Dharma Teachings

His Holiness the 43rd Sakya Trizin, Gyana Vajra Rinpoche, shared this advice before imparting the two-day Vajrakīlaya empowerment at the request of Tsechen Kunchab Ling in Walden, New York, U.S.A., on April 6-7, 2019.

Although this teaching was given on a particular occasion to prepare students for a Vajrakīlaya empowerment, its insights will be helpful to all Dharma students. It may be  especially interesting to seasoned students. His Holiness combines personal insight with authentic Dharma to discuss topics like the afflictive emotions, the nature of mental training, emptiness and the two truths, and the rationale behind an empowerment ceremony. He points to our tendency to dismiss our teachers’ emphasis on basic teachings, especially the pervasiveness of suffering, urging us to take them seriously. Then, he clarifies the meaning of blessings in rituals and teachings. Brief and agile, the teaching offers a rich perspective on authentic Buddhadharma.

Source: The teaching was obtained from the office of H.H. the 43rd Sakya Trizin.

For those who have embarked on the path or are about to, have you ever wondered what the most important factor on the Buddhist path is? This question, posed at the very start of this teaching, prompts us to reflect deeply on our approach and whether we truly grasp its profundity.

What does it mean to receive an initiation or empowerment in the Vajrayāna tradition? What is the purpose behind these rituals, and how do they relate to Dharma practice? Are they confined to spiritual practice or cushion time, or do they have relevance to our day-to-day experiences? What truly embodies the Dharma?

This text reminds us that the journey to enlightenment is not about grand gestures or flawless execution, but about the purity of our intentions and the sincerity of our efforts. Let this guide illuminate the understanding that the essence of Dharma lies in the simple, yet profound, practice of kindness and compassion in all aspects of our lives.