The Poisoned Arrow: A Toltec Guide to Overcoming Fear

by Don Miguel Ruiz Jr.

This new book from beloved author don Miguel Ruiz Jr. teaches us to recognize the ways that fear manifests in our minds, fueling the negative stories we tell ourselves. By becoming aware of our fears, we can change these mental stories, creating a life of inner peace and happiness instead.
 
Fear—the most destructive force in the world.
For most of us in the modern world, fear has become so normal that we don’t even realize we’re afraid. Instead of living in a state of internal peace, we are constantly telling ourselves elaborate stories that lead to mental anguish. These stories foster the beliefs that we are not enough, that bad things are going to happen to us, or that the people we love don’t or won’t love us back. Because we have been telling ourselves stories like these for so long, we don’t realize that they are stories; we mistake them for facts.
 
According to bestselling author and Toltec teacher don Miguel Ruiz Jr., these stories have one thing in they have all been poisoned by the arrow of fear.
 
In this book, Ruiz will teach you how to cultivate awareness of your fears and the stories that are fueled by them, how to make peace with the unknown, and how to counter fear with faith and unconditional love. Whether you are a longtime student or new to Toltec teachings, his expert wisdom will guide you along the path to achieving freedom from fear.

Genres: Nonfiction

224 pages, Paperback

Published August 26, 2025

Reviews

[Nicole Janevski · Rating 2 out of 5]

1.75 ⭐️

While there were some good insights here and there, I found this book heavily anecdotal which I didn’t love. It felt a bit repetitive at times and also obvious. I really loved ‘The Four Agreements’ so I had high hopes but this felt unstructured and almost like a personal storytelling carried on from Don Miguel Sr.

[Jasmine Barber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life Changing

Much needed book to help move through (paralyzing) fear and attachments and connect to the deep love of the inner Self. I will be rereading this book many times!

[Wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Poisoned Arrow by Don Miguel Ruiz Jr. is a profound exploration of the subtle ways our beliefs and perceptions can cause inner suffering, offering wisdom that encourages introspection and healing. Ruiz Jr. weaves spiritual insights with practical guidance, making complex concepts accessible and impactful.

[Judy Lins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Removing Fear

Mr Ruiz makes everything about fear so clear and the exercises are very helpful. I am reading the book again and I will probably read it again after that. I felt stuck in life and I believe that removing the poisoned arrow is the solution I need.

[Luis Manahen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful, beautiful. Listen to it when going for a walk. You won’t regret it ;)

[Alice · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was astonished by how much was packed into this little book. It was not only about facing your fears, but gave the reader a way to navigate the healing process.

[Becky · Rating 2 out of 5]

not as good as their other books. kind of disappointed.

[paul kreiss · Rating 5 out of 5]

About fear

This book is all about overcoming certain
psychological fears. It has helped me a great deal. I had been filled with fear since I was a young child

[Jo-jean Keller]

An incredibly helpful book. I learned ways to deal with life that I can use over and over. It's a joy to find such a positive aporoach!

[Dodee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full of great wisdom and an easy read. Inspirational and highly recommended.