How To Attain Enlightenment
The Vision of Nonduality
By James Swartz
Published by: Sentient Publications LLC
Price: $15.95
ISBN 978-1-59181-094-0
More details from Sentient Publications
In the introduction James Swartz states that these are not the philosophy, beliefs or opinions of himself or that of some mythical sage but the ancient science of knowledge.
In that respect you are not going to learn it all in one reading, you need to treat it as a reference book, as a bible of self knowledge, therefore, you will need to go back to it time and again to assimilate and digest the concepts involved. The book is subtitled The Vision of Nonduality, that is the combination of object and subject that merge into one experience that is going to last for some time.
If I have any criticism of this excellent book it is that I expected a full chapter on what this concept actually meant, however, it is fully explained throughout the book. It is important to grasp this principle in the early on in the book in order to fully understand the following chapters.
I like the way the book explains the means by which we acquire knowledge, the qualifications needed and the obstructions that existence within ourselves and the society in which we live. James Swartz makes a point in many other spiritual philosophies that we need to deal with the ego to achieve any state of enlightenment or be of any use to others. The book is not all philosophy; there is a very useful chapter on practicing meditation practice.
There are two things that puts this book in the realms of ‘reality’ by anyone’s perception of what that means are firstly, lifestyle and in particular diet and lifestyle. On these issues James Swartz offers some very sound advice from a spiritual perspective that can really help people live a full and active life particularly in their later years. He makes the point that enlightenment is not just in the mind, you have to live it and do it as a fundamental human right.
The second, is the concept of ‘enlightenment sickness’ a symptom of this is where people feel the need to” live the wisdom of love each moment”. What made me smile was the comment, “If you believe that your words are gospel and that your deeds, whether or not they correspond to common sense and reason or whether they are in harmony with dharma and tradition, are a teaching stratagem, you need help.”
This book or what I would describe as an enlightenment seekers bible is essential reading for anyone going down a spiritual path, for it is both enlightening and grounding. I am pleased that I received this book for review as it is something that I will read many times over. 5 stars and highly recommended.
Trevor Mayes
Owner and founder of The New Age Blog
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