☸ Tibetan Buddhist Glossary

In Tibetan Buddhism, a chakra is a subtle energy center in the body, which is believed to play a crucial role in the development of spiritual awareness and enlightenment. There are seven main chakras, each associated with a particular aspect of consciousness, such as wisdom, compassion, or creativity. The chakras are often visualized and worked with in meditation and yoga practices to balance and harmonize the energies of the body and mind. This helps to cultivate a state of inner peace, clarity, and spiritual awareness.

Chenrezig, also known as Avalokiteshvara, is a bodhisattva who embodies the compassion and wisdom of all the Buddhas. He is often depicted with a thousand arms and eyes, symbolizing his ability to see and help all sentient beings. Chenrezig is considered a powerful symbol of compassion and is often invoked in Tibetan Buddhist practice to cultivate loving-kindness and wisdom. He is particularly important in the Kagyu and Nyingma traditions, where he is considered a central figure in the practice of compassion and wisdom.

Chod, also known as 'cutting through', is a Tibetan Buddhist practice that aims to cut through ego-clinging and emotional afflictions. It involves visualization, meditation, and ritual activities to overcome negative patterns and cultivate compassion and wisdom. Chod practice is often performed in charnel grounds or other places associated with death and impermanence, to confront and overcome fear and attachment. This practice is considered advanced and typically requires guidance from a qualified teacher.

Compassion, or 'loving-kindness', is a central virtue in Tibetan Buddhism, involving the cultivation of empathy and concern for the well-being of all sentient beings. It is considered essential for spiritual growth and is often developed through meditation practices such as metta and tonglen. Compassion is not limited to emotional response, but is a deliberate practice of wishing happiness and freedom from suffering for all beings, including oneself. By cultivating compassion, practitioners aim to overcome self-centeredness and develop a sense of interconnectedness with all living beings.