Reflections on a Mountain Lake: Teachings on Practical Buddhism

by Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo

“Tenzin Palmo is one of the most genuine and accomplished of western practitioners. Her voice is simple and pure, wise and true.” —Jack Kornfield, author of Path with a Heart

This sparkling collection of Dharma teachings by Tenzin Palmo addresses issues of common concern to Buddhist practitioners from all traditions. Personable, witty, and insightful, Tenzin Palmo presents an inspiring and no-nonsense view of Buddhist practice.

Genres: Buddhism, Spirituality, Nonfiction, Religion, Philosophy, Self Help, Meditation

304 pages, Paperback

First published May 30, 2002

About the author

Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo (born 1943) is a bhikṣuṇī in the Drukpa Lineage of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. She is an author, teacher and founder of the Dongyu Gatsal Ling Nunnery in Himachal Pradesh, India. She is best known for being one of the very few Western yoginis trained in the East, having spent twelve years living in a remote cave in the Himalayas, three of those years in strict meditation retreat.

Vicki Mackenzie, who wrote Cave in the Snow about her, relates that what inspired the writing of the book was reading Tenzin Palmo's statement to a Buddhist magazine that "I have made a vow to attain Enlightenment in the female form - no matter how many lifetimes it takes".

Reviews

[Jason · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're looking for a compass to chart your course, look no further. This is one of the most spiritual books I have ever read. Whether or not you believe in enlightened beings, Tenzin is one of the most compassionate, sincere, and thought-provoking women to come along. She presents pearls of wisdom on every page of this book and lays out a clear path toward greater peace and fulfillment in this life. This book is just as important for the master as it is for the beginner. Read it. Re-read it. But most importantly, let these ideas transform your daily walk.

[Chris Coffman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a spiritual classic, instantly and deeply meaningful to any reader who is looking for real guidance on the path towards meaning and purpose in life.

Although REFLECTIONS ON A MOUNTAIN LAKE isn't the global best seller that it deserves to be, Tenzin Palmo herself is fairly well-known as the Englishwoman who lived in a cave in the Himalayas for 12 years. She says several times that living in a cave for 12 years is not necessary to achieve enlightenment, but she herself emerged as a truly remarkable human of great wisdom, compassion and insight into the human condition.

One is constantly reminded of St. Augustine's CONFESSIONS and Plato's DIALOGUES as one reads this collection of her talks, which includes question and answer sessions with her listeners. It really is in same class as these works, along with others such as the TAO TE CHING and the IMITATION OF CHRIST.

It is such a wonderful book, not only for its first class intellectual content, but because Tenzin Palmo, good Tibetan Buddhist that she is, is concerned primarily and repeatedly with sharing practical advice on meditation and day-to-day living. She wants to make a real, positive difference in the lives of her listeners and her readers.

A minor issue is Palmo's occasional, mild, swipes at other religious traditions; she seems to be unaware of the convergence of her own insights with those, for example, of Catholic monasticism. This is a minor issue, and one that is easily corrected by reading Merton's THE SILENT LIFE, for example.

But despite its minor flaws, its only peers include the best books, in the next class directly below the sacred texts themselves, spanning the millenia of recorded human inquiry into spiritual experience. I hope REFLECTIONS finds many readers today . . . I am confident that it will be read for many generations to come.

[Can · Rating 5 out of 5]

it is one of the best spiritual books i have ever read. Tenzin Palmo is very inspiring, sincere and sometimes provoking. She gives all the basics about the Buddhism and the practice especially for westerners. Her journey is quite exciting and she tells her story with lots of humorous comments. i felt Buddhism more approachable for myself after reading her book.

[Rhiannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was outstanding. I checked it out from the library but will definitely buy it. Each chapter is transcribed from a lecture followed by a Q&A, with Tenzin Palmo's no-nonsense lucidity lighting up each topic. As a Westerner, she makes Buddhism practical and accessible to audiences on this side of the hemisphere with her sharp wit and insights. I wish I could think of more to say but I've already returned the book so can't quote specifics, but Tenzin Palmo is a one-of-a-kind orator. It's a must-read for anyone studying the Buddhist path, from the mildly curious to the fully initiated.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one I keep by my bed and read over and over. I guess I hope it inhabits me someday. Very accessible lectures about Buddhism and living.

[Gerardo · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very, very interesting collection of Dharma talks given by Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo, one of the most inspiring and realized Western yoginis of our time.

