Karma, Reincarnation, and Cultivating Bodhicitta

A Journey to the West L28

A Journey to the West: Episode 28 — Karma, Reincarnation, and Cultivating Bodhicitta

In this profound episode, Khenpo Sodargye continues His Holiness's teachings on karmic cause and result and the evidence of reincarnation through the Karmapa lineage. He shares a precious personal memory of encountering the young seventeenth Karmapa at Samye Chimpu and receiving his blessing. The teaching then delves into Mahayana bodhicitta practice—how to cultivate an altruistic mind even toward those who harm us, following Milarepa's example of compassion toward his enemies.

💬 Words of Wisdom

"The view concerning reincarnation, karmic cause and result, involves knowing the fundamental teachings in Buddhism that can never be neglected or forsaken." — His Holiness's teaching "Anyone who directly points out my faults should be respected as a spiritual guide!" — On transforming criticism into practice "Even if someone beats you or beheads you without reason, you do not hate him; rather, you wish this person to attain happiness and be free from suffering." — On bodhicitta practice "After Milarepa aroused genuine bodhicitta, he showed great compassion to his relatives who used to treat him like enemies, and eventually guided them onto the noble path." — Milarepa's example A teaching on transforming adversity into the path of awakening — may all beings develop the precious bodhicitta that cherishes others above oneself.