Introduction to the Vajrayana – Who is Guru Rinpoche?
Level: Intermediate
Many practitioners today feel familiar with meditation, mindfulness, and the foundational teachings of Buddhism.
Yet when encountering Vajrayana — with its symbolism, mantra recitation, visualisation, and devotion — it can suddenly feel unfamiliar or even puzzling.
Who is Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava)?
Was he a historical master, a symbolic figure, or an embodiment of something deeper?
And what does it truly mean to practice in this way?
This seminar offers an accessible introduction to the foundations of Vajrayana Buddhism, especially for those who already have some grounding in Buddhist practice and would like to better understand this transformative path.
Together we will explore:
- The life and significance of Guru Rinpoche
- The roots and main elements of Vajrayana Buddhism
- The meaning of deity practice and visualisation
- The role of the guru principle
- How these methods relate to our own mind and everyday experience
Rather than requiring blind faith, Vajrayana invites us to explore a shift in perception — a way of seeing that gradually transforms how we experience ourselves and the world.
Throughout the seminar, we will also put these teachings directly into practice by engaging in the Concise Daily Guru Rinpoche practice together, allowing space to experience and reflect on the method in a grounded and guided way.
This seminar offers both understanding and direct experience — a supportive entry point into Vajrayana practice.
Scheduel
The seminar starts on Friday at 16:00 and ends on Sunday at 12:00.
You will be accommodated in comfortable single rooms or, on request, in double rooms.
In addition to the meditation sessions and courses, there will be plenty of time to enjoy the nature around Gomde, take walks, and relax.
Recommended donation
€ 240 for seminar, full board and accommodation.
It is important to us that everyone who is interested can take part in our seminars. The amount stated is a guideline and covers the fixed costs in Gomde.
If you have the opportunity to give more, you are supporting people with a lower income.
If you are unable to donate the full amount, please contact nanda@gomde.eu in advance – we will find a solution together.
Level: Intermediate
LAMA THIERRY
Lama Thierry is a Swiss “Yogi” who, after twelve years as a Buddhist monk – including six years in a retreat – now helps and teaches at our center.