Deity Yoga describes the profound process of meditation in Action and Performance Tantras. It is a invaluable book for anyone who is practicing or interested in Buddhist tantra. It is comprised of three parts: Heart of Mantra by the Dalai Lama is a lucid exposition of the meditative rites of deity yoga-the distinctly tantric process in which yogis visualize themselves in the form of a Buddha's divine body as a manifestation of compassionate wisdom. The Great Exposition of Secret Mantra-parts 2 & 3 by Tsong-ka-pa, details the practices of Action and Performance Tantras. Special deity yoga techniques for the development of the heart, mind and physical form of a Buddha are presented in a coherent series of yogic exercises. The mudras (hand gestures) that accompany the meditations are clearly illustrated. Supplement by Jeffrey Hopkins outlines in detail the structure of Action Tantra practices as well as the need for the development of special yogic powers.
Deity Yoga, H.H. the Dalai Lama, Tsong-kha-pa, Jeffrey Hopkins, Snow Lion Publications, 247pp, $19.95
Tenzin Gyatso was born in Amdo, Tibet in 1935 and was recognized as the fourteenth incarnation in the line of Dalai Lamas. Today he is known the world over as a great spiritual teacher, a tireless worker for peace, and a man with a gift for conveying great truths in a manner accessible to all. Since the Chinese takeover of Tibet in 1959, he has headed the Tibetan government-in-exile from Dharamsala, India.
|