INTRODUCTION
This interpretation is based upon the Bardo Thodol, translated by Lama Kazi
Dawa-Samdup, as edited by W. Y. Evans-Wentz. The purpose of this book is to
provide a manual for guiding newly deceased persons through the after death
experience, in terms familiar to the Western world. There has been no attempt
made to carryover the beauty of the original translation. Instead its beauty has
been sacrificed to the cause of clarity. Great liberty has been taken by the
interpreter, based partly on his own subjective reality on after death experiences,
and the responsibility for this interpretation lies on the interpreter.
The attitude with which the person who does the reading approaches the act of
guiding the just dead person by using this manual should be one of dedication to
helping the deceased. Persons who are familiar, before having died, with this
Guide will experience self-liberation more easily than those not familiar with it.
However, persons of usual ability, even though unfamiliar with the work will
benefit greatly, if not completely achieve the state of self-liberation.
When death has occurred, the reading of this Guide will contribute greatly to the
spiritual advancement of all those who have not already taken complete
responsibility for their minds.