A brief introduction to Tibetan Buddhism with a focus on iconography and religious symbolism.

1. Tibetan Buddhism for Dharma Dummies

2. Tibetan Buddhism for Dharma Dummies As I have grown older, I have become more drawn to the Dharma. For a Western “book Buddhist” like myself, its hard to get a clear understanding of Tibetan Buddhism from the hippy-dippy gobbledegook that often gets published. Its often very difficult to figure out how to practice. I wanted a CLEAR, concise, no bs, instruction guide. I couldn’t find one, so I made one Part I: Introduction

3. I am completely unqualified to teach Not a Buddhist Not officially trained in Buddhism Don’t speak Tibetan Don’t read Sanskrit Don’t meditate enough Am not enlightened Everything here I found on Wikipedia Or I made it up Part I: Introduction

4. Buddhism in 30 seconds The Buddha (Mr. With-It) The 4 Noble Truths Life is pain. Pain is want. Get rid of pain by Following the path Taking Refuge The Buddha (the example) The Sangha (the community) The Dharma (the teaching) The 8-fold path (do the right thing) Mindfulness, meditation, compassion Buddhism has a real see for yourself, results-may-vary approach But what’s the point? Stop endless suffering Enlightenment End Reincarnation (the cycle of ignorance, pain and hatred) Nirvana (no pain, no rinse-repeat, awake and happy) Part I: Introduction

5. Approaches to Buddhism The Buddha didn’t write any of his teachings down; consequently, up to 18 different “schools” sprang up over the years to transmit and explain their interpretation of his teachings. Some of these schools included Sarvastivada – a variant that eventually made its way to Tibet Therevada – one of the oldest Buddhist schools of thought and one that still exists in Sri Lanka. There are basically three great “vehicles” (approaches or traditions) to Buddhism. By “approaches” I mean both a) a body of doctrine b) philosophical outlook and c) way to practice. They are often called “The Three Yanas” Part I: Introduction

7. The mystery tradition of Mayahana, also known as a Tantra

8. Mystical, hands on, esoteric, hard-core type of practice that has levitating monks, monks living in caves alone for 35 years, monks disappearing into rainbows. These guys are dharma commandos.

10. History of Tibetan Buddhism (in a nutshell)“One is all for religion until one visits a really religious country. Then, one is all for drains, machinery and a minimum wage.” - Aldous Huxley Part I: Introduction NyatriTsenpo - supposedly first king of Tibet circa 200BCE. Roughly 42 Tibetan emperors (“Tsenpo”), of which only a dozen can be historically verified. 7th Cent: King SongtsenGampodevelops Tibetan writing system & may have established the first Buddhist monasteries. After his death associated with the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara. King TrisongDetsey (TrisongDetsen) founds Samye, the first monastery in Tibet First Tibetan Buddhist teacher is Padmasambhava (a.ka. Padmakara) he established the Nyingma school. First Transmission – Nyngma school Rough patch: King Langdarma (Lang Darama)(838-42) tried to suppress Buddhism & reinstitute Bon. Assassinated by a Buddhist monk (with the murder considered compassionate since it prevented the King from acquiring any more negative karma! Event celebrated by the “Black Hat” dance. However, the Tibetan empire falls about for roughly 400 years 13th Cent: Tibet becomes part of Mongol Empire; Emperor Kublai Khan very taken by Tibetan Sakya clan 17th Century: Tibet unified under the Geluk Dalai Lama 18th-20th Centuries: Complex politics with Chinese, British & Russian empires; semi-vassal to China; lots of infighting among 4 major schools 1912-1949 Independent nation but closed off theocracy; 1950: Chinese invasion; loses independence with 17 Point Agreement in 1951 Diaspora & genocide

11. Tibetan Buddhist Schools - Nyingma Part I: Introduction Nyingma – “old school” Traces its roots to founding of Buddhism in Tibet. Relies on “termas” (hidden teachings) which apparently can literally be teachings hidden under a rock somewhere but are usually just somebody claiming that they received the “hidden teachings” in their head. Wear red hats. Most non-political; into Dzogchen Uses scriptures from the “first diffussion/tranmission” The school most closely affiliated with Bon, the previous religion of Tibet.

12. Tibetan School #2 - Kagyu Part I: Introduction Kagyu – a “new school” - oral language school of second diffussion Multiple branches and subsects (too many to count) This school is into oral traditions, guru transmission, mahamudratantra & Primordial Buddha Use the “new translation” and wear red hats. Spiritual leader is the Karmapa (currently in dispute) Many Tibetan Buddhist sects place primary importance on the guru-student relationship as essential to spiritual attainment and frown upon just relying on scriptures. Consequently, oral transmission lineage (so-and-so taught so-and-so) is very important . It’s also usually made up. The student is supposed to follow the guru’s instructions unquestioningly. The student is encouraged to think it’s his imperfections and not the guru’s shortcomings that cause problems in the relationship, sort of a “Daddy drinks because you cry” logic.

