MO Curriculum
Phase 1: Revealing the Nature of Mind
Important Points
Introduce practitioners to the nature of mind (rang zhin/svabhavana) as awareness, the inherent Buddha nature present in all experiences.
Practices & Approaches
Pointing Out Instructions: Utilize direct methods to help practitioners recognize their innate awareness, involving 1-1 dialog and guided meditations on effortless abiding.
Short Sits: Introduce brief meditation sessions focusing on effortless abiding, where practitioners rest in awareness without striving for specific experiences. Getting adjusted to 'non-doing' and releasing into presence.
Inquiry Discussions: Facilitate discussions to explore insights or doubts about the nature of mind.
Introduction to the Four Samayas
Recommended Readings
- "Pointing Out the Nature of Mind" by Khenpo Dongyal Rinpoche (OP. The revised edition is The Nature of Mind: The Dzogchen Instructions of Aro Yeshe Jungne which I own.)
- "The Precious Treasury of the Way of Abiding" by Longchenpa
- "Kunjed Gyalpo"
Phase 2: Familiarizing with the View and Effortlessness
Important Points
Deepen familiarity with the nature of mind and integrate various experiences into pure presence.
Practices & Approaches
3 Modes of Liberation: Old friend, snake, thief.
4 Chokshyaks: Fourfold framework for releasing attachments.
Tilopa Six Words of Advice: Practical guidance for staying in the natural state.
Garab Dorje's 3 Statements: Key Dzogchen teachings to facilitate recognition and liberation.
Effortless Abiding: Continued practice of sitting meditation (stillness/movement/awareness).
Integration Exercises: Engage in mindfulness practices throughout daily activities.
Expanded Inquiry Discussions: Explore sustaining recognition in challenging moments using techniques like 'aware of awareness' and 'looking back at the one who's thinking'.
Recommended Readings
- "Pointing Out the Nature of Mind" by Khenpo Dongyal Rinpoche
- "The Precious Treasury of the Way of Abiding" by Longchenpa
- "Buddhahood Without Meditation" by Dudjom Lingpa
- "Kunjed Gyalpo"
Phase 3: Pure Effortlessness
Important Points
A state of complete ease, allowing awareness to remain prominent.
Practices & Approaches
Garab Dorje's 3 Statements
3rd Mode of Liberation: Thief
4 Chokshyaks
Non-meditation: Resting in the natural state
Resting in Presence: Encourage simple presence to all that arises.
Reflective Inquiry: Facilitate reflections on the experience of letting be.
Recommended Readings
"The Precious Treasury of the Way of Abiding" by Longchenpa
"The Precious Treasury of the Basic Space of Phenomena" by Longchenpa
Phase 4: Complete Liberation
Important Points
Total release from fixation, allowing for pure presence and the dissolution of the conditioned self.
Practices & Approaches
- Deep Release Meditation: Relaxed non-attachment and pure presence.
- Living in Liberation: Liberation in daily life.
- Integration of All Experiences: Discussions around integrating joyful and challenging experiences. Normalizing liberation.
Final Reflection
At the conclusion, we hold a space for practitioners to reflect on their journey. Encourage sharing experiences related to the four samayas and understanding the nature of mind. We foster a community environment for ongoing support in practices beyond the group.
This overview is designed to be accessible and comprehensive, allowing practitioners to explore the profound teachings of the Dzogchen tradition while integrating practices into their everyday lives.