Freedom from the Known

Krisnamurti urges us to follow a path that runs entirely contrary to modern conditioning. The paradox of modern man lies in the fact that for the first time in human history he has the luxury of time and wealth to find himself, but the certainty that he automatically knows everything that needs knowing. Modern man hides in the forest of the known, secure and out of reach of meaning for his existence. This book is not to be taken lightly, to be read and tossed aside for the next mystery or adventure story. It is not about escape from, but rather about escape to a reality most of humanity hasn't the courage to acknowledge, much less enter to find a different foundation for continuing. It's tempting not to recommend this book at all without a certified statement from prospective buyers to read the words carefully, to examine the phrases and the meaning behind the phrases. If you are unwilling to do so your money will be wasted.

I've read (and re-read) about 15 of K's books. This is the single best, most concise, most thorough of the them all, in my humble opinion. I bought 20 copies of it and gave them all to friends, family, co-workers, and some of my students (I teach at a college). I probably will buy 20 more (at least) of this book to give to others. I would also highly recommend "The First and Last Freedom" and "Total Freedom" for good, more in-depth and relatively thorough overviews of K's teachings; as well as "On God" (for those seeking "god"); "On Relationship" (for those looking for relationship advice); "On Right Livelihood" (for those considering career choices) "On Education" (for teachers and students) and "Think on These Things" or "Life Ahead" as two simply-worded introductions that even children can read and undertand (K was speaking to schoolchildren and their parents). "Krishnamurti's Journal", "Commentaries on Living, First Series", "Krishnamurti's Notebook" and "Krishnamurti to Himself" all offer beautifully poetic descriptions of nature and people, as well as answers to questions, all of which are fabulous for meditation. "Freedom, Love and Action" is a relatively short read compared to most of K's books, but I've found it to be particularly touching. But then, I would *strongly* recommend *all* of K's books for those so inclined! But if I had to pick ONE K book to share with the world (as I have done) THIS is that book. And every time I read it (about half a dozen times now) it speaks volumes every time. But as other reviewers have warned, don't read anything by K unless you are ready and willing to have your entire current belief system cut to shreds, as all your most "sacred" beliefs and values are exposed for the false, conditioned ideas that they are . . .

In book after book, the central message is the same, and yet new appearing. Krishnamurti's challenge is to find yourself rather than follow someone else's path. This may seem rather scary. There's no shortage of churches and groups that will willingly take you in and instruct you in your thinking and doing. And you will emerge thinking another person's thoughts, doing as another thinks you should do.J. Krishnamurti is unique in his writings. Sure, you will find a little inconsistency, and he will even admit to this. He does not claim to know it all. But he does know how to inspire one to search for that which is within and to do so indepently.You will not find immediate answers in Krishnamurti's writing. The answers are to be found in yourself. But this book along with his others will give you the impetus.And this is probably the best "first" book of his to read.

"The world accepts and follows the traditional approach. The primary cause of disorder in ourselves is the seeking of reality promised by another; we mechanically follow somebody who will assure us a comfortable spiritual life." To understand ones self, Krishnamurti believed, is the beginning of wisdom. Understanding is not accepting a description of the view of the world mapped by another no matter how lofty the map maker. Krisnamurti encouraged making your own map:).This book should create a revolution within you. It is the start of a fantastic journey.

This book summarizes the teachings of J. Krishnamurti. If any human being could read one book in their lives this should be the one. After reading the book one can get the sense of immense potential in terms of freedom, love, and joy. One can see for oneself the influence of culture and tradition on our thought process at a fundamental level. One can see how this influence conditions our mind and distorts the perception of facts. At the same time the human mind has an inner demand to be free from this influence. Our desire to be free is pacified by organized religions, gurus, psychologists, and propaganda by the politicians. However, it does not die until an answer is found. So, if the desire to be free is present even the minutest of forms then this book can be a true beginning in life of freedom and happiness.