Embark on a journey of self-discovery with Osho’s bestselling books
Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh – popularly known as Osho – is a renowned Indian godman, philosopher, mystic, and spiritual teacher. He emphasised individual devotion and introduced dynamic meditation — a blend of movement and stillness.
Osho’s teachings, often controversial yet undeniably influential, have left an indelible mark on seekers of truth worldwide.
Why is Osho Famous (and Infamous!):
Osho gained fame for his unorthodox approach to spirituality. Rejecting organised religion while advocating for individual devotion, he stirred both admiration and controversy. His dynamic meditation technique, a unique blend of freestyle movement and silent stillness, challenged conventional practices.
Through his discourses, Osho delved into various spiritual schools of thought, including Yoga, Zen Buddhism, Taoism, Tantra, and Sufism.
Despite acclaim, controversy surrounded Osho’s leadership of the Rajneesh movement in Oregon, U.S., during the 1980s, labeled by some as a cult. This period is vividly explored in the Netflix documentary series, Wild Wild Country, shedding light on the charismatic yet controversial figure and the complex dynamics within the commune.
What books of Osho can I read?
To this day, Osho stands as a guiding force, offering profound insights through his bestselling books. Zen is a state of mind and Osho books can show you the way!
Osho books are basically transcripts of the Master’s various discourses. Here are some must-read compilations:
One of the finest Osho yoga books, it delves into the transformative power of yoga. Drawing from Osho’s extensive discourses, the book explores yoga beyond physical postures, unraveling its profound impact on the mind, body, and spirit. He takes Sage Patanjali’s ancient yoga sutras and simplifies their scientific principles to make them accessible to a 21st century audience. Osho’s teachings on dynamic meditation, breath awareness, and the philosophy of yoga provide a holistic perspective on the ancient practice.
In this book, readers are guided through the profound teachings of the third Chinese Chan (Zen) patriarch, Sosan. Through poetic verses and insightful teachings, Hsin Hsin Ming serves as a guide to unveiling the wisdom that arises when one frees themselves from attachments and perceptions. Osho guides the reader with a uniquely fluid ease that is gently compassionate yet intensely truthful.
Depending on your own journey, you’ll find that the book strengthens or shatters your beliefs.
This book, which is a compilation of the talks from 1967 to 1972, Osho throws light on the the futility of religiousness. The 120 questions-and-responses format of this Osho book is a gradual introduction to The Eternal Quest. Profound and playful, this book also dives into the science behind Osho Dynamic Meditation to help us understand the reason for all our suffering and pain.
A complete unraveling of the beauty and mystery of the essence of Zen. Osho offers us a different take on enlightenment with a mix of humour and absurdity. Drawing inspiration from a classic Zen story about a disciple seeking water to reflect the moon, Osho explores the nature of desire, illusion, and the search for enlightenment. The book is a treasure trove of Osho’s insights into looking inward and finding our place in the universe we live in.
This book is a thought-provoking exploration of the concept of nirvana, traditionally seen as the ultimate spiritual goal. Nirvana is a state of mind wherein one achieves perfect peace and happiness and suffering and desire cease to exist.
In this book, Osho challenges preconceptions about nirvana and explores the concept through five Zen stories that bring to light the true meaning of nirvana. He creates a sense of extraordinary joy by surrendering to the ordinary everyday humdrum of life.
In this profound book by Osho, the mystic master teaches us that man needs to regain his innate intelligence and sensitivity, and he will not need anyone to show him the way. Clarity of thought, word and action will follow when one allows life itself to lead. When one treats life as their master and learns from it, one can access wisdom that is available to all of existence, including the silent sermons in stones.
His revolutionary approach is one of awareness and mindful living that is authentic and unique.
The title of this Osho book is based on Zen master Basho’s famous haiku: Sitting silently, doing nothing, and the grass grows by itself.
Osho elaborates upon this concept by stating that one should prioritise effortlessness over effort, gratefulness over worrying, and attentiveness over hurrying. Life is spontaneous and in natural flow. When all action is playful and detached, doing it remains fun.
