The Bhagavad Gita

Translated by Swami Sivananda

The classical text with Swami Sivananda's commentary.

$19.95

Ashtavakra Gita
(The Song of the Self Supreme) (199 p.)
Translated by Radhakamal Mukerjee

Astavakragita (The Song of the Self Supreme) contains the Sanskrit text of Astavakragita (both in Nagari and Roman script), its English translation, Exegesis and Glossarial Index.

It presents in twenty chapters the substance of Astavakra's teaching in respect of the Cosmic Self in the form of his dialogue with Janaka, the seer-king of Videha.

The teaching is based on the Upanisadic creed of Absolute monism (Advaitvada) that identifies the Self with the non-dual Ultimate Reality. But the contribution of Astavakra is also immense, for he has introduced the element of emotional experience or the mystical feeling as the means for realizing the non-dual nature of the Self.

Written in a lucid style and dealing systematically with the subject matter, the book will hold a unique position among the contemplative classics of the world.

Excerpts from review:
The English translation is faithful to the Sanskrit original and the annotations by the editor are extremely illuminating and helpful. Altogether, this book is a treasure house of Advaita thought and should be in the hands of every sincere student of philosophy.
( P.V. Sivarama Dikshitar, The Hindu. September 29, 1998)

$16

From the preface: "The present work, Kashmir Saivism: The Central Philosophy of Tantrism, however, is meant to be a full exposition of the Tantric systemn, covering all areas of Tantric philosophy. As such, it contains many topics not previously discussed and can be viewed as an elaboration of the earlier work.

"Although the contribution of Tantra to Indian philosophy and culture is of immense significance, little work has been done in this field. Moreover, the Tantras, or Agamas, have something significant and relevant to say to modern humanity. With its positive attitude towards the world and its variety of yogic sadhanas for self-improvement in all respects, Tantra carries a promise of help to people in their present predicament. This makes exposition and elucidation of Tantric insight worthwhile.

"The mystic language of the Tantras and the rich symbolism found therein present difficulties in the exposition of Tantric thought. Abhinavagupta, the principal philosopher of Kashmir Saivism, overcame these difficulties to make a systematic and rational presentation of Tantric wisdom in his famous work, the Tantraloka. This present book is an attempt to understand the Tantric position mainly in light of the Tantraloka."

[Kamalakar Mishra, is a Professor in the Department of Philosophy and Religion at Banaras Hindu University in Varanasi, India. He is the author of The Significance of the Tantric Tradition.]

Contents: Preface. 1. Introduction. 2. Epistemology. 3. Absolute consciousness (Siva-Sakti): I. Siva. II. Sakti. 4. The process of creation. 5. The theory of appearance (Abhasavada). 6. The problem of evil. 7. The concept of pratyabhijna ("Self-recognition"). 8. Bondage and liberation. 9. The means of Moksa. 10. The left-handed doctrine (Kaula Sadhana) and sex sublimation. 11. Conclusion. Notes. Selected bibliography. Index.

$25

The Siva Samhita
Translated by Rai Badadur Srisa Chandra Vasu

The Siva Samhita is a Sanskrit text on yoga enumerating its concepts and cognate principles. In the five chapters are discussed and elaborated the essentials necessary for the practice of yoga, ways of attaining siddhi, the philosophy of existence, importance of
I yoga, the spirit, maya or illusion, the microcosm, the functions of the body, the principles of pranayama or breathing, asanas or postures, the Kunalini and its awakening, the various forms of yoga, etc.
An important treatise on the subject, the present text with its translation into English should prove to be of immense value to the scholars and the students, of the subject.

