#Yogi Milarepa

[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

Helix nebula :: the Eye of God

* * * *

"Generally, ordinary thinking involves running between that and this. You are reporting back to yourself all the time. You do not just think; you think and then report back. However, when this back and forth petty journey is not happening, there is still a transcendental sort of thinking, so to speak. With this kind of thinking, you are seeing things precisely as they are, rather than having to refer back to anyone, because the whole being is seeing. The whole area is a giant eye; it is one single giant eye." ~ Milarepa: Lessons from the Life & Songs of Tibet’s Great Yogi by Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche, page 204

[alive on all channels]

[mahayanapilgrim]

Accustomed

Accustomed long to meditating on the secret whispered truths,

I have forgotten all that is said in written or printed books.

Accustomed, as I have been, to the study of the eternal Truth,

I've lost all knowledge of ignorance.

Accustomed, as l've been, to contemplating both nirvana and samsara as inherent in myself, I have forgotten to think of hope and fear.

Accustomed, as l've been, to meditating on this life and the next as one,

I have forgotten the dread of birth and death.

Accustomed long to studying, by myself, my own experiences,

I have forgotten the need to seek the opinions of friends and brethren.

Accustomed long to applying each new experience to my own spiritual growth,

I have forgotten all creeds and dogmas.

Accustomed long to meditating on the Unborn, the Indestructible, the Unchanging,

I have forgotten all definitions of this or that particular goal.

Accustomed long to meditating on all visible phenomena as the Dharmakaya,

I have forgotten all meditations on what is produced by the mind.

Accustomed long to keeping my mind in the uncreated state of freedom,

I have forgotten all conventions and artificialities.

Accustomed long to regarding my fleshly body as my hermitage,

I have forgotten the ease and comfort of retreats and monasteries.

Accustomed long to contemplating love and compassion, I have forgotten all difference between myself and others.

~ Milarepa

[muathang6]

HÀNH GIẢ VĨ ĐẠI NHẤT CỦA TÂY TẠNG

CÓ THỂ DẠY TA ĐIỀU GÌ VỀ CUỘC ĐỜI

Nguyên tác: “What Tibet’s Greatest Ever Yogi Can Teach Us About Living Life”

Bản dịch Việt ngữ của Thanh Liên

Milarepa nổi danh là một thi sĩ vĩ đại. Ngài thường lang thang quanh những miền quê, hát những bài ca và viết những bài thơ cho người dân địa phương. Tôi muốn chia sẻ với quý vị một vài bài thơ, giáo lý và trích dẫn nổi tiếng nhất của Milarepa với hy vọng rằng điều đó có thể mang lại lợi lạc cho một người nào đó.

1. Hãy khiêm tốn

“Hãy ngồi ở chỗ thấp nhất, và các con sẽ đạt được vị trí cao nhất.” –– Milarepa

Milarepa nổi danh là rất khiêm tốn. Ngài không mặc gì ngoài một vài quần áo rách dơ bẩn và không bao giờ ngồi trên một Pháp tòa hay ghế cao. Ngài không có tu viện lộng lẫy, thay vào đó ngài chọn cách sống trong những hang động và núi non.

Nhiều bài ca của ngài nói về sự khiêm tốn. Milarepa thường nói về đức tính khiêm tốn giúp ta phát triển lòng bi mẫn và lòng yêu thương, trong khi sự kiêu ngạo khiến chúng ta cảm thấy mình tốt hơn và quan trọng hơn tất cả những người khác. Ngài thường quở trách những người dân địa phương kiêu ngạo, nói rằng sự cao ngạo là nguyên nhân của đau khổ bởi nó quá sức quy-ngã. Và khi quý vị kiêu ngạo và tự cao, các sự việc không theo ý muốn của quý vị, quý vị sẽ đau khổ.