13. Tibetan School #3 - Sakya Part I: Introduction The“Gray Earth” “new school” Founded by KhonKonchogGyalpo in the 12th Century. Gained prominence under Kublai Khan Into scholarly traditions, especially the HevajraTantra Uses the “new translation” and wear red hats. They have (or had) six main monasteries, including DorjeDrak.

15. GandenTripa = spiritual head

16. Dalai Lama = temporal leader.

17. Order was founded in the 14th century by Je Tsongkhapa (TsongKhapa), based on a school of teaching called the Kadampa.

18. Into Madyamaka & Prajnayaparmita texts

19. Use the “new translation” and wear yellow hats.An Alternate Approach “Rime” – a non-secretarian movement of late 19th Century with a universalist approach to the doctrines. Non-dogmatic. Created to counter the “my teaching is better than your teaching” rivalries of major Tibetan schools

20. Part II: Who’s Who A Who’s Who of Tibetan Buddhism:Part II: Buddhas

21. Shakyamuni Buddha THE Buddha – i.e. Mr. With-It who lived in India in 600 B.C. “Sakya” – his clan name; “Sakyamuni” – sage of the Sakyas Touching mudrā (right hand pointed downward over the right leg, palm inward) is reserved for a seated Śākyamuni alone. Part II: Who’s Who: Buddhas

22. Maitreya- The Future Buddha Will arrive after the present Buddha cycle dies out Dwells in Tushita heaven Usually drawn sitting down Hands usually in teaching mudra Part II: Who’s Who: Buddhas

23. Samantabhadra – “The Primordial Buddha”(Kagyu and Gelug schools = Vajradhara) a.k.a. Adibuddha, Vajrasattva Primordial Buddha; also considered a Boddhisattva Patron of the Lotus Stutra Girlfriend is Samantabhadri (Sambatabadri) ; together they are wisdom & selflessness Essence of our own Adi-Buddha of Indestructible Blue Light Lord of all mysteries & master of all secrets; purified of emotional defilements; ultimate personification of all the Buddhas Conquers all evil spirits who are the enemies of Buddhism Manages the 8 Dharmapalas Usually depicted naked because he is beyond all attributes Manifestation of Padmasambhava Associated with Vairocana Part II: Who’s Who: Buddhas Vajradhara means “Thunderbolt holder”

24. Buddha Vajradharma/Varjadharma Represents the speech of the Buddhas Hands crossed at the heart holding a vajra and bell Part II: Who’s Who: Buddhas

25. The Medicine Buddha Also comes in 8 flavors Embodies healing qualities of all the Buddhas; conquers disease and delusion Right hand holds myrobalan plant, which can heal both physical and mental ailments Part II: Who’s Who: Buddhas

26. The 5 Buddhas/Buddha Families (A.k.a. the 5 Wisdom Buddhas, Dhyani [Esoteric or Meditation] Buddhas, etc.) Used in Buddhist psychology Represent mental constructs, emotions and physical aspects Considered related – “the principles are relatives, and the relatives are principles” – C. Trungpa. Each has a different gang sign, direction, animal, color & specific moment in the Buddha’s life Part II: Who’s Who: Buddhas Amitabha Ratnasambhava Akshobhya Amoghasiddhi Vairochana

27. The 5 Buddhas – 1. Vairocana/VairochanaThe Illuminator, Queen of Space Buddha Family: Buddha Allows the true nature of things to appear Wisdom: Accommodating Neurosis: Ignorance Aggregate (Skanda): Form Action: Teaching Symbol: Wheel Element: Space Color: White (sometimes blue) Season: N/A Direction: Center Mudra: Teaching wheel Lover: Locana or Dhatvishvari (space) Part II: Who’s Who: Buddhas Represents the first time the Buddha taught – “setting the dharma wheel in motion” Note: The correspondences at right may vary depending on the tradition and the specific tantra

28. The 5 Buddhas – 2. Akshobya(Akshobhya) The Unshakable One or Soul Mirror Part II: Who’s Who: Buddhas Buddha Family: Vajra Purpose: Transforms anger into wisdom Wisdom: Reflective Neurosis: Hatred Aggregate (Skanda): Consciousness Action: Protecting/destroying Symbol: Vajra Element: Water Color : Blue Season: Winter Direction: East Mudra: Earth touching (except apparently in this picture) Girlfriend: Mamaki (water)

