Deity Mantra and Wisdom: Development Stage Meditation in Tibetan Buddhist Tantra, by Jigme Lingpa, Patrul Rinpoche,and Getse Mahapandita Tsewang Chokdrub, translated by the Dharmachakra Translation Committee.
Deity, Mantra, and Wisdom presents four Tibetan classics that elucidate the philosophy and practice of visualization, mantra recitation, and meditative absorption—three elements know collectively as "development stage meditation." These four works, here translated for the first time, are:
"Ladder to Akanistha" by Jigme Lingpa
"Clarifying the Difficult Points in the Development Stage" by Patrul Rinpoche
"The Four Stakes That Bind the Life-Force" by Patrul Rinpoche
"Husks of Unity" by Getse Mahapandita Tsewang Chokdrub
The development stage is one of the central practices of Buddhist Tantra. The texts contained in this volume are among the most widely studied commentaries on this topic and have formed the basis for spiritual study and practice for centuries.
"As I am certain that I am unable to gain enlightenment in one lifetime, my great fear is to be reborn in a place where there are no writings of Jigme Lingpa. His texts are like a manifestation of the great master himself. Even opening a page at random yields wisdom appropriate to our practice at the time. And for ordinary beings like me, the Dharma often appears unfathomable. So I feel blessed to have the writings of Dza Patrul Rinpoche, which express even the most profound Dharma in the most ordinary language. His writings have always accompanied me on the path, like a compassionate master by my side. I have no doubt these precious texts will benefit many people, as they have benefited me."—Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche, director of The Cup and Travellers & Magicians
"The Vajrayana tradition is rich in authentic scriptures written by realized masters. This book presents four of the most authoritative and widely studied works from the Nyingma School elucidating the Tantric practices of deity visualization, mantra recitation, and meditation. For anyone interested in these profound practices, especially those engaged in retreat, these texts are essential reading."—Erik Pema Kunsang, translator of Wellsprings of the Great Perfection
Jigme Lingpa (1730-1798) was one of the great saints of eighteenth century Tibet. His profound spiritual revelations and erudite writings have proven to be some of the most enduring classics of the Buddhist tradition. To this day, they continue to inspire others to lead a life of meditation.
Patrul Rinpoche (1808-1887) lived his life as a wandering yogi devoted to the practice of meditation. An accomplished scholar and prolific writer, he has won the hearts of many with his rare ability to present profound philosophical thought in a manner directly applicable to personal practice.
Getse Mahapandita Tsewang Chokdrub (1761-1829) revitalized the tradition of the Nyingma School through his commitment to the study and preservation of the Ancient Tantras and the revival of many Nyingma monasteries. Among his extensive literary works, his commentaries on the development stage have become central reading for numerous practitioners of Buddhist Tantra.
The Dharmachakra Translation Committee draws its inspiration from the vision, commitment, and magnificent achievements of past Buddhist translators. Directed by Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche, the Committee is dedicated to making Buddhist classics available to modern readers in their native languages.
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