Atisha 19th c., detail. © Himalayan Art Collection

Curriculum for Buddhist Practice

Compiled by Shamar Rinpoche

This curriculum of study and practice is taught in all Bodhi Path centers and should be undertaken with the guidance of a qualified teacher. Note that some practices require prerequisite training and experience.

You should follow each practice with the Wishing Prayer of the Arya Samantabhadra.

Foundation Practices for all Bodhi Path Practitioners:

  1. Refuge vow
  2. Bodhisattva vow
  3. Shamatha (shi'nay) meditation
  4. 35 Buddhas practice
  5. 7 Points of Mind-Training
  6. Vajrasattva (Dorje Sempa) practice

Main Practices to be specially chosen for each individual with the help of the root master:

  1. Practice of Avalokiteshvara (Chenrezig)
  2. Practice of Buddha Amitabha
    Requires lineage transmission for initiation.
  3. Karma Kagyu Mahamudra practice
    Lineage Practice.
  4. Kagyu Mahamudra
    The Stages of Practice in relation to the Blessing received from the Short Supplication to Vajradhara and the Lineage Holders. Lineage Practice.
  5. Highest Practice for Enlightenment
    Lineage Practice.