29. The 5 Buddhas – 3. Amitabha Buddha Infinite Light, Discriminating Wisdom Buddha Family: Lotus or Padma Purpose: Transforms desire, empowers Wisdom: Discriminating awareness Neurosis: Desire Aggregate (Skanda): Perception Action: Magnetizing Symbol: Lotus flower Element: Fire Color: Red Season: Spring Direction: West Mudra: Dhyanai.e.Meditation (thumb-touching) Lover: Pandara/Pandaravasini Main Buddha worshipped by the Pure Land sect; bestows long life; represents gentleness, purity, etc. ; lives in Sukhāvatī realm Used to be a bodhisattva named Dharmakāra. Throne supported by peacocks, who can supposedly swallow poisonous snakes without harm

30. The 5 Buddhas – 4. RatnasambhavaSource of Preciousness, Buddha Gem, Born from the Jewel or Giving Buddha Part II: Who’s Who: Buddhas Each Buddha may also have a set of attendants. For example, Ratnasambhava attendants are Samanthabhadra, Akashagarbha, Mala & Dhupa Buddha Family: Ratna Purpose: Transforms pride into equinamity Wisdom: Equanimity Neurosis: Greed/Pride Aggregate (Skanda): Feeling Action: Enriching Symbol: Jewel, Wish-fulfilling gem Element: Earth Color: Yellow Season: Fall Direction: South Mudra: Giving Lover: Vajradhatvisvari or Buddhalochana or Mamaki Throne supported by horses

31. The 5 Buddhas – 5. AmoghasiddhiLord of Karma, Buddha of Unfailing Success Buddha family: Karma Purpose: Transforms jealousy Wisdom: Accomplishing Neurosis: Envy Aggregate (Skanda): Action Symbol: Sword/Double vajra Element: Air/Wind Color: Green Season: Summer Direction: North Mudra: Fearlessness Lover: MahaArya Tara or Samayatara Spiritual Emanation is Visvapani Part II: Who’s Who: Buddhas Rides on Garuda, the half-man, half-eagle creature who eats snakes

32. BodhisattvasOne who is awake Part II: Who’s Who: Bodhisattvas Metaphor for Buddhist qualities Vows to postpone enlightenment until all beings are free Classified according to various gradations of enlightenment Object of veneration, aspiration, etc. Approachable; can intercede on behalf of humans Sometimes fuzzy distinction with Buddhas

33. Amitayus Related to Amitabha (Infinite Light Buddha) A.k.a Buddha of Eternal Life Holds vase with elixir of life Lives in Sukhavati, the Pure Land in the west Often used as a Yidam Part II: Who’s Who: Bodhisattvas Buddhas/Bodhisattva clothing & jewelry are based on ancient Indian royalty costume; Buddhas are portrayed as kings and boddhisattvas as princes/princesses

34. Avalokiteshvara (a.k.a. Chenrezig)Lotus Holder, Lord of World, Lord of Six Syllables, Lord of Speech, Lord who Looks Down, etc. Bodhisattva that embodies the compassion of all the Buddhas. Holds a lotus. Postponed his own enlightenment until all sentient beings are liberated. Mantra is Om Mani Padme Hum. Sometimes depicted with 11 heads (so he can see in all directions) and a thousand arms (so he can lend a helping hand to everyone). Goddess Guan Yin sometimes describes as female form Part II: Who’s Who: Bodhisattvas Standing means he operates in our world Has different manifestations, depending on the realm: God: IndraShatakratu Jealous God: Vemachitra Human: Shakyamuni Animal: Dhruvasimha Ghost: Jvalamukha “Flame Mouth” Hell: Dharmaraja (“Dharma King”)

35. Manjushri Bodhisattva of wisdom Sword cuts through ignorance Holds lotus containing book Prajnaparmita Sutra Also comes in white flavor Part II: Who’s Who: Bodhisattvas

36. NamgyalmaThe Crowned Mother Buddha Part II: Who’s Who: Bodhisattvas Three faces and eight arms White body represents protection from disasters Blue face – defeat of devils; Yellow face longevity What’s up with the ’70’s rainbow tights? Symbolizes the ability to manifest in this world, or multiple worlds; also probably relates to the concept of a multi-elemental “rainbow body”

37. Prajnaparamita Not just a sutra, but a goddess of wisdom Part II: Who’s Who: Bodhisattvas

38. TaraMother of Protected Wisdom; Mother of the Buddhas, Mother of Liberation Origins in Hindu mythology as a mother goddess Approachable; could be prayed to without the help of a lama or monk Feminine enlightenment Bodhisattva, comes in several forms Female aspect of Avalokitesvara, born of his tears Compassion & action Om Tare TuttareTureSoha (mantra) Part II: Who’s Who: Bodhisattvas

39. Tara – Green TaraMother of Liberation Buddha of enlightened activity, the energy of compassion Part II: Who’s Who: Bodhisattvas Notice that right leg extended? Symbolizes the readiness to spring into action

