Synopsis
This is the first-ever guide to provide
detailed information about a variety of meditation methods
from many of the world's cultivation schools. These methods
are designed to help the meditator attain samadhi, the
crux of spiritual development.
Most
masters teach only one or two cultivation methods, however
Bodri and Lee include a healthy list of 25 different techniques,
including: the Drinking of Life methods practiced by the
first Indian Zen master; the White-Boned Skeleton visualization;
the bardo yogas and dream yoga practice of Tibetan Tantra;
the classical Hatha Yoga method of Pranayama breath cessation;
and the "left hand" sexual yoga practices of
Taoism.
Each
cultivation method is explained thoroughly in terms relative
to the overall goals of the cultivation paths, and in
reference to the terminology of various schools in order
to show the interrelationship between the different paths
to enlightenment. Buddhist techniques can be explained
through Taoist principles, Christian techniques through
Hindu principles, and so on. No single book has ever discussed
so many techniques, as well as how they fit into the overall
stages of the cultivation path.
The
authors give the scientific basis behind the samadhi techniques,
as well as their potentional stages of accomplishment
and an extensive list of recommended references. This
is an excellent book for individuals who want to find
an appropriate meditation technique. Teachers can use
it to make sense of the seemingly conflicting information
that is present regarding the path to spiritual enlightenment.