The Tibetan Book of the Dead (Book and Audio-CD Set) (Book and CD)

Features

• Cover Type: Paperback with 192 pages
• Published by: Shambhala November 6, 2007
• Written in: English
• ISBN 10 Number: 1590304772
• ISBN 13 Number: 978-1590304778
• Book Dimensions: 7.6 x 5.4 x 0.7 inches
• Weighs: 14.9 ounces

From AudioFile
THE TIBETAN BOOK OF THE DEAD, a traditional Buddhist scripture, is read to the dead or dying to facilitate liberation during the process of death. Both print and audio versions of the translation are included in this production and should be well received by scholars and experienced practitioners. In the introduction Fremantle explains that anyone listening with an open heart and mind will benefit from the text. However, those new to Buddhism may feel slightly overwhelmed with the terminology and discussion of multiple deities. Although Gere's voice is well known, it never distracts from the material. He does a masterful job narrating with clarity and a calm tone. The Tibetan words roll effortlessly off his tongue. It's hard to imagine a better performance. J.T. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine-- Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine

Product Description
To listen to an audio excerpt online in MP3 format, click here.

In this classic scripture of Tibetan Buddhism—traditionally read aloud to the dying to help them attain liberation—death and rebirth are seen as a process that provides an opportunity to recognize the true nature of mind.

This book-and-audio set offers a new way to encounter the profound meaning of this sacred text. The package contains a complete edition of The Tibetan Book of the Dead with an introduction by Francesca Fremantle and insightful commentary by Chögyam Trungpa, written in clear concise language, that explains the text and offers a psychological perspective on its teachings.

Also included here is a set of three audio CDs with an introduction by Fremantle and a translation of The Tibetan Book of the Dead, both read by the actor Richard Gere.

3 CDs, with a 192-page book

Reader Reviews
I'm new to Buddhism, about to attend my first Dzogchen Retreat, and was advised to read this text. I selected this version not because of how much I admire the talent of Richard Gere the actor, but because of hearing about Richard Gere the philanthropist who donates proceeds to build Buddhist shrines--thus epitomizing the Bodhisattva vow, Even if I become rich and famous, I will wisely shun conceit; worldly fortune is without essence. I found that the audio CD is compellingly yet relaxingly performed. His voice is subdued, yet retains the elocution evidenced in his worldly artistry. His expertise with cadence and tone and using them to render continually interesting the rather repetitive text allows the repetitive parts to do their work: to sink in and to generate images and thoughts, rather than float by unretained. In such a way he effectively utilizes the Buddhist science of prosody. Material that could have felt droning or intimidating in written form thus was rendered accessible and even fascinating in audio form.