Dharmachakra Translation Committee

The Dharmachakra Translation Committee draws its inspiration from the vision, commitment, and magnificent achievements of past Buddhist translators. Directed by Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche, the Committee is dedicated to making Buddhist classics available to modern readers in their native languages.

Shechen Gyaltsap Gyurme Pema Namgyal

Shechen Gyaltsap (1871–1926), also known as Gyurmé Pema Namgyal, was a renowned master of the Great Perfection, or Dzogchen, the pinnacle of the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. He was one of Jamgön Mipham Rinpoche’s closest disciples and the root teacher of Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche. He is thus a wellspring of the wisdom and accomplishments of the present generation of teachers.

"These two works give an introduction to the preliminary trainings, outline the primary elements of visualization practice and mantra recitation, and supply a detailed explanation of the practice of Padmasambhava's wisdom aspect Guru Vadisimha. Through practical, step-by-step instructions on this deity, the reader is guided into the general world of tantric practice common to all of Tibetan Buddhism. These two authentic manuals give the reader practical understanding of Mahayoga, the foundation for the inner tantras, in all its incredible depth. They are a true treasury of powerful tools to transform the habitual ways of our human condition into the path of enlightenment." —Eric Pema Kunsang, compiler and translator of Wellsprings of the Great Perfection: The Lives and Insights of the Early Masters

"What does it mean to have a precious human life? How can we make use of it when we have no idea how long it will last? What is the use of trying to be good? What is the difference between the fleeting happiness that constantly slips through our fingers and true contentment? Whether one is a newcomer to Tibetan Buddhism, considering taking a step onto its path, or an old hand at meditation practice, the four reflections that Shechen Gyaltsap lays out on the preciousness of human life, impermanence, karma, and the ultimately dissatisfying quality of life are sure to inspire us to take hold of our lives." —from the Introduction