Jigme Lingpa - Deity, Mantra, and Wisdom: Development Stage Meditation in Tibetan Buddhist Tantra

DescriptionDeity, Mantra, and Wisdom contains four of the most cherished Tibetan Buddhist commentaries on the practices of visualization, mantra recitation, and meditative absorption. These three elements form the core of development stage meditation, one of the most important practices of Buddhist Tantra. The authors of these timeless classicsJigme Lingpa, Patrul Rinpoche, and Getse Mahapanditahave all profoundly shaped Tibetan Buddhism with their vast scholarship and deep spiritual realization. In these eloquent and inspiring writings, they explain the fundamental philosophy of the development stage, showing not only its profound insights into the nature of reality, but also how to make this view a living experience through the practice of meditation.The four works here translated for the first time are: Ladder to Akanistha by Jigme Lingpa, Clarifying the Difficult Points in the Development Stage by Patrul Rinpoche, The Four Stakes That Bind the Life-Force by Patrul Rinpoche, and Husks of Unity by Getse Mahapandita Tsewang Chokdrub.ReviewThe development stage is one of the central practices of Buddhist Tantra. The texts contained in this volume are among the most widely studied commentaries on this topic and have formed the basis for spiritual study and practice for centuries. . . . I feel blessed to have the writings of Dza Patrul Rinpoche, which express even the most profound Dharma in the most ordinary language. His writings have always accompanied me on the path like a compassionate master by my side. I have no doubt these precious texts will benefit many people as they have benefited me.Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche, director of The Cup and Travellers and MagiciansThe Vajrayana tradition is rich in authentic scriptures written by realized masters. This book presents four of the most authoritative and widely studied works from the Nyingma School, elucidating the Tantric practices of deity visualization, mantra recitation, and meditation. For anyone interested in these profound practices, especially those engaged in retreat, these texts are essential reading.Erik Pema Kunsang, translator of Wellsprings of the Great PerfectionFrom the Back CoverDeity, Mantra and Wisdom contains four of the most cherished Tibetan Buddhist commentaries on the practices of visualization, mantra recitation, and meditative absorption. These three elements form the core of development stage meditation, one of the most important practices of Buddhist Tantra. The authors of these timeless classics--Jigme Lingpa, Patrul Rinpoche, and Getse Mahapandita--have all profoundly shaped Tibetan Buddhism with their vast scholarship and deep spiritual realization. In these eloquent and inspiring writings, they explain the fundamental philosophy of the development stage, showing not only its profound insights into the nature of reality, but also how to make this view a living experience through the practice of meditation.Deity, Mantra, and Wisdom presents four Tibetan classics that elucidate the philosophy and practice of visualization, mantra recitation, and meditative absorption--three elements know collectively as development stage meditation. These four works, here translated for the first time, are:Ladder to Akanistha by Jigme Lingpa Clarifying the Difficult Points in the Development Stage by Patrul Rinpoche The Four Stakes That Bind the Life-Force by Patrul Rinpoche Husks of Unity by Getse Mahapandita Tsewang ChokdrubThe development stage is one of the central practices of Buddhist Tantra. The texts contained in this volume are among the most widely studied commentaries on this topic and have formed the basis for spiritual study and practice for centuries.As I am certain that I am unable to gain enlightenment in one lifetime, my great fear is to be reborn in a place where there are no writings of Jigme Lingpa. His texts are like a manifestation of the great master himself. Even opening a page at random yields wisdom appropriate to our practice at the time. And for ordinary beings like me, the Dharma often appears unfathomable. So I feel blessed to have the writings of Dza Patrul Rinpoche, which express even the most profound Dharma in the most ordinary language. His writings have always accompanied me on the path, like a compassionate master by my side. I have no doubt these precious texts will benefit many people, as they have benefited me.--Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche, director of The Cup and Travellers & MagiciansThe Vajrayana tradition is rich in authentic scriptures written by realized masters. This book presents four of the most authoritative and widely studied works from the Nyingma School elucidating the Tantric practices of deity visualization, mantra recitation, and meditation. For anyone interested in these profound practices, especially those engaged in retreat, these texts are essential reading.--Erik Pema Kunsang, translator of Wellsprings of the Great PerfectionJigme Lingpa (1730-1798) was one of the great saints of eighteenth century Tibet. His profound spiritual revelations and erudite writings have proven to be some of the most enduring classics of the Buddhist tradition. To this day, they continue to inspire others to lead a life of meditation.Patrul Rinpoche (1808-1887) lived his life as a wandering yogi devoted to the practice of meditation. An accomplished scholar and prolific writer, he has won the hearts of many with his rare ability to present profound philosophical thought in a manner directly applicable to personal practice.Getse Mahapandita Tsewang Chokdrub (1761-1829) revitalized the tradition of the Nyingma School through his commitment to the study and preservation of the Ancient Tantras and the revival of many Nyingma monasteries. Among his extensive literary works, his commentaries on the development stage have become central reading for numerous practitioners of Buddhist Tantra.The Dharmachakra Translation Committee draws its inspiration from the vision, commitment, and magnificent achievements of past Buddhist translators. Directed by Chkyi Nyima Rinpoche, the Committee is dedicated to making Buddhist classics available to modern readers in their native languages.About the AuthorGetse Mahapandita Tsewang Chokdrub (17611829) revitalized the tradition of the Nyingma School through his commitment to the study and preservation of the Ancient Tantras and the revival of many Nyingma monasteries. Among his extensive literary works, his commentaries on the development stage have become central reading for numerous practitioners of Buddhist Tantra.