Insights into traditional practices within the Kadampa Kagyu lineage

Adele Tomlin transcribed this teaching delivered by the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, on the third day of the Fifty Verses on the Guru teaching.

Despite a delay due to illness, the Karmapa persevered, elucidating the challenges he faced and affirming the significance of imparting sacred teachings despite obstacles.

Delving into early commentaries by Tibetan master Drogön Chögyal Phagpa and Indian/Sanskrit sources, the teaching provided a unique perspective often overlooked in contemporary discourse.

The focus centered on understanding the homage to ‘Glorious Vajrasattva’ (Palden Dorje Sempa), exploring profound meanings embedded in each term.

Insights into traditional practices within the Kadampa Kagyu lineage were shared, underscoring the strict adherence to secrecy and personal instruction.

Emphasizing the importance of prostrating to the guru and the essence of true application and practice, the teaching echoed the 17th Karmapa’s dedication to imparting knowledge for the benefit of all beings, evoking deep reverence and gratitude.

https://youtu.be/fqDKlA7889Y

References

• THE TRANSLATOR’S HOMAGE TO VAJRASATTVA AND ‘SECRET MUDRAS UNDER THE ROBES’: opening stanza, homage to and meaning of the word ‘Vajrasattva’, reason for composing the texts, and the importance of secrecy in secret mantra practice and the meaning of ‘bowing down to the lotus feet of the guru’ (Fifty Verses on the Guru, Day 3, 17th Karmapa)