Difference between revisions of "Review: Gelug Mahamudra Eloquent Speech of Manjushri by Zasep Tulku Rinpoche; making the profound and complex meditation method concise and clear"
(Created page with "thumb Drawing on many decades of teaching experience in the west, he distils volumes of knowledge on Mahamudra — the most advanced and significan...") |
|||
| Line 5: | Line 5: | ||
| − | Drawing on many decades of teaching experience in the west, he distils volumes of knowledge on Mahamudra — the most advanced and significant teachings in Vajrayana — into a concise yet comprehensive 300 pages. | + | Drawing on many decades of [[teaching]] [[experience]] in the [[west]], he distils volumes of [[knowledge]] on [[Mahamudra]] — the most advanced and significant teachings in [[Vajrayana]] — into a concise yet comprehensive 300 pages. |
| − | He writes in the same style as he teaches, with a focus on making this vast and deep method easy to digest and comprehend. With the aid of original illustrations from Ben Christian — which include channels and chakras diagrams, beautiful thangkas of Manjushri and other Buddhas, and yoga postures for sitting — Rinpoche compresses centuries of practice | + | He writes in the same style as he teaches, with a focus on making this vast and deep method easy to digest and comprehend. With the aid of original illustrations from Ben [[Christian]] — which include [[channels]] and [[chakras]] diagrams, beautiful [[thangkas]] of [[Manjushri]] and other [[Buddhas]], and [[yoga postures]] for sitting — [[Rinpoche]] compresses centuries of practice |
| − | Buddha Weekly Gelug Mahamudra Eloquent Speech of Manjushri Zasep Tulku Rinpoche book Buddhism | + | [[Buddha]] Weekly [[Gelug]] [[Mahamudra]] Eloquent {{Wiki|Speech}} of [[Manjushri]] [[Zasep Tulku Rinpoche]] [[book]] [[Buddhism]] |
| − | Gelug Mahamudra, Eloquent Speech of Manjushri by H.E. Zasep Tulku Rinpoche, illustrated by Ben Christian. The book is available on Amazon in paperback and will soon release as a Kindle e-Book>> | + | [[Gelug]] [[Mahamudra]], Eloquent {{Wiki|Speech}} of [[Manjushri]] by H.E. [[Zasep Tulku Rinpoche]], illustrated by Ben [[Christian]]. The [[book]] is available on Amazon in paperback and will soon [[release]] as a Kindle e-Book>> |
| − | commentary into fourteen short chapters. Covering everything from the preliminaries — Refuge, Bodhicitta, Mandala offerings, Vajrasattva, Guru Yoga — through to Samatha Mahamudra, Vipassana Mahamudra and finally on to Tantric Mahamudra, Rinpoche empowers the student to advance their practice with the “very heart of Buddha’s teachings.” | + | commentary into fourteen short chapters. Covering everything from the preliminaries — [[Refuge]], [[Bodhicitta]], [[Mandala offerings]], [[Vajrasattva]], [[Guru Yoga]] — through to [[Samatha]] [[Mahamudra]], [[Vipassana]] [[Mahamudra]] and finally on to [[Tantric Mahamudra]], [[Rinpoche]] [[empowers]] the [[student]] to advance their practice with the “very [[heart]] of [[Buddha’s teachings]].” |
| − | There are extensive how-tos and commentaries in this ultimately very practical book, especially the chapters on Samataha and Vipassana meditation. Rinpoche is well-known for the clarity of his in-person teachings on these important methods, and he brings that practicality. Reading this book, has the | + | There are extensive how-tos and commentaries in this ultimately very {{Wiki|practical}} [[book]], especially the chapters on Samataha and [[Vipassana meditation]]. [[Rinpoche]] is well-known for the clarity of his in-person teachings on these important [[methods]], and he brings that practicality. Reading this [[book]], has the “{{Wiki|flavor}}” of receiving a personal [[teaching]] from a [[meditation master]]. |
| − | Also helpful are the four photos and fourteen illustrations meant to assist practice and visualization with deity thangkas, inner body maps (for Tantric Mahamudra) and yogic postures. | + | Also helpful are the four photos and fourteen illustrations meant to assist practice and [[visualization]] with [[deity]] [[thangkas]], [[inner body]] maps (for [[Tantric Mahamudra]]) and [[yogic]] [[postures]]. |
===Related=== | ===Related=== | ||
| − | To read chapter one book excerpt, please see our earlier feature>> | + | To read [[chapter]] one [[book]] excerpt, please see our earlier feature>> |
Paperback now available on Amazon>> | Paperback now available on Amazon>> | ||
