Commentary 1.1: Verbal definition of Commitments (dam-tshig, samaya)

[Commentary (556.1-596.4):]

The fourth section (of the extensive exegesis of the means for attaining the maṇḍala of wrathful deities in accordance with the path—see p. 1147) concerns the sequence of commitments maintained by one who is committed. It has three subdivisions, namely, the background motivation, an exegesis of the meaning of its words, and a summary of the chapter.

[The first (comments on Ch. 19.1):]

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[The second includes an overview and an interlinear commentary.]

[Overview of the Commitments (556.3-578.2)]

This has three parts, namely: the nature of commitments which are to be guarded; the distinctions of commitments and vows; and the gathering of the three trainings without contradiction.

[Commitments which are to be Guarded (556.4-573.3):]

There are five aspects—verbal definition, classification, beneficial attributes, retributions exacted (for their violation), and their means of restoration.

[i. As to the verbal definition:]

The (Tibetan) term dam-tshig or "commitment" is explained to derive from the (Sanskrit) samaya. This definition is in three parts, of which the first is that the "commitments" are laid down because benefits are obtained when they are guarded.

It says in the Indestructible Reality (NGB. Vol. 15):

If one who has obtained empowerment and consecration
In the intention of the genuine (or committed) ones
Acts precisely according to the genuine commitments (dam),
Discrepancies will be burnt away (tshig).

The second definition is that "commitments" are so-called because retribution is exacted when they degenerate.

The same text indeed says:

One who swears to maintain the injunctions
And blessings of the genuine (dam) ones
Naturally becomes accomplished.
One who transgresses these commitments (dam)
Is burnt away (tshig), even when belonging to
(The vehicle of) indestructible reality.

The third definition is that "commitments" are so-called because a conventional oath of allegiance is taken.

It says in the Sūtra Requested by Jñānottara (T. 82):

In order that the most secret amazing
Doctrine of the conquerors
Might be firmly held without degeneration,
Pledges of allegiance are steadfastly upheld
In accordance with the teaching given by the Guru.
This is explained to be "commitment".

In brief, "commitment" is so-called because it refers to the virtuous nature of one who perseveres with body, speech and mind not to break the pledges one has undertaken concerning the renunciation of what should be renounced, and the attainment of what should be attained.