Description
Preface to the Spanish edition
by Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche
Although you are equal in deep of understanding and realization of
Dharma,
to those Indian masters known as the six ornaments and the two excellences,
yet (You) chose to remain in solitude as a hidden yogi,
You have accomplished the equanimity of samsara and nirvana in the great
perfection,
Longchen Rabjam, I postrate to you in reverence.
Longchen Rabjam Drime Özer, or simply known as Longchenpa, was a master of excellence, a critical link in the exoteric and esoteric transmission of the Dzogchen teachings, whose work has left a profound influence on the configuration of vision, path and fruition of the Nyingma school and many of its well known teachers since the 14th century. Spoken from direct experience of reality, resulted from years of rigorous training and practice, his writings differ from many others, in its in-depth analysis, in the broad understanding of philosophical differences and the common ground of Buddhist schools, with an accurate clarity and authority. His major work is the Seven Treasures.
Longchenpa devoted his life since young age studying the Buddhadharma. His determination and eagerness led him to study under the care of many great teachers of his time from all schools of Tibetan Buddhism. A true non-sectarian scholar, thinker and practitioner He is well versed in early Kadam tradition and mastered Lojong tradition of mind training, equally having a vast knowledge of the Kagyu, Sakya and other traditions. He became abbot of Samye, the first monastic university of Tibet founded in the 8th century.
In meeting Padmasambhava in vision and Kumaradza in person, Longchenpa found what he was seeking for all these years, the quintessence and the pinnacle of Buddhadharma. In the expanse of supreme vision, path and fruition of the Great Perfection or Dzogpa Chenpo, Longchenpa emerged as one of the greatest dzogchen masters of all time. In fact, it is said that anyone who practices dzogchen according instructed by the authentic master, Longchenpa would appear in vision as a sign of assurance and maturity in the practice.
Longchenpa’s life, work and accomplishments are a perfect example of one who tread the gradual ascendance of the Buddhist path known as the nine yanas. An embodiment of study, reflection and realization. His writings are essential for anyone who seriously wish to have a deep knowledge of the Buddhadharma and, particularly, of the dzogchen teachings of the Nyingma school.
Knowing that his previous lives include princess Pemasal and his immediate next birth was Pema Lingpa, it gives me great pleasure to see the life of Longchenpa being published in Spanish language by Shabda Edicions. I wish them well.
Gyetrul Jigme Norbu Rinpoche
Rigon Tashi Choeling Monastery
Pharping, Nepal
January 2020
