Reviews

Being Nobody, Going Nowhere: Meditations on the Buddhist Path by Ayya Khema, Zoketsu Norman Fischer

jaipal's review against another edition

5.0

This is a book that's easy to read. The author clearly explains the goal for every person to achieve, the steps to get there and the reason everyone should be striving to achieve it.

It is simply to meditate until we experience the truth of our existence by ourselves. There is a clear distinction between academic (logical) understanding and emotional understanding. Meditation is the bridge that links the two together.

If you're an experienced meditator, the book is a reminder that we still haven't reached out goal. For everyone else, it's saying we should start on our journey, now instead of later.

I highly recommend this easy to read book, especially if you're interested in meditation. This book is not a technical meditation book though but it's important in a different way. It tells us why we should meditate and gives us the motivation to meditate.

hayleysreads's review against another edition

challenging informative reflective slow-paced

3.75

Good book, accessible ideas and concepts and teachings, at points im feels dismissive of the structural or systemic barriers in the world that may be there for some people - I really got a lot from it. Not as deep a connection or resonance as with other books, but maybe because it is Theravadan tradition, and also maybe it is a guide, a key point of the book is you taking your own journey and insights from yourself, not external attachment - including to teachings on Buddhism. 

joraud's review against another edition

challenging informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

4.5

taurilaane's review against another edition

5.0

One of the best books this year so far. I have never understood meditations, but this book explained that it was most of the world, that got it wrong. Meditation is not attaining peace and comfort in quiet... But training, full of effort. This is all to logical for me. Already 10-20 minutes into this book I had many "Aha!" moments. On the downside, the book gives it's way as the only way. It's truth as the only truth. I would have preferred it laying out one example and recommend it.

danarama's review

5.0

Ayya Khema gives me the impression from her books that she was a no-nonsense, stern but kind Buddhist grandmother. Great overview of Theravadan practice and this'll be one to reread several times.