2. Tỉnh giác về cái chết

“Cuộc đời thật ngắn ngủi, và thời gian của cái chết thì bất định; vì thế hãy chuyên tâm thiền định. Hãy tránh những hành vi sai trái và tích tập công đức trong khả năng tốt nhất của các con, dù phải trả giá bằng cuộc đời mình. Tóm lại, hãy hành động để các con không có lý do gì phải xấu hổ về bản thân mình; và hãy tuân thủ chặt chẽ quy tắc này.” – Milarepa

Một trong những chủ đề chính yếu trong các bài thơ và bài hát của Milarepa là cái chết. Dường như việc ngài là một kẻ sát nhân trong quá khứ đã lưu lại dấu vết trong tâm thức ngài và ngài luôn luôn tỉnh giác về việc cái chết có thể đến bất kỳ lúc nào. Nhưng Milarepa đã sử dụng sự hiểu biết đó như một nguồn cảm hứng chứ không phải một lý do để tuyệt vọng. Thay vì lo lắng về cái chết, ngài đối mặt với những sợ hãi của ngài và sử dụng cái chết của ngài như động lực chính yếu để tu hành miên mật.

Tôi thường cố khuyến khích các độc giả của tôi thực hành tương tự. Chúng ta không biết khi nào chúng ta chết nhưng ta biết rằng cái chết là một điều chắc chắn. Vì thế ta nên sử dụng cơ hội quý báu này để thành tựu các mục tiêu của ta và làm một vài điều tốt đẹp nào đó. Đó là những gì Milarepa đã làm. Ngài đã sử dụng phần lớn thời gian của ngài bằng cách liên tục tỉnh giác rằng thời gian có thể cạn kiệt.

3. Tỉnh giác về sự vô thường

“Mọi theo đuổi thế gian chỉ có một kết thúc chắc chắn phải xảy ra và không thể tránh khỏi, đó là sự đau khổ. Mọi thâu đạt kết thúc trong tan tác; mọi tạo lập kết thúc trong hủy diệt; mọi gặp gỡ kết thúc trong chia ly; mọi sự sinh ra kết thúc trong cái chết.” – Milarepa

Một điều mà tôi mong ước cha mẹ tôi sử dụng thêm thời gian để dạy dỗ tôi là chân lý của sự vô thường. Hiểu rõ lẽ vô thường là một điều vô cùng hữu ích nhưng đáng buồn thay, đó lại là một điều mà hầu hết mọi người không bao giờ thực sự thấu hiểu.

Milarepa thường nói với mọi người rằng đừng quá dính mắc vào các sự việc bởi chúng sẽ không tồn tại lâu dài. Những mối quan hệ, của cải, công việc, nhà cửa, xứ sở v.v.., tất cả sẽ biến mất như một cầu vồng. Sẽ chẳng có gì tồn tại mãi mãi. Và nhờ thấu hiểu và tôn trọng chân lý này ta sẽ có thể vui hưởng cuộc đời nhiều hơn nữa. Những mối quan hệ của ta với thế giới trở nên hiện thực và lành mạnh hơn. Ta sẽ không mê mải bám chấp vào các sự việc khi ngăn cản chúng đừng chấm dứt. Khi thấu hiểu lẽ vô thường ta có thể nhận thức sâu sắc hơn về các sự việc khi chúng hiện hữu ở đây.

4. Đừng bị lừa gạt bởi những phóng dật thế gian.

“Những công việc của thế gian sẽ tiếp diễn không bao giờ ngừng nghỉ. Đừng trì hoãn thực hành thiền định” – Milarepa

Tôi thích trích dẫn này. Trong thực tế, tôi dùng câu trích dẫn này làm nền màn hình máy tính của tôi. Tôi đọc nó khi cần nhắc nhở mình rằng có những điều khác đáng làm hơn là chỉ ăn, ngủ và làm việc.

Tất cả chúng ta đều có thể đồng cảm với châm ngôn này, cho dù chúng ta không là những hành giả. Những công việc của thế gian sẽ tiếp diễn không bao giờ ngừng dứt. Sẽ luôn luôn có một người nào đó hay điều nào đó ngăn trở những hy vọng hay giấc mơ của quý vị. Có thể đó là công việc, tiền bạc hay một vài chướng ngại khác nhưng ngay khi quý vị vượt qua nó, một chướng ngại mới sẽ xuất hiện.

Milarepa bảo chúng ta đừng lãng phí thời gian mà phải thuận thảo với nó. Sẽ luôn luôn có những phóng dật và vấn đề, nhưng dù thế nào đi nữa thì chúng ta cần phải tiến tới. Điều này vô cùng quan trọng.

