This is the splendid autobiography of Shabkar Tsogdruk Rangrol (1781-1851), a yogi who wandered far and wide expressing his realization, as a fully accomplished adept of the Great Completion (Dzogchen). The Life of Shabkar has long been recognized by Tibetans as one of the masterworks of their religious heritage. Shabkar Rangdrol devoted himself to many years of meditation in solitary retreat after his inspired youth and early training in the province of Amdo under the guidance of several extraordinary Buddhist masters. With determination and courage, he mastered the highest and most esoteric practices of the Tibetan tradition of the Great Perfection. He then wandered far and wide over the Himalayan region expressing his realization. Shabkar's autobiography vividly reflects the values and visionary imagery of Tibetan Buddhism, as well as the social and cultural life of early nineteenth-century Tibet.

"Regarded by many as the greatest yogi after Milarepa to gain enlightenment in one lifetime . . . as source of inspiration to Buddhist practitioners and general readers alike." - from the foreword by H.H. the Dalai Lama

This autobiography is full of joyful humor, wit, intense self-discipline and magnificant flights of imagination. Matthieu Ricard has created a work of art ~ remaining true to the poetic beauty of the Tibetan original he has for the first time presented this important work to the West. Also, his notes and appendixes on historical and Buddhist backgrounds are invaluable. A tuely inspiring page-turner!