One: Essential Writings on Nonduality

This is the first book on nonduality intended for a mainstream audience. Nonduality means not two or One without a second. That One has many names-God, consciousness, truth, the Self-and the writings in this collection turn the reader toward this nondual reality. This is done through the practice of inquiry, in which questions about the source of one's action or thought lead one to see the fact of non-separation, and through expressions of nonduality in art, music, scriptures, and diverse areas of ordinary life. In gaining an understanding of the nondual nature of life, one can live with greater integrity and joy, because the truth of existence is seen and lived.

Often called Advaita in the East, nonduality describes the singular wholeness of existence that suggests that the personal self is an illusion. Nonduality is the basis of much of ancient Eastern thought, and there is a growing interest in it among Western spiritual seekers. The book covers religious and cultural expressions of nonduality, nondual spiritual practices, and the philosophical underpinnings of the nondual perspective. This very lively and diverse collection includes readings from Ramana Maharshi, Ibn 'Arabi, the Tao Te Ching, Ohiyesa, the Diamond Sutra, the Avadhuta Gita, Bernadette Roberts, Kabbalah, nondual psychotherapy (John Prendergast), education (Steven Harrison), art (Jerry Wennstrom), and the movie The Matrix (Pradheep Chhalliyil). It's a sourcebook for understanding this profound perspective and how it relates to our lives.

One conveys what nonduality itself is, in a nonacademic style that draws heavily on modern, popular writing on the subject. Included are lively passages from major traditions-Buddhism, Taoism, Hinduism, Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. This new take on an ancient philosophy makes it relevant for modern lives.