Gampopa’s The Precious Garland of the Supreme Path, led by Ven. Geshe Lhakdor

Nyammed Dvagpo Lhaje or Gampopa was someone prophesied by the Buddha
and is the crown jewel of all the Kagyudpas. Out of the many teachings that he
has given, this teaching titled Precious Garland of Supreme Path is an
amalgamation of Kadampa and Mahamudra in one text. Dvagpo Rinpoche
possessed all the pith instructions of Kadampa. He also possessed the pith
instructions of Mahamudra coming from Naropa and Maitrepa, Marpa and Mila
Repa. He himself professes that he is the holder of the treasure of pith
instructions of Kadamapa and Mahamudra. The lineage that came from him is
hence known as the confluence of the water of Kadampa and Mahamudra. This
text is a result of his continuous recollection of the contents of these two
lineages through listening, contemplation and meditation and is something that
is there fully present in his mind. Hence, he instructs his present and future
fortunate disciples who have strong faith in him to study this text and says that
he has nothing special to teach than what is found in this text even if someday is
to meet him personally. This highly cherished pith instruction contains the path
of the three individuals in general and specially the supreme tantric practices.
Hence the word ‘Supreme Path’ in the title. This supreme path is like a precious
garland or garland of gems. A garland of gems is exquisite to look at and if used
one’s poverty can be eliminated. Similarly the words used in this text are
beautiful and the contents possess great meaning.

Ven. Geshe Lhakdor has served His Holiness the Dalai Lama as his translator and religious assistant since 1989. In this capacity, he has accompanied His Holiness to many important conferences and forums throughout the world. He has translated numerous books by His Holiness from English to Tibetan and from Tibetan to English. Geshe Lhakdor is a trustee of the Foundation for Universal Responsibility, established by His Holiness. He is also the Director of the Central Archive of His Holiness, a member of the Advisory Board of the Institute of Tibetan Classics in Montreal, Canada, and an Honorary Professor at the University of British Columbia, Canada. He is now the Director of the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives and head of the Science Education Project.