Glenn H. Mullen has given us a fine translation of 38 songs and poems by the Seventh Dalai Lama about taming and developing the mind. This spiritual leader wrote extensive commentaries on the Tantras and over a thousand mystical poems and prayers. According to Mullen, he dedicated much of his life to "the task of simplifying and clarifying the essence of the enlightenment tradition." This collection was compiled and published shortly after his death in 1757.
In these songs and poems, the Seventh Dalai Lama gives spiritual advice on preparing the mind for death, cultivating the wisdom of emptiness, celebrating the joys of the enlightenment experience, working with one's guru, using illness to tame the mind, and harvesting the benefits of meditation.
Here are examples of spiritual practice suggested by the Seventh Dalai Lama: "With the key of generosity bold and pure, / Spring the lock most difficult to open — the tightness of the heart." And later: "May we meditate on taking the world's misery upon ourself, / For thus are negative conditions turned into aids on the path."
