The Tibetan Book of the Dead: Liberation Through Understanding in the Between

This was an excellent overview of the afterlife, and the possibilities in the afterlife, according to Tibetan Buddhism. Robert Thurman makes an excellent case for the existence of the afterlife, in response to hard-core materialists, who belief consciousness ends with the death of the brain. I believe this is mandatory reading for anyone facing a life-threatening illness. It is very comforting at the very least, and also empowering to know we can choose our next existence if we are prepared. I had a near death experience years ago, and reading this helped so much to give validity to what I saw and experienced, in my case, in a Christian context. Robert Thurman is open-minded, and so, explains such experiences as relative to the culture you are raised in, for example, my vision of Christ as a symbol of compassion in the subconscious. This is an excellent book, filled not only with intellectual rigor and well-made arguments, but also a humble and knowing wisdom. One caveat, some of the reading gets very difficult, reflecting the depth of the author's knowledge in Buddhism. Some background in Buddhism may be necessary, and certainly would help.

I love Robert Thurman's illustrative annotations and beautiful intro to this incredibly important sacred text. I also highly recommend the audio versions of his works. He has a very colorful and creative feel to his explanations. His own teacher is the Dalai Lama himself and his western perspective, lifetime of study, and beautiful command of language makes for a powerful combination.

One of the best books I have ever read. I can honestly say this book has changed how I think and in turn how I live. I have found more peace and happiness in life and no longer strive for the conquest of purchasing happiness through materialistic possessions. I strongly recommend this book to anyone wanting to better their understanding of reality. No matter what your race, origin or religious views this book and the teachings of Buddhism can help you in reaching bliss and helping those around you. Truley a great book to own.

My husband and I have been serious students and practitioners of Tibetan Mahayana Buddhism for years, studying with various highly qualified teachers and high ranking Tibetan lamas. While none of the concepts presented by Professor Thurman in this book, relative to Buddhist teachings, are new to us, his translation and commentaries are so crystal clear so as further deepened our understanding. This is a book that brings ancient Buddhist teaching alive and relevant to our times.Thank you Professor Thurman, for this book, which we have been using as a guide to do Powa for our beloved recently departed grandmother, and thank you for all your tireless efforts to uplift the collective consciousness by promoting the wisdom of Tibetan Buddhism.

"Hey! Now when the reality between dawns upon me, I will let go of the hallucinations of instinctive terror, enter the recognition of all objects as my mind's own visions..." - page 132The Tibetan Book of the Dead is a very thoughtful read, appealing both to the reader's spiritual and philosophical sides. Part introduction to Tibetan history and culture, part manual of incantations for the late and the still living, this book helps the reader understand the Tibetan philosophical conception of life and death and the Tibetan science of the world in between. Naturally, the reader needs to approach this book with an open mind, since it is expected that the reader not be familiar with the more esoteric intricacies of Tibetan thought. One note of caution: the Tibetan Book of the Dead is not meant to be read once. Instead, it is meant to be explored multiple times, because there are many details that escape the reader upon the first read.

A must read for everyone serious about Tibetan Buddhism. Translated by a westerner into language I had no problem with. Even if you're not into Tibetan Buddhism for the practice, I highly recommend it.

An incredible enriching and absolutely recommendable read! If you want to know about life and how to prepare for death, this is what you need.

This book is a hard read but the first section's translation makes it easier to understand the choices we have in this lifetime and how we can alter our life for the better.

Profound & deep understanding of life revialed by authur ,just great translation ,every humun being needed this profound knwodge

Robert Thurman is amazing. A book that we must have to study all life.

Just started the book but already sighing with relief that it speaks to me in a language I can process. Thank you, Mr. Thurman for what must be decades of dedication! Truly spectacular.

I am not going to comment on the book itself ‘The Tibetan Book of the Dead’ since so much has already been written on the book. I do however, want to comment on the version I have bought, the Thurman translation and why. There are other translations of the Tibetan book of the dead, but I like this one by Robert Thurman, his knowledge of Tibetan Buddhism being highly regarded. Thurman reveals the true spirit of the ancient text in a way that reaches modern minds and this is important, if we were to publish any ancient text as originally written very few would grasp the true meaning. Thurman reveals its beauty and purpose and makes it enjoyable and more to the point, comforting, to read. It is a beautiful text, rewardingly revealed by Thurman.