Bhikkhu Khantipalo

Forest Meditations: The Verses of the Arahant Talaputa, by Bhikkhu Khantipalo (Buddhist Publication Society Wheel Publication No. 243; 1983; 100k/33pp.)

These eloquent verses, from the Theragatha, chronicle the many "conversations" that Venerable Talaputa, a former actor and contemporary of the Buddha, had with his own mind during the course of his practice. As these verses reveal, while he was still a layperson Talaputa yearned deeply for a life more in harmony with Dhamma; following his ordination his stern admonishments of his unruly mind ultimately led him to his ultimate goal: final liberation. The translator's easy conversational commentary sheds light on these verses from several different angles, and paints Talaputa as an exemplar of the ancient forest meditation tradition that still lives today.

Lay Buddhist Practice, by Bhikkhu Khantipalo (Buddhist Publication Society Wheel Publication No. 206; 1982; a multi-part HTML book)

A helpful practical manual for lay Buddhists covering devotional practice (bowing, setting up a shrine room, etc.), uposatha day observances, lay precepts, and basic meditation techniques.

Practical Advice for Meditators, by Bhikkhu Khantipalo (Buddhist Publication Society Wheel Publication No. 116; 1986; 64k/21pp.)

Introductory text to meditation practice at home, in daily life, and on retreat. Also discusses the cultivation of the divine abidings (brahma-vihara) and the perfections (parami), as well as some of the possible pitfalls of meditation practice.

The Wheel of Birth and Death, by Bhikkhu Khantipalo. (Buddhist Publication Society Wheel Publication No. 147; 1970; 79k/26pp.)

A vivid and detailed commentary and interpretation of early Buddhist paintings that depict the Wheel of Samsara (death and rebirth).

With Robes and Bowl, by Bhikkhu Khantipalo (Buddhist Publication Society Wheel Publication No. 83; 1986; 132k/44pp.)

A compelling introduction to the way of life for a meditating forest monk in Thailand.