A Roll of Thunder from the Void: Vajrakila Texts of the Northern Treasures Tradition, Volume Two

Vajrakila texts of the Northern Treasures Tradition #2

by Martin J. Boord, Padma Trinley (Contributor), Rigdzin Godem (Contributor)

This important collection of teachings from the Northern Treasures Vajrakila cycle includes liturgical practice texts (sadhana) from the original treasure revelations, together with explanatory notes and commentaries by the 17th century master Padma ’phrin-las on how to take these practices into a closed retreat and employ them for the highest benefit of oneself and all living beings. Having become empowered in the mandala of Vajrakila by a master guru, trainees may use the skilful esoteric techniques, described herein, in order to develop a profound experiential certainty of the true nature of reality. These texts are manuals, designed to be studied by disciplined individuals who wish to train themselves in skilful altruism. They are traditional methods for overcoming the instincts of egoistic self-interest, allowing the mind to become focused on the general welfare of the world, so that beneficial changes of great social value may be brought about in both thought and behaviour.

Painstakingly researched and annotated, this volume includes English translations of eight important texts, together with much of the original Tibetan.

Within the instructions for the preparation and protection of the retreat area are hitherto unpublished details of the means to suppress the various classes of afflicting demons (sri) that are potential causes of downfall for all tantric yogins. This is an ancient and vital aspect of vajrayana ritual practice that has been much neglected until now.

edition khordong at Wandel Verlag, Berlin, 2010, 432 pages, 3 illustrations, English and Tibetan, sewn pages, hard cover.

Genres: Buddhism

432 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2010

About the author

Ven. Dr. Martin Boord (ceremonially named Rig-'dzin rdo-rje) studied early in his life with Lama Khamtrul Yeshe Dorje, Chhimed Rigdzin Rinpoche and Dudjom Rinpoche. In 1993 he received a doctorate for his thesis The Cult of the Deity Vajrakila from the University of London.

He taught for some years at the University of Oxford and currently lives with his wife in quiet seclusion in England, devoting himself to the study of the Northern Treasures (Byang-gter}.