The teachings of the Buddha contain clear and plain instructions
for a mental development whose goal is the recognition of reality
as it is. Of course reality is obvious and nothing is hidden, but
an untrained mind will wander aimlessly and get caught up in all
kinds of cravings, aversions, and imaginations. When reality and
imagination collide, the result is suffering. Buddhist mental
development trains the mind in such a way that it can perceive
reality clearly, thereby liberating it from its mental fetters.

This book introduces the reader to the basics of Buddhism with
emphasis on fundamental concepts, Pali terminology, and meditation
practice. Mental development is based on experiential knowledge,
which can only be gained in meditation. This book provides enough
background and instructions for beginning meditation practice and
guiding the practitioner until mental development matures.

The text is a technical manual rather than an inspirational book.
It is intended for people who already have decided to walk the path of
the dhamma and look for concrete instructions. It may also be interesting
to those who merely want to acquire a quick overview over Buddhist
practice.