Difference between revisions of "Commentary on Ngöndro Practice according to The New Treasure of Dudjom"
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+ | ===[[Düd jom ter sar ngön drö ngag dön dü pa zhug]]=== | ||
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+ | This commentary was compiled from teachings given by the [[Khenpos]] at various practice centers across the [[U.S.]] over the last ten years. These were transcribed by members of the [[Turtle]] [[Hill]] [[Sangha]] in [[Tennessee]], merged and edited by [[Padma Shugchang]]. This {{Wiki|manuscript}} is still in the editorial stage and has not yet been officially approved by the [[Khenpos]], so all errors are mine alone. Comments and [[criticism]] are appreciated. | ||
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+ | [[Padma Shugchang]] (Craig Bialick) 11/26/99 | ||
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+ | Homage to the gracious [[root teacher]], who [[embodies]] the [[masters]] of the [[three lineages]]. Please pour down a [[shower of blessings]]. | ||
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+ | [[Buddha Shakyamuni]], the supreme, unequalled [[teacher]], [[taught]] the [[Dharma]] on many different levels. The [[teaching]] most [[essential]], accesible, and easy to practice is the [[ngöndro]], or [[preliminary practice]]. [[Patrul Rinpoche]], the great [[scholar]] | ||
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+ | and [[siddha]], said that even though it is called “[[preliminary practice]]”, there is no other practice which is more profound than [[ngöndro]]. Many great [[masters]] of antiquity accomplished the [[primordial wisdom]] of [[enlightenment]] through this secret and [[profound path]]. | ||
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+ | The [[ngöndro]] presented here originated as a [[terma]] of [[Dudjom Lingpa]]. Later, it was written down with technical clarification by his succeeding [[reincarnation]], H.H. [[Dudjom Rinpoche]], [[Jigdral Yeshe Dorje]], prophesied by [[Guru Rinpoche]] himself as his [[own]] {{Wiki|regent}}, and renowned as the {{Wiki|sun}} and [[moon]]. Through his [[unlimited]] [[transmission]], [[initiations]] and [[pith instructions]] as well as historical background, all of which, like a potent seed, will mature in our [[minds]] and {{Wiki|liberate}} us. | ||
− | + | Therefore, this [[ngöndro]] is one of his teachings that we receive which is full of [[blessings]] and power. Among its many different versions, this one, being highly condensed, is especially suitable for our busy {{Wiki|modern}} times. By taking support of a foundation practice such as this, all our [[dharma practice]] can result in our [[realization]] of the [[primordial wisdom]], and all the great [[lineage masters]] will be our {{Wiki|witness}}. Therefore, we should accept this practice with [[joy]], [[respect]] and [[appreciation]]. | |
+ | *** Through the power of this [[virtue]] May the [[Vajrayana teachings]] of the [[ancient translation school]] endure May the [[life force]] of all the [[noble]] [[lineage holders]] remain firm and their [[activities]] increase; May the [[world]] be free of {{Wiki|disease}}, famine, [[war]], and natural {{Wiki|disasters}}, and be filled with [[love]] and [[joy]] and [[peace]]; May a golden age be upon us, and all [[beings]] swiftly [[attain enlightenment]]. | ||
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+ | [[Khenchen Palden Sherab Rinpoche]] [[Khenpo Tsewang Dongyal Rinpoche]] | ||
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+ | ===INTRODUCTION=== | ||
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− | + | Today, I am going to talk about [[Ngöndro]] and the related practices. This is truly the [[essence]] of all the different [[teachings of the Buddha]], from the [[Hinayana]] up to the great [[Dzogchen teachings]]. [[Ngöndro]] Practice contains the [[heart]] teachings of all | |
− | + | those levels. This technique was condensed by the great [[tantric master]], [[Guru Padmasambhava]]. He arranged it in such a way that any [[student]] can apply and practice every single [[teaching of the Buddha]] towards the discovery of [[inner wisdom]], the [[realization of enlightenment]]. | |
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+ | The [[Buddha Shakyamuni]] came to this [[world]] over two thousand five hundred and thirty-eight years ago. After his [[enlightenment]] at age thirty-five, he [[taught]] for forty-five years, [[offering]] many levels of instruction [[relative]] to {{Wiki|individual}} capacities, | ||
+ | and opening the door to [[great awakening]] for anyone [[interested]] in accomplishing the [[highest]] good for themselves as well as all others. All of the [[Buddha’s teachings]] lead to the [[realization]] of [[Buddhahood]] and can be generally divided into two categories: the [[philosophical]] systems and [[methods]] of {{Wiki|practical}} application. | ||
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+ | [[Buddhist]] [[philosophical]] [[views]] are as deep as the ocean and [[boundless]] as the sky. The [[philosophical]] [[traditions]] include many branches such as [[Sravakayana]] or [[Hinayana]], [[Mahayana]], [[Mind Only School]], [[Madhyamika tradition]], the [[Vajrayana]] [[lineages]] and others. These schools are all concerned with the true meaning of [[experience]] and accurate descriptions of [[phenomenal]] transformations, such as how everything is constantly changing and working together in [[interdependence]]. | ||
− | + | However, [[philosophy]] itself is only a prelude to practice. Effective inquiry and analysis lead to meaningful application. The [[Buddha]] wasn’t trying to create an [[intellectual]] [[society]] or an {{Wiki|academic}} system. He was intent on communicating the [[Wikipedia:Absolute (philosophy)|ultimate]] [[state]] of our [[true nature]]. [[Philosophy]] has a necessary function and serves to | |
+ | exercise our [[inner wisdom]] so that we can begin to understand; however, this level of [[knowledge]] alone will not lead to the fullness of [[enlightenment]] or the [[ultimate realization]] of [[love]], [[compassion]], [[wisdom]] and [[joy]]. [[Great equanimity]] and [[transcendent insight]] never come through [[intellectual]] pursuits alone. | ||
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+ | The [[ngöndro practice]] is a condensed [[form]] of the entire [[Dharma]] expounded by the [[Buddha]], [[including]] the teachings of [[Guru Padmasambhava]] and many other [[lineage masters]]. Nothing has been left out. The [[ngöndro]] encompasses all of the [[essentials]] which lead to [[enlightenment]] and the actualization of this practice is of great [[benefit]] for everyone. It is a [[skillful method]], an easy way to apply the [[views]] clarified by [[philosophical]] inquiries into [[mind]] and [[life]], so that these | ||
− | + | understandings can [[transform]] our [[activities]]. As we practice, our [[interest]] and [[devotion]] quite naturally [[awaken]], encouraging us to deeper commitment. In this way, we can have a direct [[connection]] with the core of our [[true nature]], a | |
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+ | {{Wiki|practical}} means of [[embodying]] profound [[love]], genuine [[compassion]], [[perfect wisdom]] and [[joy]]. [[Ngöndro]] practice will ground our [[body, speech and mind]] in the [[true nature]] so that we can begin to mature the two benefits. It is of [[vital]] importance for those who seek [[enlightenment]]. | ||
− | + | To take up the [[ngöndro]], you must become familiar with the actual practice. Beyond {{Wiki|learning}} about the [[form]] and meaning, we must know how to implement it. Without that [[knowledge]], mere [[interest]] will not actualize the fullness of the [[Wikipedia:Absolute (philosophy)|ultimate]] result. Therefore, it is necessary to know how to practice. [[Ngöndro]] introduces us to the [[Vajrayana]] [[methods]]; it is full of [[insight]], inspiration and {{Wiki|subtle}} instructions which tell us | |
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+ | exactly how to apply ourselves. This [[form]] has been handed down through generations of great [[masters]], so it is not as though we have to struggle and create something new. This is a well-established highway and if you simply follow the [[signs]], you can begin moving with [[confidence]] and [[joy]]. This highway goes directly there. Many accomplished [[masters]], both {{Wiki|male}} and {{Wiki|female}}, arrived at the final destination and discovered their [[Buddha nature]] in this way. So it is said to be rich with inspirational advice and [[pith | ||
− | + | instructions]]. Hence, there is no need to hesitate, take detours or make u-turns. Just go ahead, joyfully. This is how the [[precious]] [[lineage]] teachings have been continually preserved in unbroken succession. We too, can adopt the [[ngöndro]] as our practice to develop the necessary [[courage]], commitment and inspiration as we work toward our [[own]] [[enlightenment]] for the [[sake]] of all [[sentient beings]]. | |
− | THE NINE YANAS | + | ===[[THE NINE YANAS]]=== |
− | 'Yana' is Sanskrit for vehicle. In the Nyingma Schools they list nine yanas or vehicles of practice. The first three are known as the Sravakayana, the Pratyekabuddhayana and the Bodhisattvayana. These three are known as the causal yanas [S. hetuyana]. The other six yanas are all Vajrayana teachings or tantras. The three outer tantras are called Kriyayoga, Upayoga and Yogatantra. They are known as the three external tantrayanas. The three inner tantras are Mahayoga, Anuyoga and Atiyoga. Atiyoga, Mahasandhi and Dzogchen are synonyms: one meaning, different names. These six tantric teachings are known together as the fruition or result yanas [S. phalayana]. | + | '[[Yana]]' is [[Sanskrit]] for [[vehicle]]. In the [[Nyingma Schools]] they list [[nine yanas]] or vehicles of practice. The first three are known as the [[Sravakayana]], the [[Pratyekabuddhayana]] and the [[Bodhisattvayana]]. These three are known as the causal [[yanas]] [S. [[hetuyana]]]. The other six [[yanas]] are all [[Vajrayana teachings]] or [[tantras]]. The [[three outer tantras]] are called [[Kriyayoga]], [[Upayoga]] and [[Yogatantra]]. They are known as the three external [[tantrayanas]]. [[The three inner tantras]] are [[Mahayoga]], [[Anuyoga]] and [[Atiyoga]]. [[Atiyoga]], [[Mahasandhi]] and [[Dzogchen]] are synonyms: one meaning, different names. These six [[tantric teachings]] are known together as the [[fruition]] or result [[yanas]] [S. [[phalayana]]]. |
− | Guru Padmasambhava’s clothes symbolize these nine yana teachings. I am sure you have noticed that he is wearing many different robes. This doesn’t mean he felt very cold in Tibetan weather and would wear whatever he could find. Everything that he wears is a symbol of these different teachings. According to Dzogchen and the Nyingma lineage of Guru Padmasambhava, we are not to discriminate against any of the teachings. All are either support, ornamentation, | + | [[Guru Padmasambhava’s]] [[clothes]] [[symbolize]] these [[nine yana]] teachings. I am sure you have noticed that he is wearing many different [[robes]]. This doesn’t mean he felt very cold in [[Tibetan]] weather and would wear whatever he could find. Everything that he wears is a [[symbol]] of these different teachings. According to [[Dzogchen]] and the [[Nyingma lineage]] of [[Guru Padmasambhava]], we are not to discriminate against any of the teachings. All are either support, ornamentation, |
− | or part of the Dzogchen teaching. Don’t reject any of these saying, “Oh, that is just Hinayana, that is only a Bodhisattvayana practice, that is merely an outer tantrayana exercise. I don’t care about that, I don’t need any of this, because I only practice Dzogchen.” That is not the right way to look at it. | + | or part of the [[Dzogchen teaching]]. Don’t reject any of these saying, “Oh, that is just [[Hinayana]], that is only a [[Bodhisattvayana]] practice, that is merely an outer [[tantrayana]] exercise. I don’t [[care]] about that, I don’t need any of this, because I only practice [[Dzogchen]].” That is not the right way to look at it. |
− | All of those teachings are like the ornamentation, or branches of Dzogchen, as in one tree. Dzogchen is the fruit, but all the other teachings support | + | All of those teachings are like the ornamentation, or branches of [[Dzogchen]], as in one [[tree]]. [[Dzogchen]] is the fruit, but all the other teachings support |
− | the highest branches of the tree. Every one of the practices in those vehicles helps to remove obscurations and reveal our enlightened nature. For example, Hinayana teachings are a support for the Mahayana teachings and Sutra Mahayana | + | the [[highest]] branches of the [[tree]]. Every one of the practices in those vehicles helps to remove [[obscurations]] and reveal our [[enlightened nature]]. For example, [[Hinayana]] teachings are a support for the [[Mahayana teachings]] and [[Sutra]] [[Mahayana teachings]] are a support for the [[Vajrayana teachings]]. The [[three outer tantras]] are a support for [[the three inner tantras]]. It is like a staircase where the first step supports the second, the first and second support the |
− | third and the rest. Every one of those teachings is a support for the Dzogchen transmission. Therefore, we should accept them all and we should not reject some out of hand, thinking we are superior practitioners. “I don't need that,” is a wrong attitude. | + | third and the rest. Every one of those teachings is a support for the [[Dzogchen]] [[transmission]]. Therefore, we should accept them all and we should not reject some out of hand, [[thinking]] we are {{Wiki|superior}} practitioners. “I don't need that,” is a wrong [[attitude]]. |
− | THE MEANING | + | ===[[THE MEANING]]=== |
− | Ngöndro is a word made of two parts: ngön and dro. In Tibetan, ngön means ahead or before and dro means going. Sometimes it is translated as “preliminary,” but that is not an exact translation. It’s more like going before or going forward. When you’re traveling with a group in new territory, there’s often a guide who helps out by bringing news of what’s ahead. Similarly, our path must be guided by wisdom. Anyone who wants to get enlightened should “go ahead” and practice the ngöndro. Many people tend to think that ngöndro practice is just an appetizer, or a pre | + | [[Ngöndro]] is a [[word]] made of two parts: [[ngön]] and [[dro]]. In [[Tibetan]], [[ngön]] means ahead or before and [[dro]] means going. Sometimes it is translated as “preliminary,” but that is not an exact translation. It’s more like going before or going forward. When you’re traveling with a group in new territory, there’s often a guide who helps out by bringing news of what’s ahead. Similarly, our [[path]] must be guided by [[wisdom]]. Anyone who wants to get [[enlightened]] should “go ahead” and practice the [[ngöndro]]. Many [[people]] tend to think that [[ngöndro practice]] is just an appetizer, or a pre |
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+ | school for beginners, but this is not the case. At this point, you must start to comprehend the importance of the [[ngöndro]]. Even though there are more advanced practices, there’s nothing more [[essential]] and necessary than what we encounter right here. These practices not only allow us to go ahead and begin; they are also [[essential]] in the middle of the [[path]] as well as after the goal has been reached. To take up the [[ngöndro]] ensures that the whole endeavor is fully [[spiritual]], qualified [[Dharma practice]]. | ||
+ | ===[[THE BENEFIT]]=== | ||
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+ | [[Ngöndro]] practice will help us develop [[confidence]] and [[joy]] in our efforts to become [[enlightened]] [[for the sake of all beings]]. By applying the practices and [[understanding]] the meaning of the words, you [[feel]] inspired and encouraged. You become more {{Wiki|aware}} of how valuable this opportunity is. We’ve all inherited the [[Buddha seed]], everyone of us. The [[ngöndro practices]] help us appreciate this in ourselves as well as in others. A new [[understanding]] begins to take [[root]] as our [[obscurations]] are gradually [[purified]], giving rise to the [[wisdom]] which [[recognizes]] all [[beings]] as equals. Everyone has an opportunity to work joyfully and courageously for their [[own]] as well as other's [[enlightenment]]. Diligent application of this practice will totally remove deep-seated [[karmic obscurations]] and neurotic habit-patterns acquired in this [[life]], while simultaneously revealing our [[Buddha nature]]. | ||
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+ | ===[[THE TREASURE]]=== | ||
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+ | There have been many [[ngöndro practices]] revealed by great [[masters]] and [[tertons]]. They all follow a similar {{Wiki|structure}} although their length varies. This particular version of the [[ngöndro practice]] is very condensed. It was revealed by [[His Holiness]] [[Dudjom Rinpoche]], a great [[terton]] and the [[head of the Nyingma school]], who passed away in 1987. The text is based on works revealed by his predecessors with some technical instructions added by [[His Holiness]]. It is an especially good practice for this busy generation. | ||
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− | + | ===[[THE SECTIONS]]=== | |
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+ | I: The Four Reflections which Reverse the [[Mind]] II: The Actual Preliminaries • A) [[Going for Refuge]] • B) The Generation of [[Bodhicitta]] III: The [[Accumulation]] of [[Merit]]: [[Mandala Offering]] IV: The [[Purification]] of [[Obscurations]]: [[Vajrasattva]] V: The Swiftly Penetrating [[Blessings]] of the [[Guru Yoga]] VI: The [[Transference]] ([[Phowa]]) | ||
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+ | ===VII: [[Chöd Practice and Dedication Prayers]]=== | ||
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− | The actual preliminaries are preceded by the four renunciations. These are also known as the four reversals which turn the mind toward the Dharma. Contemplating the meaning of each of these statements is a powerful technique which can change our attitude toward samsara and clarify our understanding of the phenomenal world. These four thoughts are generally associated with the Hinayana teachings, and in particular, they correspond to the Four Noble Truths which the Buddha Shakyamuni first taught to five human students, 80,000 celestial beings and many animals, in a small park on the outskirts Varanasi, India 2500 years ago. | + | The actual preliminaries are preceded by the four renunciations. These are also known as the four reversals which turn the [[mind]] toward the [[Dharma]]. Contemplating the meaning of each of these statements is a powerful technique which can change our [[attitude]] toward [[samsara]] and clarify our [[understanding]] of the [[phenomenal world]]. These [[four thoughts]] are generally associated with the [[Hinayana]] teachings, and in particular, they correspond to the [[Four Noble Truths]] which the [[Buddha Shakyamuni]] first [[taught]] to five [[human]] students, 80,000 [[celestial beings]] and many [[animals]], in a small park on the outskirts [[Varanasi]], [[India]] 2500 years ago. |
− | The Buddha explained that in order to be liberated, you must understand the nature of suffering. Pain and suffering are never random or accidental; there is always a cause. Everyone would like to be liberated from suffering, but to do so we must first look into its origins. To recognize and remove the cause of suffering one must have a reliable method. This is called the path. The path indicated by the Buddha leads us beyond suffering into the joy, peace and love, of nirvana. Understand the causes of suffering, then follow the path and you will attain nirvana. | + | The [[Buddha]] explained that in order to be {{Wiki|liberated}}, you must understand the [[nature]] of [[suffering]]. [[Pain]] and [[suffering]] are never random or accidental; there is always a [[cause]]. Everyone would like to be {{Wiki|liberated}} from [[suffering]], but to do so we must first look into its origins. To [[recognize]] and remove the [[cause of suffering]] one must have a reliable method. This is called the [[path]]. The [[path]] indicated by the [[Buddha]] leads us beyond [[suffering]] into the [[joy]], [[peace]] and [[love]], of [[nirvana]]. Understand the [[causes of suffering]], then follow the [[path]] and you will attain [[nirvana]]. |
− | ===The four noble truths consist of:=== | + | ===[[The four noble truths consist of:]]=== |
− | 1. suffering | + | 1. [[suffering ]] |
− | 2. the cause of suffering | + | 2. [[the cause of suffering]] |
− | 3. nirvana | + | 3. [[nirvana]] |
− | 4. the cause of nirvana, which is also known as the path | + | 4. the [[cause]] of [[nirvana]], which is also known as the [[path]] |
− | On the basis of these truths, we can develop insight into our feelings and individual experiences so that complete realization becomes possible. | + | On the basis of these [[truths]], we can develop [[insight]] into our [[feelings]] and {{Wiki|individual}} [[experiences]] so that complete [[realization]] becomes possible. |
− | The next section is the refuge. Going for refuge is the primary condition for practice and begins the preliminaries. Without it there’s no growth or true realization of the profound meaning. After taking refuge, the focus turns to developing bodhicitta. This is a term indicating the mind of infinite love, compassion and wisdom in relation to all beings, oneself included. | + | The next section is the [[refuge]]. [[Going for refuge]] is the primary [[condition]] for practice and begins the preliminaries. Without it there’s no growth or true [[realization]] of the [[profound meaning]]. After [[taking refuge]], the focus turns to [[developing bodhicitta]]. This is a term indicating the [[mind]] of [[infinite]] [[love]], [[compassion]] and [[wisdom]] in [[relation]] to all [[beings]], oneself included. |
− | Mandala offering is the third section of the ngöndro. There are many different varieties of mandala, but in this case we are making what is called an offering mandala. We visualize, meditate. and then present imaginary offerings to all the buddhas and bodhisattvas. | + | [[Mandala offering]] is the third section of the [[ngöndro]]. There are many different varieties of [[mandala]], but in this case we are making what is called an [[offering]] [[mandala]]. We [[visualize]], [[meditate]]. and then {{Wiki|present}} [[imaginary]] [[offerings]] to all the [[buddhas]] and [[bodhisattvas]]. |
− | The fourth section focuses on the Buddha Vajrasattva. This practice purifies obscurations and removes obstacles. | + | The fourth section focuses on the [[Buddha]] [[Vajrasattva]]. This practice purifies [[obscurations]] and removes [[obstacles]]. |
− | The fifth part in this sequence involves practicing guru yoga on Guru Padmasambhava. See him as the embodiment of all of the buddhas and bodhisattvas and as a skilfull display of the Three Jewels. To feel the presence of Guru Padmasambhava and practice on merging with him is known as guru yoga. | + | The fifth part in this sequence involves practicing [[guru yoga]] on [[Guru Padmasambhava]]. See him as the [[embodiment]] of all of the [[buddhas]] and [[bodhisattvas]] and as a skilfull display of the [[Three Jewels]]. To [[feel]] the presence of [[Guru Padmasambhava]] and practice on merging with him is known as [[guru yoga]]. |
− | The sixth section is related to the transference of consciousness, the phowa practice. This does not mean that we need to effect transference at this time, but we’re preparing for that inevitable moment when the mind will separate from the body. At that point this practice will enable us to easily transfer our consciousness to the pure land of the Buddha Amitabha. [T. bde wa chen] | + | The sixth section is related to the [[transference of consciousness]], the [[phowa practice]]. This does not mean that we need to effect [[transference]] at this time, but we’re preparing for that inevitable [[moment]] when the [[mind]] will separate from the [[body]]. At that point this practice will enable us to easily transfer our [[consciousness]] to the [[pure land]] of the [[Buddha Amitabha]]. [T. [[bde]] wa [[chen]]] |
− | The last part of the ngöndro is called the charity of the body. This is a very brief chöd practice combined with the dedication of merit. These are the seven sub-divisions of the ngöndro. | + | The last part of the [[ngöndro]] is called the [[charity]] of the [[body]]. This is a very brief [[chöd practice]] combined with the [[dedication of merit]]. These are the seven sub-divisions of the [[ngöndro]]. |
− | ===ALIGNMENTS=== | + | ===[[ALIGNMENTS]]=== |
− | The ngöndro is a complete practice which embodies the whole of the Buddha’s teachings. This is very useful because every word that the Buddha taught had a reason and purpose relating directly to the recognition and transcendence of all possible states of mind and emotion, both gross and subtle. These practices give us the power and confidence to recognize and release each emotion. In this way we can begin to purify | + | The [[ngöndro]] is a complete practice which [[embodies]] the whole of the [[Buddha’s teachings]]. This is very useful because every [[word]] that the [[Buddha]] [[taught]] had a [[reason]] and {{Wiki|purpose}} relating directly to the {{Wiki|recognition}} and {{Wiki|transcendence}} of all possible [[states of mind]] and [[emotion]], both gross and {{Wiki|subtle}}. These practices give us the power and [[confidence]] to [[recognize]] and [[release]] each [[emotion]]. In this way we can begin to {{Wiki|purify}} |
− | and transform the mind until our Buddha nature is completely revealed. Our understanding becomes more powerful and profound, and the view more vast and spacious. There is no need to limit ourselves to a single method. The Buddha offers us many different techniques which all work toward the same end: they either remove, purify, or transform the emotions. Of course, these methods must be applied relative to our capabilities. | + | and [[transform]] the [[mind]] until our [[Buddha nature]] is completely revealed. Our [[understanding]] becomes more powerful and profound, and the view more vast and spacious. There is no need to limit ourselves to a single method. The [[Buddha]] offers us many different [[techniques]] which all work toward the same end: they either remove, {{Wiki|purify}}, or [[transform]] the [[emotions]]. Of course, these [[methods]] must be applied [[relative]] to our capabilities. |
− | If you can, practice the ngöndro in the early morning. That’s how most great masters did it. If that’s not convenient, don’t be discouraged; just find a time when you can fit it in. Do it at midnight rather than skip it. | + | If you can, practice the [[ngöndro]] in the early morning. That’s how most great [[masters]] did it. If that’s not convenient, don’t be discouraged; just find a time when you can fit it in. Do it at midnight rather than skip it. |
− | When you practice, sit comfortably on a cushion (or chair) so that you can relax your body. Be quiet and calm your mind. Stop all discursive thinking, just let thoughts be and dissolve in their own place, wherever that is. Disengage. Don’t dwell on the past or think about the future and don’t follow your current thoughts. Let the mind be. Do not try to work with the thoughts themselves; leave them on the side. Keep awareness in the present moment. This is referred to as a state of freshness. This momentary, instant state of the mind is the most precious condition. In Dzogchen, it is called “the primordial mind, the originally pure, naked mind.” It is free of obscurity, and undisturbed by emotions or thoughts. | + | When you practice, sit comfortably on a cushion (or chair) so that you can [[relax]] your [[body]]. Be quiet and [[calm]] your [[mind]]. Stop all [[discursive thinking]], just let [[thoughts]] be and dissolve in their [[own]] place, wherever that is. Disengage. Don’t dwell on the {{Wiki|past}} or think about the {{Wiki|future}} and don’t follow your current [[thoughts]]. Let the [[mind]] be. Do not try to work with the [[thoughts]] themselves; leave them on the side. Keep [[awareness]] in the {{Wiki|present}} [[moment]]. This is referred to as a [[state]] of freshness. This momentary, instant [[state]] of the [[mind]] is the most [[precious]] [[condition]]. In [[Dzogchen]], it is called “the [[primordial mind]], the originally [[pure]], naked [[mind]].” It is free of {{Wiki|obscurity}}, and undisturbed by [[emotions]] or [[thoughts]]. |
− | From that crystal clear mind, love and compassion for all sentient beings arise spontaneously and unceasingly, filling one with joy, respect and appreciation for the preciousness of our situation, for the gifts of the teacher, the teachings, and many other things. | + | From that {{Wiki|crystal}} clear [[mind]], [[love]] and [[compassion]] for all [[sentient beings]] arise spontaneously and unceasingly, filling one with [[joy]], [[respect]] and [[appreciation]] for the preciousness of our situation, for the gifts of the [[teacher]], the teachings, and many other things. |
− | All of this has not come about by accident. Everything has causes and supportive conditions, everything has a reason. This beautiful moment of experience is not arbitrary and meaningless; therefore, we should look into the deeper meaning, learn to appreciate the way it is, and have respect for others. This is very important. So sit down, relax and cultivate this awareness for one or two minutes before you begin. | + | All of this has not come about by accident. Everything has [[causes]] and supportive [[conditions]], everything has a [[reason]]. This beautiful [[moment]] of [[experience]] is not arbitrary and meaningless; therefore, we should look into the deeper meaning, learn to appreciate the way it is, and have [[respect]] for others. This is very important. So sit down, [[relax]] and cultivate this [[awareness]] for one or two minutes before you begin. |
− | Reflect on the preciousness of the teaching, the teacher, and the lineage until you feel tremendous devotion. This warm feeling of closeness is indispensable: Buddha often said that devotion is the door to enlightenment. Without devotion, realization and enlightenment will not develop. Devotion consists of love, compassion and inspiration, all joined together. It is not based in hope and belief; you actually learn to value this view and are able | + | Reflect on the preciousness of the [[teaching]], the [[teacher]], and the [[lineage]] until you [[feel]] tremendous [[devotion]]. This warm [[feeling]] of closeness is indispensable: [[Buddha]] often said that [[devotion]] is the door to [[enlightenment]]. Without [[devotion]], [[realization]] and [[enlightenment]] will not develop. [[Devotion]] consists of [[love]], [[compassion]] and inspiration, all joined together. It is not based in {{Wiki|hope}} and [[belief]]; you actually learn to value this view and are able |
− | to make good use of the teaching situation. Practice without devotion is like trying to drink from a tea-strainer; everything good passes through and one is left with nothing but the old leaves. Devotion, love, and compassion, inspiration, closeness and warmth of feeling are extremely important. They help us overcome any obstacles and bring forth our best qualities, the essential attitudes necessary to become enlightened and realize benefits for others. True devotion is completely the opposite of the tea-strainer, it catches everything good and thoroughly removes what we don’t need. | + | to make good use of the [[teaching]] situation. Practice without [[devotion]] is like trying to drink from a tea-strainer; everything good passes through and one is left with nothing but the old leaves. [[Devotion]], [[love]], and [[compassion]], inspiration, closeness and warmth of [[feeling]] are extremely important. They help us overcome any [[obstacles]] and bring forth our best qualities, the [[essential]] attitudes necessary to become [[enlightened]] and realize benefits for others. True [[devotion]] is completely the opposite of the tea-strainer, it catches everything good and thoroughly removes what we don’t need. |
− | Love, joy, the power of inspiration and many more beautiful qualities are unified and perfectly reflected in the form of Guru Padmasambhava. Guru Padmasambhava is the embodiment of the wisdom, love and compassion of all the buddhas and bodhisattvas. Their essence is integrated and displayed in the form of Guru Padmasambhava, even as he historically existed. Guru Padmasambhava represents all true masters, and anyone with whom you have felt this kind of connection. He symbolizes all the Buddhas, the Dharma and the Sangha, and in the higher tantras, the guru, deva and dakinis. | + | [[Love]], [[joy]], the power of inspiration and many more beautiful qualities are unified and perfectly reflected in the [[form]] of [[Guru Padmasambhava]]. [[Guru Padmasambhava]] is the [[embodiment]] of the [[wisdom]], [[love]] and [[compassion]] of all the [[buddhas]] and [[bodhisattvas]]. Their [[essence]] is integrated and displayed in the [[form]] of [[Guru Padmasambhava]], even as he historically existed. [[Guru Padmasambhava]] represents all true [[masters]], and anyone with whom you have felt this kind of [[connection]]. He [[symbolizes]] all the [[Buddhas]], the [[Dharma]] and the [[Sangha]], and in the [[higher tantras]], the [[guru]], [[deva]] and [[dakinis]]. |
− | Guru Padmasambhava appears seated in front of you in the posture of royal relaxation, bright with the energy of love, compassion, wisdom and divine inspiration. His body radiates with the power of blessings in the form of the five wisdom lights (white, yellow, red, blue and green, or multiple lights). This is the luminosity of love and compassion, the all-pervading light of perfect wisdom, which removes all obscurations and instantly awakens the Buddha nature of every single sentient being, transforming the whole universe into the pure land, a state of total love, compassion and wisdom. Open yourself, feel the power of these radiations and let this blissful awareness deepen. Guru Padmasambhava is surrounded by many buddhas and bodhisattvas, both male and female, or as they are referred to in the tantras, dakas and dakinis. They are all here, right in front of us, smiling, blissful, radiant and ready to assist us on our journey, encouraging us to explore our Buddha nature. | + | [[Guru Padmasambhava]] appears seated in front of you in the [[posture]] of {{Wiki|royal}} [[relaxation]], bright with the [[energy]] of [[love]], [[compassion]], [[wisdom]] and [[divine]] inspiration. His [[body]] radiates with the power of [[blessings]] in the [[form]] of the [[five wisdom]] lights (white, [[yellow]], [[red]], blue and [[green]], or multiple lights). This is the [[luminosity]] of [[love]] and [[compassion]], the all-pervading {{Wiki|light}} of [[perfect wisdom]], which removes all [[obscurations]] and instantly awakens the [[Buddha nature]] of every single [[sentient being]], [[transforming]] the whole [[universe]] into the [[pure land]], a [[state]] of total [[love]], [[compassion]] and [[wisdom]]. Open yourself, [[feel]] the power of these radiations and let this [[blissful awareness]] deepen. [[Guru Padmasambhava]] is surrounded by many [[buddhas]] and [[bodhisattvas]], both {{Wiki|male}} and {{Wiki|female}}, or as they are referred to in the [[tantras]], [[dakas]] and [[dakinis]]. They are all here, right in front of us, smiling, [[blissful]], radiant and ready to assist us on our journey, encouraging us to explore our [[Buddha nature]]. |
− | With an awareness of their presence, begin to chant: | + | ===[[With an awareness of their presence, begin to chant:]]=== |
+ | |||
===NAMO! LU MED TEN GYI GONPO LAMA KHYEN=== | ===NAMO! LU MED TEN GYI GONPO LAMA KHYEN=== | ||
− | Homage lama, infallible constant protector, (you who) know! | + | Homage [[lama]], infallible [[constant]] [[protector]], (you who) know! |
− | ===FIRST- The Preparation— The Recitation of the Four Reflections which Reverse the Mind=== | + | ===FIRST- [[The Preparation— The Recitation of the Four Reflections which Reverse the Mind]]=== |
− | The Tibetan word khyen is often translated as you who know, and sometimes as “you who are aware,” or “you who watch,” but actually it means, “Please, watch over me, help me, regard me. You know my motivation, my inspiration, my bodhicitta commitment, so help me to explore my Buddha nature and fulfill my visions and wishes.” That’s the basic meaning of “you who know.” gonpo lama means “infallible, constant protector.” The condensed ngöndro contains all of this in one line, but many longer forms of this prayer exist. In Tibet, it is called Lama Jang Bö [T. rgyang ‘bod] which means | + | The [[Tibetan]] [[word]] [[khyen]] is often translated as you who know, and sometimes as “you who are {{Wiki|aware}},” or “you who watch,” but actually it means, “Please, watch over me, help me, regard me. You know my [[motivation]], my inspiration, my [[bodhicitta]] commitment, so help me to explore my [[Buddha nature]] and fulfill my [[visions]] and wishes.” That’s the basic meaning of “you who know.” [[gonpo]] [[lama]] means “infallible, [[constant]] [[protector]].” The condensed [[ngöndro]] contains all of this in one line, but many longer [[forms]] of this [[prayer]] [[exist]]. In [[Tibet]], it is called [[Lama]] Jang Bö [T. rgyang ‘bod] which means “[[Calling the Lama from Afar]].” We call on the [[lama]] to help guide and assist us in removing [[obscurations]] and revealing our [[Buddha nature]] so that we may attain [[Buddhahood]] for the [[sake]] of [[all living beings]]. |
− | The next four lines are called the four renunciations or the four attitudes which turn the mind from samsara toward the dharma. These four statements express a clear understanding of the nature of samsara. | + | The next four lines are called the four renunciations or the four attitudes which turn the [[mind]] from [[samsara]] toward the [[dharma]]. These four statements express a [[clear understanding]] of the [[nature]] of [[samsara]]. |
− | ===DAL JOR DI NI SHIN TU NYED PAR KA=== | + | ===DAL JOR DI NI SHIN TU NYED PAR [[KA]]=== |
− | The freedoms and favorable conditions are extremely difficult to obtain. | + | The freedoms and favorable [[conditions]] are extremely difficult to obtain. |
− | This line refers to the special qualities and endowments of this unique human rebirth. The Tibetan dal jor has many explanations in the philosophical teachings. Eighteen specific qualities make our present condition very, very precious. It is said that a body endowed with these eighteen qualities is extremely rare and difficult to obtain. Among these, there are eight freedoms: not having been born in hell, not being a hungry ghost or an animal, not having taken birth as a long-lived god. According to the Buddha, there are many levels of the god realm and although they all tend to have extremely long lives, their minds are very dull. They hibernate beyond sensation where there’s nothing to do, as if they were convalescing in a nursing home. Very little | + | This line refers to the special qualities and endowments of this unique [[human]] [[rebirth]]. The [[Tibetan]] dal jor has many explanations in the [[philosophical]] teachings. Eighteen specific qualities make our {{Wiki|present}} [[condition]] very, very [[precious]]. It is said that a [[body]] endowed with these eighteen qualities is extremely rare and difficult to obtain. Among these, there are [[eight freedoms]]: not having been born in [[hell]], not being a [[hungry ghost]] or an [[animal]], not having taken [[birth]] as a long-lived [[god]]. According to the [[Buddha]], there are many levels of the [[god realm]] and although they all tend to have extremely long [[lives]], their [[minds]] are very dull. They hibernate beyond [[sensation]] where there’s nothing to do, as if they were convalescing in a nursing home. Very little |
