We cannot immediately grasp the more advanced practices, such as the Great Seal (mahamudra) or the Great Completion (mahasandhi), both of which lead to the result of primordial wisdom. For all of these higher-level practices, we need a steady basis, which is none other than the correct practice of calm abiding. If the untamed mind is filled with concepts and afflictions, these higher practices are not possible. In the beginning, a tree needs strong roots. Similarly, what is most important for meditation is calm abiding.
17th Karmapa
from the book Music In The Sky: The Life, Art, And Teachings Of The 17Th Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje
translated by Michele Martin
Read a random quote or see all quotes by the 17th Karmapa.
Further quotes from the book Music In The Sky:
- The depth of mind free of reference
- The Song of Natural Awareness
- Graduated path
- A Festival of the Field for Gathering Merit
- Pure heart
- Passing the day with a kind-hearted mind
- Letting the Sun Shine
- Taking Our Problems and Sufferings as a Support for Our Practice
- Being of Benefit
- Diverting from our true purpose
- Progressing along our way
- Experiencing mental happiness
- The Mind Is Like Space
- The Peaceful and Calming Victory Flag
- The Remedy Is Meditation
- The Three Kayas
- Remaining in the depths of mind
- Equal nature
- The moon of bliss