Lamrim is an extensive outline of the basic tenets of Buddhism that details the stages of spiritual maturity and ethical transformation. Lamrim serves as a helpful guide along the quest for enlightenment. It details the gradual steps of practice, taking everyday people to holiness and, ultimately, achieving Buddhistic fulfillment. This venerable Buddhist exposition offers helpful expertise which extends to every phase of life, offering invaluable advice for those pursuing truth and sustained joy.
The Tibetan master Tsongkhapa (1357–1419) completed this masterpiece in 1402 and it soon became one of the most renowned works of spiritual practice and philosophy in the world of Tibetan Buddhism.
This wonderful book lays out the complete path to enlightenment in a clear and concise way.
“ Of the many works of the Tibetan master Tsongkhapa, none compare in terms of popularity and breadth of influence with his Great Treatise on the Stages of the Path to Enlightenment (Lamrim Chenmo), which has been treasured by practitioners and scholars alike for centuries.
What distinguishes it as one of the principal texts of Mahayana Buddhism is its scope and clarity. It expounds the entire path from the way one should rely on a spiritual teacher, which is the very root, right up to the attainment of Buddhahood, which is the final fruit. The various stages of the path are presented so clearly and systematically that they can be easily understood and are inspiring to put into practice.”
If we study and practice according to the Great Treatise, we will become wiser and more compassionate. We will know how to better our present and future lives by making the right choices every day. To the ultimate end, we can end cyclical rebirths, and realize Buddhahood – the complete manifestation of compassion, wisdom, and unhindered abilities inherent in all of us; it is a teaching that cannot be missed.
The systematic and practical teaching in the Great Treatise is suitable for people at all stages of life, from beginner to high level spiritual practitioners.
As praised by Master Ri-Chang and His Holiness the Dalai Lama (both are Lamrim's lineage holder):
“The Great Treatise is supreme because it holds these three qualities:
The teaching originates directly from the Buddha.
The teaching is complete and comprehensiveness.
The teachers within the lineage were thoroughly qualified; they were experts in theory and accomplished (enlightened) in practice.
Also, the teachings of this Commentary integrate seamlessly the two major components of Buddhahood, namely, compassion and wisdom. Thus it stood the test of time.” ~ Master Ryh-Charng.
“Tsongkhapa, the great teacher, mastered fully the teachings of Buddha. He could extract the very essence of the three Pitakas and twelve Collections and presented a teaching which is direct, organized and indispensable for all those who wish to attain Buddhahood. It is analogous to a treasure map which leads us to discover the treasures fast and accurately.”~ H.H. the Dalai Lama
This comprehensive teaching lays out the Path of practice into four major parts:
This section is the preparation needed before engaging in the main teaching. It consists of five sections:
How to Listen to and Explain the Teachings
Relying on the Teacher
The Meditation Session
A Human Life of Leisure and Opportunity
The Three Types of Person (A general presentation of the path)
These five aspects are important prerequisites because as with any learning or undertaking, proper preparation is tantamount to later success.
Mindfulness of Death
Reflecting on Your Future Life
Going for Refuge to the Three Jewels
The Varieties of Karma
“Persons of Small Capacity” refers to people who believe and care about creating good future lives, and are willing to use this life as the vehicle toward such end, shifting their primary interest from living the present life to cultivating goodness for countless future lives.
After practicing well the above lessons, we would want to strive beyond seeking for better future lives but to go for ultimate liberation.
“Persons of Medium Capacity” are people who have a determination to be free from cyclic existence, ending such suffering and afflictions. To this end, the training and practice consist of four areas:
Reflection on the Truth of Suffering
Reflection on the Origin of Suffering
The Twelve Factors of Dependent-Arising
Ascertaining the Nature of the Path Leading to Liberation
In summary, this stage of practice trains the practitioners to see clearly the faults of cyclic existence, from which they become firmly determined to be free.
“Persons of Great Capacity” are people whose practice consists solely of helping others. With accomplished practice in self liberation, they are ready to enter the Mahayana path which is to develop the Spirit of Enlightenment ---- the selfless caring and striving for the welfare of others.
They train in these four disciplines:
How to develop the Spirit of Enlightenment (bodhicitta)
The Six Perfections
The Perfections of Meditative Stabilization (Serenity)
The Perfections of Wisdom (Insight)
This is just a short summary of the Lamrim's important topics. Once we start learning we will find that the teachings from “The Great Treatise“ are so beautiful and crucial; they are an inexhaustible treasure.
We hope all of us can explore it with our hearts and taste the sweet nectar of dharma.
Be part of our passionate international group of devoted Buddhists and experience the life-altering energy of Lamrim teachings. Our acclaimed Study Group arrangement provides fantastic possibilities for educating oneself and development. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, these groups delve into thorough conversations and investigate the complexities of Lamrim Chenmo. With the utilization of these fundamentals in everyday moments, individuals observe advantageous results in their attitude, assurance, sympathy, and overall health.
No matter your age or where you are located, The Lamrim invites everybody to commence a voyage of self-reflection and religious advancement. By being part of our group, you are given access to a wealth of know-how, backing, and supplies. Witness the magnificence of shift and relish the boundless delight and contentment that come from taking on the knowledge of the complete path via Lamrim Buddhism.
We welcome you to investigate our website, interact with our fellowship, and embark on your very own revolutionary journey through Lamrim Buddhism. Let's jointly nurture knowledge, attain inner serenity, and discover the path to eternal bliss.