Editorial Reviews  
Amazon.com  
In this highly readable collection, Robert Thurman brings together the jewels of Tibetan literature that have made their own distinctive contribution to "the great river of Buddhism." He introduces the selection with an overview of essential Buddhist thought, orienting the reader with a history of Buddhism's development, from its origins in India, expansion across Asia, and flowering on Tibetan soil. Explaining the distinctive attainment of Tibetan Buddhist civilization as "the vivid sense of Buddhas in ordinary, daily reality," Thurman guides readers through selections that speak to the possibility of liberation for all beings. Stressing also the importance of the teacher or mentor figure in Tibetan Buddhist practice, he presents key texts from teachers whose words serve as inspiration to those seeking the path toward enlightenment. Excerpts culled from the vastness of the Tibetan canon include the hymns to the liberator goddess Tara, pieces from The Tibetan Book of the Dead, writings on mentor worship from the first Panchen Lama, and selections from esoteric tantric practice texts. The volume ends with the 1989 Nobel Peace Prize lecture by Dalai Lama Tenzin Gyatso, illustrating the enduring relevance of this ancient wisdom for modern life. --Uma Kukathas 

Book Description  
Winner of the Tricycle Prize for Excellence. A vibrant, accessible introduction to the heart of Tibetan Buddhism through it's own rich literature from "the most visible and charismatic exponent of Tibetan Buddhism" (Robert Kamenetz, New York Times Magazine. Expertly and lucidly surveying the basic varieties and teachings of Tibetan Buddhism, renowned scholar Robert Thurman makes this authentic spiritual tradition available to contemporary Western audiences as never before. The very first collection of key Tibetan teachings on Buddhism and attaining enlightenment, Essential Tibetan Buddhism includes all the vital texts, freshly translated. 

Synopsis  
The foremost Western scholar of Tibetan Buddhism--and the first American Tibetan Buddhist monk--presents the heart of Tibetan Buddhism through its own vibrant literature. The work includes a glossary, explanatory notes, suggested further reading, and directory of monasteries, sacred sites, and key teachers. Map. 

Synopsis  
Written by the first American Tibetan Buddhist monk, a guide for general readers explains the core beliefs, traditions, and movements of Tibetan Buddhism and presents excerpts from Buddhist scripture. Reprint. 15,000 first printing. 

About the Author  
Robert A.F. Thurman, the Jey Tsong Khapa Professor of Indo-Tibetan Studies at Columbia University, "is a prolific translator and writer, a powerful advocate for the liberation of Tibet and the Dalai Lama's cultural liaison to America" (New York Times Magazine). His books include a new translation of The Tibetan Book of the Dead and Inside Tibetan Buddhism.