Gradual Path to Enlightenment (1991-94)
In the early 11th century, the Indian Buddhist master Atisha condensed essential points from the sutras and ordered them into the text Lamp of the Path. These were then expanded upon in the 14th century by the Tibetan Buddhist master Lama Tsongkhapa in The Great Exposition on the Gradual Path to Enlightenment (Lamrim Chenmo). Venerable Thubten Chodron comments on this text and relates these practical teachings to our daily lives. Teachings given at Dharma Friendship Foundation 1991-1994.
Disadvantages of not thinking of death
Venerable Thubten Chodron Considering the disadvantages of not thinking about death motivates us to make use of this precious human life and not waste our potential on worldly…
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Detaching from the eight worldly concerns
Learning to counter attachment to the eight worldly concerns by examining the 10 innermost jewels of the Kadam tradition.
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Meditation on death
Understanding the importance of contemplating death for the Buddhist practitioner, using the nine-step meditation on death.
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Meditations on impermanence and death
Explanation of the gross and subtle impermanence, and followed by detailed instruction on how to meditate on our own and others' deaths.
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The lower realms
An in-depth look at the lower realms, the causes for rebirth there, and the benefits of contemplating them.
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Objects of refuge
Why take refuge? The meaning of refuge, the objects of refuge, and the relevance of taking refuge.
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A Buddha’s body and speech
Knowing about the qualities and skills of a Buddha's body and speech can aid us in our daily practice.
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Qualities of a Buddha’s mind
Wisdom and compassion are the two basic qualities of a Buddha's mind.
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Qualities of the Three Jewels
The qualities of the Three Jewels in which we take refuge: the Buddha's enlightening influence, the Dharma's true path and true cessation, and the Sangha's…
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Spiritual practice transforms us
Enlightenment is not a static state of mind, but rather a dynamic, transformative experience that changes the way we interact with the world.
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Benefits of having taken refuge
We become Buddhists, establish the foundation for all further vows. Eliminate negative and accumulate positive karma.
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