Sống và chết không hối tiếc.

“Tôn giáo của tôi không phải là đạo Phật. Tôn giáo của tôi là sống và chết không hối tiếc.” – Milarepa.

Đây luôn luôn là trích dẫn mà tôi yêu thích. Không chỉ riêng của Milarepa mà của mọi người, ở mọi nơi. Tôi đọc nó và cảm thấy hứng khởi trong việc làm một người tốt hơn và làm mọi sự tôi có thể khiến cho đời tôi ích lợi hơn và xứng đáng hơn. Tôi yêu quý trích dẫn đó bởi nó đánh mạnh vào cốt lõi của vấn đề và cho ta thấy việc đứng ở ngưỡng cửa của cái chết và hối tiếc về những điều mà ta từng làm (hay không làm!) trong tuổi thanh xuân thì khủng khiếp biết bao.

Những Bài Ca của Milarepa

Nếu quý vị thích thú trong việc nghiên cứu thêm nữa về đại hành giả này thì tôi hết sức khuyến khích quý vị đọc quyển sách nổi tiếng tên là Một Trăm ngàn Bài Ca của Milarepa. Đây luôn luôn là quyển sách tôi thích đọc nhất. Đó là một tuyển tập tuyệt vời gồm tất cả những bài thơ, bài hát và giáo lý của Milarepa.

Đó là một tác phẩm vô cùng súc tích. Đôi khi ngài hát về những điều như thể diễn ra sống động trong một hang động và quý vị cảm thấy như thể thực sự ở đó, ngay bên cạnh ngài. Những lúc khác ngài hát về lòng bi mẫn bùng cháy trong lòng ngài giống như một ngọn lửa và quý vị cảm nhận về điều gì đó như thể kinh nghiệm về lòng thương yêu đích thực.

Nói chung đó là một quyển sách thật đáng đọc. Quyển sách này từng hiện diện trong mọi gia đình ở Tây Tạng trong hàng trăm năm. Nó được đọc cho trẻ em khi chúng còn thơ ấu và sau đó được các tu sĩ nghiên cứu trong các tu viện.

Quý vị khó tìm được một người Tây Tạng nào không thể đọc thuộc lòng ít nhất một bài thơ của Milarepa.

Kết luận

Bài viết này sẽ không thể lưu hành mãi mãi. Tiểu sử của Milarepa có thể dạy chúng ta rất nhiều về việc chúng ta là ai và chúng ta có thể trở thành cái gì. Tuy nhiên, điều quan trọng nhất là nó cho chúng ta thấy rằng tất cả chúng ta đều có năng lực để chuyển hóa cuộc đời và hoàn cảnh của riêng mình. Chúng ta là chủ nhân số phận của chính mình.

Bản dịch Việt ngữ của Thanh Liên

[radical-revolution]

MILAREPA

Ten Ways of Being Quite Foolish.

I bow down at the feet of Marpa Lotsawa.

Listen, you with faith who support the Dharma.

It's quite foolish to commit negative actions without

thinking

While genuine Dharma is spreading everywhere.

It's quite foolish to waste this whole life

When you have what's so difficult to find, a human body

with leisure and resources.

It's quite foolish to stay always

In this cemetery of a city crumbling to ruins.

It's quite foolish to feud and fight

In this family, a mere passing crowd at the fair.

It's quite foolish to think your poor attitude is important

When these words of fame are but illusion's own sound.

It's quite foolish to risk your life in fighting

When an enemy's anger like a flower will fade away_

It's quite foolish to lament at the time of death

For deceitful relatives, a false home of devious ones.

It's quite foolish to let stinginess tie you in knots

When this wealth like dew is but a temporary loan.

It's quite foolish to polish up your image, wanting to

look good

When this skandha of form is just a bag of filth.

It's quite foolish to trade for food and wealth

These oral instructions, supreme food of pure nectar.

In a gathering of many fools

If you're clever, you'll practice sublime Dharma and

know your own way.

If you're bright, then do as I the yogi have done.

