Lam Rim
Topics:
What
is a Guru ??
Some
teachers considered a Guru to be someone whom you have relied on and lived with
for years, learning the basics of the Dharma all the way into the tantras. This
is applicable and true especially in a monastic context.
Some
teachers teach that from a technical point of view, someone whom we have
received initiation, especially a Highest Yoga Tantra class is a Guru.
Some
teachers teach that if we find ourselves being benefited greatly from this
person's teachings, short instructions or even just being in his or her
presence, probably due to past lives' connections, is a Guru.
The
proper way to practise the Dharma:
Listening:
We listen to the Dharma
Contemplating:
We re-think and contemplate on what we have heard
Applying:
We apply it in our daily lives
The
Dharma in gist:
The
Three Higher Trainings
Keep
and live-by the precepts-commitments
Cultivate
concentration-contemplation
Cultivate
Wisdom
TOPIC
ONE
The
Centrality of the Spiritual Friend: the Guru **
**(
Topic One is mainly relevant to students practising in the Vajrayana
tradition )
A
We
need a qualified Teacher because He or She has walked the path and has realised
its Truth. He or she has the compassion and skills to lead us to the same state:
freedom from suffering, the best position to help all others. Without someone
exprienced, we cannot practise properly.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
B
You
need to look for a truly qualified Teacher:
A
qualified Teacher teaches in-line with the Buddha's teachings. ( Je Tsongkhapa's
point )
He
or she must "walk the talk" ( The late Khensur Dorje Tashi emphasises this point
!! )
He
or she may have good reference from other established Teachers. ( this point
from worldly common sense )
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
C
If
we rely on the Teacher, every possible good will come: worldly protection, aims
and sublime spiritual fruits all ripen !!
If
we do not rely on the Teacher, we will be lost and sufferings will come
!!
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
D
The
qualified Teacher is / should be a Buddha because he or she already possesses
the pure Buddha Nature. So you pray and rely on their "Buddha Nature" is
equivalent to relying on an actual Buddha.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
E
The
Buddhas and Bodhisattvas all committed to liberate all beings from suffering.
Since there are still suffering beings, the buddhas and bodhisattvas all are
still here. The best way for them to help will be to manifest as a human master,
the form of a qualified Teacher. The qualified Teacher is surely the Buddha come
back !!
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
F
All
the holy scriptures talk of how the Buddhas shall return as qualified Teachers.
Even if they are not fully enlightened, Manjushri promises to bless and guide on
the Teacher's behalf so long as disciples have faith. So, no matter what, i must
see the qualified Teacher as a Buddha !!
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
[
Here ends the main points dealing with the First Topic of all Lam Rim
traditions. Firmly do it till it becomes your mind. ]
*PRACTICE BEFORE FINDING A
GURU
Often
in countries that are not traditionally Buddhist, such as in the West, students
do not have great access to many spiritual teachers. The Buddhist masters who
visit may come only once a year, at the most. Thus it is difficult to find a
sufficient variety of gurus to investigate in order to select a proper one, and
there are insufficient opportunities to examine the qualifications of any of
them. But this does not mean that before you have found a teacher who can serve
as your guru, or even as your root guru, you cannot begin Dharma practice and at
least engage in some of the forward-leading preliminaries.
First
of all, you can certainly receive teachings from the various spiritual
instructors who visit your countries, and do so in the manner of simply
attending a lecture. As for engaging in meditational practices, even without a
root guru you can proceed, on the basis of receiving instructions in a lecture
or reading a book, to practice, for example, the placement of the four types of
close mindfulness - on the bodily sensations, the feelings of a level of
happiness or unhappiness, the mind and all phenomena. You can also begin,
without a root guru to practice the meditational methods for developing a
dedicated heart of bodhicitta and a correct understanding of the nature of
reality, or voidness, on the basis of reading such texts as Shantideva's
Engaging in Bodhisattva's Deeds. Of course, however, before engaging in
any meditational practice, you must first ponder and think over carefully what
you have heard or read so that you understand it
correctly.
-
The Gelug/Kagyu Tradition of MAHAMUDRA
H.H.
Dalai Lama
Alexander
Berzin
TOPIC
TWO
The
Perfect Human Rebirth
[
Note: In relation to the first Lam Rim Topic which we should have gained some
confidence and firmness of experience, it will carry deeper blessings, maturity
and impressions to begin each sub-topic: A, B C and so on with "Our perfect
Teacher teaches that ....." ]
A
Cause
"Our
perfect Teacher teaches that ....."
We
need horrifically precious causes to obtain a human body, especially a human
body which has had contact with the Buddha's teachings, senses complete and all.
Now that we have obtained it, we should never waste it ( we have afterall
sacrificed much in past lives to have obtained it !! ) in pursuit of trivial
worldly matters but instead use it only or mainly for practice of Dharma** which
leads to liberation for oneself and others.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
B
Number
"Our
perfect Teacher teaches that ....."
There
are uncountable number of beings in the hells and other Lower Realms.
Human-body-rebirth is like the dust on one's finger tip while beings from all
other realms are like dust below one's feet. Since, numerically, our human body
is so precious, we 100% MUST use it FULLEST not in pursuit of trivial worldly
matters but instead use it only or mainly for practice of Dharma** which leads
to liberation for oneself and others.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
C
Function
"Our
perfect Teacher teaches that ....."
If
we use this human body of ours to practise Dharma, inconceivable Buddhahood with
its inconceivable qualities will be won. This will be of highest good to oneself
and the world. ( Sutra's viewpoint )
This
human body is already itself, upon proper understanding and recognition with an
authentic Teacher's instructions, the divine Pure Land and Yidam/s - the very
actual nature of Buddhahood. We should cherish this human body and stay in this
recognition for good of all. ( Tantra's viewpoint )
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
[
Here ends the main points dealing with the Second Topic of the Lam Rim
teachings. Firmly do it till it becomes your mind. ]
TOPIC
THREE
Death
& Impermanence
[
Note: In relation to the first Lam Rim Topic which we should have gained some
confidence and firmness of experience, it will carry deeper blessings, maturity
and impressions to begin each sub-topic: A, B C and so on with "Our perfect
Teacher teaches that ....." ]
A
Inevitable
"Our
perfect Teacher teaches that ....."
