Customer Reviews

Dzogchen: The Heart Essence of the Great Perfection

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Recently His Holiness the Dalai Lama published highly edited transcripts of four empowerments he gave into the traditional Nyingma teaching of Dzogchen or Great Perfection. Both Dzogchen and Mahamudra represent important indigenous developments of Tantric teachings in Tibet. Like all wisdom traditions, Buddhism rests upon the transmission of heart-essence realization and dharma from one generation to the next. Dzogchen, literally "great perfection," is the primary teaching of the Nyingmapa school of Tibetan Buddhism, having been carried to Tibet in the eighth century by Padmasambhava, who is recognized as a "second Buddha." This actualization of what Dzogchen is is sent out through this collection of empowerments given from 1982-1989 by the 14th Dalai Lama. Sogyal Rinpoche (The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying) requested these teachings, and His Holiness the Dalai Lama obliged with emphasis on the 5th Dalai Lama's visionary receipt of Dzogchen teaching, which is summarized simply by the verse: "Ema! Phenomena are, without exception, Perfect within the continuum of self-arising rigpa." Ema is an expression of wonder and astonishment. Whereas rigpa is a technical term for root single awareness that illuminates all; whereas ordinary awareness is that but as refracted into various experiences of subject and object, so that the unity becomes a secret, except for those who are aware of the nature of the root awareness then everything is the root awareness. To attempt to understand enough so that one can cut through the veils of separations that is usually the habit mind. Of course the development of habitual indwelling in non-divisive bliss might be more fun than reading hundreds of books. But as the verse say there is no difference at the root or in the stem and branch or such preferences seeming important. Empowerments are a principle way the Tibetans are bringing Buddha dharma to the west. An empowerment is the oral recitation of the teaching with impromptu commentary for the audience. It is done with a ritual format so that there can be prayers, chants and other meditation aids going on but the most important aspect of the empowerment is that the teacher and his assistants as well as the whole audience is speaking at the time from within the nondual realization of what is being taught. In other words the Dalai Lama and his retinue are all within a state of actualization of the reality to which the teaching refers. As the audience is also so attuned the psychic contagion can be intense and experiences can quickly and deeply cut through the fog of our surface consciousness. Now this volume is likely to be popular among students of Buddhism, but, except for the Appendix: Compassion, the Heart of Enlightenment; the texts would confuse the novice. Because of this I recommend several other texts that provide more systematic accounts of the Dzogchen traditions and how they fit in with the wider traditions of Buddhist practice. The Golden Letters: The Three Statements of Garab Dorje, the First Teacher of Dzogchen, Together With a Commentary by Garab Dorje, edited and translated with a commentary by John Myrdhin Reynolds (Snow Lion Press) In many ways the best guide to Dzogchen teachings. Includes explanations that were previously thought too secret to publish. Mipham's Beacon of Certainty: Illuminating the View of Dzogchen, the Great Perfection by Mi-Pham-Rgya-Mtsho Nes Ses Rin Po Chei Sgron Me edited and translated with commentary by John W. Pettit (Wisdom Publications) offers the necessary links between Madhyamika and Dzogchen. And as a relatively easy introduction the The Crystal and the Way of Light: Sutra, Tantra and Dzogchen by Chogyal Namkhai Norbu, edited by John Shane (Tibetan Buddhist Philosophy: Snow Lion Press) provides a useful introduction.

This is the most technical of the 9 Dalai Lama books I've read so far. This is appropriate, however, for such a deep subject as Dzogchen-claimed by the Nyingmapa School to be the ultimate teaching. The Dalai Lama does NOT dispute this but dedicates a significant portion of his book (actually a collection of oral presentations given mostly in California in the late `80's) to "the correspondence between Highest Yoga Tantra and Dzogchen" (p. 120) per Dodrupchen Jikme Tenpe Nyima (1865-1926). Highest Yoga Tantra is the highest teaching of his own Gelugpa School. He points out both similarities and differences, compares it to Mahamudra (the highest teaching of the Kagyu School), the highest teaching of the Sakya School, and the Madhyamaka Prasangika philosophy as well. However, as he states on p. 176: "I am explaining Dzogchen, but in order to explain it, at this point I shall employ the vocabulary of the new schools of tantra." At least for me, he cleared up considerable ambiguity/confusion regarding the differences between this philosophy (now dominant in Tibet) and the Cittamatra.