***

[taoofthedrakon]

Aw Eee Lews Therin Telamon Aw Eee Milarepa 777

Aw Eee Lews Therin Telamon Aw Eee OwainAdministratorAriosophiaPremananda Belisarius 🦢 ⚜️ Blumenthal Aryan 🦅 Anahate 🕉 Ananda 🇲🇪 PremPosts: 563Yoga: 💫 Orunbaya Chaitanya 🇼🇸 Cobra ⛎ BreathBio: Paramount Yogi अर्थी ♈ AriosofiniMember is OnlineFeb 16, 2023 at 4:14am  QuoteEditPost by Owain on Feb 16, 2023 at 4:14amकाठमाडौं Kalki Avatar 🇳🇦 🇶🇦 🇰🇬 🥟 🦢 ⚜️ OrderoftheDrakon.wordpress.com 🇵🇦…

[lamathanka]

Milarepa, the Yogi.

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#Milarepa #yogi #Jetsun #Buddhist #disciple #Tibetan #siddha #Kagyu #meditation #Hundredthousandsongs #thangka #lamathankapaintingschool #thankapainting #samadhi #sadhana #visualization #bodhicitta #dhamma #sangha #himalayanart #livingheritage #heritage #mindfullness #compassion

[newmic]

This video makes you discover the landscapes of Tibet, I went there twice, including once to make the great Buddhist pilgrimage of Mount Kailash

Mount Kailash (6638 m) for many spiritual doctrines is a mythical and sacred high place. For Buddhism, it is considered Mount Sumeru, the axial and central mountain of the universe. Many pilgrims, especially Tibetans, go there to circumambulate it in order to eradicate bad karma. One of the famous great beings who went there is Milarepa the Yogi to demonstrate the power of Dharma. It is also said that Buddha Śākyamuni flew over this mountain before going to the heavens to teach the devas. In addition to the essential Buddhist pilgrimage in India in the footsteps of Buddha Śākyamuni, this pilgrimage deserves to be made when possible at least once in a lifetime, even if it is less easy to access for various reasons. the cost of which

[compassionmattersmost]

Ramayana No. 6: The Misuse of Power and the Path to Dharma—Reflections on Milarepa

As I delve into Chapter 3 of the Ramayana, I’m struck by the behavior of the sages who, despite their spiritual stature, succumb to anger and misuse their power. Their quickness to curse, driven by offense and ego, stands in stark contrast to the ideal of a sage who lives in harmony with Dharma. This misuse of spiritual power reminds me of the early life of Milarepa, the great Tibetan yogi, who,…

[vaidhainshijindal]

Exploring Ladakh's Hidden Gems: Stongdey Monastery, Umba La Pass, and Zangla Village

Ladakh, with its rugged terrain and ancient monasteries, is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From the serene ambiance of Stongdey Monastery to the breathtaking views atop Umba La Pass and the picturesque charm of Zangla Village, each destination offers a unique glimpse into Ladakh's rich cultural and natural heritage. In this article, we delve into these lesser-known but equally captivating attractions.

Stongdey Monastery: A Spiritual Oasis

History and Heritage:

Stongdey Monastery, perched atop a hill in the Zanskar Valley, is one of Ladakh's hidden gems. Founded in the 11th century by Lama Marpa Lotsawa, a disciple of the renowned Tibetan yogi Milarepa, the monastery is steeped in history and spiritual significance. It belongs to the Drukpa Lineage of Tibetan Buddhism and serves as a center for meditation and religious study.

Architectural Marvels:

The monastery complex is characterized by its whitewashed walls, traditional Tibetan architecture, and stunning mountain backdrop. The main prayer hall, adorned with colorful frescoes and intricate thangkas, exudes a sense of peace and tranquility. Visitors can explore the various chapels, stupas, and meditation caves scattered throughout the monastery grounds.

Spiritual Practices:

Stongdey Monastery is home to a community of monks who follow a rigorous schedule of prayer, meditation, and ritual ceremonies. Visitors can participate in the daily prayers and rituals, gaining insights into the Buddhist philosophy and way of life. The monastery also hosts occasional festivals and religious events, providing a unique opportunity to experience Ladakh's spiritual heritage.

