With Vajrasattva as the perfect companion, we review our past, rejoicing in our success and identifying the actions we’d like to transform as we move forward.
On vacation with Vajrasattva
Series: Vajrasattva Retreat (Boulder Creek 2010-11)
Teachings by Venerable Thubten Chodron and Tenzin Kacho Kiyosaki given during the the Vajrasattva Retreat at Vajrapani Institute in Boulder Creek, California, from December 28, 2010, to January 1, 2011.
Introduction to the practice
Body awareness and breathing meditation, followed by recitation of the refuge prayer and a look at what it means to take refuge.
Investigating blame
Meditation to investigate what it means to blame, its effect on our lives, and ways to see ourselves and others without the hindrance of blame.
Confession of negativities
Explanation of Vajrasattva’s mantra, the meaning of purification, and instruction on the general confession.
Our motivation for practice
Discovering what truly gives our life purpose by setting a motivation that equals our potential.
Purifying heavy karma
Purifying karma created in relation to special objects such as the Three Jewels, spiritual mentors, and parents; as well as how death motivates purification.
The power of restoring the relationship
Restoring the relationship with holy and ordinary beings starts with recognizing the harm we’ve done and transforming the way we engage with others.
Generating regret
Teachings from Shantideva’s text continue with ways to generate regret, through the contemplation of death and impermanence, for harmful actions we have done.
The four opponent powers
Concluding the exploration of the four opponent powers through study of Chapter 2 of Shantideva’s “The Way of the Bodhisattva.”