A witty, wise, and unflinching guide to real Buddhist practice.

In Not for Happiness, renowned Bhutanese lama Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse turns conventional spirituality on its head. With humor and honesty, he explains why the goal of Buddhism is not simply to feel good or avoid suffering, but to cut through delusions and awaken genuine compassion and wisdom.

The book focuses on the ngöndro, or preliminary practices — often overlooked but essential in Tibetan Buddhism. With Dzongsar Rinpoche’s trademark style, he makes these seemingly austere practices accessible, showing how they are powerful tools for transforming the mind.

• Author: Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse
• Publisher: Shambhala Publications
• Paperback, ~240 pages
• Focus: Tibetan Buddhist preliminary practices (ngöndro)
• Tone: witty, candid, practical, and thought-provoking
• For both new practitioners and seasoned students seeking depth

✨ A must-read for anyone serious about Buddhist practice — and willing to go beyond the idea that Dharma is about “feeling happy.”