Reviewer: Richard Hood from Towson, Maryland
The subject of Zen has become very popular in the 1990's. Recently there have been many translations of Zen classics and new books by contemporary writers. When Richard Rose wrote this book he was among the first to recognize the value of Zen as a way for the mind to look at itself and as a tool to discover both error and truth. The Albigen Papers is written in comtemporary language that is at once clear and to the point. It attacks and deconstructs much of what we know or think that we know. It is one of those books that once read is not easily forgotten or dismissed. It have the potential to change the way you look at the world or the way you view yourself. The last part of the book is concerned with the truth that Mr. Rose discovered after many years of meditation and study of many different religious systems. He communicates this truth in a way that is both direct and concise. I think that this is one of those few books that has the power to change your life
Reviewer: Shawn Nevins (sanevins@earthlink.net) from austin, TX
It is obvious that Richard Rose spent his entire life searching for the truth of man's nature. When he finally found it, he dedicated himself to finding ways to give others the tools they need to conduct their own search.
Much of contemporary spiritual writing is speculation and wishful thinking. Rose writes about Reality and how to find it. Don't pass up this book. --This text refers to the Paperback edition.
A shattering expose of social, psychological, and spiritual illusions. The aim of this book is to approach reality. It is an indispensable guidebook to the path of self-knowledge and realization. It contains an examination of spiritual systems, blocks and aids to spiritual progress, and a common sense approach to spiritual seeking. Also included is a poetic account of Richard Rose's own spiritual experience
Reviewer: David Weimer (dwweimer@aol.com) from Memphis, TN
The first time I read 'The Albigen Papers,' it was a tough read.
It was one of the first philosophic books I ever read on purpose, although I had read other genres prolifically.
Rose takes a black coffee (no sugar) look at religious and philosophic systems. He says to a seeker of truth, "I've been there," and addresses pitfalls on the path, offers yardsticks to judge movements, authors and gurus by, and outlines a common sense approach to discovering the ultimate answer.
The more I revisit 'The Albigen Papers' the more I recognize its value. I recommend it to anyone who's serious.
At the back of the book is a blank verse epic poem the author wrote to describe his enlightenment at age 30.
Common sense guide to the Universe
The first time I read it, it was a tough read.
It was one of the first philosophic books I ever read on purpose, although I had read other genres prolifically.
Good spiritual advice
It is obvious that Richard Rose spent his entire life searching for the truth of man's nature. When he finally found it, he dedicated himself to finding ways to give others the tools they need to conduct their own search. Much of contemporary spiritual writing is speculation and wishful thinking. Rose writes about Reality and how to find it. Don't pass up this book