25. januar 2011

A PRACTICE OF PADMASAMBHAVA: Essential Instructions on the Path to Awakening


By Shechen Gyaltsap IV and Rinchen Dargye

Foreword by Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche, translated by The Dharmachakra Translation Committee

A Practice of Padmasambhava presents two practical and compelling works related to a visualization and mantra practice of Padmasambhava. This practice is based on the most important revelation of the renowned nineteenth-century treasure revealer Chokgyur Lingpa, Accomplishing the Guru's Mind: Dispeller of All Obstacles.

These two works give an introduction to the preliminary trainings, outline the primary elements of visualization practice and mantra recitation, and supply a detailed explanation of the practice of Padmasambhava's wisdom aspect, Guru Vadisimha.

Through practical step-by-step instructions on this deity, the reader is guided into the general world of tantric practice common to all of Tibetan Buddhism.

"These two authentic manuals give the reader practical understanding of Mahayoga, the foundation for the inner tantras, in all its incredible depth. They are a true treasury of powerful tools to transform the habitual ways of our human condition into the path of enlightenment."—Erik Pema Kunsang, compiler and translator of Wellsprings of the Great Perfection: The Lives and Insights of the Early Masters

"What does it mean to have a precious human life? How can we make use of it when we have no idea how long it will last? What is the use of trying to be good? What is the difference between the fleeting happiness that constantly slips through our fingers and true contentment? Whether one is a newcomer to Tibetan Buddhism considering taking a step onto its path or an old hand at meditation practice, the four reflections that Shechen Gyaltsap lays out on the preciousness of human life, impermanence, karma, and the ultimately dissatisfying quality of life are sure to inspire us to take hold of our lives."—from the Introduction

Shechen Gyaltsap IV spent most of his life in retreat and was one of the main teachers of the late Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche.

Rinchen Dargye was a direct disciple of the great treasure revealer Chokgyur Lingpa and was a prolific writer on all aspects of tantric thought and practice.

The Dharmachakra Translation Committee works under the guidance of Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and is committed to making Buddhist classics available to modern readers in their native languages. The Committee draws its inspiration from the vision, commitment, and magnificent achievements of past Buddhist translators.