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The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1992

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Book Brief

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Sogyal Rinpoche

The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1992
Book Details
Pages

425

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

1990s

Publication Year

1992

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying by Sogyal Rinpoche offers a comprehensive guide to Tibetan Buddhist teachings on death, dying, and rebirth. Drawing from both Eastern and Western perspectives, Rinpoche elaborates on concepts such as impermanence, the nature of the mind (Rigpa), and the bardos (transitional states). Through meditation practices and compassionate care, the book aims to prepare individuals for death, assist the dying, and support the bereaved. The book includes detailed discussions on the death process, the nature of consciousness, and the opportunities for spiritual liberation at life's end. Sensitive topics such as death and dying are central to this text.

Informative

Contemplative

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

4.4

33,654 ratings

81%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Sogyal Rinpoche's The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying garners praise for its profound insights on life and death, blending Tibetan Buddhist teachings with accessible language. Readers appreciate its spiritual guidance and practicality. Criticism centers on the author's controversial personal history, which clouds the reception of the book's messages for some.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying?

A reader who enjoys The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying by Sogyal Rinpoche is likely interested in spirituality, Buddhist philosophy, and contemplative practices related to life and death. Comparable works include The Art of Happiness by the Dalai Lama and The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle.

4.4

33,654 ratings

81%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Sogyal Rinpoche

A pivotal figure in bringing Tibetan Buddhism to the West, recognized as the reincarnation of Tertön Sogyal. His teachings and writings, particularly on death and dying, draw from the wisdom of Tibetan Buddhism and his experiences with his master, Jamyang Khyentse.

The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, contributes the Foreword, lending authority and context to the teachings within the book. His themes of compassion and understanding the nature of the mind resonate throughout the work.

Siddhartha Gautama, the foundational figure of Buddhism, whose teachings on impermanence, suffering, and enlightenment underpin the book’s exploration of death as an opportunity for spiritual awakening.

A prominent Tibetan Buddhist teacher and Rinpoche’s master, known for his wisdom and humility. He exemplifies the compassionate care and guidance Rinpoche advocates for in the master-disciple relationship within his teachings.

Book Details
Pages

425

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

1990s

Publication Year

1992

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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