87 p.
$7.95

The Gheranda Samhita
Translated by Rai Badadur Srisa Chandra Vasu

Hatha- Yoga is one of the most important forms of Yoga in which attempt is made to attain concentration or Samadhi by purification of the body and physical exercises. The Tantrik Sanskrit text Gheranda Samhita, which is in the form of dialogue between the sage Gheranda and an inquirer Chanda Kapali, teaches Yoga under heads or Sadhanas. The book, containing three hundred and fifty verses, is divided into seven chapters, in each of which are given the directions for the purification of the body, Asanas or postures; Mudras, Pratyahara, Pranayama, Dhyana and Samadhi. The present translation of the Gheranda Samhitai from original Sanskrit into English is an important contribution to the literature on Yoga and should be of great use to those interested in the subject.

59 p.
$7.95

Abhinavagupta's Commentary on the Bhagavad Gita
Gitartha Samgraha

Translated by Boris Marjanovic

Abhinavagupta, undoubtedly the greatest genius of India in the fields of philosophy, aesthetics, poetics, dramaturgy, Tantra and mysticism, is being rediscovered only in the last few decades. Although several scholars, in India and abroad, are engaged in studying his works, it is surprising that there are still few translations available.
Abhinavagupta explains in his commentary that he undertook this work because he felt that his predecessors when commenting on the Bhagavad Gita had not understood its secret or esoteric meanings. With the main purpose to explain these esoteric meanings, Abhinavagupta elaborates the secret doctrine of the purification of the sense organs through the alternation of enjoyment of worldly objects and deep meditation. He claims that the continuous exchange of two contradictory experiences, i.e., gratification of the senses which brings satisfaction and samadhi in which sense organs are reduced to one's own atman, quickly brings the highest good.

The great merit of the present translation of Abhinavagupta's "summary of the (real and secret) meaning of the Bhagavad Gita" lies in the following: First, it includes the text and translation of the Kashmiri version of the Bhagavad Gita, which in places differs from the one commented upon by Shankara (there are fifteen additional verses, and many verses partially differ from the verses found in other recensions). Besides, it brings out the specific meanings in the context of Kashmir Shaiva philosophy and yoga, without being influenced by Samkhya or Vedanta. The translation and explanatory notes show a deep understanding of Kashmir Shaiva metaphysics and yoga.
The present work will fulfill an important role by presenting a different version of the Bhagavad Gita in the light of Kashmir Shaivism. It will also be inspiring for anyone interested in the practice of the secret yoga of the Gita.

368 p.
$21.95

Ramayana
C. Rajagopalachari

The classic story in a nice pocket format

$9.95

Mahabharata
C. Rajagopalachari

The classic story in a nice pocket format

$9.95

Tantra: The Path of Ecstasy by Georg Feuerstein

Georg Feuerstein, who is arguably today's foremost Yoga researcher, has given us yet another very valuable book. Tantra: The Art of Ecstasy' is the first nonacademic but sound and well-rounded introduction to the Hindu Tantric heritage since Sir john Woodroff"s pioneering publications ofthe
1920s. It corrects many widespread misconceptions and shows Tantrism to be a complex and intriguing tradition that deserves deeper study. Recommended reading for all students orf Hinduism, Yoga, and spirituality y in general."-PROF. SUBHASH KAK PH.D., author of "India Century's End
And coauthor of" In Search of the Cradle of Civilization

Tantra - often associated with Kundalini Yoga is a fundamental dimension or Hinduism, emphasizing the cultivation of "divine power" (shakti) as a path to infinite bliss. Tantra has been widely misunderstood in the West, however, where its practices are often confusedly with eroticism and licentious morality, Tantra: The Path of Ecstasy dispels many common misconceptions, providing an accessible introduction to the history, philosophy, and practice or this extraordinary spiritual tradition,
The Tantric teachings are geared toward the attainment or enlightenment as well as spiritual powder and are present not only in Hinduism but also Jainism and Vajrayana Buddhism, In this book, Georg Feuerstein offers readers a clear understanding orf authentic Tantra, as well as appropriate guidance for spiritual practice and the attainment of: higher consciousness.

