My dear friends,
The "Eight Verses for Training the Mind," composed by Geshe Langri Tangpa, is a seminal text within the Tibetan Buddhist lojong, or mind training, tradition. These verses distill the essence of the Bodhisattva's path, emphasizing the cultivation of compassion, humility, and wisdom in every aspect of life. They serve as a practical guide for transforming everyday challenges into opportunities for spiritual growth. Geshe Chekawa, a key figure in the lojong tradition, was profoundly influenced by this text. He not only practiced these teachings diligently but also systematized and expanded upon them, ensuring their enduring impact on future generations of practitioners. The "Eight Verses" remain a cornerstone of lojong practice, revered for their profound simplicity and the transformative power they hold when sincerely integrated into one's life.
With the thought of attaining enlightenment
For the benefit of all sentient beings
Who are more precious than wish-fulfilling gems
I will constantly practice holding them dear.
(2)
Whenever I am with others
I will practice regarding myself as least of all
And from the very depths of my heart
I will regard others as supreme.
(3)
In all activities I will observe my mind
And the moment a delusion arises
Endangering myself and others
I will firmly confront and avert it.
(4)
Whenever I meet a person of bad nature
Who is overwhelmed by negative energy and intense suffering
I will hold such a rare one dear
As if I had found a precious treasure.
(5)
When others, out of jealousy,
Mistreat me with abuse, slander and scorn,
I will practice accepting defeat
And offering the victory to them.
(6)
When one whom I have benefited
And in whom I have placed great hopes
Mistreats me very badly
I will practice regarding that person as my supreme lama.
(7)
In short, I will offer, directly and indirectly, every benefit and happiness
To all sentient beings, just my mothers.
I will practice in secret taking upon myself
All of their negative actions and suffering.
(8)
By regarding all phenomena as illusory
I will keep these practices undefiled
By the stains of the eight worldly concerns;
And, free from clinging,
I will liberate all beings from bondage
To the unsubdued mind and its karma.
- Geshe Langri Tangpa (1054–1123)