About the Author

Alexander Berzin received a PhD from Harvard University in 1972 from the Departments of Far Eastern Languages and Sanskrit and Indian Studies. A member of the Translation Bureau of the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives since 1972, he is the author of numerous books and articles. He frequently travels to the Americas, Central and Eastern Europe, Central Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, lecturing on Buddhism and Tibetan culture and helping to establish programs of co-operation between the Tibetan community and academic and religious institutions.

Reviews

"This reviewer attended a public Kalachakra abhisheka (empowerment) with H.H. the Dalai Lama in 1991 and had limited understanding then of what was taking place. The rite was deeply inspiring, but how much more meaningful the experience might have been had this book been available! Berzin brings his signature blend of erudition and even-handedness to all elements of the Kalachakra world: internal, external, and alternative Kalachakra, vows and their broader significance, and the entire series of empowerments—for which the author offers step-by-step support (including vivid mnemonic techniques for key visualizations). Practical introductory material includes a concise 'spiritual bottom line'-oriented introduction to tantra, an explanation of the role Kalachakra can have in creating world peace. Though rooted in the Gelug tradition of Berzin's principal teachers, the text is a generous orientation to the Kalachakra tradition in all four of Tibet's Buddhist lineages."—Mandala Magazine "Berzin, with the Dalai Lama's blessing, has written a handbook in clear language and specific detail to help people prepare for the initiation and to understand the ceremony. He begins with an explanation of tantra, removing the sensationalism from a practice often presented in the West as a series of sexual activities. He goes on to explain Deity Yoga, tantric training of the imagination, visualization of the world of mandalas, Shambhala receiving, empowerments, and taking vows. This is a book for the serious student of Buddhism, but it is also a book meant to open the door to these advanced practices to a much wider audience. In many ways, it is an invitation to explore Buddhism with a friendly guide. There is a beautiful, peaceful energy that flows through the pages. I think many of your customers will be drawn to the book without even knowing why."— New Age Retailer