In them, she speaks about everything from her experience in living in a cave for 12 years to Buddhist cosmology, motivation, the Three Higher Trainings, Mindfulness, the Nature of the Mind and even Vajrayana practice - all in an easy, straightforward way that is not only understandable to Westerners, but also implementable in daily life.

I especially appreciated Tenzin Palmo's honesty with some of the most troublesome things in Tibetan Buddhism for Westerners, such as the Guru-Disciple relationship, the karma & reincarnation issue and the visualization of deities in tantra. She deals with these issues with both authoritativeness and a sense of humor, making a much more clear picture for the audience about the topic at hand.

In sum, I would highly recommend to read this book for anyone interested in Tibetan Buddhism, regardless their previous experience in the area. Tenzin Palmo's remarks work as the best Dharma - always teaching something valuable for both the new and the old practicioners alike.

[Jim Lavis · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book “Cave in the Snow” inspired me to read this collection of lectures by Tenzin Palmo. Tenzin Palmo is truly a scholar when it comes to Buddhism and mediation. I respect her approach on religious studies and how curiosity played such a role in her life. She has a knack of being able to capture and communicate her life’s experiences. Many of these thoughts in this book were shared within her memoir “Cave in the Snow,” but I felt these lectures added some depth to our understanding.

There are so many paragraphs or sections within these lectures that are so poignant and well said I can’t say enough about her wisdom and her ability to simplify such complex concepts. Now on the other hand, there are many portions within these lectures that focus on the different philosophies or teachings of Buddhism that are a bit too academic for me, but with all that being said, I love the way she writes and communicates to a western audience.

[Raul · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Our whole life is made up moment after moment after moment. If we miss these moments through thinking about something else, they are gone forever. If we bring our consciousness to the task at hand, whatever it is, the mind itself is washed clean. There is no stress attached to doing this." * "We must try to develop the practice of giving everything we do our full attention. The thing that we are doing in this moment is the most important thing we could possibly be doing, because it is what we are doing. Everything else is just thinking "about." It's just memory or anticipation. The only reality we have is what we are doing in this very moment. And if we miss that, we've lost it, forever, because it's gone." * "We become dulled by the force of habit. We no longer see, and we think that everything is boring. Little children are fascinated by everything around them because everything is interesting to them. [...] Children don't have preconceptions, they don't make comparisons or interpretations." * "Our lives are not dull. We make them dull because our minds are dull." * "If you have the chance, the great opportunity to know, suddenly, that you are going to die, then that is a wonderful opportunity to decide once and for all what is important and what is not important. What is important to think and what is not important to think. What emotions it is necessary to cling to and what it is not necessary to cling to. It's a wonderful opportunity to come face to face with what matters and what does not matter. Death is not a bad thing; we all have to go. But we must use this opportunity to grow up and to clear our relationships. Not clinging, just loving without attachment. To really face who we are. To die without regret. To feel that we have lived our lives in such a manner that it's ok to go now. And if we are faced with the fact that we are going to die within a short time, remember that we are all going to die within a short time anyway, but we just don't realize that. If we are forced to face this fact, then this is a great opportunity for enormous inner transformation." * "Everything is a projection of our minds. Just as in the physical realm, we are all projecting. We are each living within our own projections. There is some physical basis. It is not completely arbitrary. But everybody sees things with their own interpretations. We are all projecting our own movie. When we no longer have a physical base, after the death of the body, our mind will create the seeming external appearances. Therefore it is important to write a good script while we have the chance, because we are going to be fully involved in the movie afterwards!" * "In our normal state of mind, we are completely submerged in our thoughts and feelings. There is no inner space available. When we think, we think we are the thoughts. When we feel, we think we are the feelings. We are completely identified with our thoughts and feelings. We totally believe in them. We are totally engulfed in them. This is one of the reasons why we suffer so much."

[Jonathan Waxman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo was the second Westerner woman ever to become a Tibetan Buddhist nun. Currently she runs a nunnery in India called Dongyu Gatsal Ling to educate and train young Tibetan and Himalayan girls. I attended a talk in Philly she once gave on a fund raising tour to raise money for her nunnery. After she spoke, I met her. I forget what was said, but as I knelt down and approached her, she grasped my hands for a long moment. For some reason, all I really remember is how brilliantly her eyes beamed with love and joy. Meeting her was one of the more memorable experiences of my life. She really is quite exceptional. Anyway, this book of hers is also quite exceptional for two reasons. First, her life story is absolutely fascinating, and she must have unbelievable courage to achieve what she has accomplished. Second, her presentation of Buddhism is incredible clear and engaging. So highly recommended.