40. Tara – White Tara Compassion, long life, healing and serenity; also known as The Wish-fulfilling Wheel, or Cintachakra Maternal compassion Healing Part II: Who’s Who: Bodhisattvas

41. Tara – Black Tara Associated with power Guardian of “the void” Part II: Who’s Who: Bodhisattvas

42. Tara – Yellow Tara Wealth & Prosperity Increases positive qualities Part II: Who’s Who: Bodhisattvas

43. Tara – Red Tara Fierce, magnetizes things Turns desire into love and compassion Part II: Who’s Who: Bodhisattvas

44. Tara – Blue Tara Represents the transmutation of anger Evokes for luck and quick spiritual awakening Affiliated with Ekajati Part II: Who’s Who: Bodhisattvas What’s up with all the arms? Multiple appendages (arms, heads, etc.) symbolize sets of qualities & are a mnemonic device

45. Tara - Cittamani Tara Form used at the level of Highest Yoga Tantra in the Gelug School Painted dark green Part II: Who’s Who: Bodhisattvas

46. Tara - The 21 Taras Prayer/poem “In Praise of the 21 Taras” spoken each AM at all 4 Tibetan schools Part II: Who’s Who: Bodhisattvas

47. Tara - Khadiravani TaraTara of the Teak Forest The “22nd Tara” Appeared to Nagarjuna in the Khadiravani forest, south India Part II: Who’s Who: Bodhisattvas

48. VajrapaniHand Diamond, The Immovable One One of the first bodhisattvas Guardian of the Buddha; represents his power (Manjushri represents his wisdom and Avalokitesvara his compassion) Also described as a manifestation of Vajradhara Part II: Who’s Who: Bodhisattvas

50. Lives in the Diamond Realm

51. Helps with preliminary practices

52. Popular in Nepal

53. Sometimes describes as the chief

55. Dharmapalas(and other Protectors) Part II: Who’s Who: Yidams, Herukas & Dharmapalas Basically 3 variants: Dharmapalas/Dharmarajas – very enlightened, represent activities of the Buddhas, protect the Dharma; also described as mountain spirits tamed by Padmasambhava Mahakala (many forms; a manifestation of Avalokiteshvara) Yama – Lord of Death Yamantaka(angry Manjushri) Hayagriva(angry Avalokiteshvara with 108 flavors) Vaisravana Shri Devi (Manifestation of Manjushri) Changpa PranaAtma (alternates: PaldenLhamo , Tshangs pa , Begtse, Kubera) Lokapalas – protect teachers, monasteries, etc. Can exist in peaceful & wrathful forms; may also include the Four Guardian Kings (cardinal points) Ksetrapalas – protect specific locations (a mountain, a house, etc.) Evoked (invoked?) to assist us with certain practices Also seen as aspects ouf our own mind Note: There’s lots of cross-pollination between Herukas and Dharmapalas & variation in the list of protectors (e.g. some include Begtse, the God of War)

56. ChakrasamvaraThe Great Defender; Shastradhara (Weapon Wielder) Consort: Vajravarahi (or Nairatmya? ) 4 faces; some accounts give him 17 heads in 5 rows 2, 12 or 70 arms Often part blue, part green Evokes to exorcise inner demons The “Swiss Army Knife” of Tantric tools Part II: Who’s Who: Yidams, Herukas & Dharmapalas Note the “alidhasana” leg pose – one straight & one bent. Comes from classical Indian dance

57. Kalachakra Part II: Who’s Who: Yidams, Herukas & Dharmapalas Yidam; also a complex form of Vajrayana practice; supposedly the practices Buddha gave to the “King of Shambala” DawaSangpo Also refers to the scripture KalachakraTantra and its commentaries. Incorporates astrology Initiation ceremonies hosted by Dalai Lama Most Tibetan initiation ceremonies are one-on-one affairs with the exception of the Kalachakra – in which literally thousands of initiates may be inducted at one time!

58. Guhyasamaja Part II: Who’s Who: Yidams, Herukas & Dharmapalas Bodhisattva/” Tathagata Buddha” of the “GuhyasamajaTantra, Esoteric Community Tantra, one of the the 18 major Tantras of the Nyingma School and one of the oldest tantras ever Girlfriend is Sparshavajra/Adhiprajna Both have 1 blue, 1 red, 1 white head (3 heads can represent the 3 gateways to liberation, the 3 aspects of wakefulness, the transformation of the three poisons, etc) Note the third eye; symbolizes spiritual awakening; insight that cuts through delusion; seeing into the past, present or future, etc.