− | progress or change happens in that environment. Their lives go on for ages but such a situation is not that useful for spiritual growth, so we don’t want to be born in that realm. We have not taken birth as savages, nor are we dominated by many negative, violent actions. Finally, we have the good fortune of being free of serious physical or mental handicaps such as muteness or imbecility. | + | progress or change happens in that {{Wiki|environment}}. Their [[lives]] go on for ages but such a situation is not that useful for [[spiritual]] growth, so we don’t want to be born in that [[realm]]. We have not taken [[birth]] as savages, nor are we dominated by many negative, [[violent]] [[actions]]. Finally, we have the [[good fortune]] of being free of serious [[physical]] or [[mental]] handicaps such as muteness or imbecility. |
− | Then there’s the ten luxuries or favorable conditions: to be born as a human being, with all your critical faculties, to be free of extreme views, to be in a place where the teaching is available, to have an interest in and devotion to the dharma. These five luxuries are associated with oneself. Five more are related to external conditions: the Buddha has been here, he gave teachings which still remain, there are practitioners following the path and a teacher is available. | + | Then there’s the ten luxuries or favorable [[conditions]]: to be [[born as a human]] being, with all your critical [[faculties]], to be free of extreme [[views]], to be in a place where the [[teaching]] is available, to have an [[interest]] in and [[devotion]] to the [[dharma]]. These five luxuries are associated with oneself. Five more are related to external [[conditions]]: the [[Buddha]] has been here, he gave teachings which still remain, there are practitioners following the [[path]] and a [[teacher]] is available. |
− | Together, the eight freedoms and ten favorable conditions comprise the eighteen precious qualities associated with this human rebirth. Such an opportunity is not easy to come by. Actually, it’s very special. The verse reads, “The freedoms and favorable conditions are extremely difficult to obtain.” Consider how precious life is and learn to respect and appreciate the present. This situation didn’t arise by accident; all these beautiful qualities, opportunities and freedoms are not just abstractions, or easily acquired. Of course we are all familiar with the relative difficulties of life, but overall, every one of us has plenty of good reasons to feel joyful and happy, to appreciate the preciousness of our situation. We are surrounded by so many beautiful things. | + | Together, the [[eight freedoms]] and ten favorable [[conditions]] comprise the eighteen [[precious]] qualities associated with this [[human]] [[rebirth]]. Such an opportunity is not easy to come by. Actually, it’s very special. The verse reads, “The freedoms and favorable [[conditions]] are extremely difficult to obtain.” Consider how [[precious]] [[life]] is and learn to [[respect]] and appreciate the {{Wiki|present}}. This situation didn’t arise by accident; all these beautiful qualities, opportunities and freedoms are not just {{Wiki|abstractions}}, or easily acquired. Of course we are all familiar with the [[relative]] difficulties of [[life]], but overall, every one of us has plenty of good [[reasons]] to [[feel]] [[joyful]] and [[happy]], to appreciate the preciousness of our situation. We are surrounded by so many beautiful things. |
− | First we have to recognize that such good fortune is difficult to come by, then we have to appreciate and value this opportunity in a meaningful way. Simply to be aware of this is not enough. We have to use this precious occasion as the cause for an even greater result. | + | First we have to [[recognize]] that such [[good fortune]] is difficult to come by, then we have to appreciate and value this opportunity in a meaningful way. Simply to be {{Wiki|aware}} of this is not enough. We have to use this [[precious]] occasion as the [[cause]] for an even greater result. |
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− | ===KYE TSHED MI TAG CHI WAI CHO CHAN YIN=== | + | ===KYE TSHED MI TAG CHI WAI CHO CHAN [[YIN]]=== |
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− | Consider the precious gift of this human body and the special opportunities it represents. How long is it going to last? There’s no guarantee or certainty about it. Everything in this world is constantly shifting and changing. This is called impermanence. Movement and change are the natural law pervading the whole phenomenal universe. The sun and moon, our inner state, and everything external, from galaxies to the cells of your body, is in constant motion and incessantly changing. It never stops, not even for one second. If it did, there would be a big disaster; or maybe a surprise so great we couldn’t handle it. Understand that the nature of all phenomena is impermanence. This is very important to contemplate. | + | Consider the [[precious]] [[gift]] of this [[human body]] and the special opportunities it represents. How long is it going to last? There’s no guarantee or {{Wiki|certainty}} about it. Everything in this [[world]] is constantly shifting and changing. This is called [[impermanence]]. {{Wiki|Movement}} and change are the {{Wiki|natural law}} pervading the whole [[phenomenal universe]]. The {{Wiki|sun}} and [[moon]], our inner [[state]], and everything external, from {{Wiki|galaxies}} to the {{Wiki|cells}} of your [[body]], is in [[constant]] {{Wiki|motion}} and incessantly changing. It never stops, not even for one second. If it did, there would be a big {{Wiki|disaster}}; or maybe a surprise so great we couldn’t handle it. Understand that the [[nature]] of all [[phenomena]] is [[impermanence]]. This is very important to [[contemplate]]. |
− | While you still have a precious human body, it is yours to do with as you will. You have to bring the bright light of clear vision into play. Be aware of the value of this moment. You have all your functions and basically, you can do what you want to. Before things have changed too much and the circumstance degenerates, learn to use this life for a greater purpose. Make these endowments the cause for a higher result. | + | While you still have a [[precious human body]], it is yours to do with as you will. You have to bring the [[bright light]] of clear [[vision]] into play. Be {{Wiki|aware}} of the value of this [[moment]]. You have all your functions and basically, you can do what you want to. Before things have changed too much and the circumstance degenerates, learn to use this [[life]] for a greater {{Wiki|purpose}}. Make these endowments the [[cause]] for a higher result. |
− | Awareness of impermanence is important for our own peace of mind, so we aren’t shocked when things change. Through observation and contemplation, we are able to see how change is natural. This applies to everything. If we understand that | + | [[Awareness]] of [[impermanence]] is important for our [[own]] [[peace]] of [[mind]], so we aren’t shocked when things change. Through observation and contemplation, we are able to see how change is natural. This applies to everything. If we understand that |
− | change and movement are the law, we can accept what is happening and not be neurotically obsessed with false explanations. Reality is right in front of us, in each and every one of our experiences. You don’t have to be a sophisticated physicist to understand this, you don’t have to be a highly realized master, it’s right here all of the time, immediately in front of us. This is good to know and good to reveal. | + | change and {{Wiki|movement}} are the law, we can accept what is happening and not be neurotically [[obsessed]] with false explanations. [[Reality]] is right in front of us, in each and every one of our [[experiences]]. You don’t have to be a sophisticated {{Wiki|physicist}} to understand this, you don’t have to be a highly [[realized master]], it’s right here all of the time, immediately in front of us. This is good to know and good to reveal. |
− | The visual representation of the Wheel of Life depicting the six realms surrounded by the twelve links comprising the system of interdependent coordination was actually The visual representation of the Wheel of Life depicting the six realms surrounded by the twelve links comprising the system of interdependent coordination was actually designed by the Buddha Shakyamuni. He asked his disciples to paint this illustration on the wall outside the temples so that everyone would always be aware of our situation. The wheel is always turning, it constantly moves, it is not locked or fixed in place. The outer rim is grasped by a three-eyed monster who represents impermanence. Through the Buddha’s metaphor, we can see how everything and everybody is subject to change, without any exceptions. | + | The [[visual]] [[representation]] of the [[Wheel of Life]] depicting the [[six realms]] surrounded by the [[twelve links]] comprising the system of [[interdependent]] coordination was actually The [[visual]] [[representation]] of the [[Wheel of Life]] depicting the [[six realms]] surrounded by the [[twelve links]] comprising the system of [[interdependent]] coordination was actually designed by the [[Buddha Shakyamuni]]. He asked his [[disciples]] to paint this illustration on the wall outside the [[temples]] so that |
+ | everyone would always be {{Wiki|aware}} of our situation. The [[wheel]] is always turning, it constantly moves, it is not locked or fixed in place. The outer rim is grasped by a three-eyed monster who represents [[impermanence]]. Through the [[Buddha’s]] {{Wiki|metaphor}}, we can see how everything and everybody is [[subject]] to change, without any exceptions. | ||
− | “Everything that is born...” Another way to put it is that everything which appears is impermanent and bound to change. This can be understood generally or in particular. Everything is constantly changing and moving in time and space. By understanding that our human body is difficult to obtain, we learn to appreciate and value it because it is not going to stay like this forever. Things are not even the same from one moment to the next. We will eventually come to the end of our present situation and move on to another state. Everything is always in flux and flowing, moving and shifting. | + | “Everything that is born...” Another way to put it is that everything which appears is [[impermanent]] and [[bound]] to change. This can be understood generally or in particular. Everything is constantly changing and moving in [[time and space]]. By [[understanding]] that our [[human body]] is difficult to obtain, we learn to appreciate and value it because it is not going to stay like this forever. Things are not even the same from one [[moment]] to the next. We will eventually come to the end of our {{Wiki|present}} situation and move on to another [[state]]. Everything is always in flux and flowing, moving and shifting. |
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===GE DIG LE KYI GYU DRE LU WA MED=== | ===GE DIG LE KYI GYU DRE LU WA MED=== | ||
− | The results of virtuous and non virtuous actions are inexorable | + | ===[[The results of virtuous and non virtuous actions are inexorable]]=== |
− | To help us understand the relation between causes, conditions and their results, the Buddha taught the law of karma. Karma is a Sanskrit word meaning action. Whatever you see in this world, whether it is good or bad, beautiful or ugly, has particular causes and supportive conditions which have led to its present manifestation. Hence good action results in goodness and bad deeds yield negative results. Nothing appears without causes and conditions and the systematic relation between causes and effects is known as karma. | + | To help us understand the [[relation]] between [[causes]], [[conditions]] and their results, the [[Buddha]] [[taught]] the [[law of karma]]. [[Karma]] is a [[Sanskrit]] [[word]] meaning [[action]]. Whatever you see in this [[world]], whether it is good or bad, beautiful or ugly, has particular [[causes]] and supportive [[conditions]] which have led to its {{Wiki|present}} [[manifestation]]. Hence good [[action]] results in [[goodness]] and [[bad deeds]] yield negative results. Nothing appears without [[causes and conditions]] and the systematic [[relation]] between [[causes]] and effects is known as [[karma]]. |
− | When we study natural systems, we can clearly discern how the principle of karma operates on the relative, phenomenal level. The continuity of the cause does not alter, change or lose its original energy. It maintains an identity and the integrity of the pattern never changes. Seed from sweet fruit will continue to produce sweet fruit. If the seed is from bitter fruit, you can be sure it will still be bitter when it ripens. If the seed is a cross of sweet | + | When we study natural systems, we can clearly discern how the [[principle]] of [[karma]] operates on the [[relative]], [[phenomenal]] level. The continuity of the [[cause]] does not alter, change or lose its original [[energy]]. It maintains an [[Wikipedia:Identity (social science)|identity]] and the [[integrity]] of the pattern never changes. Seed from sweet fruit will continue to produce sweet fruit. If the seed is from [[bitter]] fruit, you can be sure it will still be [[bitter]] when it ripens. If the seed is a cross of sweet |
+ | and [[sour]] together, the fruit will be similar. If it’s from [[red]] fruit, the new fruit will be [[red]]. Like these [[flowers]] here; if you replant their [[seeds]] in good soil and [[water]] them, you will soon see a similar {{Wiki|color}} and shape appear once again. So the [[nature of karma]] never really changes; it inevitably has its way in ordering the transformations and changes which come about in the [[world]]. The rhythm and {{Wiki|echo}} of {{Wiki|past}} [[actions]] are communicated and extended throughout the generations across centuries of time. | ||
− | |||
− | these | + | The [[karmic]] system never fails or gets things mixed up. If you plant iris bulbs, these will not produce roses! This continuity is reflected in the pattern of our [[minds]]: positive [[seeds]] bring positive results, negative [[seeds]] bring negative harvests. [[Actions]] performed in [[love]] give rise to more [[love]], [[angry]] {{Wiki|vibrations}} bring about more [[anger]]. A [[joyful]] [[effort]] gives rise to more [[joy]]. Similar rhythms continue endlessly from [[beginningless]] time, throughout the [[aeons]]. The [[law of karma]] is very profound, steady and continuous. We don’t have to get abstract and [[philosophical]] to understand this, we can actually see |
+ | these workings displayed in the [[world]], in simple patterns which are easily observed. Similarly, if we promote more [[love]] with this [[mind]], we will realize more [[love]]. [[Love]] means [[joy]], [[peace]], and [[happiness]]; if we are more [[compassionate]], it will be easier to [[relax]], to be [[calm]] and [[peaceful]]. Therefore the great [[masters]] have [[taught]] that in order to realize [[joy]], [[peace]] and [[happiness]] for ourselves as well as for all other [[sentient beings]], we must learn to be [[loving]] and [[compassionate]]. If we [[love]] others, we will receive [[love]] ourselves. The [[quality]] of the [[energy]] we send out echoes back and forth. If we are [[angry]], we are planting [[seeds]] for more discomfort and [[irritation]]. If we give [[love]], we will receive [[love]]. | ||
− | |||
+ | Whatever you do will reflect back to you. The effects never miss the target. They will not come to me. Whatever you do, you alone will [[experience]]. The effects will not be [[experienced]] by the [[elements]] or by any other [[people]]. No one will [[experience]] what you do aside from yourself, even if it takes a hundred million years; sooner or later it will {{Wiki|echo}} back to you in the [[form]] of [[experience]]. Therefore you must be {{Wiki|aware}} of the value of positive [[activity]] and create good [[causes and conditions]]. This {{Wiki|recognition}} of [[impermanence]] is the [[subject]] of the third [[phrase]] used to turn the [[mind]] toward the [[Dharma]]. | ||
− | The fourth line in Tibetan is: | + | |
+ | The fourth line in [[Tibetan]] is: | ||
===KHAM SUM KHOR WA DUG NGAL GYA TSHOI NGANG=== | ===KHAM SUM KHOR WA DUG NGAL GYA TSHOI NGANG=== | ||
− | The three realms of cyclic existence have the nature of an ocean of suffering | + | ===[[The three realms of cyclic existence have the nature of an ocean of suffering]]=== |
+ | |||
+ | In [[samsara]] there is no [[Wikipedia:Absolute (philosophy)|ultimate]] [[satisfaction]]. Perfect [[happiness]] cannot be obtained by manipulating or optimizing [[conditions]]. [[Guru Padmasambhava]] compared efforts to attain [[worldly]] [[happiness]] with the scratching of a leper; although it seems to promise relief, it only opens more wounds and gives rise to more itching and bleeding. Whatever we acquire or [[experience]] in this [[world]] offers no final [[satisfaction]] or lasting {{Wiki|comfort}}. Even if it appears to be the best of | ||
− | + | [[objects]] or situations, there will be some unanticipated aspect of it which does not meet up to our [[vision]] and turns everything upside-down. This does not imply something negative about you or others, it is just the [[nature]] of [[samsara]]. There’s always a measure of [[dissatisfaction]] and discomfort in the [[conditional]] [[world]] because everything’s constantly changing. It never stops. Our [[attachments]] and [[clinging]] result in [[suffering]], [[misery]] and all the other | |
− | + | trouble that arises. Misfortunes follow one after another. This is part of [[life]] in [[samsara]] and not just some aberration, for such problems are part of our everyday [[reality]]. The [[abhidharma]] teachings list eleven different types of [[suffering]]. Among those are [[three root]] [[forms]] known as the [[suffering of suffering]], | |
− | + | the [[suffering of change]], and all-pervasive [[suffering]]. Contemplation of the four reversals is the primary means of gaining a [[clear understanding]] of the [[suffering]] which creates [[samsara]], without resorting to abstract {{Wiki|reasoning}}, [[logic]] and [[philosophical]] arguments. Rather, we see, know, and [[feel]] the [[truth]] of the situation before us. This clarity is the [[path]] itself. Therefore it is sometimes called “clearly [[knowing]] the image of [[samsara]], both externally and internally.’ | |
− | |||
− | |||
− | These four thoughts describe all that we have, and offer a critical awareness of the conditional world. This knowledge will give us a better understanding of samsara, so that we’re not just taken in by appearances. These thoughts develop our insight into the nature of the whole world. In the teachings they say you must accept whatever arises and continue to move on courageously as part of the game. Learn how to work well with your situation and carry on in the spirit of bodhicitta. Maintain a deep commitment to the practice to realize benefits for both yourself and all other beings. | + | These [[four thoughts]] describe all that we have, and offer a critical [[awareness]] of the [[conditional]] [[world]]. This [[knowledge]] will give us a better [[understanding]] of [[samsara]], so that we’re not just taken in by [[appearances]]. These [[thoughts]] develop our [[insight]] into the [[nature]] of the whole [[world]]. In the teachings they say you must accept whatever arises and continue to move on courageously as part of the game. Learn how to work well with your situation and carry on in the [[spirit]] of [[bodhicitta]]. Maintain a deep commitment to the practice to realize benefits for both yourself and all other [[beings]]. |
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The last line reads: | The last line reads: | ||
− | DRAN NE DAG LO CHO LA GYUR WAR SHOG | + | |
+ | ===DRAN NE DAG LO CHO LA GYUR WAR SHOG=== | ||
− | Remembering this may my mind turn towards the Dharma. | + | Remembering this may my [[mind]] turn towards the [[Dharma]]. |
− | Through deepening our comprehension of the meaning of these four verses, we can begin to practice the Dharma effectively, which means cultivating good causes and conditions, and initiating positive resonances which will echo throughout time and space, not merely for ourselves but for every living being. This is a request for inspiration and support, beseeching the kindness of the lama, the buddhas and bodhisattvas, so that we may benefit all beings. “May my mind, body and speech be totally transformed, may I realize myself as non-separate from the Dharma.” | + | Through deepening our [[comprehension]] of the meaning of these four verses, we can begin to [[practice the Dharma]] effectively, which means [[cultivating]] good [[causes and conditions]], and {{Wiki|initiating}} positive resonances which will {{Wiki|echo}} throughout [[time and space]], not merely for ourselves but for every [[living being]]. This is a request for inspiration and support, beseeching the [[kindness]] of the [[lama]], the [[buddhas]] and [[bodhisattvas]], so that we may [[benefit]] all [[beings]]. “May my [[mind]], [[body]] and {{Wiki|speech}} be totally [[transformed]], may I realize myself as non-separate from the [[Dharma]].” |
− | The four reversals constitute the first stage of the ngöndro practice. Now we’ll move on to the refuge. | + | The four reversals constitute the first stage of the [[ngöndro practice]]. Now we’ll move on to the [[refuge]]. |
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− | In order to explore our Buddha nature and begin the journey toward enlightenment, you must understand the meaning of taking refuge. To take refuge daily is the most essential practice of all schools of Buddhism. | + | In order to explore our [[Buddha nature]] and begin the journey toward [[enlightenment]], you must understand the meaning of [[taking refuge]]. To [[take refuge]] daily is the most [[essential]] practice of all [[schools of Buddhism]]. |
− | The Tibetan word for refuge is skyabs which actually means having a sense of closeness, full confidence, a warm feeling and trusting attitude toward the Buddha, his teaching and those who are devoted to making the teaching a living experience. | + | The [[Tibetan]] [[word]] for [[refuge]] is skyabs which actually means having a [[sense]] of closeness, full [[confidence]], a warm [[feeling]] and trusting [[attitude]] toward the [[Buddha]], his [[teaching]] and those who are devoted to making the [[teaching]] a living [[experience]]. |
− | In the ngöndro practice we recite the refuge vow right after chanting the four thoughts which clarify the nature of samsara; in the light of this understanding, we take refuge. The Indian Dzogchen master Vimalamitra said, | + | In the [[ngöndro practice]] we recite the [[refuge vow]] right after [[chanting]] the [[four thoughts]] which clarify the [[nature]] of [[samsara]]; in the {{Wiki|light}} of this [[understanding]], we [[take refuge]]. The [[Indian]] [[Dzogchen master]] [[Vimalamitra]] said, “[[Knowing]] clearly the situation in [[samsara]] as well as the qualities of [[enlightened beings]], we can go for [[refuge]].” First we must know the [[nature]] of [[samsara]]. There is nothing here we can rely on, take {{Wiki|comfort}} in or plan to stay |
− | with. Everything is always changing and moving. Troubles follow one after another continuously, as if you’re in a tunnel which you have to dig by hand. Discouraged by the situation, the mind becomes unstable. In the face of this, we learn to take refuge in the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. This has many levels of meaning, but the act of going for refuge should always be accompanied by a feeling of closeness, warmth, and confidence. That’s the basic nature of taking refuge. | + | with. Everything is always changing and moving. Troubles follow one after another continuously, as if you’re in a tunnel which you have to dig by hand. Discouraged by the situation, the [[mind]] becomes unstable. In the face of this, we learn to [[take refuge]] in the [[Buddha]], [[Dharma]], and [[Sangha]]. This has many levels of meaning, but the act of [[going for refuge]] should always be accompanied by a [[feeling]] of closeness, warmth, and [[confidence]]. That’s the basic [[nature]] of [[taking refuge]]. |
− | Love, faith and a sense of intimacy in relation to the Three Jewels open us to their influences which are of great assistance in removing our obscurations. Ignorance, attachment, anger, jealously, doubt and pride are all obstacles which create uncomfortable situations for us throughout our lives. We must work to remove, transform, or purify them: we can’t just leave them like they are. They are the source of all our difficulties, bringing imbalances and troubles | + | [[Love]], [[faith]] and a [[sense]] of intimacy in [[relation]] to the [[Three Jewels]] open us to their [[influences]] which are of great assistance in removing our [[obscurations]]. [[Ignorance]], [[attachment]], [[anger]], jealously, [[doubt]] and [[pride]] are all [[obstacles]] which create uncomfortable situations for us throughout our [[lives]]. We must work to remove, [[transform]], or {{Wiki|purify}} them: we can’t just leave them like they are. They are the source of all our difficulties, bringing imbalances and troubles |
− | constantly. We have to look at them and deal with them. On the external level we can call on experts, people who can really help us change, those who have trod the path. All the buddhas and bodhisattvas were originally the same as we are. They were not higher or lower than normal sentient beings. However, through their extraordinary motivation, courage, commitment, and joyful efforts, they have become free of all negative emotions and mental obscurations, revealed their Buddha nature, and realized total enlightenment. When we seek assistance on the relative level, the buddhas have the knowledge and skills to purify our emotions and solve our problems so that we may become like them. That is the external aspect of taking refuge. | + | constantly. We have to look at them and deal with them. On the external level we can call on experts, [[people]] who can really help us change, those who have trod the [[path]]. All the [[buddhas]] and [[bodhisattvas]] were originally the same as we are. They were not higher or lower than normal [[sentient beings]]. However, through their [[extraordinary]] [[motivation]], [[courage]], commitment, and [[joyful]] efforts, they have become free of all [[negative emotions]] and [[mental]] [[obscurations]], revealed their [[Buddha nature]], and [[realized]] [[total enlightenment]]. When we seek assistance on the [[relative]] level, the [[buddhas]] have the [[knowledge]] and skills to {{Wiki|purify}} our [[emotions]] and solve our problems so that we may become like them. That is the external aspect of [[taking refuge]]. |
− | What is the nature of the Buddha? The Buddha nature is totally enlightened, completely free of all obscurations and habit patterns, radiant with love and compassion, and full of wisdom. That reality is known as the Buddha. When you are liberated from emotions, and are without mental obscurations, you are already naturally loving, compassionate and wise. These qualities are inherent in our being, as the Buddha clearly demonstrated. Buddhahood is not some novelty which the Buddha developed. He became enlightened through the destruction of all fetters and obstacles. That is the meaning of Buddha. | + | What is the [[nature]] of the [[Buddha]]? The [[Buddha nature]] is totally [[enlightened]], completely free of all [[obscurations]] and [[Wikipedia:Habit (psychology)|habit]] patterns, radiant with [[love]] and [[compassion]], and full of [[wisdom]]. That [[reality]] is known as the [[Buddha]]. When you are {{Wiki|liberated}} from [[emotions]], and are without [[mental]] [[obscurations]], you are already naturally [[loving]], [[compassionate]] and [[wise]]. These qualities are [[inherent]] in our being, as the [[Buddha]] clearly demonstrated. [[Buddhahood]] is not some novelty which the [[Buddha]] developed. He became [[enlightened]] through the destruction of all [[fetters]] and [[obstacles]]. That is the meaning of [[Buddha]]. |
− | The Dharma is the method or body of techniques which help us awaken true love, genuine compassion and wisdom free from ego-clinging and neurotic games. Universal, unconditional love, selfless compassion, and transcendent wisdom pervade all samsaric beings, no matter their situation. The dharmic point of | + | The [[Dharma]] is the method or [[body]] of [[techniques]] which help us [[awaken]] true [[love]], genuine [[compassion]] and [[wisdom]] free from [[ego-clinging]] and neurotic games. [[Universal]], unconditional [[love]], [[selfless]] [[compassion]], and [[transcendent wisdom]] pervade all [[samsaric]] [[beings]], no {{Wiki|matter}} their situation. The [[dharmic]] point of |
− | view is without divisions into higher or lower, close or distant. Everyone has the Buddha nature, everyone needs love, compassion and wisdom and nobody enjoys being subject to anger, jealously, pride, pain and so on. This knowledge is called the Dharma. It is a message of freedom which offers us techniques | + | view is without divisions into higher or lower, close or distant. Everyone has the [[Buddha nature]], everyone needs [[love]], [[compassion]] and [[wisdom]] and nobody enjoys being [[subject]] to [[anger]], jealously, [[pride]], [[pain]] and so on. This [[knowledge]] is called the [[Dharma]]. It is a message of freedom which offers us [[techniques]] |
− | to purify all obscurations and totally reveal the ultimate state of the Buddha nature, the perfection of love, compassion, wisdom and peace. | + | to {{Wiki|purify}} all [[obscurations]] and totally reveal the [[Wikipedia:Absolute (philosophy)|ultimate]] [[state]] of the [[Buddha nature]], the [[perfection]] of [[love]], [[compassion]], [[wisdom]] and [[peace]]. |
− | The Sangha refers to those who practice the Dharma, who carry it in their hearts and minds, applying it according to their capabilities, joyfully, with courage and commitment. Some sangha members have a high degree of love, compassion and wisdom and some are only beginners, but all are motivated toward | + | The [[Sangha]] refers to those who [[practice the Dharma]], who carry it in their hearts and [[minds]], applying it according to their capabilities, joyfully, with [[courage]] and commitment. Some [[sangha]] members have a high [[degree]] of [[love]], [[compassion]] and [[wisdom]] and some are only beginners, but all are motivated toward |
− | enlightenment, dedicated to the realization of benefits for all sentient beings. Also, the sangha can take the form of an individual who has some realization and begins to share and inspire other beings. That too is sangha. These companions serve as a source of inspiration and joy, setting examples for others to follow on the path toward enlightenment. | + | [[enlightenment]], dedicated to the [[realization]] of benefits for all [[sentient beings]]. Also, the [[sangha]] can take the [[form]] of an {{Wiki|individual}} who has some [[realization]] and begins to share and inspire other [[beings]]. That too is [[sangha]]. These companions serve as a source of inspiration and [[joy]], setting examples for others to follow on the [[path]] toward [[enlightenment]]. |
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In English: | In English: | ||
− | ===I take refuge in the Buddha I take refuge in the Dharma I take refuge in the Sangha=== | + | ===[[I take refuge in the Buddha I take refuge in the Dharma I take refuge in the Sangha]]=== |
− | In Sanskrit: | + | In [[Sanskrit]]: |
− | ===Buddham saranam gacchami Dharmam saranam gacchami Sangham saranam gacchami=== | + | ===[[Buddham saranam gacchami Dharmam saranam gacchami Sangham saranam gacchami]]=== |
− | In Tibetan: | + | In [[Tibetan]]: |
− | ===Sangye la kyab su chi-o Chö la kyab su chi-o Gendun la kyab su chi-o=== | + | ===[[Sangye la kyab su chi-o Chö la kyab su chi-o Gendun la kyab su chi-o]]=== |
− | The objects of refuge are the Three Jewels or the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha. Who is taking refuge? Individuals are motivated to take refuge on the basis of their own interest, feeling of warmth, closeness, and confidence in the Three Jewels. No one can be pressured or forced into taking refuge. It only happens through individual joyful effort, by opening your heart and mind to the Buddha as your teacher, the Dharma as your path and the Sangha as your community of spiritual friends. That’s the true meaning of taking refuge and the way we should perceive the Three Jewels. We take refuge out of love for the teacher, the teaching and our companions. By means of this endeavor, we begin to explore and reveal our Buddha nature. | + | The [[objects]] of [[refuge]] are the [[Three Jewels]] or the [[Buddha]], the [[Dharma]] and the [[Sangha]]. Who is [[taking refuge]]? {{Wiki|Individuals}} are motivated to [[take refuge]] on the basis of their [[own]] [[interest]], [[feeling]] of warmth, closeness, and [[confidence]] in the [[Three Jewels]]. No one can be pressured or forced into [[taking refuge]]. It only happens through {{Wiki|individual}} [[joyful]] [[effort]], by opening your [[heart]] and [[mind]] to the [[Buddha]] as your [[teacher]], the [[Dharma]] as your [[path]] and the [[Sangha]] as your {{Wiki|community}} of [[spiritual]] friends. That’s the true meaning of [[taking refuge]] and the way we should {{Wiki|perceive}} the [[Three Jewels]]. We [[take refuge]] out of [[love]] for the [[teacher]], the [[teaching]] and our companions. By means of this endeavor, we begin to explore and reveal our [[Buddha nature]]. |
− | How long will we take refuge? Until we are enlightened. At that point, we will no longer need to take refuge externally. We’ll actually embody the objects of refuge. The notion of taking refuge is transcended when you become enlightened. That’s the general meaning of taking refuge as defined in the Buddha’s teachings. | + | How long will we [[take refuge]]? Until we are [[enlightened]]. At that point, we will no longer need to [[take refuge]] externally. We’ll actually embody the [[objects]] of [[refuge]]. The notion of [[taking refuge]] is transcended when you become [[enlightened]]. That’s the general meaning of [[taking refuge]] as defined in the [[Buddha’s teachings]]. |
− | In the special terminology employed in the Vajrayana, the inner objects of refuge are called the guru, deva and dakini or the lama, yidam and khandro and are referred to as the Three Roots. According to the inner tantra, we can distinguish three levels; externally we take refuge in the Three Jewels, internally we take refuge in the Three Roots and secretly we take refuge in the rtsa, rlung and thig-le, or the channels, winds and essence elements of the body. | + | In the special {{Wiki|terminology}} employed in the [[Vajrayana]], the inner [[objects]] of [[refuge]] are called the [[guru]], [[deva]] and [[dakini]] or the [[lama]], [[yidam]] and [[khandro]] and are referred to as the [[Three Roots]]. According to the [[inner tantra]], we can distinguish three levels; externally we [[take refuge]] in the [[Three Jewels]], internally we [[take refuge]] in the [[Three Roots]] and secretly we [[take refuge]] in the rtsa, [[rlung]] and [[thig-le]], or the [[channels]], [[winds]] and [[essence]] [[elements]] of the [[body]]. |
− | To unite subject and object requires effort, so you must generate some activity when going for refuge in the most external sense. However, from the Dzogchen point of view, there is what is known as | + | To unite [[subject]] and [[object]] requires [[effort]], so you must generate some [[activity]] when [[going for refuge]] in the most external [[sense]]. However, from the [[Dzogchen]] point of view, there is what is known as “[[refuge]] without [[effort]].” This is also known as the [[Wikipedia:Absolute (philosophy)|ultimate]] or most secret [[object]] of [[refuge]] which is to [[take refuge]] within one’s [[own]] [[true nature of mind]], to abide in the union of [[emptiness]] and clarity. To do this, we need a [[sense]] of being very close to the [[objects]] of [[refuge]] and to [[feel]] the [[energy]] of [[love]] and [[happiness]] in that relationship. |
− | As sentient beings, we do not live in harmony with our original nature. Having wandered for a long time in samsara, we are unfamiliar with the truth. Enamored by our projections, we do not have much insight into our own mental events. Through actions based in dualism we separate ourselves from the true nature and become confused and deluded. In one way, taking refuge is returning to your own home, to the essence of who you really are, so you can learn how to be at ease here. Of course you can come and go as you please, it’s just that you’ve finally arrived at your permanent address. Knowing where you live inspires great confidence and joy, freedom beyond doubt and the cycle of hopes and fears. You have realized the ultimate state of democracy! | + | As [[sentient beings]], we do not live in [[harmony]] with our [[original nature]]. Having wandered for a long time in [[samsara]], we are unfamiliar with the [[truth]]. Enamored by our {{Wiki|projections}}, we do not have much [[insight]] into our [[own]] [[mental events]]. Through [[actions]] based in [[dualism]] we separate ourselves from the [[true nature]] and become confused and deluded. In one way, [[taking refuge]] is returning to your [[own]] home, to the [[essence]] of who you really are, so you can learn how to be at ease here. Of course you can come and go as you please, it’s just that you’ve finally arrived at your [[permanent]] address. [[Knowing]] where you live inspires great [[confidence]] and [[joy]], freedom beyond [[doubt]] and the cycle of [[Wikipedia:Hope|hopes]] and {{Wiki|fears}}. You have [[realized]] the [[Wikipedia:Absolute (philosophy)|ultimate]] [[state]] of {{Wiki|democracy}}! |
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− | From now until attaining the heart of enlightenment, I take refuge in the Lama and the Three Jewels. | + | From now until [[attaining]] the [[heart]] of [[enlightenment]], I [[take refuge]] in the [[Lama]] and the [[Three Jewels]]. |
+ | |||
+ | Initially, the [[objects]] of [[refuge]] appear to be external. This is the ground and foundation. At first we need to get oriented on the ground, the [[earth]]; then we can begin to move. Do not just gaze off into the sky. We must learn to combine the [[realities]] of the sky and [[earth]] together; we cannot just deal with one half of the [[world]]. If you fixate on the sky you will stumble and {{Wiki|hurt}} your [[self]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | [[Taking refuge]] is important. All of the [[Buddha’s teachings]] are contained within the practice of [[taking refuge]]. What exactly did the [[Buddha]] teach? All his teachings relate directly to the [[realities]] of the [[Buddha]], the [[Dharma]] and the [[Sangha]]. The whole [[teaching]] is subsumed by these three topics! The [[Three Jewels]] are the [[embodiment]] of his entire [[communication]]. It is necessary to open ourselves with [[joy]] and [[confidence]], to make an intimate, heartfelt [[connection]] with the [[objects]] of [[refuge]], and then maintain this bond throughout all our daily [[activities]]. | ||
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− | + | The [[great master]] [[Atisha]] came to [[Tibet]] around the 11th century. Externally, his foremost practice was [[taking refuge]]. He recited the [[refuge formula]] all of the time and [[offered]] this [[teaching]] to many [[Tibetans]]. Because he chanted these lines constantly, many [[people]] [[thought]] this was all he knew. So they called him the [[Refuge]] [[Teacher]]. But long before [[Atisha]] came to [[Tibet]], he already understood all of the [[Buddha’s teachings]]. Moreover, he knew many of the [[sciences]] of his time. He was the headmaster of [[Vikramashila]] [[monastic university]] which was like a twin to [[Nalanda]]. Given all of that, why did he focus on the [[refuge]]? Because he was fully {{Wiki|aware}} of its importance in firmly establishing [[sentient beings]] on the ground of practice. Therefore, in communicating with the [[Tibetan people]], [[Atisha]] emphasized the supreme [[virtue]] of [[taking refuge]]. | |