We
will inevitably die. NO one is spared death. This precious human body, perfect
for practice of the holy Dharma for
greatest
good of all, will inevitably face death.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you
can
do the mantras until you feel the topic has firmly been internalised in your
mind !! )
;
B
Random
"Our
perfect Teacher teaches that ....."
Death
is random. Our precious human body, perfect for practice of the holy Dharma for
greatest good of all, can die
anytime,
anywhere. Anything that lives can die anytime, anywhere.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you
can
do the mantras until you feel the topic has firmly been internalised in your
mind !! )
C
Only
the Dharma
"Our
perfect Teacher teaches that ....."
When
death inevitably strikes, anytime, anywhere, only our accumulated Dharma
practices, the Gurus, the Buddhas,
the
Dharma and the Sangha can help. If even this very body of ours needs to be
forsaken at death, absolutely nothing
else
will matter or help then.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you
can
do the mantras until you feel the topic has firmly been internalised in your
mind !! )
[
Here ends the main points dealing with the Third Topic of the Lam Rim teachings.
Firmly do it till it becomes your mind. ]
TOPIC
FOUR
Refuge
[
Note: In relation to the first Lam Rim Topic which we should have gained some
confidence and firmness of experience, it will carry deeper blessings, maturity
and impressions to begin each sub-topic: A, B C and so on with "Our perfect
Teacher teaches that ....." ]
A
The
Precious Guru
(
This sub-topic A is relevant mainly to only students of the Vajrayana tradition
)
"Our
perfect Teacher teaches that ....."
The
precious Teacher embodies the Buddhas, the Dharma and the Sangha.
The
qualified Teachers' holy mind rests in perfect Compassion and Wisdom non-dual:
this is the Buddha.
The
qualified Teachers' holy speech speaks only the Dharma and every word liberates
countless beings from samsara: this is the Dharma.
The
qualified Teachers' holy Body is the perfect form of the ordained Sangha ( or
lay-bodhisattva for some Teachers ).
We
take complete refuge out of fear ( of all sufferings in samsara ), faith ( in
its perfect qualities ) and compassion ( so we can liberate all mother beings by
attaining the state of Buddhahood ).
For
details in "Relying on the Spiritual Teacher", see: http://www.casotac.com/CASonline%20Articles/02082008.html
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
B
The
Buddhas
"Our
perfect Teacher teaches that ....."
The
Buddhas are the perfect doctors for our sicknesses of defilements which bind us
to sufferings in samsara.
The
Buddhas have perfected complete love, compassion, wisdom, abilities and
qualities.
The
Buddhas' holy minds have perfect love, compassion and wisdom towards all
beings.
The
Buddhas' holy speech possess inconceivable blessings and qualities and liberate
countless beings from suffering.
The
Buddhas' holy body is perfect, the paragon of inconceivable majesty and
resplendence. It is the culmination of accumulations of merits and wisdom of
countless aeons.
We
take complete refuge out of fear ( of all sufferings in samsara ), faith ( in
its perfect qualities ) and compassion ( so we can liberate all mother beings by
attaining the state of Buddhahood ).
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
C
The
Dharma
"Our
perfect Teacher teaches that ....."
The
Dharma are the perfect medicine for our sicknesses of defilements which bind us
to sufferings in samsara.
The
Dharma is the authentic, perfect path to liberation from all
sufferings.
We
take complete refuge out of fear ( of all sufferings in samsara ), faith ( in
its perfect qualities ) and compassion ( so we can liberate all mother beings by
attaining the state of Buddhahood ).
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
D
The
Sangha
"Our
perfect Teacher teaches that ....."
The
Sangha are the perfect companions on our treatments to sicknesses of defilements
which bind us to sufferings in samsara.
The
authentic Sangha are the genuine disciples of the Buddhas. They provide support,
guidance and assistance in every possible ways.
We
take complete refuge out of fear ( of all sufferings in samsara ), faith ( in
its perfect qualities ) and compassion ( so we can liberate all mother beings by
attaining the state of Buddhahood ).
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
[
Here ends the main points dealing with the Fourth Topic of the Lam Rim
teachings. Firmly do it till it becomes your mind. ]
TOPIC
FIVE
Karma
Note:
[
In relation to the first Lam Rim Topic which we should have gained some
confidence and firmness of experience, it will carry deeper blessings, maturity
and impressions to begin each sub-topic: A, B C and so on with "Our perfect
Teacher teaches that ....." ]
Other
Notes:
(
Every Lam Rim topics are sequential progresses.
Eg
One:
Topic Four is a sequential follow-up to Death & Impermanence since when
Death strikes, only Dharma will help. And the gateway to Dharma, is Refuge. To
take Refuge, we need to know the qualities of the Guru, Buddhas, Dharma and
Sangha
Eg
Two:
Topic Five is a partial growing forth from Topic Four since when Death strikes,
only karma follows. Therefore, it is critical that we know what actions to adopt
and abandon to squash problems whilst acquire bliss. )
A
Karma
is Definite
The
Spiritual Friend/s or Teacher/s
"Our
perfect Teacher teaches that ....."
Everything
action is a causal seed that inevitably results in happiness or suffering. Good
begets happiness. Bad begets suffering.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
B
Karma
is determined by Motivation
"Our
perfect Teacher teaches that ....."
Results
of action/s are affected by Motivation. Good Motivation begets happiness. Bad
Motivation begets suffering.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
C
Karma
is affected by the Object
"Our
perfect Teacher teaches that ....."
The
Object/s towards which we direct our actions determine the "scale" and "depth"
of Karmic results. Karmic actions related to the Gurus, Buddhas, Dharma and
Sangha will yield "strong" results.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
D
Karma
is affected by the " Length of Time "
"Our
perfect Teacher teaches that ....."
The
longer the length of time lapses before Karma ripens, the "stronger" will be the
results
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
E
What
to adopt
"Our
perfect Teacher teaches that ....."
Happiness
results from the below:
(
3 of Mind )
o
Wisdom
o
Love
and Kindness
o
"Un-Attachment"
[ as opposed to Greed and Grasping ]
(
4 of Speech )
o
Truthful
speech
o
Uplifting-Kind
speech
o
Speech
that reconciles, not separate
o
Meaningful
speech
(
3 of Bodily-actions )
o
To
give-protect life
o
To
practise generosity
o
To
be morally-prudent in relationship-sexual issues
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
F
What
to avoid
"Our
perfect Teacher teaches that ....."
