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Reviews (1)
15 September 2007
Sogyal Rinpoche's endorsement of Compassionate Action
"Kyabje Chatral Rinpoche studied under some of the greatest masters of the previous century, and ranks today as the senior-most teacher of the Dzogchen lineage. He is renowned throughout the Tibetan community as a steadfast guardian of the Buddhist tradition and a highly accomplished, legendary adept, who--like the great sages and hermits of the past--has spent much of his life in retreat, practicing meditation and granting teachings only sparingly to a few committed disciples.
"It is truly wonderful therefore that we now have this precious collection of his teachings and advice capably translated into English, enabling many more people to benefit from his boundless wisdom and compassion. Here, in these poetic writings and recorded interviews, Rinpoche imparts his instructions in a forthright and elegant style and reveals his deep commitment to Buddhist ethics, his dedication to non-violence and preserving life, and above all, his total dedication to the authentic teachings of Lord Buddha and Guru Padmasambhava."
--Sogyal Rinpoche, author of The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying.
"I've read many dharma books in the last few years, and this is one of my two favorites. Chatral Rinpoche is an amazing teacher, one whose impact on the Buddhist world will be felt for many generations to come. I knew very little about him before, but after reading COMPASSIONATE ACTION I now have profound respect for him and the good work he does for all living beings.
Zach Larson has done a wonderful job editing the book. It's clear and concise, and full of great stories about Rinpoche's life and times. There are also many photos of Rinpoche, his family, and other eminent teachers. Included in the text of the book are several teachings given by Rinpoche that I found deeply moving.
"I highly recommend COMPASSIONATE ACTION. It's a book that you'll easily read several times.
"Oh, my other favorite is WORDS OF MY PERFECT TEACHER. I'll have both of these books with me for the remainder of this life time."
--Rick Adkins
"Compassionate Action is the first English-language book of Himalayan yogi Chatral Rinpoche, who has influenced Western Buddhist consciousness for decades and was dubbed "the greatest man I ever met" by Father Thomas Merton in 1968. Presenting Chatral Rinpoche's biography and autobiography, six of his essays, five prayers that he wrote, an exclusive interview, and color photographs from the different phases of his life, Compassionate Action is a "must-read" for anyone seeking to learn from this quintessential wise and holy man. "Conscious abstention from hunting and killing living beings, besides inspiring others to do the same, are actions behooving the kind-hearted and pious. For instance, the milk of human kindness requires us to not harm migratory birds in any way, such as casting stones or nets or shooting them while they are resting for brief moments in the course of their long journey from one country or continent to another. On the contrary, we should provide help to them in all possible ways before they reach their final destination." Highly recommended especially for students and practitioners of Buddhism."
--Midwest Book Review