− | + | Another famous [[Tibetan master]] who lived around the 15th century, was a renowned [[Nyingma]] [[yogi]] whose [[name]] was Grub-thob Than-stong rGyalpo whose [[name]] means “the [[king]] of [[empty]] land.” Having [[constructed]] one hundred and eight {{Wiki|iron}} [[bridges]] spanning big [[rivers]] throughout [[Tibet]], he was also known as the “{{Wiki|Iron}} Bridge Builder.” {{Wiki|Modern}} [[scientists]] have investigated his work and believe that he was the first man [[to build]] {{Wiki|iron}} [[bridges]] on such a scale. He was also a famous | |
+ | [[terton]], who sported a long white beard and top-knot. He is depicted holding a [[vase]] and an {{Wiki|iron}} chain in his right hand. Nobody [[knows]] how he was paid or what sort of [[techniques]] he used, but the [[bridges]] have not rusted, and some of these structures are still in use. Even the [[communist]] regime has expressed their [[appreciation]] of his efforts, citing him as one of the only practitioners who actually worked for the common {{Wiki|welfare}}. They like to promote him as an | ||
− | + | example of their socialist [[philosophy]]. His main teachings and practice consisted of [[taking refuge]] and reciting the [[six-syllable mantra]] of [[Avalokitesvara]]. He also added one more to the [[three objects]] of refuge–the Lama–so that it now reads: I [[take refuge]] in the [[Lama]], the [[Buddha]], the [[Dharma]] and [[Sangha]]. This style of [[taking refuge]] grew very popular, with the result that all of the [[lay people]] [[in Tibet]] now say, “I [[take refuge]] in the [[Lama]] and the [[Three Jewels]].” | |
− | + | According to the [[Vajrayana]], these [[Three Roots]], [[Three Jewels]] and [[Three Objects]] of [[Refuge]] are all {{Wiki|present}} in the [[form]] of [[Guru Padmasambhava]]. The [[body]] of [[Guru Padmasambhava]] represents the [[Sangha]]. His {{Wiki|speech}} represents the [[Dharma]]. The [[realization]] [[state]] of [[Guru Padmasambhava]] represents the [[Buddha]]. In this way [[Guru Rinpoche]] is the [[embodiment]] of the [[Three Jewels]] as well as the [[Three Roots]]. [[Guru Padmasambhava]] is our [[root teacher]], like the [[lama]]. The [[realization]] [[state]] of [[Guru Padmasambhava]], his [[love]], [[compassion]], [[kindness]] and [[wisdom]], all represent the [[deity]] or [[yidam]]. His beneficial [[activities]] for all [[sentient beings]] of the [[ten directions]] and three times are known as [[dakinis]], while those aspects which continue to {{Wiki|protect}} and remove [[obstacles]], are known as [[dharmapalas]]. In a very simple and convenient way, [[Guru Rinpoche]] alone is enough to take as our [[object]] of [[refuge]]. | |
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+ | ===[[THE REFUGE TREE]]=== | ||
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+ | In the [[space]] before you, [[visualize]] that there is a very beautiful lake, called [[Danakosha]]. The [[water]] is clean, cool and soothing. It is surrounded by beautiful meadows, [[trees]], hills and [[mountains]]. Right in the center of [[Danakosha Lake]] is the [[Wish-Fulfilling Tree]]. It appears like a large [[lotus]] with five branches, one in each of the [[directions]], [[including]] the center. It has many different [[flowers]], leaves and numerous small branches and twigs. Each [[flower]] | ||
− | + | and leaf has a beautiful {{Wiki|fragrance}} that pervades in all [[directions]], bringing [[peace]] and [[happiness]] to [[sentient beings]]. The [[flowers]] also radiate {{Wiki|light}}. | |
+ | [[Guru Padmasambhava]] is seated on the central [[lotus]] upon {{Wiki|sun}} and [[moon]] disks in the {{Wiki|royal}} [[relaxation]] [[posture]] as you see in [[thangkas]], embracing his [[consort]], the [[Wisdom Dakini]], [[Yeshe Tshogyal]]. This [[form]] is sometimes known as [[Guru Padmasambhava]] [[Vajradhara]]. Both figures are radiating the {{Wiki|light}} of the [[five wisdom]] colors. Their presence is full of [[love]], [[skillful means]] and [[compassion]] for [[all living beings]]. They are looking right at you and smiling. [[Guru Padmasambhava]] and [[Yeshe Tshogyal]] are not solid [[form bodies]], but wisdom-light [[bodies]], like [[rainbows]]. | ||
− | + | On the branch in front of [[Guru Padmasambhava]] is [[Buddha Shakyamuni]]. On the right side of [[Buddha Shakyamuni]] is the {{Wiki|past}} [[Buddha]], [[Dipankara]]. On his left side is the [[future Buddha]], [[Maitreya]]. All three [[Buddhas]] are seated on [[lotuses]] surmounted by [[moon]] disks, radiating [[wisdom]] lights and regarding you [[compassionately]] with a half-smile. | |
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+ | On the branch to the right of [[Guru Padmasambhava]] are all the [[Bodhisattvas]] like [[Avalokitesvara]], [[Manjusri]], [[Vajrapani]] and [[Akashagarbha]]. All these great [[Bodhisattvas]] are [[compassionately]] smiling at you, wearing different colored {{Wiki|silk}} [[Sambhogakaya]] [[robes]], long [[hair]], and jeweled crowns. They are a display of [[wisdom]]. | ||
− | On the branch | + | On the branch to the left of [[Guru Padmasambhava]], [[visualize]] all the great [[arhats]] like [[Ananda]], [[Kashyapa]], [[Sariputra]], [[Maudgalyayana]], [[Mahakashyapa]] and [[Subhuti]]. They all have [[monks]] [[robes]] and regard you with a half-smile. On the branch behind [[Guru Padmasambhava]], are all the [[Dharma teachings]] of the [[nine yanas]]. Each text is {{Wiki|magically}} selfreciting and {{Wiki|luminous}}. The different self-sounding {{Wiki|voices}} of the {{Wiki|vowels}} and {{Wiki|consonants}} radiate [[wisdom]] {{Wiki|light}}. This represents the [[Prajnaparamita]] teachings which are also known as the [[Mother of All the Buddhas]]. |
− | + | In the sky above [[Guru Padmasambhava]], [[visualize]] the whole [[Dzogchen lineage]] of the [[Nyingma School]]. There are many, many great [[masters]], like the twenty-five students of [[Guru Padmasambhava]] and the eight Vidydharas. From the [[root teachers]] all the way up to [[Samantabhadra]], all are sitting in a [[rainbow]] in the sky, radiating wisdom-light and [[lineage]] [[blessings]] while smiling at the [[practitioner]]. | |
+ | Between the branches, in the forks, all the other [[wrathful]] and [[peaceful deities]], [[Buddhas]] and Mahaherukas surround [[Guru Padmasambhava]], and below them are all the different [[dharmapalas]]. The [[herukas]] are [[beings]] like [[Vajrakilaya]], [[Hayagriva]], [[Yangdak]] and Shincho [[Heruka]]. The [[peaceful deities]] are the [[Dhyani Buddhas]] such as [[Amitabha]] and [[Vairocana]]. The most powerful and special [[dharmapala]] of the [[Dzogchen teachings]] is Mama Ekagrati. She is [[standing]] in front of the [[lineage]] in the lake, surrounded by many other [[dharmapalas]], like [[Rahula]], Dorjeloka and [[Mahakala]], all radiating [[wisdom]] {{Wiki|light}} and ready to remove the [[obstacles]] and [[obscurations]] of practitioners. They are on [[duty]] twenty-four hours a day like the [[Fire]] Department, ready for [[action]] as soon as you dial the hotline. All these [[objects]] of [[refuge]] are aspects of the [[lineage teacher]], [[Guru Padmasambhava]]. | ||
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+ | The [[refuge tree]] comes right out of the center of the lake. There are also many beautiful birds and swans singing [[Dharma]] songs and [[dancing]], making every kind of gesture and {{Wiki|movement}} expressing [[love]], [[peace]] and [[bliss]]. They are also performing the [[mudras]] of all the different teachings of the [[Buddhadharma]]. There are beautiful [[animals]] in the meadowlands and valleys and many different [[trees]] and [[flowers]]. In the sky there are [[rainbows]], [[celestial]] voids, beautiful | ||
− | + | clouds and small fogs [[rising]]. That is the [[visualization]]. It is said that the [[moment]] you think of it, it should bring [[peace]] and [[happiness]] to your [[mind]]. | |
+ | We should [[take refuge]] in front of this [[tree]] with deep [[respect]], devotional longing, [[happy]] [[thoughts]] and the Three Homages honoring the [[body, speech and mind]]. The gesture of [[respect]] pertaining to the [[body]] is [[prostration]]. The gesture of [[respect]] in [[honor]] of {{Wiki|speech}} is the [[chanting]] of words such as these [[refuge]] | ||
− | + | lines. The [[attitude]] of [[respect]] honoring the [[mind]] consists of [[devotion]], [[confidence]] and [[happiness]]. While [[prostrating]], it is also good to [[visualize]] that every single [[sentient being]] is doing [[prostrations]] with you. In the [[teaching]], it is said, at your right side is your father and on your left side is your mother. You are surrounded by your friends. Even your enemies are doing [[prostrations]] and [[taking refuge]]. With this [[thought]] in [[mind]], we should [[chant]] these lines. | |
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− | + | [[Taking refuge]] is a very important practice for all [[Buddhists]], whether [[Hinayana]], [[Mahayana]] or [[Vajrayana]]. Every [[Buddhist practitioner]] should [[take refuge]]. | |
− | + | All [[Three Jewels]] are [[embodied]] in the [[person]] of the [[lama]]. The [[lama]] is no other than the [[Three Jewels]]. With [[joy]], a warm [[feeling]] of closeness and deep [[confidence]], [[take refuge]] in the [[Lama]], the [[Buddha]], the [[Dharma]] and the [[Sangha]]. [[Visualize]] all the [[buddhas]], [[bodhisattva]] and [[lineage masters]], the entire | |
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+ | collection of [[Dharma]] texts, the [[Noble Sangha]], and the [[supreme emanation]] of all the [[Buddhas of the three times]], in the [[space]] directly before you. [[Guru Padmasambhava]] appears surrounded by [[wrathful]] and [[peaceful Buddhas]] in union as well as {{Wiki|male}} and {{Wiki|female}} [[bodhisattvas]]. Each one is {{Wiki|distinguished}} by a specific [[form]], {{Wiki|color}}, [[mudra]], and expression, yet each represents true [[love]], the fullness of [[compassion]] and [[non-dual wisdom]], radiating a host of beams in all | ||
+ | [[directions]]. The entire assembly is welcoming you into the [[family]] of [[enlightened beings]]. You [[experience]] a warm, [[loving]] [[feeling]], with the [[faith]] of [[confidence]] in the [[refuge]] [[objects]] from the bottom of your [[heart]], so that you are moved to say, “From now until [[attaining]] the [[heart]] of [[enlightenment]], I [[take refuge]] in the [[Lama]] and the [[Three Jewels]].” The commentary reads; Thus, with [[prostrations]], recite as much as one can. Recite the [[refuge mantra]] at the same time that you do [[prostrations]]. | ||
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− | + | [[Prostrations]] serve as an antidote to [[pride]] and [[arrogance]] while instilling [[respect]], [[gentleness]] and [[appreciation]]. Begin [[standing]] with your hands held together at the [[heart center]]. This gesture is called phyagya, in [[Tibetan]], which translates as [[mudra]] in [[Sanskrit]]. This particular [[mudra]] is called the “[[lotus]] | |
+ | blossom [[mudra]].” It is neither fully open nor completely closed; it’s like a bud just before it blooms. Hold this to your [[heart center]]. | ||
+ | [[Mudras]] are [[symbols]] and this one indicates that we’re opening our [[heart]], which is full of [[love]], [[compassion]], [[devotion]], and [[confidence]]. By placing this opening bud at the center of your {{Wiki|chest}}, you [[symbolize]] the opening [[heart]]. Now, move this [[mudra]] up to your [[crown chakra]], and [[chant]], “[[Namo Buddhaya]],” Then | ||
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− | + | bring it down to your {{Wiki|speech}} center, saying “[[Namo Dharmaya]].” Return the [[mudra]] to the [[heart center]] once again, [[chanting]] “[[Namo Sanghaya]].” Then [[bow]] down. | |
− | + | There’s two kinds of [[prostrations]]: short ones and long ones. The short [[prostration]] requires you to {{Wiki|touch}} five points to the ground: the {{Wiki|forehead}}, two palms, and two knees. Do this three times. Besides [[chanting]] the [[refuge formula]], you can also do the [[bodhicitta]] [[mantra]] at the end of each [[prostration]]. | |
− | bring it down to your speech center, saying | ||
− | There’s two kinds of prostrations: short ones and long ones. The short prostration requires you to touch five points to the ground: the forehead, two palms, and two knees. Do this three times. Besides chanting the refuge formula, you can also do the bodhicitta mantra at the end of each prostration. | ||
− | To do long prostrations, begin by touching the five points to the ground, and then stretch out to your full length with your arms and legs extended fully upon the ground. In either case, begin and end each prostration by standing with your feet close, holding the lotus blossom mudra at your heart center. | + | To do long [[prostrations]], begin by [[touching]] the five points to the ground, and then stretch out to your full length with your arms and {{Wiki|legs}} extended fully upon the ground. In either case, begin and end each [[prostration]] by [[standing]] with your feet close, holding the [[lotus]] blossom [[mudra]] at your [[heart center]]. |
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− | From now until samsara becomes empty, I shall accomplish the benefits and happiness of all sentient parent beings. | + | From now until [[samsara]] becomes [[empty]], I shall accomplish the benefits and [[happiness]] of all [[sentient]] [[parent]] [[beings]]. |
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+ | The third section of the [[ngöndro practice]] is the generation of [[bodhicitta]]. Although each part of the [[ngöndro]] has great significance, the [[bodhicitta]] [[aspiration]] is particularly important. It allows us to see that every [[sentient being]] is special. In the view of true [[bodhicitta]], there is no partiality or prejudice. No one is worthless, nobody is higher or lower, everyone is valuable and beautiful. You don’t attach to transient [[manifestations]] which may appear ugly, bad or unimportant. | ||
− | + | Without [[bodhicitta]] there is no [[buddha]], no [[bodhisattvas]], and no [[enlightenment]]. There is only [[confusion]]. All that remains are [[ego]] games in a [[realm]] of [[selfish]] involvement. If you don’t have [[bodhicitta]] you are not actually [[taking refuge]] even if you go through the motions. There is no [[reality]] to this type of practice. To sincerely [[take refuge]] in the [[Three Jewels]] and [[feel]] close to the [[truth]] they embody, you must have [[bodhicitta]]. Without it, your efforts are forced, uptight and meaningless. With it, we acquire [[skillful means]]; we become kind and gentle and our practice becomes more powerful, beneficial and beautiful. | |
− | + | When the [[Buddha Shakyamuni]] was alive, there was a famous [[king]] known as [[Prasenajit]] who ruled much of {{Wiki|northern India}} from his capital in [[Sravasti]]. He was very devoted to the [[Buddha]] but didn’t have a lot of time to put into the practice because of all of his [[worldly]] duties. His [[heart]] was with the [[Buddha]], but being preoccupied with external affairs, he couldn’t connect too deeply with the [[Dharma]]. This made him {{Wiki|worry}}. So one day he asked the [[Buddha]] what to do about it. The [[Buddha]] said, “If you can observe just one practice, you will be applying yourself all of the time.’ | |
− | + | “Oh, and what is that?” asked the [[King]]. | |
+ | “The [[bodhicitta]],” said the [[Buddha]]. “You must bring [[bodhicitta]] into each of your daily [[activities]], whether you are [[standing]], walking, sitting, or [[sleeping]]. While you’re governing the {{Wiki|kingdom}} or wherever you are, if you keep [[bodhicitta]] in your [[heart]], it will [[transform]] all of your [[actions]] into the practice of the [[Dharma]].” | ||
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− | + | What is the meaning of [[bodhicitta]]? It is commonly translated as the [[mind]] or [[thought of enlightenment]] but more specifically, it stands for the union of [[love]], [[compassion]] and [[wisdom]]. [[Love]] means that you have a warm [[feeling]] of [[kindness]] toward every single [[sentient being]]. [[Compassion]] means that when you see any of these loved ones having difficulties, you immediately do whatever you can to help {{Wiki|comfort}} or [[release]] them. This is [[compassion]]. [[Wisdom]] is quite different, but must always be combined with [[love]] and [[compassion]]. [[Love]] and [[compassion]] are wonderful and good, but without [[wisdom]], you can’t come up with what [[sentient beings]] really need. | |
− | + | [[Wisdom]] involves {{Wiki|learning}} to apply [[love]] and [[compassion]] with skill, [[courage]] and commitment, free of [[ego-clinging]]. [[Ego-clinging]] tends to turn [[love]] and [[compassion]] into [[negative emotions]] which are inherently [[frustrating]]. Eventually, you can no longer stand it and you’re knocked to the ground by attempting to practice [[love]] and [[compassion]] without [[wisdom]]. So [[wisdom]] is indispensable. Another [[name]] for it is [[emptiness]]. [[Love]] and [[compassion]] equalize in [[emptiness]] and | |
+ | from there you can conduct more powerful [[forms]] of [[love]] and [[compassion]]. Continually adjust your efforts in [[relation]] to the [[beings]] who are to be served, and [[transform]] any tendency to [[cling]] to [[phenomena]]. These are basic [[wisdom]] [[activities]] [[inseparable]] from the [[love]] and [[compassion]] of [[bodhicitta]]. | ||
+ | All [[beings]] are special and we all share common goals. This is the basis on which to begin the practice of [[bodhicitta]]. We are all very much the same. I want [[happiness]], [[joy]] | ||
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− | + | and [[peace]] and do not appreciate being {{Wiki|hurt}} by anyone. In the same way, all other [[sentient being]] prefer [[happiness]], [[joy]] and [[peace]]. We share the same fundamental [[desires]] and have a common ground. There’s no difference between any of us at these levels, so in evaluating the real situation, we must learn to [[acknowledge]] the equality of ourselves and all others. This is a [[vital]] [[consideration]]. Sometimes it is difficult to have this [[attitude]], as [[emotions]] and old [[Wikipedia:Habit (psychology)|habit]] patterns do not support us in this [[effort]] and conjure more ego-tricks in our [[mind]]. To seriously begin, we must be {{Wiki|aware}} of these [[obstacles]] and continue to practice, [[mindful]] of the equality of all [[beings]]. | |
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− | + | Exchanging practice is another [[bodhicitta]] application, also known as tong-len. In this exercise we give our [[peace]] and [[joy]] to others and remove their [[pain]] and [[suffering]]. As your [[mental]] capabilities grow and you’re a little more unified in yourself and established in the [[reality]] of the [[bodhicitta]], you will have many opportunities to exchange your [[happiness]] for the [[sufferings]] of others. | |
+ | When you grow strong in applying the exchanging practices, the third stage of [[cultivating]] [[bodhicitta]] is considering that others are more dear than your [[own]] [[self]]. Every [[sentient being]] develops according to their [[own]] [[karma]], but given the opportunity, the [[mental]] [[attitude]] of [[bodhicitta]] can become so strong that you learn to [[feel]] that others are more important than yourself. This completely reverses our {{Wiki|present}} [[Wikipedia:Habit (psychology)|habit]] of [[ego-clinging]]. | ||
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− | + | These are the three primary aspects of [[bodhicitta]] practice. In the beginning we need [[to expand]] our capacity for [[love]], [[compassion]] and [[wisdom]]. Fully opening to this opportunity is very important. To bring the [[beauty]] of [[love]], [[compassion]] and [[wisdom]] to others, we have to open our [[heart]] right away. If we don’t do this now, we will be shut down today, tomorrow and the day after tomorrow, on through the years. Open the door to [[love]], [[compassion]] and [[wisdom]] now, immediately, according to your capacities. | |
− | + | Opening this door to all [[beings]] will not {{Wiki|decrease}} your [[inner peace]] and [[happiness]], rather it will expand the [[joy]] and [[sense]] of well-being in your [[life]]. Caring enough to [[love]] well, will [[initiate]] a completely new [[vision]] of the [[world]]. Presently, we’re only [[looking at]] it from one side of the coin; that’s how it is here in [[samsara]]. When we develop [[bodhicitta]] in our [[mind]], we begin to see the whole panorama. The entire [[universe]] arises with a [[sense]] of great [[openness]], [[joy]], and [[peace]]. We learn to [[relax]]. The [[bodhicitta]] [[attitude]] creates such a beautiful {{Wiki|atmosphere}} that everyone becomes your [[friend]] and you [[feel]] at home wherever you are; you’re never a stranger. [[Beauty]] follows wherever you go. | |
− | + | [[Bodhicitta]] brings a new [[understanding]] of the [[world]]. This is the {{Wiki|perfect}} place for you to learn. The text says, “From now until [[samsara]] becomes [[empty]], I shall accomplish the [[benefit]] and [[happiness]] of all [[sentient beings]].” You have finally found a [[permanent]] career; you don’t have to {{Wiki|worry}} about losing this job! It’s going to last forever, so you may as well do it with [[joy]], inspiration, [[vision]] and a [[peaceful heart]]. In [[Sanskrit]], practitioners of the [[bodhicitta]] | |
− | + | are called [[bodhisattvas]]. [[Sattva]] means one who is courageous in [[relation]] to the pursuit of [[enlightenment]]. [[Courage]] is primary. To carry the [[bodhicitta]], we must know its value and importance, but to continue to develop it we must have both [[courage]] and commitment. Don’t make the mistake of [[thinking]] that the [[moment]] you begin to [[practice the Dharma]], everything will become simple, and be easily taken [[care]] of. [[Life]] does not instantly become a [[pure land]] or an eternal grooving on a [[Sunday]] afternoon! | |
− | are called bodhisattvas. Sattva means one who is courageous in relation to the pursuit of enlightenment. Courage is primary. To carry the bodhicitta, we must know its value and importance, but to continue to develop it we must have both courage and commitment. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that the moment you begin to practice the Dharma, everything will become simple, and be easily taken care of. Life does not instantly become a pure land or an eternal grooving on a Sunday afternoon! | ||
− | To practice the Dharma does not mean running away from samsara. Since we are already engaged in this world, we should observe everything closely. Until we begin to practice, we’re always trying to hide, trying to run away. This is futile because we always end up unhappy. By practicing the Dharma we can begin to be free in this world. We can engage it creatively. Look closely, discover the meaning, the inner pattern so that you don’t have to run and hide all of the time. | + | To [[practice the Dharma]] does not mean running away from [[samsara]]. Since we are already engaged in this [[world]], we should observe everything closely. Until we begin to practice, we’re always trying to hide, trying to run away. This is futile because we always end up [[unhappy]]. By [[practicing the Dharma]] we can begin to be free in this [[world]]. We can engage it creatively. Look closely, discover the meaning, the inner pattern so that you don’t have to run and hide all of the time. |
− | This doesn’t mean we should settle for simply enduring samsara and being abused. Therefore Buddha encouraged us to be brave and committed to our own enlightenment. When we do this, everything is transformed and purified. We learn to move with the situation, full of joy, vision and confidence, whether here or in the bardo. With this understanding, we are able to enjoy and appreciate our position. The future Buddha Maitreya teaches that this realization lets us move from life to life as if we were strolling from one garden to another, from park to park. | + | This doesn’t mean we should settle for simply enduring [[samsara]] and being abused. Therefore [[Buddha]] encouraged us to be brave and committed to our [[own]] [[enlightenment]]. When we do this, everything is [[transformed]] and [[purified]]. We learn to move with the situation, full of [[joy]], [[vision]] and [[confidence]], whether here or in the [[bardo]]. With this [[understanding]], we are able to enjoy and appreciate our position. The [[future Buddha]] [[Maitreya]] teaches that this [[realization]] lets us move from [[life]] to [[life]] as if we were strolling from one [[garden]] to another, from park to park. |
− | First we considered the four attitudes that reverse the mind, the four thoughts of renunciation which bring a clear understanding of samsara. Then we talked about taking refuge. Together, these summarize the first teachings of Buddha Shakyamuni. These are known as the foundation or ground teachings and are primarily associated with the Hinayana vehicle although they lead all the way to the Vajrayana. In this third section, we have focused on the bodhicitta, the essential teaching of the Mahayana. These three practices serve as the basis for the Vajrayana teachings. The practice is structured in this order to develop our understanding step by step, in a natural way. | + | First we considered the four attitudes that reverse the [[mind]], the [[four thoughts]] of [[renunciation]] which bring a [[clear understanding]] of [[samsara]]. Then we talked about [[taking refuge]]. Together, these summarize the first [[teachings of Buddha]] [[Shakyamuni]]. These are known as the foundation or ground teachings and are primarily associated with the [[Hinayana]] [[vehicle]] although they lead all the way to the [[Vajrayana]]. In this third section, we have focused on the [[bodhicitta]], the [[essential teaching]] of the [[Mahayana]]. These three practices serve as the basis for the [[Vajrayana teachings]]. The practice is structured in this order to develop our [[understanding]] step by step, in a natural way. |
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− | Now we’re going to examine a section of the ngöndro called mandala practice. The first two sections represent Hinayana and Mahayana levels of instruction. Mandala practice corresponds to Vajrayana teachings. Mandala is a Sanskrit term which has several meanings and can be understood on various levels. Mandala has two roots: man means mind and dala refers to a circle, as well as to maintain. The term indicates a primary pattern reflected through various techniques which help us maintain our minds in a dynamic balance. This is popularly expressed through diagrams symbolizing the state of full realization which are used as supports for meditation and visualization. | + | Now we’re going to examine a section of the [[ngöndro]] called [[mandala]] practice. The first two [[sections]] represent [[Hinayana]] and [[Mahayana]] levels of instruction. [[Mandala]] practice corresponds to [[Vajrayana teachings]]. [[Mandala]] is a [[Sanskrit]] term which has several meanings and can be understood on various levels. [[Mandala]] has two [[roots]]: man means [[mind]] and [[dala]] refers to a circle, as well as to maintain. The term indicates a primary pattern reflected through various [[techniques]] which help us maintain our [[minds]] in a dynamic [[balance]]. This is popularly expressed through diagrams [[symbolizing]] the [[state]] of full [[realization]] which are used as supports for [[meditation]] and [[visualization]]. |
− | In Vajrayana Buddhism, there are many different types of mandalas. They may be visualized, painted on a thangka, a temple wall, or drawn on paper. Sand mandalas are created for various purposes, and there are even some three-dimensional ones. Regardless of the specific style, they all represent the mandala | + | In [[Vajrayana Buddhism]], there are many different types of [[mandalas]]. They may be [[visualized]], painted on a [[thangka]], a [[temple]] wall, or drawn on paper. Sand [[mandalas]] are created for various purposes, and there are even some three-dimensional ones. Regardless of the specific style, they all represent the [[mandala]] |
− | of awakening to the one true nature. By looking at the relationships that comprise the mandala, by meditating and concentrating on the meanings it embodies, one is enriched and illumined by the light of primordial wisdom. What is expressed externally through these symbols is to be understood inwardly. Each line and color used in a mandala relates to a different aspect of mind and awareness. That’s why there’s such a rich display of form and energy in thangka art; it is an emblem of primordial awareness. This is a general explanation of the mandala principle. | + | of [[awakening]] to the one [[true nature]]. By [[looking at]] the relationships that comprise the [[mandala]], by [[meditating]] and {{Wiki|concentrating}} on the meanings it [[embodies]], one is enriched and illumined by the {{Wiki|light}} of [[primordial wisdom]]. What is expressed externally through these [[symbols]] is to be understood inwardly. Each line and {{Wiki|color}} used in a [[mandala]] relates to a different aspect of [[mind]] and [[awareness]]. That’s why there’s such a rich display of [[form]] and [[energy]] in [[thangka]] [[art]]; it is an {{Wiki|emblem}} of [[primordial awareness]]. This is a general explanation of the [[mandala]] [[principle]]. |
− | The mandala we use in the ngöndro practice is called an offering mandala although it is also referred to as the wisdom mandala. By making mandala offerings we begin accumulating merit and wisdom. Merit energy is necessary to actualize our Buddha nature. To understand why this is so, consider how everything | + | The [[mandala]] we use in the [[ngöndro practice]] is called an [[offering]] [[mandala]] although it is also referred to as the [[wisdom]] [[mandala]]. By making [[mandala offerings]] we begin [[accumulating merit and wisdom]]. [[Merit]] [[energy]] is necessary to actualize our [[Buddha nature]]. To understand why this is so, consider how everything |
− | develops according to the quality of our activities. Our karma echoes back to us through our experiences. This is consistently true. It never varies, or gets things mixed up. All change proceeds on the basis of specific causes and conditions. The first movement gives rise to the second, effects follow causes and in turn become causes for similar effects in the future. Events manifest continuously, one after another. | + | develops according to the [[quality]] of our [[activities]]. Our [[karma]] echoes back to us through our [[experiences]]. This is consistently true. It never varies, or gets things mixed up. All change proceeds on the basis of specific [[causes and conditions]]. The first {{Wiki|movement}} gives rise to the second, effects follow [[causes]] and in turn become [[causes]] for similar effects in the {{Wiki|future}}. Events [[manifest]] continuously, one after another. |
− | There are many other ways to understand mandala. The entire physical cosmos is part of a basic, naturally existing mandala. This cosmic mandala contains all phenomena. The luminosity aspect of the true nature gives rise to all observable qualities as well as the wisdoms; everything is complete within this | + | There are many other ways to understand [[mandala]]. The entire [[physical]] [[cosmos]] is part of a basic, naturally [[existing]] [[mandala]]. This [[cosmic]] [[mandala]] contains all [[phenomena]]. The [[luminosity]] aspect of the [[true nature]] gives rise to all observable qualities as well as the [[wisdoms]]; everything is complete within this |
− | great circle, nothing is missing. This natural configuration is the site of the manifestation and transformation of all things, continually displaying new patterns. The ceaseless activity of the cosmic mandala pervades the universe. In the Vajrayana, this is known as the basic, spontaneously inherent mandala. | + | great circle, nothing is missing. This natural configuration is the site of the [[manifestation]] and [[transformation]] of all things, continually displaying new patterns. The ceaseless [[activity]] of the [[cosmic]] [[mandala]] pervades the [[universe]]. In the [[Vajrayana]], this is known as the basic, spontaneously [[inherent]] [[mandala]]. |
− | A second form of this mandala is known as the wisdom mandala, and this refers to the primordial nature of mind. The true nature is already perfect, the two | + | A second [[form]] of this [[mandala]] is known as the [[wisdom]] [[mandala]], and this refers to the [[primordial nature]] of [[mind]]. The [[true nature]] is already {{Wiki|perfect}}, the [[two accumulations of merit]] and [[wisdom]] are [[primordially]] complete; there’s nothing to be added or taken away, there’s nothing we have to establish or {{Wiki|purify}}. [[Love]], [[compassion]], [[wisdom]], [[understanding]], [[knowledge]], all these beautiful qualities are fully {{Wiki|present}}. Everything we say, [[feel]], and think appears within the [[perfect wisdom]] [[mandala]] of true [[awareness]]. Even external [[phenomena]] arise within the radiance of this [[mandala]]. It is the source [[mandala]] for all [[vision]], [[insight]], [[compassion]] and beneficial [[activities]]. It is called complete because there is nothing missing. It remains exactly as it is all the time, regardless of the [[transitions]] and changes in the external or internal environments. By [[knowing]] this [[mandala]] clearly, you can understand the {{Wiki|subtle}} working of [[phenomenal]] |
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+ | relationships and discover the [[true nature of all things]]. This level of [[vision]] is developed through regular [[meditation]] and practice. Like ascending a staircase or a ladder, you will progressively gain [[insight]] into all [[forms]] and aspects of the [[world]] through the [[mandala]] [[principle]]. This is known as the [[wisdom]] [[mandala]] or the [[mandala]] of the [[path]]. | ||
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+ | By [[understanding]] the [[complete wisdom]] [[mandala]], you connect with the [[primordial nature]]. This is the third level of [[mandala]] and is known as the [[awakened]] [[mandala]]. You see the entire [[universe]] as a display of the three [[vajra]] states: [[vajra body]], [[vajra speech]] and [[vajra mind]]. Whatever you see is the [[indestructible]] display of the [[wisdom body]] and whatever you hear, whether words or other {{Wiki|sounds}}, are all [[forms]] of the [[indestructible]] {{Wiki|speech}} of the [[Buddhas]]. | ||
− | + | All [[manifestations]] of [[space]] and [[awareness]] reveal the {{Wiki|deathless}} [[nature of the mind]] of all the [[Buddhas]]. When you {{Wiki|perceive}} things in their [[wholeness]] and {{Wiki|totality}}, that is a [[vision]] of the [[awakened]] [[mandala]]. By [[contemplating]] the [[true nature]] through the [[mandala]] we can understand all aspects of [[realization]]. Our [[meditation]] becomes free of [[dualistic]] notions such as [[meditation]] and [[meditator]] and we are [[enlightened]] to the [[singularity]] at the [[root]] of [[appearances]] through the [[mandala]] of [[awakening]]. | |
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+ | [[Buddhahood]] is the [[embodiment]] of [[love]], [[compassion]] and [[wisdom]]. We have to realize that this is our [[true nature]]. In order to [[awaken]] such an [[understanding]] in our [[lives]] we require competent assistance and [[auspicious]] [[conditions]]. When the right [[causes and conditions]] come together there’s no need to be in [[doubt]] about actualizing the fruit. You will definitely achieve the right result if your practice is [[empowered]] with the appropriate [[causes and conditions]]. You | ||
− | + | will reap exactly what you have planted. If you consider it, you already have the {{Wiki|perfect}} [[cause]], which is your [[Buddha nature]]. Now we have to [[manifest]] supportive [[conditions]] through the [[accumulation of merit]]. [[Buddha]] refers to these positive [[activities]] as the [[six paramitas]]. Skillfully applying the [[paramitas]], we can merge all our [[activities]] with the [[primordial nature]] of [[mind]]. This is the way to cultivate our buddha-seed, so that our [[Buddha nature]] flourishes and blossoms into [[Buddhahood]]. | |
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+ | Among the [[six paramitas]], the first is called [[generosity]], or in [[Sanskrit]] [[dana paramita]], which translates as “the practice of [[transcendental]] [[generosity]].” [[Generosity]] means giving and sharing. Why do we need to give and share? To counter the [[Wikipedia:Habit (psychology)|habit]] of [[ego-clinging]], which is always [[grasping]], always holding on or holding back. Through the [[practice of generosity]] we’re loosening that tendency, releasing that tightness and making everything flow more smoothly so that this [[openness]] is available to everyone. | ||
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+ | When you offer [[mandala]], [[visualize]] [[Guru Padmasambhava]] as the [[embodiment]] of all of the [[Buddhas]], the [[Dharma]] and the [[Sangha]], or of all [[gurus]], [[devas]] and [[dakinis]]. [[Feel]] deeply into the presence of [[Guru Rinpoche]], [[Buddha Shakyamuni]], [[Tara]], and all of the [[enlightened beings]] who appear before you, and then make the [[mandala offering]]. | ||
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− | + | ===[[Understand this offering as a gift to all enlightened beings and chant the following lines]]:=== | |
− | Understand this offering as a gift to all enlightened beings and chant the following lines: | ||
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− | The bodies, enjoyments, possessions, and glories Of the succession of all my lifetimes I offer to the Three Jewels, In order to complete the two accumulations. | + | The [[bodies]], enjoyments, possessions, and glories Of the succession of all my lifetimes I offer to the [[Three Jewels]], In order to complete the [[two accumulations]]. |
− | The mandala is a complete and total offering. Nothing is held back. It is a gift in which you really open your heart and share that fullness with all sentient beings without reservations. You share everything, not only your possessions or earthly things, but the entire universe, including all the | + | The [[mandala]] is a complete and total [[offering]]. Nothing is held back. It is a [[gift]] in which you really open your [[heart]] and share that fullness with all [[sentient beings]] without reservations. You share everything, not only your possessions or [[earthly]] things, but the entire [[universe]], [[including]] all the |
− | galaxies, the sun, moon and stars, and the earth itself. Offer everything internal as well; all sentient beings, especially your own body, speech and mind. And not simply the vehicle of this lifetime, but “the bodies, enjoyments, possessions, and glories of the succession of all my lifetimes.” Think about all | + | {{Wiki|galaxies}}, the {{Wiki|sun}}, [[moon]] and {{Wiki|stars}}, and the [[earth]] itself. Offer everything internal as well; all [[sentient beings]], especially your [[own]] [[body, speech and mind]]. And not simply the [[vehicle]] of this [[lifetime]], but “the [[bodies]], enjoyments, possessions, and glories of the succession of all my lifetimes.” Think about all |
− | while making the mudra which symbolizes these things and then do the visualization. This is called the simple mandala mudra with five points: a center and four directions symbolizing the whole universe. The abhidharma explains that our world system has four continents situated in the four directions around | + | while making the [[mudra]] which [[symbolizes]] these things and then do the [[visualization]]. This is called the simple [[mandala mudra]] with five points: a center and [[four directions]] [[symbolizing]] the whole [[universe]]. The [[abhidharma]] explains that our [[world]] system has [[four continents]] situated in the [[four directions]] around |
− | Mt. Sumeru. This is symbolized by the basic mandala mudra, but when visualizing this you can also imagine the sun in the east and the moon in the west. This is known as the seven-point mandala offering and it is the briefest form. More detailed versions such as the twentyone point, twenty-three point, the thirty-seven point mandala and others may include whole sadhanas and prayers. | + | [[Mt. Sumeru]]. This is [[symbolized]] by the basic [[mandala mudra]], but when [[visualizing]] this you can also [[imagine]] the {{Wiki|sun}} in the [[east]] and the [[moon]] in the [[west]]. This is known as the seven-point [[mandala offering]] and it is the briefest [[form]]. More detailed versions such as the twentyone point, twenty-three point, the thirty-seven point [[mandala]] and others may include whole [[sadhanas]] and [[prayers]]. |