Sufferings
results from the below:
(
3 of Mind )
o
Ignorance
o
Hatred-Anger
o
Greed-Attachment
(
4 of Speech )
o
Untruthful
speech
o
Harsh-hurtful
speech
o
Speech
separates relationships-people
o
Meaningless
speech
(
3 of Bodily-actions )
o
To
kill-take life
o
To
steal
o
To
be improper in relationship-sexual matters
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
G
Two
of some of the most effective karma-purifying strategies
"Our
perfect Teacher teaches that ....."
These
are two of some of the most effective methods of purifying negative karmas. Even
the "Five Heinous Karmas" are totally purified with these "Four Powers"
conjoined with the two strategies.
ONE
Prostrations
to the 35 Confession Buddhas
TWO
Vajrasattva
Practice with the "Four Powers"
Do
the Vajrasattva 100 Syllable Mantra or Vajrasattva Short Mantra
OR
Reciting
any mantras, sutras while relying on the respective authentic
practice-text/s.
(
These 2 texts are avialable via requests @ contact@casotac.com )
"First
Power"
Regret:
Knowing that the negative action/s will yield suffering and pain.
"Second
Power"
Never
to re-commit the negative action/s.
"Third
Power"
Do
the "opposite" of the negative action/s. Eg: Now I give and protect lives
instead of killing.
"Fourth
Power"
Relying
on Vajrasattva, the 35 Confession Buddhas or any holy practices.
(
While contemplating the above, adopt and practice them !! )
[
Here ends the main points dealing with the Fifth Topic of the Lam Rim teachings.
Firmly do it till it becomes your mind. ]
Topic
Five marks the end of the FIRST SCOPE of the Lam Rim Teachings: abiding by the
right karmic actions for achievement of Higher Rebirth
TOPIC
SIX
Renunciation
[
Note: In relation to the first Lam Rim Topic which we should have gained some
confidence and firmness of experience, it will carry deeper blessings, maturity
and impressions to begin each sub-topic: A, B C and so on with "Our perfect
Teacher teaches that ....." ]
[
This topic follows Topic Five: Karma - which produces the karmic results below.
]
A
Suffering
of Suffering
"Our
perfect Teacher teaches that ....."
The
whole of conditioned existence suffers.
The
main sufferings: birth, old age, sickness and death - then you get reborn and
die again and reborn again and die again with no end.
The
Hell Realm:
the most painful, ceaseless sufferings: burning / freezing / killing / ( etc !!
)
The
Hungry Ghost Realm:
unquenchable, futile search for sustenance.
The
Animal Realm:
extreme ignorance, eating each other, harnessed for others use / ( etc !!
)
(
These 3 Lower Realms mainly embroiled in this Suffering of Suffering although it
pervades too the 3 Higher Realms )
Seeing
how all samsaric existence of the 6 Realms are embroiled in Suffering of
Suffering, one completely renounces samsara, develops deep compassion for
samsaric mother beings and exerts hard for Enlightenment.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
B
Suffering
of Change
"Our
perfect Teacher teaches that ....."
The
whole of conditioned existence suffers.
The
main sufferings: birth, old age, sickness and death - then you get reborn and
die again and reborn again and die again with no end.
The
Human Realm:
losing desired people-circumstances: the wealthiest becoming impoverished /
pretty and young becoming ugly and old / meeting undesired people-circumstances
/ not meeting desired people-circumstances / difficulties in making living / (
etc !! )
The
Demi-Gods Realm:
ceaseless vain and futile strife to match splendor of the Gods through battles
and all, finally dropping out of this realm ( usually straight into the Lower
Realms ) when Merits are used up.
The
Gods Realm:
endless mindless frivolous celebrations until Merits are used up wherein the
last 7 days, abject terror strikes ( the suffering now worse than in the Hell
Realms ) then free-falling, usually into the 3 Lower Realms.
(
These 3 Higher Realms mainly embroiled in this Suffering of Change although it
pervades too the 3 Lower Realms )
Seeing
how all samsaric existence of the 6 Realms are embroiled in Suffering of Change,
one completely renounces samsara, develops deep compassion for samsaric mother
beings and exerts hard for Enlightenment.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
C
Suffering
of Aggregates
"Our
perfect Teacher teaches that ....."
The
whole of conditioned existence suffers.
Every
unenlightened being are helplessly, ceaselessly manipulated by these 5
Aggregates:
1) Form:
all external material phenomena and one's own senses (contact and interaction
between both)
2) Feelings:
one designates every contact and interaction between external material phenomena
and one's own senses as desirable or undesirable or neutral.
3) Perception:
one begins to label concepts, names, identities to the objects of experience
arising from 'Feelings'.
4) Formational
Responses:
one responds to one's 'Perceptions' through conditioned reactions both mentally
and physically.
5) Consciousness:
this is the underlying cognitive basis which stored the infinite potential
causes due to 'Formational Responses', to ripen into the infinitely varied
results of the 6 Realms.
Seeing
how all the 6 Realms are completely overwhelmed by ceaseless churnings cum
residual-effects of the 5 Aggregates without a single split instance of respite,
one completely renounces samsara, develops deep compassion for samsaric mother
beings and exerts hard for Enlightenment.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! One may do 21 or 108 or more
mantras for each of the Aggregates for deeper understanding of the processes of
the 5 Aggregates )
D
The
12 Links
"Our
perfect Teacher teaches that ....."
All
mother sentient beings ceaselessly embroil in afflicted conditioned existence of
the 6 Realms as a result of undergoing the below:
1)
Ignorance:
mistakenly grasping phenomena as inherently existing
2)
Formational Responses:
creating actions due to 'Ignorance'
3)
Consciousness:
residual effects from 'Formational Responses' get implanted in the underlying
basis as one's Consciousness
4)
Physical Basis:
Consciousness tied up with an acquired Physical Basis such as one's
body.
5)
6 Senses:
The bodily physical basis gives rise to eyes, ears, nose, tongue, touch and
feelings.
6)
Contact:
These 6 Senses establish contact with external phenomena.
7)
Feelings:
One designates experiences from 'Contact' as either desirable, undesirable or
neutral.
8)
Attachment:
One gets attached to the 'Feelings'.
9)
Grasping:
One begins to label, name and identify the objects from which we experience
'Attachment', mistakenly grasping to them as inherently
existing.
