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Glossary

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Ignorance

(skt.: avidya, tib.: ma rig pa) Literally, not seeing that which exists, or the way in which things exist. The fundamental delusion from which all others spring. There are basically two kinds, ignorance of karma and ignorance of ultimate truth. It is not mere lack of knowledge, but mistaken perception of the true nature of phenomena. Due to incorrect apprehension we fail to recognize the Ultimate nature of self and phenomena and falsely ascribe them true existence. Ignorance, karma and desire are the three forces that cause reincarnation. Ignorance is also first of the twelve links of dependant arising.

Initiation

(skt.: abhisheka; tib.: wang) Wang, usually translated as empowerment, is a complex tantric ritual based on a mandala of a deity which confers the power and ability to engage in certain meditative practices for achieving enlightenment, and thus becoming a Buddha, in order to benefit others as fully as possible. An empowerment also plants new seeds, or potentials.

Introspection

(skt.: samprajanya, tib.: she shin) Sometimes also translated as vigilance, watchfulness, awareness, alertness, attentivness... It is a mental factor, which functions like a mental alarm which warns when you lose your object of mindfulness or concentration. 

Language

Words of Wisdom

"There is no evil similar to anger and no discipline like patience, strive always therefore for tolerance, cultivating it in varied ways."
- Shantideva

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