The Heart of Compassion

The Thirty-Seven Verses on the Practice of a Bodhisattva

By: Dilgo Khyentse, Padmakara Translation Group

Narrated by: John Telfer

A Tibetan Buddhist master shares his commentary on Santideva's Way of the Bodhisattva, illuminating the path to enlightenment and the meaning of true compassion

What would be the practical implications of caring more about others than about yourself? This is the radical theme of this extraordinary set of instructions, a training manual composed in the fourteenth century by the Buddhist hermit Ngulchu Thogme, here explained in detail by one of the great Tibetan Buddhist masters of the twentieth century, Dilgo Khyentse.

In the Mahayana tradition, those who have the courage to undertake the profound change of attitude required to develop true compassion are called bodhisattvas. Their great resolve—to consider others’ needs as paramount, and thus to attain enlightenment for the sake of all living creatures—carries them beyond the limits imposed by the illusions of “I” and “mine,” culminating in the direct realization of reality, transcending dualistic notions of self and other.

This classic text presents ways that we can work with our own hearts and minds, starting wherever we find ourselves now, to unravel our small-minded preoccupations and discover our own potential for compassion, love, and wisdom. Many generations of Buddhist practitioners have been inspired by these teachings, and the great masters of all traditions have written numerous commentaries. Dilgo Khyentse’s commentary is probably his most extensive recorded teaching on Mahayana practice.

©2007 Shechen Publications (P)2019 Shambhala Publications

Transformational

Very simple yet very deep instructions to be listened to, for reflection, and meditated on for a life time.

So deep

Very rare to find a true spiritual book. Especially when there are so many. But this one is special. I met the Dalai Lama once. In fact Tibetan Buddhism is what saved my life and my best friend’s life. I thank the universe for these books and the great teachers who spent eons eliminating the misery of the world.

Wonderful book

Masterful teaching and beautiful book. Highly recommend this to anyone on a spiritual path. Enjoy!

Namaste

Absolutely beautiful book from beginning to the end . Heard it 3x and bought 2 physical copies one for myself the other to share. Thank you!
Namaste

Amazing

Such a valuable and fantastic book full of wisdom and straight talk from a genuine realized master. Narration also top notch. Amazing.