Thus, this is NOT an introductory text. In fact, it's quite uneven-but then it wasn't written, it was a series of lectures. It includes some extremely basic Buddhist material (including his referring to the Southern Buddhism Schools as the "Fundamental Vehicle" on p. 98). This, as well as the final lecture, reflects his great compassion for all-emulating Avalokiteshvara & Tara. Indeed, he discusses some very erudite subjects with great sensitivity: emptiness (the 4 empties), free will, & (especially) context. He states:
p. 143: "there are many different presentations of emptiness."
p. 144: "it is very important to examine what the reference of any particular term may be."
p. 160: "even though the context may appear to be similar, we cannot assume that a particular term will retain the same meaning whenever it occurs."

Most of this book is a comparison of Dzogchen with other systems rather than an exposition of its methods-perhaps its sub-title might be amended. However, one lecture is a wonderful commentary on Patrul Rinpoche's "The Special Teaching of the Wise and Glorious King" which demonstrates the Dalai Lama's great erudition, knowledge of Dzogchen, and his rare ability to translate complex concepts into simple language. He chose this text because it is (p. 91) "quite short but of great substance." He also makes a very enlightening (for me) statement about a particular Dzogchen technique:
p. 56: sky gazing: "direct your gaze toward the space between you and external phenomena."

I thought people would be interested to see all the reviews given to this precious, clear, beautifully written book, so am posting them here. Susie.

"His Holiness the Dalai Lama brings to his explanation of Dzogchen a perspective and breadth which are unique. To receive such teachings from His Holiness is, I feel, something quite extraordinary."--Sogyal Rinpoche, author of The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying

"For our time, His Holiness the Dalai Lama embodies the completely pure essence of the Buddha's wisdom and limitless compassion for all beings. His knowledge of the teachings of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism in general, and the Dzogchen teachings in particular, is impeccable. His deep understanding and generosity of spirit make him an unerring and reliable guide through the subtleties of the profound vehicle of Tibetan Buddhist practice known as Dzogchen. Students are fortunate to have access to this collection of rare teachings-the most direct teachings available on mind's true nature-and, through them, to meet such an extraordinary teacher."--The Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche

"In this beautifully translated and edited volume, His Holiness, foremost proponent of the Ri-me movement in contemporary Buddhism, displays his enormous erudition, profound insight and inexhaustible good humor in illuminating the profound theory and practice of Dzogchen. This work is a genuine treasure for scholars and contemplatives alike."--B. Alan Wallace

"For unsurpassed, highest perfect scholarship, Dzogchen comes as near as language permits us to discussing the ineffable."--Bloomsbury Review

"H.H. the Dalai Lama, Buddhist leader and world peacemaker, sets forth herein perfectly clear instructions for the attainment of buddha mind and the heart essence of dzogchen. Studying, contemplating, and meditating on these teachings will reveal the true meaning of precious human life. This book is a beacon for the new millennium!"--Khenpo Palden Sherab Rinpoche & Khenpo Tsewang Dongyal Rinpoche.

"What greater treasure than this volume hosting four separate teachings on Dzogchen given by the Dalai Lama to Western students?"--Sangha Journal

"He offers here not only luminous insight into the heart of spiritual practice, but also practical advice on how to bring such teachings into daily life. His humor adds a warm grace note throughout. Clear, easy to understand--Dzogchen: The Heart Essence of the Great Perfection is a perfect book for our times."--Tricycle: The Buddhist Review

"...The Dalai Lama's expertise in the area of Dzogchen, combined with his clear manner of presentation, make the text an accessible resource for practitioners and students interested in Dzogchen meditaion."-- Religious Studies Review

I am not qualified to give a comprehensive review for this precious book, Dzogchen-The Heart Essence of the Great Perfection. Kyabje Sogyal Rinpoche has written an amazing preface which sets the stage and highlights the unique and precious nature of His Holiness Dzogchen teachings.

I wholeheartedlyrecommend this book to anyone interested in Dzogchen.

