A Beginner's Guide to Tibetan Buddhism - Practice, Community & Progress on the Path

A real-world guide to the seemingly other-worldly tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. Millions outside of Asia become curious about Tibetan Buddhism through hearing and being touched by the words of the Dalai Lama, reading a book about Tibet, seeing images, or watching films.

Many who are curious about Buddhist ideas eventually find themselves reaching a point where they are exposed to aspects of Tibetan Buddhism but are unsure what participating in the tradition and its practices entails.

In this warm, candid, and practical guide from longtime practitioner, Bruce Newman offers guidance on the role of a teacher and finding one that is a good match; a clear explanation of what initiation means; how to approach practice in community; and a comprehensive outline of Tibetan Buddhist practices done both on and off the cushion. Special emphasis is placed on the potential pitfalls - and the marvelous benefits - of the guru-disciple relationship.

Bruce Newman has studied and practiced Tibetan Buddhism, mostly in the Kagyu and Nyingma traditions, for almost thirty years. He spent eleven years in India and Nepal studying under his primary teacher, Venerable Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche. He also completed a four-year retreat at Kagyu Samye Ling in Scotland. For the past ten years, he has been practicing and teaching under the guidance of Venerable Gyatrul Rinpoche in Ashland, Oregon.