| − | Paperback now available in Canada>> | + | Paperback now available in [[Canada]]>> |
| − | Paperback now available in the United Kingdom>> | + | Paperback now available in the {{Wiki|United Kingdom}}>> |
| − | English Paperback now available in Germany>> | + | English Paperback now available in {{Wiki|Germany}}>> |
| − | English Paperback now available in Japan>> | + | English Paperback now available in [[Japan]]>> |
| − | English Paperback now available in Italy>> | + | English Paperback now available in {{Wiki|Italy}}>> |
| − | Who is this book for? | + | Who is this [[book]] for? |
| − | This is a must read for Buddhists of the Gelug tradition, and a should read for many other Buddhists seeking insight into Shunyata (emptiness), or practicing Vipassana or Samatha. | + | This is a must read for [[Buddhists]] of the [[Gelug tradition]], and a should read for many other [[Buddhists]] seeking [[insight]] into [[Shunyata]] ([[emptiness]]), or practicing [[Vipassana]] or [[Samatha]]. |
| − | “The very heart of Buddha’s | + | “The very [[heart]] of [[Buddha’s teachings]]” |
| − | Mahamudra meditation and practice is “at the very heart of Buddha’s teachings,” begins H.E. Zasep Rinpoche in a new book from Wind Horse Press. In his introductory chapter, he explains why Mahamudra is a “need” not a want practice for Buddhists: | + | [[Mahamudra meditation]] and practice is “at the very [[heart]] of [[Buddha’s teachings]],” begins H.E. Zasep [[Rinpoche]] in a new [[book]] from [[Wind Horse]] Press. In his introductory [[chapter]], he explains why [[Mahamudra]] is a “need” not a want practice for [[Buddhists]]: |
| − | + | “[[Mahamudra practice]] slows us down so we can see things as they really are. [[Mahamudra]] reveals the [[Wikipedia:Absolute (philosophy)|ultimate]] [[nature of the mind]], intrinsically [[pure]] and [[empty]] of [[inherent nature]]: [[pure awareness]], {{Wiki|luminous}} and spacious | |
— clarity and cognisance.” | — clarity and cognisance.” | ||
| − | Although Rinpoche covers Mahamudra from the point of view of the Gelugpa tradition, many of the meditations are useful to any Buddhist, of any school. Mahamudra is both an ultimately simple practice, and the pinnacle of Vajrayana practices. Rinpoche explains in chapter 1: ” the actual Gelug technique of Mahamudra is deeply profound, and in particular, the Tantric Mahamudra is supreme.” | + | Although [[Rinpoche]] covers [[Mahamudra]] from the point of view of the [[Gelugpa tradition]], many of the [[meditations]] are useful to any [[Buddhist]], of any school. [[Mahamudra]] is both an ultimately simple practice, and the pinnacle of [[Vajrayana practices]]. [[Rinpoche]] explains in [[chapter]] 1: ” the actual [[Gelug]] technique of [[Mahamudra]] is deeply profound, and in particular, the [[Tantric Mahamudra]] is supreme.” |
| − | ===One question Rinpoche answers (hint, in chapter 9) is an important one:=== | + | ===One question [[Rinpoche]] answers (hint, in [[chapter]] 9) is an important one:=== |
| − | “Why bother taking initiations, doing Tantric practice, doing all these foundation practices, Vajrasattva mantras, Guru Yoga. Why bother doing prostrations, three-year retreats, counting millions and millions of mantras. Why bother? Why not just sit and do the Mahamudra?” | + | “Why bother taking [[initiations]], doing [[Tantric practice]], doing all these [[foundation practices]], [[Vajrasattva]] [[mantras]], [[Guru Yoga]]. Why bother doing [[prostrations]], [[three-year retreats]], counting millions and millions of [[mantras]]. Why bother? Why not just sit and do the [[Mahamudra]]?” |
His answer will surprise many, and clarify for others what they already intuitively grasped. | His answer will surprise many, and clarify for others what they already intuitively grasped. | ||
| − | NOTE: The Sutra Mahamudra content is open for any student. Some of the advanced Tantric practices in the last chapter require initiation. | + | NOTE: The [[Sutra Mahamudra]] content is open for any [[student]]. Some of the advanced [[Tantric practices]] in the last [[chapter]] require [[initiation]]. |
| − | Buddha Weekly Manjushri on a snow lion with sword of wisdom Buddhism | + | [[Buddha]] Weekly [[Manjushri]] on a [[snow lion]] with [[sword of wisdom]] [[Buddhism]] |
