Ringu Tulku Rinpoche
Teachings on Bodhicharyavatara
Session 1
Chapter 7: Diligence
Stanzas 1-2
Here Rinpoche first invokes the blessings of the master and teachers, before introducing Diligence, which translates as joyful action or effort and is the topic of Chapter 7 in the Bodhicharyavatara.
He then briefly summarises the previous chapter on Patience which is the underlying practice through which diligence arises. Rinpoche gives insight into the true meaning of Diligence as it is understood in Buddhism: here is perseverance, a light touch, joy, enthusiasm, it flows easily from a wish to become enlightened and is a training discovered through practising patience, without harshness but with a continuing letting go of the negative mind-states and activities that impede progress on our path. When we are engaged in our practice with diligence, we engage with the same mind-set that we bring to any activity we are passionate about; it is a tireless training in recognising and letting go what is not useful or of benefit. However, if practiced without a joyful mind, he says, it is not true diligence.
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