Ngöndro (preliminary practices)

The Tibetan word ngöndro literally means "that which goes before". It is the practice with which almost everyone in Tibetan Buddhism begins the path, and to which even great masters return throughout their lives. Whoever practises the Ngöndro sincerely lays more than a foundation: everything that comes later on the path, from meditation to Dzogchen, is already present within it in essence.

What does the Ngöndro consist of?

The Ngöndro has two parts. The common preliminaries are four contemplations that turn the mind towards the Dharma: the precious human life, impermanence, karma, and the suffering of samsara. They are not gloomy thoughts, but an honest look at our existence that awakens the motivation to truly practise.

The uncommon preliminaries are five practices, each engaging body, speech and mind:

1. Taking refuge with prostrations: entering the path
2. Bodhicitta: arousing the mind of enlightenment for all beings
3. Vajrasattva: purification through the hundred-syllable mantra
4. Mandala offering: gathering merit and wisdom
5. Guru yoga: receiving the blessing of the lineage

Traditionally, each practice is repeated 100,000 times. That sounds daunting, but it is not about the counting: every repetition refines the motivation, purifies habitual patterns and opens the heart a little further.

The Düdjom Tersar Ngöndro

Within our community we practise the Ngöndro of the Düdjom Tersar lineage, transmitted by H.H. Dudjom Rinpoche. This Ngöndro is known for its clear, direct style: concise enough for daily practice, and yet complete. Nothing is missing from it.

To gain a clear understanding of the Vajrayana teachings, one is strongly advised to begin with the Ngöndro. It is the most powerful way to accumulate merit and wisdom, and forms the gateway to all further practice in our tradition.

At Rigdzin Dzogchen Ling we gather every Saturday to study and practise the Düdjom Tersar Ngöndro. Beginners are warmly welcome.