| − | One of the beautiful illustrations by Ben Christian in the new book Gelug Mahamudra: Eloquent Speech of Manjushri. NOTE: The colour illustrations are only available in the first limited edition. The printed book, available on Amazon has the same illustrations in black and white. | + | One of the beautiful illustrations by Ben [[Christian]] in the new [[book]] [[Gelug]] [[Mahamudra]]: Eloquent {{Wiki|Speech}} of [[Manjushri]]. NOTE: The {{Wiki|colour}} illustrations are only available in the first limited edition. The printed [[book]], available on Amazon has the same illustrations in black and white. |
Related | Related | ||
<poem> | <poem> | ||
| − | To read chapter one book excerpt, please see our earlier feature | + | To read [[chapter]] one [[book]] excerpt, please see our earlier feature |
Paperback now available on Amazon>> | Paperback now available on Amazon>> | ||
| − | Paperback now available in Canada>> | + | Paperback now available in [[Canada]]>> |
| − | Paperback now available in the United Kingdom>> | + | Paperback now available in the {{Wiki|United Kingdom}}>> |
| − | English Paperback now available in Germany>> | + | English Paperback now available in {{Wiki|Germany}}>> |
| − | English Paperback now available in Japan>> | + | English Paperback now available in [[Japan]]>> |
| − | English Paperback now available in Italy>> | + | English Paperback now available in {{Wiki|Italy}}>> |
| − | The Three Grounds of Mahamudra | + | The Three Grounds of [[Mahamudra]] |
| − | Buddha Weekly Beautiful thangkas by Ben Christian Buddhism Buddhism | + | [[Buddha]] Weekly Beautiful [[thangkas]] by Ben [[Christian]] [[Buddhism]] [[Buddhism]] |
| − | Inside spread of Gelug Mahamudra book. | + | Inside spread of [[Gelug]] [[Mahamudra]] [[book]]. |
</poem> | </poem> | ||
| − | The book is a helpful commentary, supplemented with illustrations, and a very useful guide for students. Although the reader may not be able to engage in some of the practices without teacher-guidance — such as the Tantric Mahamudra methods — the instructions are very thorough and clear. In the case of Tantric Mahamudra, he gives detailed information, but with the caution: “to obtain the empowerments necessary for Tantric practice.” | + | The [[book]] is a helpful commentary, supplemented with illustrations, and a very useful guide for students. Although the reader may not be able to engage in some of the practices without teacher-guidance — such as the [[Tantric Mahamudra]] [[methods]] — the instructions are very thorough and clear. In the case of [[Tantric Mahamudra]], he gives detailed [[information]], but with the caution: “to obtain the [[empowerments]] necessary for [[Tantric practice]].” |
| − | Rinpoche explains the three levels of Mahamudra in the book: | + | [[Rinpoche]] explains the three levels of [[Mahamudra]] in the [[book]]: |
| − | Ground Mahamudra | + | Ground [[Mahamudra]] |
| − | Path Mahamudra | + | [[Path Mahamudra]] |
| − | Result Mahamudra. | + | Result [[Mahamudra]]. |
| − | He explains in chapter 1: “When we meditate, we recognise the nature of emptiness is always there; the realisation of emptiness dispels defilements. With the realisation of emptiness one is able to perceive all mental defilements and their nature of emptiness.” | + | He explains in [[chapter]] 1: “When we [[meditate]], we recognise the [[nature of emptiness]] is always there; the realisation of [[emptiness]] dispels [[defilements]]. With the realisation of [[emptiness]] one is able to {{Wiki|perceive}} all [[mental defilements]] and their [[nature of emptiness]].” |
| − | Later he eloquently summarizes: | + | Later he eloquently summarizes: “[[Mahamudra meditation]] is [[awareness]] and [[understanding]] of the [[true nature of mind]]; it is spacious, without beginning or end. It is like observing the sky without the trace of birds, or the criss-cross of jet planes. You can merge your [[consciousness]] in the [[state]] of [[Mahamudra]], beyond words and [[thoughts]]. The [[true nature of the mind]] is raw or [[naked awareness]]. It is an uncovered, untamed and [[unaltered state]], without [[fabrication]].” |
| − | Rinpoche covers the two types of Sutra Mahamudra: Samatha and Vipassana. He explains: | + | [[Rinpoche]] covers the two types of [[Sutra Mahamudra]]: [[Samatha]] and [[Vipassana]]. He explains: |
