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The Four Foundations 27/07/2007 to 10/08/2007 |
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Ngondro is a set of basic meditative practices in current use by all
Tibetan sects. It sets a strong base for advanced Vajrayana practices.
The Torch of Certainty (Nges-don sgron-me) by Jamgong Kongtrul
is an important text to read before asking the master for oral transmission
and beginning the Ngondro preliminary practices.
Before starting with the first foundation, the practitioner should first contemplate on the four ordinary foundations, which are thoughts that turn the mind towards religion. These are reflecting on the preciousness of the human body, impermanence, karmic action, cause and results and shortcomings of Samsara. The four foundations involve Taking Refuge and Generating Bodhicitta, Purification, Accumulation of Merits and Guru Yoga. The 1st foundation involves doing full body prostrations, saying the refuge liturgy and maintaining a steady visualization at the same time. During the 2nd foundation, the practitioner has to recite the 100 -syllable mantra while maintaining the Vajrasattva purification visualization. During the 3rd foundation, the practitioner has to recite the liturgy of offering the mandala of the universe to the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas while maintaining a steady visualization. Powerpoint slides for the 3rd Foundation, Mandala Offering are now available for download. During the 4th foundation, the practitioner visualizes oneself as a tutelary deity such as Vajrayogini while visualizing all the lineage gurus at the crown of his head and reciting prayers to the gurus to request for blessings All the practices have to be repeated 111,111 times. Rinpoche will be continuing his teachings of the 3rd and 4th foundations. The teachings will be on 27/07/2007, 3/08/2007, 10/08/2007 (Fridays) from 8 pm to 10 pm. |
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