Stages of Learning: Understanding the meaning of spiritual paths

An introduction to Lamrim, known as The Stages of the Path to Enlightenment, is the backbone of Kadampa Buddhism. Lamrim is a special set of instructions that includes all the essential teachings of Buddha Shakyamuni compiled by the great Indian Buddhist Master Atisha.

If we gain deep experience of Lamrim there will be no basis for problems. First we must understand the value of Lamrim. Then by joyfully and patiently doing the meditations we shall gradually experience the fruits of Lamrim practice. Eventually we shall attain freedom from all suffering and the unchanging peace and happiness of enlightenment.

There are 21 Lamrim meditations, which are usually practiced in a three-week cycle as a daily meditation practice:

1. Our precious human life

2. Death and impermanence

3. The danger of lower rebirth

4. Refuge practice

5. Actions and their effects

6. Developing renunciation for samsara

7. Developing equanimity

8. Recognizing that all living beings are our mothers

9. Remembering the kindness of living beings

10. Equalizing self and others

11. The disadvantages of self-cherishing

12. The advantages of cherishing others

13. Exchanging self with others

14. Great compassion

15. Taking

16. Wishing love

17. Giving

18. Bodhichitta

19. Tranquil abiding

20. Superior seeing

21. Relying upon a Spiritual Guide

These meditations, along with instructions on how to practice them and essential background material, can be found in The New Meditation Handbook. An extensive presentation of Lamrim can be found in Geshe Kelsang’s book Joyful Path of Good Fortune.