Guru yoga

It is mentioned in Lamrim Yeshe Nyingpo, The Gradual Path of the Wisdom Essence, by Guru Rinpoche, that there are four levels of heart-practice or guru sadhana: the outer is Barché Künsel, the inner is Sampa Lhündrup, the secret is Tsokyé Nyingtik, and the innermost secret is Dorjé Draktsal.

Self-confidence can be a trait that we wish we had, but many of us may feel unsure of ourselves. At first glance, it might seem rather paradoxical to worry about self-confidence as we often hear about emptiness of self in Buddhist philosophy. However, we need self-confidence so that we can function in our regular daily actions in the world. Moreover, and most importantly, we need self-confidence in our own nature and in our practice.

Belief in dharma practice is crucial.  Yet, often we approach our practice in a half-hearted or not fully committed manner.  Then, if we don’t believe in what we are practicing, we may not recognize our own experiences on the path.  And if we don’t believe that the practice will bear results, then we may end up abandoning it altogether.

Today’s video features Kalden Drendze, and is a continuation of the Twelve Manifestations of Guru Rinpoche series. Here, Phakchok Rinpoche shares a very concise method for gaining accomplishment in the practice through a simple visualization.

Phakchok Rinpoche says that if we really examine ourselves, we can learn how to develop stable confidence. The good news is that as practitioners we can easily train in developing confidence, also known as dignity. He notes that every single Buddhist practice, especially on the Vajrayāna path, is designed to empower us with dignity.

When we recite this text while making feast offerings it brings great benefit for ourselves and for others. This condensed text helps achieve good fortune. Additionally, it offers protection from all types of calamities, temporary and ultimate. Sampa Lhundrup guards against conflict, disease, poverty, obstacle-makers, vicious animals, disturbances of the four natural elements, robbers, sudden death, the intermediate state, clinging to reality, and the sufferings of the six classes of beings.