"The fourth volume of the Dalai Lama's definitive series on the path to awakening, The Three Jewels of Refuge and the Three Higher Trainings, delves into the substance of spiritual practice. You'll first hear His Holiness's explanation of the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha, why they are reliable guides on the path, and how to relate to them. His Holiness then describes the three essential trainings common to all Buddhist traditions: the higher trainings...

Science vs. religion, faith vs. empirical enquiry--which is the true path to understanding reality? After forty years of study with some of the greatest scientific minds as well as a lifetime of meditative, spiritual and philosophical study, the Dalai Lama presents an analysis of why both disciplines must be pursued in order to arrive at a complete picture of the truth. Science shows us ways of interpreting the physical world, while spirituality helps...

A discussion of how the Dalai Lama draws on his personal compassion to connect with others shares insight into his human frustrations and joyful approach to the world, and describes his peace-promoting encounters with people ranging from a sick child to world leaders.