Delve into the secluded world of Tibetan Buddhist meditation with Mountain Dharma, a groundbreaking exploration of long-term individual retreat. This book meticulously traces the evolution of ascetic discourse and practice from the twelfth to the twentieth century, offering an unprecedented look at how hermits lived, meditated, and understood their spiritual journey. By analyzing instructional texts from dozens of authors, it illuminates six core concerns: place, people, food, dangers, spiritual lineage, and time. Discover how evolving notions of personhood have shaped this ancient tradition, revealing a fascinating genealogy of the Tibetan ascetic self and setting a new standard for the historical study of asceticism.

Why You Should Read?

• Uncover the hidden history and detailed practices of long-term meditative retreats in Tibetan Buddhism.
• Gain insight into the daily lives and spiritual challenges faced by Himalayan hermits across centuries.
• Explore how concepts of self and spiritual lineage have evolved within the ascetic tradition.
• Benefit from a methodologically innovative and richly sourced study that redefines the historical understanding of asceticism.

About the Author

David M. DiValerio is an esteemed scholar specializing in Tibetan Buddhism and the history of asceticism. His research delves into the intricate details of meditative practices and the cultural contexts that shape spiritual traditions. DiValerio's work is characterized by its meticulous textual analysis and its ability to shed new light on previously underexplored aspects of religious history, making him a leading voice in the study of Himalayan spiritual practices.