Book Review

‘The Crown of Life’ (Reprinted): A Study in Yoga, by Kirpal Singh, Delhi: Ruhani Satsang, Third Edition 1970, 256 pages, hard cover $6, paperback $3

This extraordinary book, first published in India in 1961, is the only one of its kind: a comprehensive, perfectly clear textbook of comparative yoga, which discusses each school of thought with absolute fairness from its own point of view, but which never loses sight of the Ultimate Goal of all mysticism, and evaluates each system with that in mind. It is much more than a textbook, of course; certain sections – especially Part II, Chapter I ‘Surat Shabd Yoga’ – contain some of the most beautiful and powerful words ever written in English.

The Master begins by discussing the very basic components of yoga philosophy, common to all yogas. He then analyses the classic Ashtang Yoga system of Patanjali; some sixty pages are devoted to a detailed and thorough study of the eight steps of this yoga, and its relevance to modern man is explored fully. The well-known later developments of Patanjali – Raja Yoga, Hatha Yoga, etc. – as well as the psychological yogas presented in the Bhagavad Gita – Jnana Yoga, Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, etc. – are taken up in turn, analysed and evaluated. And the Advaita – non-dualistic – philosophy of Shankara, normally a very difficult subject, is presented so simply and clearly that the breathtaking beauty of that teaching is made obvious.

But the focal point of the book is the discussion of Surat Shabd Yoga. Beginning with an introductory section which is as acute and penetrating a treatment of the psychology of Spiritual Growth as has ever seen print, all aspects of this Natural Yoga are examined, ending with a beautifully poignant, moving and convincing study of the Guru-disciple relationship.

The book concludes with analyses of the major world religions and some modern occult movements, and an exploration of the differences between the reality of mysticism as experienced by the mystic, and as codified and appropriated by organised religious bodies.

This third edition, the first published in the United States, includes six photographs of the Master and Baba Sawan Singh, as well as a comprehensive index.

It is perhaps no accident that this book should be reprinted so soon after the publication of ‘Morning Talks,’ for the two books in every way complement each other. While ‘Morning Talks’ is the most perfect and complete textbook of practical Spirituality yet published, ‘The Crown of Life’ is its intellectual counterpart: a completely satisfying treatise on the theory, practice and psychology of yoga and mysticism. The scope of the book is enormous; the competence and authority of its author are unequalled in the world today. A Perfect Saint has given us a perfect book.

Russell Perkins