Teachings with Tengyur Rinpoche

What is Enlightenment and Why is it Possible?

Morning Teaching: 10:30am-12:30pm EST

Is enlightenment, or the state of Buddhahood, an unreachable ideal or a practical goal for everyday individuals? The Buddha’s teachings on wisdom and compassion suggest that enlightenment is within everyone’s reach, not a distant fantasy. But how can a modern person with a busy life find a way to pursue this path? According to the Buddha’s teaching on the Four Noble Truths, enlightenment is achievable for all, yet it cannot be granted by anyone else—not even the Buddha himself. It requires each individual to follow the path he laid out.

In this talk, Tengyur Rinpoche will explore the concept of enlightenment through the lens of the Eightfold Path, discussing its qualities, benefits, and practical applications. With his extensive experience as a Geshe Lharampa from Sera Jey Monastic University, his role as a junior English translator for His Holiness, and his training at Harvard in religious studies, Rinpoche will present these teachings in a practical way, making them accessible and relevant to our daily lives.

Human Potential and the Mind in Buddhist Psychology

Afternoon Teaching: 2:30-4:30pm EST

Human potential is often seen as the driving force that inspires us to grow, change, and strive for a better life. While science attributes this potential to human nature and biological factors, Buddhist teachings, particularly in the Mahayana sutras, refer to it as Tathāgatagarbha—the innate seed or potential for enlightenment present in every being. This fundamental hope empowers us to transform our lives and realize our fullest capabilities.

To truly understand this potential, we must delve into the nature of the mind itself. Buddhist psychology offers a rich analysis of the mind, tracing its development from the Buddha’s earliest teachings through to the philosophical traditions of the Abhidharma and the later Mahāyāna texts. By exploring these teachings, we learn how to cultivate a positive mind, reduce negative mental states, and lead a more fulfilled life.

Drawing on his 24 years of extensive studies of Buddhist philosophy and his training at Harvard, Rinpoche will guide this exploration, offering practical insights and techniques to help individuals harness their potential and navigate the complexities of modern life.