Art of Dying, The

The Art of Dying, a wonderful collection of writings on the acceptance of the truth of suffering, contains texts by late Vipassana Meditation Teacher S.N. Goenka, explanations of the teaching of the Buddha, scriptural verses, poetical stories of monks and nuns from the time of the Buddha, and accounts from fellow meditators. Inspiring examples of people gaining strength and a taste of freedom through their practice of Vipassana.

These stories not only help to sustain and strengthen established Vipassana meditators in their quest, but also to encourage others searching for peace and understanding to take up the practice of getting to know thyself truly, on an experiential level to develop their own wisdom.

Endorsements

A thoughtful look at the greatest challenge facing each of us: death, whether our own or a loved ones. Weaving together material from many sources, this collection provides a context for understanding death and experiencing it with awareness and equanimity. Here are passages from the Pali texts, writings of S.N. Goenka, poems, theoretical expositions, and questions and answers. But perhaps the most compelling parts are the sections by or about meditators confronting the end of life. With humility, tenderness and often a smile, they learn to accept their own impermanence, suffering and non-self. Their courage and compassion gives every Vipassana meditator an example to which we can aspire. —William Hart, author, The Art of Living

I was inspired by the stories of ordinary people who faced death with exemplary poise and courage, and who attributed this gift to Vipassana meditation. —Paul R. Fleischman, author, Wonder, Cultivating Inner Peace

Brings a piercing light to a universal reality too often darkened by ignorance, fear and mythology. Alternately intelligent and moving, instructive and poetic, scientific and devotional, it examines its important subject from a variety of angles in its quest to explain and accept the great mystery of death. That it does so in such a concise and readable way is truly remarkable. —Ron Graham, award-winning Canadian author and journalist

I imagine there is no better way to experience the end of life apart from meditating or living it oneself than to read these beautiful stories. —Rivers Cuomo, lead singer, Weezer