Umba La Pass: A Panoramic Vista

High Altitude Adventure:

Umba La Pass, located at an altitude of over 5,000 meters, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and valleys. The pass is accessible via a scenic trekking route that traverses through rugged terrain and alpine meadows. The journey to Umba La Pass is challenging but rewarding, with each step offering new vistas and experiences.

Natural Beauty:

The landscape surrounding Umba La Pass is characterized by its raw beauty and pristine wilderness. Towering snow-capped peaks, glistening glaciers, and crystal-clear streams dot the terrain, creating a postcard-perfect setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The pass is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare Himalayan species.

Adventure Activities:

Umba La Pass is a paradise for adventure seekers, offering a range of outdoor activities such as trekking, mountaineering, and camping. The rugged terrain and high altitude provide an adrenaline-pumping experience for those seeking an adventure off the beaten path. Visitors can also enjoy birdwatching, photography, and nature walks amidst the stunning landscapes.

Zangla Village: A Quaint Himalayan Hamlet

Rural Charms:

Zangla Village, nestled in the remote Zanskar Valley, offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life in rural Ladakh. The village is known for its ancient fort, quaint mud-brick houses, and terraced fields. Visitors can stroll through the narrow alleys, interact with the friendly locals, and experience the warmth and hospitality of village life.

Cultural Heritage:

Zangla Village is steeped in history and culture, with its roots dating back centuries. The village is home to several ancient monasteries, including the Zangla Monastery, which houses a rich collection of Buddhist artifacts. Visitors can witness age-old traditions, such as farming, weaving, and pottery, and learn about the unique customs and rituals of the local community.

Natural Splendor:

Apart from its cultural heritage, Zangla Village is blessed with breathtaking natural beauty. The surrounding mountains, meandering rivers, and verdant valleys provide a picturesque backdrop for exploration and photography. Trekking and camping are popular activities in the area, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the pristine wilderness of rural Ladakh.

Conclusion

Stongdey Monastery, Umba La Pass, and Zangla Village are just a few examples of Ladakh's hidden gems waiting to be explored. Whether seeking spiritual solace, panoramic vistas, or rural charm, these destinations offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Ladakh's cultural and natural heritage. So, embark on a journey of discovery and uncover the treasures that await in this enchanting land of the Himalayas.

[tibetshambhalaadventure]

Mount Kailash Tour: A Journey of Spiritual Awakening and Adventure

Tibet holds a variety of stunning natural wonders, from vast lakes to high peaks — and Mount Kailash shines above them all. Seen as the heart of spirituality in Asia, this great mountain reaches over 6600 meters into the sky and remains untouched by climbers. Its surroundings whisper tales of mystery, deep spiritual connections, and a rich tapestry of culture.

At over 6600 meters high, it’s a place that no one climbs, but many visit. This mountain is very important for people who follow Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon religion. Every year, many travelers come here for a holy walk around the mountain, showing its deep religious importance.

Many different people hold special beliefs about this enigmatic mountain. To Hindus, it is where their god Shiva lives; for Jains, it marks the place where Rishavdeva found eternal peace. Followers of Tibetan Buddhism view it as the home of Demchog and the legendary yogi Milarepa.

Despite the differences in faith, one truth holds firm: Mount Kailash is revered as a sacred site, not to be scaled but to be circled. Pilgrims of varying religions undertake a kora, a respectful walk around the foot of the mountain, adhering to age-old customs. This pilgrimage allows visitors a unique glimpse into the enduring practices and beliefs of the local populace.

Is trekking Mount Kailash for everyone?

Walking around Mount Kailash holds deep religious meaning, yet it's challenging. The path circles the mountain, and usually, locals can walk it in a day, but visitors from other places might need two to four days to finish it. The route sits at a high elevation (around 5000 meters), which can make the trek tough even for those who are used to climbing.

Altitude sickness is a real worry for climbers. It stops you in your tracks, leaving you too ill to continue. The key defense against this is staying hydrated and allowing your body to get used to the height. This means you should not rush to start your hike around Mount Kailash the moment you arrive in Tibet.

People who often hike and are used to tough trails might find the Mount Kailash trek a good test of their endurance. This trek pushes you to your limits as you pass through wide-open spaces, deep valleys, cold glaciers, and sacred lakes. Walking around this mountain offers a trekking adventure unlike any other.

