, Achaan Naeb, Achaan Maha Boowa, Tuangpulu Sayadaw, Mohnyin Sayadaw, Mogok Sayadaw, U Ba Khin, Achaan Dhammadaro, and Achaan Jumnien.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1590308328
• ISBN13: 9781590308325
• Release Date: October 2010
• Publisher: Shambhala
• Length: 336 Pages
• Weight: 1.16 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 6.0" x 8.8"

Customer Reviews

Rich and Varied

This book is refreshing and abundant in its ability to present the wonderful breadth of Thai and Burmese Theravada. Prior to reading it, my exposure to Theravada was largely confined to that form practiced in Sri Lanka. It will certainly expose one to the richness expounded by adepts of the Forest Tradition. I cannot comment enough on the multifaceted nature of this school of Buddhism, with regard to differing perspectives on teaching and methodology. For those interested in expanding their knowledge of same, this is certainly a work to indulge in.

A very inspiring book!

This book is one of those 'classics' - it will always bring inspiration. The twelve different teachers/teachings which comprise the core of the text - come over as very real, very concrete - and, for all the exotic surfaces (they are, after all, S.E. Asian people) - what they have to say, to teach, is very much here and now. Jack Kornfield writes about these people and teachings with years of experience behind him. Still, he isn't (thank goodness!) trying to sell you an institution.This book has been presented to help you practice, wherever you may be. Of course, on one level - the teachers/teachings in this book are interesting, because they reflect a certain culture and out-look. This is Theravada Buddhism. Sometimes, the Theravada can come over as rather dry. But in 'Living Dharma' - the Theravada teachings seem very fresh and engaging. The reviewer confesses that - in fact, he practices Northern Buddhist meditation techniques. Jack Kornfield observes that - in America, Theravada is a relatively late arrival - against Zen or Tibetan Buddhism. But - in Europe, the Theravada has roots going back decades. My first bona fide Buddhist teacher was a Theravadin, and the Theravada has much to teach - even if you happen to practice Mahayana Buddhism. Far from feeling invidious - I really hope that Buddhists from all backgrounds will look at this book. The teachers are impressive. Their practical advice/instruction - priceless. @

almost the very best source on Theravada Buddhism

This book records the teachings of 12 Theravada Buddhists, mostly famous ones in their own societies: Achaan Chaa, Mahasi Sayadaw, Sunlun Sayadaw (via a disciple), Achaan Buddhadasa, Achaan Naeb, Achaan Maha Boowa, Taungpulu Sayadaw, Mohnyin Sayadaw, Mogok Sayadaw (via a disciple), U Ba Khin, Achaan Dhammadaro, and Achaan Jumnien. These are basically the most famous meditation instructors in Myanmar (Burma), Thailand and Laos. If you want to learn about Theravada meditation, either for scholarly reasons or to practice, you can't do better than this book without learning their languages.However, I think it represents a sort of elite perspective on Theravada Buddhism. Many practitioners don't share exactly the spiritualities expressed by these teachers, and I think their practices and beliefs (some would say superstitions) are an important and valuable part of Theravada Buddhism, not to be neglected by either scholars or practioners.

Theravada in one book

This book although now a little dated, is still brilliant.Here in one book are the many diverse strands of Theravada Meditation, the Thai Forest Ajahns & the Burmese Vipassana Sayadaws are present. The material covers a very broad spectrum of Teachings & approaches. I am loving reading this book.

Great book on different meditation techniques

Explains a little about the Theravaden lineage, then dedicates one chapter to each masters' teachings. Anyone looking for a teacher or technique they like, this is a great book to check out. This book is a must read for anyone who is just starting to learn about Buddhist meditation. It also has some very good question and answer sections.