(The Preliminaries III)

The indispensable common and uncommon preliminary practices prepare the mind for the journey to liberation. Lama Alan Wallace provides commentary on Düdjom Rinpoché’s teachings about the revolutions in outlook triggered by purifying the mindstream, leading to decreased mental afflictions. Understanding the truth of impermanence provides the freedom to change while also undermining grasping at illusion; understanding the truth of karma supports ethical and meaningful behavior. Lama Alan explains how realigning goals enhances Dharma practice just as Buddha-Dharma helps to clarify realistic intentions and strategies.

In lesson three, Rinpoche teaches on the value of studying Buddhadharma to create the proper understanding and inspiration, which are necessary conditions for effective training on the path. A correct view of the unity of emptiness and compassion gives the necessary bearing for a successful practice.

Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche emphasizes developing a stable and regular meditation practice focusing on the qualities of renunciation, compassion, and a correct view of impermanence. Bringing the teachings into experience through meditation is what makes realization possible. Realizations cannot be transferred to someone else. But, through hearing the truth of suchness, liberation is attainable.

In this last lesson, Lama Alan delves deeper into how the four immeasurables relate to genuine well-being. He touches on Buddhaghosa’s teachings in The Path to Purification before exploring the characteristics and the near and far enemies of each of the four immeasurables.