(177 pp., North Atlantic Books, 2007)

Here is an introduction to the Buddha’s path without the standard spiritual jargon or even much Pali terminology. Ophuls gives us a no-nonsense, commonsense tour of mindfulness-based meditation practice, pointing out contradictions and pitfalls, and laughing at our pretensions. At one point he writes, “Meditation is so simple, natural, and easy that you can’t possibly do it.” At another juncture, while exploring the hindrances, Ophuls announces, “It’s time for a nice refreshing dip in the cesspool of your id.” This book will help you swim to the other shore.

∞

From the Fall 2007 issue of Inquiring Mind (Vol. 24, No. 1)

© 2007 Wes Nisker