Gems of Wisdom (2014-2015)
Short talks on Gems of Wisdom, a thought-training text by the Seventh Dalai Lama.
Root Text
Gems of Wisdom translated by Glenn H. Mullin is available from Shambhala Publications here.
Verse 25: The negative omen of exaggeration
Exaggerating the good qualities of objects we are attached to can only bring suffering.
View PostVerse 26: Small negativities, strong poisons
Small transgressions in ethical conduct can reap large results, so be careful of even the smallest unwholesome actions.
View PostVerse 27: Guarding our spiritual precepts
The right mindset to cultivate when we voluntarily take and keep precepts in order to progress along the spiritual path.
View PostVerse 28: Getting rid of body odor
It is difficult to challenge the wrong views and assumptions that we take for granted based on our social conditioning.
View PostVerse 29: Vulgar and insensitive actions
Lack of consideration for others mars their impression of us and harms our relationships.
View PostVerse 30: The navigator in samsara
Karma and afflictions lead us by the nose. We need to take responsibility for creating the causes for full awakening.
View PostVerse 31: The invisible disease
Our refusal to acknowledge and accept the process of aging and sickness is a cause of our suffering.
View PostVerse 32: The master executioner
Death is definite. It is important to practice virtue and avoid non-virtue while we still have this precious human life.
View PostVerse 33: The one who suffers the most
The perpetrator of a harmful action is experiencing suffering, and also creating the causes for future suffering.
View PostVerse 34: The most evil of all beings in the world
Those who abuse their strength and power cause tremendous suffering and waste the good karma they created in past lives.
View PostVerse 35: The biggest loser
By not following the law of karma we will only lose out by creating suffering for ourselves and others.
View PostVerse 36: The slave owned by everyone in the world
The mind that lacks self-confidence swings between people-pleasing behavior and arrogance.
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