Nyingma Tradition — History, Masters & Teachings

Historical background

Nyingma, meaning "the Ancient Ones," is the oldest of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism. It traces its origins to the first wave of Buddhist transmission to Tibet during the 8th century, established by the great tantric master Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche), the abbot Shantarakshita, and the Dharma King Trisong Detsen.

Guru Padmasambhava is revered as a "second Buddha" who subdued the forces hostile to Buddhism and concealed countless spiritual treasures (terma) throughout Tibet, to be revealed by destined masters (tertöns) in future generations when conditions were ripe.

The Nyingma tradition is especially known for its preservation of the Dzogchen (Great Perfection) teachings, considered the most direct path to enlightenment, and for the terma tradition of revealed treasures that keeps the lineage perpetually fresh.

Core Practices

Dzogchen (the Great Perfection), the Nine Yanas (vehicles) system culminating in Atiyoga, terma (treasure) revelations, and extensive deity practices including Vajrakilaya and the Guru Rinpoche cycles.

Key Texts

The Nyingma Gyübum (Collected Tantras of the Ancients), the treasure cycles of the great tertöns, and Longchenpa's Seven Treasuries which systematize the Dzogchen view.

Principal Seats

Mindrolling, Dorje Drak, Shechen, Dzogchen, Kathok, and Palyul — the six "mother" monasteries of the Nyingma tradition.