Chenrezig, Lord of Love: Principles and Methods of Deity Meditation

by Bokar Rinpoche, Christiane Buchet (Translator), Dan Jorgensen

Deity meditation is perhaps the least understood of all practices within Tibetan Buddhism. Yet the use of visualized images in mental and spiritual development forms the heart of this practice. For over a thousand years monks, nuns, and mountain yogins have developed and perfected this unique style of meditation. Recently many exiled Tibetan masters have been actively teaching in Western countries. These teachers have very generously shared their contemplative knowledge and experience, including instructions for deity meditation. A small but growing number of people have attempted to practice these teachings. For most this has not been an easy path. Many feel there is something here very precious and valuable but difficult to approach. For a person not raised in the sphere of Tibetan culture fruitful practice of deity meditation requires a sound understanding of its basic intention and principles. Bokar Rinpoche in this small volume directly addresses the needs and concerns of Westerners venturing into the lofty, yet sometimes, confusing world of deity meditation. He clearly sets forth the principles and theory of this meditation using a minimum of technical terminology and then gives instructions for the practice of Chenrezig. With his many years of study, practice, and teaching he is uniquely qualified to present these teachings. Through his deep experience and wisdom condensed here he unfolds a world and makes possible an authentic connection with it. Still it must be said that for those interested in pursuing this practice, a book is not a substitute for contact with a living teacher. The Buddha Sakyamuni used oral instruction as the basic vehicle of teaching and all Buddhist meditative lineages have continued this custom. Many dharma centers can now be found throughout the world where one may receive qualified guidance for the practices discussed in this book.

Genres: Buddhism, Spirituality, Religion

112 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1991

About the author

Bokar Tulku Rinpoche, Karma Shedrup Yongdu Pel Zangpo, was heart-son of the Kalu Rinpoche and a holder of the Karma Kagyü and Shangpa Kagyü lineages. He was later one of the principle teachers of the Kalu Yangzi, held to be the reincarnation of H.E. Kalu Rinpoche, and served as director of the Kalu Rinpoche Translation Group.

Reviews

[André Pais · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short and succinct, but very pithy and informative. Covers quite a bit of ground. Some portions are actually quite profound. Highly recommended!

[C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent introduction to Cherezig as a figure in Buddhism, as well as a wonderful guide to the Chenrezig practice. Bokar Rinpoche's books are always very readable and accessible to Western readers, yet he never waters down Buddhism into new-age language, the way that many authors (even highly esteemed Tibetan Lamas) often do.

What I found most useful was the step by step walk through of the sadhana practice, and very detailed instructions for the visualization, as that is where I always find this practice a bit overwhelming. As well as giving clear directions, the author also makes beginners feel very comfortable, reminding you again and again that you don't have to visualize everything perfectly at first, and in fact clinging to a desire to perfectly meditate or harboring fear of imperfect visualization in fact defeats the act of meditation and visualization. I already knew that, but it always helps to be reminded of it by a renowned Lama.

I recommend this to anyone interested in Tibetan Buddhism, and it is a must if you are practicing in the kagyu lineage, as I am.

[S.L. Hawke · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a most helpful guided to those beginning practitioners who have had some basic meditation training and are about to receive the Chenrezik empowerment.