| − | “There are two types of Sutra Mahamudra: Samatha Mahamudra, and Vipassana Mahamudra. The wisdom of seeing the true nature of the mind with a calm abiding mind is Samatha Mahamudra. The wisdom of seeing the true nature of the mind through insight and an analytical mind is Vipassana Mahamudra.” | + | “There are two types of [[Sutra Mahamudra]]: [[Samatha]] [[Mahamudra]], and [[Vipassana]] [[Mahamudra]]. The [[wisdom]] of [[seeing]] the [[true nature of the mind]] with a [[calm abiding]] [[mind]] is [[Samatha]] [[Mahamudra]]. The [[wisdom]] of [[seeing]] the [[true nature of the mind]] through [[insight]] and an analytical [[mind]] is [[Vipassana]] [[Mahamudra]].” |
| − | The instructions in chapter 9, on Sutra Samatha Mahamudra, are “based on the teachings of the holy Gelug Mahamudra masters: Lama Je Tsongkhapa; the First Panchen Lama Losang Chokyi Gyaltsen; and Gungthang Tenpe Dronme.” | + | The instructions in [[chapter]] 9, on [[Sutra]] [[Samatha]] [[Mahamudra]], are “based on the teachings of the {{Wiki|holy}} [[Gelug]] [[Mahamudra masters]]: [[Lama]] [[Je Tsongkhapa]]; the [[First Panchen Lama]] [[Losang]] [[Chokyi Gyaltsen]]; and [[Gungthang]] Tenpe Dronme.” |
===[[What is mind?]]=== | ===[[What is mind?]]=== | ||
| − | Rinpoche explains how Lama Je Tsongkhapa and the First Panchen Lama taught the method of “seeking the correct view after having gained meditative samadhi.” | + | [[Rinpoche]] explains how [[Lama]] [[Je Tsongkhapa]] and the [[First Panchen Lama]] [[taught]] the method of “seeking the [[correct view]] after having gained [[meditative]] [[samadhi]].” |
| − | He adds, ” In Mahamudra practice it is always good to start with the question, what is mind? The ultimate nature of the mind is clear light, defilements are temporary. Mind is not within the mind, but it is clear light. Mind has no beginning and no end. All phenomena are manifested or produced from the mind. This is the teaching of the Buddha and all the great masters.” | + | He adds, ” In [[Mahamudra practice]] it is always good to start with the question, what is [[mind]]? The [[Wikipedia:Absolute (philosophy)|ultimate]] [[nature of the mind]] is [[clear light]], [[defilements]] are temporary. [[Mind]] is not within the [[mind]], but it is [[clear light]]. [[Mind]] has no beginning and no end. All [[phenomena]] are [[manifested]] or produced from the [[mind]]. This is [[the teaching of the Buddha]] and all the great [[masters]].” |
| − | Rinpoche compares the mind to the sky, “free of limitations” and also “like a diamond, its true nature is clear and precious.” | + | [[Rinpoche]] compares the [[mind]] to the sky, “free of limitations” and also “like a [[diamond]], its [[true nature]] is clear and [[precious]].” |
| − | He explains the deep topic of “six primary minds.” Rinpoche also offers the famous verses of Phagmo Drupa, and offers a complete commentary on them: | + | He explains the deep topic of “six primary [[minds]].” [[Rinpoche]] also offers the famous verses of [[Phagmo Drupa]], and offers a complete commentary on them: |
===[[Mahamudra is the state of non-dual awareness]]=== | ===[[Mahamudra is the state of non-dual awareness]]=== | ||
| Line 97: | Line 97: | ||
There are three aspects | There are three aspects | ||
| − | Essence, nature and characteristic. | + | [[Essence]], [[nature]] and [[characteristic]]. |
| − | The essence is emptiness (of arising, ceasing or conceiving). | + | The [[essence]] is [[emptiness]] (of [[arising]], ceasing or [[conceiving]]). |
| − | Nature is unobstructed lucidity, | + | [[Nature]] is unobstructed [[lucidity]], |
| − | Characteristic is the diverse appearances on the levels of Samsara and Nirvana. | + | [[Characteristic]] is the diverse [[appearances]] on the levels of [[Samsara]] and [[Nirvana]]. |
| − | After commentary, Rinpoche gives concise and very clear how-to instructions for your Mahamudra meditation. | + | After commentary, [[Rinpoche]] gives concise and very clear how-to instructions for your [[Mahamudra meditation]]. |
| − | The entire chapter 9 is a profound and powerful stand-alone teaching on Mahamudra Samatha, invaluable to any student. He gives very clear insights into how-to practice, including the “six examples given by the Gaden Mahamudra | + | The entire [[chapter]] 9 is a profound and powerful stand-alone [[teaching]] on [[Mahamudra]] [[Samatha]], invaluable to any [[student]]. He gives very clear [[insights]] into how-to practice, [[including]] the “six examples given by the [[Gaden]] [[Mahamudra masters]]”, such as: |
