Being Nobody, Going Nowhere: Meditations on the Buddhist Path

I used to always recommend Walpola Rahula's "What the Buddha Taught" as the best first read for someone looking to get started with Buddhism but now I think I'd recommend this instead. Rahula's book seems better for those with just an intellectual interest in Buddhism, but this book seems better for those who are ready to start changing their life. An absolute gem.

On occasion a book appears that turns life 180 degrees and makes all the difference. It plucks the reader up and sets them on a higher plateau. Gentle and direct at the same time, Khema's words bring out not only the wisdom of Buddhism, but the wisdom of life. Her gentle prose guides the reader through the mechanics of Buddhism, yet one doesn't have to be a Buddhist devotee to garner wisdom from the book. If you read to be uplifted, this book fits. It easily fits the palm of anyone seeking knowledge, and it brings a warm breeze to the heart. Though Khema passed on a few years ago, through her book, "Being Nobody Going Nowhere: Meditations on the Buddhist Path" (Khema wrote over twenty-five books), she still speaks her message to the world. Try for example the chapter called "Loving-Kindness Meditation," a gentle prayer amidst rough times, words that set the sails firm.

I was lucky enough to attend a retreat taught by Ayya Khema in 1995. I knew very little about Buddhism then, but the experience of meditating and listening to her speak had an immense positive effect on the rest of my life. This is a wonderful book because it is clear, crisp prose with a message that is profound, resonant and very comforting. I recommend it unreservedly.

Using language that everyone can understand Ayya Khema describes the basics of Buddhism and Buddhist meditation. Her writing style and the insights she presents strike the reader as unusually authentic and heartfelt. Although Ayya Khema is not well known in the United States, this book clearly places her in the forefront of other, more well-know practitioners. A Buddhist nun for many years, Ayya Khema's writing emerges from years of personal and practical experience. This book should be read by beginners as well as experienced meditators.

This book is a wonderful introduction to the basic teachings of Buddhism. It is very clear and requires no previous exposure to Buddhism. Yet the teachings presented in this book are very deep, very profound. I would strongly recommend this to anyone looking for an introduction to the teachings of the Buddha.