− | The mandala mudra has a lot of meanings. On the external level, it symbolizes the cosmology which the Buddha presented in the abhidharma. Inwardly it symbolizes the five active organs; eye, ear, nose, tongue and body, as well as the five consciousnesses and their five objects; form, sound, fragrances, | + | The [[mandala mudra]] has a lot of meanings. On the external level, it [[symbolizes]] the [[cosmology]] which the [[Buddha]] presented in the [[abhidharma]]. Inwardly it [[symbolizes]] the five active {{Wiki|organs}}; [[eye]], {{Wiki|ear}}, {{Wiki|nose}}, {{Wiki|tongue}} and [[body]], as well as the [[five consciousnesses]] and their five [[objects]]; [[form]], [[sound]], fragrances, |
− | flavors and feelings. Further, there’s five elements, five psycho-physical aggregates, five colors, and five poisons. On a deeper level, there are the five wisdoms. In the Vajrayana teachings, all of this is called the vajra body. When we look at the vajra body, it has five points; two legs, two arms and a head. This symbolizes and contains the whole universe, and is realized according to your understanding and the strength of your meditation. So the mandala is an all-inclusive offering. You’re giving to all of the buddhas, bodhisattvas, dakas, dakinis, and arhats, until there is nothing left to be offered. By | + | [[flavors]] and [[feelings]]. Further, there’s [[five elements]], [[five psycho-physical aggregates]], [[five colors]], and [[five poisons]]. On a deeper level, there are the [[five wisdoms]]. In the [[Vajrayana teachings]], all of this is called the [[vajra body]]. When we look at the [[vajra body]], it has five points; two {{Wiki|legs}}, two arms and a head. This [[symbolizes]] and contains the whole [[universe]], and is [[realized]] according to your [[understanding]] and the strength of your [[meditation]]. So the [[mandala]] is an all-inclusive [[offering]]. You’re giving to all of the [[buddhas]], [[bodhisattvas]], [[dakas]], [[dakinis]], and [[arhats]], until there is nothing left to be [[offered]]. By |
− | including it all, the entire universe, you too, are completely transformed. Make this offering again and again. | + | [[including]] it all, the entire [[universe]], you too, are completely [[transformed]]. Make this [[offering]] again and again. |
− | To practice mandala in the most common way, hold the mudra, chant the verses and then make the offering. This is a form of generosity practice but it also contains the other five paramitas. To continually abide in that transcendental understanding is known as discipline or morality, the second paramita. To be courageous in your commitment so that it is a steady path, requires tolerance or patience. If your practice is full of love and joy, you have aroused the | + | To practice [[mandala]] in the most common way, hold the [[mudra]], [[chant]] the verses and then make the [[offering]]. This is a [[form]] of [[generosity]] practice but it also contains the other [[five paramitas]]. To continually abide in that [[transcendental]] [[understanding]] is known as [[discipline]] or [[morality]], the second [[paramita]]. To be courageous in your commitment so that it is a steady [[path]], requires [[tolerance]] or [[patience]]. If your practice is full of [[love]] and [[joy]], you have aroused the |
− | joyful effort paramita. To clearly visualize the objects of refuge, including all the buddhas and bodhisattvas, and contemplate the profound meaning behind the mudra without losing your focus, is the practice of transcendent concentration. Keep your mind on the target. To understand all of this as a display of the true nature, an ongoing manifestation of the wisdoms, without holding or grasping, is the practice of transcendental wisdom. Mandala practice enables us to perform all six paramitas at once. This is an example of the skillful means available through the Vajrayana teachings. There is no need to separate | + | [[joyful]] [[effort]] [[paramita]]. To clearly [[visualize]] the [[objects]] of [[refuge]], [[including]] all the [[buddhas]] and [[bodhisattvas]], and [[contemplate]] the [[profound meaning]] behind the [[mudra]] without losing your focus, is the practice of [[transcendent]] [[concentration]]. Keep your [[mind]] on the target. To understand all of this as a display of the [[true nature]], an ongoing [[manifestation]] of the [[wisdoms]], without holding or [[grasping]], is the practice of [[transcendental wisdom]]. [[Mandala]] practice enables us to perform all [[six paramitas]] at once. This is an example of the [[skillful means]] available through the [[Vajrayana teachings]]. There is no need to separate |
− | the paramitas, or think, “Today I’ll practice generosity, tomorrow discipline, and next year I’ll practice patience.” We can merge them all together into one practice which is whole and continuous in or out of meditation. | + | the [[paramitas]], or think, “Today I’ll practice [[generosity]], tomorrow [[discipline]], and next year I’ll practice [[patience]].” We can merge them all together into one practice which is whole and continuous in or out of [[meditation]]. |
− | The more complex mandala offerings involve the use of a ritual mandala plate which may be made of various materials. Metals such as bronze, copper, brass or silver are popular. If you can afford solid gold, or one ornamented with diamonds, rubies and emeralds, that is better yet. Use the best one you can afford. If you are a poor wandering yogi and haven’t been able to acquire anything fancy, you can use stones, | + | The more complex [[mandala offerings]] involve the use of a [[ritual]] [[mandala]] plate which may be made of various materials. Metals such as bronze, {{Wiki|copper}}, brass or {{Wiki|silver}} are popular. If you can afford solid {{Wiki|gold}}, or one ornamented with [[diamonds]], rubies and {{Wiki|emeralds}}, that is better yet. Use the best one you can afford. If you are a poor wandering [[yogi]] and haven’t been able to acquire anything fancy, you can use stones, |
− | ceramic tiles or even smooth pieces of wood. Make the offering material of whatever your situation allows, but in these modern times, many of you have access to beautiful glass tears, polished or semi-precious stones, jewels and metals, cardamom seeds, or grains like washed rice, which may be gently | + | ceramic tiles or even smooth pieces of [[wood]]. Make the [[offering]] material of whatever your situation allows, but in these {{Wiki|modern}} times, many of you have access to beautiful glass {{Wiki|tears}}, polished or semi-precious stones, [[jewels]] and metals, {{Wiki|cardamom}} [[seeds]], or grains like washed {{Wiki|rice}}, which may be gently |
− | sprinkled with saffron-colored water, and other nice things. The mandala plate symbolizes the ground of the universe, as well as the alaya, the eighth consciousness or | + | sprinkled with saffron-colored [[water]], and other nice things. The [[mandala]] plate [[symbolizes]] the ground of the [[universe]], as well as the [[alaya]], the [[eighth consciousness]] or “[[subconscious storehouse]]” where all of our [[Wikipedia:Habit (psychology)|habit]] patterns are kept intact. We’ve dumped a lot of junk in that closet and it needs to be cleaned up. Well, through the [[mandala]] practice, the clean-up will begin. |
− | Having prepared saffron-colored water, dip the tip of the ring finger of your right hand into it and transfer this drop to the center of the mandala plate which is held in the left hand. Rub the mandala plate with the inside of your bare right wrist, three times in a clockwise direction. This symbolizes the cleaning up of your subconscious which actually comes about through the power of the accumulation of merit and the practice of the six paramitas. After | + | Having prepared saffron-colored [[water]], dip the tip of the ring finger of your right hand into it and transfer this drop to the center of the [[mandala]] plate which is held in the left hand. Rub the [[mandala]] plate with the inside of your bare right wrist, three times in a {{Wiki|clockwise}} [[direction]]. This [[symbolizes]] the cleaning up of your {{Wiki|subconscious}} which actually comes about through the power of the [[accumulation of merit]] and the [[practice of the six paramitas]]. After |
− | this, use your right hand to take the offerings which have already been washed and prepared and arrange them on the plate in the form of the seven-point mandala as you begin chanting the verses. When the arrangement is complete, offer it up to the objects of refuge with both hands. Having chanted the verse, lower the plate and tilt its contents back into the cloth on your lap. Repeat this again and again. That’s the basic form of mandala practice. | + | this, use your right hand to take the [[offerings]] which have already been washed and prepared and arrange them on the plate in the [[form]] of the seven-point [[mandala]] as you begin [[chanting]] the verses. When the arrangement is complete, offer it up to the [[objects]] of [[refuge]] with both hands. Having chanted the verse, lower the plate and tilt its contents back into the cloth on your lap. Repeat this again and again. That’s the basic [[form]] of [[mandala]] practice. |
− | If you have time and want to do something more elaborate, you can create various mandalas which involve visualizing the body, speech and mind, the five aggregates, and everything else in the universe. With all this in mind, make the mandala offering. Mandala is an extremely simple but special Vajrayana technique for the accumulation of merit, which is a very necessary and important aspect of the path. | + | If you have time and want to do something more elaborate, you can create various [[mandalas]] which involve [[visualizing]] the [[body, speech and mind]], the [[five aggregates]], and everything else in the [[universe]]. With all this in [[mind]], make the [[mandala offering]]. [[Mandala]] is an extremely simple but special [[Vajrayana]] technique for the [[accumulation of merit]], which is a very necessary and important aspect of the [[path]]. |
− | The first time that Gampopa came to meet Milarepa, he was told to wait for about two weeks. Milarepa didn’t usually do this kind of thing to his students. As an old man, he was often hanging out in his cave and would casually meet whoever came to see him. But this time, he postponed the meeting for awhile. The day finally came and they met in the open air outside the cave. Milarepa sat upon a big boulder. Gampopa made prostrations and approached respectfully, offering gold and tea leaves. Milarepa put them aside and asked, “What is your name?” | + | The first time that [[Gampopa]] came to meet [[Milarepa]], he was told to wait for about two weeks. [[Milarepa]] didn’t usually do this kind of thing to his students. As an old man, he was often hanging out in his [[cave]] and would casually meet whoever came to see him. But this time, he postponed the meeting for awhile. The day finally came and they met in the open [[air]] outside the [[cave]]. [[Milarepa]] sat upon a big boulder. [[Gampopa]] made [[prostrations]] and approached respectfully, [[offering]] {{Wiki|gold}} and tea leaves. [[Milarepa]] put them aside and asked, “What is your [[name]]?” |
− | Gampopa said “Sodnam Rinchen.” Sodnam translates as merit and rinchen means very precious. | + | [[Gampopa]] said “Sodnam Rinchen.” Sodnam translates as [[merit]] and rinchen means very [[precious]]. |
− | When Milarepa heard this he mumbled the name a number of times, and finally said, “You have a very good name. Merit dispels obstacles and transforms ignorance so that you can actualize enlightenment and become precious to everyone. Merit is one of the two accumulations, the other being wisdom. When the | + | When [[Milarepa]] heard this he mumbled the [[name]] a number of times, and finally said, “You have a very good [[name]]. [[Merit]] dispels [[obstacles]] and transforms [[ignorance]] so that you can actualize [[enlightenment]] and become [[precious]] to everyone. [[Merit]] is one of the [[two accumulations]], the other being [[wisdom]]. When the |
− | accumulations of merit and wisdom are complete, you will become precious to all sentient beings.” He paused and looked at the things Gampopa had placed before him. “I see that you offer me gold and tea leaves, but for an old man like myself, gold is not really a good friend, and I know that we aren’t going to get along. Leave here with it while you can, before we get upset at each other; please take it back. And tea is really good, I like tea, but I don’t | + | [[accumulations]] of [[merit]] and [[wisdom]] are complete, you will become [[precious]] to all [[sentient beings]].” He paused and looked at the things [[Gampopa]] had placed before him. “I see that you offer me {{Wiki|gold}} and tea leaves, but for an old man like myself, {{Wiki|gold}} is not really a [[good friend]], and I know that we aren’t going to get along. Leave here with it while you can, before we get upset at each other; please take it back. And tea is really good, I like tea, but I don’t |
− | have a pot to make it in, so I really can’t use that either; please take the tea too, thank you.” For Gampopa, all of this was an indication that in order to achieve enlightenment he would need to accumulate a lot of merit! | + | have a pot to make it in, so I really can’t use that either; please take the tea too, thank you.” For [[Gampopa]], all of this was an indication that in order to achieve [[enlightenment]] he would need to [[accumulate]] a lot of [[merit]]! |
− | That was Milarepa’s first message to Gampopa, but it applies to everyone. Those who want to achieve enlightenment for the sake of all beings must strive to accumulate merit. In the effort to dispel obscurations and reveal our Buddha nature, merit energy makes a big difference. Merit arising from virtuous actions is the source of supportive conditions necessary to actualize our Buddha nature. We have the cause, but we need the special assistance of merit energy to get enlightened. There’s a famous quotation by Nagarjuna, | + | That was [[Milarepa’s]] first message to [[Gampopa]], but it applies to everyone. Those who want to achieve [[enlightenment]] [[for the sake of all beings]] must strive to [[accumulate]] [[merit]]. In the [[effort]] to dispel [[obscurations]] and reveal our [[Buddha nature]], [[merit]] [[energy]] makes a big difference. [[Merit]] [[arising]] from [[virtuous actions]] is the source of supportive [[conditions]] necessary to actualize our [[Buddha nature]]. We have the [[cause]], but we need the special assistance of [[merit]] [[energy]] to get [[enlightened]]. There’s a famous quotation by [[Nagarjuna]], “[[Awakening]] to the [[dharmakaya]] is the result of the [[accumulation of wisdom]], [[awakening]] to the [[rupakaya]] comes from the [[accumulation of merit]].’ |
− | Positive activities such as generosity, discipline, compassion, tolerance and concentration, which involve concepts and the exercise of speech, thought or motion, are all considered part of the accumulation of merit. The accumulation of wisdom is beyond all activity; the mind simply relaxes in the primordial | + | Positive [[activities]] such as [[generosity]], [[discipline]], [[compassion]], [[tolerance]] and [[concentration]], which involve [[Wikipedia:concept|concepts]] and the exercise of {{Wiki|speech}}, [[thought]] or {{Wiki|motion}}, are all considered part of the [[accumulation of merit]]. The [[accumulation of wisdom]] is beyond all [[activity]]; the [[mind]] simply relaxes in the [[primordial]] |
− | sphere, bright within the fullness of the Buddha nature. Activity applies to motion in the mundane world, to the relative changes which appear on the surface. But the surface itself is only an aspect of a deeper level, so it doesn’t make much sense to separate things too much. We need both merit and wisdom and there is no need to isolate these aspects or swing back and forth, alternately accepting one and rejecting the other. We have to embrace the totality and bring all action into the sphere of enlightenment. This is why we need the two accumulation practices. | + | [[sphere]], bright within the fullness of the [[Buddha nature]]. [[Activity]] applies to {{Wiki|motion}} in the [[mundane world]], to the [[relative]] changes which appear on the surface. But the surface itself is only an aspect of a deeper level, so it doesn’t make much [[sense]] to separate things too much. We need both [[merit]] and [[wisdom]] and there is no need to isolate these aspects or swing back and forth, alternately accepting one and rejecting the other. We have to embrace the {{Wiki|totality}} and bring all [[action]] into the [[sphere]] of [[enlightenment]]. This is why we need the two [[accumulation]] practices. |
− | Mandala offerings accumulate merit through the observance of the first four paramitas; through mental concentration we begin to accumulate wisdom and actualize our Buddha nature. After making offerings, meditate for a moment on Guru Padmasambhava and all the lineage masters. Then simply relax in the natural state without holding to any particular thought or image. Allow every activity to transform into the free play of the true nature. This is the accumulation of wisdom. By merging the two, we are practicing the union of the two accumulations. In truth, merit and wisdom are never separate from each other, so to practice in this way reflects the nature of their non-dual union. | + | [[Mandala offerings]] [[accumulate]] [[merit]] through the [[observance]] of the first four [[paramitas]]; through [[mental concentration]] we begin to [[accumulate]] [[wisdom]] and actualize our [[Buddha nature]]. After making [[offerings]], [[meditate]] for a [[moment]] on [[Guru Padmasambhava]] and all the [[lineage masters]]. Then simply [[relax]] in the natural [[state]] without holding to any particular [[thought]] or image. Allow every [[activity]] to [[transform]] into the free play of the [[true nature]]. This is the [[accumulation of wisdom]]. By merging the two, we are practicing the union of the [[two accumulations]]. In [[truth]], [[merit]] and [[wisdom]] are never separate from each other, so to practice in this way reflects the [[nature]] of their [[non-dual]] union. |
− | Accumulation practices are really necessary. The true nature is like a mirror which reflects relative, conditional appearances. The phenomenal level is a reflection of the true nature. That’s why Buddha taught that form is emptiness, and emptiness is form; they are never really separate from each other. We want to know the true nature as it is in its entirety not just a little corner of it. Without depreciating or exaggerating, we must discover it as it is. | + | [[Accumulation]] practices are really necessary. The [[true nature]] is like a [[mirror]] which reflects [[relative]], [[conditional]] [[appearances]]. The [[phenomenal]] level is a {{Wiki|reflection}} of the [[true nature]]. That’s why [[Buddha]] [[taught]] that [[form]] is [[emptiness]], and [[emptiness]] is [[form]]; they are never really separate from each other. We want to know the [[true nature]] as it is in its entirety not just a little corner of it. Without depreciating or exaggerating, we must discover it as it is. |
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+ | Therefore it is important to combine the [[accumulation of merit]] and [[wisdom]] through [[meditation]] on the [[true nature]]. Conjoined with [[wisdom]], the [[merit]] [[accumulated]] by acts of [[generosity]], [[love]], [[compassion and bodhicitta]], resonates with the [[primordial nature]] until it almost begins to shine. A very famous | ||
+ | [[Dzogchen]] quotation says, “[[Awareness]] of the [[primordial state]] comes about through the practice of the [[accumulations]].” Even the [[highest]] [[Dzogchen teachings]] pointing beyond [[activity]] and [[effort]], require some [[energy]] in order to accelerate the full, clear and {{Wiki|perfect}} [[realization]] of self-originated [[awareness]]. | ||
+ | sFOURTH: The [[Purification]] of Obscurations-The [[Meditation]] of [[Vajrasattva]] | ||
− | Vajrasattva is | + | [[Vajrasattva]] is called the all {{Wiki|pervasive}} sovereign of both the outer and [[inner tantras]]. He is also known as the Lord of the [[Body]], {{Wiki|Speech}}, [[Mind]], Qualities and [[Activities]] of all the [[Buddhas]]. [[Vajrasattva]] is the supreme [[embodiment]] of the whole [[tantric]] [[mandala]] and lord of all the [[buddha families]]. The [[buddha families]] display the aspects of [[primordial wisdom]] which pervade the [[world]] in every [[direction]]. The major radiations are known as the [[five wisdoms]], which are [[symbolized]] by the [[five buddha families]]. |
− | + | [[Vajrasattva]] is a [[Sanskrit]] [[name]]. [[Vajra]] means “[[diamond]]” and [[symbolizes]] the innermost [[essence]] of [[love]], [[compassion]] and [[wisdom]] which is [[indestructible]]. [[Sattva]] is one who is heroic or courageous. The union of [[wisdom]] and [[compassion]] describes the [[nature]] of [[Vajrasattva]] and all the [[buddhas]]. All of the [[extraordinary]] [[powers]] and qualities of our [[Buddha nature]] derive from this [[indestructible]], vajra-like [[essence]]. Those who discover this [[vajra]] [[nature]], are [[enlightened]]. To practice on [[Vajrasattva]] is a {{Wiki|reflection}} on | |
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+ | the external level signifying that we are striving to [[awaken]]. On the inner level we are developing unyielding [[courage]], so that in trying to bring a [[clear understanding]] of all this to [[sentient beings]], we actually begin to radiate and {{Wiki|communicate}} the [[transcendental]] [[beauty]] of these qualities. | ||
+ | Having discovered the [[indestructible]] [[courage]] of [[bodhicitta]], the {{Wiki|perfect}} union of [[love]], [[compassion]] and [[wisdom]], or the [[non-duality]] of [[skillful]] [[methods]] of | ||
− | + | [[activity]] and emptiness-awareness, we can begin to apply ourselves. If this was not our [[true nature]], it would be futile to practice. We would just be wasting our time. Without this [[vajra essence]], all efforts would be completely useless. No {{Wiki|matter}} how much you try to make {{Wiki|charcoal}} white, it will remain black. The [[indestructible]] [[attributes]] of our true being are hidden behind all these [[Wikipedia:Habit (psychology)|habit]] patterns. To go beyond them, we must evoke [[vajra]] [[courage]] and a firm commitment. This is why we need to practice on [[Vajrasattva]] as [[Guru Padmasambhava]] instructed. | |
− | + | The [[visualization]] of [[Vajrasattva]] is a support for the [[realization]] of our [[Buddha nature]]. Why do we need support? Because we are so habituated to our conceptions that we continually relate to the [[world]] as if there were an [[inherently existent]] [[dualism]] of [[subject]] and [[object]]. We need to work with the [[mental]] [[attitude]] which characterizes our {{Wiki|present}} [[experience]]. When we move beyond [[duality]] and merge with [[Vajrasattva]] in the [[true nature]] as it is, there will no longer be any need for external supports to invoke the [[intrinsic reality]] of [[indestructible]] [[courage]]. | |
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− | + | There are two ways we employ this practice. Both are designed to help us discover our hidden [[Vajrasattva]] [[nature]]. The first is to [[visualize]] [[Buddha]] [[Vajrasattva]] above the {{Wiki|crown}} of your head. This is practicing according to the system of the [[outer tantras]]. According to the [[inner tantras]], [[visualize]] yourself as having completely merged and become one with [[Vajrasattva]]. | |
− | + | These two [[forms]] are called [[visualizing]] the [[deity]] in front of you or mdun-gyi, and self-emanated or dag-kyi, which is to see yourself in the [[form of the deity]]. The [[ngöndro practice]] makes use of both [[forms]]. First, [[visualize]] [[Buddha]] [[Vajrasattva]] one arm’s length above your head, seated on a [[white lotus]] with one | |
+ | thousand petals. To be specific, the center of the [[lotus]] connects to the [[central channel]] via a {{Wiki|luminous}} stalk which runs through the top of the head. Your [[crown chakra]] is wide open and surrounded by a [[halo]] of {{Wiki|light}}. A white [[moon disc]] covers the pollen bed of the [[lotus]], upon which [[Vajrasattva]] sits in the [[vajra posture]]. [[Vajrasattva]] is {{Wiki|luminous}} and semi-transparent. His [[body]] is not solid but made of [[wisdom]], [[loving-kindness]] and [[compassion]]. He has one face, two | ||
+ | arms, two {{Wiki|legs}}, and is a rich [[white color]], shining like a mountain glacier {{Wiki|reflecting}} the {{Wiki|light}} of a thousand [[full moons]]. The very [[embodiment]] of [[compassion]] and [[wisdom]], he is actually no other than [[Guru Padmasambhava]] and the [[heart]] of all [[lineage masters]], appearing in this [[sambhogakaya]] [[form]]. [[Visualize]] [[Vajrasattva]] in union with his [[wisdom consort]], who is known as [[Dorje Nyema]] in [[Tibetan]] or [[Vajra]] Garvi in [[Sanskrit]]. In his right hand, he holds a [[vajra]] | ||
+ | vertically at the level of his [[heart center]]. His left hand is leaning on his hip and holding an upside-down [[bell]]. [[Dorje Nyema]] is the same {{Wiki|color}} as [[Vajrasattva]] and she also has one face, two arms, and two {{Wiki|legs}}. Both of them wear [[sambhogakaya]] ornamentation. Her right hand holds a [[curved knife]] and in her left is a [[skullcup]] filled with [[wisdom]] [[nectar]]. Her left arm embraces [[Vajrasattva]] around his neck. Both are in the [[primordial state]] of great blissfulness, radiating [[the light of wisdom]], [[compassion]], [[love]], and [[peace]] to [[beings]] in all [[directions]]. This [[bliss]] helps magnetize our [[power of concentration]] and deepens our [[feelings]] of [[devotion]] to the [[teacher]], the teachings, and all [[sentient beings]]. | ||
− | Begin by chanting these lines: | + | |
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+ | ===[[Begin by chanting these lines:]]=== | ||
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− | Above the crown of my head is Vajrasattva, Inseparable from the lama. From Vajrasattva’s body a nectar stream descends, Purifying my obscurations. | + | Above the {{Wiki|crown}} of my head is [[Vajrasattva]], [[Inseparable]] from the [[lama]]. From [[Vajrasattva’s]] [[body]] a [[nectar]] {{Wiki|stream}} descends, Purifying my [[obscurations]]. |
− | Recite this once and then begin to chant the Hundred Syllable mantra of Vajrasattva. Vajrasattva’s mantra is one of the longer ones. If you’re just | + | Recite this once and then begin to [[chant]] the Hundred [[Syllable mantra]] of [[Vajrasattva]]. [[Vajrasattva’s mantra]] is one of the longer ones. If you’re just |
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+ | beginning you might say it once, seven, or twenty-one times. If you have time, do a [[mala]], which is [[108]] [[mantras]]. Do even more if you can. | ||
+ | While reciting the [[mantra]], hold this [[visualization]]. In the [[heart center]] of [[Buddha]] [[Vajrasattva]], [[visualize]] a five-pointed {{Wiki|crystal}} [[dorje]] which stands upon a small [[moon disc]]. In the center [[sphere]] of the [[dorje]] there is a small [[HUM]] {{Wiki|syllable}}, white in {{Wiki|color}}, bright with [[wisdom]] {{Wiki|light}}. Again, the [[moon]], the [[dorje]] and | ||
− | + | the [[HUM]] are not solid [[objects]]. The upright [[vajra]] is surrounded by the letters of the one-hundred-syllable [[mantra]]. Each {{Wiki|syllable}} stands {{Wiki|independently}} and is self-resounding as the [[garland]] rotates around the edge of the [[moon disc]]. It’s good to [[visualize]] this, but if it proves too difficult, don’t {{Wiki|worry}} about it. Everything that is explained in the [[sadhana]] is there from the beginning, so with that [[understanding]], you can just go ahead and recite the [[mantra]]. | |
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+ | During this practice, do not be too concerned about details such as the precise size of the [[vajra]] or the exact number of petals in the [[lotus]]. Don’t get too [[intellectual]]. Put the analytical [[scholar]] business aside, and [[concentrate]] with [[devotion]] on the warm and [[loving]] presence of [[Vajrasattva]] and his [[consort]]. Practice [[feeling]] their [[blissful]] {{Wiki|immanence}}. That will take [[care]] of everything. | ||
− | + | While [[chanting]] and [[visualizing]] the self-reciting {{Wiki|syllables}} circling {{Wiki|clockwise}} around the [[moon-disc]], the [[mantra]] echoes from the hearts of both [[Vajrasattva]] and his [[consort]] [[Dorje Nyema]]. This [[initiates]] a blazing forth of [[love]] and [[wisdom]] [[energy]] which arises spontaneously out of their [[completeness]], as [[white light]] radiates from their [[bodies]] and descends through the [[halo]] around your [[crown chakra]] into the [[central channel]]. This starry [[nectar]] is not contained inside the | |
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− | + | [[central channel]]; your whole [[body]] becomes soaked in [[Vajrasattva’s]] [[wisdom]] {{Wiki|light}}. This {{Wiki|light}} completely purifies all of our [[obscurations]], [[obstacles]], {{Wiki|disease}}, and sicknesses. That’s why [[Vajrasattva]] is known as the [[purification]] [[buddha]]. This is very special. [[Meditate]] on the [[form]] of [[Vajrasattva]] and repeat the [[mantra]] as more and more of the {{Wiki|luminous}} [[nectar]] descends, filling your [[chakras]] and totally purifying all [[emotional]] and [[mental]] [[obscurations]] until eventually your whole [[body]] is saturated with the [[pure]] [[energy]] of [[wisdom]], [[love]] and [[compassion]]. This is the {{Wiki|light}} of [[Buddha]] [[Vajrasattva]]. Through the practice, you become similar to him. With this [[understanding]], continue to recite the [[mantra]] as much as you can. | |
+ | Recite it as much as you can and finally, [[imagine]] that both [[Vajrasattva]] and his [[consort]] [[smile]] your way and say joyfully, “O [[noble]] son or daughter, now you’ve completely [[purified]] your [[obscurations]].” Then they both dissolve into a small circle of [[white light]], which enters through your [[crown chakra]] and descends through the [[central channel]] until it reaches the [[heart center]]. At that [[moment]], you are [[transformed]] into the [[Buddha]] [[Vajrasattva]]. | ||
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+ | To assume the [[form]] of [[Vajrasattva]], you must have an [[understanding]] of the [[mandala]] of [[awakening]], which means [[seeing]] this entire [[universe]] as the display of the [[mandala]] of [[Buddha]] [[Vajrasattva]]. All [[form]] is [[recognized]] as the [[body emanation]] of [[indestructible]] [[Vajrasattva]]. All {{Wiki|vibrations}}, from the [[sound]] of the ocean to ambulance sirens, are the song of the [[indestructible]] [[hero]] communicating his message of true [[bodhicitta]]. The open, unobstructed [[nature of mind]] and [[space]] reveal the [[adamantine]] [[courage]] of the [[bodhisattvas]]. If we have a [[clear understanding]] of these three aspects of [[reality]], we can [[meditate]] with [[confidence]] for a few minutes and then recite one [[mala]] of the short [[mantra]] which consists of [[six syllables]]: | ||
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+ | ===[[OM VAJRA SATTVA HUNG]]=== | ||
− | |||
+ | If you cannot do all of this as elaborately as I have described, just try to [[relax]] without [[thinking]] and analyzing. Remember that everything is [[primordially pure]] and that it is all [[arising]] in the [[mandala]] of [[awakening]]. Be confident in that [[understanding]] as you [[concentrate]] on the practice. To analyze or indulge in [[intellectual]] [[activities]] during a session is a [[form]] of [[doubt]] and hesitation. Reverberating with negative qualities won’t leave you any [[energy]] for [[meditation]]. Just apply yourself courageously, with full [[confidence]] and [[devotion]]. This is the way to connect directly with the [[healing]], cleansing power of [[indestructible]] [[reality]]. | ||
− | Recite the six-syllable mantra for as long as you have time, then chant: | + | |
+ | ===[[Recite the six-syllable mantra for as long as you have time, then chant:]]=== | ||
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− | Vajrasattva melts into light And becomes mingled in one taste With one’s own perceptions. | + | [[Vajrasattva]] melts into {{Wiki|light}} And becomes mingled in one {{Wiki|taste}} With one’s [[own]] [[perceptions]]. |
− | Finally then, Vajrasattva is dissolved. This means we’re returning to the basic ground of mind and recognizing that everything is a reflection of the primordial source. The phrase, | + | Finally then, [[Vajrasattva]] is dissolved. This means we’re returning to the basic [[ground of mind]] and [[recognizing]] that everything is a {{Wiki|reflection}} of the [[primordial]] source. The [[phrase]], “[[pure]] from the beginning, free from all extremes and complexities,” describes the [[true nature of mind]]. Everything arises as |
− | a relative transformation of that pure, absolute condition. So when we dissolve the deity, it is like returning back to the original state which is all- | + | a [[relative]] [[transformation]] of that [[pure]], [[absolute]] [[condition]]. So when we dissolve the [[deity]], it is like returning back to the original [[state]] which is all- |
− | pervading. Here there are no longer any divisions into times, directions, outer and inner. There is no partiality in the heart of perfect wisdom. | + | pervading. Here there are no longer any divisions into times, [[directions]], outer and inner. There is no partiality in the [[heart of perfect wisdom]]. |
− | Dissolution in the primordial nature represents a more serious step forward on the profound path of indestructible heroism. It is free of all dualisms such as birth and death or existence and non-existence. All limitations are transcended in the innate condition as we practice merging back into that nature, | + | Dissolution in the [[primordial nature]] represents a more serious step forward on the [[profound path]] of [[indestructible]] {{Wiki|heroism}}. It is free of all [[dualisms]] such as [[birth]] and [[death]] or [[existence]] and [[non-existence]]. All limitations are transcended in the innate [[condition]] as we practice merging back into that [[nature]], |
− | relaxing into it. This is known as practicing on the absolute Vajrasattva. Relax your mind and meditate this openness for as long as you have time. If thoughts come up, don’t pursue them; just let them go without suppressing or grasping them. That is known as the great Dzogchen meditation. | + | relaxing into it. This is known as practicing on the [[absolute]] [[Vajrasattva]]. [[Relax]] your [[mind]] and [[meditate]] this [[openness]] for as long as you have time. If [[thoughts]] come up, don’t pursue them; just let them go without suppressing or [[grasping]] them. That is known as the great [[Dzogchen meditation]]. |
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− | The fifth section of the ngöndro is called the lamai naljor [blamai ‘byor] in Tibetan or Guru Yoga in Sanskrit. Guru and lama express the same meaning in these two languages. Two roots comprise this term: one means full, heavy or rich. The other means “higher one” or | + | The fifth section of the [[ngöndro]] is called the lamai [[naljor]] [blamai ‘byor] in [[Tibetan]] or [[Guru Yoga]] in [[Sanskrit]]. [[Guru]] and [[lama]] express the same meaning in these two [[languages]]. Two [[roots]] comprise this term: one means full, heavy or rich. The other means “higher one” or “[[extraordinary]] one,” which refers to a [[teacher]] who [[embodies]] the [[highest realization]] of [[love]], [[compassion]], and [[wisdom]] through [[awareness]] of the [[true nature]]. One who is wealthy in [[love]] and [[compassion]], and heavy with [[wisdom]]. In other |
− | words, having awakened to the fullness and power of the bodhicitta realization, he or she has become extraordinary. | + | words, having [[awakened]] to the fullness and power of the [[bodhicitta]] [[realization]], he or she has become [[extraordinary]]. |
− | According to the Buddha, the teacher must possess two qualities: first, this individual must have a good understanding of the entire Dharma, from the sutra, vinaya and abhidharma levels, up through the tantrayana, plus a working knowledge of all phenomena on the relative levels. The second quality refers | + | According to the [[Buddha]], the [[teacher]] must possess two qualities: first, this {{Wiki|individual}} must have a good [[understanding]] of the entire [[Dharma]], from the [[sutra]], [[vinaya]] and [[abhidharma]] levels, up through the [[tantrayana]], plus a working [[knowledge]] of all [[phenomena]] on the [[relative]] levels. The second [[quality]] refers |
− | to an understanding of the true nature, and at least some degree of realization of bodhicitta. This is the central message expressed throughout the Buddhadharma. Whether it is stated directly or indirectly, the final goal is reached by awakening to the ultimate meaning of bodhicitta. That’s the bottom line of every teaching, from the Hinayana up through the Vajrayana and Dzogchen. All are designed to awaken us to the absolute bodhicitta, which is also known as the Buddha nature, tathagatagarbha, and buddha-seed. To be a qualified lama or teacher, one must have a fair measure of these two qualities or at best, a complete realization, in which case you would expect a super lama! | + | to an [[understanding]] of the [[true nature]], and at least some [[degree]] of [[realization]] of [[bodhicitta]]. This is the central message expressed throughout the [[Buddhadharma]]. Whether it is stated directly or indirectly, the final goal is reached by [[awakening]] to the [[Wikipedia:Absolute (philosophy)|ultimate]] meaning of [[bodhicitta]]. That’s the bottom line of every [[teaching]], from the [[Hinayana]] up through the [[Vajrayana]] and [[Dzogchen]]. All are designed to [[awaken]] us to the [[absolute bodhicitta]], which is also known as the [[Buddha nature]], [[tathagatagarbha]], and buddha-seed. To be a qualified [[lama]] or [[teacher]], one must have a fair measure of these two qualities or at best, a complete [[realization]], in which case you would expect a super [[lama]]! |
− | The Buddha taught that right relationship with the teacher or lama is really important, for he is the one who connects you to all Buddha’s teachings. He opens the door of the Dharma so you can enter the path of enlightenment. The lama is considered particularly important in the Vajrayana tradition. This is | + | The [[Buddha]] [[taught]] that right relationship with the [[teacher]] or [[lama]] is really important, for he is the one who connects you to all [[Buddha’s teachings]]. He opens the door of the [[Dharma]] so you can enter the [[path of enlightenment]]. The [[lama]] is considered particularly important in the [[Vajrayana tradition]]. This is |
− | expressed through the descriptions of the Three Roots or objects of refuge wherein the guru or lama is known as the | + | expressed through the descriptions of the [[Three Roots]] or [[objects]] of [[refuge]] wherein the [[guru]] or [[lama]] is known as the “[[root]] of [[blessings]].” The entire process of [[realization]] depends on his or her influence. Without the [[guru]] the [[lineage]] teachings would not be preserved and transmitted in a fluid, unbroken continuity. If there’s no [[lama]], the [[teaching]] situation does not arise. This is why it’s said that the [[lama]] is so important. In the [[inner tantra]], it is |
− | stated that the lama is the Buddha, the lama is the Dharma and the lama is the Sangha. He’s considered lord of the entire Vajrayana family. | + | stated that the [[lama]] is the [[Buddha]], the [[lama]] is the [[Dharma]] and the [[lama]] is the [[Sangha]]. He’s considered lord of the entire [[Vajrayana]] [[family]]. |