10)
Existence:
From 'Grasping', definite 'Existence', cause of rebirth comes into being.
11)
Birth:
Definite birth occurs from 'Existence'.
12)
Death:
Definite death and endless torrents of rebirths ensue from 'Birth'.
Seeing
how all samsaric existence of the 6 Realms are embroiled in suffering as a
result of the 12 Links, one completely renounces samsara, develops deep
compassion for samsaric mother beings and exerts hard for Enlightenment.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! One may do 21 or 108 or more
mantras for each of the links for deeper understanding of the processes of the
12 Links )
[
Here ends the main points dealing with the Sixth Topic of the Lam Rim teachings.
Firmly do it till it becomes your mind. ]
Topic
Six marks the SECOND SCOPE of the Lam Rim Teachings (C the fundamental teachings
(
Renouncing Samsara ) of the Buddha is completed
TOPIC
SEVEN
WISHING
BODHICITTA ( Part One )
(
"The Seven Point Cause-and-Effect for Generating Bodhicitta" )
"Equanimity"
All
beings are perfectly equal from the perspective that they all want to be happy
and do not want to suffer. Moreover, they all have equal rights to be happy and
equal rights to be free from sufferings.
(
Since, we all have equal rights to be happy, i possess only a single "right"
whereas the infinite beings possess infinite" rights to be happy. Since,
numerically, here is "one right" versus "infinite rights", i therefore should
rightly sacrifice my "one right" for achievement of the "infinite rights" to be
happy of all beings !!** )
[
** This section is expanded upon by some masters but is technically not within
the Seven Point Cause-and-Effect for Generating Bodhicitta. ]
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
ONE
"Recognising
all beings as our mothers"
From
eternal past, we have been reborn in countless states in samsara.
Correspondingly, we have had mothers in every of these past states. In fact,
every being has been our mothers countless times in the past.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
TWO
"Remembering
the kindnesses of all our mothers - past and present"
These
mothers, exactly like our mother in this present life, have been infinitely kind
to us. From before we were born, after we were born as toddlers, as teenagers,
as adults and even when old, our mothers would unhestatingly give their lives
for us. Kindnesses of all beings when they were our mothers were exactly the
same as the kindness of our present mother.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
THREE
"Wishing
to repay our mothers' kindnesses"
Remembering
the kindnesses of our mothers, both past and present, we wish sincerely to fully
repay their kindnesses.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
FOUR
"Loving
Joy"
Wishing
to fully repay the kindnesses of our mothers, both past and present, we wish
them every possible happiness and well-being.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
FIVE
"Compassion"
Wishing
to fully repay the kindnesses of our mothers, both past and present, we wish
them to be free from every possible harm or unhappiness.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
SIX
"Universal
Responsibility - the Best Wish"
Wishing
to fully repay the kindnesses of our mothers, both past and present, we,
ourselves, must take up the responsibility to give them every happiness and
well-being and to free them from every harm or
unhappiness.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
SEVEN
"Wishing
Bodhicitta"
Having
taken up the "Universal Responsibility" of wishing to bring all mother senteint
beings every happiness and to free them from every harm, we investigate and come
to the conculsion that even by being an awesome god with marvelous powers or by
being a king / a prime minister / a president in the human realm, we cannot do
so effectively.
Only
by being a Buddha, an omniscient being, a perfectly Enlightened One free from
any defilements and resplendent with inconceivable powers-abilities, wisdom and
compassion, can we most effectively do this. So, we generate the wish that,
through whatever we do, may we attain Buddhahood for the sake of all mother
sentient beings.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
[
Here ends the main points dealing with the Seventh Topic ( Part One ) of all Lam
Rim traditions. Firmly do it till it becomes your mind. ]
WISHING
BODHICITTA ( Part Two )
( "Giving-and-Taking"
for Generating Bodhicitta )
"Equanimity"
All
beings are actually perfectly "equal". We have mistakenly grouped beings into
beings we a) like, b) dislike and c) are neutral.
a)
Beings we like are reflections of our attachment;
b)
Beings we dislike are reflections of our anger and
c)
Beings whom we are neutral to are reflections of our ignorance.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam -
Chenrezig, Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel
the topic has firmly been internalised in your mind
!! )
ONE
"Self-Cherishing
“Cause of all sufferings"
From
eternal past, we have cherished only ourselves. Self-Cherishing is the cause of
all other defilements and pain. Self-Cherishing is why we are still in samsara
undergoing endless sufferings. We must destroy this Self-Cherishing attitude.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam -
Chenrezig, Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel
the topic has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
TWO
"Taking:
Imagine
that this cause of all sufferings - the Self-Cherishing attitude - manifests in
the form of a black dot in the center of our hearts. We breathe in, visualizing
that we completely take on the sufferings of all mother sentient beings ( who
have died for us infinite times throughout incalculable pasts ). These
sufferings are in the forms of black smoke or whatever aspects we fear most.
These aspects enter through our nostrils to the Self-Cherishing attitude in the
form of the black dot in our heart and completely destroy it. We have
successfully destroyed our Self-Cherishing attitude.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam -
Chenrezig, Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel
the topic has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
THREE
"Cherishing-Others
“Cause of all happiness"
For
eternal pasts, the Buddhas have cherished only others. Cherishing-Others is the
cause of all happiness and even Buddhahood. We must bring to complete fruition
this attitude of Cherishing-Others.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam -
Chenrezig, Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel
the topic has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
FOUR
"Giving"
Imagine
that this cause of all happiness - the attitude of Cherishing-Others - manifests
in the form of the most blissful light which appears in the center of our
hearts, after we have destroyed the black dot of Self-Cherishing. We breathe
out, visualizing that we completely give every happiness and good to all mother
sentient beings ( who have died for us infinite times throughout incalculable
pasts ). These happiness and good are in the forms of blissful light or whatever
aspects all beings like most. These light or aspects exit from our nostrils in
complete dedication and love to all mother sentient beings. We have successfully
brought to fruition our attitude of Cherishing-Others.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam -
Chenrezig, Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel
the topic has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
FIVE
**
"Wishing
Bodhicitta"
We
can completely overcome the Self-Cherishing Attitude and completely bring to
fruition the attitude of Cherishing-Others only when we attain Buddhahood. So,
we generate the wish that, through whatever we do, may they be causes for
attaining Buddhahood ( for the sake of all mother sentient beings ).