| − | “Resting the mind like an innocent child” | + | “Resting the [[mind]] like an innocent child” |
| − | “Resting the mind like a bird in the sky” | + | “Resting the [[mind]] like a bird in the sky” |
| − | “Resting the mind like soft and lightly-matted wool” | + | “Resting the [[mind]] like soft and lightly-matted wool” |
| − | Superior insight: guided meditation in Vipassana Mahamudra | + | {{Wiki|Superior}} [[insight]]: guided [[meditation]] in [[Vipassana]] [[Mahamudra]] |
| − | There are many practical and insightful chapters in the book, including an amazing guided meditation on Vipassana Mahamudra. | + | There are many {{Wiki|practical}} and [[insightful]] chapters in the [[book]], [[including]] an amazing guided [[meditation]] on [[Vipassana]] [[Mahamudra]]. |
===[[Rinpoche explains why Vipassana is critical]]=== | ===[[Rinpoche explains why Vipassana is critical]]=== | ||
| − | + | “[[Vipassana]] [[Mahamudra]] is [[essentially]] a [[meditation on emptiness]] and [[Shunyata]]. Without the realisation of [[Shunyata]] you cannot cut the [[root]] of [[Samsara]]. As I have mentioned before, [[Phagmo Drupa]] asked [[Gampopa]] what was the [[root]] of [[Samsara]]; the answer was ‘[[ordinary mind]]’. | |
| − | “When you know the root of Samsara, you have to pull out that root completely, otherwise it will keep growing back. The best way to achieve this is to meditate on emptiness through Vipassana Mahamudra.” | + | “When you know the [[root]] of [[Samsara]], you have to pull out that [[root]] completely, otherwise it will keep growing back. The best way to achieve this is to [[meditate]] on [[emptiness]] through [[Vipassana]] [[Mahamudra]].” |
| − | An extensive commentary, including a complete teaching on Shunyata (Emptiness), together with a guided meditation, make this chapter worth the price of the book. | + | An extensive commentary, [[including]] a complete [[teaching]] on [[Shunyata]] ([[Emptiness]]), together with a guided [[meditation]], make this [[chapter]] worth the price of the [[book]]. |
| Line 128: | Line 128: | ||
| − | Up until this point in the book, Rinpoche has taught based on Sutra Mahamudra. In chapter 13 he teaches based on Tantric Mahamura. Rinpoche defines it as: | + | Up until this point in the [[book]], [[Rinpoche]] has [[taught]] based on [[Sutra Mahamudra]]. In [[chapter]] 13 he teaches based on [[Tantric]] Mahamura. [[Rinpoche]] defines it as: |
| − | + | “[[Tantra]] [[Mahamudra]] is the union of [[bliss]] and [[emptiness]]. Owing to [[Sutra]], we are able to discover [[emptiness]], and owing to [[Tantra]] we discover [[true bliss]] . The combination and union of these two becomes the [[highest]] [[Mahamudra]], [[Tantra]] [[Mahamudra]].” | |
| − | Tummo practice is the best-known and a most-sought after teaching and practice from Tantric Mahamudra. It conjures images of yogis, dressed only in a light cloth, meditating on a snow-capped mountain, keeping warm with only their inner meditated tummo heat. Rinpoche explains the real significance of these practices and gives a complete explanation and commentary. He gives this commentary on Tantric Mahamudra with a caution: | + | [[Tummo practice]] is the best-known and a most-sought after [[teaching]] and practice from [[Tantric Mahamudra]]. It conjures images of [[yogis]], dressed only in a {{Wiki|light}} cloth, [[meditating]] on a snow-capped mountain, keeping warm with only their inner [[meditated]] [[tummo]] heat. [[Rinpoche]] explains the real significance of these practices and gives a complete explanation and commentary. He gives this commentary on [[Tantric Mahamudra]] with a caution: |
| − | “But I advise you to consult with your own Guru or a qualified master. There is no point trying to practise Tantric Mahamudra if you are not qualified. If you do the practice without careful guidance by the Guru it would do more harm than good. I have met many people in the West who would like to jump right into the highest and most advanced practices of Tantra, and the mystic and magical Tummo-Agni yoga practice, without a solid foundation.” | + | “But I advise you to consult with your [[own]] [[Guru]] or a qualified [[master]]. There is no point trying to practise [[Tantric Mahamudra]] if you are not qualified. If you do the practice without careful guidance by the [[Guru]] it would do more harm than good. I have met many [[people]] in the [[West]] who would like to jump right into the [[highest]] and most advanced practices of [[Tantra]], and the [[mystic]] and [[magical]] Tummo-Agni [[yoga practice]], without a solid foundation.” |
