At that time of its composition, His Holiness required everyone in the academy to memorize the Nectar Essence of Advice and to internalize its meaning. This encouragement extends beyond fellow practitioners of the academy at that time; anyone inspired by His Holiness’s teachings is invited to memorize the text and apply it in daily life.
Nectar Essence of Advice
Khenpo Sodargye Rinpoche’s teaching on the Nectar Essence of Advice offers a rare opportunity to receive the distilled wisdom of his root guru, His Holiness Jigme Phuntsok Rinpoche. Originally composed in 1989 as a guide mainly for monastics, this text serves as a foundational roadmap for the Dharma path. Khenpo Rinpoche adapts its instructions for modern life, making them accessible for both monastics and lay practitioners seeking genuine wisdom amidst the distractions of the current age.
Comprising just eight verses, this text elucidates the essence of Buddhist practice into three pillars: noble character, pure vows, and unstained wisdom.
- Noble character: pure intentions free from deceit; a kind, committed, and expansive heart; and extensive knowledge.
- Pure vows: steadfast commitment to fundamental precepts across the Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana paths.
- Unstained wisdom: daily engagement with authentic Dharma teachings through hearing, contemplation, and practice.
Khenpo Rinpoche calls these “minimum standards.” They counter complacency and help transform ordinary practitioners into true heirs of the buddhas and cherished companions on the path, opening the way for future activities of spreading the Dharma and benefiting all beings.
His Holiness frequently addressed standards of personal character in the Song of Victory and many other teachings. It is rare to find an eminent master who emphasized character to this degree. Perhaps because His Holiness placed great importance on noble character, and the academy has continued to uphold this value, his disciples generally possess wholesome qualities.
Audio Recording (with simultaneous English translation)
What, then, is this stainless wisdom?
To steep oneself in authentic teachings,
Day after day to hear, contemplate, and practice—
Relying on this, swiftly gain buddhahood.