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam -
Chenrezig, Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel
the topic has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
[
Here ends the main points dealing with the Seventh Topic ( Part Two
) of all Lam Rim traditions. Firmly do it till it becomes your mind.
]
**
Point Five is not included in this topic by some Teachers but is elaborated upon
by others.
TOPIC
EIGHT
APPLICATION
BODHICITTA ( Part One )
(
Perfection of Generosity )
ONE
"Materials"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings. So I provide
every possible material-generosity to accumulate Merit for attainment of
Buddhahood. [ Giving of financial support / food etc ]
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
TWO
"Fearlessness"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings. So I give every
possible Fearlessness to accumulate Merit for attainment of Buddhahood. [ Saving
lives / words of assurances etc ]
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
THREE
"Dharma"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings. So I share the
Dharma wherever possible to accumulate Merit for attainment of Buddhahood. [
Sharing Dharma: supporting Dharma programmes / printing Dharma texts / sharing
etc ]
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
[
Here ends the main points dealing with the Eighth Topic ( Part One ) of all Lam
Rim traditions. Carry them out wherever possible. ]
APPLICATION
BODHICITTA ( Part Two )
(
Perfection of Commitment-Ethics )
ONE
"Do
No Harm"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings. So I observe the
commitment of completely avoiding causing harm to any beings to accumulate Merit
for attainment of Buddhahood.
[
No killing / gossiping etc ]
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
TWO
"Benefit"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings. So I observe the
commitment of benefitting any beings wherever possible to accumulate Merit for
attainment of Buddhahood.
[
Helping / comforting etc ]
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
THREE
"Merit-Dharma"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings. So I observe the
commitment of accumulating Merit and exerting in Dharma practices wherever
possible to accumulate Merit for attainment of Buddhahood.
[
Reading texts / prostrations etc. ]
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
[
Here ends the main points dealing with the Eighth Topic ( Part Two ) of all Lam
Rim traditions. Carry them out wherever possible. ]
APPLICATION
BODHICITTA ( Part Three )
(
Perfection of Patience )
ONE
"Individual"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings. So I am patient
in the face of harm in specific context/s and / or from respective being/s to
accumulate Merit for attainment of Buddhahood.
[
Patient to scary colleagues / in work etc ]
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
TWO
"Samsaric-General"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings. So I am patient
towards samsaric difficulties to accumulate Merit for attainment of Buddhahood.
[
Patient towards sicknesses / dying / bad weather / making-a-living etc
]
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
THREE
"Dharma"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings. So I am patient
towards every difficulty that arises in the practicing of Dharma to accumulate
Merit for attainment of Buddhahood.
[
Patient in listening to teachings / prostrations etc ]
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
[
Here ends the main points dealing with the Eighth Topic ( Part Three ) of all
Lam Rim traditions. Carry them out wherever possible. ]
;
APPLICATION
BODHICITTA ( Part Four )
(
Perfection of Joyful-Perseverance )
ONE
"Against
Laziness"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings. So I joyfully
persevere in all Dharma against Laziness or 'will not do' to accumulate Merit
for attainment of Buddhahood.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
TWO
"Against
No-Confidence"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings. So I joyfully
persevere in all Dharma against No-Confidence or 'cannot do' to accumulate Merit
for attainment of Buddhahood.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
THREE
"Against
Samsaric-Attachment"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings. So I joyfully
persevere in giving up attachment to samsaric pleasures to accumulate Merit for
attainment of Buddhahood.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
[
Here ends the main points dealing with the Eighth Topic ( Part Four ) of all Lam
Rim traditions. Carry them out wherever possible. ]
;
APPLICATION
BODHICITTA ( Part Five )
(
Perfection of Meditation )
ONE
"Calm
Abiding"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings. So I achieve
single-pointed concentration upon an object etc and to calmly abide within this
concentration to accumulate Merit for attainment of Buddhahood.
[
Concentrate and calmly abide upon a Buddha-form / flower / one's breath
movements etc ]
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
TWO
"Mindfulness"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings. So, based upon
Calm Abiding, I am mindful of an object etc and abide without grasping or
rejecting them, to accumulate Merit, leading into Wisdom, for attainment of
Buddhahood.
[
Basing upon Calm Abiding, being Mindful of arising-ceasing of thoughts,
phenomena etc. ]
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
[
Here ends the main points dealing with the Eighth Topic ( Part Five ) of all Lam
Rim traditions. Carry them out wherever possible. ]
APPLICATION
BODHICITTA ( Part Six )
(
Perfection of Wisdom )
ONE
"Worldly"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings.
So
I learn every possible worldly knowledge helpful as a step towards accumulation
of Wisdom for attainment of Buddhahood.
[
Learning and practicing courtesy / sciences / arts etc. ]
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
TWO
"Mind-Impute"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings.
I
recognize the view that every phenomenon exists only conventionally as mentally
imputed object/s; in the ultimate sense, every phenomena is "empty" as it needs
to be mentally-imputed for its identification.
I
rest in this view so as to accumulate Wisdom for attainment of
Buddhahood.
[
Basing upon the Fifth Perfection, to recognize that: water is nectar for the
gods / water is water for humans / water is pus and dirt for hungry ghosts /
etc. Mercedes Benz is recognized and looked up to in Singapore but means
completely different to Papua tribesmen etc. Concept of beauty is relative to
the culture etc. ]
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
THREE
"Component-Make-Up"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings.
So
I recognize the view that every phenomenon exists only conventionally when
aggregated upon its component parts; in the ultimate sense, every phenomenon is
"empty" as it needs its component parts to establish its existence.
I
rest in this view so as to accumulate Wisdom for attainment of
Buddhahood.
[
Basing upon the Fifth Perfection, to recognize that: a table can only be a table
if the legs and top are in place / a car can only be a car if the wheels, seats,
engine etc are in place / likewise for all phenomena etc. ]
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
FOUR
"Inter-dependence"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings.
So
I recognize the view that every phenomenon exists only conventionally in
inter-dependence upon other external phenomena; in the ultimate sense, every
phenomenon is "empty" as it cannot establish its existence without reliance upon
other phenomena.
I
rest in this view so as to accumulate Wisdom for attainment of
Buddhahood.
