The Crystal and the Way of Light: Sutra, Tantra, and Dzogchen (Tibetan Buddhist Philosophy) Paperback – October 1, 1999

I have been a student of philosophy and spirituality for many years. This book is one of my favorites. It is written by a great Tibetan master. He isn't just a great scholar, but one who is definitely an enlightened master in his own right.Dzogchen is a Tibetan Buddhist path to awakening originating in the Himalayan region many centuries ago. Its essence is Buddhist, but its terminology is different. Namkhai Norbu explains Dzogchen in a very clear and lucid manner. If you are interested in spirituality, psychology, Buddhism, or mysticism, then this book is a must have. Perhaps you will decide to choose Dzogchen as your path. Or at least you will learn something about such a wonderful and profound lineage.

This is a book for those that want to go all the way, and likes the shortest way. Reminds me of gnosticism, mysticism as well as shamanism from other parts of the world. I bought this book after having read 'Dzogchen - The Self-Perfected State' because the author suggested it on a homepage. Norbu explains relatively easily, despite lots of terms has been translated from Tibetan and Sanskrit. In Western terminalogy we could maybe call this psychology or philosophy of mind, but we are taken deeper than we are used to compared to western standards, just my humble opinion. Now I have to go, I am looking for a master.

I recommend this book to anyone looking for an easy-to-read and enjoyable introduction to Dzogchen teachings, or even anyone who enjoys reading about life in a largely pre-modern, but, in its own way, advanced and sophisticated Asian society. A unique auto-biography by a unique Tibetan master.

The best ever book about the nature of universe, reality and existence from the surprisignly different angle, written in a very easy language :-)Highly recommended to everybody asking questions about the sense of live, etc...

Very good book well put together. Easy to understand and full of great stories and lessons. Really reccomend this book

The person this gift was intended for enjoyed it very much.

There aren't that many good Dzogchen books available. One of the most prolific writers on the subject is Namkhai Norbu (I've read 9 of his books). His books are very readable and include important descriptions, insights, etc. They serve as, perhaps, the best introductory books (except for the wonderful "Supreme Source" which is more advanced). I also prefer "The Mirror" and "The Cycle of Day and Night" to "The Crystal and the Way of Light." Other books of his of similar value to this one include: "Dream Yoga & the Practice of Natural Light," "Dzogchen and Zen," "Dzogchen: the Self-Perfected State," "The Small Collection of Hidden Precepts" (Manjusrimitra), "and "Teachings of Chogyal Namkhai Norbu." However, I would also recommend the books of Tulku Urgyen which seem a bit more advanced than most of these (e.g. "Rainbow Painting" and "As It Is"). Also, the works of Tulku Urgyen's sons, Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche ("The Union of Mahamudra and Dzogchen" and "Present Fresh Wakefulness") and Drubwang Tsoknyi Rinpoche ("Fearless Simplicity" and "Carefree Dignity"). Also, try some Kagyu Mahamudra books such as Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche's or the wonderful commentaries on Karma Chagme's "The Union of Mahamudra and Dzogchen" (one is listed above) such as "Naked Awareness."

Thorough treatise on the nature,essence and energy of mind.Non dual perception and view of relative reality is encourage to expand mind.Constant awareness can be achieved thru Dzogchen practice.The book is a must reference for professionalsIn the fild of Psycholoy ,Mental Hygiene and Behavioral studies.