To end suffering – not only by relieving its symptoms but by eradicating its root cause – is precisely the aim of the Buddha’s teaching. We must first realize that the true cause of suffering is not outside, but inside. That is why true spiritual practice consists of working on one’s own mind. The mind is very powerful. It can create happiness or suffering, heaven or hell. If, with the help of the Dharma, you manage to eliminate your inner poisons, nothing from outside will ever affect your happiness, but as long as those poisons remain in your mind, you will not find the happiness you seek anywhere in the world.

Nyoshul Khen Rinpoche

from the book On the Path to Enlightenment: Heart Advice from the Great Tibetan Masters

Read a random quote or see all quotes by Nyoshul Khen Rinpoche.

Further quotes from the book On the Path to Enlightenment:

• Just as clouds
• You who have a precious human life
• Clarity and emptiness
• Whatever you do
• Free Perception
• Like gold hidden in its matrix
• Apply yourself unrelentingly to spiritual practice
• Right Time
• The alternation of thoughts
• Trample on anger with realization
• The only way to become buddha
• Only the fool wants more pain
• Cut the knot of greed
• The four boundless qualities
• The ultimate nature of mind
• See the difference
• The enemies dwelling in your mind
• Ever-present Buddha-Nature
• True compassion