The three vehicles of Buddhist practice (Bibliotheca Indo-Buddhica series)

Book Details:

• Publisher: Sri Satguru Publications

• Author: Ken Holmes (based on teachings by Khenpo Thrangu Rinpoche)

• Language: English

• Edition: 1995

• ISBN: 9788170304579

• Pages: 123

• Cover: Hardcover

• Dimensions: 23 cm x 15 cm

• Weight: 284 gm

About the Book:

The Three Vehicles of Buddhist Practice by Khenpo Thrangu Rinpoche offers an insightful exploration of the three primary paths in Buddhist practice: Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana. This book, based on the teachings given by Thrangu Rinpoche during his visits to the West, provides readers with a clear understanding of the progression through these vehicles and how they complement one another.

In the first part of the book, Thrangu Rinpoche takes the reader through the Theravada path, providing a detailed explanation of the Four Noble Truths and the meditation methods inherent in this level of practice. The second part introduces the Bodhisattva path, explaining the vow of practitioners to achieve enlightenment for the benefit of all beings, including an accessible explanation of the concepts of emptiness and non-self. Lastly, the book covers the Vajrayana path, the most advanced level of Buddhist practice, which is often misunderstood. Rinpoche, as an experienced Vajrayana practitioner, offers practical insights into this complex form of Buddhist practice.

The book emphasizes that none of these three vehicles is superior to the others. Rather, they represent different approaches to practicing Buddhist Dharma, each suited to an individual's needs, inclinations, and capabilities. Rinpoche’s teachings are presented with clarity and depth, making this book an invaluable resource for both beginners and those seeking to deepen their understanding of Buddhist philosophy and practice.

About the Author:

Khenpo Thrangu Rinpoche, born in 1933 in Kham, is one of the foremost Buddhist teachers in the Kagyu lineage. Recognized as the incarnation of the great Thrangu Tulku, he was trained under prominent Tibetan scholars and has played a key role in the preservation and transmission of Tibetan Buddhism, both in Tibet and around the world. A Geshe Rabjam (a highly respected Buddhist scholar), Thrangu Rinpoche has taught in various countries and is known for his ability to make complex Buddhist teachings accessible to both new and advanced students. He currently serves as the abbot of Gampo Abbey in Canada and Thrangu House in the UK.