Meditation Techniques of the Buddhist and Taoist Masters

By Daniel Odier

A guide to the mental disciplines and visualizations that Masters have used for ages in their quest for illumination. * An insider's view of specific meditation techniques and the steps necessary for a wide variety of * Buddhist and Taoist meditation practices. * By the author of Tantric Quest (15,000 sold) and Desire: The Tantric Path to Awakening . The esoteric practices followed in the quest for divinity generally remain a secret to the world--kept cloistered away for only the most ascetic practitioners. Now Daniel Odier, having immersed himself in the life and spiritual practices of Buddhist and Taoist monasteries throughout India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Japan, reveals actual teachings passed on by the sages who are living expressions of their tradition. Looking beyond doctrine, dogma, and philosophical treatises that ignore direct experiences of the practice, Odier provides a direct path to the heart of the religious experience that can be discovered through meditation. Beginning with the simple and fundamental steps necessary to prepare for meditation, Odier guides the reader through the specifics of the mental disciplines and visualizations that Buddhist and Taoist masters have used for ages in their quest for illumination. To devote oneself to meditation, in the sense understood by Buddhists and Taoists, is to realize the understanding of how every fiber of our being converges with all creation. Meditation Techniques of the Buddhist and Taoist Masters is a valuable guide to all who are in search of that realization.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0892819677
• ISBN13: 9780892819676
• Release Date: January 2003
• Publisher: Inner Traditions International
• Length: 192 Pages
• Weight: 0.57 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.1" x 9.2"

Customer Reviews

Unknown Gem of Eastern Traditions

Although it seems fairly obscure, this book is surprisingly deep and incisive, considering many of its texts were translated from the original (Eastern) language to French to English. It is, however, extremely concise and creatively written. Unlike most books on Eastern traditions, it skips the fancy God-talk, and the flowery "Oriental" mystical language. It describes the paths of meditation and liberation very simply and in a raw, truthful style. I recommend to anyone interested in significant spiritual development. -Theo Karpowicz, age 19

Experience counts!

Bearing in mind that there are many concepts translated from Tibetan into French, and then into English, the slight awkwardness in language can sound a little "preachy", but it does not diminish the value of the book. What makes the book really worth reading, is the fact that it is based on first-hand knowledge and experience. The author understands both theory and practice. There are a multitude of books out there by Orientalists & New-Agers that describe techniques from a very superficial perspective. Odier is clear about the real psychological dangers of such an aproach, and the need for long gradual practice and guidance. I would recommend this book to anyone serious about meditation practice, and spiritual development.