| − | Rinpoche clarifies many points advanced students may have struggled with in their practices, particularly regarding visualization of the channels, meridians, chakras and winds. | + | [[Rinpoche]] clarifies many points advanced students may have struggled with in their practices, particularly regarding [[visualization]] of the [[channels]], [[meridians]], [[chakras]] and [[winds]]. |
| − | In the beginning of the chapter on details of Tantric Mahamudra, Rinpoche explains: | + | In the beginning of the [[chapter]] on details of [[Tantric Mahamudra]], [[Rinpoche]] explains: |
| − | Tantra is not for everyone, especially completion stage and Tantric Mahamudra. This practice required a lot of faith. One has to surrender to the Guru and Yidam. This is very hard to do in this day and age, particularly for Western Dharma students, mainly because of cultural conditioning. Lots of people are attracted to Tantric practice, especially the practice of the Six Yogas of Naropa . Many people in the West want an easy practice and a quick result. It is like a fast food mentality. If you practise without proper readiness, you are risking your mental and physical energy levels, and your meditation development. So please pay attention to this advice; as I have said in the last chapter, you need a Guru and to have made a decision on your lifelong Yidam.” | + | [[Tantra]] is not for everyone, especially [[completion stage]] and [[Tantric Mahamudra]]. This practice required a lot of [[faith]]. One has to surrender to the [[Guru]] and [[Yidam]]. This is very hard to do in this day and age, particularly for [[Western]] [[Dharma]] students, mainly because of {{Wiki|cultural}} {{Wiki|conditioning}}. Lots of [[people]] are attracted to [[Tantric practice]], especially the practice of the [[Six Yogas of Naropa]] . Many [[people]] in the [[West]] want an easy practice and a quick result. It is like a fast [[food]] [[mentality]]. If you practise without proper {{Wiki|readiness}}, you are risking your [[mental]] and [[physical]] [[energy]] levels, and your [[meditation]] [[development]]. So please pay [[attention]] to this advice; as I have said in the last [[chapter]], you need a [[Guru]] and to have made a [[decision]] on your lifelong [[Yidam]].” |
===Recommended for serious students=== | ===Recommended for serious students=== | ||
| − | Gelug Mahamuda, Eloquent Speech of Manjushri, by Zasep Rinpoche, is highly recommended for any serious student of Vajrayana Buddhism. It is a must read for students of the Gelugpa tradition. For all Buddhists, generally, it’s a good read, especially the chapters on Samatha and Vipassana. | + | [[Gelug]] Mahamuda, Eloquent {{Wiki|Speech}} of [[Manjushri]], by Zasep [[Rinpoche]], is highly recommended for any serious [[student]] of [[Vajrayana Buddhism]]. It is a must read for students of the [[Gelugpa tradition]]. For all [[Buddhists]], generally, it’s a good read, especially the chapters on [[Samatha]] and [[Vipassana]]. |
Latest revision as of 01:19, 30 December 2021
Drawing on many decades of teaching experience in the west, he distils volumes of knowledge on Mahamudra — the most advanced and significant teachings in Vajrayana — into a concise yet comprehensive 300 pages. He writes in the same style as he teaches, with a focus on making this vast and deep method easy to digest and comprehend. With the aid of original illustrations from Ben Christian — which include channels and chakras diagrams, beautiful thangkas of Manjushri and other Buddhas, and yoga postures for sitting — Rinpoche compresses centuries of practice
Buddha Weekly Gelug Mahamudra Eloquent Speech of Manjushri Zasep Tulku Rinpoche book Buddhism Gelug Mahamudra, Eloquent Speech of Manjushri by H.E. Zasep Tulku Rinpoche, illustrated by Ben Christian. The book is available on Amazon in paperback and will soon release as a Kindle e-Book>>
commentary into fourteen short chapters. Covering everything from the preliminaries — Refuge, Bodhicitta, Mandala offerings, Vajrasattva, Guru Yoga — through to Samatha Mahamudra, Vipassana Mahamudra and finally on to Tantric Mahamudra, Rinpoche empowers the student to advance their practice with the “very heart of Buddha’s teachings.”
