BOOK REVIEW: The 3 most helpful books

I have been reading predominantly in the field of Buddhist literature for around one and a half years, now. Three books stand out as having been of great help to me personally, with both theory and practice. Whereas these might not be helpful to the average Westerner, as practices and understandings vary and I assume I have done much study in previous lives, they are key assistance in my own practice. Additionally, several books by the Dalai Lama have also given me fodder for study and meditational practice, along with various other books helping in lesser ways.

The most valuable book to my personal practice is the biography of Acariya Mun. (This is available as a free downloadable e-book if anyone is interested, from www.forestdhammabooks.com) It may appear rather boring or rather chaotic, somewhat foreign or somewhat crazy to the average Westerner; however, it deals with matters that I personally needed assistance with. For example, Acariya Mun reportedly had a natural tendency for a runaway citta, which is also my own experience. By reading of his method for focusing and concentrating on his body pieces to restrain the mind from its adventurous tendencies, I was able to control my own. The book talks of the entire monk-tide life of a vivid, strong personality, along with covering some of his techniques and personal teachings. From reading this book, I have personally advanced much, including being able to rapidly comprehend and experience the dharma and work on natural mindful ways to alleviate pain and hunger. It is the book which introduced me to the Thai Dhutanga teachings which have helped me a great deal in my personal practice.

Secondly, a book which I have recently re-read, finding another deeper layer of advancement in theory and understanding each time I read the book, is The Light Of Wisdom by Jayantha Ruberu. Once again, it is printed for free distribution, though I do not have a web address at which you can obtain a copy if interested. However, the ISBN is 955-9419-20-X and it is printed by Sridevi printers (Pvt) Ltd in Sri Lanka. The book covers basic theory such as the 4 noble truths and meditation techniques and offers useful guidance to those who are spiritually evolved. (I would class myself as spiritually advanced, average of practice ability, but poor in ceremonial etiquette.) It would appeal to those interested in the philosophy and theory, aimed at bringing about realization and experience. I plan to read the book once each year, learning deeper truths each time.

A third book which stands out to my personal practice is Awakening the Buddha Within by Lama Surya Das. Once again, it is a book that I have read a few times already and I find new meaning and levels of comprehension each time. This book is more likely to appeal to a Western audience, as the author grew up in USA before experiencing Eastern Buddhist teachings and returning to the West to spread the teachings further. The author follows the Tibetan Vajrayana/Dzochen tradition, which is the second style of Buddhism which seems to be relevant to my personal practice.