59. Samayavajra Associated with Guhyasamajatantra Supposed to purify one’s relationship with one’s spiritual guide Part II: Who’s Who: Yidams, Herukas & Dharmapalas Six arms can represent the 6 perfections

60. Vajrayogini “Diamond Female Yogi” Generic Yidam/Female Buddha Part II: Who’s Who: Yidams, Herukas & Dharmapalas

61. YamantakaDeath Destroyer or Death Terminator Aka Vajrabhairava Emanation of Manjushri; myth of Man-j scaring death to death A Dharmapāla (law protector) Guardian of the south Represents the courage to face death – both outer (physical) and inner (realization of non-dual reality) Part II: Who’s Who: Yidams, Herukas & Dharmapalas 4 legs represent the trampling of the 4 maras Note the skull filled with brains & eyes – represents the delusion of the senses

62. Vishudda/Sri Samyak/Yangdak Used in Tantric practic Similar to Chakrasamvara Associated with the 5th chakra (energy point) Affiliated with Vajrapani Also known as wrathful diety of mind Part II: Who’s Who: Yidams, Herukas & Dharmapalas

63. MahakalaThe Big Black One A Dharmapāla (law protector); affiliated with Avalokiteshvara Protects Buddhist monasteries and tents! Has at least 3 variants (2,4 & 6 arms – depends on school) Wears a skull crown Mythology written by KhedrupKhyungpopa of the ShangpaKagyu tradition in the 11th century Personal tutelary deity for the Mongol ruler Kublai Khan Part II: Who’s Who: Yidams, Herukas & Dharmapalas The 6 arms represent the 6 perfections

64. Chodrygal (aka Kalarupa ) King of the Dharma Angry version of Manjushri Conquers hindrances & removes inner or outer obstacles Invoked in VajraVairabTantra practices in Highest Wisdom (Anuttarayoga) Tantra, used by the New Translation (Sarma) Schools Part II: Who’s Who: Yidams, Herukas & Dharmapalas

65. Yama(Tibetan: Gshin-rje) Part II: Who’s Who: Yidams, Herukas & Dharmapalas Lord of Death & Dharmapala Keeps the wheel of life (samsara) spinning Protector of the VajraVairab (Yamantaka) cycle of tantras Buffalo head, 3 eyes, two horns; severed head necklace, etc. Lives seven stories underground in Hell Consort is Chamundi; offers him demon blood First mortal to die, now guide and judge of the dead Defeated by Yamantaka (Manjushri)

66. Vaishravana Chief of the Four Heavenly Kings; Guardian of the north God of wealth A Dharmapāla (law protector) but never presented in an angry form Sits on blue snow lion Holds mongoose spitting wish-fufilling jewels Attendants: 4 queens, 4 princes, 8 mountain spirits (Yakashas), 8 nagas, 8 demons Part II: Who’s Who: Yidams, Herukas & Dharmapalas

67. Dakinis(Sky Walkers) Part II: Who’s Who: Dakinis Red Dakini - The Crimson Rose Skydancer Black Dakini - The Dark Face of the Void Blue Dakini - The Dancer on Ocean and Sky White Dakini - The Snowflake of Shining Radiance Golden Dakini - The Golden Waterfall of Peace and Blessings Emerald Dakini - The Shining Green Star of Power Vajrayogini - The Trauma Goddess A Dakini is a female persona of enlightened energy; can also represent a type of consciousness

68. More Wrathful Dakinis(cont.)

69. Kurukulla (Rigjyedma) Name means “The cause of knowledge” Both 4 and 8 armed variants Associated with a king of Uddiyana; also associated with Tara; possibly a pre-Buddhist goddess Goddess of love, sex, & enchantment Part II: Who’s Who: Dakinis

70. Simhamukha a.k.a. SengeDongmaThe Lion-Faced Dakini Manifestation of Padmasambhava Associated with Nyingma, Dzogchen & Book of the Dead Possibly considered a Bodhisattva Part II: Who’s Who: Dakinis Type of skirt: Elephant skin – Strength overcoming delusion Human skin – Compassion Tiger skin – Taming aggression

73. Yet more/alternate Gate Guardians Part II: Who’s Who: Lokpalas The eight guardians illustrate that there is no escaping the true nature of our own mind There’s no escaping the fact that there are multiple variations in guardian sets!

74. Dzambhala Embodies the Wealth aspect of all the Buddhas Name from “jambhara” (lemon!) Grants longevity and prosperity in daily life His pet mongoose spits out jewels Part II: Who’s Who: Lokpalas

75. Ekajati Protector of secret mantras Maternal grandmother of the Buddhas Painted with only one breast Guardian of the Dzogchen teachings Associated with Blue Tara Part II: Who’s Who: Lokpalas Severed head necklace – usually 50 or 52 heads, represents 50 letters in Sanskrit, 52 mental factors, etc.

