Introduction

The root text, Essence of the Mahayana Teachings, that forms the basis for this commentary holds the distilled nectar, or heart essence, of all the teachings of profound truth found throughout the Three Baskets and four classes of tantra of the Buddha's teachings. This text is one of two exceptional works produced by the illustrious master, Kyobpa Jigten Sumgon. The first work is the Gong Chik, or Singular Wisdom-Mind. The Gong Chik was written primarily as a scholarly work for Dharma students who are focused on listening to teachings and contemplating their meaning. This other exceptional work, referred to by the abbreviated name of Ten Nying (Teachings' Essence), was written by Jigten Sumgon primarily for practitioners who are engaged in practice.

His Eminence Garchen Rinpoche instructed me to write a commentary based on the Ten Nying that would offer a comprehensive synopsis of all the essential points covered in the root text. In accordance with Rinpoche's instructions, I began to consult numerous commentaries, of various lengths ranging from extensive to concise, composed by countless knowledgeable and realized masters. I have relied primarily on the explanations found in omniscient Drigung master Chokyi Drakpa's commentary Instructions on Jigten Sumgon's "Essence of the Mahayana Teachings": A Beautiful Ornament of a Wish- Fulfilling Jewel Garland to compile my understanding of the essential points. I wrote this in an easy-to-follow format for the sake of some Western students with interest in the Buddha Dharma, and my aspiration is that this text will become a source of benefit, perhaps even serving as the basis for future teachings, and that it will serve as a support for practice and meditation.

I would like to thank the translator, Vanessa Kubota, who translated it into English from the original Tibetan, and the editor Kay Candler, copy editor Hang Tam, cover design Mia Milk, page layout Mark Riege, as well as Debbie Jackson, who has compiled and produced it. Thank you all for your help and contributions to this project.