What will you learn from this book
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Early Life and Discovery: The book explores Krishnamurti's early life, including his discovery as a young boy by Annie Besant and Charles Leadbeater, who believed he was the chosen vessel for a new spiritual leader.
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The Theosophical Society: Krishnamurti was groomed by the Theosophical Society to be the vehicle for the coming of the World Teacher, but he later renounced this role and dissolved the Order of the Star, which had been established for his followers.
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Spiritual Awakening: Krishnamurti experienced a profound spiritual awakening in his youth, which led him to question traditional religious beliefs and search for deeper truths about existence and the human condition.
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Teachings on Freedom and Truth: The book delves into Krishnamurti's core teachings on the importance of freedom, truth, self-awareness, and the dissolution of the ego as pathways to spiritual enlightenment.
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Critique of Authority: Krishnamurti challenged the authority of organized religion, institutions, and gurus, advocating for individual inquiry, critical thinking, and direct perception as the means to self-realization.
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International Influence: Lutyens discusses Krishnamurti's international travels and lectures, which attracted followers from diverse cultural, religious, and philosophical backgrounds, highlighting his global influence.
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Relationships and Personal Life: The book provides insights into Krishnamurti's relationships with family, friends, and colleagues, as well as his struggles with personal demons and inner conflicts.
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Philosophical Dialogues: Krishnamurti engaged in philosophical dialogues with leading thinkers and educators, including David Bohm and Aldous Huxley, exploring topics such as consciousness, perception, and the nature of reality.
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Legacy: Lutyens reflects on Krishnamurti's lasting legacy as a spiritual teacher and philosopher, examining his continued influence on contemporary thought and his relevance in the modern world.
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Criticism and Controversy: The book also addresses criticism and controversy surrounding Krishnamurti's teachings, including accusations of elitism, nihilism, and impracticality, as well as debates about the authenticity of his spiritual experiences.
| Language | English |
|---|---|
| ISBN-10 | 0144000067 |
| ISBN-13 | 9780144000067 |
| No of pages | 764 |
| Font Size | Medium |
| Book Publisher | Penguin Books |
| Published Date | 24 May 2005 |
About Author
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An intimate and insightful portrait of a remarkable teacher and spiritual leader J. Krishnamurti (1895–1986) was born in Madanapalle, a small town west of Chennai, to Brahmin parents. In 1909, at the age of fourteen, he was proclaimed as a saviour and subsequently taken to England by Annie Besant. There, he was educated privately and groomed for the role of World Teacher. In 1929, however, he rejected the mantle and disbanded the organization of which he was the head, declaring that he did not want disciples, thereby unleashing a storm of controversy.
A gentle, unassuming teacher, over the next half-century Krishnamurti would travel the world bearing his message, inspiring the likes of Jawaharlal Nehru, Aldous Huxley, George Bernard Shaw and the Dalai Lama. For the first time, the complete biography of J. Krishnamurti is available in one volume: The Years of Awakening, 1895 to 1935 recounts his childhood days and grooming for his messianic role; The Years of Fulfilment, 1935 to 1980, a comprehensive account of the years he spent spreading his extraordinary philosophy of enlightenment and truth; and The Open Door, 1980 to 1986, the final chapter of an epic life.
Mary Lutyens, who had known Krishnamurti since she was three years old, has drawn on the unpublished letters and personal recollections of the great man to bring us an unforgettable and affecting account of the life of this beloved religious figure who touched the hearts and minds of millions.