Table of Contents

Preface PART ONE: Foundation Introduction What is Meditation? The Benefits of Meditation How to Begin Meditation Background Knowledge Required for Meditation How to Meditate PART TWO: The Twenty-one Meditations the initial scope 1. Our Precious Human Life 2. Death and Impermanence 3. The Dangers of Lower Rebirth 4. Refuge Practice 5. Actions and Their Effects the intermediate scope 6. Developing Renunciation for Samsara the great scope 7. Developing Equanimity 8. Recognizing that all Living Beings are our Mothers 9. Remembering the Kindness of Living Beings 10. Equalizing Self and Others 11. The Disadvantages of Self-cherishing 12. The Advantages of Cherishing Others 13. Exchanging Self with Others 14. Great Compassion 15. Taking 16. Wishing Love 17. Giving 18. Bodhichitta 19. Tranquil Abiding 20. Superior Seeing 21. Relying Upon a Spiritual Guide Conclusion Appendix I : Liberating Prayer and Prayers for Meditation Appendix II: A Commentary to The PreparatoryPractices Appendix III: A Special Breathing Meditation Appendix IV: A Suggested Retreat Schedule Appendix V: The Commitments of Going for Refuge Appendix VI: A Traditional Meditation on Emptiness Appendix VII: The Kadampa Way of Life Glossary Bibliography Study Programmes of Kadampa Buddhism Tharpa Offices Worldwide

About the Author

Geshe Kelsang Gyatso is a fully accomplished meditation master and internationally renowned teacher of Buddhism who has pioneered the introduction of modern Buddhism into contemporary society. He is the author of 22 highly acclaimed books that perfectly transmit the ancient wisdom of Buddhism to our modern world. He has also founded over 1200 Kadampa Buddhist Centres and groups throughout the world.

Reviews

Illuminates the enormous potential for peace and happiness within us all. - Kathleen Dowling Singh, PhD, psychologist/author; A profound illumination of our human experience and our potential for deep inner freedom. - Arturo Sanchez, Professor, Columbia University; This insightful book offers peace of mind in these troubled times. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking happiness or greater meaning in their lives. - Thomas Mitchell, Professor/author, Indiana University; One can instantly sense the value of this book. It is designed as a straightforward handbook for those wishing to use the tool of meditation. The book shines. - The New Humanity; An excellent introductory guide to meditation and manual for those who wish to start practising. - World Religions in Education; The author both delights in and has a profound insight into the dynamics of these meditation techniques.- Tibetan Review