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Rating: 
Summary: Technical Multi-Level
Review: Definitely the most MULTI-LEVEL meditation practice book on the market, for both beginners and good as a reference work for the more experienced. Clearly written, nicely avoiding doctrinal issues. The methods under dicussion are the entire menu of Theravadin techniques, "the four Dhyanas", "The Four Immeasurables" (Metta, etc.), and some more specialized comtemplations.Technically flawless. Clever topic development. A few pages of intro, right into Dhyana practice, then some tips on sitting posture and stretching exercises, then the Immeasurable contemplations. Nicely balanced with remarks on the relationship of meditation to the conduct of daily life.
Rating:
Summary: Technical Multi-Level
Review: Definitely the most MULTI-LEVEL meditation practice book on the market, for both beginners and good as a reference work for the more experienced. Clearly written, nicely avoiding doctrinal issues. The methods under dicussion are the entire menu of Theravadin techniques, "the four Dhyanas", "The Four Immeasurables" (Metta, etc.), and some more specialized comtemplations. Technically flawless. Clever topic development. A few pages of intro, right into Dhyana practice, then some tips on sitting posture and stretching exercises, then the Immeasurable contemplations. Nicely balanced with remarks on the relationship of meditation to the conduct of daily life.
Rating:
Summary: Practical resource for meditators of any level of experience
Review: I have been meditating for many years and frequently use this books as a refence. It includes tips on dealing with hindrances in meditation, posture advice, how to encourage positive mental states, etc. I bought it 2 years ago and still use it regularly.
Rating:
Summary: Here comes Enlightenment!
Review: There are three types of spiritual and meditation books about. Firstly, and sadly most prolific, are New-Ageist one's. Such books are mindless and written by people in search of a 'high' and who have no real philosophic drive, Buddhist or otherwise. Then there are excellent and genuine thought provoking books such a 'Zen Mind Beginner's Mind' by Suzuki and 'Think on These Things' by Krishnamurti. But sadly, even these great books are often not much use to those wishing to establish a meditation practice and to those feeling the first, primary twinges of spiritual and philosophic introspection. Fortunately for such people, this book exists. It is perfect for those interested in starting meditation and finding a true understanding of Buddhism, an understanding that is beyond the intellectual. Each step of the way Kamalashila covers all aspects of meditation, from just sitting, posture and concentration of breath. He then moves on to reflection of the mind, recognition of the hindrances and the creation of there opposites. Then, he covers in great clarity and detail, the cultivation of Metta (friendliness and love, but not in a sick sentimental manner) and various forms of Vippassana meditation (ultimately true meditation) such as an observation on impermenance, conditionality, cause and effect and the confusion of such concept as life and death. This book is genuine, beautiful, thorough, very well written and extremely wise. For anybody wishing to establish a meditation practice or even gain help with their existing practice I recommend this above all others. Truly wonderful.
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