− | In the process of opening to the truth of the teachings, the lama is invaluable. He puts you into direct contact with the body, speech and mind of the Buddha. Even though there are books, written words alone will not rouse your enlightened nature. Only a master can clarify the true meaning and reveal the transcendent essence of the printed word. A truly qualified teacher has knowledge of many liberating techniques and transmits these with the warmth of the lineage blessings. | + | In the process of opening to the [[truth]] of the teachings, the [[lama]] is invaluable. He puts you into direct [[contact]] with the [[body, speech and mind]] of the [[Buddha]]. Even though there are [[books]], written words alone will not rouse your [[enlightened nature]]. Only a [[master]] can clarify the true meaning and reveal the [[transcendent]] [[essence]] of the printed [[word]]. A truly [[qualified teacher]] has [[knowledge]] of many liberating [[techniques]] and transmits these with the warmth of the [[lineage]] [[blessings]]. |
− | The works of the great masters of ancient India and Tibet express the highest regard for the teacher. They’re not just trying to glorify individual beings; they are illuminating a principle. On the basis of personal experience and realization, they are openly acknowledging, for our sakes, that the lama is the only true access to the lineage teachings. Since the times of the Buddha Shakyamuni, those individuals who attain to the highest realization have done so through devotion to a true teacher. | + | The works of the great [[masters]] of {{Wiki|ancient India}} and [[Tibet]] express the [[highest]] regard for the [[teacher]]. They’re not just trying to glorify {{Wiki|individual}} [[beings]]; they are [[illuminating]] a [[principle]]. On the basis of personal [[experience]] and [[realization]], they are openly [[acknowledging]], for our sakes, that the [[lama]] is the only true access to the [[lineage]] teachings. Since the times of the [[Buddha Shakyamuni]], those {{Wiki|individuals}} who attain to the [[highest realization]] have done so through [[devotion]] to a [[true teacher]]. |
− | Even if you are a great scholar with knowledge of all of the teachings, if you don’t practice under the auspices of a qualified lineage master, you won’t gain enlightenment. All the schools tell stories of great students who have not yet discovered their Buddha nature because they lack a connection with a qualified guide. Philosophical knowledge alone will not enlighten. | + | Even if you are a great [[scholar]] with [[knowledge]] of all of the teachings, if you don’t practice under the {{Wiki|auspices}} of a qualified [[lineage master]], you won’t gain [[enlightenment]]. All the schools tell stories of great students who have not yet discovered their [[Buddha nature]] because they lack a [[connection]] with a qualified guide. [[Philosophical knowledge]] alone will not [[enlighten]]. |
− | In India, the famous Dzogchen master, Manjushrimitra was originally a teacher at Nalanda University. Academically he was one of the most intellectually developed scholars of his time. But to awaken the pristine awareness of primordial wisdom, he had to link up with a qualified master. He had become blocked at the threshold of awakening and couldn’t go on. Manjushri appeared and told him, “If you want to gain | + | In [[India]], the famous [[Dzogchen master]], [[Manjushrimitra]] was originally a [[teacher]] at [[Nalanda University]]. Academically he was one of the most intellectually developed [[scholars]] of his time. But to [[awaken]] the [[pristine awareness]] of [[primordial wisdom]], he had to link up with a qualified [[master]]. He had become blocked at the threshold of [[awakening]] and couldn’t go on. [[Manjushri]] appeared and told him, “If you want to gain |
− | enlightenment in this lifetime, go see the young Dzogchen master Garab Dorje.” Manjushrimitra received Garab Dorje’s teachings and thereby became enlightened. | + | [[enlightenment]] in this [[lifetime]], go see the young [[Dzogchen master]] [[Garab Dorje]].” [[Manjushrimitra]] received [[Garab Dorje’s]] teachings and thereby became [[enlightened]]. |
− | Manjushrimitra’s foremost student was Shri Singha, another highly developed scholar who had to meet a qualified master in order to attain full realization. Shri Singha was told by Avalokitesvara, “If you want to be enlightened within this lifetime, you must contact the master Manjushrimitra.” So he went and met Manjushrimitra and received the final instructions which instantly sparked his full awakening to the Dzogchen state. | + | Manjushrimitra’s foremost [[student]] was [[Shri Singha]], another highly developed [[scholar]] who had to meet a qualified [[master]] in order to attain full [[realization]]. [[Shri Singha]] was told by [[Avalokitesvara]], “If you want to be [[enlightened]] within this [[lifetime]], you must [[contact]] the [[master]] [[Manjushrimitra]].” So he went and met [[Manjushrimitra]] and received the final instructions which instantly sparked his [[full awakening]] to the [[Dzogchen state]]. |
− | Naropa was a great Indian scholar who served as the northern gatekeeper at the monastic university of Vikramashila. However, to come to final realization he had to meet his guru. Instructed by a wisdom dakini, Naropa left the monastery and after considerable hardship, finally found Tilopa. At first Tilopa ignored him, and even seemed to torture him by putting him through twelve difficult and sixteen smaller ordeals before he was finally given the teachings. Most great practitioners do not connect with their gurus for scholarly knowledge. They may even be more educated or widely renowned than their masters. This was the case with Naropa. It required the blessing of Tilopa, however, to bring him to full realization. This is the value in contacting a truly qualified lineage teacher. | + | [[Naropa]] was a great [[Indian scholar]] who served as the northern [[gatekeeper]] at the [[monastic university]] of [[Vikramashila]]. However, to come to final [[realization]] he had to meet his [[guru]]. Instructed by a [[wisdom dakini]], [[Naropa]] left the [[monastery]] and after considerable hardship, finally found [[Tilopa]]. At first [[Tilopa]] |
+ | |||
+ | ignored him, and even seemed to torture him by putting him through twelve difficult and sixteen smaller ordeals before he was finally given the teachings. Most great practitioners do not connect with their [[gurus]] for [[scholarly]] [[knowledge]]. They may even be more educated or widely renowned than their [[masters]]. This was the case with [[Naropa]]. It required the [[blessing]] of [[Tilopa]], however, to bring him to full [[realization]]. This is the value in contacting a truly qualified [[lineage teacher]]. | ||
− | Having the good fortune to encounter and recognize this situation, a student should devote himself to the teacher and the teachings with complete trust and confidence. As their minds merge, the devotee comes to the same realization as the teacher, sparkling with the wisdom of all the lineage masters. This is how the teachings have been transmitted right up to the present. And that’s a brief overview of the importance of the lama. | + | Having the [[good fortune]] to encounter and [[recognize]] this situation, a [[student]] should devote himself to the [[teacher]] and the teachings with complete [[trust]] and [[confidence]]. As their [[minds]] merge, the [[devotee]] comes to the same [[realization]] as the [[teacher]], sparkling with the [[wisdom]] of all the [[lineage masters]]. This is how the teachings have been transmitted right up to the {{Wiki|present}}. And that’s a brief overview of the importance of the [[lama]]. |
− | In practicing guru yoga we focus on Guru Padmasambhava, the true embodiment of all of buddhas and bodhisattvas. There have been buddhas in the past and there will be others in the future, but the Buddha of the present is Guru Padmasambhava. To begin the practice, visualize yourself as Vajrayogini and chant these verses: | + | In practicing [[guru yoga]] we focus on [[Guru Padmasambhava]], the true [[embodiment]] of all of [[buddhas]] and [[bodhisattvas]]. There have been [[buddhas]] in the {{Wiki|past}} and there will be others in the {{Wiki|future}}, but the [[Buddha of the present]] is [[Guru Padmasambhava]]. To begin the practice, [[visualize]] yourself as [[Vajrayogini]] and [[chant]] these verses: |
− | ===RANG NYID DORJE NALJOR DUN KHA RU TSAWAI LAMA PEME KUR ZHENG GYUR=== | + | ===[[RANG NYID DORJE NALJOR DUN KHA RU TSAWAI LAMA PEME KUR ZHENG GYUR]]=== |
− | Oneself is Vajrayogini and in the sky in front, the root teacher manifests in the form of Padmasambhava. | + | Oneself is [[Vajrayogini]] and in the sky in front, the [[root teacher]] [[manifests]] in the [[form]] of [[Padmasambhava]]. |
− | Vajrayogini is a wisdom dakini, a totally enlightened being, a female Buddha. Why do we visualize ourselves as Vajrayogini? According to the Vajrayana, Vajrayogini represents the profound wisdom or clarity of the true nature which is Prajnaparamita, Samantabhadri, the basic ground or reality of all phenomena. Our absolute condition is reflected in her form. She is known as the Mother of all Buddhas. Enlightenment comes about by knowing our true nature and merging with wisdom. This union will transform ignorance and dispel all darkness. Presently, we have thick mental and emotional obscurations which keep this from happening. | + | [[Vajrayogini]] is a [[wisdom dakini]], a totally [[enlightened being]], a [[female Buddha]]. Why do we [[visualize]] ourselves as [[Vajrayogini]]? According to the [[Vajrayana]], [[Vajrayogini]] represents the [[profound wisdom]] or clarity of the [[true nature]] which is [[Prajnaparamita]], [[Samantabhadri]], the basic ground or [[reality]] of all [[phenomena]]. Our [[absolute]] [[condition]] is reflected in her [[form]]. She is known as the [[Mother of all Buddhas]]. [[Enlightenment]] comes about by [[knowing]] our [[true nature]] and merging with [[wisdom]]. This union will [[transform]] [[ignorance]] and dispel all {{Wiki|darkness}}. Presently, we have thick [[mental]] and [[emotional obscurations]] which keep this from happening. |
− | The conception and birth of a buddha child requires that there be a mother, so we invoke the primordial power of our absolute nature through the great mother of transcendent wisdom, Buddha Vajrayogini. She is visualized with one face, two arms | + | The {{Wiki|conception}} and [[birth]] of a [[buddha]] child requires that there be a mother, so we invoke the [[primordial power]] of our [[absolute nature]] through the great mother of [[transcendent wisdom]], [[Buddha Vajrayogini]]. She is [[visualized]] with one face, two arms |
− | and two legs. Her body color is ruby red, she is naked and semi-wrathful with bone ornaments and a third eye in her forehead. Her right hand holds a curved knife and her left holds a skull cup. A three-pointed katvanga, symbolizing the power of the three wisdoms, lies across her left shoulder. She gazes slightly upward at the guru and wears a necklace of fifty-one skulls. Like Vajrasattva and all the other tantric deities, Vajrayogini is not a substantially existent form but appears in a transcendental body of rainbow-wisdom light standing upon a lotus base surmounted by sun and moon discs. She is leaning to her left, as if about to walk. She tramples a demon under each foot. A halo of wisdom fire surrounds her body while the sun and moon shine in the sky above. This is how we should visualize ourselves. | + | and two {{Wiki|legs}}. Her [[body]] {{Wiki|color}} is {{Wiki|ruby}} [[red]], she is naked and [[semi-wrathful]] with [[bone ornaments]] and a [[third eye]] in her {{Wiki|forehead}}. Her right hand holds a [[curved knife]] and her left holds a [[skull cup]]. A three-pointed [[katvanga]], [[symbolizing]] the power of the [[three wisdoms]], lies across her left shoulder. She gazes slightly upward at the [[guru]] and wears a necklace of fifty-one skulls. Like [[Vajrasattva]] and all the other [[tantric deities]], [[Vajrayogini]] is not a substantially [[existent]] [[form]] but appears in a [[transcendental body]] of rainbow-wisdom {{Wiki|light}} [[standing]] upon a [[lotus]] base surmounted by {{Wiki|sun}} and [[moon]] discs. She is leaning to her left, as if about to walk. She tramples a {{Wiki|demon}} under each foot. A [[halo]] of [[wisdom fire]] surrounds her [[body]] while the {{Wiki|sun}} and [[moon]] shine in the sky above. This is how we should [[visualize]] ourselves. |
− | In the space before us we see Guru Padmasambhava as the root teacher, the embodiment of all buddhas, the dharma, the sangha, all gurus, devas and dakinis. He represents all enlightened masters and possesses all the skillful means which lead to perfect realization of our true nature. Having visualized yourself as | + | In the [[space]] before us we see [[Guru Padmasambhava]] as the [[root teacher]], the [[embodiment]] of all [[buddhas]], the [[dharma]], the [[sangha]], all [[gurus]], [[devas]] and [[dakinis]]. He represents all [[enlightened]] [[masters]] and possesses all the [[skillful means]] which lead to {{Wiki|perfect}} [[realization]] of our [[true nature]]. Having [[visualized]] yourself as “[[wisdom]]’, [[Guru Padmasambhava]] is “[[skillful means]].” You’re going to merge these two in order to [[awaken]] your [[Buddha nature]]. |
− | Guru Yoga is the most important practice in the Vajrayana path. The Four Reversals we recite at the beginning of ngondro invoke the blessings of Guru Padmasambhava and develop into Guru Yoga. The essence of ngondro is Guru Yoga, although this practice is not limited to the ngondro. Guru Padmasambhava is known as the Buddha of the Degenerate Era. As the degeneration proceeds, if we invoke his blessings and meditate on Guru Padmasambhava, obstacles can be removed very easily and we will have a realization that can benefit other sentient beings. Therefore, it is very important to do this practice. Always | + | [[Guru Yoga]] is the most important practice in the [[Vajrayana path]]. The Four Reversals we recite at the beginning of [[ngondro]] invoke the [[blessings]] of [[Guru Padmasambhava]] and develop into [[Guru Yoga]]. The [[essence]] of [[ngondro]] is [[Guru Yoga]], although this practice is not limited to the [[ngondro]]. [[Guru Padmasambhava]] is known as the [[Buddha]] of the Degenerate {{Wiki|Era}}. As the {{Wiki|degeneration}} proceeds, if we invoke his [[blessings]] and [[meditate]] on [[Guru Padmasambhava]], [[obstacles]] can be removed very easily and we will have a [[realization]] that can [[benefit]] other [[sentient beings]]. Therefore, it is very important to do this practice. Always |
− | mingle your mind with the mind of Guru Padmasambhava. Invoke your Buddha Nature in absolute union with Guru Rinpoche all the time. | + | mingle your [[mind]] with the [[mind]] of [[Guru Padmasambhava]]. Invoke your [[Buddha Nature]] in [[absolute]] union with [[Guru Rinpoche]] all the time. |
− | The Nyingma are not the only ones who practice on Padmasambhava. He is the Buddha or Guru for all schools of Tibetan Buddhism, such as the Sakya, Kagyu and Gelugpa. If we read the books, the biographies and lives of the great masters of the different lineages, there is hardly anyone who didn't receive teachings and blessings from Guru Padmasambhava in their visions, dreams or in the state of direct perception. Nearly every one was blessed by him, and thereby came to realization. | + | The [[Nyingma]] are not the only ones who practice on [[Padmasambhava]]. He is the [[Buddha]] or [[Guru]] for all [[schools of Tibetan Buddhism]], such as the [[Sakya]], [[Kagyu]] and [[Gelugpa]]. If we read the [[books]], the {{Wiki|biographies}} and [[lives]] of the great [[masters]] of the different [[lineages]], there is hardly anyone who didn't receive teachings and [[blessings]] from [[Guru Padmasambhava]] in their [[visions]], [[dreams]] or in the [[state]] of direct [[perception]]. Nearly every one was blessed by him, and thereby came to [[realization]]. |
− | In Tibetan Buddhist history, Guru Padmasambhava is the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. He established the first schools of Vajrayana Buddhism in Tibet and blessed every part of the land. It is said in the teachings that there is not even one square inch of ground that was not blessed by Guru Padmasambhava. With the assistance of Wisdom Dakini Yeshe Tshogyal, he hid termas, lineage teachings and ritual objects throughout Tibet, in rocky mountains, in lakes, rivers, trees, in the sky, and many other places. He gave many prophecies and explained how to use the termas to benefit all sentient beings from generation to generation until now. | + | In [[Tibetan Buddhist]] history, [[Guru Padmasambhava]] is the founder of [[Tibetan Buddhism]]. He established the first schools of [[Vajrayana Buddhism]] [[in Tibet]] and blessed every part of the land. It is said in the teachings that there is not even one square inch of ground that was not blessed by [[Guru Padmasambhava]]. With the assistance of [[Wisdom Dakini]] [[Yeshe Tshogyal]], he hid [[termas]], [[lineage]] teachings and [[ritual objects]] throughout [[Tibet]], in rocky [[mountains]], in lakes, [[rivers]], [[trees]], in the sky, and many other places. He gave many {{Wiki|prophecies}} and explained how to use the [[termas]] to [[benefit]] all [[sentient beings]] from generation to generation until now. |
− | Guru Padmasambhava is not only for Tibetans. He worked for all sentient beings. For example, among the eight emanations of Guru Padmasambhava, only two occur in Tibet. The rest happen in different parts of the world. He has always been blessing practitioners throughout all of history. As Guru Padmasambhava himself said, "Those who pray with confidence, concentration and bodhicitta are always heard by me." | + | [[Guru Padmasambhava]] is not only for [[Tibetans]]. He worked for all [[sentient beings]]. For example, among the eight [[emanations]] of [[Guru Padmasambhava]], only two occur [[in Tibet]]. The rest happen in different parts of the [[world]]. He has always been [[blessing]] practitioners throughout all of history. As [[Guru Padmasambhava]] himself said, "Those who pray with [[confidence]], [[concentration]] and [[bodhicitta]] are always heard by me." |
− | There are many important reasons to practice on Guru Rinpoche; for the purpose of overcoming degeneration, for the removal of one's own obscurations, as well as to help sentient beings and to bring peace and harmony to the world. Therefore, practicing Guru Yoga is important. | + | There are many important [[reasons]] to practice on [[Guru Rinpoche]]; for the {{Wiki|purpose}} of [[overcoming]] {{Wiki|degeneration}}, for the removal of one's [[own]] [[obscurations]], as well as to help [[sentient beings]] and to bring [[peace]] and [[harmony]] to the [[world]]. Therefore, practicing [[Guru Yoga]] is important. |
− | Guru Padmasambhava is visualized with one face, two arms and two legs, seated in the posture of royal ease upon a sun and moon disk. His right hand holds a five pointed vajra while the left makes the equanimity mudra near his navel center. In the palm of his left hand, he holds a skull cup filled with long-life nectar and a small vase filled with blissful amrita. Wisdom light radiates from these objects. Like Vajrayogini, a trident staff or katvanga leans across his left shoulder. Guru Padmasambhava appears in a wisdom body, brilliant with the energy of love and compassion. Wisdom lights radiate in all directions. Feel a very strong sense of presence and closeness between yourself and Guru Padmasambhava. In that disposition, see the entire universe as the mandala of the guru. Recognize that everything is a display of Guru Padmasambhava. | + | [[Guru Padmasambhava]] is [[visualized]] with one face, two arms and two {{Wiki|legs}}, seated in the [[posture]] of {{Wiki|royal}} ease upon a {{Wiki|sun}} and [[moon disk]]. His right hand holds a five pointed [[vajra]] while the left makes the [[equanimity]] [[mudra]] near his [[navel center]]. In the palm of his left hand, he holds a [[skull cup]] filled with long-life [[nectar]] and a small [[vase]] filled with [[blissful]] [[amrita]]. [[Wisdom]] {{Wiki|light}} radiates from these [[objects]]. Like [[Vajrayogini]], a [[trident]] [[staff]] or [[katvanga]] leans across his left shoulder. [[Guru Padmasambhava]] appears in a [[wisdom body]], brilliant with the [[energy]] of [[love]] and [[compassion]]. [[Wisdom]] lights radiate in all [[directions]]. [[Feel]] a very strong [[sense]] of presence and closeness between yourself and [[Guru Padmasambhava]]. In that disposition, see the entire [[universe]] as the [[mandala]] of the [[guru]]. [[Recognize]] that everything is a display of [[Guru Padmasambhava]]. |
− | Now, full of confidence, devotion, closeness, warmth and presence, chant the following prayer three times: | + | Now, full of [[confidence]], [[devotion]], closeness, warmth and presence, [[chant]] the following [[prayer]] three times: |
− | DU SUM SANGYE MA LU DU PAI KU TSAWAI LAMA CHOG LA SOL WA DEB DI CHI BARDO SUM DU THUG JE ZUNG DU SUM GYUN CHED MED PAR CHIN GYI LOB | + | DU SUM SANGYE MA LU DU PAI KU TSAWAI LAMA CHOG LA SOL WA DEB DI CHI [[BARDO]] SUM DU THUG JE ZUNG DU SUM GYUN CHED MED PAR CHIN GYI LOB |
− | The embodiment of all the Buddhas of the three times, without exception. Most excellent root teacher, I pray to you. In this and future lives, and in the bardo, in these three, | + | The [[embodiment]] of all the [[Buddhas of the three times]], without exception. Most {{Wiki|excellent}} [[root teacher]], I pray to you. In this and {{Wiki|future}} [[lives]], and in the [[bardo]], in these three, |
− | Hold me with your compassion Bless me ceaselessly throughout the three times! | + | Hold me with your [[compassion]] Bless me ceaselessly throughout the three times! |
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− | ===OM AH HUNG VAJRA GURU PEMA SIDDHI HUNG=== | + | ===[[OM AH HUNG VAJRA GURU PEMA SIDDHI HUNG]]=== |
− | Do this for as long as you have time, all the while concentrating on Guru Padmasambhava and continuing to visualize yourself as Vajrayogini. At times focus on devotional feelings and opening your heart to the presence of the lama. At other times, generate an appreciative awareness of how precious this relationship is. Shift your concentration to various aspects and feel the resonances of this bond while continuing to recite the prayers. | + | Do this for as long as you have time, all the while {{Wiki|concentrating}} on [[Guru Padmasambhava]] and continuing to [[visualize]] yourself as [[Vajrayogini]]. At times focus on devotional [[feelings]] and opening your [[heart]] to the presence of the [[lama]]. At other times, generate an appreciative [[awareness]] of how [[precious]] this relationship is. Shift your [[concentration]] to various aspects and [[feel]] the resonances of this bond while continuing to recite the [[prayers]]. |
− | Then begin reciting the Vajra Guru Mantra as many times as you can. Don’t skip or add any syllables to it and chant it to a beautiful tune. Try to recite at least one mala of this mantra per session. When you are done, chant the following lines: | + | Then begin reciting the [[Vajra Guru Mantra]] as many times as you can. Don’t skip or add any {{Wiki|syllables}} to it and [[chant]] it to a beautiful tune. Try to recite at least one [[mala]] of this [[mantra]] per session. When you are done, [[chant]] the following lines: |
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− | The blessings and empowerments of body, speech, and mind Are completely and perfectly obtained. | + | The [[blessings]] and [[empowerments]] of [[body]], {{Wiki|speech}}, and [[mind]] Are completely and perfectly obtained. |
− | While chanting this, visualize three radiant syllables in Guru Padmasambhava’s three places; a white OM at his forehead, a red AH in his speech center, and a blue HUM at his heart. If you find these difficult to visualize, simply imagine white, red and blue lights glowing in those three places. Near the end of the mantra recitation, a small circle of white light flies out like a shooting star from Guru Padmasambhava’s forehead and enters directly into your own, transferring all the body blessings of Guru Padmasambhava and removing your physical obscurations. This light actualizes the nirmanakaya. | + | While [[chanting]] this, [[visualize]] three radiant {{Wiki|syllables}} in [[Guru Padmasambhava’s]] three places; a white [[OM]] at his {{Wiki|forehead}}, a [[red]] [[AH]] in his {{Wiki|speech}} center, and a blue [[HUM]] at his [[heart]]. If you find these difficult to [[visualize]], simply [[imagine]] white, [[red]] and blue lights glowing in those three places. Near the end of the [[mantra recitation]], a small circle of [[white light]] flies out like a shooting [[star]] from [[Guru Padmasambhava’s]] {{Wiki|forehead}} and enters directly into your [[own]], transferring all the [[body]] [[blessings]] of [[Guru Padmasambhava]] and removing your [[physical]] [[obscurations]]. This {{Wiki|light}} actualizes the [[nirmanakaya]]. |
− | From the red syllable AH at Guru Padmasambhava’s throat, a point of red light emanates and enters your speech center, removing all obscurations associated with speech and actualizing the sambhogakaya. A strong blue light emanates from the syllable HUM at the heart of Guru Padmasambhava, penetrating your heart | + | From the [[red]] {{Wiki|syllable}} [[AH]] at [[Guru Padmasambhava’s]] {{Wiki|throat}}, a point of [[red light]] [[emanates]] and enters your {{Wiki|speech}} center, removing all [[obscurations]] associated with {{Wiki|speech}} and actualizing the [[sambhogakaya]]. A strong blue {{Wiki|light}} [[emanates]] from the {{Wiki|syllable}} [[HUM]] at the [[heart]] of [[Guru Padmasambhava]], penetrating your [[heart center]], transferring the [[blessings]] of his [[wisdom mind]]. This removes your [[mental]] [[obscurations]] and actualizes the [[dharmakaya]] of [[Buddhahood]]. Finally, lights radiate out from [[Guru Padmasambhava’s]] {{Wiki|forehead}}, {{Wiki|throat}} and [[heart]]. Simultaneously, the lights enter your three centers, transferring the complete [[blessings]] of his [[realization]], purifying all residual [[habits]]. This fourth {{Wiki|radiation}} actualizes full [[realization]] of [[Buddhahood]], which is also known as the [[svabhavikakaya]]. Finally, the [[guru]] dissolves into {{Wiki|light}}. These phases are a condensed version of the [[four empowerments]]. |
− | |||
+ | When you receive the [[blessings]] of [[Guru Padmasambhava]], do not expect that he will appear in this colorful costume with a [[trident]], holding a [[skull cup]] and [[dorje]] and wearing a special hat. But if you practice focusing your [[love]] and [[devotion]] in this way, you will definitely [[experience]] clarity, a sky-like | ||
− | + | [[awareness]] and a [[calm]], [[joyful]] [[mind]]. That is the {{Wiki|light}} of [[Guru Padmasambhava]], the first stage of his [[blessing]]. Then you can develop higher and higher and really remove [[obscurations]] and [[obstacles]]. You may even have [[experiences]] in [[visions]], [[dreams]] or the waking [[state]]. But don’t expect that he will appear anything like he does in [[thangkas]]. To help [[sentient beings]], [[Guru Rinpoche]] works through many differnt [[forms]] and mediums. | |
− | |||
+ | As the [[guru]] dissolves into lights which are absorbed into your three places, [[chant]] these words: | ||
− | |||
+ | ===[[VAJRA GURU KAYA WAKA TSITTA SIDDHI HUM]]=== | ||
− | |||
+ | [[Kaya]] means [[body]], waka means {{Wiki|speech}}, tsitta means [[mind]], and [[siddhi]] in this case, means completed. This means that all [[spiritual]] accomplishments are complete. | ||
− | |||
+ | ===[[LAMA OD ZHU RANG THIM YER MED NGANG RIG TONG DON GYI LAMAI RANG ZHAL TA]]=== | ||
− | |||
+ | The [[teacher]] dissolves into {{Wiki|light}}, is absorbed into oneself, And becomes [[inseparable]] with one’s [[own]] [[state of being]]. Behold the emptiness-awareness, the true face of the [[lama]]! | ||
− | + | [[Guru Padmasambhava]] dissolves into multi-colored points of {{Wiki|light}} about the size of peas, which shower out of his [[crown chakra]] into yours and descend through your [[central channel]], {{Wiki|concentrating}} in your [[heart center]]. This [[symbolizes]] the union of [[skillful means]] and [[wisdom]], which have completely united. You are now | |
− | Guru Padmasambhava | + | in the domain of [[absolute truth]], the unconditional, [[ultimate reality]] of the [[guru]]. From this viewpoint, there is no difference between [[Guru Padmasambhava]] and [[Vajrayogini]] or [[subject]] and [[object]]. Everything is merged into the [[singularity]] of true [[awareness]] or [[rigpa]]. To let your [[mind]] [[relax]] in that [[state]] is known as “beholding the emptiness-awareness, the true face of the [[lama]],” which is the union of [[skillful means]] and [[wisdom]], the merging of [[guru]], [[dakini]], and [[deity]] with one’s [[own]] [[non-conceptual awareness]]. |
− | |||
+ | The [[guru]] [[embodies]] [[skillful means]], the [[dakini]] is [[wisdom]] and the [[yidam]] is their union. In one session of [[guru yoga]], you can attain union with all [[Three Roots]]. Absorbing the [[guru]] into oneself, remain in [[meditation]] as long as you have time. This is the [[highest]] [[form]] of [[meditation]] and is no different than what is practiced in the [[Dzogchen]] or [[Mahamudra traditions]]. [[Relax]] into this [[absolute state]] without succumbing to [[mental activities]]. To maintain ourselves in the [[pure]] and simple [[state]] of our [[true nature]] is the [[highest]] [[form]] of [[meditation]] and practice. | ||
− | |||
+ | Continute to [[meditate]] in this way for as long as you can. At the end of the session, when everything arises, hold the [[vision]] and observe [[phenomena]] from the [[primordial state]]; see all things as they are, [[including]] your [[body]] and [[Wikipedia:Identity (social science)|identity]], as transient [[forms]] of reflected {{Wiki|light}} or as the flow of surface waves and tides on the ocean. Observe without [[grasping]] or holding on to any of it, let things arise, and let them go. Don’t block the {{Wiki|movement}} of the [[true nature]]. Learn to perform all your [[activities]] within this [[awareness]]. Even if you have a high [[realization]], always [[respect]] and appreciate the patterns of [[phenomenal existence]]. | ||
− | |||
+ | Begin the [[ngondro]] practices focusing on [[Guru Yoga]]. Start by [[taking refuge]] and generating [[bodhicitta]] briefly, then go to the [[Guru Yoga]] and practice it as I said. If you are somehow very busy and don't have enough time, then just do the [[Seven Line Prayer]] three or seven times, recite the [[mantra]] of [[Guru Padmasambhava]] and receive [[blessings]] before [[meditating]]. Always practice with [[concentration]] and [[confidence]]. If we do that, there is no need to [[doubt]] that we are going to achieve great results. | ||
− | |||
− | + | This completes a brief look at the practice of [[guru yoga]]. | |
− | This completes a brief look at the practice of guru yoga. | ||
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− | The sixth section of the ngöndro is the practice of phowa or the transference of consciousness after death. Briefly, we have a body, the power of speech, and the mind. In the common view, mind is the occupant and the body is the residence. On the deeper levels of Buddhist philosophy, the body and speech are both considered temporary residents of the mind. In either case, we’re leasing this home for a short time and the landlord is not very helpful. If anything breaks, you have to fix and pay for it yourself! One way or another, sooner or later, the body and the mind are going to have to separate. We are not going to stay like this forever. | + | The sixth section of the [[ngöndro]] is the [[practice of phowa]] or the [[transference of consciousness]] after [[death]]. Briefly, we have a [[body]], the power of {{Wiki|speech}}, and the [[mind]]. In the common view, [[mind]] is the occupant and the [[body]] is the residence. On the deeper levels of [[Buddhist philosophy]], the [[body]] and {{Wiki|speech}} are both considered temporary residents of the [[mind]]. In either case, we’re leasing this home for a short time and the landlord is not very helpful. If anything breaks, you have to fix and pay for it yourself! One way or another, sooner or later, the [[body]] and the [[mind]] are going to have to separate. We are not going to stay like this forever. |
− | Phowa or transference is relevant because of the inevitability of the body-mind separation. Buddha gave many different teachings on this pivotal transition. Before you leave home, you have to consider the manner of your departure. Should you rent a truck or carry the luggage on your back, as is done all over Asia? Will you go by bus or train, fly coach or hire the space shuttle? And where should you go? Phowa practice is designed to lead the mind to the pure land of the Buddha Amitabha. That’s where we | + | [[Phowa]] or [[transference]] is relevant because of the inevitability of the [[body-mind]] separation. [[Buddha]] gave many different teachings on this pivotal transition. Before you leave home, you have to consider the manner of your departure. Should you rent a truck or carry the luggage on your back, as is done all over {{Wiki|Asia}}? Will you go by bus or train, fly coach or hire the [[space]] shuttle? And where should you go? [[Phowa practice]] is designed to lead the [[mind]] to the [[pure land]] of the [[Buddha Amitabha]]. That’s where we |
− | plan on going. In Sanskrit this is known as | + | plan on going. In [[Sanskrit]] this is known as ‘[[Sukhavati]]’ or in [[Tibetan]] as ‘[[Dewachen]]’ which translates as great [[bliss]]. [[Buddha Shakyamuni]] said that this is the place where all [[enlightened beings]] reside; [[Green Tara]], [[White Tara]], [[Avalokitesvara]], [[Guru Padmasambhava]] and all the [[buddhas]] and [[great bodhisattvas]]. [[Knowing]] this should fill you with [[confidence]] and [[joy]], as you [[contemplate]] going there yourself. Simply think, “When the time comes, my [[consciousness]] will go to [[Buddha Amitabha’s]] [[pure land]].” |
− | In preparation for the ejection, there are a number of visualizations involving the movement of syllables in the channels and other exercises. Phowa is an entire system of practices designed to establish this connection so that we can easily transfer our consciousness to the pure land of Buddha Amitabha at death. It is with that intention that we approach this practice as part of the ngöndro. | + | In preparation for the ejection, there are a number of [[visualizations]] involving the {{Wiki|movement}} of {{Wiki|syllables}} in the [[channels]] and other exercises. [[Phowa]] is an entire system of practices designed to establish this [[connection]] so that we can easily transfer our [[consciousness]] to the [[pure land of Buddha Amitabha]] at [[death]]. It is with that [[intention]] that we approach this practice as part of the [[ngöndro]]. |
− | The simplest application of the phowa is to remain as you normally appear while visualizing Buddha Amitabha one arm’s length above your crown chakra. Imagine your consciousness concentrated in your central channel, which is wide open at the crown. This open window is a direct conduit to the heart of Amitabha. | + | The simplest application of the [[phowa]] is to remain as you normally appear while [[visualizing]] [[Buddha Amitabha]] one arm’s length above your [[crown chakra]]. [[Imagine]] your [[consciousness]] [[concentrated]] in your [[central channel]], which is wide open at the {{Wiki|crown}}. This open window is a direct conduit to the [[heart]] of [[Amitabha]]. |
− | ===GONPO OD PAG MED LA SOL WA DEB ZAB LAM PHO WA JONG WAR CHIN GYI LOB=== | + | ===[[GONPO OD PAG MED LA SOL WA DEB ZAB LAM PHO WA JONG WAR CHIN GYI LOB]]=== |
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− | Grant me the blessings to perfect the Transference of Consciousness, in the profound path of Phowa. | + | Grant me the [[blessings]] to {{Wiki|perfect}} the [[Transference]] of [[Consciousness]], in the [[profound path]] of [[Phowa]]. |
− | Chant these lines while you hold this intention with strength and sincerity. Imagine your consciousness ascending to the heart center of the Buddha Amitabha and then returning. It is not really necessary to visualize consciousness leaving the body. Simply think, “When the time comes, this is what I | + | [[Chant]] these lines while you hold this [[intention]] with strength and sincerity. [[Imagine]] your [[consciousness]] ascending to the [[heart center]] of the [[Buddha Amitabha]] and then returning. It is not really necessary to [[visualize]] [[consciousness]] leaving the [[body]]. Simply think, “When the time comes, this is what I |
− | will do; I am definitely going to transfer my consciousness to the heart center of Buddha Amitabha.” Practicing in this way opens us to this possibility, and prepares the passage for the transference of consciousness to Dewachen. Although it is not mentioned here, you can conclude the practice by envisioning Buddha Amitabha dissolving into light, which is absorbed into your heart center and merges with your awareness. Meditate for a short time in that union. | + | will do; I am definitely going to transfer my [[consciousness]] to the [[heart center]] of [[Buddha Amitabha]].” Practicing in this way opens us to this possibility, and prepares the passage for the [[transference of consciousness]] to [[Dewachen]]. Although it is not mentioned here, you can conclude the practice by envisioning [[Buddha Amitabha]] dissolving into {{Wiki|light}}, which is absorbed into your [[heart center]] and merges with your [[awareness]]. [[Meditate]] for a short time in that union. |
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− | The seventh and final section of the ngöndro is a combination of the chöd practice and dedication prayers. There’s three lines: | + | The seventh and final section of the [[ngöndro]] is a combination of the [[chöd practice]] and [[dedication]] [[prayers]]. There’s three lines: |
DA NI LU DANG LONG CHOD GE TSAR CHE MA GYUR DRO LA PHANG PA MED PAR TANG DRO DON LAB CHEN GEG MED DRUB PAR SHOG | DA NI LU DANG LONG CHOD GE TSAR CHE MA GYUR DRO LA PHANG PA MED PAR TANG DRO DON LAB CHEN GEG MED DRUB PAR SHOG | ||
− | Now, my body, possessions, and the source of my virtue, all together, I give without clinging to all beings who have been my parents. May I accomplish great benefits, unobstructedly, for all beings. | + | Now, my [[body]], possessions, and the source of my [[virtue]], all together, I give without [[clinging]] to all [[beings]] who have been my [[parents]]. May I accomplish great benefits, unobstructedly, for all [[beings]]. |
− | What is the meaning of the Chöd? Like Phowa, Chöd is also an elaborate Vajrayana teaching involving a whole system of practices. Chöd means cutting through. What is it you are cutting through? Ego-clinging, self grasping, fear and the holding of dualistic thoughts. To begin this practice, we focus on dualistic thoughts and ego-clinging. This attitude of self-grasping is the root of all our illusory fabrications. It is the source of all of our difficulties. So we cut it immediately, giving ego-clinging a blow to the head. | + | What is the meaning of the [[Chöd]]? Like [[Phowa]], [[Chöd]] is also an elaborate [[Vajrayana]] [[teaching]] involving a whole system of practices. [[Chöd]] means cutting through. What is it you are cutting through? [[Ego-clinging]], [[self]] [[grasping]], {{Wiki|fear}} and the holding of [[dualistic]] [[thoughts]]. To begin this practice, we focus on [[dualistic]] [[thoughts]] and [[ego-clinging]]. This [[attitude]] of [[self-grasping]] is the [[root]] of all our [[illusory]] [[fabrications]]. It is the source of all of our difficulties. So we cut it immediately, giving [[ego-clinging]] a blow to the head. |
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
+ | How do we make this cut? In the disposition of profound [[equanimity]], [[knowing]] that our [[true nature]] is as vast as the sky. We must have a basic [[realization]] of great [[openness]]. The unshakeable [[equanimity]] of the [[true nature]] is beyond {{Wiki|hope}} and intimidation, so be [[fearless]] and confident in your approach. | ||
