A Taste of Freedom

by Ajahn Chah

This book contains ten Dhamma talks given by the renowned Thai meditation master Venerable Ajahn Chah. In a clear and simple yet penetrative style, the author describes how one can realize true freedom and peace through the development of one's mind.

Genres: Buddhism

101 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1980

About the author

Ajahn Chah was born in 1918 in a village located in the north-eastern part of Thailand. He became a novice at a young age and recieved higher ordination at the age of twenty. He followed the austere Forest Tradition for years, living in forests and begging for almsfood as he wandered about on mendicant pilgrimage.

He practised meditation under a number of masters, among whom was Ajahn Mun, a highly respected and accomplished meditation teacher of the time. Ajahn Mun had an indelible influence on Ajahn Chah, giving his meditation practice the direction and clarity that it lacked. Ajahn Chah later became an accomplished meditation teacher in his own right, sharing his realization of the Dhamma with those who sought it. The essence of his teaching was rather simple: be mindful, don't hang on to anything, let go and surrender to the way things are.

Ajahn Chah passed away in peace after a long bout of illness on January 16, 1992, at his home monastery, Wat Pah Pong, in Ubon Ratchatani.

Reviews

[Paraeinstein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Despite the unorthodox and 'Zen-like' manner in his teachings, Ajahn Chah always keeps coming back to the core teachings of Buddhism; the 4 Noble Truths and the Noble 8Fold Path. His special emphasis is on the constant maintenance of Sati Sampajanna (Mindfulness with Clear Comprehension of Impermanence) at all times which is not meant to be limited to meditation sittings but also during the meditation break.

[Nandaveer U M · Rating 5 out of 5]

A small book, but gave a lot of insight into practical Buddhism. By practical i mean he gives real life examples and the style of writing is very simple and understandable.

[charlie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Insightful and good storytelling

[Ron · Rating 4 out of 5]

Provided good mental / philosophical context behind meditation.. Especially enjoyed the concluding chapters "convention and liberation" and "no abiding"