76. The Cast of 1,000sBut wait! – there’s more… Damchen - Tibetan mountain-spirits bound under oath to protect the Dharma by Padmasambhava; also known as a blacksmith protector Vajra Maidens – Vajramrita - The Essence of Flowing Nectar Vajralasi - The Essence of Laughter and Wonder Vajradhupa - The Essence of Clear Sweetness Amidst Clouds Vajravarahi - The Essence of Abundance and Fertility Vajragiti - The Essence of Crystalline Song Rakshasa – flesh eating, blood drinking spirit Gandharvas– supernatural beings affiliated with moon. Have strange powers over women. From Indian mythology. Yakashas– mountain spirits The Three Worldly Deities - MamoBötong , JiktenChötö , MöpaDrakngak PaldenLhamo - Protectress of Tibet; sometimes described as a Dharmapala Part II: Who’s Who: Various GarwaiNagpo – Damchen/worldly protector

77. People“A one-l lama is a priest, a two-l llama is a beast” Lama means “guru” or spiritual master Rinpoche – means “precious one” or “dear” – similar to “Mr.” Geshe –Tibetan Buddhist advanced degree title; similar to “Professor” or “Dr.” Siddha – a perfected master Tulku – a reincarnated master (or bodhisattva) Part III: People

78. Atisha(980-1054) Buddhist teacher from the Pala Empire; former Abbot of Vikramashila Monastery Along with KonchogGyalpo and Marpa, was one of the major figures in the re-establishment of Buddhism in Tibet Created method of attaining enlightenment called Lamrim Part III: People

79. Dalai Lama Name means “Ocean of Wisdom” The embodiment of the Bodhisattva of Compassion. DrepungMonastery is supposed to be his seat Current is the 14th (b.1935) Part III: People

80. Panchen Lama Second highest llama in the Gelupa sect Responsible for finding the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama 10thPanchen Llama attempted to accommodate Communist China (thus we don’t hear much about him) 11thPanchen Lama is in dispute; the Dalai Lama-appointed version is MIA since 1995. The Chinese appointed their own version (See left) Part III: People 10thPanchen Lama 11thPanchen Lama (missing; in “protective custody”) 11thPanchen Lama (appointed by Chinese Communists)

81. Gampopa(1079-1153) Physician from Dagpo region in Kham Top student of Milarepa. Established the Kagyu school Author of the Samadhiraja Sutra Part III: People

82. JigtenSumgon(1143-1217) Founder of the DrigungKagyu School Part III: People

83. Je Tsongkapa(1357–1419)LobsangDrakpa a.k.a. Je Rinpoche i.e. The Man from Onion Valley Helped found the Geluk school Teaching emphasis on Union of Sutra & Tantra Monastic vows (Vinaya) Part III: People

84. LongchenRabjampa(1308 – 1369) Nyingma school teacher Associated with Manjushri Abbot of Samye Wrote book “The Seven Treasures,” a distillation of 600 years of Buddhist thought Part III: People

85. MachigLabdron(1055- 1149) Famous female Buddhist yogi who created the Chod practices Part III: People

86. Marpa(1012-1097) Monk who translated the Vajrayana and Mahamudra texts into Tibetan Part III: People

87. Milarepa(1052—c. 1135) Bad dude; killed his family with black magic; then had a change of heart Milarepa taught by Marpa, who was taught by Naropa Marpa made him to physical labor before giving him teaching Practiced alone in a cave for 11 months Practiced alone for 12 years; skin turned green from eating nettles. Famous for his poetry Part III: People

88. Nagarjuna(ca. 150-250 CE) Indian monk Founder of Mahayaha Buddhism Not much known about him Name of famous Bollywood actor (b.1959) Part III: People

89. Naropa(1016-1100 C.E.) Kashmiri Bramin convert to Buddhism; Professor at Nalanda University Studied under Tilopa Monk who created the crash-course, single-lifetime accelerated method of enlightenment, described in his Six Yogas of Naropa. Part III: People

90. GarabDorje(184 BC – 57 AD) - An early yogin and tantric His life story full of miraculous events and powers; Tibetans think of him as a historical figure Part III: People

91. Padmasambhava(Guru Rinpoche, Lotus Born)8th century From Swat Valley, Pakistan Brought Tantric Buddhism (Vajrayana) to Tibet & Bhutan; father figure to Tibetan Buddhism Founded the Nyngma school & Samye monastery Convinced local Bon deities to serve the Dharma Created practice of Dzogchen Has 8 manifestations (plus others), for the 8 important things he did/stages of psychological preparation Vajradhara of Urgayana (Oddiyana) King Padmaraja King LodenChogsay Suryaprabha Rdor-je-gro-lod (Vajradamodara) Guru Drakpo The monk Indrasena Buddha Shakyasimha Supposedly foretold that Tibet would be overrun by the Chinese Part III: People

