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Have you ever thought of signing up for a ten-day silent Vipassana course, or have any of your friends perhaps taken the plunge already? It takes a brave soul to do so, and a stout heart to go through with it. To such valiant first-timers this book of “secrets” is dedicated with loving respect and in hopes helping to make their path a little smoother, if possible. Please note, however, that this is not an official publication of any sort and that it has not been endorsed, let alone institutionally authorized, by anyone. It is no more (and no less) than one relatively seasoned (though by no means advanced) Vipassana meditator sharing his thoughts — a kind of unofficial survival guide, one might say, covering everything from the application to the logistics and day-to-day dynamics of such courses, including a bit of background on the tradition of S.N. Goenka and his teachers, and some discussion of the underlying theoretical aspects, along with the many questions, high and low, that often arise in the minds of beginners and experienced spiritual warriors alike. May you have a great course, and may all beings be happy!
S.N. Goenka was a teacher of Vipassana meditation whose teachings were recorded. The recordings are now played in meditation centers in different countries, presented by teachers trained in the Goenka method, during ten-day retreats. This book provides indispensable preparation for such retreats. The only aspect it withholds is instructions on how to meditate; those the author leaves to the Goenka recordings and the retreat teachers.The author shows scholarly and very impressive knowledge of Theravada Buddhism, Western philosophy, and other subjects. There are two chapters on Buddhism: one that explains the major tenets and another in question-and-answer format that addresses further concerns about the religion/philosophy.There is much candidness and generosity with details about going through each of the ten days. There is advice on everything from packing adequately for a retreat to coping with the rules of the center to dealing with distractions during the meditation sessions. It’s clear that the author has attended several retreats in different parts of the world. Also obvious is a fondness for Goenka, the teachings, and the kinds of people who staff the centers, but the author is honest about difficulties.The prose is energetic, often moving, and sometimes funny! Don’t skip the endnotes; they provide more insight and humor.
