Verse 8 says, “The suffering in the lower realms is extremely hard to endure. The sage says it is the result of destructive actions. For that reason, even if your life is at risk, Don’t engage in destructive actions- this is the practice of a bodhisattva.”…
Where do you take refuge? Verse 7 of the 37 verses says, Locked up in the prison of their own patterning Ordinary gods cannot protect anyone. Where, then, do you go for refuge? Take refuge in what is reliable, the Three Jewels- this is the practice…
Verse 6 tells us to cherish our teachers. It reads, With some teachers, your shortcomings fade away and Abilities grow like the waxing moon. Hold such teachers dear to you, Dearer than your own body- this is the practice of a bodhisattva It’s so important to…
Verse 5 of the 37 verses tells it to us straight: give up bad friends. It says, With some friends, the three poisons keep growing, Study, reflection, and meditation weaken While loving-kindness and compassion fall away. Give up bad friends- this is the practice of a…
The heart of verse four’s message is: ponder impermanence. The verse reads, Close friends who have long been together will separate, Wealth and possessions gained with much effort will be left behind, Consciousness, a guest, will leave the hotel of the body- To give up the…
The third verse says, Don’t engage disturbances, and emotional reactions gradually fade away; Don’t engage distractions, and spiritual practice naturally grows; Keep awareness clear and vivid, and confidence in the way arises. Rely on silence- this is the practice of a bodhisattva. I love how clear…
The three poisons are the focus of verse 2 on the practice of a bodhisattva. Here’s Ken McLeod‘s translation: Attraction to those close to you catches you in its currents; Aversion to those who oppose you burns inside; Indifference that ignores what needs to be done…
It’s been quite a long time since I’ve posted a bit of ninja wisdom but something remarkable happened recently. It reminded me- and taught me- the true power of perseverance. The oldest student at my Taekwondo dojang is Master Jerry. Master Jerry just celebrated his 91st…
The first verse in the 37 Verses says: Right now you have a good boat, fully equipped and available- hard to find. To free yourself and others from the sea of samsara, Day and night, constantly, Study, reflect, and meditate- this is the practice of a…
The opening verses of the 37 Verses on the Practice of a Bodhisattva serve to pay homage and set the intention. It reads, I pay constant homage through my three doors,To my supreme teacher and protector Chenrezig,Who while seeing all phenomena lack coming and going,Makes single-minded…
