DOC Lama of the Gobi: How Mongolia's Mystic Monk Spread Tibetan Buddhism in the World's Harshest Desert by Michael Kohn in History

Review

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful. An important book about an important historical figureBy MikeeThe life and the work of Danzan Ravjaa is widely known among the nomads of the Gobi desert in Mongolia; but virtually unknown anywhere else. There are so many sides from which you can look at this historical figure: He was a Living Buddha; a social reformer (if not revolutionary); a healer; a poet; a politician and much more. He built schools for the nomads' children; fought for womens' rights; wrote socially critical theater plays and an epic opera and even built his own opera house in the middle of the desert. He was not only critical towards the then ruling Manchu government; but also fought corruption among the Buddhist establishment. This is a man the world should know about and Michael Kohn gives a western audience a very fine introduction into this story for the very first time. Kohn writes from the viewpoint of a professional journalist and did a lot of research for this book; But at the same time he also transmits the story behind the stories; which is maybe even more important to understand that Danzan Ravjaa also has a message for today's people living in the west; not only for the Gobi's herders of the 19th century. Five stars for an important book and let's hope that there is more to come!3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Mongolian BuddhismBy Jack WeatherfordMongolia has produced two great religious figures; Zanabazar and Danzan Ravjaa. Zanabazar is probably the most respected and honored; while Danzan Ravjaa is the most loved and closest to the hearts of the common people. His songs such as "Ulemjin Chanar" are among the most popular in Mongolia and are still recorded today by pop artists as well as by classical singers.Readers wishing to learn about the distinctive nature of Mongolian Buddhism find few resources in English. With the publication of this book on Danzan Ravjaa; we have an opportunity to view the life of the most radical and one of the most mystical figures in Mongolian religion. He repeatedly challenged the political and religious hierarchy of the time and emphasized the uniqueness of Mongolian Buddhism. Despite the great efforts of the established powers to erase him from history; Danzan Ravjaa's spirit still lives in Mongolia; and Michael Kohn's book can help introduce him to the wider world.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Poet's lifeBy Mrs. DorjIt is a good written book with beautiful poems; worth to have in your library.