The newest translation of the Tibetan Book of the Dead by Gyurme Dorje (Graham Coleman and Thubten Jinpa, ed) is a must-have for dedicated Vajrayana practitioners and anyone else looking for a definitive resource on Tibetan Buddhist end of life practices.

This translation is far more comprehensive than previous translations you may be familiar with that share the same title. This is the first complete translation into English of this important cycle of teachings that was initially revealed by the Tibetan master, Karma Lingpa. Previous translations only covered a subset of these unique teaching, excluding the teachings on; recognizing the ultimate nature of mind, recognizing the signs of impending death, rituals to postpone impending death, a masked play dramatizing the transitions through the intermediate state and the Liberation through Wearing. For the first time, these all are available in English in a single volume.

NEW SUPPLIMENTAL MATERIAL

In addition, valuable supplimental chapters were also included. They added translations describing the traditional Tantric Buddhist preliminary practices as well as another section that introduces the transference of consciousness practice known as Phowa. These practices are mentioned in the original cycle of teachings but are not explained therein. Including those two subjects in this book makes this current work even more comprehensive and enhances it's value as an end-of-life reference.

FOR SHITRO PRACTITIONERS

Aspiring Shitro practitioners will appreciate Appendix 2. It gives the names, location in the mandala, the color and symbolism of each of the 100 peaceful and wrathful deites all laid out in a very convenient table format. Color photos of thangkas for all the peaceful and wrathful deities are included in the book and are clearly labeled. Chapter 5 describes a 'daily practice' of the 100 peaceful and wrathful deities that would certainly be helpful for practitioners that have been introduced to the Shitro practice.

AVAILABLE VERSIONS

There seem to be two versions of this translation available. Both are hard back. The Viking offering is the more affordable and readily available through usual sources in the US. The Penquin classics version is printed on thicker paper, has a more ornate cover and a fabric bookmark. It also takes longer to receive, but, in my opinion, is worth the wait. This version seems to be the one that was first available in Europe.

Thanks go out to our friend Preben for alerting us to the European release of this wonderful new book!