Krishnamurti's Journal

Krishnamurti's Journal presents the private writings of influential Indian philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti, recorded during stays in England, Rome, and California in the 1970s. The text consists of daily observations and reflections, written in a distinctive third-person style that avoids the use of "I." The journal entries capture Krishnamurti's encounters with nature, his observations of consciousness, and his meditations on human psychology. Throughout the work, Krishnamurti documents his experiences at various locations including Brockwood Park in England and his time in Malibu, California. The book stands as one of the few works written directly by Krishnamurti himself, rather than transcribed from his talks or dialogues. Mary Lutyens, his official biographer, provides context in the foreword about the circumstances that led to the journal's creation. The journal serves as an intimate window into Krishnamurti's philosophy of consciousness, psychological transformation, and humanity's relationship with the natural world. Through its pages, fundamental themes of his teaching emerge organically through direct experience rather than theoretical discourse.

Readers describe the book as an intimate look into Krishnamurti's daily reflections and meditations. Many note the diary-style entries provide clarity on his philosophical concepts through concrete observations of nature, relationships, and inner states. Liked: - Raw, unfiltered thoughts without formal teaching structure - Poetic descriptions of natural settings and weather - Clear examples of mindfulness in practice - Short entries make it digestible Disliked: - Repetitive themes and observations - Can feel meandering and unfocused - Some entries seem trivial or mundane - Writing style occasionally unclear Ratings: Goodreads: 4.3/5 (492 ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (89 ratings) Sample review: "Reading his journal entries is like watching a master painter at work - each observation builds toward deeper understanding. Though some days feel like mere sketches rather than finished paintings." - Goodreads reviewer "The stream-of-consciousness style won't appeal to everyone seeking structured spiritual guidance." - Amazon reviewer

The Wisdom of Insecurity by Alan Watts The text explores living in the present moment and the nature of consciousness through direct observation rather than intellectual concepts.

I Am That by Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj Daily conversations and reflections reveal insights about consciousness and the self through a similar style of direct pointing to truth.

The Essential Tao by Thomas Cleary This translation of Taoist texts presents observations of nature and consciousness that mirror Krishnamurti's contemplative journal style.

Freedom from the Known by Jiddu Krishnamurti Written in a similar personal tone, this book captures Krishnamurti's core teachings about psychological freedom through self-observation.

The Book of Life by Martin Gray Daily meditations and observations of nature combine with philosophical reflections in a journal format that documents spiritual insights.

🌟 The journal was written in pencil - Krishnamurti chose this simple writing tool over modern alternatives, reflecting his philosophy of simplicity and directness. 🌿 Brockwood Park, one of the locations where the journal was written, later became the site of a school founded by Krishnamurti in 1969, which continues to operate today following his educational principles. 🧘 Despite being widely regarded as a spiritual teacher, Krishnamurti adamantly rejected the role of guru and encouraged followers to question rather than accept any authority, including his own. 📖 The journal's unique third-person narrative style was revolutionary for its time, predating similar experimental approaches in contemporary literary works. 🌍 During the period covered in the journal (1973-1975), Krishnamurti was traveling extensively, giving talks in India, Europe, and America, reaching peak attendance numbers at his public speeches.