Goal in Progress: The Detours and Diversions of a Spiritual Journey” by Bhikkhu Nyanadhammika (Book Review #1883)

“Goal in Progress: The Detours and Diversions of a Spiritual Journey” is an enlightening memoir by Bhikkhu Nyanadhammika, an American Buddhist monk whose eclectic spiritual journey transcends geographical and doctrinal boundaries. This autobiographical account is not only a testament to the author’s relentless quest for spiritual understanding but also an exploration of how various religious experiences contribute to personal growth and understanding.

Bhikkhu Nyanadhammika’s journey begins in the late 1970s, capturing a time of intense spiritual exploration. His initial travels take him to West Berlin, where he begins to delve deeper into Buddhist practices. The narrative is richly detailed, providing insights into his early influences and the transformative experiences that led him to embrace monastic life at the age of fifty-four.

The book chronicles his monastic life across various cultures and countries, beginning with his time in Bodhgaya, India, and his ordination as a novice monk in Dharamsala under the guidance of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The author’s narrative is profound as he describes his subsequent residencies in a Tibetan monastery in France, Thai forest tradition monasteries in England, a Benedictine monastery in Michigan, and a Greek Orthodox monastery in Ohio before finally re-ordaining as a Theravada Buddhist monk in Malaysia.

One of the most compelling aspects of Bhikkhu Nyanadhammika’s story is his openness to the spiritual wisdom offered by different traditions. His journey through Christianity and Judaism is particularly notable, as it illustrates how his Buddhist goals were not only compatible with but enriched by insights from these other faiths. This integrative approach challenges the often rigid boundaries of religious identities, presenting a fluid and inclusive perspective on spiritual life.

“Goal in Progress” is beautifully written, with a narrative style that is both reflective and engaging. Bhikkhu Nyanadhammika’s ability to articulate the nuances of his spiritual and personal transformations makes this book a valuable read for anyone interested in spiritual growth, religious studies, or memoirs that explore the complexity of human pursuit of meaning.

In essence, the book offers more than just a recounting of a spiritual journey; it provides a thoughtful meditation on the nature of spiritual seeking itself. The detours and diversions Bhikkhu Nyanadhammika encounters illustrate that the path to spiritual enlightenment is seldom linear and that true understanding often lies in the journey rather than the destination.

Overall, “Goal in Progress” by Bhikkhu Nyanadhammika is a profound and inspiring account of a lifelong spiritual journey. It is recommended for readers looking for a deep, thoughtful exploration of how diverse religious experiences can converge to form a rich tapestry of spiritual life. This memoir is a celebration of the boundless potential for growth and understanding that lies in the human spirit’s quest for the sacred.

Written by Jeyran Main

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