Dzogchen: Heart Essence Of The Great Perfection By The Dalai Lama should be considered as compulsory reading for anyone studying the tenets, teachings, and philosophy of Buddhism. Here recorded are teachings on Dzogchen, which is at the core of the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism as related by the ultimate authority -- his Holiness, The Dalai Lama. The text is completely accessible to seasoned students, as well as non-specialist general readers with an interest in Buddhism. Ably translated by Geshe Thupeten Jinpa and Richard Barron, and expertly edited by Patrick Gaffney, Dzogchen: Heart Essence Of The Great Perfection is a welcome and much appreciated contribution to the growing canon of Buddhist literature for the western reader. Indeed, anything written and published by The Dali Lama should be considered a "must read" by all dedicated students of Buddhism throughout the world.

Tashi Delek and Greetings!
While relying on this book and seriously contemplating these teachings one can transform this world into a pure land- Dewachen. All things are perfect naturally- hence the Great Perfection.
I highly recommend "Enlightened Journey" by Tulku Thundup as a foundation before reading this text.
May you be happy and understand the ways to attain true happiness.
S.Chukdong.

I bought this book for a Buddhist friend who has studied with Sogyal Rinpoche and read the Tibetan Book of Living and Dying by Sogyal Rinpoche. He is reading this book every day and is enjoying it. He says the book is helping him grow in his practice.

This text by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama is a profound and in depth discussion into this most profound meditation and mind training system. There is not much that can be said, because it is very profound. The introduction by Sogyal Rinpoche is very insightful and reverential of His Holiness; which is both warming and awe inspiring. The body of the text itself, is remarkable and will stand as a monument to this spiritual discipline long into the distant future. Thank You, Your Holiness. (3 prostrations).

I bougth this book many years ago when it appeared. I was in a french sangha of an internationaly known lama near Paris. This lama endlessly spoke (in videos, he was scarcely present) about dzogchen importance without never explaining the method of dzogchen. I was so glad to find this book! Unfortunatly when I read it, it appeared to me very criptic as written in a very erudite langage, and I am sory to tell that, very badly organised with a lot of citations without clear progression. And worst, there were several speeches or interviews turning around dzogchen lineage, but only one practice text: a Dalai Lama comment on Patrul Rinpotche's "The Special Teaching of the Wise and Glorious King". The practice described consists into sitting relaxed in Shine meditation, then shouting "phat" to frighten the mind which stops thougths, then be aware of the non dual consciousness of this state, then remain in it. Which is childlish: I don't expect the Dalai lama practice that, he who is not affraid by the practice of wratfull deities. Would him be affraid to the point of not thinking by just shouting "phat"? Seriously! If the pope was saying that everybody would laugh at him!

He says himself that he chose this text because it is (p. 91) "quite short but of great substance." And obviously not because he uses it for his own practice. It is just an oportunity for him to debate about dzogchen in the medieval scolastic tradition of Tibet, but not describe fully dzogchen practice. For me it is like saint Thomas d'Aquin books based primarily on sacred texts and not experience.

I was not sure of that, me a small practicionner of shine, but events shown me that I was true. One year later there was still the same raw of this book, unsold because too erudite and not usefull. Finaly it was put in clearence sale, but still not sold! You imagine, Patrul Rinpoche and Dalai lama on dzogchen! One of the most profound text according to some lamas! Finaly there was a retreat with our lama and for the first time he spoke about dzogchen practice. He commented this text of Patrul rinpoche, but the text was distributed only to the happy fews belonging to the "mandala dzogchen" that is the old students. Most people where frustrated, but I said with discretion to people around me: don't care folks, it is sold at the bookstore in such book. At the break, the whole raw of books was sold!
After the retreat I tried to discuss with people about the accuracy of the book, but they became nervous and agressive. Visibly no one had tried to practice according to this text, but they had great reverence to it, as it was said to them by the lama that they should have. And a lama is assumed to be enlightened! It seems that they did not even make the distinction between the simple practice of Patrul rinpoche who was a very simple man, and the complexity of Dalai lama erudition. They expected the practice so complex! Try it!

This book is not for the beginner, in fact you wonder whom it's aimed towards. His Holiness The Dalai Lama did a wonderful job with this book and many of the things are well thought and well explained, but it's hard to understand. The book does not have a beginner's touch at all. I wouldn't recommend this one unless you have had some basic Dzogchen education. Again, who is this book aimed towards? beginner? or expert?