 

Shambhala Publications; (July 1998)
224 p.
$17.95

Hathapradipika of Svatmarama (10 Chapters)

Hatha-pradipika of svatmarama which has exerted a great influence on the practical student and scholars of Yoga was available only in four chapters until now. It is for the first time that Hatha-pradipika containing ten chapters is being published along with the Commentary Yogaprakasika by Balakrsna. It contains additional information on the Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, Samadhi, Kalajnana and Videhamukti. There.is a description of Sadangayoga along the lines of Goraksa.

 

388 p.
$19.95

Opening the Heart of Compassion:
Transform Suffering Through Buddhist Psychology and Practice

In this intriguing book, Martin Lowenthal and Lar Short explain how Buddhism uses the practice of compassion as a way to transcend everyday suffering. They present a helpful and friendly introduction to Buddhist teachings on the habitual ways of thinking and feeling which characterize the six realms of experience. They integrate this ancient knowledge with modern psychological insights to guide readers in their quest for freedom from unnecessary pain. Included are many meditative exercises that will help the reader to achieve a greater understanding of self and of others, and to cultivate joy in daily life. This is a remarkable book that presents a path of spiritual development rooted in creative action guided by compassion.

"This volume not only provides a brilliant presentation of the ancient Buddhist teaching on the 6 realms of experience as they relate to the fundamental predicament of modern man. It also describes the skillful means of a series of simple, clear, but nevertheless profound meditative practices. This is a work of deep understanding and the product of vast practical experience."
-John Mann, Author of Rudi..14 Years with My Teacher

194 pages
$12.95

 

Guru Papers
Masks of Authoritarian Power

Even the devil reads the bible.

Description from the publisher:
This book is a must-read for anyone and everyone who has ANY spiritual belief system. The authors succeed in removing the scales from the eyes of all of us who follow or have followed ministers, spiritual teachers or gurus who are stealing our money or power ... with our unwitting permission! The bottom line is that NO spiritual teaching requires a teacher, minister or guru, only a personal devotion to our chosen belief system and/or scriptural texts, and our own relationship with and understanding of our deity. Get that guru out of your head and out of your wallet! He's a middleman who is more than likely robbing you blind while playing games ... with your life!

by Alstad, Diana; Kramer, Joel
$16.95, 406 pp., ISBN: 1883319005
Frog, Ltd. , 6/1/1993 , Paperback

The Nine Stages of Spiritual Apprenticeship
Understanding the Student-Teacher Relationship

This book explores how associating with a spiritual guide can aid a seeker on the path. Greg Bogart describes all phases of spiritual apprenticeship--from choosing a teacher, initiation, discipleship, testing, guru yoga, and inner awakening, to the stages of separating from a teacher, finding the teacher within, and teaching others. If you are searching for a teacher, The Nine Stages of Spiritual Apprenticeship provides a map of what to expect. If you already have a teacher, this book will help you avoid the pitfalls. If you had a teacher and got burned, this book can help you heal. Of interest to practitioners of all traditions

"Sooner or later every spiritual seeker needs expert guidance on the path. Those who have arrived at this critical juncture will find this book clarifying, balanced, highly readable, and above all helpful. This is the best book available on spiritual apprenticeship and the psychological issues involved."
--Georg Feuerstein, Ph.D., author of Shambhala Encyclopedia of Yoga

"Psychotherapist and yogi Greg Bogart elucidates the path of the spiritual apprentice. Drawing on his experiences with a number of teachers, notably Swami Muktananda, as well as interviews with other students, Bogart explores the subtleties of this special bond. This is a clear, reasoned exposition that will help seekers of all persuasions."
--Yoga Journal, March/April 1998

"Spiritual Apprenticeship is an in-depth, well-documented and passionately written study of the guru-disciple relationship that is sensitive both to traditional views and to the unique concerns of seekers in the West today. In this time of either naive guru worship on one hand, or vengeful guru-bashing on the other, this book provides a welcome voice of balance and clarity."
--Dr. David Frawley, author of Ayurveda and the Mind

250 pages, paperback, ISBN: 0-9639068-5-2, $17.95