The Fruitful Darkness: A Journey Through Buddhist Practice and Tribal Wisdom

by Joan Halifax

Book Overview

In this "masterwork of an authentic spirit person" (Thomas Berry), Buddhist teacher and anthropologist Joan Halifax Roshi delves into "the fruitful darkness"--the shadow side of being, found in the root truths of Native religions, the fecundity of nature, and the stillness of meditation. In this highly personal and insightful odyssey of the heart and mind, she encounters Tibetan Buddhist meditators, Mexican shamans, and Native American elders, among...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0802140718
• ISBN13: 9780802140715
• Release Date: March 2004
• Publisher: Grove Press
• Length: 272 Pages
• Weight: 0.95 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 4.3" x 7.9"

Customer Reviews

One of the best books I have ever read

(and I have read a lot of books!) I am on my second reading, and will soon reread a third time, slowly, taking notes and making my own commentary. Halifax's ability to combine a deep understanding of Buddhism, shamanism, deep ecology, the history of civilization, indigenous cultures is unparalleled - and her understanding is not academic, it has been gained through forty-plus years of experience. This is a book to read slowly, several times, meditating, pondering, and experiencing for oneself what Halifax so profoundly points to.

superb

Joan Halifax accomplishes the ultimate through this great book -- she transmits Buddhism through the heart.

Amazing

It is amazing that this book has never been reviewed (2006). I bought the hardback in 1993 and I still consider it one of my most favorite books ever. It is thoughtful and very well written. It gave me a very good introduction to deep ecology and shamanism. I consider it a must read for those interested in the subject.