A special aspect of the Mount Kailash tour is the chance to meet new people on the way. Throughout your walk, you can stop at places meant for prayer and where people camp, allowing you to talk to fellow travelers. Here, you learn about the different people making the pilgrimage. It's not just Tibetans on this spiritual journey; devout followers from India, Japan, and even further come with hopes of cleansing their past wrongs. Additionally, you'll encounter other trekkers from across the globe, allowing for an exchange of unique travel tales and viewpoints, enriching your experience.

What's the right weather for a Mt Kailash tour?

Mount Kailash holds treasures for both the adventure seeker and the spiritual pilgrim. This place is high up in the air, making walking a bit hard, especially when the weather is not kind. There are the best times in the year for visiting:

In April, it feels a bit chilly at 3 degrees Celsius.

May warms up slightly to 7 degrees Celsius.

June sees a comfortable 11 degrees Celsius.

September's mild at 8 degrees Celsius.

By October, it cools back down to 3 degrees Celsius.

For much of the year, from May through October, the weather in the area around Mount Kailash makes it good for visiting. The months of May, June, September, and October are especially nice for traveling here. During these times, the climate becomes welcoming, allowing travelers to experience the best of Mount Kailash without the harsh cold.

Choosing the right time to go is crucial. Despite the cold, these months offer clearer paths and less harsh weather, ensuring your trip around this sacred mountain is more about the experience and less about battling the cold.

Who is the best Tibet travel agency with which to book your Mount Kailash tour?

Tibet Shambhala Adventure Co. Ltd belongs wholly to Tibetans and stands as a reliable travel agency located in Lhasa. Our team brings passion and a deep insight into the culture, religion, and natural wonders of Tibet, thanks to our origins and upbringing in the region.

Our tours in Tibet begin in Lhasa or from different entry points like the border of Nepal or Lhasa's airport and cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, or Kunming. We work with helpers in Kathmandu who manage trips by land or air between Nepal and Tibet. They also take care of getting the needed papers for main land China and Tibet travel from Kathmandu.

Send email at our customer service team at info@shambhala-adventure.com or on our mobile at +86-13908907271 today and learn more about our tour packages.

Source URL: https://shambhala-adventure.com/mount-kailash-tour-a-journey-of-spiritual-awakening-and-adventure/

[yearsofrestandrelaxation]

How do we know if souls actually exist? What if it’s just wishful thinking and this the only attempt we get at life?

I referred to the human body as a vessel because it's profound we're more than flesh. Our minds hold so much power that can affect our body (for example, if you constantly worry about your health and live in a fight of flight mode, it's likely to actually develop a health problem.). The spoken word holds so much power. We can create our own reality and im not talking about it with ignorance, as i know that reality differs from one person to another. For example, I wouldn't go on homeless/starving people talking about creating their own reality because capitalism is deep into our lives unfortunately ,so it's important we take that factor into consideration.

Anyhow, it's kind of demeaning of us to believe that we're limited in the physical world. We've met many people and we instantly clicked like we already knew them. We've heard so much music that we've thought it reminded us of something, but couldn't really tell at the time. Some coincidences are actually synchronicities.

When we dream, our subconscious is active but our body is not, that's because at the time we're on the astral plane and not the physical. Isn't that fascinating?

Moreover, if you look at one's birth chart, many placements or aspects/degrees can sometimes 'justify' different situations of their life. The moon affects us as much as the sun. Think about menstruation and phases of the moon. Think about the eclipse, the new & full moon, and the feelings that often come up then. The world is a big, infinite energetic field where energy flows constantly, and it's abundant. Each being has energetic centers in their body, each related to aspects of health (sexual, gut, heart, mental health and confidence, etc). If energy can flow as well as get stuck in those centers, isn't it kinda obvious we're much more than flesh?

Last but not least, it's proven by gurus and yogis that through mediation we can reach higher levels of consciousness. We're definitely spiritual beings having a human experience and not vice versa.