[Rubina · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a wonderful collections of Dharma teachings by Venerable Tenzin Palmo. It starts off with an introduction of Tenzin Palmo's early life, her interest in spiritualism and existentialism before discovering Buddhism. Being one of the early Western practitioners of Buddhism and recognizing the recent growing interest in Buddhism from the West, her explaination of Buddhist teachings and practices are concise, straightforward and easy to understand. What i especially like is that at the end of each chapter there is a Q&A section (from audiences of her talks) which provides further great insights.
Definitely an insightful and inspirational book for any practising Buddhist or layperson.

[Karma Pema Tsering · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am only half way through the book but am sure that once read I´ll just turn to page one again and read it at least once more. Ani Tenzin Palmo has advanced to another state of being. What a beautiful, honest and free being - so inspiring. If you´re interested in Meditation or Buddhism or both, no matter if beginner or advanced practitioner, indeed you will enjoy this one as much as I do. Do yourself a favour and get it!

[Phil Calandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author presents an inspiring and insightful view of Buddhist philosophy and practice. The author is able to communicate her lifetime spiritual pursuits and complex concepts of Buddhist practice in simple terms. This is an excellent book for anyone interested in Buddhist beliefs and a particular way of living. I would highly recommend this book.

[Chris Lemig · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best compilations of teachings on Buddhism I've ever read. Very clear and useful.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this book so much I put it on my Amazon Wishlist

[Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a difficult book to rate because there's just so much there. Reflections on a Mountain Lake: Teachings on Practical Buddhism is a collection of transcribed Dharma talks (with Q and A) by the Venerable Tenzin Palmo. Such a treasure trove of ideas and stories. Some of the chapters would be very appropriate and helpful for beginners while others address topics that are maybe better for those with at least a little experience. These sorts of texts are so valuable, especially to Westerners trying to understand and follow a Buddhist path, and especially for those who don't currently have ready or easy access to teachers or a Sangha with experienced members. Maybe also as a record for the evolution of Buddhist thought as it slowly makes it's way in the West. I will likely reread and revisit many, many times.

[Roberto Martinez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely a great book if you are looking to learn more about Buddhism and the spiritual path. The Q & A in some chapters is very insightful. I also really liked the chapter on "Difficult Points for Westerners." There is a lot to learn and a lot to process. She discusses the importance of respect and love in our daily practice. The book reminded me that growing spiritually is not just about practice but also impact versus intent. She challenges the reader to think of what is behind our intentions when it comes to serving others.

[Elvis Gregory-sayce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely Life Changing

[K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ani Tenzin Palmo's *Reflections on a Mountain Lake* begins with her personal journey, detailing her upbringing in London, her discovery of Buddhism, and her transformative twelve-year retreat in the Himalayas. This foundation sets the stage for her teachings on motivation, ethics, and the three trainings of Buddhism: ethics, meditation, and wisdom. Palmo emphasizes the importance of a strong intention and ethical living as the bedrock of spiritual practice, providing practical advice for cultivating these qualities.

The book delves into various aspects of Buddhist practice, including the six realms of existence, the unique challenges faced by women in Buddhism, and the practices of shamatha (calm abiding) and vipashyana (insight) meditation. Palmo's teachings are accessible and relatable, offering guidance on maintaining awareness and mindfulness in daily life.

In the latter chapters, Palmo explores advanced topics such as the nature of the mind, the role of the spiritual master, and the principles of Vajrayana Buddhism. Her teachings are enriched with personal anecdotes and reflections, making complex concepts understandable and applicable. Throughout the book, Palmo's wisdom and compassion shine through, offering readers a profound and practical guide to Buddhist practice and personal growth.

[Ila · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible book for anyone interested in Buddhism, and especially women, who don’t have the same avenues as men even here.

‘Reflections on a Mountain Lake’ is a collection of Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo’s Dharma teachings and lectures. The topics range from her journey and experience as a woman walking the Buddhist path, to the nuances of Tibetan Buddhism. It also gives conceptual clarity on the difference between Shamatha and Vipassana, the Vajrayana school of thought, and so on. But what I loved the most is the feminist underpinning throughout the book - refreshing to read in a Buddhist world dominated by male monks and writers.

