Magic and Mystery In Tibet
by Alexandra David-Neel

I read this book many years ago, and was intrigued. It tells the story of a French woman who was a Buddhist, and who traveled and lived in Tibet for several years in the early part of the last century. She encountered many monks, lamas, yogis and shamans during her stay, witnessed “psychic” phenomena and was told about many more. She had the opportunity to ask eminent mystics about their opinions on death and reincarnation.

Drawing on what she learned, Mrs. David-Neel explains many details about Tibetan Buddhism that western civilization hasn’t had exposure to before. In addition to various spiritual trainings, she describes some of the exercises of the hermits who increase their body temperature to the point that they melt the snow around them.

The reader will enjoy a first hand look at the way the Tibetans and holy men lived almost a hundred years ago. I recommend this book highly for anyone interested in Tibet, Tibetan Buddhism or the other spiritual practices of that land.

Copyright 2004, 2012 Linda Ann Stewart
All Rights Reserved