In this first lesson, we are introduced to the idea of the three turnings of the wheel of Dharma and learn about their foundations in the early discourses of the Buddha. We also call into question the common belief that some teachings are provisional while others are definitive.

Lama Alan Wallace guides us through the teachings of Düdul Dorjé and Longchenpa, exploring the nature of appearances and the self.

A PDF copy of the root text for this course, Düdjom Lingpa’s Buddhahood Without Meditation, is available on the course homepage under “Reading Materials” in the righthand sidebar. Other notes, mentioned in this lesson’s lectures, are available in the “Read” section below.