+ | In a [[sadhana]] called the “Bellowing [[Laugh]] of the [[Dakinis]]” by the famous [[Nyingma master]] [[Jigme Lingpa]], he wrote | ||
− | |||
+ | “I am a [[fearless]] [[yogi]] who practices [[crazy wisdom]] [[activity]]. Through [[realization]] which encompasses [[samsara and nirvana]] as {{Wiki|equal}}, I [[dance]] and trample upon the {{Wiki|demons}} of [[ego-clinging]] and grind [[samsaric]], [[dualistic]] [[thinking]] into dust.” | ||
− | |||
+ | With such [[thoughts]], we make a [[gift]] of ourselves and share everything that we have, [[including]] the [[body]], with all [[beings]] without any exceptions or partiality. That’s the way to cut off [[ego-clinging]] and the basic [[idea]] behind [[Chöd practice]]. | ||
− | |||
− | + | The third and last line is a [[dedication of merit]] to all [[beings]] combined with an [[aspirational prayer]]. In English it says: “May I accomplish great benefits, unobstructedly, for all [[beings]].” This aspirational-dedication [[prayer]] concludes the whole [[ngöndro practice]], not just the [[Chöd]] section. You’re sharing | |
+ | whatever [[merit]] you have [[accumulated]] from performing the [[ngöndro]] for the [[joy]], [[peace]] and [[complete enlightenment]] of all [[beings]]. You are also expressing an aspirational wish to be a continual source of [[benefit]] to all [[sentient beings]] until they all reach [[enlightenment]]. As [[Longchenpa]] says in another [[prayer]], “May I not become bored and tired of accomplishing the [[benefit]] of others. By my [[own]] tremendous, impartial service to others, may everyone attain [[Buddhahood]] together.” | ||
− | |||
− | Padmasambhava are all performed one hundred thousand times. And, of course, as good practitioners you’ll want to add more onto each of those. But it’s not just about numbers. Each time that you practice you should merge your heart and mind with the true meaning of the prayers, visualizations and meditation. That’s the right spirit in which to practice the ngöndro. In this way, it becomes the completion stage practice for all the Buddha’s teachings. This is very special. | + | Now I have completely opened the [[ngöndro practice]] to you and explained many different aspects of it so that you can begin to engage it with a good [[understanding]] of what you are doing. There is one last important point you should know. Each of the major [[sections]] is to be practiced one hundred thousand times. The [[refuge]] practice, [[prostrations]], generating the [[bodhicitta]], the [[mandala offering]], [[Vajrasattva’s]] onehundred-syllable [[mantra]], and the [[mantra]] of [[Guru Padmasambhava]] are all performed one hundred thousand times. And, of course, as good practitioners you’ll want to add more onto each of those. But it’s not just about numbers. Each time that you practice you should merge your [[heart]] and [[mind]] with the true meaning of the [[prayers]], [[visualizations]] and [[meditation]]. That’s the right [[spirit]] in which to practice the [[ngöndro]]. In this way, it becomes the [[completion stage practice]] for all the [[Buddha’s teachings]]. This is very special. |
− | In the nineteenth century, the famous Nyingma master Patrul Rinpoche made ngöndro one of his main practices. He was a great Dzogchen yogi, a very highly realized being, and a leading lineage master of his day. Nonetheless, he completed the ngöndro again and again. | + | In the nineteenth century, the famous [[Nyingma master]] [[Patrul Rinpoche]] made [[ngöndro]] one of his main practices. He was a great [[Dzogchen]] [[yogi]], a very highly [[realized]] being, and a leading [[lineage master]] of his day. Nonetheless, he completed the [[ngöndro]] again and again. |
− | When you begin, only do as much as you can. You don’t have to finish the accumulations in six months or even a year, but keep it up. Make the ngöndro the main part of your practice and complete it as soon as you can. | + | When you begin, only do as much as you can. You don’t have to finish the [[accumulations]] in six months or even a year, but keep it up. Make the [[ngöndro]] the main part of your practice and complete it as soon as you can. |
− | Questions and Answers: | + | ===Questions and Answers:=== |
− | Q: The Seven Line Prayer [tshig bdun gsol ‘debs bzhugs so] appears not to be a part of the ngöndro; do you recommend doing it as part of the guru yoga section anyway? | + | Q: The [[Seven Line Prayer]] [[[tshig bdun gsol ‘debs]] [[bzhugs so]]] appears not to be a part of the [[ngöndro]]; do you recommend doing it as part of the [[guru yoga]] section anyway? |
− | A: Yes definitely, if your time permits. It is good to include three repetitions of the Seven Line Prayer as part of the ngöndro practice and to follow it with the mantra of Guru Padmasambhava. It can be added into the section of guru yoga after the four lines that begin with DU SUM SANGYE MA LU DU PAI KU. This is very good to do. If you don’t have time to do the whole ngöndro practice, then simply begin with the guru yoga. Visualize yourself as Vajrayogini gazing upon Guru Padmasambhava and then, full of devotion, love, compassion and a feeling of closeness, chant the Seven Line Prayer three times, and recite a mala of the Twelve Syllable Mantra. Do as much as you have time for. Receive the blessings as Guru Padmasambhava dissolves back into the natural state, meditate for a few minutes and dedicate the merit. | + | A: Yes definitely, if your time permits. It is good to include three repetitions of the [[Seven Line Prayer]] as part of the [[ngöndro practice]] and to follow it with the [[mantra]] of [[Guru Padmasambhava]]. It can be added into the section of [[guru yoga]] after the four lines that begin with DU SUM SANGYE MA LU DU PAI KU. This is very good to do. If you don’t have time to do the whole [[ngöndro practice]], then simply begin with the [[guru yoga]]. [[Visualize]] yourself as [[Vajrayogini]] gazing upon [[Guru Padmasambhava]] and then, full of [[devotion]], [[love]], [[compassion]] and a [[feeling]] of closeness, [[chant]] the [[Seven Line Prayer]] three times, and recite a [[mala]] of the Twelve [[Syllable Mantra]]. Do as much as you have time for. Receive the [[blessings]] as [[Guru Padmasambhava]] dissolves back into the natural [[state]], [[meditate]] for a few minutes and dedicate the [[merit]]. |
Q: How long does it take to go through the whole thing? | Q: How long does it take to go through the whole thing? | ||
− | A: It depends, but a good average might run about 30-40 minutes. If you put more time into the visualizations, chanting or emptiness meditation, it might be longer. When you | + | A: It depends, but a good average might run about 30-40 minutes. If you put more time into the [[visualizations]], [[chanting]] or [[emptiness meditation]], it might be longer. When you |
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start, don’t engage the practice for a long time, make your sessions short. As you get comfortable with it, you can add more time. | start, don’t engage the practice for a long time, make your sessions short. As you get comfortable with it, you can add more time. | ||
− | Q: Can you say more about the winds, drops and channels in relation to the inner aspect of refuge? | + | Q: Can you say more about the [[winds]], drops and [[channels]] in [[relation]] to the inner aspect of [[refuge]]? |
− | A: There’s numerous teachings in the Vajrayana, but according to the inner tantras, the channels correspond to the nirmanakaya as do the dakinis, the wind systems correspond to the sambhogakaya as do the deities, and the essence elements of the body are dharmakaya, which also appears in the form of the lama or guru. In the tantric teachings, there are meanings and correspondences at many levels. The channels, winds and essence elements of the body are part of the dynamics of the true nature. Because of them, we are aware of the entire universe of phenomena. Without these three, nothing will arise. They reflect the subtle energy of our true nature which is projected out into many coarser forms and conditions. On the absolute level, the rtsa, rlung and thig-le are no other than the three kayas or the three objects of refuge. | + | A: There’s numerous teachings in the [[Vajrayana]], but according to the [[inner tantras]], the [[channels]] correspond to the [[nirmanakaya]] as do the [[dakinis]], the [[wind]] systems correspond to the [[sambhogakaya]] as do the [[deities]], and the [[essence]] [[elements]] of the [[body]] are [[dharmakaya]], which also appears in the [[form]] of the [[lama]] or [[guru]]. In the [[tantric teachings]], there are meanings and correspondences at many levels. The [[channels]], [[winds]] and [[essence]] [[elements]] of the [[body]] are part of the dynamics of the [[true nature]]. Because of them, we are {{Wiki|aware}} of the entire [[universe]] of [[phenomena]]. Without these three, nothing will arise. They reflect the [[subtle energy]] of our [[true nature]] which is {{Wiki|projected}} out into many coarser [[forms]] and [[conditions]]. On the [[absolute]] level, the rtsa, [[rlung]] and [[thig-le]] are no other than the [[three kayas]] or the [[three objects]] of [[refuge]]. |
− | According to Dzogchen, in the ultimate state everything is complete within rigpa or the true nature. Emptiness, clarity and their union are the three kayas, the three roots and the three jewels; rigpa itself embodies everything we’ve just explained: the winds, drops and channels and the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha are all complete within this singularity. It’s sometimes called the one-bindu state or zero condition. | + | According to [[Dzogchen]], in the [[Wikipedia:Absolute (philosophy)|ultimate]] [[state]] everything is complete within [[rigpa]] or the [[true nature]]. [[Emptiness]], clarity and their union are the [[three kayas]], the [[three roots]] and the [[three jewels]]; [[rigpa]] itself [[embodies]] everything we’ve just explained: the [[winds]], drops and [[channels]] and the [[Buddha]], [[Dharma]] and [[Sangha]] are all complete within this [[singularity]]. It’s sometimes called the one-bindu [[state]] or zero [[condition]]. |
Latest revision as of 20:47, 6 March 2024
Düd jom ter sar ngön drö ngag dön dü pa zhug
This commentary was compiled from teachings given by the Khenpos at various practice centers across the U.S. over the last ten years. These were transcribed by members of the Turtle Hill Sangha in Tennessee, merged and edited by Padma Shugchang. This manuscript is still in the editorial stage and has not yet been officially approved by the Khenpos, so all errors are mine alone. Comments and criticism are appreciated.
Padma Shugchang (Craig Bialick) 11/26/99
Homage to the gracious root teacher, who embodies the masters of the three lineages. Please pour down a shower of blessings.
Buddha Shakyamuni, the supreme, unequalled teacher, taught the Dharma on many different levels. The teaching most essential, accesible, and easy to practice is the ngöndro, or preliminary practice. Patrul Rinpoche, the great scholar
and siddha, said that even though it is called “preliminary practice”, there is no other practice which is more profound than ngöndro. Many great masters of antiquity accomplished the primordial wisdom of enlightenment through this secret and profound path.
The ngöndro presented here originated as a terma of Dudjom Lingpa. Later, it was written down with technical clarification by his succeeding reincarnation, H.H. Dudjom Rinpoche, Jigdral Yeshe Dorje, prophesied by Guru Rinpoche himself as his own regent, and renowned as the sun and moon. Through his unlimited transmission, initiations and pith instructions as well as historical background, all of which, like a potent seed, will mature in our minds and liberate us.
Therefore, this ngöndro is one of his teachings that we receive which is full of blessings and power. Among its many different versions, this one, being highly condensed, is especially suitable for our busy modern times. By taking support of a foundation practice such as this, all our dharma practice can result in our realization of the primordial wisdom, and all the great lineage masters will be our witness. Therefore, we should accept this practice with joy, respect and appreciation.
- Through the power of this virtue May the Vajrayana teachings of the ancient translation school endure May the life force of all the noble lineage holders remain firm and their activities increase; May the world be free of disease, famine, war, and natural disasters, and be filled with love and joy and peace; May a golden age be upon us, and all beings swiftly attain enlightenment.
Khenchen Palden Sherab Rinpoche Khenpo Tsewang Dongyal Rinpoche
INTRODUCTION
Today, I am going to talk about Ngöndro and the related practices. This is truly the essence of all the different teachings of the Buddha, from the Hinayana up to the great Dzogchen teachings. Ngöndro Practice contains the heart teachings of all
those levels. This technique was condensed by the great tantric master, Guru Padmasambhava. He arranged it in such a way that any student can apply and practice every single teaching of the Buddha towards the discovery of inner wisdom, the realization of enlightenment.
The Buddha Shakyamuni came to this world over two thousand five hundred and thirty-eight years ago. After his enlightenment at age thirty-five, he taught for forty-five years, offering many levels of instruction relative to individual capacities,
and opening the door to great awakening for anyone interested in accomplishing the highest good for themselves as well as all others. All of the Buddha’s teachings lead to the realization of Buddhahood and can be generally divided into two categories: the philosophical systems and methods of practical application.
Buddhist philosophical views are as deep as the ocean and boundless as the sky. The philosophical traditions include many branches such as Sravakayana or Hinayana, Mahayana, Mind Only School, Madhyamika tradition, the Vajrayana lineages and others. These schools are all concerned with the true meaning of experience and accurate descriptions of phenomenal transformations, such as how everything is constantly changing and working together in interdependence.
However, philosophy itself is only a prelude to practice. Effective inquiry and analysis lead to meaningful application. The Buddha wasn’t trying to create an intellectual society or an academic system. He was intent on communicating the ultimate state of our true nature. Philosophy has a necessary function and serves to
exercise our inner wisdom so that we can begin to understand; however, this level of knowledge alone will not lead to the fullness of enlightenment or the ultimate realization of love, compassion, wisdom and joy. Great equanimity and transcendent insight never come through intellectual pursuits alone.
The ngöndro practice is a condensed form of the entire Dharma expounded by the Buddha, including the teachings of Guru Padmasambhava and many other lineage masters. Nothing has been left out. The ngöndro encompasses all of the essentials which lead to enlightenment and the actualization of this practice is of great benefit for everyone. It is a skillful method, an easy way to apply the views clarified by philosophical inquiries into mind and life, so that these
understandings can transform our activities. As we practice, our interest and devotion quite naturally awaken, encouraging us to deeper commitment. In this way, we can have a direct connection with the core of our true nature, a
practical means of embodying profound love, genuine compassion, perfect wisdom and joy. Ngöndro practice will ground our body, speech and mind in the true nature so that we can begin to mature the two benefits. It is of vital importance for those who seek enlightenment.
To take up the ngöndro, you must become familiar with the actual practice. Beyond learning about the form and meaning, we must know how to implement it. Without that knowledge, mere interest will not actualize the fullness of the ultimate result. Therefore, it is necessary to know how to practice. Ngöndro introduces us to the Vajrayana methods; it is full of insight, inspiration and subtle instructions which tell us
exactly how to apply ourselves. This form has been handed down through generations of great masters, so it is not as though we have to struggle and create something new. This is a well-established highway and if you simply follow the signs, you can begin moving with confidence and joy. This highway goes directly there. Many accomplished masters, both male and female, arrived at the final destination and discovered their Buddha nature in this way. So it is said to be rich with inspirational advice and [[pith
instructions]]. Hence, there is no need to hesitate, take detours or make u-turns. Just go ahead, joyfully. This is how the precious lineage teachings have been continually preserved in unbroken succession. We too, can adopt the ngöndro as our practice to develop the necessary courage, commitment and inspiration as we work toward our own enlightenment for the sake of all sentient beings.
THE NINE YANAS
'Yana' is Sanskrit for vehicle. In the Nyingma Schools they list nine yanas or vehicles of practice. The first three are known as the Sravakayana, the Pratyekabuddhayana and the Bodhisattvayana. These three are known as the causal yanas [S. hetuyana]. The other six yanas are all Vajrayana teachings or tantras. The three outer tantras are called Kriyayoga, Upayoga and Yogatantra. They are known as the three external tantrayanas. The three inner tantras are Mahayoga, Anuyoga and Atiyoga. Atiyoga, Mahasandhi and Dzogchen are synonyms: one meaning, different names. These six tantric teachings are known together as the fruition or result yanas [S. phalayana].
Guru Padmasambhava’s clothes symbolize these nine yana teachings. I am sure you have noticed that he is wearing many different robes. This doesn’t mean he felt very cold in Tibetan weather and would wear whatever he could find. Everything that he wears is a symbol of these different teachings. According to Dzogchen and the Nyingma lineage of Guru Padmasambhava, we are not to discriminate against any of the teachings. All are either support, ornamentation,
or part of the Dzogchen teaching. Don’t reject any of these saying, “Oh, that is just Hinayana, that is only a Bodhisattvayana practice, that is merely an outer tantrayana exercise. I don’t care about that, I don’t need any of this, because I only practice Dzogchen.” That is not the right way to look at it. All of those teachings are like the ornamentation, or branches of Dzogchen, as in one tree. Dzogchen is the fruit, but all the other teachings support
the highest branches of the tree. Every one of the practices in those vehicles helps to remove obscurations and reveal our enlightened nature. For example, Hinayana teachings are a support for the Mahayana teachings and Sutra Mahayana teachings are a support for the Vajrayana teachings. The three outer tantras are a support for the three inner tantras. It is like a staircase where the first step supports the second, the first and second support the
third and the rest. Every one of those teachings is a support for the Dzogchen transmission. Therefore, we should accept them all and we should not reject some out of hand, thinking we are superior practitioners. “I don't need that,” is a wrong attitude.
THE MEANING
Ngöndro is a word made of two parts: ngön and dro. In Tibetan, ngön means ahead or before and dro means going. Sometimes it is translated as “preliminary,” but that is not an exact translation. It’s more like going before or going forward. When you’re traveling with a group in new territory, there’s often a guide who helps out by bringing news of what’s ahead. Similarly, our path must be guided by wisdom. Anyone who wants to get enlightened should “go ahead” and practice the ngöndro. Many people tend to think that ngöndro practice is just an appetizer, or a pre
school for beginners, but this is not the case. At this point, you must start to comprehend the importance of the ngöndro. Even though there are more advanced practices, there’s nothing more essential and necessary than what we encounter right here. These practices not only allow us to go ahead and begin; they are also essential in the middle of the path as well as after the goal has been reached. To take up the ngöndro ensures that the whole endeavor is fully spiritual, qualified Dharma practice.
THE BENEFIT
Ngöndro practice will help us develop confidence and joy in our efforts to become enlightened for the sake of all beings. By applying the practices and understanding the meaning of the words, you feel inspired and encouraged. You become more aware of how valuable this opportunity is. We’ve all inherited the Buddha seed, everyone of us. The ngöndro practices help us appreciate this in ourselves as well as in others. A new understanding begins to take root as our obscurations are gradually purified, giving rise to the wisdom which recognizes all beings as equals. Everyone has an opportunity to work joyfully and courageously for their own as well as other's enlightenment. Diligent application of this practice will totally remove deep-seated karmic obscurations and neurotic habit-patterns acquired in this life, while simultaneously revealing our Buddha nature.
THE TREASURE
There have been many ngöndro practices revealed by great masters and tertons. They all follow a similar structure although their length varies. This particular version of the ngöndro practice is very condensed. It was revealed by His Holiness Dudjom Rinpoche, a great terton and the head of the Nyingma school, who passed away in 1987. The text is based on works revealed by his predecessors with some technical instructions added by His Holiness. It is an especially good practice for this busy generation.
THE SECTIONS
I: The Four Reflections which Reverse the Mind II: The Actual Preliminaries • A) Going for Refuge • B) The Generation of Bodhicitta III: The Accumulation of Merit: Mandala Offering IV: The Purification of Obscurations: Vajrasattva V: The Swiftly Penetrating Blessings of the Guru Yoga VI: The Transference (Phowa)
VII: Chöd Practice and Dedication Prayers
The actual preliminaries are preceded by the four renunciations. These are also known as the four reversals which turn the mind toward the Dharma. Contemplating the meaning of each of these statements is a powerful technique which can change our attitude toward samsara and clarify our understanding of the phenomenal world. These four thoughts are generally associated with the Hinayana teachings, and in particular, they correspond to the Four Noble Truths which the Buddha Shakyamuni first taught to five human students, 80,000 celestial beings and many animals, in a small park on the outskirts Varanasi, India 2500 years ago. The Buddha explained that in order to be liberated, you must understand the nature of suffering. Pain and suffering are never random or accidental; there is always a cause. Everyone would like to be liberated from suffering, but to do so we must first look into its origins. To recognize and remove the cause of suffering one must have a reliable method. This is called the path. The path indicated by the Buddha leads us beyond suffering into the joy, peace and love, of nirvana. Understand the causes of suffering, then follow the path and you will attain nirvana.
The four noble truths consist of:
1. suffering
3. nirvana
4. the cause of nirvana, which is also known as the path
On the basis of these truths, we can develop insight into our feelings and individual experiences so that complete realization becomes possible. The next section is the refuge. Going for refuge is the primary condition for practice and begins the preliminaries. Without it there’s no growth or true realization of the profound meaning. After taking refuge, the focus turns to developing bodhicitta. This is a term indicating the mind of infinite love, compassion and wisdom in relation to all beings, oneself included.
Mandala offering is the third section of the ngöndro. There are many different varieties of mandala, but in this case we are making what is called an offering mandala. We visualize, meditate. and then present imaginary offerings to all the buddhas and bodhisattvas.
The fourth section focuses on the Buddha Vajrasattva. This practice purifies obscurations and removes obstacles.
The fifth part in this sequence involves practicing guru yoga on Guru Padmasambhava. See him as the embodiment of all of the buddhas and bodhisattvas and as a skilfull display of the Three Jewels. To feel the presence of Guru Padmasambhava and practice on merging with him is known as guru yoga. The sixth section is related to the transference of consciousness, the phowa practice. This does not mean that we need to effect transference at this time, but we’re preparing for that inevitable moment when the mind will separate from the body. At that point this practice will enable us to easily transfer our consciousness to the pure land of the Buddha Amitabha. [T. bde wa chen]
The last part of the ngöndro is called the charity of the body. This is a very brief chöd practice combined with the dedication of merit. These are the seven sub-divisions of the ngöndro.
ALIGNMENTS
The ngöndro is a complete practice which embodies the whole of the Buddha’s teachings. This is very useful because every word that the Buddha taught had a reason and purpose relating directly to the recognition and transcendence of all possible states of mind and emotion, both gross and subtle. These practices give us the power and confidence to recognize and release each emotion. In this way we can begin to purify
and transform the mind until our Buddha nature is completely revealed. Our understanding becomes more powerful and profound, and the view more vast and spacious. There is no need to limit ourselves to a single method. The Buddha offers us many different techniques which all work toward the same end: they either remove, purify, or transform the emotions. Of course, these methods must be applied relative to our capabilities.
If you can, practice the ngöndro in the early morning. That’s how most great masters did it. If that’s not convenient, don’t be discouraged; just find a time when you can fit it in. Do it at midnight rather than skip it.
When you practice, sit comfortably on a cushion (or chair) so that you can relax your body. Be quiet and calm your mind. Stop all discursive thinking, just let thoughts be and dissolve in their own place, wherever that is. Disengage. Don’t dwell on the past or think about the future and don’t follow your current thoughts. Let the mind be. Do not try to work with the thoughts themselves; leave them on the side. Keep awareness in the present moment. This is referred to as a state of freshness. This momentary, instant state of the mind is the most precious condition. In Dzogchen, it is called “the primordial mind, the originally pure, naked mind.” It is free of obscurity, and undisturbed by emotions or thoughts.
From that crystal clear mind, love and compassion for all sentient beings arise spontaneously and unceasingly, filling one with joy, respect and appreciation for the preciousness of our situation, for the gifts of the teacher, the teachings, and many other things.
All of this has not come about by accident. Everything has causes and supportive conditions, everything has a reason. This beautiful moment of experience is not arbitrary and meaningless; therefore, we should look into the deeper meaning, learn to appreciate the way it is, and have respect for others. This is very important. So sit down, relax and cultivate this awareness for one or two minutes before you begin.
Reflect on the preciousness of the teaching, the teacher, and the lineage until you feel tremendous devotion. This warm feeling of closeness is indispensable: Buddha often said that devotion is the door to enlightenment. Without devotion, realization and enlightenment will not develop. Devotion consists of love, compassion and inspiration, all joined together. It is not based in hope and belief; you actually learn to value this view and are able
to make good use of the teaching situation. Practice without devotion is like trying to drink from a tea-strainer; everything good passes through and one is left with nothing but the old leaves. Devotion, love, and compassion, inspiration, closeness and warmth of feeling are extremely important. They help us overcome any obstacles and bring forth our best qualities, the essential attitudes necessary to become enlightened and realize benefits for others. True devotion is completely the opposite of the tea-strainer, it catches everything good and thoroughly removes what we don’t need.
Love, joy, the power of inspiration and many more beautiful qualities are unified and perfectly reflected in the form of Guru Padmasambhava. Guru Padmasambhava is the embodiment of the wisdom, love and compassion of all the buddhas and bodhisattvas. Their essence is integrated and displayed in the form of Guru Padmasambhava, even as he historically existed. Guru Padmasambhava represents all true masters, and anyone with whom you have felt this kind of connection. He symbolizes all the Buddhas, the Dharma and the Sangha, and in the higher tantras, the guru, deva and dakinis.
Guru Padmasambhava appears seated in front of you in the posture of royal relaxation, bright with the energy of love, compassion, wisdom and divine inspiration. His body radiates with the power of blessings in the form of the five wisdom lights (white, yellow, red, blue and green, or multiple lights). This is the luminosity of love and compassion, the all-pervading light of perfect wisdom, which removes all obscurations and instantly awakens the Buddha nature of every single sentient being, transforming the whole universe into the pure land, a state of total love, compassion and wisdom. Open yourself, feel the power of these radiations and let this blissful awareness deepen. Guru Padmasambhava is surrounded by many buddhas and bodhisattvas, both male and female, or as they are referred to in the tantras, dakas and dakinis. They are all here, right in front of us, smiling, blissful, radiant and ready to assist us on our journey, encouraging us to explore our Buddha nature.
With an awareness of their presence, begin to chant:
NAMO! LU MED TEN GYI GONPO LAMA KHYEN
Homage lama, infallible constant protector, (you who) know!
FIRST- The Preparation— The Recitation of the Four Reflections which Reverse the Mind
The Tibetan word khyen is often translated as you who know, and sometimes as “you who are aware,” or “you who watch,” but actually it means, “Please, watch over me, help me, regard me. You know my motivation, my inspiration, my bodhicitta commitment, so help me to explore my Buddha nature and fulfill my visions and wishes.” That’s the basic meaning of “you who know.” gonpo lama means “infallible, constant protector.” The condensed ngöndro contains all of this in one line, but many longer forms of this prayer exist. In Tibet, it is called Lama Jang Bö [T. rgyang ‘bod] which means “Calling the Lama from Afar.” We call on the lama to help guide and assist us in removing obscurations and revealing our Buddha nature so that we may attain Buddhahood for the sake of all living beings.
The next four lines are called the four renunciations or the four attitudes which turn the mind from samsara toward the dharma. These four statements express a clear understanding of the nature of samsara.
DAL JOR DI NI SHIN TU NYED PAR KA
The freedoms and favorable conditions are extremely difficult to obtain.
This line refers to the special qualities and endowments of this unique human rebirth. The Tibetan dal jor has many explanations in the philosophical teachings. Eighteen specific qualities make our present condition very, very precious. It is said that a body endowed with these eighteen qualities is extremely rare and difficult to obtain. Among these, there are eight freedoms: not having been born in hell, not being a hungry ghost or an animal, not having taken birth as a long-lived god. According to the Buddha, there are many levels of the god realm and although they all tend to have extremely long lives, their minds are very dull. They hibernate beyond sensation where there’s nothing to do, as if they were convalescing in a nursing home. Very little
progress or change happens in that environment. Their lives go on for ages but such a situation is not that useful for spiritual growth, so we don’t want to be born in that realm. We have not taken birth as savages, nor are we dominated by many negative, violent actions. Finally, we have the good fortune of being free of serious physical or mental handicaps such as muteness or imbecility.
Then there’s the ten luxuries or favorable conditions: to be born as a human being, with all your critical faculties, to be free of extreme views, to be in a place where the teaching is available, to have an interest in and devotion to the dharma. These five luxuries are associated with oneself. Five more are related to external conditions: the Buddha has been here, he gave teachings which still remain, there are practitioners following the path and a teacher is available.
Together, the eight freedoms and ten favorable conditions comprise the eighteen precious qualities associated with this human rebirth. Such an opportunity is not easy to come by. Actually, it’s very special. The verse reads, “The freedoms and favorable conditions are extremely difficult to obtain.” Consider how precious life is and learn to respect and appreciate the present. This situation didn’t arise by accident; all these beautiful qualities, opportunities and freedoms are not just abstractions, or easily acquired. Of course we are all familiar with the relative difficulties of life, but overall, every one of us has plenty of good reasons to feel joyful and happy, to appreciate the preciousness of our situation. We are surrounded by so many beautiful things. First we have to recognize that such good fortune is difficult to come by, then we have to appreciate and value this opportunity in a meaningful way. Simply to be aware of this is not enough. We have to use this precious occasion as the cause for an even greater result.
The second line is:
KYE TSHED MI TAG CHI WAI CHO CHAN YIN
Everything born is impermanent and bound to die
Consider the precious gift of this human body and the special opportunities it represents. How long is it going to last? There’s no guarantee or certainty about it. Everything in this world is constantly shifting and changing. This is called impermanence. Movement and change are the natural law pervading the whole phenomenal universe. The sun and moon, our inner state, and everything external, from galaxies to the cells of your body, is in constant motion and incessantly changing. It never stops, not even for one second. If it did, there would be a big disaster; or maybe a surprise so great we couldn’t handle it. Understand that the nature of all phenomena is impermanence. This is very important to contemplate.
While you still have a precious human body, it is yours to do with as you will. You have to bring the bright light of clear vision into play. Be aware of the value of this moment. You have all your functions and basically, you can do what you want to. Before things have changed too much and the circumstance degenerates, learn to use this life for a greater purpose. Make these endowments the cause for a higher result.
Awareness of impermanence is important for our own peace of mind, so we aren’t shocked when things change. Through observation and contemplation, we are able to see how change is natural. This applies to everything. If we understand that
change and movement are the law, we can accept what is happening and not be neurotically obsessed with false explanations. Reality is right in front of us, in each and every one of our experiences. You don’t have to be a sophisticated physicist to understand this, you don’t have to be a highly realized master, it’s right here all of the time, immediately in front of us. This is good to know and good to reveal.
The visual representation of the Wheel of Life depicting the six realms surrounded by the twelve links comprising the system of interdependent coordination was actually The visual representation of the Wheel of Life depicting the six realms surrounded by the twelve links comprising the system of interdependent coordination was actually designed by the Buddha Shakyamuni. He asked his disciples to paint this illustration on the wall outside the temples so that
everyone would always be aware of our situation. The wheel is always turning, it constantly moves, it is not locked or fixed in place. The outer rim is grasped by a three-eyed monster who represents impermanence. Through the Buddha’s metaphor, we can see how everything and everybody is subject to change, without any exceptions.
“Everything that is born...” Another way to put it is that everything which appears is impermanent and bound to change. This can be understood generally or in particular. Everything is constantly changing and moving in time and space. By understanding that our human body is difficult to obtain, we learn to appreciate and value it because it is not going to stay like this forever. Things are not even the same from one moment to the next. We will eventually come to the end of our present situation and move on to another state. Everything is always in flux and flowing, moving and shifting.
The third line reads:
GE DIG LE KYI GYU DRE LU WA MED
The results of virtuous and non virtuous actions are inexorable
To help us understand the relation between causes, conditions and their results, the Buddha taught the law of karma. Karma is a Sanskrit word meaning action. Whatever you see in this world, whether it is good or bad, beautiful or ugly, has particular causes and supportive conditions which have led to its present manifestation. Hence good action results in goodness and bad deeds yield negative results. Nothing appears without causes and conditions and the systematic relation between causes and effects is known as karma.
When we study natural systems, we can clearly discern how the principle of karma operates on the relative, phenomenal level. The continuity of the cause does not alter, change or lose its original energy. It maintains an identity and the integrity of the pattern never changes. Seed from sweet fruit will continue to produce sweet fruit. If the seed is from bitter fruit, you can be sure it will still be bitter when it ripens. If the seed is a cross of sweet
and sour together, the fruit will be similar. If it’s from red fruit, the new fruit will be red. Like these flowers here; if you replant their seeds in good soil and water them, you will soon see a similar color and shape appear once again. So the nature of karma never really changes; it inevitably has its way in ordering the transformations and changes which come about in the world. The rhythm and echo of past actions are communicated and extended throughout the generations across centuries of time.
The karmic system never fails or gets things mixed up. If you plant iris bulbs, these will not produce roses! This continuity is reflected in the pattern of our minds: positive seeds bring positive results, negative seeds bring negative harvests. Actions performed in love give rise to more love, angry vibrations bring about more anger. A joyful effort gives rise to more joy. Similar rhythms continue endlessly from beginningless time, throughout the aeons. The law of karma is very profound, steady and continuous. We don’t have to get abstract and philosophical to understand this, we can actually see
these workings displayed in the world, in simple patterns which are easily observed. Similarly, if we promote more love with this mind, we will realize more love. Love means joy, peace, and happiness; if we are more compassionate, it will be easier to relax, to be calm and peaceful. Therefore the great masters have taught that in order to realize joy, peace and happiness for ourselves as well as for all other sentient beings, we must learn to be loving and compassionate. If we love others, we will receive love ourselves. The quality of the energy we send out echoes back and forth. If we are angry, we are planting seeds for more discomfort and irritation. If we give love, we will receive love.