There are extensive how-tos and commentaries in this ultimately very practical book, especially the chapters on Samataha and Vipassana meditation. Rinpoche is well-known for the clarity of his in-person teachings on these important methods, and he brings that practicality. Reading this book, has the “flavor” of receiving a personal teaching from a meditation master. Also helpful are the four photos and fourteen illustrations meant to assist practice and visualization with deity thangkas, inner body maps (for Tantric Mahamudra) and yogic postures.
Related
To read chapter one book excerpt, please see our earlier feature>> Paperback now available on Amazon>> Paperback now available in Canada>> Paperback now available in the United Kingdom>> English Paperback now available in Germany>> English Paperback now available in Japan>> English Paperback now available in Italy>> Who is this book for?
This is a must read for Buddhists of the Gelug tradition, and a should read for many other Buddhists seeking insight into Shunyata (emptiness), or practicing Vipassana or Samatha.
“The very heart of Buddha’s teachings”
Mahamudra meditation and practice is “at the very heart of Buddha’s teachings,” begins H.E. Zasep Rinpoche in a new book from Wind Horse Press. In his introductory chapter, he explains why Mahamudra is a “need” not a want practice for Buddhists:
“Mahamudra practice slows us down so we can see things as they really are. Mahamudra reveals the ultimate nature of the mind, intrinsically pure and empty of inherent nature: pure awareness, luminous and spacious — clarity and cognisance.”
Although Rinpoche covers Mahamudra from the point of view of the Gelugpa tradition, many of the meditations are useful to any Buddhist, of any school. Mahamudra is both an ultimately simple practice, and the pinnacle of Vajrayana practices. Rinpoche explains in chapter 1: ” the actual Gelug technique of Mahamudra is deeply profound, and in particular, the Tantric Mahamudra is supreme.”
One question Rinpoche answers (hint, in chapter 9) is an important one:
“Why bother taking initiations, doing Tantric practice, doing all these foundation practices, Vajrasattva mantras, Guru Yoga. Why bother doing prostrations, three-year retreats, counting millions and millions of mantras. Why bother? Why not just sit and do the Mahamudra?” His answer will surprise many, and clarify for others what they already intuitively grasped.
NOTE: The Sutra Mahamudra content is open for any student. Some of the advanced Tantric practices in the last chapter require initiation.
Buddha Weekly Manjushri on a snow lion with sword of wisdom Buddhism One of the beautiful illustrations by Ben Christian in the new book Gelug Mahamudra: Eloquent Speech of Manjushri. NOTE: The colour illustrations are only available in the first limited edition. The printed book, available on Amazon has the same illustrations in black and white.
Related
To read chapter one book excerpt, please see our earlier feature
Paperback now available on Amazon>>
Paperback now available in Canada>>
Paperback now available in the United Kingdom>>
English Paperback now available in Germany>>
English Paperback now available in Japan>>
English Paperback now available in Italy>>
The Three Grounds of Mahamudra
Buddha Weekly Beautiful thangkas by Ben Christian Buddhism Buddhism
Inside spread of Gelug Mahamudra book.
The book is a helpful commentary, supplemented with illustrations, and a very useful guide for students. Although the reader may not be able to engage in some of the practices without teacher-guidance — such as the Tantric Mahamudra methods — the instructions are very thorough and clear. In the case of Tantric Mahamudra, he gives detailed information, but with the caution: “to obtain the empowerments necessary for Tantric practice.”
Rinpoche explains the three levels of Mahamudra in the book:
Ground Mahamudra
Result Mahamudra.
He explains in chapter 1: “When we meditate, we recognise the nature of emptiness is always there; the realisation of emptiness dispels defilements. With the realisation of emptiness one is able to perceive all mental defilements and their nature of emptiness.”
Later he eloquently summarizes: “Mahamudra meditation is awareness and understanding of the true nature of mind; it is spacious, without beginning or end. It is like observing the sky without the trace of birds, or the criss-cross of jet planes. You can merge your consciousness in the state of Mahamudra, beyond words and thoughts. The true nature of the mind is raw or naked awareness. It is an uncovered, untamed and unaltered state, without fabrication.”
Rinpoche covers the two types of Sutra Mahamudra: Samatha and Vipassana. He explains:
“There are two types of Sutra Mahamudra: Samatha Mahamudra, and Vipassana Mahamudra. The wisdom of seeing the true nature of the mind with a calm abiding mind is Samatha Mahamudra. The wisdom of seeing the true nature of the mind through insight and an analytical mind is Vipassana Mahamudra.”
The instructions in chapter 9, on Sutra Samatha Mahamudra, are “based on the teachings of the holy Gelug Mahamudra masters: Lama Je Tsongkhapa; the First Panchen Lama Losang Chokyi Gyaltsen; and Gungthang Tenpe Dronme.”