You can check out Milarepa's (Tibetan yogi and spiritual poet) story too. Xx

[acalavidyaraja]

Blue Simple Ramadhan Kareem Intagram Post_20240214_210158_0000.png

This stream of enlightened mind ~ Milarepa

All the water and drink you’ve consumed

From beginningless time until now

Has failed to satisfy your thirst or bring you contentment.

Drink therefore of this stream

Of enlightened mind, Fortunate Ones

Milarepa, the renowned Tibetan Buddhist yogi and poet, left behind a legacy of profound teachings that continue to inspire seekers of spiritual truth. One of his most famous teachings is encapsulated in the metaphor of the "stream of enlightened mind." In this teaching, Milarepa invites us to contemplate the nature of our desires and the pursuit of contentment.

1 Understanding the Metaphor:

Milarepa compares the pursuit of worldly pleasures to drinking water from various sources. He suggests that despite consuming countless experiences and possessions in our quest for happiness, we remain unsatisfied and discontented. This metaphorical water represents the transient nature of material pursuits and their inability to quench the deeper thirst for lasting fulfillment.

2 The Futility of Worldly Pursuits:

Milarepa emphasizes the futility of seeking contentment solely through external means. He suggests that no matter how much we accumulate or indulge in worldly pleasures, they ultimately fail to provide lasting satisfaction. This echoes the Buddhist concept of impermanence, which teaches that all conditioned phenomena are transient and subject to change.

3 Turning Inward:

Instead of endlessly chasing after external sources of happiness, Milarepa encourages us to turn inward and tap into the "stream of enlightened mind." This stream represents the innate wisdom and clarity that resides within each individual. By cultivating mindfulness, introspection, and spiritual practice, we can access this stream and experience true contentment.

4 Path to Liberation:

Milarepa's teaching points towards the path of liberation from the cycle of suffering known as samsara. By recognizing the limitations of worldly pursuits and nurturing our inner wisdom, we can free ourselves from attachment and craving. This leads to a state of genuine peace and fulfillment that transcends the ups and downs of worldly existence.

5 Fortunate Ones:

Milarepa addresses his audience as the "Fortunate Ones" who have the opportunity to drink from the stream of enlightened mind. This designation highlights the preciousness of human life and the potential for spiritual awakening. It also underscores the responsibility of those who encounter his teachings to make the most of this rare opportunity for inner transformation.

Milarepa's teaching on the stream of enlightened mind serves as a powerful reminder of the ephemeral nature of worldly pursuits and the enduring value of inner wisdom. By shifting our focus from external gratification to inner cultivation, we can discover a deeper sense of fulfillment and ultimately attain liberation from suffering. As we navigate the complexities of life, may we heed Milarepa's timeless wisdom and drink deeply from the stream of enlightened mind.

[mahayanapilgrim]

Yoga and the Subtle Body

Now when most of us think of yogis, we think of somebody sitting like a famous yogi, like Milarepa, sitting up in a cave in the mountains, cross-legged and naked. There was snow, and ants were eating him, and the only food he took was nettle soup, and he ate it for so long he developed a green nettle fur all over him. But he was busy freeing himself from samsara in order to come into union. Now that kind of moratorium is pretty unrealistic for most Westerners, so what role does yoga play in the West for us at the moment?

Well, along the way it will teach you how to control your consciousness, calm your own mind down, find a center, and get your body into harmony with your thoughts. It will get you back far enough inside yourself so that you can start to see how it all is, and start to experience compassion for yourself and for others around you. ~ Ram Dass

"The body contains channels and the mind is associated with the energies that flow through the channels. When the impure karmic energy associated with the deluded mind flows through impure channels, it gives rise to the three poisons - attachment, aversion, and bewilderment.

If the karmic energy that creates these three poisons is purified, this allows the wisdom energy to arise. And when one's channels, energies, and essence become wisdom channels, wisdom energy, and wisdom essence, one obtains supreme concentration, perfect recollection, and confidence."

Kyabje Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche - Zurchungpa's Testament - on Wisdom

[planetdharma]

Entering the Stream of Freedom: Karma Yoga and Dharma Training

There’s political freedom, freedom of expression and freedom of opportunity, all of which are action oriented, external manifestations. We can also enjoy freedom from troubled mind states and freedom from the roller coaster of emotional turbulence: these are inner freedoms. Which most represents “freedom” to you?