92. Padmasambhava(as Guru Vajradhara Father-Mother, i.e. Guru Vajradhara of Urgayana [Oddiyana] ) Urgayana [Oddiyana] = area of Afghanistan/Pakistan Blue body, portrayed as Bodhisattva in Yab-Yum pose Right hand embraces girlfriend & holds a Vajra; left hand holds a vajra-ghanta Wears Bodhisattva outfit Part III: People

93. Padmasambhava(as King Padmaraja) King of Oddiyana Red body, holds drum (damarau, symbolizes impermanence) and mirror (sight) Royal cloths & horses head Note auspicious offerings at his feet, boneyard, wild animal surrounded by disciples Part III: People

94. Padmasambhava(as King LodenChogsay) Mirror in right hand, skull cup in left Phurpa (dagger) tied on his stomach Pink halo & golden crown Throne covered in flowers Conveyor of knowledge to all worlds Part III: People

95. Padmasambhava(as Suryaprabha, i.e. Rays of the Sun) Illustrates his life as a yogi who practiced in a graveyard Mt. Potalastupa in background His staff (khatvanga) has a trident (control over 3 channels of nervous system) 3 heads (transmutation of death) Left hand in threat mudra Surrounded by Nyngma lamas (bottom right & top) Chinese flying god (upper right) two seated siddhas and a consort Part III: People

96. Padmasambhava(as Rdo-rje-gro-lod [Vajradamodara] ) Form he took in Bhutan to subdue the local demons Affiliated with Vishnu Consort is the Mon princess TashiKyidren, portrayed as a flying tiger Note vajra, dagger, severed head necklance and appearing on a river of blood Part III: People

97. Padmasambhava(as Guru Drakpo/DorjeTrolo) Fierce manifestation of Guru Rinpoche, represents “crazy wisdom” Often painted holding a black scorpion, symbol of neurotic sin Stands on two corpses on lotus throne, holds a holds a vajra; tiger belt, skull garland, etc. Part III: People

98. Padmasambhava(as OrgyenMenlha) The “Unsurpassable Great Healer of Mind” Affiliated with the Medicine Buddha Manifestation as healer Part III: People

99. Tilopa(988 – 1069) Indian yogi who experienced original transmission of the Mahamudra (“Great Seal” advanced meditation practice) Helped found Karma Kagyu school Part III: People

100. YesheTsogyal(757-817)The Great Bliss Queen Semi-mythical Yab-Yum consort to Padmasambhava Important to the Nyingma school Part III: People

101. Scriptures Sutra – originally meant a saying by the Buddha Lotus Sutra Wisdom Sutra Diamond Sutra Heart Sutra Tantra – Ritual instructions Commentaries, rituals, instructions, observations Fourfold Innermost Essence (for Dzogchen) Estimated 4,800 Indian Buddhist texts translated into Tibetan (a number that means “a whole lot”) Part IV: Scriptures

102. Prajnaparamita SutrasThe Perfection of Wisdom in 8,000 Lines Part IV: Scriptures One of the earliest sets of Mahayana sutras Manjushri holds a copy Heart Sutra & Diamond Sutra are subcomponents Lots of variations; more of a class of literature than a single text

103. The Book of the Dead“a.k.a. Liberation through Hearing” One of first Tibetan religious books published in West Describes the death process and what to do in order to use it as a method to reach enlightenment One of various methods = “Liberation through Wearing,” etc. Part IV: Scriptures Mind I. DharmakayaBardo II. SambhogakayaBardo Vairochana Akshibhya Ratnasambhave Amitabha Amoghasiddi 57 deities of mental formations III. NirmanakayaBardo“The Bardo of Becoming” Collapse & Separate at death Body

105. Flags, standards and banners : Victory of Buddhist teaching over ignorance

106. An elephant goad or ankh: Taming desires.

107. Spears: Pins down.

108. Club/Mace: Crushes opposition

109. Bow & arrows: Causing action at a distance

110. Trident: Three Jewels.

112. The 8 Offerings Wheel (8-fold path) Jewel (true wealth, generosity) Queen Minister Elephant Horse General Treasure Vase Part V: Symbolism & Holy Objects

113. Stupa (Chorten) Originally a monument that held a Buddhist relic (Buddha’s toe bone, etc.) Symbol of wisdom The compassionate eyes of the Buddha watching the world — "We cannot hide from our karma." Part V: Symbolism & Holy Objects

114. Yab Yum Part V: Symbolism & Holy Objects Sexual union Combination of wisdom & compassion (or method & wisdom), awareness and voidness; the union of complimentary states Father/Mother as opposed to lover/lover However, the inspiration for lots of Western projections about “Tantric Sex!”