[
Basing upon the Fifth Perfection, to recognize that: there cannot be male
without female / there cannot be good without bad etc ]
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
[
Here ends the main points dealing with the Eighth Topic ( Part Six ) of all Lam
Rim traditions. Carry them out wherever possible. ]
*Lam
Rim Bonus
The
first Four Perfections ( ETHICS ) are the strength against delusion-suffering.
The
1st Fifth Perfection: "Calm Abiding" ( MEDITATION I ) takes accurate
aim at delusion-suffering.
The
2nd Fifth Perfection: "Mindfulness" ( MEDITATION II ) is the tool for
hitting delusion-suffering.
The
6th Perfection: "Wisdom" ( WISDOM ) actually hits and destroys
delusion-suffering.
TOPIC
NINE
UNCOMMON
BODHICITTA
ONE
"Perfection
of Generosity"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings. So I give rise
to Wishing Bodhicitta: I want to attain Buddhahood for highest good of
mother beings.
Then
I engage in Application Bodhicitta of the Perfection of Generosity to
accumulate Merit for attainment of Buddhahood.
However,
I need to use countless eons in this practice and mother beings are all
suffering in the meantime. I cannot bear their suffering. So I give rise to
Uncommon Bodhicitta: I want to attain Buddhahood fastest
possible for highest good of mother beings.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
TWO
"Perfection
of Commitment-Ethics"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings. So I give rise
to Wishing Bodhicitta: I want to attain Buddhahood for highest good of
mother beings.
Then
I engage in Application Bodhicitta of the Perfection of Commitment-Ethics
to accumulate Merit for attainment of Buddhahood.
However,
I need to use countless eons in this practice and mother beings are all
suffering in the meantime. I cannot bear their suffering. So I give rise to
Uncommon Bodhicitta: I want to attain Buddhahood fastest
possible for highest good of mother beings.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
THREE
"Perfection
of Patience"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings. So I give rise
to Wishing Bodhicitta: I want to attain Buddhahood for highest good of
mother beings.
Then
I engage in Application Bodhicitta of the Perfection of Patience to
accumulate Merit for attainment of Buddhahood.
However,
I need to use countless eons in this practice and mother beings are all
suffering in the meantime. I cannot bear their suffering. So I give rise to
Uncommon Bodhicitta: I want to attain Buddhahood fastest
possible for highest good of mother beings.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
FOUR
"Perfection
of Joyful-Perseverance"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings. So I give rise
to Wishing Bodhicitta: I want to attain Buddhahood for highest good of
mother beings.
Then
I engage in Application Bodhicitta of the Perfection of
Joyful-Perseverance to accumulate Merit for attainment of Buddhahood.
However,
I need to use countless eons in this practice and mother beings are all
suffering in the meantime. I cannot bear their suffering. So I give rise to
Uncommon Bodhicitta: I want to attain Buddhahood fastest
possible for highest good of mother beings.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
FIVE
"Perfection
of Meditation"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings. So I give rise
to Wishing Bodhicitta: I want to attain Buddhahood for highest good of
mother beings.
Then
I engage in Application Bodhicitta of the Perfection of Meditation to
accumulate Merit for attainment of Buddhahood.
However,
I need to use countless eons in this practice and mother beings are all
suffering in the meantime. I cannot bear their suffering. So I give rise to
Uncommon Bodhicitta: I want to attain Buddhahood fastest
possible for highest good of mother beings.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
SIX
"Perfection
of Wisdom"
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings. So I give rise
to Wishing Bodhicitta: I want to attain Buddhahood for highest good of
mother beings.
Then
I engage in Application Bodhicitta of the Perfection of Wisdom to
accumulate Wisdom for attainment of Buddhahood.
However,
I need to use countless eons in this practice and mother beings are all
suffering in the meantime. I cannot bear their suffering. So I give rise to
Uncommon Bodhicitta: I want to attain Buddhahood fastest
possible for highest good of mother beings.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
[
Here ends the main points dealing with the Ninth Topic of all Lam Rim
traditions. Firmly do it till it becomes your mind. ]
*Additional
Lam Rim Notes:
Students
could apply generating the Uncommon Bodhicitta to each of the sub-topic of, or
in general, as a whole, to Application Bodhicitta.
UNCOMMON
BODHICITTA
To
attain Buddhahood is the best way to benefit all mother beings. So I give rise
to Wishing Bodhicitta: I want to attain Buddhahood for highest good of
mother beings.
Then
I engage in Application Bodhicitta of all Six Perfections of Generosity /
Commitment-Ethics / Patience / Joyful-Perseverance / Meditation and Wisdom to
accumulate Merit and Wisdom for attainment of Buddhahood.
However,
I need to use countless eons in this practice and mother beings are all
suffering in the meantime. I cannot bear their suffering. So I give rise to
Uncommon Bodhicitta: I want to attain Buddhahood fastest
possible for highest good of mother beings.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind !! )
TOPIC
TEN
THE
TANTRIC TEACHER
PREPARATORY
( succicnt )
ONE
May
I find a qualified Teacher. ( See Lam Rim's First Topic - Guru Yoga ).
TWO
May
I serve the precious Teacher that He or She lacks no necessities of
life.
THREE
May
I take the appropriate empowerments and teachings and receive the vows and
commitments from the precious Teacher.
FOUR
May
I learn, practise and keep the practices and vows carefully like how you will
"protect your eyes" from harm.
PREPARATORY
( detailed )
ONE
"A
Qualified Teacher"
To
attain Buddhahood fastest possible for highest good of all mother beings, I need
to practise the Buddha's Tantric Teachings. First, I will need to look for and
rely on a qualified Tantric Teacher.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind and until you have found the qualified
Teacher/s !! )
TWO
"Serve
Him"
To
attain Buddhahood fastest possible for highest good of all mother beings, I need
to practise the Buddha's Tantric Teachings. First, I have found a qualified
Tantric Teacher. Now, I must serve Him or Her and see that he / she does not
lack any necessities of living.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind and until you have served the
Teacher/s to your best !! )
THREE
"Receive
Teachings"
To
attain Buddhahood fastest possible for highest good of all mother beings, I need
to practise the Buddha's Tantric Teachings. First, I have found a qualified
Tantric Teacher. Then, I have served Him or Her and seen that he / she does not
lack any necessities of living. Next, I need to receive all the necessary
Tantric Empowerments / Oral Transmissions / Instructions in the best manner
possible.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind and until you have received the
teachings in the best manner possible !! )
FOUR
"Maintain
the Teachings"
To
attain Buddhahood fastest possible for highest good of all mother beings, I need
to practise the Buddha's Tantric Teachings. First, I have found a qualified
Tantric Teacher. Then, I have served Him or Her and seen that he / she does not
lack any necessities of living. Next, I have received all the necessary Tantric
Empowerments / Oral Transmissions / Instructions in the best manner possible.