The spiritual life focuses on the inner freedoms and our everyday lives focus on the freedom of the action-oriented pursuits. Historically, these two worlds have been separate. The outer freedoms were, and are, being sought in the socio-political arena. The inner freedoms have been the purview of the religious world.

Traditionally, there were two methods used to develop the inner freedoms. One is the monastic model and the other, for lack of a better word, the yogic model.

In the yogic model an adept lived and studied in close contact with their teacher in a day-to-day ongoing relationship that could last years. One classic example is the Tibetan yogi-saint, Milarepa, who lived and trained for years with his teacher, Marpa.

Does Karma Yoga Involve Backbends?

Well, not the usual, physical kind – Karma Yoga makes us limber in other ways. “Karma” means “action” or “activity” and also implies the law of cause and effect. If you wished to be clever you could say it was the “car” or vehicle of “ma,” the mother. That’s to say, it’s evolution in progress, because we learn and evolve through our activity.

“Yoga” means “to join” or “unite,” as we see in the word “yoke,” which joins two oxen together to double their power and energy and effectiveness. We could consider one ox as the body, the other ox as mind. Together karma and yoga link body and mind in balanced and wholesome activity. This activity in turn evolves our understanding towards a more awakened and compassionate engagement with ourselves, with others and with the world.

Source URL: https://www.planetdharma.com/entering-the-stream-of-freedom-karma-yoga-and-dharma-training/

[meditation-practices]

Words of Wisdom for October 25, 2023

Dear Friends: Notice: I’m okay right now. Not forever, but in this moment I can be okay with my whole life exactly as it is. Not next moment, this moment. – Martha Beck, Life Reboot: From Chaos to Clarity Read More Mini Mindfulness Breaks Click here to offer what you can for eBooks and Guided Mediations! Here’s an interesting post from Meditation Practices: ? Milarepa The Yogi – YouTube ?…

[wordbirb]

Album Review: Circulation of Light by IVU

Berlin-based electronic music producer Jing Yu 虞菁 aka IVU has just released a new mini-album. It features six tracks. Each has its own distinct feeling, genre wise ranging from Minimal Techno to Tech-House and UK Garage  - if you want to put labels on it. The artist invites the listener to go on an inner-dance journey. Titled "Circulation of Light”, the name is inspired by The Secret of the Golden Flower  太乙金華宗旨, a 17th Daoist meditation book on the concept of inner alchemy which was first introduced into Western countries by Richard Wilhelm and Carl Jung. As the production is bass heavy and highly dense, it is need of a good sound system or headphones.

The first track ‘San’ has the groove of something that you might hear at four in the morning at Get Perlonized (a German label party founded in 1997 by Markus Nikolai and Thomas Franzmann aka Zip, known for trailblazing in minimalistic experimental Tech-House). ‘Amoeba’ follows, which sounds as trippy as a single cell organism looks like under the microscope. Time wise it might be the shortest, but the next track ‘Ye Ye’ has all qualities of a banger that can make hearts meld together. For those who love the early 00s breakbeat vibe, this is a real gem. Side B starts with ‘Another Trip’ and has a muffled lullaby-like vocal which takes the listener down a Perlonesque rabbit hole. ‘Mount Kailash’ with its four to the floor beat has a mesmerizing sound texture that undulates, transmitting a hovering sensation through an eventful soundscape, a highlight on this album. The last track is layered in meditative frequencies guided by a hypnotic beat. We hear the voice of the American electronic music composer Robert Ashley ‘What Was Unclear Is Clear’ from Éliane Radigue's "Songs of Milarepa” (an album that was compiled in Radigue’s analog studio between 1981 and 1983, inspired by the life of the 11th century Tibetan Buddhist poet and revered yogi).

All tracks are characteristic for IVU’s sound in that they are capable of painting sonic pictures that are outstanding for their emotional depth. Due to her use of modular synths in combination with self-built MaxMSP patches, the uniqueness is audible even for those who are unfamiliar with the processes of electronic music production. The inclusion of samples from spiritual sources adds another layer to the music that when played to an open and engaged crowd could without a doubt take the dance floor to the next level.