The Torch of Certainty

by Jamgon Kongtrul, Chögyam Trungpa (Foreword)

This translation of a fundamental Tantric text reveals the richness and profundity of the intellectual and contemplative traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. The text describes the Four Foundation Practices that all practitioners of Vajrayana Buddhism must complete. The nature of impermanence, the effects of karma, the development of an enlightened attitude, and devotion to the guru are among the subjects treated in this book. Three eminent contemporary Tibetan Buddhist masters—Kalu Rinpoche, Deshung Rinpoche, and Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche—explain the significance of The Torch of Certainty for modern-day students and practitioners of Tibetan Buddhism.

Genres: Buddhism, Religion, Nonfiction, Meditation, Spirituality

222 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1850

About the author

Jamgön Kongtrül is a name of a prominent line of Tibetan Buddhist teachers (lama), primarily identified with the first Jamgon Kongtrul, but also the name shared by members of a lineage held by tradition to be his subsequent reincarnations (tulku), to date.

The first Jamgon Kongtrul, Jamgön Kongtrül Lodrö Thayé, was one of the preeminent scholars in 19th century Tibet. Tibetan Buddhists believe that he had multiple simultaneous emanations; only one of these, Khyentse Özer, was called the second Jamgon Kongtrul. The recognition of the fourth Jamgon Kongtrul is presently in dispute, complicated by the ongoing controversy regarding the recognition of the genuine reincarnation of H.H. the 17th Karmapa.

Reviews

[Alex Lemus · Rating 2 out of 5]

If you are starting the Ngondro practice this is a must have, very clear and concise description of what you'll need to know for the practice.

[C. Varn · Rating 5 out of 5]

For those entering the practices Vajrayana practices, Ngöndro is the gateway. This book is a clear translation of this classic of the preliminary practices by the Takpo Kagyü master and key figure of the Ri-me movement. While some of the Kongtrul's style may seem esoteric or hyperbolic to modern sensibilities, the translation of Judith Hanson remain readable and endnotes clarify esoteric, idiomatic, and historical points that can trip a modern reader up. The introductions and discussions by Kalu Rinpoche, Deshung Rinpoche, and Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche function as a solid bridge between Jamgon Kongtrul's context and erudition and the modern world. Some of the Ngöndro practices, mantras, and prayers may seem unrelated to the attitudes and philosophical dharma points that undergird the book, they are designed to inculcate the fundamental values and understandings of impermanence, karma, the development of an enlightened attitude, and guru devotion as practices for those entering Tibetan Buddhist practice. While the perspective is generally from the Kagyü lineage and thus related to those kinds of trainings, those in Ri-me traditions and sanghas would benefit from it. My own Sangha operates both in the Karma Kagyü and the Longchen Nyingtik Nyingma traditions and we use this in our preliminary practices. However, even with the introduction and solid notes, I am not sure this would be useful to those new to Buddhism without a formal teacher to help them navigate it.

[Meike · Rating 5 out of 5]

A precious classic by a realized Buddhist meditation master explaining in detail the four foundational meditation practices of Vajrayana Buddhism (tib. Ngöndro). A must-read for any Ngöndro practicioners from my point of view, highly recommendable.

[Maarten Degryse · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not an easy read but essential for people doing the ngondro.

[M.E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

The definitive book describing the ngöndro of the Takpo Kagyü. Wouldn't recommend it to anyone not doing the practice.

[Troy · Rating 5 out of 5]

To understand Tibetan Buddhism - this book is essential.

[Mark Bourdon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely a must if you are doing the preliminary practices

[Michael Kilman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Helpful alongside practice of the four preliminaries.