The Dzogchen

who established the dharma there in the 8th century. Like the later traditions

of the Kagyu, Sakya and Gelug it is grounded in the mystical experience of

Vajrayana or Tantric Buddhism. These most essential teachings of Buddha

are considered ‘secret’, making use of esoteric language and techniques.

Their meaning can only be revealed to those who have established the

proper motivation of universal altruism and the correct view of reality-the

view of emptiness.

Because the scope of the sutras and tantras is vast many of the great

Tibetan masters condensed their essential points into easily followed

prayers for practice. This is one such text and, rather than being a prayer,

it is a guide for contemplation, providing the necessary link between sutra

and tantra.