A lay lama and guru of both Lama Yeshe and Lama Zopa Rinpoche. Gomo Rinpoche taught at many FPMT centers, especially in Italy. He passed away in 1985 and reincarnated in Canada.

Usually refers to the main meditation hall, or temple, within a monastery.

A presentation of Shakyamuni Buddha’s teachings in a form suitable for the step-by-step training of a disciple. The lamrim was first formulated by the great Indian teacher Atisha when he came to Tibet in 1042. See also three principal aspects of the path.

The three levels of practice of the lower, middle and higher capable being, based on the motivations of trying to attain a better future rebirth, liberation or enlightenment. Also known as the three scopes.

See Vaibhashika.

A synonym for enlightenment.

See Lamrim Chenmo.

See Mahayana.

Various advanced mental states that are achieved through meditation and practice. The mark of entry onto the five paths of both the Hinayana and Mahayana is effortless renunciation, whereas the specific mark of entry onto the five Mahayana paths is effortless bodhicitta. Of these five paths, the third and fourth are further subdivided into the ten bodhisattva grounds or stages, achieved through a more profound meditative insight into emptiness. The fifth Mahayana path is the omniscient mind of a buddha. 

Male meditational deity from the father class of Highest Yoga Tantra; a manifestation of the Buddha Akshobhya.

The inspirational text written by the eighth-century Indian master, Shantideva.

See Madhyamakavatara.