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Ratings: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)
Genre: Buddhism / Tantra / Spirituality / Eastern Philosophy / Religion

Book Review:

Thomas Cleary, the preeminent translator of Eastern classics, has done it again. In ''The Secrets of Tantric Buddhism,'' he opens a window onto one of the most misunderstood and esoteric traditions within the Buddhist world. This is not a book for the casual reader seeking a simple introduction, but for anyone willing to engage seriously with profound and often challenging material, it is an absolute treasure.

The book presents translations of 46 texts from the Caryagiti, a collection of songs and teachings from the Tantric adepts (siddhas) of the Pala dynasty in ancient Bengal (10th-11th centuries). These are not dry philosophical treatises; they are the poetic, enigmatic, and often radical expressions of realized masters, conveying their insights in a language that is deliberately symbolic and indirect. As Cleary explains in his introduction, Tantric Buddhism is far more about the sacred than the sexual, focusing on transformative meditation and ritual practices that aim to turn every experience, even the most mundane or ''impure,'' into a path to enlightenment.

Cleary's translations are, as always, clear and precise, but the true value of this book lies in his detailed commentaries. He doesn't just translate the words; he illuminates the context, unpacks the symbolism, and explains the underlying philosophy, making these ancient teachings feel surprisingly relevant. He guides the reader through the complex landscape of Tantric thought—the role of the guru, the nature of the subtle body, the transformation of emotions, and the ultimate goal of realizing the innate purity and luminosity of mind.

This is a book that rewards careful study. It is not a quick read, but a companion for a deeper exploration. For students of Buddhism, comparative religion, or mysticism, ''The Secrets of Tantric Buddhism'' is an invaluable resource. It demystifies a complex tradition without reducing its richness, and it offers a glimpse into the ''ecstasy of enlightenment'' that these remarkable masters realized and so powerfully expressed. Highly recommended.