Journey of the Mind

More about Journey of the Mind

In "Journey of the Mind: Putting the Teachings on the Bardo into Effective Practice," Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche explores the significance of mental preparation for the experiences of the bardo, the transitional states between death and rebirth in Tibetan Buddhism. He emphasizes the importance of cultivating a positive state of mind during one's life, as this influences the clarity and stability of one's experiences in the bardo. The teachings highlight various meditation practices, including deity visualization and insight meditation, which help practitioners develop mindfulness, alertness, and carefulness, essential qualities for navigating the bardo. Rinpoche explains that understanding the nature of one's mind and the emptiness of appearances can lead to liberation, making it crucial to integrate these insights into daily life and meditation practices. Ultimately, the text serves as a guide for effectively applying these teachings to prepare for the bardo and enhance spiritual growth.
The concept of the bardo in Tibetan Buddhism :
1. Bardo of the Time of Death
This bardo occurs at the moment of death when the physical body begins to dissolve.
It is characterized by the dissolution of the elements (earth, water, fire, air) into one another, leading to a state of luminosity.
Practitioners are encouraged to maintain mindfulness and awareness during this critical time to avoid fear and confusion.
2. Bardo of Dharmata
Following the bardo of death, this state represents the experience of the true nature of reality, often described as emptiness or luminosity.
It is a period where the mind can experience the clear light of awareness, which can lead to liberation if recognized.
The duration of this bardo can vary based on the individual's meditation training and ability to remain undistracted.
3. Bardo of Becoming
This bardo involves the process of rebirth and the experiences leading up to it.
The individual may perceive their previous body and the circumstances of their next birth.
It is essential to cultivate positive states of mind and familiarity with pure appearances to navigate this bardo effectively.
4. Natural Bardo (Between Birth and Death)
This bardo refers to the entire lifespan of an individual, from birth to death.
It emphasizes the importance of living mindfully and preparing for the experiences of the bardos that follow death.
The practices and habits developed during this life significantly influence the experiences in the subsequent bardos.
Each bardo serves as a crucial phase in the cycle of existence, and understanding them can help practitioners prepare for the transitions they will face after death.