A Theravada Buddhist Exploration of Meditation, Karma and Rebirth

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M Ly first book Freeing the Buddha was published in paperback in 1999. Since then a revised version was published in hardcover by Motilal Banarsidass Publishers in Delhi, India, in 2005. It was 477 pages long and almost two inches thick. It seems, however, that most people prefer to have a small paperback. I resolved to cut the book in half omitting the more controversial parts.

Chapters 1, 3, 7 and 8 have been rewritten from Freeing the Buddha but in the end I have written this almost completely new book which reflects an additional ten years of experience. My students will find that it complements the courses I teach.

I would like to acknowledge Ajahn Sona who has had the big- gest influence upon me in the past nine years. I identify with the Theravada Forest tradition that he represents. He has graciously given me permission to include his kamma teachings and his breath and loving kindness meditation instructions in this book.

Special thanks to Venerable Bhikkhu Bodhi for choosing the rebirth essay for this book and giving me permission to quote him extensively, to Ajahn Kusalo for permission to reprint his walking meditation instructions and to Venerable Pavaro for editing the recorded teachings of Ajahn Sona. I appreciate the help of Ajahn Sona's mother, Irma West, who read the manuscript and gave great advice. Barry Millar once again did the layout design and prepress. I thank him and also Sadra Saffari who designed the cover. I appreciate many others who helped and offered suggestions and ideas.