115. Mandala Part V: Symbolism & Holy Objects Means Circle; sacred image of the universe Architectural blueprint of 4 Island continents/palaces with Mt. Meru at center Our bodies/minds are mandalas Used in ritual or as a meditation object; also symbol for alms boxes, mudras, sand paintings etc. Sand Mandalas most famous Ring of fire: Prevents the uninitiated entry into the mysteries; also represents the burning away of impurities Ring of diamond thunderbolts: Cuts through ignorance Ring of lotus petals – Spiritual vision A Mandala has 4 sides, each with a specific color, palace, etc.

116. The Gelupa Refuge Tree Basically it’s a “family tree” or a genealogy chart of past spiritual teachers Represents the “mindstream” of a lineage Tsongkapa (founder of the Gelug Order) in the center Madhyamika and the Yogacara sub-schools from the rainbows; Bodhisattvas and tulkus directly above Tsongkapa Below Tsongkapa, from bottom to top: the four lokpalas (guard cardinal points) dharampalas (Teaching Protectors) dakinis, 35 confessional buddhas, then 4 rows of Tantradieties Top of picture are Shakyamuni and MaitreyaBuddhas, each in their respective heaven Sort of a continuum/unity in diversity theme Part V: Symbolism & Holy Objects

117. Wheel of Life Part V: Symbolism & Holy Objects Buddhist Cosmology Foundation of dualistic/ego thinking Yama’s job is to keep the wheel of Samsara spinning. Note how he is holding up a mirror to your karma Yama, Lord of Death The three poisons 5/6 realms of existence Cycle (12 stages) of dependent origination

118. Practices Prayer wheels Prayer Flags “the wind horse with a wish-fufilling jewel on its back” Prostrations – method to overcome negative karma (climb a mountain by doing 100,000 prostrations) Tonglen – “in with the bad air, out with the good air” Mantra Om Mani Padme Hum (“The Jewel in the Lotus”) Meditation – helps you abandon delusion Calm abiding meditation (still the mountain lake) then Insight Meditation (clear the muck out) Mahamudra (“Great Seal”) Mahasandi (“Great Perfection”) Bodhichitta – awakened heart Retreats – some lasting up to three years! Part VI: Practices

119. Part VI: Practices Tantra Basically, “practice” – a Grab-bag of esoteric ideas & activities (many based on Hindu rituals) about how to communicate with the divine – lots of different versions in India and throughout Asia System based on series of initiations given by a Guru – not supposed to practice without guidance; supposed to be secret & esoteric Infuse reality with the divine rather than reject it Practices include mantras, breath control, visualization, chakras, mandalas, ritual (including sex), possibly use of hallucinogens Also described as practice plus insight plus compassion Can also be classified as “father,” “mother” or “non-dual” tantras – the latter use anger and desire to eliminate delusion Written in “SandhyaBhashya” – twilight language or metaphor code, similar to alchemy “New School” Tantras: Kriyayoga (Ritual) Charyayoga (Conduct) Yogatantra (Union) Anuttarayogatantra (highest yoga “aware of the body’s winds” or “unexcelled, continuous union”) Guhyasamaja (Esoteric Community) Yamantanka (Death Conqueror) a.k.a. Vajrabhairava (Diamond Terrorist) Hevajra (O Diamond) Mahamaya (Great Play of Illusion) Cakrasamvara (Wheel of Great Bliss) “Old School” Tantras Outer Kriyayoga Charyayoga Yogatantra Inner Mahayoga (visualization) Anuyoga Atiyoga (Tib. Dzogchen) subcomponents Mental, Spatial & Esoteric Lots of differing yanas and yogas, depending on the material

120. DzogchenThe Great Perfection, Supercompleteness Practice introduced by Padmasambhava Purpose is to get one to the “primordial state” of awareness, i.e. remain “in the clear” in “non-dual contemplation” Doesn’t require special place or equipment Includes activities such as sky gazing, active dreaming & lots of silent meditation Usually done in context of the guru-disciple relationship Part VI: Practices

121. ChodCutting through the Ego Based on the Prajnaparnita Sutra Set of practices around dissolving the ego via self sacrifice Hang out in graveyards & imagine yourself being eaten by ghosts in a “tantric feast” (ganachakra) Citti Patti death dance – about the impermanence of life Part VI: Practices

122. Chakras Spiritual/Physical energy points in the body Four main chakras (as opposed to Indian 7) with complex set of correspondences Related to 5 elements (earth, air, fire, water, spirit) System used in both spiritual practices and traditional healthcare Part VI: Practices

123. Thank You! May all sentient beings enjoy happinessand the root of happiness. May they be free from sufferingand the root of suffering. May they not be separatedfrom great happiness free of suffering. May they dwell in great equanimity, free from passion, aggression and prejudice.