November 2023 MBR The Buddhist Studies Shelf

The Buddhist Studies Shelf

Illumination: A Guide to the Buddhist Method of No-Method
Rebecca Li
Shambhala Publications, Inc.
www.shambhala.com
9781645470892, $21.95, PB, 280pp

https://www.amazon.com/Illumination-Guide-Buddhist-Method-No-Method/dp/164547089X

Synopsis: The Buddhist concept of Silent Illumination is a way of penetrating the mind through curious inquiry. It is an especially potent, accessible, and portable meditation practice perfectly suited for a time when there is so much fear, upheaval, and sorrow in our world. It is a method of reconnecting with our true nature, which encompasses all that exists and where suffering cannot touch us.

The practice of silent illumination is simple, allowing each moment to be experienced as it is in order to manifest our innate wisdom and natural capacity for compassion. It can be integrated into all aspects of daily life and is meaningful for secular and Buddhist audiences, new and seasoned meditators alike.

After guiding readers through the history and practice of silent illumination, in the pages of "Illumination: A Guide to the Buddhist Method of No-Method", Rebecca Li shows us how we can recognize and unlearn our "modes of operation" -- habits of mind that get in the way of being fully present and engaged with life. Cultivating clarity on the empty nature of these habits offers us a way to unlearn and free ourselves from unhelpful modes such as harshness to self, perfectionism, quietism, striving for spiritual attainment, and more.

"Illumination" offers stories and real-life examples, references to classic Buddhist texts, and insights from Chan Master Sheng Yen to guide readers as they practice silent illumination not just on their cushions, but throughout their lives.

Critique: A modern guide to the transformative practice of silent illumination from Chan Buddhist teacher Rebecca Li, "Illumination: A Guide to the Buddhist Method of No-Method" is an impressively informative and thoroughly 'reader friendly' resource for anyone with an interest in Buddhist rituals, practices, traditions, sacred writings, and meditation. While highly recommended, especially for community and college/university Buddhism collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists, as well as students, academia, all members of the Buddhist community, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Illumination: A Guide to the Buddhist Method of No-Method" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.99).

Editorial Note: Rebecca Li (www.rebeccali.org) is a meditation and Dharma teacher in the lineage of Chan Master Sheng Yen and founder and guiding teacher of Chan Dharma Community. She gives Dharma talks and leads Chan retreats in North America and Europe. She is also a sociology professor (The College of New Jersey).

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