TIBETAN BUDDHISM
"Tibetan Buddhism can be described as the most
comprehensive system of Buddhism in the sense that it contains elements of all aspects of
the Buddha's teachings. The teachings of the Four Noble Truths are really the foundation
of the Buddhist path. Together with the training in morality, the Four NobleTruths also
serve as the basis for the practice of bodhichitta.
The development of bodhichitta is the core of the Buddha's teaching and the
main path. Once the development of� bodhichitta has taken place, the
practitioner endeavors to apploy the altruistic principle throughout his or her life. This
leads to what are known as the 'bodhichitta ideals', including the 'six perfections' - the
perfections of generosity, morality, patience, enthusiasm, meditation or concentration,
and wisdom. Of these six the last two are perhaps the most important because it is in the
context of the perfection of concentration and insight that the Vajrayana methods are
introduced. We can consider the Vajrayana teachings as more refined methods for realizing
the perfection of concentration and wisdom.'"(p.110). What is fundamental to all
Buddhist teachings is compassion, and the development of compassion by cultivating bodhichitta.
Transforming the Mind, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Thorsons, London, 2000.
All
the Buddhist pages are in dedication and thankfulness to my Lama Geshe Gyalsten
Tendar, for his spiritual guidance, who epitomizes the true qualities of a
spiritual teacher and friend.
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