Beginner’s Course: The Words of My Perfect Teacher (Part I – External Preliminaries) (online) (Winter term)

by Patrul Rinpoche

with Lama Jigmé

On Thursday evening, Lama Jigme will teach from the first part of “The Words of My Perfect Teacher” by the highly esteemed Tibetan Buddhist master, Patrul Rinpoche.

The Wisdom of Patrul Rinpoche

Patrul Rinpoche was a leading teacher within the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, known for his profound clarity and great compassion. His seminal work, “The Words of My Perfect Teacher,” serves as a comprehensive guide to the preparatory practices (Ngöndro) of the Longchen Nyingthig tradition. This text is essential for anyone embarking on a journey in the Buddhist path, with clear instructions and in-depth insights.

Course Overview

In this course, we focus on the outer preparations discussed in the first part of the book. Each session will cover key themes, including:

• The Preciousness of Human Life: Understanding the rarity and value of our human existence as a basis for practice.
• Impermanence: Reflecting on the transitory nature of life to develop a sense of urgency in our practice.
• The Law of Karma: Learning about cause and effect and how our actions shape our present and future experiences.
• The Sufferings of Samsara: Recognizing the pervasive nature of suffering in the cycle of existence to inspire us to renunciation.
• Taking  Refuge: Establishing a firm foundation in the Three Jewels—Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha—as our ultimate source of guidance and protection.

Lama Jigmé Namgyal will enrich these teachings with his in-depth understanding and personal experience, making these profound concepts accessible and relevant to our daily lives.