Finally, I will try my best to practise and maintain all I have received.
(
While contemplating the above, do 108 times mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind and until you have maintained the
teachings in the best manner possible !! )
[
Here ends the main points dealing with the Tenth Topic of all Lam Rim
traditions. Firmly do it till it becomes your mind. ]
*Additional
Lam Rim Notes:
Important
Notes & Clarification on Topics related to “The Teacher"
A
qualified Tantric Teacher will need to have trained and mastered all the Lam Rim
and Tantric teachings. He will need to have permission of His own Teacher/s to
transmit what he has learnt. He will also need to be possessed of all the
qualities of a qualified Buddhist Teacher.
Elaboration
on the above:
I.
http://www.casotac.com/CASonline%20Articles/02082008.html
II.
http://www.casotac.com/CASonline%20Articles/17082008.html
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
GENERATION
STAGE
ONE:
Gross Generation
Buddhahood
is the pan-ultimate state of Love, Wisdom and Power. May I become a Buddha as
this is the best way to benefit all mother beings.
Seeing
this, may I completely give all my lives, incalculable aeons into eternity, for
practice of the Six Perfections ( Common Bodhicitta ) so that I can attain the
state of Buddhahood, not for myself, but solely for good of all.
However,
I cannot bear the infinite sufferings of my mother beings whilst I am engaged in
the practice of the Six Perfections Seeing this, may I engage in the practices
of the Vajrayana so that I can attain the state of Buddhahood in the fastest way
possible, not for myself, but solely for good of all. ( Uncommon Bodhicitta
)
Using
the Accomplishment Text ( Sadhana ) of my Meditational Deity ( Yidam ), out of
Uncommon Bodhicitta, may I generate, meditate and rest stably while alert, in
this state on myself, beings and phenomena as the Yidam / Mandala, at the
appropriate point-section as shown in the text/s.
Through
this, may I, not for myself but solely for good of all my mother beings,
skilfully enact the divine activities of a Buddha through Pacification,
Enrichment, Magnetising-Power, and Wrath.
Through
this, too, may I transform every samsaric appearances and activities into divine
visions.
Through
this, as well, may I accumulate ;inconceivable merit with offerings and other
such like practices in the Generation Stage.
(
While meditating, if
you have received the requisite teaching/s and empowerment/s, or aspiring,
if you have not received the requisite teaching/s and empowerment/s, on
the above, do 21 / 108 or more times, the mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind. Or you can simply meditate or aspire
without the mantras !! )
TWO:
Subtle Generation
Buddhahood
is the pan-ultimate state of Love, Wisdom and Power. May I become a Buddha as
this is the best way to benefit all mother beings.
Seeing
this, may I completely give all my lives, incalculable aeons into eternity, for
practice of the Six Perfections ( Common Bodhicitta ) so that I can attain the
state of Buddhahood, not for myself, but solely for good of all.
However,
I cannot bear the infinite sufferings of my mother beings whilst I am engaged in
the practice of the Six Perfections Seeing this, may I engage in the practices
of the Vajrayana so that I can attain the state of Buddhahood in the fastest way
possible, not for myself, but solely for good of all. ( Uncommon Bodhicitta
)
Using
the Accomplishment Text ( Sadhana ) of my Meditational Deity ( Yidam ) AND / OR
instructions from my precious Teacher/s, out of Uncommon Bodhicitta, may I
generate, meditate and rest stably while alert, of myself as the Yidam/s in the
Mandala in the Subtle Drop of the Chakras of the Jewel Tip, the Navel, the
Heart, the Throat Center OR the Crown, for as long as I can, clearly seeing
every feature of myself as the Yidam in the Mandala, even the white of the
eyes.
(
While meditating, if
you have received the requisite ;teaching/s and empowerment/s, or aspiring,
if you have not received the requisite teaching/s and empowerment/s, on
the above, do 21 / 108 or more times, the mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind. Or you can simply meditate or aspire
without the mantras !! )
THREE:
Imagining "Transformation"
Using
the Accomplishment Text ( Sadhana ) of my Meditational Deity ( Yidam ) AND / OR
instructions from my precious Teacher/s, may I, at the correct point-section of
the practice, imagine recognition of the Four Visions and the Four
Empties.
May
I master this is the CRITICAL section of the Generation Stage and apply them at
the appropriate section-points in the first section as without applying this
stage, Generation Stage practices become obsolete.
1)
First Vision: "Mirage-like Vision"
§
May
I imagine recognition of the "Mirage-like Vision" when I imagine all phenomena
dissolves into myself as the Yidam.
§
At
this point, may I imagine that the Earth Element dissolves into the Water
Element during the Death Process.
§
May
I now imagine that I will feel like sinking into the earth.
§
I
will feel no fear and will remember Bodhicitta, my Teacher and the Three Jewels
of Refuge.
§
Most
importantly, based on this relatively subtler mind that has arisen, I will
meditate on Emptiness.
( Rest
at this stage while meditating or reciting the mantras )
2)
Second Vision: "Smoke-like Vision"
§
May
I imagine recognition of the "Smoke-like Vision" when I imagine myself as the
Yidam dissolving into the Root Mantra Syllable in the Subtle Drop of the Chakra
of the Heart.
§
At
this point may I imagine that the Water Element dissolves into the Fire Element
during the Death Process.
§
May
I now imagine that my mouth and body will feel dry.
§
May
I recollect well what has come before and anticipate what will come following.
§
I
will feel no fear and will remember Bodhicitta, my Teacher and the Three Jewels
of Refuge.
§
Most
importantly, based on this relatively subtler mind that has arisen, I will
meditate on Emptiness.
( Rest
at this stage while meditating or reciting the mantras )
3)
Third Vision: "Firefly Vision"
§
May
I imagine recognition of the "Firefly Vision" when I imagine the appropriate
part of the Root Mantra dissolves.
§
At
this point may I imagine that the Fire Element dissolves into the Wind Element
during the Death Process.