What is mind?
Rinpoche explains how Lama Je Tsongkhapa and the First Panchen Lama taught the method of “seeking the correct view after having gained meditative samadhi.”
He adds, ” In Mahamudra practice it is always good to start with the question, what is mind? The ultimate nature of the mind is clear light, defilements are temporary. Mind is not within the mind, but it is clear light. Mind has no beginning and no end. All phenomena are manifested or produced from the mind. This is the teaching of the Buddha and all the great masters.”
Rinpoche compares the mind to the sky, “free of limitations” and also “like a diamond, its true nature is clear and precious.”
He explains the deep topic of “six primary minds.” Rinpoche also offers the famous verses of Phagmo Drupa, and offers a complete commentary on them:
Mahamudra is the state of non-dual awareness
There are three aspects
Essence, nature and characteristic.
The essence is emptiness (of arising, ceasing or conceiving).
Nature is unobstructed lucidity,
Characteristic is the diverse appearances on the levels of Samsara and Nirvana.
After commentary, Rinpoche gives concise and very clear how-to instructions for your Mahamudra meditation.
The entire chapter 9 is a profound and powerful stand-alone teaching on Mahamudra Samatha, invaluable to any student. He gives very clear insights into how-to practice, including the “six examples given by the Gaden Mahamudra masters”, such as:
“Resting the mind like an innocent child”
“Resting the mind like a bird in the sky”
“Resting the mind like soft and lightly-matted wool”
Superior insight: guided meditation in Vipassana Mahamudra There are many practical and insightful chapters in the book, including an amazing guided meditation on Vipassana Mahamudra.
Rinpoche explains why Vipassana is critical
“Vipassana Mahamudra is essentially a meditation on emptiness and Shunyata. Without the realisation of Shunyata you cannot cut the root of Samsara. As I have mentioned before, Phagmo Drupa asked Gampopa what was the root of Samsara; the answer was ‘ordinary mind’. “When you know the root of Samsara, you have to pull out that root completely, otherwise it will keep growing back. The best way to achieve this is to meditate on emptiness through Vipassana Mahamudra.” An extensive commentary, including a complete teaching on Shunyata (Emptiness), together with a guided meditation, make this chapter worth the price of the book.
The Fascination with Tummo
Up until this point in the book, Rinpoche has taught based on Sutra Mahamudra. In chapter 13 he teaches based on Tantric Mahamura. Rinpoche defines it as:
“Tantra Mahamudra is the union of bliss and emptiness. Owing to Sutra, we are able to discover emptiness, and owing to Tantra we discover true bliss . The combination and union of these two becomes the highest Mahamudra, Tantra Mahamudra.”
Tummo practice is the best-known and a most-sought after teaching and practice from Tantric Mahamudra. It conjures images of yogis, dressed only in a light cloth, meditating on a snow-capped mountain, keeping warm with only their inner meditated tummo heat. Rinpoche explains the real significance of these practices and gives a complete explanation and commentary. He gives this commentary on Tantric Mahamudra with a caution:
“But I advise you to consult with your own Guru or a qualified master. There is no point trying to practise Tantric Mahamudra if you are not qualified. If you do the practice without careful guidance by the Guru it would do more harm than good. I have met many people in the West who would like to jump right into the highest and most advanced practices of Tantra, and the mystic and magical Tummo-Agni yoga practice, without a solid foundation.”
Rinpoche clarifies many points advanced students may have struggled with in their practices, particularly regarding visualization of the channels, meridians, chakras and winds.
In the beginning of the chapter on details of Tantric Mahamudra, Rinpoche explains:
Tantra is not for everyone, especially completion stage and Tantric Mahamudra. This practice required a lot of faith. One has to surrender to the Guru and Yidam. This is very hard to do in this day and age, particularly for Western Dharma students, mainly because of cultural conditioning. Lots of people are attracted to Tantric practice, especially the practice of the Six Yogas of Naropa . Many people in the West want an easy practice and a quick result. It is like a fast food mentality. If you practise without proper readiness, you are risking your mental and physical energy levels, and your meditation development. So please pay attention to this advice; as I have said in the last chapter, you need a Guru and to have made a decision on your lifelong Yidam.”
Recommended for serious students
Gelug Mahamuda, Eloquent Speech of Manjushri, by Zasep Rinpoche, is highly recommended for any serious student of Vajrayana Buddhism. It is a must read for students of the Gelugpa tradition. For all Buddhists, generally, it’s a good read, especially the chapters on Samatha and Vipassana.
Source
[[1]]
