There is so much benefit in requesting teachings, especially if you supplicate not just for your own benefit. If you request teachings with a motivation triggered by renunciation and compassion (bodhichitta) — if you are requesting the teachings to benefit all beings — this is the supreme way to request.

But if the guru is a proper, brave, qualified master, he might not give the teaching even if he seemingly has all the knowledge, time, and place to give it.

I requested specific tantric teachings from Kyabje Dejung Rinpoche many times over the course of two years. Finally, one day in Nepal, instead of sending me away, he told me to wait. He appeared to go through the hassle of searching his suitcases and summoning his attendants to search for his almanac. I think I had to wait an hour. He didn’t answer my questions—he didn’t even look in my direction as he was reading the almanac and making notes. Finally he said, “Good. This is the seventh time you asked, so I will teach you.”

Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche

from the book The Guru Drinks Bourbon?

Read a random quote or see all quotes by Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche.

Further quotes from the book The Guru Drinks Bourbon?:

• Dismantling the puzzle of dualism
• The Worst Forms of Abuse Award
• No one can please everyone
• The moment there is devotion
• Beginning to subdue and outshine appearance and existence
• The quest for a guru
• Spiritual wealth
• Your decision is now taking the lead
• Good gurus are on the verge of extinction
• Devotion is supreme
• Abundance and variety in the teachings is so important
• Open-minded guru
• Outer display of guru devotion
• The very essence of the Spiritual journey
• Seeing a student’s potential
• Check how the guru handles criticism
• Cultivating trust in simplicity
• Practicing Dharma requires sacrifice
• Gurus Don’t Fish for Devotion
• Advice on selecting a guru