In winter of 2024 during the New Year of the Tibetan lunar calendar, known as Losar, Samye New York hosted an immersive retreat on the Four Foundations of the Dharma. According to tradition, the actions carried out during these first days of the year are believed to carry a potency magnified a millionfold.

Guided by Tulku Migmar Tsering and instructor Matthew Zalichin, we explored the Four Foundations, also referred to as the “preliminary practices” or ngondro in Tibetan. These encompass the taking of refuge and cultivating bodhicitta, engaging in confession and purification practices, making mandala offerings, and delving into the profound practice of guru yoga, as outlined in the Guru’s Heart Practice that Dispels All Obstacles (Tukdrup Barché Kunsel) of the Chokling Tersar tradition. While these practices are indispensable for progressing along the Vajrayana path, they simultaneously form the bedrock of anyone’s Dharma path.

During this retreat, Rinpoche gave oral transmission for the concise version of this practice, but for those watching the recording, one should seek out a live transmission from a qualified teacher. Phakchok Rinpoche often gives this on request, please check his calendar for upcoming events: https://www.samyeinstitute.org/events/category/phakchok-rinpoche/Phakchok

This showcase includes seventeen recordings, with teachings and practice sessions led by Tulku Migmar. Recordings run from one to one and half hours in length.

Originally held from February 9 – 14, 2024 at Samye Hermitage New York, these classes are now available as recordings from our archive. Access is offered on a donation basis, with the intention that a wide community of practitioners may benefit. Once registered, you will receive a link and password to the Vimeo showcase.