John Blofeld (1913–1987)

Another very informative and colorful presentation in the Time-Life Great Cities series. The region and civilization covered here is in itself a fascinating one, and the relative success of Thailand in economic and developmental terms, makes it an interesting case study in regional contrasts and comparisons (although it is quite dated). As in some other volumes in this series, one facet which is becoming more and more evident to me is the limitation imposed by the writer coming from a completely different part of the world, here the West, with its own baggage of religious and cultural backgrounds. To the average westerner, the relatively laid-back temperament of the people, the tolerance of other cultures and life forms, the 'fantastic' (in the colonial sense) carvings and sculptures on the ornate temples with their exaggerated curved roofs and gargoyle-infested gables, the general lack of structure, all combine to produce a sort of mystification, if not stupefaction. It occurred to me how much easier it is for me, as an Indian and a Hindu, to relate to much of this seeming medley, and I am somewhat surprised as to why India (and Indians in general) have not maintained a closer relationship with these countries of Southeast Asia that have developed so many ideas and art forms in their own way and added to the richness of this civilization.… (mer)

What has Eastern mysticism to offer the west? How can we free ourselves from the pressures of modern life, or benefit from eastern methods of cultivating the sublime mystical experience?

Throughout John Blofeld's new book runs the theme that true mystics transcend religious boundaries-and that Eastern mysticism has increasing relavance for the troubled minds and spirits of the West. Blofeld's approach is a highly personal one, based on encounters with monks, lamas, and recluses in their mountain retreats. He also includes a vivid description of the Chinese religious scene and chapters on the mystical practices of Taoism, Ch'an (Zen), and the Tantric Buddhims of Tibet.

During forty years spent in Asia John Blofeld has stayed in Chinese and Tibetan monasteries and made personal contact with many Buddhist and Taoist masters of yoga and meditaton. His study of Eastern religions led to his interpreting the ancient tradition of the Far East for Western readers. Among Blofeld's best known writings are his famous translation of I Ching (The Book of Change), The Tantric Mysticism of Tibet, and The Secret and Sublime (a vivid account of the mysteries and magic of Taoism).

Contents

Acknwledgements
Preface
1 The Wish-fulfilling gem
2 Remnants of the three teachings
3 The path of observation and acceptance
4 The path of faith and compassion
5 The path of learning
6 The path of meditation
7 The esoteric path
8 Remedies for discontent?
Short glossary… (mer)