Clearly and methodically; Baba Ifa Karade renders an outstanding depth of insight into the Ifa tradition. Beginning with its "Genesis" and progressing to the religious traditions and practices; Mr. Karade states "It is important for the devotees of the yoruba faith to explore the origins of the Yoruba in both historical and cultural dimensions in addition to studying the structure of the Ifa philosophy and religious culture. By studying and contemplating upon the vast richness of the tradition; devotees are also less likely to rest upon the "Occult-like" levels and rise to the plateau of realizing Ifa as a path to inner enlightment and divine reflection. This literary work represents a courageous step in broadening and elaborating on previously held concepts by some devotees and non-devotees alike that rested upon cultural imitations; while gaining no understanding of the ultimate purpose and directives of the deepness of the African ancestral thought; behavior and concepts of the world at large and divine realms. This book clearly places Baba Ifa Karade among the uninhibited; who would elevate the philosophy and directives of the Ifa tradition.
#1353184 in Books White Cloud Press 2004-04-01Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.24 x .45 x 6.14l; .55 #File Name: 1883991633164 pages
Review
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Simple; lyricalBy Souvik MitraIf transforming historicity into an engaging story be the goal; then this book scores highly. Kherdian weaves mythology lore; wafts lyrical prose at us yet stays consistently credible on historical accuracy. Spanning the 80 years of Buddha's life; this book captures his thoughts; muses; indulgences; even follies; as he meanders through his plush seductive life in the palace as a prince; his hardships; growth travels on the way to enlightenment finally the setting up of the Sangha from loose groups of followers that the Buddha gathered since his enlightenment.The book narrates a few parables; touches upon the basic tenets of Buddhism; but wisely; or so I think; steers clear of any pretense of being a book on Buddhist philosophy. Kherdian achieves this by making the Budhha shut up or walk away; time again; after saying only so much to a particular disciple time again.The book also delves into the lives of his immediate family his relationships with them. For the most part; these were less than remarkably warm. In spite of Kherdian's superlative attempts at humanizing an esoteric historic character; what shines through these stories of his relationships was that being Buddha was rather a full time occupation.Short; summary delightful read.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. InspiringBy WWMDDavid Kheridan's book; "The Buddha: The Story of an Awakened Life"; is a compelling; detailed retelling of the Buddha's journey from self-indulgent nobleman to compassionate teacher of the dharma.I rated this book 4 stars because it is well-written; provides believable motives for Siddharta's life decisions; and provokes thought both at home and at sangha.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Flowed Like A RiverBy storyteller312This classic story flowed like a river. Many biographies cram too much superfluous information that distract from the main story. This biography was a beautiful read; thoughtful and memorable.
