In order to truly free ourselves from perpetuating patterns of suffering, the Buddha offered a comprehensive system for understanding our psychological dispositions, processes, fixations, and challenges—a system known as the Abhidharma. This tradition of psychology has been studied by Buddhists for over two millennia and is indispensable for progressing through the stages of meditation.

Professor Steven D. Goodman, who has honed his presentation of this system of psychology to a generation of students, presents the first practical, relatable, and direct overview of the Abhidharma. This guide outlines step-by-step methods for examining the source of our habitual tendencies and hang-ups, showing how we can liberate ourselves from cycles of emotional pain by becoming aware of our mental patterns on the subtlest levels. Goodman explains how the Abhidharma can be applied to meditation practice through exercises of observation and reflection, making this the go-to manual for anyone interested in understanding how the mind really works.