Meditator's Life of the Buddha: Based on the Early Discourses

by Anālayo

Bhikkhu Analayo offers an inspiring biography of the Buddha from the viewpoint of his meditative development and practice, based on combining extracts from the early discourses with his own commentary.

The focus is on the Buddha as a meditator, so this is a life story offering inspiration and guidance for readers who are also meditators. Bhikkhu Analayo covers the period up to the Buddha's awakening and from the awakening to the Buddha's final Nirvana. Following this, he explores recollections of the Buddha, a topic that in one way or another underlies all the chapters. Each of the twenty-four chapters concludes with suggestions for meditative practice or conduct.

Genres: Buddhism, Meditation, Biography, Philosophy

332 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2017

About the author

Ven. Anālayo, born in 1962, was ordained a Buddhist monk in Sri Lanka in 1995, completing his Ph.D. on satipaṭṭhāna at the University of Peradeniya in 2000. He is a contributor to the Encyclopaedia of Buddhism.

Reviews

[Kaśyap · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like his book on Satipatthana sutra, this one too is very clear and practical. Bhikshu Analayo paints a picture of Buddha's life with focus on his experiences as a sadhaka and his teachings. It is divided into short chapters with practical exercises at the end that you can incorporate into your sadhana.

[Jon Højlund Arnfred · Rating 5 out of 5]

For the lay Western meditator the person who was the Buddha probably does not play a big role in guiding his or her practice. This book challenges that status, and points to the insight merits of following in the buddhas footsteps as inspiration in one's own practice.

[Mario Gudec · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book offers a fascinating look at the Buddha’s life through the lens of early Buddhist discourses, with a focus on what meditators can learn from his journey. Analayo does an incredible job of weaving together historical context and practical insights, making this both an inspiring and instructive read for anyone interested in meditation or Buddhism.

What I loved most was how relatable the Buddha’s challenges and practices feel when presented this way. Analayo brings the teachings to life by connecting them to modern meditation practice, which makes the text feel grounded and actionable. It’s not just a biography—it’s a guide to living and practicing with intention and mindfulness.

That said, the book is quite detailed, and some sections might feel a bit dense if you’re not familiar with Buddhist terms or concepts. But for those willing to dive in, it’s an incredibly rewarding read.

If you’re a meditator looking for inspiration or someone curious about the life of the Buddha, this book offers a fresh and meaningful perspective. It’s scholarly yet practical—a perfect combination for anyone serious about deepening their understanding and practice. Highly recommended!

[Bobparr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Non credo che Analayo avrebbe potuto scrivere meglio un libro di questo tipo: dettagliato, chiaro, incoraggiante, completo, pratico. E poi documentato, ricco, ampio. Un lavoro davvero notevole.
È nello stesso tempo affascinante e demotivante vedere come è complesso l’approccio buddista alle cose del mondo, paragonato alle tipiche modalità umane di grossolana e ottusa reattività.

[Sachin · Rating 5 out of 5]

For a meditator, this books gives a comprehensive view of what is the path and what is not via life and experiences of Buddha.
There is lot to absorb from the book so soak it at your own pace to get the aha moments.
In one way or other this book will transform your views/perspective for good.

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the early sources, a portrait of the Buddha's meditation life, with exercises after the reasonably lengthed chapters. Great book.

[Maughn Gregory · Rating 5 out of 5]

This treasure of a book offers wisdom teachings that are profound yet utterly accessible, resting on a foundation of careful, rigorous scholarship.

[Vishvapani · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent account based on the canonical sources for the Buddha's biography, focused on Discourses in both Pali and Chinese recensions.

[Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent and easily read guide with practical and helpful knowledge for any meditator.

[Cesar E. Perez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book, as only Analayo can write it. Well thought.