The Collected Works of Dilgo Khyentse, Volume Three

Book excerpt: This three-volume set presents the collected works of one of the great luminaries of Tibetan Buddhism in our time, published to mark his centennial celebration. A complete exposition of the stages of the Buddhist path is presented through Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche's commentaries on the root texts of classic Tibetan masters including Patrul Rinpoche, Jigme Lingpa, Shechen Gyaltsab, and Mipham Rinpoche. Originally given orally to Western students, the texts afford a rare glimpse into the direct transmissions of a master teacher. Moreover, several of the texts have never been published before. Volume three expands on the inner core of the Vajrayana teachings and contemplative retreat practice. It begins with a guide to authentic spiritual practice that combines the wisdom of three of the greatest masters of the Tibetan tradition. This is followed by a witty manual of advice for solitary retreat; discussion of the four empowerments and the three samadhis; a commentary on an important dzogchen text; and quintessential teachings on the ultimate nature of the mind. The volume concludes with a selection from the few poems by Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche that have been translated into English. All but one of the books in this volume is published here for the first time. Volume Three Contents: Zurchungpa's Testament, A Wondrous Ocean of Advice for the Practice of Retreat in Solitude, Pure Appearance, Primordial Purity, The Lamp That Dispels Darkness, Selected Verse