Milarepa, Tibet's greatest saint, had two major disciples: Gampopa, who established the monastic foundation of the Kagyu lineage, and Rechungpa, who traveled to India and brought back profound teachings which were absorbed into several lineages.

Rechungpa's biography stands out because of the unorthodox unfolding of his realization. His pride and arrogance caused him to go against Milarepa's advice three times, putting his practice at risk. Even with this obstacle, Rechungpa's undying devotion to Milarepa served as the cause for his enlightenment, as evidenced by Rechungpa's achievement of rainbow body at his death.

"At this time, as the precious teachings of the incomparable Buddha spread throughout the world, the numbers of the faithful grow daily. These various people want to know of the great learned and accomplished holy beings that arose impartially in the past...With these needs and aspirations in mind, Namo Buddha Publications and Kamtsang Sherab Choling have collaborated to translate and publish this essential summary of the activities of Jetsun Rechung Dorje Drakpa. I rejoice in their efforts in this virtuous activity for which they have the highest altruistic intentions."--The 17th Gyalwa Karmapa

In this book, Rinpoche discusses the four common foundations, which are the four thoughts to contemplate before beginning a spiritual practice.

The first foundation, precious human birth, explains in detail why practice is important. The second foundation, impermanence, teaches us to find something meaningful in life.

The most difficult to understand foundation, karma, is lucidly explained by Thrangu Rinpoche. Because of karma, we can determine if we will have a fortunate or unfortunate future. Then, after we have practiced, we must return to conventional reality (samsara) and so the fourth reminder is a review of the characteristics of samsara.

This book also includes Khenpo Karpo's excellent survey of the points of meditation and practice to round out the four foundations.

This e-book is in the Kindle format (mobi) and can be read on many ebook readers.

The paperback book is available on the Book section of this website.