§
May
I now imagine that I will feel cold as warmth recedes from my body.
§
May
I recollect well what has come before and anticipate what will come following.
§
I
will feel no fear and will remember Bodhicitta, my Teacher and the Three Jewels
of Refuge.
§
Most
importantly, based on this relatively subtler mind that has arisen, I will
meditate on Emptiness.
( Rest
at this stage while meditating or reciting the mantras )
4)
Fourth Vision: "Flickering-lamp Vision"
§
May
I imagine recognition of the "Flickering-lamp Vision" when I imagine the
appropriate part of the Root Mantra dissolves.
§
At
this point may I imagine that the Wind Element dissolves into Consciousness
during the Death Process.
§
May
I now imagine I will stop breathing and my relatives and friends may start
wailing here.
§
May
I recollect well what has come before and anticipate what will come following.
§
I
will feel no fear or attachment and will remember Bodhicitta, my Teacher and the
Three Jewels of Refuge.
§
Most
importantly, based on this relatively subtler mind that has arisen, I will
meditate on Emptiness.
( Rest
at this stage while meditating or reciting the mantras )
5)
First Empty: "White Vision"
§
May
I imagine recognition of the "White Vision" when I imagine the appropriate part
of the Root Mantra dissolves.
§
At
this point may I imagine that all the knots in the upper Chakras are released
and the White Element descends from the Crown Chakra till it stops at the Heart
Chakra.
§
May
I imagine that I will now experience very great bliss and will utilise ! this
bli ss to realise Emptiness.
§
May
I recollect well what has come before and anticipate what will come following.
§
I
will feel no fear or attachment and will remember Bodhicitta, my Teacher and the
Three Jewels of Refuge.
§
Most
importantly, based on this relatively subtler mind that has arisen, I will
meditate on Emptiness.
(
Rest at this stage while meditating or reciting the mantras )
6)
Second Empty: "Red Vision"
§
May
I imagine recognition of the "Red Vision" when I imagine the appropriate part of
the Root Mantra dissolves.
§
At
this point may I imagine that all the knots in the lower Chakras are released
and the Red Element ascends from the Navel Chakra till it stops at the Heart
Chakra.
§
May
I imagine that I will now experience an even higher bliss and will utilise this
bliss to realise Emptiness.
§
May
I recollect well what has come before and anticipate what will come following.
§
I
will feel no fear or attachment and will remember Bodhicitta, my Teacher and the
Three Jewels of Refuge.
§
Most
importantly, based on this relatively subtler mind that has arisen, I will
meditate on Emptiness.
(
Rest at this stage while meditating or reciting the mantras )
7)
Third Empty: "Black Vision"
§
May
I imagine recognition of the "Black Vision" when I imagine the appropriate part
of the Root Mantra dissolves.
§
At
this point may I imagine that all the knots in the Chakras are released and the
White and Red Elements meet and enter the Heart Chakra.
§
May
I imagine that I will now experience an even higher bliss and will utilise this
bliss to realise Emptiness.
§
May
I recollect well what has come before and anticipate what will come following.
§
I
will feel no fear or attachment and will remember Bodhicitta, my Teacher and the
Three Jewels of Refuge.
§
Most
importantly, based on this relatively subtler mind that has arisen, I will
meditate on Emptiness.
(
Rest at this stage while meditating or reciting the mantras )
8)
Fourth Empty: "Clear Light Vision"
§
May
I imagine recognition of the "Clear Light Vision" when I imagine the appropriate
part of the Root Mantra dissolves into Emptiness.
§
At
this point may I imagine that all the knots in the Chakras are released and the
White and Red Elements completely dissolve into the most subtle Drop of the
Heart Chakra.
§
May
I imagine that I will now experience the highest bliss possible and will utilise
this bliss to realise Emptiness.
§
May
I recollect well what has come before and anticipate what will come following.
§
I
will feel no fear or attachment and will remember Bodhicitta, my Teacher and the
Three Jewels of Refuge.
§
Most
importantly, based on this relatively subtler mind that has arisen, I will
meditate on and realise Emptiness, achieving
Enlightenment.
(
Rest at this stage while meditating or reciting the mantras )
Actual
Transformation
I)
Death into Dharmakaya
·
May
I imagine that I have successfully utilised Clear Light to realise Emptiness and
hence I imagine that I have transformed Death into Dharmakaya.
·
May
I imagine that I have unbearable compassion for all mother beings whom I cannot
help as they cannot see me in my state of Dharmakaya. Only Buddhas can perceive
each other in Dharmakaya aspects.
·
May
I imagine that I will, out of unbearable compassion, arise into the state of
Sambhogakaya to help all mother beings.
(
Rest at this stage while meditating or reciting the mantras )
II)
Bardo into Sambhogakaya
·
May
I imagine that I will, out of unbearable compassion, enter into the Bardo from
Death, in the form of the appropriate form, divine implement or mantric syllable
of my Yidam.
·
May
I imagine that by doing so, I have successfully transformed Bardo into
Sambhogakaya.
·
May
I imagine that I have unbearable compassion for all mother beings whom I cannot
help as they cannot see me in my state of Sambhogakaya. Only Buddhas and Tenth
Stage Bodhisattvas can perceive each other in
Sambhogakaya.
·
May
I imagine that I will, out of unbearable compassion, arise into the state of
Nirmanakaya to help all mother beings.
(
Rest at this stage while meditating or reciting the mantras )
III)
Birth into Nirmanakaya
·
May
I imagine that I will, out of unbearable compassion, enter into Birth from the
Bardo, in the form of the Yidam in the Mandala.
·
May
I imagine that by doing so, I have successfully transformed Birth into
Nirmanakaya.
·
May
I imagine that I can now skilfully enact all the divine activities of a Buddha
for the highest good of all mother beings as a Buddha in the supreme Nirmanakaya
aspect.
(
Rest at this stage while meditating or reciting the mantras )
(
While meditating, if
you have received the requisite teaching/s and empowerment/s, or aspiring,
if you have not received the requisite teaching/s and empowerment/s, on
the above, do 21 / 108 or more times, the mantra of your Yidam - Chenrezig,
Tara, Yamantaka or others. Or you can do the mantras until you feel the topic
has firmly been internalised in your mind. Or you can simply meditate or aspire
without the mantras !! )
Sarva
Mangalam!
May
all be well and auspicious!