From Age-ing to Sage-ing

"Medical science has added years to our lives. Reb Zalman's warm and wise book arrives just in time to add life to those years." —Rabbi Harold Kushner, national bestselling author of When Bad Things Happen to Good People

Over two decades ago, Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi felt an uneasiness. He was growing older, and fears about death and infirmity were haunting him. So he embarked on mission to get to the bottom of his fears. Through a series of events that included a vision quest in a secluded cabin and studying with Sufi masters, Buddhist teachers and Native-American shamans, Reb Zalman found a way to turn aging into the most meaningful and joyous time in his life.


In this inspiring guide, Reb Zalman shares his wisdom with readers. Using scientific research—both neurological and psychological—Reb Zalman offers techniques that will expand horizons beyond the narrow view of "the present" into a grand and enduring eternity. By harnessing the power of the spirit, as well as explaining exactly how to become a sage in their own community, he gives readers a helpful way to use their own experiences to nurture, heal, and perhaps even save a younger generation from the prison of how we typically regard aging.


In this updated version, Reb Zalman has added a brand new introductory chapter that provides insight into the shifts that have taken place in our culture since the first edition of this book came out in the 1990s. He provides new inspiring ideas about the importance of an elder's role in shaping society.


"As in his teaching, Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi put in this volume much warmth, human compassion, and necessary wisdom." —Elie Wiesel, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize