Dudjom Rinpoche (1904-1987) was a Buddhist meditation master and leader of the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. He entered the door of the Dharma at three years old when he was recognized by the disciples of the great terton Dudjom Lingpa as the emanation of their master. In addition to his religious studies, this monk was also educated in all the sciences. Although he didn't see himself as a writer, Dudjom Rinpoche wrote and compiled about 20 volumes. This paperback consists of a series of discourses in which he talks about the essence of the path, the long oral lineage of the Nyingmapas, practicing the teachings without sectarian bias, an aspiration to the Great Perfection, and other subjects.
Dudjom Rinpoche sums up the Buddha's teaching in one verse: "Abandon every evil deed, / Practice virtue well, / Perfectly subdue your mind." In this tradition, the mind is the source of all defilement. Anger grows from this soil and can lead to violence and injury to others. Other enmities can arise from envy, stupidity, and arrogance. No wonder the repeated message of Buddhism is: Get a grip on your mind! However, the mind can also transform these defilements. Dudjom Rinpoche discusses the path of the Secret Mantra whereby poisons can be turned around and used for good. This grows out of insight into the true nature of phenomenon. It means moving beyond ignorance, which is clinging to the self.
In one of the most inspiring passages in the book, Dudjom Rinpoche reveals how the subduing of the mind can lead naturally to the nurture of a good heart. Wishing for the welfare of others and putting them before ourselves is the essence of practicing virtue. In the last sentence of the book, Ddjom Rinpoche says: "This advice is the very blood of my heart. Hold it close and never let it go!"
