“The
Teachings of Don Juan: A Yaqui Way of Knowledge”
Carlos
Castaneda
ISBN
=13: 978-0-671-60041-9
1968
University of California Press
$7.99
US
Carlos
Arana Castaneda was a anthropologist, author
and founder of Cleargreen. He wrote a series of books about his
experiences training in shamanism. There is much debate as to
whether his teacher 'Don Juan' was fictional or real. However many
still believe his books still hold significant knowledge. He lived
from 12/25/25 to 4/27/1998.
More
information on the author and his beliefs can be found at
http://www.castaneda.com/ .
“A
man of knowledge is one who has followed truthfully the hardships of
learning,” Don Juan pg.5
This
book was a journal of sorts written from the first person view of the
author as he began his journey into Shamanic training. Much of the
focus is on developing relationship and understanding the use of
medicinal plants that have psychotropic effects. The second part of
the book is a structural analysis of his experiences and training
Although
the author shares detailed accounts of his training, I would not
recommend anyone trying these same substances without a experienced
mentor. I do not endorse this practice. Many people looking to
experience a deeper connection in their practices do not believe in
the use of drugs or alcohol. This is not a 'how to' book in other
words. It is a journal of one man who undergoes a gradual training
of a Shamanic path. His path was not quick and not easy. We share
with him experiences both enlightening and humiliating. We learn
about allies, shape shifting, dreaming and more.
The
Analysis at the end might break the experience down to explain it
more to an analytically minded person, however I found it hard to
understand and a bit dry. The journal by itself held the most
interest and meaning to me. The journal writing makes it easy for us
to understand and follow the events. Personally I would recommend
this to anyone looking to understand Shamanism. Fiction or not, the
story presents a very real taste of the trials, life and lessons of a
training Shaman.
For
a complete list of Carlos Castaneda's other book visit the following:
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