The Life of Shabkar

November 15, 2000
Shabkar (1781-1851) was a Tibetan master who, according to the introduction by the Dalai Lama, is second only to the sage Milarepa in the regard in which he is held at all levels of Tibetan society. His reputation rests on a clear and sometimes playful style of presentation--amply illustrated, alternating prose with verse--in which he covers all aspects of spiritual practice. Shabkar also transcends the sectarian snares of the Tibetan tradition, incorporating aspects of all the teachings with no apparent prejudices. The translation group, headed by Ricard (The Monk and the Philosopher), has done a meticulous job, including the copious accompanying textual apparatus. This thorough, well-conceived edition of an important text will be welcomed by scholars and serious practitioners of Buddhism. For the average reader, however, it will be rough going, as the style tends to be repetitious and sounds a bit stilted to modern Western ears. Also, it is an account of a life that--while extraordinary in a spiritual sense--was largely uneventful. Essential for larger academic collections with an interest in Buddhism, it should be considered by collections serving serious students and practitioners of Buddhism.--Mark Woodhouse, Elmira Coll. Lib., NY

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