Whatever you do will reflect back to you. The effects never miss the target. They will not come to me. Whatever you do, you alone will experience. The effects will not be experienced by the elements or by any other people. No one will experience what you do aside from yourself, even if it takes a hundred million years; sooner or later it will echo back to you in the form of experience. Therefore you must be aware of the value of positive activity and create good causes and conditions. This recognition of impermanence is the subject of the third phrase used to turn the mind toward the Dharma.
The fourth line in Tibetan is:
KHAM SUM KHOR WA DUG NGAL GYA TSHOI NGANG
The three realms of cyclic existence have the nature of an ocean of suffering
In samsara there is no ultimate satisfaction. Perfect happiness cannot be obtained by manipulating or optimizing conditions. Guru Padmasambhava compared efforts to attain worldly happiness with the scratching of a leper; although it seems to promise relief, it only opens more wounds and gives rise to more itching and bleeding. Whatever we acquire or experience in this world offers no final satisfaction or lasting comfort. Even if it appears to be the best of
objects or situations, there will be some unanticipated aspect of it which does not meet up to our vision and turns everything upside-down. This does not imply something negative about you or others, it is just the nature of samsara. There’s always a measure of dissatisfaction and discomfort in the conditional world because everything’s constantly changing. It never stops. Our attachments and clinging result in suffering, misery and all the other
trouble that arises. Misfortunes follow one after another. This is part of life in samsara and not just some aberration, for such problems are part of our everyday reality. The abhidharma teachings list eleven different types of suffering. Among those are three root forms known as the suffering of suffering,
the suffering of change, and all-pervasive suffering. Contemplation of the four reversals is the primary means of gaining a clear understanding of the suffering which creates samsara, without resorting to abstract reasoning, logic and philosophical arguments. Rather, we see, know, and feel the truth of the situation before us. This clarity is the path itself. Therefore it is sometimes called “clearly knowing the image of samsara, both externally and internally.’
These four thoughts describe all that we have, and offer a critical awareness of the conditional world. This knowledge will give us a better understanding of samsara, so that we’re not just taken in by appearances. These thoughts develop our insight into the nature of the whole world. In the teachings they say you must accept whatever arises and continue to move on courageously as part of the game. Learn how to work well with your situation and carry on in the spirit of bodhicitta. Maintain a deep commitment to the practice to realize benefits for both yourself and all other beings.
The last line reads:
DRAN NE DAG LO CHO LA GYUR WAR SHOG
Remembering this may my mind turn towards the Dharma.
Through deepening our comprehension of the meaning of these four verses, we can begin to practice the Dharma effectively, which means cultivating good causes and conditions, and initiating positive resonances which will echo throughout time and space, not merely for ourselves but for every living being. This is a request for inspiration and support, beseeching the kindness of the lama, the buddhas and bodhisattvas, so that we may benefit all beings. “May my mind, body and speech be totally transformed, may I realize myself as non-separate from the Dharma.”
The four reversals constitute the first stage of the ngöndro practice. Now we’ll move on to the refuge.
SECOND: The Actual Preliminary Practice:
A. Going for Refuge
In order to explore our Buddha nature and begin the journey toward enlightenment, you must understand the meaning of taking refuge. To take refuge daily is the most essential practice of all schools of Buddhism.
The Tibetan word for refuge is skyabs which actually means having a sense of closeness, full confidence, a warm feeling and trusting attitude toward the Buddha, his teaching and those who are devoted to making the teaching a living experience.
In the ngöndro practice we recite the refuge vow right after chanting the four thoughts which clarify the nature of samsara; in the light of this understanding, we take refuge. The Indian Dzogchen master Vimalamitra said, “Knowing clearly the situation in samsara as well as the qualities of enlightened beings, we can go for refuge.” First we must know the nature of samsara. There is nothing here we can rely on, take comfort in or plan to stay
with. Everything is always changing and moving. Troubles follow one after another continuously, as if you’re in a tunnel which you have to dig by hand. Discouraged by the situation, the mind becomes unstable. In the face of this, we learn to take refuge in the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. This has many levels of meaning, but the act of going for refuge should always be accompanied by a feeling of closeness, warmth, and confidence. That’s the basic nature of taking refuge.
Love, faith and a sense of intimacy in relation to the Three Jewels open us to their influences which are of great assistance in removing our obscurations. Ignorance, attachment, anger, jealously, doubt and pride are all obstacles which create uncomfortable situations for us throughout our lives. We must work to remove, transform, or purify them: we can’t just leave them like they are. They are the source of all our difficulties, bringing imbalances and troubles
constantly. We have to look at them and deal with them. On the external level we can call on experts, people who can really help us change, those who have trod the path. All the buddhas and bodhisattvas were originally the same as we are. They were not higher or lower than normal sentient beings. However, through their extraordinary motivation, courage, commitment, and joyful efforts, they have become free of all negative emotions and mental obscurations, revealed their Buddha nature, and realized total enlightenment. When we seek assistance on the relative level, the buddhas have the knowledge and skills to purify our emotions and solve our problems so that we may become like them. That is the external aspect of taking refuge.
What is the nature of the Buddha? The Buddha nature is totally enlightened, completely free of all obscurations and habit patterns, radiant with love and compassion, and full of wisdom. That reality is known as the Buddha. When you are liberated from emotions, and are without mental obscurations, you are already naturally loving, compassionate and wise. These qualities are inherent in our being, as the Buddha clearly demonstrated. Buddhahood is not some novelty which the Buddha developed. He became enlightened through the destruction of all fetters and obstacles. That is the meaning of Buddha.
The Dharma is the method or body of techniques which help us awaken true love, genuine compassion and wisdom free from ego-clinging and neurotic games. Universal, unconditional love, selfless compassion, and transcendent wisdom pervade all samsaric beings, no matter their situation. The dharmic point of
view is without divisions into higher or lower, close or distant. Everyone has the Buddha nature, everyone needs love, compassion and wisdom and nobody enjoys being subject to anger, jealously, pride, pain and so on. This knowledge is called the Dharma. It is a message of freedom which offers us techniques
to purify all obscurations and totally reveal the ultimate state of the Buddha nature, the perfection of love, compassion, wisdom and peace. The Sangha refers to those who practice the Dharma, who carry it in their hearts and minds, applying it according to their capabilities, joyfully, with courage and commitment. Some sangha members have a high degree of love, compassion and wisdom and some are only beginners, but all are motivated toward
enlightenment, dedicated to the realization of benefits for all sentient beings. Also, the sangha can take the form of an individual who has some realization and begins to share and inspire other beings. That too is sangha. These companions serve as a source of inspiration and joy, setting examples for others to follow on the path toward enlightenment.
In English:
I take refuge in the Buddha I take refuge in the Dharma I take refuge in the Sangha
In Sanskrit:
Buddham saranam gacchami Dharmam saranam gacchami Sangham saranam gacchami
In Tibetan:
Sangye la kyab su chi-o Chö la kyab su chi-o Gendun la kyab su chi-o
The objects of refuge are the Three Jewels or the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha. Who is taking refuge? Individuals are motivated to take refuge on the basis of their own interest, feeling of warmth, closeness, and confidence in the Three Jewels. No one can be pressured or forced into taking refuge. It only happens through individual joyful effort, by opening your heart and mind to the Buddha as your teacher, the Dharma as your path and the Sangha as your community of spiritual friends. That’s the true meaning of taking refuge and the way we should perceive the Three Jewels. We take refuge out of love for the teacher, the teaching and our companions. By means of this endeavor, we begin to explore and reveal our Buddha nature.
How long will we take refuge? Until we are enlightened. At that point, we will no longer need to take refuge externally. We’ll actually embody the objects of refuge. The notion of taking refuge is transcended when you become enlightened. That’s the general meaning of taking refuge as defined in the Buddha’s teachings.
In the special terminology employed in the Vajrayana, the inner objects of refuge are called the guru, deva and dakini or the lama, yidam and khandro and are referred to as the Three Roots. According to the inner tantra, we can distinguish three levels; externally we take refuge in the Three Jewels, internally we take refuge in the Three Roots and secretly we take refuge in the rtsa, rlung and thig-le, or the channels, winds and essence elements of the body.
To unite subject and object requires effort, so you must generate some activity when going for refuge in the most external sense. However, from the Dzogchen point of view, there is what is known as “refuge without effort.” This is also known as the ultimate or most secret object of refuge which is to take refuge within one’s own true nature of mind, to abide in the union of emptiness and clarity. To do this, we need a sense of being very close to the objects of refuge and to feel the energy of love and happiness in that relationship.
As sentient beings, we do not live in harmony with our original nature. Having wandered for a long time in samsara, we are unfamiliar with the truth. Enamored by our projections, we do not have much insight into our own mental events. Through actions based in dualism we separate ourselves from the true nature and become confused and deluded. In one way, taking refuge is returning to your own home, to the essence of who you really are, so you can learn how to be at ease here. Of course you can come and go as you please, it’s just that you’ve finally arrived at your permanent address. Knowing where you live inspires great confidence and joy, freedom beyond doubt and the cycle of hopes and fears. You have realized the ultimate state of democracy!
This is the prayer to say when you take refuge:
DI ZUNG CHANG CHUB NYING PO MA THOB BAR LAMA KON CHOG SUM LA KYAB SU CHI
From now until attaining the heart of enlightenment, I take refuge in the Lama and the Three Jewels.
Initially, the objects of refuge appear to be external. This is the ground and foundation. At first we need to get oriented on the ground, the earth; then we can begin to move. Do not just gaze off into the sky. We must learn to combine the realities of the sky and earth together; we cannot just deal with one half of the world. If you fixate on the sky you will stumble and hurt your self.
Taking refuge is important. All of the Buddha’s teachings are contained within the practice of taking refuge. What exactly did the Buddha teach? All his teachings relate directly to the realities of the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha. The whole teaching is subsumed by these three topics! The Three Jewels are the embodiment of his entire communication. It is necessary to open ourselves with joy and confidence, to make an intimate, heartfelt connection with the objects of refuge, and then maintain this bond throughout all our daily activities.
The great master Atisha came to Tibet around the 11th century. Externally, his foremost practice was taking refuge. He recited the refuge formula all of the time and offered this teaching to many Tibetans. Because he chanted these lines constantly, many people thought this was all he knew. So they called him the Refuge Teacher. But long before Atisha came to Tibet, he already understood all of the Buddha’s teachings. Moreover, he knew many of the sciences of his time. He was the headmaster of Vikramashila monastic university which was like a twin to Nalanda. Given all of that, why did he focus on the refuge? Because he was fully aware of its importance in firmly establishing sentient beings on the ground of practice. Therefore, in communicating with the Tibetan people, Atisha emphasized the supreme virtue of taking refuge.
Another famous Tibetan master who lived around the 15th century, was a renowned Nyingma yogi whose name was Grub-thob Than-stong rGyalpo whose name means “the king of empty land.” Having constructed one hundred and eight iron bridges spanning big rivers throughout Tibet, he was also known as the “Iron Bridge Builder.” Modern scientists have investigated his work and believe that he was the first man to build iron bridges on such a scale. He was also a famous
terton, who sported a long white beard and top-knot. He is depicted holding a vase and an iron chain in his right hand. Nobody knows how he was paid or what sort of techniques he used, but the bridges have not rusted, and some of these structures are still in use. Even the communist regime has expressed their appreciation of his efforts, citing him as one of the only practitioners who actually worked for the common welfare. They like to promote him as an
example of their socialist philosophy. His main teachings and practice consisted of taking refuge and reciting the six-syllable mantra of Avalokitesvara. He also added one more to the three objects of refuge–the Lama–so that it now reads: I take refuge in the Lama, the Buddha, the Dharma and Sangha. This style of taking refuge grew very popular, with the result that all of the lay people in Tibet now say, “I take refuge in the Lama and the Three Jewels.”
According to the Vajrayana, these Three Roots, Three Jewels and Three Objects of Refuge are all present in the form of Guru Padmasambhava. The body of Guru Padmasambhava represents the Sangha. His speech represents the Dharma. The realization state of Guru Padmasambhava represents the Buddha. In this way Guru Rinpoche is the embodiment of the Three Jewels as well as the Three Roots. Guru Padmasambhava is our root teacher, like the lama. The realization state of Guru Padmasambhava, his love, compassion, kindness and wisdom, all represent the deity or yidam. His beneficial activities for all sentient beings of the ten directions and three times are known as dakinis, while those aspects which continue to protect and remove obstacles, are known as dharmapalas. In a very simple and convenient way, Guru Rinpoche alone is enough to take as our object of refuge.
THE REFUGE TREE
In the space before you, visualize that there is a very beautiful lake, called Danakosha. The water is clean, cool and soothing. It is surrounded by beautiful meadows, trees, hills and mountains. Right in the center of Danakosha Lake is the Wish-Fulfilling Tree. It appears like a large lotus with five branches, one in each of the directions, including the center. It has many different flowers, leaves and numerous small branches and twigs. Each flower
and leaf has a beautiful fragrance that pervades in all directions, bringing peace and happiness to sentient beings. The flowers also radiate light. Guru Padmasambhava is seated on the central lotus upon sun and moon disks in the royal relaxation posture as you see in thangkas, embracing his consort, the Wisdom Dakini, Yeshe Tshogyal. This form is sometimes known as Guru Padmasambhava Vajradhara. Both figures are radiating the light of the five wisdom colors. Their presence is full of love, skillful means and compassion for all living beings. They are looking right at you and smiling. Guru Padmasambhava and Yeshe Tshogyal are not solid form bodies, but wisdom-light bodies, like rainbows.
On the branch in front of Guru Padmasambhava is Buddha Shakyamuni. On the right side of Buddha Shakyamuni is the past Buddha, Dipankara. On his left side is the future Buddha, Maitreya. All three Buddhas are seated on lotuses surmounted by moon disks, radiating wisdom lights and regarding you compassionately with a half-smile.
On the branch to the right of Guru Padmasambhava are all the Bodhisattvas like Avalokitesvara, Manjusri, Vajrapani and Akashagarbha. All these great Bodhisattvas are compassionately smiling at you, wearing different colored silk Sambhogakaya robes, long hair, and jeweled crowns. They are a display of wisdom.
On the branch to the left of Guru Padmasambhava, visualize all the great arhats like Ananda, Kashyapa, Sariputra, Maudgalyayana, Mahakashyapa and Subhuti. They all have monks robes and regard you with a half-smile. On the branch behind Guru Padmasambhava, are all the Dharma teachings of the nine yanas. Each text is magically selfreciting and luminous. The different self-sounding voices of the vowels and consonants radiate wisdom light. This represents the Prajnaparamita teachings which are also known as the Mother of All the Buddhas.
In the sky above Guru Padmasambhava, visualize the whole Dzogchen lineage of the Nyingma School. There are many, many great masters, like the twenty-five students of Guru Padmasambhava and the eight Vidydharas. From the root teachers all the way up to Samantabhadra, all are sitting in a rainbow in the sky, radiating wisdom-light and lineage blessings while smiling at the practitioner.
Between the branches, in the forks, all the other wrathful and peaceful deities, Buddhas and Mahaherukas surround Guru Padmasambhava, and below them are all the different dharmapalas. The herukas are beings like Vajrakilaya, Hayagriva, Yangdak and Shincho Heruka. The peaceful deities are the Dhyani Buddhas such as Amitabha and Vairocana. The most powerful and special dharmapala of the Dzogchen teachings is Mama Ekagrati. She is standing in front of the lineage in the lake, surrounded by many other dharmapalas, like Rahula, Dorjeloka and Mahakala, all radiating wisdom light and ready to remove the obstacles and obscurations of practitioners. They are on duty twenty-four hours a day like the Fire Department, ready for action as soon as you dial the hotline. All these objects of refuge are aspects of the lineage teacher, Guru Padmasambhava.
The refuge tree comes right out of the center of the lake. There are also many beautiful birds and swans singing Dharma songs and dancing, making every kind of gesture and movement expressing love, peace and bliss. They are also performing the mudras of all the different teachings of the Buddhadharma. There are beautiful animals in the meadowlands and valleys and many different trees and flowers. In the sky there are rainbows, celestial voids, beautiful
clouds and small fogs rising. That is the visualization. It is said that the moment you think of it, it should bring peace and happiness to your mind. We should take refuge in front of this tree with deep respect, devotional longing, happy thoughts and the Three Homages honoring the body, speech and mind. The gesture of respect pertaining to the body is prostration. The gesture of respect in honor of speech is the chanting of words such as these refuge
lines. The attitude of respect honoring the mind consists of devotion, confidence and happiness. While prostrating, it is also good to visualize that every single sentient being is doing prostrations with you. In the teaching, it is said, at your right side is your father and on your left side is your mother. You are surrounded by your friends. Even your enemies are doing prostrations and taking refuge. With this thought in mind, we should chant these lines.
Taking refuge is a very important practice for all Buddhists, whether Hinayana, Mahayana or Vajrayana. Every Buddhist practitioner should take refuge. All Three Jewels are embodied in the person of the lama. The lama is no other than the Three Jewels. With joy, a warm feeling of closeness and deep confidence, take refuge in the Lama, the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha. Visualize all the buddhas, bodhisattva and lineage masters, the entire
collection of Dharma texts, the Noble Sangha, and the supreme emanation of all the Buddhas of the three times, in the space directly before you. Guru Padmasambhava appears surrounded by wrathful and peaceful Buddhas in union as well as male and female bodhisattvas. Each one is distinguished by a specific form, color, mudra, and expression, yet each represents true love, the fullness of compassion and non-dual wisdom, radiating a host of beams in all
directions. The entire assembly is welcoming you into the family of enlightened beings. You experience a warm, loving feeling, with the faith of confidence in the refuge objects from the bottom of your heart, so that you are moved to say, “From now until attaining the heart of enlightenment, I take refuge in the Lama and the Three Jewels.” The commentary reads; Thus, with prostrations, recite as much as one can. Recite the refuge mantra at the same time that you do prostrations.
Prostrations serve as an antidote to pride and arrogance while instilling respect, gentleness and appreciation. Begin standing with your hands held together at the heart center. This gesture is called phyagya, in Tibetan, which translates as mudra in Sanskrit. This particular mudra is called the “lotus
blossom mudra.” It is neither fully open nor completely closed; it’s like a bud just before it blooms. Hold this to your heart center. Mudras are symbols and this one indicates that we’re opening our heart, which is full of love, compassion, devotion, and confidence. By placing this opening bud at the center of your chest, you symbolize the opening heart. Now, move this mudra up to your crown chakra, and chant, “Namo Buddhaya,” Then
bring it down to your speech center, saying “Namo Dharmaya.” Return the mudra to the heart center once again, chanting “Namo Sanghaya.” Then bow down.
There’s two kinds of prostrations: short ones and long ones. The short prostration requires you to touch five points to the ground: the forehead, two palms, and two knees. Do this three times. Besides chanting the refuge formula, you can also do the bodhicitta mantra at the end of each prostration.
To do long prostrations, begin by touching the five points to the ground, and then stretch out to your full length with your arms and legs extended fully upon the ground. In either case, begin and end each prostration by standing with your feet close, holding the lotus blossom mudra at your heart center.
The Generation of Bodhicitta
DA NE ZUNG TE KHOR WA MA TONG BAR MA GYUR SEM CHAN KUN GYI PHAN DE DRUB
From now until samsara becomes empty, I shall accomplish the benefits and happiness of all sentient parent beings.
The third section of the ngöndro practice is the generation of bodhicitta. Although each part of the ngöndro has great significance, the bodhicitta aspiration is particularly important. It allows us to see that every sentient being is special. In the view of true bodhicitta, there is no partiality or prejudice. No one is worthless, nobody is higher or lower, everyone is valuable and beautiful. You don’t attach to transient manifestations which may appear ugly, bad or unimportant.
Without bodhicitta there is no buddha, no bodhisattvas, and no enlightenment. There is only confusion. All that remains are ego games in a realm of selfish involvement. If you don’t have bodhicitta you are not actually taking refuge even if you go through the motions. There is no reality to this type of practice. To sincerely take refuge in the Three Jewels and feel close to the truth they embody, you must have bodhicitta. Without it, your efforts are forced, uptight and meaningless. With it, we acquire skillful means; we become kind and gentle and our practice becomes more powerful, beneficial and beautiful.
When the Buddha Shakyamuni was alive, there was a famous king known as Prasenajit who ruled much of northern India from his capital in Sravasti. He was very devoted to the Buddha but didn’t have a lot of time to put into the practice because of all of his worldly duties. His heart was with the Buddha, but being preoccupied with external affairs, he couldn’t connect too deeply with the Dharma. This made him worry. So one day he asked the Buddha what to do about it. The Buddha said, “If you can observe just one practice, you will be applying yourself all of the time.’
“Oh, and what is that?” asked the King.
“The bodhicitta,” said the Buddha. “You must bring bodhicitta into each of your daily activities, whether you are standing, walking, sitting, or sleeping. While you’re governing the kingdom or wherever you are, if you keep bodhicitta in your heart, it will transform all of your actions into the practice of the Dharma.”
What is the meaning of bodhicitta? It is commonly translated as the mind or thought of enlightenment but more specifically, it stands for the union of love, compassion and wisdom. Love means that you have a warm feeling of kindness toward every single sentient being. Compassion means that when you see any of these loved ones having difficulties, you immediately do whatever you can to help comfort or release them. This is compassion. Wisdom is quite different, but must always be combined with love and compassion. Love and compassion are wonderful and good, but without wisdom, you can’t come up with what sentient beings really need.
Wisdom involves learning to apply love and compassion with skill, courage and commitment, free of ego-clinging. Ego-clinging tends to turn love and compassion into negative emotions which are inherently frustrating. Eventually, you can no longer stand it and you’re knocked to the ground by attempting to practice love and compassion without wisdom. So wisdom is indispensable. Another name for it is emptiness. Love and compassion equalize in emptiness and
from there you can conduct more powerful forms of love and compassion. Continually adjust your efforts in relation to the beings who are to be served, and transform any tendency to cling to phenomena. These are basic wisdom activities inseparable from the love and compassion of bodhicitta. All beings are special and we all share common goals. This is the basis on which to begin the practice of bodhicitta. We are all very much the same. I want happiness, joy
and peace and do not appreciate being hurt by anyone. In the same way, all other sentient being prefer happiness, joy and peace. We share the same fundamental desires and have a common ground. There’s no difference between any of us at these levels, so in evaluating the real situation, we must learn to acknowledge the equality of ourselves and all others. This is a vital consideration. Sometimes it is difficult to have this attitude, as emotions and old habit patterns do not support us in this effort and conjure more ego-tricks in our mind. To seriously begin, we must be aware of these obstacles and continue to practice, mindful of the equality of all beings.
Exchanging practice is another bodhicitta application, also known as tong-len. In this exercise we give our peace and joy to others and remove their pain and suffering. As your mental capabilities grow and you’re a little more unified in yourself and established in the reality of the bodhicitta, you will have many opportunities to exchange your happiness for the sufferings of others.
When you grow strong in applying the exchanging practices, the third stage of cultivating bodhicitta is considering that others are more dear than your own self. Every sentient being develops according to their own karma, but given the opportunity, the mental attitude of bodhicitta can become so strong that you learn to feel that others are more important than yourself. This completely reverses our present habit of ego-clinging.
These are the three primary aspects of bodhicitta practice. In the beginning we need to expand our capacity for love, compassion and wisdom. Fully opening to this opportunity is very important. To bring the beauty of love, compassion and wisdom to others, we have to open our heart right away. If we don’t do this now, we will be shut down today, tomorrow and the day after tomorrow, on through the years. Open the door to love, compassion and wisdom now, immediately, according to your capacities.
Opening this door to all beings will not decrease your inner peace and happiness, rather it will expand the joy and sense of well-being in your life. Caring enough to love well, will initiate a completely new vision of the world. Presently, we’re only looking at it from one side of the coin; that’s how it is here in samsara. When we develop bodhicitta in our mind, we begin to see the whole panorama. The entire universe arises with a sense of great openness, joy, and peace. We learn to relax. The bodhicitta attitude creates such a beautiful atmosphere that everyone becomes your friend and you feel at home wherever you are; you’re never a stranger. Beauty follows wherever you go.
Bodhicitta brings a new understanding of the world. This is the perfect place for you to learn. The text says, “From now until samsara becomes empty, I shall accomplish the benefit and happiness of all sentient beings.” You have finally found a permanent career; you don’t have to worry about losing this job! It’s going to last forever, so you may as well do it with joy, inspiration, vision and a peaceful heart. In Sanskrit, practitioners of the bodhicitta
are called bodhisattvas. Sattva means one who is courageous in relation to the pursuit of enlightenment. Courage is primary. To carry the bodhicitta, we must know its value and importance, but to continue to develop it we must have both courage and commitment. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that the moment you begin to practice the Dharma, everything will become simple, and be easily taken care of. Life does not instantly become a pure land or an eternal grooving on a Sunday afternoon!
To practice the Dharma does not mean running away from samsara. Since we are already engaged in this world, we should observe everything closely. Until we begin to practice, we’re always trying to hide, trying to run away. This is futile because we always end up unhappy. By practicing the Dharma we can begin to be free in this world. We can engage it creatively. Look closely, discover the meaning, the inner pattern so that you don’t have to run and hide all of the time.
This doesn’t mean we should settle for simply enduring samsara and being abused. Therefore Buddha encouraged us to be brave and committed to our own enlightenment. When we do this, everything is transformed and purified. We learn to move with the situation, full of joy, vision and confidence, whether here or in the bardo. With this understanding, we are able to enjoy and appreciate our position. The future Buddha Maitreya teaches that this realization lets us move from life to life as if we were strolling from one garden to another, from park to park.
First we considered the four attitudes that reverse the mind, the four thoughts of renunciation which bring a clear understanding of samsara. Then we talked about taking refuge. Together, these summarize the first teachings of Buddha Shakyamuni. These are known as the foundation or ground teachings and are primarily associated with the Hinayana vehicle although they lead all the way to the Vajrayana. In this third section, we have focused on the bodhicitta, the essential teaching of the Mahayana. These three practices serve as the basis for the Vajrayana teachings. The practice is structured in this order to develop our understanding step by step, in a natural way.
THIRD: The Accumulation of Merit—Mandala Offering
Now we’re going to examine a section of the ngöndro called mandala practice. The first two sections represent Hinayana and Mahayana levels of instruction. Mandala practice corresponds to Vajrayana teachings. Mandala is a Sanskrit term which has several meanings and can be understood on various levels. Mandala has two roots: man means mind and dala refers to a circle, as well as to maintain. The term indicates a primary pattern reflected through various techniques which help us maintain our minds in a dynamic balance. This is popularly expressed through diagrams symbolizing the state of full realization which are used as supports for meditation and visualization.
In Vajrayana Buddhism, there are many different types of mandalas. They may be visualized, painted on a thangka, a temple wall, or drawn on paper. Sand mandalas are created for various purposes, and there are even some three-dimensional ones. Regardless of the specific style, they all represent the mandala
of awakening to the one true nature. By looking at the relationships that comprise the mandala, by meditating and concentrating on the meanings it embodies, one is enriched and illumined by the light of primordial wisdom. What is expressed externally through these symbols is to be understood inwardly. Each line and color used in a mandala relates to a different aspect of mind and awareness. That’s why there’s such a rich display of form and energy in thangka art; it is an emblem of primordial awareness. This is a general explanation of the mandala principle.
The mandala we use in the ngöndro practice is called an offering mandala although it is also referred to as the wisdom mandala. By making mandala offerings we begin accumulating merit and wisdom. Merit energy is necessary to actualize our Buddha nature. To understand why this is so, consider how everything
develops according to the quality of our activities. Our karma echoes back to us through our experiences. This is consistently true. It never varies, or gets things mixed up. All change proceeds on the basis of specific causes and conditions. The first movement gives rise to the second, effects follow causes and in turn become causes for similar effects in the future. Events manifest continuously, one after another.
There are many other ways to understand mandala. The entire physical cosmos is part of a basic, naturally existing mandala. This cosmic mandala contains all phenomena. The luminosity aspect of the true nature gives rise to all observable qualities as well as the wisdoms; everything is complete within this
great circle, nothing is missing. This natural configuration is the site of the manifestation and transformation of all things, continually displaying new patterns. The ceaseless activity of the cosmic mandala pervades the universe. In the Vajrayana, this is known as the basic, spontaneously inherent mandala. A second form of this mandala is known as the wisdom mandala, and this refers to the primordial nature of mind. The true nature is already perfect, the two accumulations of merit and wisdom are primordially complete; there’s nothing to be added or taken away, there’s nothing we have to establish or purify. Love, compassion, wisdom, understanding, knowledge, all these beautiful qualities are fully present. Everything we say, feel, and think appears within the perfect wisdom mandala of true awareness. Even external phenomena arise within the radiance of this mandala. It is the source mandala for all vision, insight, compassion and beneficial activities. It is called complete because there is nothing missing. It remains exactly as it is all the time, regardless of the transitions and changes in the external or internal environments. By knowing this mandala clearly, you can understand the subtle working of phenomenal
relationships and discover the true nature of all things. This level of vision is developed through regular meditation and practice. Like ascending a staircase or a ladder, you will progressively gain insight into all forms and aspects of the world through the mandala principle. This is known as the wisdom mandala or the mandala of the path.
By understanding the complete wisdom mandala, you connect with the primordial nature. This is the third level of mandala and is known as the awakened mandala. You see the entire universe as a display of the three vajra states: vajra body, vajra speech and vajra mind. Whatever you see is the indestructible display of the wisdom body and whatever you hear, whether words or other sounds, are all forms of the indestructible speech of the Buddhas.
All manifestations of space and awareness reveal the deathless nature of the mind of all the Buddhas. When you perceive things in their wholeness and totality, that is a vision of the awakened mandala. By contemplating the true nature through the mandala we can understand all aspects of realization. Our meditation becomes free of dualistic notions such as meditation and meditator and we are enlightened to the singularity at the root of appearances through the mandala of awakening.
Buddhahood is the embodiment of love, compassion and wisdom. We have to realize that this is our true nature. In order to awaken such an understanding in our lives we require competent assistance and auspicious conditions. When the right causes and conditions come together there’s no need to be in doubt about actualizing the fruit. You will definitely achieve the right result if your practice is empowered with the appropriate causes and conditions. You
will reap exactly what you have planted. If you consider it, you already have the perfect cause, which is your Buddha nature. Now we have to manifest supportive conditions through the accumulation of merit. Buddha refers to these positive activities as the six paramitas. Skillfully applying the paramitas, we can merge all our activities with the primordial nature of mind. This is the way to cultivate our buddha-seed, so that our Buddha nature flourishes and blossoms into Buddhahood.
Among the six paramitas, the first is called generosity, or in Sanskrit dana paramita, which translates as “the practice of transcendental generosity.” Generosity means giving and sharing. Why do we need to give and share? To counter the habit of ego-clinging, which is always grasping, always holding on or holding back. Through the practice of generosity we’re loosening that tendency, releasing that tightness and making everything flow more smoothly so that this openness is available to everyone.
When you offer mandala, visualize Guru Padmasambhava as the embodiment of all of the Buddhas, the Dharma and the Sangha, or of all gurus, devas and dakinis. Feel deeply into the presence of Guru Rinpoche, Buddha Shakyamuni, Tara, and all of the enlightened beings who appear before you, and then make the mandala offering.
Understand this offering as a gift to all enlightened beings and chant the following lines:
TSHE RAB KUN GYI LU DANG LONG CHOD PAL TSHOG NYI DZOG CHIR KON CHOG SUM LA BUL
The bodies, enjoyments, possessions, and glories Of the succession of all my lifetimes I offer to the Three Jewels, In order to complete the two accumulations.
The mandala is a complete and total offering. Nothing is held back. It is a gift in which you really open your heart and share that fullness with all sentient beings without reservations. You share everything, not only your possessions or earthly things, but the entire universe, including all the
galaxies, the sun, moon and stars, and the earth itself. Offer everything internal as well; all sentient beings, especially your own body, speech and mind. And not simply the vehicle of this lifetime, but “the bodies, enjoyments, possessions, and glories of the succession of all my lifetimes.” Think about all
while making the mudra which symbolizes these things and then do the visualization. This is called the simple mandala mudra with five points: a center and four directions symbolizing the whole universe. The abhidharma explains that our world system has four continents situated in the four directions around
Mt. Sumeru. This is symbolized by the basic mandala mudra, but when visualizing this you can also imagine the sun in the east and the moon in the west. This is known as the seven-point mandala offering and it is the briefest form. More detailed versions such as the twentyone point, twenty-three point, the thirty-seven point mandala and others may include whole sadhanas and prayers.
The mandala mudra has a lot of meanings. On the external level, it symbolizes the cosmology which the Buddha presented in the abhidharma. Inwardly it symbolizes the five active organs; eye, ear, nose, tongue and body, as well as the five consciousnesses and their five objects; form, sound, fragrances, flavors and feelings. Further, there’s five elements, five psycho-physical aggregates, five colors, and five poisons. On a deeper level, there are the five wisdoms. In the Vajrayana teachings, all of this is called the vajra body. When we look at the vajra body, it has five points; two legs, two arms and a head. This symbolizes and contains the whole universe, and is realized according to your understanding and the strength of your meditation. So the mandala is an all-inclusive offering. You’re giving to all of the buddhas, bodhisattvas, dakas, dakinis, and arhats, until there is nothing left to be offered. By
including it all, the entire universe, you too, are completely transformed. Make this offering again and again. To practice mandala in the most common way, hold the mudra, chant the verses and then make the offering. This is a form of generosity practice but it also contains the other five paramitas. To continually abide in that transcendental understanding is known as discipline or morality, the second paramita. To be courageous in your commitment so that it is a steady path, requires tolerance or patience. If your practice is full of love and joy, you have aroused the
joyful effort paramita. To clearly visualize the objects of refuge, including all the buddhas and bodhisattvas, and contemplate the profound meaning behind the mudra without losing your focus, is the practice of transcendent concentration. Keep your mind on the target. To understand all of this as a display of the true nature, an ongoing manifestation of the wisdoms, without holding or grasping, is the practice of transcendental wisdom. Mandala practice enables us to perform all six paramitas at once. This is an example of the skillful means available through the Vajrayana teachings. There is no need to separate
the paramitas, or think, “Today I’ll practice generosity, tomorrow discipline, and next year I’ll practice patience.” We can merge them all together into one practice which is whole and continuous in or out of meditation.
The more complex mandala offerings involve the use of a ritual mandala plate which may be made of various materials. Metals such as bronze, copper, brass or silver are popular. If you can afford solid gold, or one ornamented with diamonds, rubies and emeralds, that is better yet. Use the best one you can afford. If you are a poor wandering yogi and haven’t been able to acquire anything fancy, you can use stones,
ceramic tiles or even smooth pieces of wood. Make the offering material of whatever your situation allows, but in these modern times, many of you have access to beautiful glass tears, polished or semi-precious stones, jewels and metals, cardamom seeds, or grains like washed rice, which may be gently
sprinkled with saffron-colored water, and other nice things. The mandala plate symbolizes the ground of the universe, as well as the alaya, the eighth consciousness or “subconscious storehouse” where all of our habit patterns are kept intact. We’ve dumped a lot of junk in that closet and it needs to be cleaned up. Well, through the mandala practice, the clean-up will begin.
Having prepared saffron-colored water, dip the tip of the ring finger of your right hand into it and transfer this drop to the center of the mandala plate which is held in the left hand. Rub the mandala plate with the inside of your bare right wrist, three times in a clockwise direction. This symbolizes the cleaning up of your subconscious which actually comes about through the power of the accumulation of merit and the practice of the six paramitas. After
this, use your right hand to take the offerings which have already been washed and prepared and arrange them on the plate in the form of the seven-point mandala as you begin chanting the verses. When the arrangement is complete, offer it up to the objects of refuge with both hands. Having chanted the verse, lower the plate and tilt its contents back into the cloth on your lap. Repeat this again and again. That’s the basic form of mandala practice.
If you have time and want to do something more elaborate, you can create various mandalas which involve visualizing the body, speech and mind, the five aggregates, and everything else in the universe. With all this in mind, make the mandala offering. Mandala is an extremely simple but special Vajrayana technique for the accumulation of merit, which is a very necessary and important aspect of the path.