Jetsunma also has a fascinating backstory herself - she lived and meditated in a cave in complete seclusion for twelve years - and later founded a beautiful nunnery in Palampur. She trained in a monastery full of men where she was the only woman, and despite all the barriers, discrimination, and roadblocks she faced, managed to carve her way through.

[Steve Woods · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book writthen by an amazing woman. She had the spiritual bent to begin with. Without it I think it would have been next to imppossible to do what she did. She has tremendous insight into the Buddhist path and the following of it. For anyone interested in the Buddha's teaching or meditation it's a very useful book. It shows how another human being has been able to move a great distancve towards what the Buddha taught is our purpose in this life. Her easy style and clarity of understanding mke it a really accessible read. There are Q&A seesions at the end of every chapet presenting questions that many of us have had and her answers illuminate and guide in a very real way. This has been a great book for me. I have been able to translate what is being put into my owqn practice and my life.

I recommend it to anyone and everyone. I hope my kids read it

[Noah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had borrowed this book from an acquaintance over a year ago, and the passage of time had me too ashamed to even open it for so long. I'm very glad I didn't let those feelings prevent me from readind it forever. I've been interested in buddhism for a long time now, but never quite knew how to properly start researching it: only to find exactly what i needed right here. If you're a westerner, i highly recommend giving this book a try, whether or not you're interested in buddhism or spirituality in general. Tenzin Palmo provides the reader with great wisdom that anyone can use to improve their day to day life, as well as a very straight-forward introduction to (tibetan) buddhism to those interested in approaching the topic.

[Rochelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a very personal look at Ven. Palmo's spiritual path, a path that has led her to support many women's aspirations to the Dharma. Her commitment to and passion for Buddhism is also balanced with humor and a real understanding of difficult it is to follow one's choices and to be completely responsible for one's own life. This book is a must read for its many clear explanations of Buddhism, Tibetan Buddhism in particular, and for its balanced view of a life committed to a spiritual path.
Well done.

[Amanda]

I was hoping to read more of a female perspective on Buddhism, and I can't say I really got that from this book. I don't understand much about Buddhism, although I am trying, but Ani Tenzin Palmo doesn't seem to understand much about feminism. I was at times quite frustrated at how Buddhist concepts were applied to social justice issues when the issues themselves were poorly described. But, at the end of the day this is a book about Buddhism, not about social justice or feminism, and in regards to that, I did take a lot away from it and I admire the author.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this book is so moving, so smart, so satisfying. I have begun to read it online thru my library's connection to some library in Colorado but am so ordering my own copy because it's certain to be dog-eared, highlighted and otherwised loved to death. It's like the answers to so many questions and not at all mysterious, or silly or fluffy. This lady is so wise, I wish I could go on some 3 year long mountain cave retreat with her and just listen.

[Kristine · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have a meditation practice, this isn't a book you "finish." It's a study guide on how to shape your practice/life toward an ongoing state of awareness while expanding the mind into non-dualism except that can't be your goal or you'll hit another wall lol. Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo suggests: Ride the wave, relax, enjoy and perhaps by using this guide and holding a dedicated daily practice you'll get there.

[Gemma Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

A brilliant and lucid set of teachings from a Western Buddhist nun, including a fascinating account of her time spent on retreat in a cave in the mountains of India. The book is made up of a set of talks followed by question and answer sessions. She conveys things in a very clear and straightforward way, and her example is inspiring.

[Can · Rating 5 out of 5]

it is one of the best spiritual books i have ever read. Tenzin Palmo is very inspiring, sincere and sometimes provoking. She gives all the basics about the Buddhism and the practice especially for westerners. Her journey is quite exciting and she tells her story with lots of humorous comments. i felt Buddhism more approachable for myself after reading her book.

[Ben Payne · Rating 4 out of 5]

There were sections I really enjoyed, although in parts it become a bit "religious"; Palmo is more into things like rebirth and cosmology than I am, so I skimmed those parts. The practical aspects though were great.

[Neil Crowle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of the many books I have previously read trying to understand Tibetan Buddhism, this is one of the few that made sense, along with the author's other well-known work 'Cave in the Snow'. 'Reflections on a Mountain Lake' is clear, entertaining and immensely readable.

[Peter · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ani Tenzin Palmo is a British born Buddhist nun. This is a set of lectures by her with some practical explanations and about Buddhist practice.