The Fruitful Darkness: A Journey Through Buddhist Practice and Tribal Wisdom
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Book Overview
In this "masterwork of an authentic spirit person" (Thomas Berry), Buddhist teacher and anthropologist Joan Halifax Roshi delves into "the fruitful darkness"--the shadow side of being, found in the root truths of Native religions, the fecundity of nature, and the stillness of meditation. In this highly personal and insightful odyssey of the heart and mind, she encounters Tibetan Buddhist meditators, Mexican shamans, and Native American elders, among others. In rapt prose, she recounts her explorations--from Japanese Zen meditation to hallucinogenic plants, from the Dogon people of Mali to the Mayan rain forest, all the while creating an adventure of the spirit and a feast of wisdom old and new" (Peter Matthiessen). Halifax believes that deep ecology (which attempts to fuse environmental awareness with spiritual values) works in tandem with Buddhism and shamanism to discover "the interconnectedness of all life," and to regain life's sacredness. Grove Press is proud to reissue this important work by one of Buddhism's leading contemporary teachers.
Format:Paperback
Language:English
ISBN:0802140718
ISBN13:9780802140715
Release Date:March 2004
Publisher:Grove Press
Length:272 Pages
Weight:0.52 lbs.
Dimensions:0.8" x 4.3" x 7.9"
Customer Reviews
3 ratings
One of the best books I have ever read
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 17 years ago
(and I have read a lot of books!) I am on my second reading, and will soon reread a third time, slowly, taking notes and making my own commentary. Halifax's ability to combine a deep understanding of Buddhism, shamanism, deep ecology, the history of civilization, indigenous cultures is unparalleled - and her understanding is not academic, it has been gained through forty-plus years of experience. This is a book to read slowly, several times, meditating, pondering, and experiencing for oneself what Halifax so profoundly points to.
superb
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 17 years ago
Joan Halifax accomplishes the ultimate through this great book -- she transmits Buddhism through the heart.
Amazing
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 19 years ago
It is amazing that this book has never been reviewed (2006). I bought the hardback in 1993 and I still consider it one of my most favorite books ever. It is thoughtful and very well written. It gave me a very good introduction to deep ecology and shamanism. I consider it a must read for those interested in the subject.
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