The first time that Gampopa came to meet Milarepa, he was told to wait for about two weeks. Milarepa didn’t usually do this kind of thing to his students. As an old man, he was often hanging out in his cave and would casually meet whoever came to see him. But this time, he postponed the meeting for awhile. The day finally came and they met in the open air outside the cave. Milarepa sat upon a big boulder. Gampopa made prostrations and approached respectfully, offering gold and tea leaves. Milarepa put them aside and asked, “What is your name?”
Gampopa said “Sodnam Rinchen.” Sodnam translates as merit and rinchen means very precious.
When Milarepa heard this he mumbled the name a number of times, and finally said, “You have a very good name. Merit dispels obstacles and transforms ignorance so that you can actualize enlightenment and become precious to everyone. Merit is one of the two accumulations, the other being wisdom. When the
accumulations of merit and wisdom are complete, you will become precious to all sentient beings.” He paused and looked at the things Gampopa had placed before him. “I see that you offer me gold and tea leaves, but for an old man like myself, gold is not really a good friend, and I know that we aren’t going to get along. Leave here with it while you can, before we get upset at each other; please take it back. And tea is really good, I like tea, but I don’t have a pot to make it in, so I really can’t use that either; please take the tea too, thank you.” For Gampopa, all of this was an indication that in order to achieve enlightenment he would need to accumulate a lot of merit!
That was Milarepa’s first message to Gampopa, but it applies to everyone. Those who want to achieve enlightenment for the sake of all beings must strive to accumulate merit. In the effort to dispel obscurations and reveal our Buddha nature, merit energy makes a big difference. Merit arising from virtuous actions is the source of supportive conditions necessary to actualize our Buddha nature. We have the cause, but we need the special assistance of merit energy to get enlightened. There’s a famous quotation by Nagarjuna, “Awakening to the dharmakaya is the result of the accumulation of wisdom, awakening to the rupakaya comes from the accumulation of merit.’
Positive activities such as generosity, discipline, compassion, tolerance and concentration, which involve concepts and the exercise of speech, thought or motion, are all considered part of the accumulation of merit. The accumulation of wisdom is beyond all activity; the mind simply relaxes in the primordial
sphere, bright within the fullness of the Buddha nature. Activity applies to motion in the mundane world, to the relative changes which appear on the surface. But the surface itself is only an aspect of a deeper level, so it doesn’t make much sense to separate things too much. We need both merit and wisdom and there is no need to isolate these aspects or swing back and forth, alternately accepting one and rejecting the other. We have to embrace the totality and bring all action into the sphere of enlightenment. This is why we need the two accumulation practices.
Mandala offerings accumulate merit through the observance of the first four paramitas; through mental concentration we begin to accumulate wisdom and actualize our Buddha nature. After making offerings, meditate for a moment on Guru Padmasambhava and all the lineage masters. Then simply relax in the natural state without holding to any particular thought or image. Allow every activity to transform into the free play of the true nature. This is the accumulation of wisdom. By merging the two, we are practicing the union of the two accumulations. In truth, merit and wisdom are never separate from each other, so to practice in this way reflects the nature of their non-dual union.
Accumulation practices are really necessary. The true nature is like a mirror which reflects relative, conditional appearances. The phenomenal level is a reflection of the true nature. That’s why Buddha taught that form is emptiness, and emptiness is form; they are never really separate from each other. We want to know the true nature as it is in its entirety not just a little corner of it. Without depreciating or exaggerating, we must discover it as it is.
Therefore it is important to combine the accumulation of merit and wisdom through meditation on the true nature. Conjoined with wisdom, the merit accumulated by acts of generosity, love, compassion and bodhicitta, resonates with the primordial nature until it almost begins to shine. A very famous
Dzogchen quotation says, “Awareness of the primordial state comes about through the practice of the accumulations.” Even the highest Dzogchen teachings pointing beyond activity and effort, require some energy in order to accelerate the full, clear and perfect realization of self-originated awareness.
sFOURTH: The Purification of Obscurations-The Meditation of Vajrasattva
Vajrasattva is called the all pervasive sovereign of both the outer and inner tantras. He is also known as the Lord of the Body, Speech, Mind, Qualities and Activities of all the Buddhas. Vajrasattva is the supreme embodiment of the whole tantric mandala and lord of all the buddha families. The buddha families display the aspects of primordial wisdom which pervade the world in every direction. The major radiations are known as the five wisdoms, which are symbolized by the five buddha families.
Vajrasattva is a Sanskrit name. Vajra means “diamond” and symbolizes the innermost essence of love, compassion and wisdom which is indestructible. Sattva is one who is heroic or courageous. The union of wisdom and compassion describes the nature of Vajrasattva and all the buddhas. All of the extraordinary powers and qualities of our Buddha nature derive from this indestructible, vajra-like essence. Those who discover this vajra nature, are enlightened. To practice on Vajrasattva is a reflection on
the external level signifying that we are striving to awaken. On the inner level we are developing unyielding courage, so that in trying to bring a clear understanding of all this to sentient beings, we actually begin to radiate and communicate the transcendental beauty of these qualities.
Having discovered the indestructible courage of bodhicitta, the perfect union of love, compassion and wisdom, or the non-duality of skillful methods of
activity and emptiness-awareness, we can begin to apply ourselves. If this was not our true nature, it would be futile to practice. We would just be wasting our time. Without this vajra essence, all efforts would be completely useless. No matter how much you try to make charcoal white, it will remain black. The indestructible attributes of our true being are hidden behind all these habit patterns. To go beyond them, we must evoke vajra courage and a firm commitment. This is why we need to practice on Vajrasattva as Guru Padmasambhava instructed.
The visualization of Vajrasattva is a support for the realization of our Buddha nature. Why do we need support? Because we are so habituated to our conceptions that we continually relate to the world as if there were an inherently existent dualism of subject and object. We need to work with the mental attitude which characterizes our present experience. When we move beyond duality and merge with Vajrasattva in the true nature as it is, there will no longer be any need for external supports to invoke the intrinsic reality of indestructible courage.
There are two ways we employ this practice. Both are designed to help us discover our hidden Vajrasattva nature. The first is to visualize Buddha Vajrasattva above the crown of your head. This is practicing according to the system of the outer tantras. According to the inner tantras, visualize yourself as having completely merged and become one with Vajrasattva.
These two forms are called visualizing the deity in front of you or mdun-gyi, and self-emanated or dag-kyi, which is to see yourself in the form of the deity. The ngöndro practice makes use of both forms. First, visualize Buddha Vajrasattva one arm’s length above your head, seated on a white lotus with one thousand petals. To be specific, the center of the lotus connects to the central channel via a luminous stalk which runs through the top of the head. Your crown chakra is wide open and surrounded by a halo of light. A white moon disc covers the pollen bed of the lotus, upon which Vajrasattva sits in the vajra posture. Vajrasattva is luminous and semi-transparent. His body is not solid but made of wisdom, loving-kindness and compassion. He has one face, two
arms, two legs, and is a rich white color, shining like a mountain glacier reflecting the light of a thousand full moons. The very embodiment of compassion and wisdom, he is actually no other than Guru Padmasambhava and the heart of all lineage masters, appearing in this sambhogakaya form. Visualize Vajrasattva in union with his wisdom consort, who is known as Dorje Nyema in Tibetan or Vajra Garvi in Sanskrit. In his right hand, he holds a vajra
vertically at the level of his heart center. His left hand is leaning on his hip and holding an upside-down bell. Dorje Nyema is the same color as Vajrasattva and she also has one face, two arms, and two legs. Both of them wear sambhogakaya ornamentation. Her right hand holds a curved knife and in her left is a skullcup filled with wisdom nectar. Her left arm embraces Vajrasattva around his neck. Both are in the primordial state of great blissfulness, radiating the light of wisdom, compassion, love, and peace to beings in all directions. This bliss helps magnetize our power of concentration and deepens our feelings of devotion to the teacher, the teachings, and all sentient beings.
Begin by chanting these lines:
CHI WOR LAMA DOR SEM YER MED PE KU LE DUD TSII GYUN BAB DRIB JANG GYUR
Above the crown of my head is Vajrasattva, Inseparable from the lama. From Vajrasattva’s body a nectar stream descends, Purifying my obscurations. Recite this once and then begin to chant the Hundred Syllable mantra of Vajrasattva. Vajrasattva’s mantra is one of the longer ones. If you’re just
beginning you might say it once, seven, or twenty-one times. If you have time, do a mala, which is 108 mantras. Do even more if you can. While reciting the mantra, hold this visualization. In the heart center of Buddha Vajrasattva, visualize a five-pointed crystal dorje which stands upon a small moon disc. In the center sphere of the dorje there is a small HUM syllable, white in color, bright with wisdom light. Again, the moon, the dorje and
the HUM are not solid objects. The upright vajra is surrounded by the letters of the one-hundred-syllable mantra. Each syllable stands independently and is self-resounding as the garland rotates around the edge of the moon disc. It’s good to visualize this, but if it proves too difficult, don’t worry about it. Everything that is explained in the sadhana is there from the beginning, so with that understanding, you can just go ahead and recite the mantra.
During this practice, do not be too concerned about details such as the precise size of the vajra or the exact number of petals in the lotus. Don’t get too intellectual. Put the analytical scholar business aside, and concentrate with devotion on the warm and loving presence of Vajrasattva and his consort. Practice feeling their blissful immanence. That will take care of everything.
While chanting and visualizing the self-reciting syllables circling clockwise around the moon-disc, the mantra echoes from the hearts of both Vajrasattva and his consort Dorje Nyema. This initiates a blazing forth of love and wisdom energy which arises spontaneously out of their completeness, as white light radiates from their bodies and descends through the halo around your crown chakra into the central channel. This starry nectar is not contained inside the
central channel; your whole body becomes soaked in Vajrasattva’s wisdom light. This light completely purifies all of our obscurations, obstacles, disease, and sicknesses. That’s why Vajrasattva is known as the purification buddha. This is very special. Meditate on the form of Vajrasattva and repeat the mantra as more and more of the luminous nectar descends, filling your chakras and totally purifying all emotional and mental obscurations until eventually your whole body is saturated with the pure energy of wisdom, love and compassion. This is the light of Buddha Vajrasattva. Through the practice, you become similar to him. With this understanding, continue to recite the mantra as much as you can.
Recite it as much as you can and finally, imagine that both Vajrasattva and his consort smile your way and say joyfully, “O noble son or daughter, now you’ve completely purified your obscurations.” Then they both dissolve into a small circle of white light, which enters through your crown chakra and descends through the central channel until it reaches the heart center. At that moment, you are transformed into the Buddha Vajrasattva.
To assume the form of Vajrasattva, you must have an understanding of the mandala of awakening, which means seeing this entire universe as the display of the mandala of Buddha Vajrasattva. All form is recognized as the body emanation of indestructible Vajrasattva. All vibrations, from the sound of the ocean to ambulance sirens, are the song of the indestructible hero communicating his message of true bodhicitta. The open, unobstructed nature of mind and space reveal the adamantine courage of the bodhisattvas. If we have a clear understanding of these three aspects of reality, we can meditate with confidence for a few minutes and then recite one mala of the short mantra which consists of six syllables:
OM VAJRA SATTVA HUNG
If you cannot do all of this as elaborately as I have described, just try to relax without thinking and analyzing. Remember that everything is primordially pure and that it is all arising in the mandala of awakening. Be confident in that understanding as you concentrate on the practice. To analyze or indulge in intellectual activities during a session is a form of doubt and hesitation. Reverberating with negative qualities won’t leave you any energy for meditation. Just apply yourself courageously, with full confidence and devotion. This is the way to connect directly with the healing, cleansing power of indestructible reality.
Recite the six-syllable mantra for as long as you have time, then chant:
OD ZHU DAG NANG DANG DRE RO CHIG GYUR
Vajrasattva melts into light And becomes mingled in one taste With one’s own perceptions.
Finally then, Vajrasattva is dissolved. This means we’re returning to the basic ground of mind and recognizing that everything is a reflection of the primordial source. The phrase, “pure from the beginning, free from all extremes and complexities,” describes the true nature of mind. Everything arises as
a relative transformation of that pure, absolute condition. So when we dissolve the deity, it is like returning back to the original state which is all- pervading. Here there are no longer any divisions into times, directions, outer and inner. There is no partiality in the heart of perfect wisdom. Dissolution in the primordial nature represents a more serious step forward on the profound path of indestructible heroism. It is free of all dualisms such as birth and death or existence and non-existence. All limitations are transcended in the innate condition as we practice merging back into that nature,
relaxing into it. This is known as practicing on the absolute Vajrasattva. Relax your mind and meditate this openness for as long as you have time. If thoughts come up, don’t pursue them; just let them go without suppressing or grasping them. That is known as the great Dzogchen meditation.
FIFTH: The Swiftly Penetrating Blessings of the Guru Yoga
The fifth section of the ngöndro is called the lamai naljor [blamai ‘byor] in Tibetan or Guru Yoga in Sanskrit. Guru and lama express the same meaning in these two languages. Two roots comprise this term: one means full, heavy or rich. The other means “higher one” or “extraordinary one,” which refers to a teacher who embodies the highest realization of love, compassion, and wisdom through awareness of the true nature. One who is wealthy in love and compassion, and heavy with wisdom. In other
words, having awakened to the fullness and power of the bodhicitta realization, he or she has become extraordinary.
According to the Buddha, the teacher must possess two qualities: first, this individual must have a good understanding of the entire Dharma, from the sutra, vinaya and abhidharma levels, up through the tantrayana, plus a working knowledge of all phenomena on the relative levels. The second quality refers
to an understanding of the true nature, and at least some degree of realization of bodhicitta. This is the central message expressed throughout the Buddhadharma. Whether it is stated directly or indirectly, the final goal is reached by awakening to the ultimate meaning of bodhicitta. That’s the bottom line of every teaching, from the Hinayana up through the Vajrayana and Dzogchen. All are designed to awaken us to the absolute bodhicitta, which is also known as the Buddha nature, tathagatagarbha, and buddha-seed. To be a qualified lama or teacher, one must have a fair measure of these two qualities or at best, a complete realization, in which case you would expect a super lama!
The Buddha taught that right relationship with the teacher or lama is really important, for he is the one who connects you to all Buddha’s teachings. He opens the door of the Dharma so you can enter the path of enlightenment. The lama is considered particularly important in the Vajrayana tradition. This is
expressed through the descriptions of the Three Roots or objects of refuge wherein the guru or lama is known as the “root of blessings.” The entire process of realization depends on his or her influence. Without the guru the lineage teachings would not be preserved and transmitted in a fluid, unbroken continuity. If there’s no lama, the teaching situation does not arise. This is why it’s said that the lama is so important. In the inner tantra, it is
stated that the lama is the Buddha, the lama is the Dharma and the lama is the Sangha. He’s considered lord of the entire Vajrayana family. In the process of opening to the truth of the teachings, the lama is invaluable. He puts you into direct contact with the body, speech and mind of the Buddha. Even though there are books, written words alone will not rouse your enlightened nature. Only a master can clarify the true meaning and reveal the transcendent essence of the printed word. A truly qualified teacher has knowledge of many liberating techniques and transmits these with the warmth of the lineage blessings.
The works of the great masters of ancient India and Tibet express the highest regard for the teacher. They’re not just trying to glorify individual beings; they are illuminating a principle. On the basis of personal experience and realization, they are openly acknowledging, for our sakes, that the lama is the only true access to the lineage teachings. Since the times of the Buddha Shakyamuni, those individuals who attain to the highest realization have done so through devotion to a true teacher.
Even if you are a great scholar with knowledge of all of the teachings, if you don’t practice under the auspices of a qualified lineage master, you won’t gain enlightenment. All the schools tell stories of great students who have not yet discovered their Buddha nature because they lack a connection with a qualified guide. Philosophical knowledge alone will not enlighten.
In India, the famous Dzogchen master, Manjushrimitra was originally a teacher at Nalanda University. Academically he was one of the most intellectually developed scholars of his time. But to awaken the pristine awareness of primordial wisdom, he had to link up with a qualified master. He had become blocked at the threshold of awakening and couldn’t go on. Manjushri appeared and told him, “If you want to gain
enlightenment in this lifetime, go see the young Dzogchen master Garab Dorje.” Manjushrimitra received Garab Dorje’s teachings and thereby became enlightened.
Manjushrimitra’s foremost student was Shri Singha, another highly developed scholar who had to meet a qualified master in order to attain full realization. Shri Singha was told by Avalokitesvara, “If you want to be enlightened within this lifetime, you must contact the master Manjushrimitra.” So he went and met Manjushrimitra and received the final instructions which instantly sparked his full awakening to the Dzogchen state.
Naropa was a great Indian scholar who served as the northern gatekeeper at the monastic university of Vikramashila. However, to come to final realization he had to meet his guru. Instructed by a wisdom dakini, Naropa left the monastery and after considerable hardship, finally found Tilopa. At first Tilopa
ignored him, and even seemed to torture him by putting him through twelve difficult and sixteen smaller ordeals before he was finally given the teachings. Most great practitioners do not connect with their gurus for scholarly knowledge. They may even be more educated or widely renowned than their masters. This was the case with Naropa. It required the blessing of Tilopa, however, to bring him to full realization. This is the value in contacting a truly qualified lineage teacher.
Having the good fortune to encounter and recognize this situation, a student should devote himself to the teacher and the teachings with complete trust and confidence. As their minds merge, the devotee comes to the same realization as the teacher, sparkling with the wisdom of all the lineage masters. This is how the teachings have been transmitted right up to the present. And that’s a brief overview of the importance of the lama.
In practicing guru yoga we focus on Guru Padmasambhava, the true embodiment of all of buddhas and bodhisattvas. There have been buddhas in the past and there will be others in the future, but the Buddha of the present is Guru Padmasambhava. To begin the practice, visualize yourself as Vajrayogini and chant these verses:
RANG NYID DORJE NALJOR DUN KHA RU TSAWAI LAMA PEME KUR ZHENG GYUR
Oneself is Vajrayogini and in the sky in front, the root teacher manifests in the form of Padmasambhava.
Vajrayogini is a wisdom dakini, a totally enlightened being, a female Buddha. Why do we visualize ourselves as Vajrayogini? According to the Vajrayana, Vajrayogini represents the profound wisdom or clarity of the true nature which is Prajnaparamita, Samantabhadri, the basic ground or reality of all phenomena. Our absolute condition is reflected in her form. She is known as the Mother of all Buddhas. Enlightenment comes about by knowing our true nature and merging with wisdom. This union will transform ignorance and dispel all darkness. Presently, we have thick mental and emotional obscurations which keep this from happening.
The conception and birth of a buddha child requires that there be a mother, so we invoke the primordial power of our absolute nature through the great mother of transcendent wisdom, Buddha Vajrayogini. She is visualized with one face, two arms
and two legs. Her body color is ruby red, she is naked and semi-wrathful with bone ornaments and a third eye in her forehead. Her right hand holds a curved knife and her left holds a skull cup. A three-pointed katvanga, symbolizing the power of the three wisdoms, lies across her left shoulder. She gazes slightly upward at the guru and wears a necklace of fifty-one skulls. Like Vajrasattva and all the other tantric deities, Vajrayogini is not a substantially existent form but appears in a transcendental body of rainbow-wisdom light standing upon a lotus base surmounted by sun and moon discs. She is leaning to her left, as if about to walk. She tramples a demon under each foot. A halo of wisdom fire surrounds her body while the sun and moon shine in the sky above. This is how we should visualize ourselves.
In the space before us we see Guru Padmasambhava as the root teacher, the embodiment of all buddhas, the dharma, the sangha, all gurus, devas and dakinis. He represents all enlightened masters and possesses all the skillful means which lead to perfect realization of our true nature. Having visualized yourself as “wisdom’, Guru Padmasambhava is “skillful means.” You’re going to merge these two in order to awaken your Buddha nature.
Guru Yoga is the most important practice in the Vajrayana path. The Four Reversals we recite at the beginning of ngondro invoke the blessings of Guru Padmasambhava and develop into Guru Yoga. The essence of ngondro is Guru Yoga, although this practice is not limited to the ngondro. Guru Padmasambhava is known as the Buddha of the Degenerate Era. As the degeneration proceeds, if we invoke his blessings and meditate on Guru Padmasambhava, obstacles can be removed very easily and we will have a realization that can benefit other sentient beings. Therefore, it is very important to do this practice. Always
mingle your mind with the mind of Guru Padmasambhava. Invoke your Buddha Nature in absolute union with Guru Rinpoche all the time. The Nyingma are not the only ones who practice on Padmasambhava. He is the Buddha or Guru for all schools of Tibetan Buddhism, such as the Sakya, Kagyu and Gelugpa. If we read the books, the biographies and lives of the great masters of the different lineages, there is hardly anyone who didn't receive teachings and blessings from Guru Padmasambhava in their visions, dreams or in the state of direct perception. Nearly every one was blessed by him, and thereby came to realization.
In Tibetan Buddhist history, Guru Padmasambhava is the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. He established the first schools of Vajrayana Buddhism in Tibet and blessed every part of the land. It is said in the teachings that there is not even one square inch of ground that was not blessed by Guru Padmasambhava. With the assistance of Wisdom Dakini Yeshe Tshogyal, he hid termas, lineage teachings and ritual objects throughout Tibet, in rocky mountains, in lakes, rivers, trees, in the sky, and many other places. He gave many prophecies and explained how to use the termas to benefit all sentient beings from generation to generation until now.
Guru Padmasambhava is not only for Tibetans. He worked for all sentient beings. For example, among the eight emanations of Guru Padmasambhava, only two occur in Tibet. The rest happen in different parts of the world. He has always been blessing practitioners throughout all of history. As Guru Padmasambhava himself said, "Those who pray with confidence, concentration and bodhicitta are always heard by me."
There are many important reasons to practice on Guru Rinpoche; for the purpose of overcoming degeneration, for the removal of one's own obscurations, as well as to help sentient beings and to bring peace and harmony to the world. Therefore, practicing Guru Yoga is important.
Guru Padmasambhava is visualized with one face, two arms and two legs, seated in the posture of royal ease upon a sun and moon disk. His right hand holds a five pointed vajra while the left makes the equanimity mudra near his navel center. In the palm of his left hand, he holds a skull cup filled with long-life nectar and a small vase filled with blissful amrita. Wisdom light radiates from these objects. Like Vajrayogini, a trident staff or katvanga leans across his left shoulder. Guru Padmasambhava appears in a wisdom body, brilliant with the energy of love and compassion. Wisdom lights radiate in all directions. Feel a very strong sense of presence and closeness between yourself and Guru Padmasambhava. In that disposition, see the entire universe as the mandala of the guru. Recognize that everything is a display of Guru Padmasambhava.
Now, full of confidence, devotion, closeness, warmth and presence, chant the following prayer three times:
DU SUM SANGYE MA LU DU PAI KU TSAWAI LAMA CHOG LA SOL WA DEB DI CHI BARDO SUM DU THUG JE ZUNG DU SUM GYUN CHED MED PAR CHIN GYI LOB
The embodiment of all the Buddhas of the three times, without exception. Most excellent root teacher, I pray to you. In this and future lives, and in the bardo, in these three,
Hold me with your compassion Bless me ceaselessly throughout the three times!
Then chant the mantra of Guru Padmasambhava:
OM AH HUNG VAJRA GURU PEMA SIDDHI HUNG
Do this for as long as you have time, all the while concentrating on Guru Padmasambhava and continuing to visualize yourself as Vajrayogini. At times focus on devotional feelings and opening your heart to the presence of the lama. At other times, generate an appreciative awareness of how precious this relationship is. Shift your concentration to various aspects and feel the resonances of this bond while continuing to recite the prayers. Then begin reciting the Vajra Guru Mantra as many times as you can. Don’t skip or add any syllables to it and chant it to a beautiful tune. Try to recite at least one mala of this mantra per session. When you are done, chant the following lines:
KU SUNG THUG KYI WANG CHIN YONG DZOG THOB
The blessings and empowerments of body, speech, and mind Are completely and perfectly obtained.
While chanting this, visualize three radiant syllables in Guru Padmasambhava’s three places; a white OM at his forehead, a red AH in his speech center, and a blue HUM at his heart. If you find these difficult to visualize, simply imagine white, red and blue lights glowing in those three places. Near the end of the mantra recitation, a small circle of white light flies out like a shooting star from Guru Padmasambhava’s forehead and enters directly into your own, transferring all the body blessings of Guru Padmasambhava and removing your physical obscurations. This light actualizes the nirmanakaya.
From the red syllable AH at Guru Padmasambhava’s throat, a point of red light emanates and enters your speech center, removing all obscurations associated with speech and actualizing the sambhogakaya. A strong blue light emanates from the syllable HUM at the heart of Guru Padmasambhava, penetrating your heart center, transferring the blessings of his wisdom mind. This removes your mental obscurations and actualizes the dharmakaya of Buddhahood. Finally, lights radiate out from Guru Padmasambhava’s forehead, throat and heart. Simultaneously, the lights enter your three centers, transferring the complete blessings of his realization, purifying all residual habits. This fourth radiation actualizes full realization of Buddhahood, which is also known as the svabhavikakaya. Finally, the guru dissolves into light. These phases are a condensed version of the four empowerments.
When you receive the blessings of Guru Padmasambhava, do not expect that he will appear in this colorful costume with a trident, holding a skull cup and dorje and wearing a special hat. But if you practice focusing your love and devotion in this way, you will definitely experience clarity, a sky-like
awareness and a calm, joyful mind. That is the light of Guru Padmasambhava, the first stage of his blessing. Then you can develop higher and higher and really remove obscurations and obstacles. You may even have experiences in visions, dreams or the waking state. But don’t expect that he will appear anything like he does in thangkas. To help sentient beings, Guru Rinpoche works through many differnt forms and mediums.
As the guru dissolves into lights which are absorbed into your three places, chant these words:
VAJRA GURU KAYA WAKA TSITTA SIDDHI HUM
Kaya means body, waka means speech, tsitta means mind, and siddhi in this case, means completed. This means that all spiritual accomplishments are complete.
LAMA OD ZHU RANG THIM YER MED NGANG RIG TONG DON GYI LAMAI RANG ZHAL TA
The teacher dissolves into light, is absorbed into oneself, And becomes inseparable with one’s own state of being. Behold the emptiness-awareness, the true face of the lama!
Guru Padmasambhava dissolves into multi-colored points of light about the size of peas, which shower out of his crown chakra into yours and descend through your central channel, concentrating in your heart center. This symbolizes the union of skillful means and wisdom, which have completely united. You are now
in the domain of absolute truth, the unconditional, ultimate reality of the guru. From this viewpoint, there is no difference between Guru Padmasambhava and Vajrayogini or subject and object. Everything is merged into the singularity of true awareness or rigpa. To let your mind relax in that state is known as “beholding the emptiness-awareness, the true face of the lama,” which is the union of skillful means and wisdom, the merging of guru, dakini, and deity with one’s own non-conceptual awareness.
The guru embodies skillful means, the dakini is wisdom and the yidam is their union. In one session of guru yoga, you can attain union with all Three Roots. Absorbing the guru into oneself, remain in meditation as long as you have time. This is the highest form of meditation and is no different than what is practiced in the Dzogchen or Mahamudra traditions. Relax into this absolute state without succumbing to mental activities. To maintain ourselves in the pure and simple state of our true nature is the highest form of meditation and practice.
Continute to meditate in this way for as long as you can. At the end of the session, when everything arises, hold the vision and observe phenomena from the primordial state; see all things as they are, including your body and identity, as transient forms of reflected light or as the flow of surface waves and tides on the ocean. Observe without grasping or holding on to any of it, let things arise, and let them go. Don’t block the movement of the true nature. Learn to perform all your activities within this awareness. Even if you have a high realization, always respect and appreciate the patterns of phenomenal existence.
Begin the ngondro practices focusing on Guru Yoga. Start by taking refuge and generating bodhicitta briefly, then go to the Guru Yoga and practice it as I said. If you are somehow very busy and don't have enough time, then just do the Seven Line Prayer three or seven times, recite the mantra of Guru Padmasambhava and receive blessings before meditating. Always practice with concentration and confidence. If we do that, there is no need to doubt that we are going to achieve great results.
This completes a brief look at the practice of guru yoga.
SIXTH: The Transference (Phowa)
The sixth section of the ngöndro is the practice of phowa or the transference of consciousness after death. Briefly, we have a body, the power of speech, and the mind. In the common view, mind is the occupant and the body is the residence. On the deeper levels of Buddhist philosophy, the body and speech are both considered temporary residents of the mind. In either case, we’re leasing this home for a short time and the landlord is not very helpful. If anything breaks, you have to fix and pay for it yourself! One way or another, sooner or later, the body and the mind are going to have to separate. We are not going to stay like this forever.
Phowa or transference is relevant because of the inevitability of the body-mind separation. Buddha gave many different teachings on this pivotal transition. Before you leave home, you have to consider the manner of your departure. Should you rent a truck or carry the luggage on your back, as is done all over Asia? Will you go by bus or train, fly coach or hire the space shuttle? And where should you go? Phowa practice is designed to lead the mind to the pure land of the Buddha Amitabha. That’s where we
plan on going. In Sanskrit this is known as ‘Sukhavati’ or in Tibetan as ‘Dewachen’ which translates as great bliss. Buddha Shakyamuni said that this is the place where all enlightened beings reside; Green Tara, White Tara, Avalokitesvara, Guru Padmasambhava and all the buddhas and great bodhisattvas. Knowing this should fill you with confidence and joy, as you contemplate going there yourself. Simply think, “When the time comes, my consciousness will go to Buddha Amitabha’s pure land.”
In preparation for the ejection, there are a number of visualizations involving the movement of syllables in the channels and other exercises. Phowa is an entire system of practices designed to establish this connection so that we can easily transfer our consciousness to the pure land of Buddha Amitabha at death. It is with that intention that we approach this practice as part of the ngöndro.
The simplest application of the phowa is to remain as you normally appear while visualizing Buddha Amitabha one arm’s length above your crown chakra. Imagine your consciousness concentrated in your central channel, which is wide open at the crown. This open window is a direct conduit to the heart of Amitabha.
GONPO OD PAG MED LA SOL WA DEB ZAB LAM PHO WA JONG WAR CHIN GYI LOB
I pray to the protector Amitabha, the Buddha of limitless light
Grant me the blessings to perfect the Transference of Consciousness, in the profound path of Phowa.
Chant these lines while you hold this intention with strength and sincerity. Imagine your consciousness ascending to the heart center of the Buddha Amitabha and then returning. It is not really necessary to visualize consciousness leaving the body. Simply think, “When the time comes, this is what I will do; I am definitely going to transfer my consciousness to the heart center of Buddha Amitabha.” Practicing in this way opens us to this possibility, and prepares the passage for the transference of consciousness to Dewachen. Although it is not mentioned here, you can conclude the practice by envisioning Buddha Amitabha dissolving into light, which is absorbed into your heart center and merges with your awareness. Meditate for a short time in that union.
SEVENTH: Chöd Practice and Dedication Prayers
The seventh and final section of the ngöndro is a combination of the chöd practice and dedication prayers. There’s three lines: DA NI LU DANG LONG CHOD GE TSAR CHE MA GYUR DRO LA PHANG PA MED PAR TANG DRO DON LAB CHEN GEG MED DRUB PAR SHOG Now, my body, possessions, and the source of my virtue, all together, I give without clinging to all beings who have been my parents. May I accomplish great benefits, unobstructedly, for all beings.
What is the meaning of the Chöd? Like Phowa, Chöd is also an elaborate Vajrayana teaching involving a whole system of practices. Chöd means cutting through. What is it you are cutting through? Ego-clinging, self grasping, fear and the holding of dualistic thoughts. To begin this practice, we focus on dualistic thoughts and ego-clinging. This attitude of self-grasping is the root of all our illusory fabrications. It is the source of all of our difficulties. So we cut it immediately, giving ego-clinging a blow to the head.
How do we make this cut? In the disposition of profound equanimity, knowing that our true nature is as vast as the sky. We must have a basic realization of great openness. The unshakeable equanimity of the true nature is beyond hope and intimidation, so be fearless and confident in your approach.
In a sadhana called the “Bellowing Laugh of the Dakinis” by the famous Nyingma master Jigme Lingpa, he wrote
“I am a fearless yogi who practices crazy wisdom activity. Through realization which encompasses samsara and nirvana as equal, I dance and trample upon the demons of ego-clinging and grind samsaric, dualistic thinking into dust.”
With such thoughts, we make a gift of ourselves and share everything that we have, including the body, with all beings without any exceptions or partiality. That’s the way to cut off ego-clinging and the basic idea behind Chöd practice.
The third and last line is a dedication of merit to all beings combined with an aspirational prayer. In English it says: “May I accomplish great benefits, unobstructedly, for all beings.” This aspirational-dedication prayer concludes the whole ngöndro practice, not just the Chöd section. You’re sharing
whatever merit you have accumulated from performing the ngöndro for the joy, peace and complete enlightenment of all beings. You are also expressing an aspirational wish to be a continual source of benefit to all sentient beings until they all reach enlightenment. As Longchenpa says in another prayer, “May I not become bored and tired of accomplishing the benefit of others. By my own tremendous, impartial service to others, may everyone attain Buddhahood together.”
Now I have completely opened the ngöndro practice to you and explained many different aspects of it so that you can begin to engage it with a good understanding of what you are doing. There is one last important point you should know. Each of the major sections is to be practiced one hundred thousand times. The refuge practice, prostrations, generating the bodhicitta, the mandala offering, Vajrasattva’s onehundred-syllable mantra, and the mantra of Guru Padmasambhava are all performed one hundred thousand times. And, of course, as good practitioners you’ll want to add more onto each of those. But it’s not just about numbers. Each time that you practice you should merge your heart and mind with the true meaning of the prayers, visualizations and meditation. That’s the right spirit in which to practice the ngöndro. In this way, it becomes the completion stage practice for all the Buddha’s teachings. This is very special.
In the nineteenth century, the famous Nyingma master Patrul Rinpoche made ngöndro one of his main practices. He was a great Dzogchen yogi, a very highly realized being, and a leading lineage master of his day. Nonetheless, he completed the ngöndro again and again. When you begin, only do as much as you can. You don’t have to finish the accumulations in six months or even a year, but keep it up. Make the ngöndro the main part of your practice and complete it as soon as you can.
Questions and Answers:
Q: The Seven Line Prayer [[[tshig bdun gsol ‘debs]] bzhugs so] appears not to be a part of the ngöndro; do you recommend doing it as part of the guru yoga section anyway?
A: Yes definitely, if your time permits. It is good to include three repetitions of the Seven Line Prayer as part of the ngöndro practice and to follow it with the mantra of Guru Padmasambhava. It can be added into the section of guru yoga after the four lines that begin with DU SUM SANGYE MA LU DU PAI KU. This is very good to do. If you don’t have time to do the whole ngöndro practice, then simply begin with the guru yoga. Visualize yourself as Vajrayogini gazing upon Guru Padmasambhava and then, full of devotion, love, compassion and a feeling of closeness, chant the Seven Line Prayer three times, and recite a mala of the Twelve Syllable Mantra. Do as much as you have time for. Receive the blessings as Guru Padmasambhava dissolves back into the natural state, meditate for a few minutes and dedicate the merit.
Q: How long does it take to go through the whole thing?
A: It depends, but a good average might run about 30-40 minutes. If you put more time into the visualizations, chanting or emptiness meditation, it might be longer. When you
start, don’t engage the practice for a long time, make your sessions short. As you get comfortable with it, you can add more time.
Q: Can you say more about the winds, drops and channels in relation to the inner aspect of refuge?
A: There’s numerous teachings in the Vajrayana, but according to the inner tantras, the channels correspond to the nirmanakaya as do the dakinis, the wind systems correspond to the sambhogakaya as do the deities, and the essence elements of the body are dharmakaya, which also appears in the form of the lama or guru. In the tantric teachings, there are meanings and correspondences at many levels. The channels, winds and essence elements of the body are part of the dynamics of the true nature. Because of them, we are aware of the entire universe of phenomena. Without these three, nothing will arise. They reflect the subtle energy of our true nature which is projected out into many coarser forms and conditions. On the absolute level, the rtsa, rlung and thig-le are no other than the three kayas or the three objects of refuge.
According to Dzogchen, in the ultimate state everything is complete within rigpa or the true nature. Emptiness, clarity and their union are the three kayas, the three roots and the three jewels; rigpa itself embodies everything we’ve just explained: the winds, drops and channels and the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha are all complete within this singularity. It’s sometimes called the one-bindu state or zero condition.