'Garab Dorje' (;
Sanskrit: 'Prahevajra') was the semi-historical first human teacher of the
Dzogchen or Great Perfection teachings according to
Tibetan Buddhist tradition.
Prior to Garab Dorje, the Dzogchen teachings had been expounded only in celestial realms of the Buddhas and
Devas.
Born in the land of
Uddiyana, also the birthplace of
Padmasambhava, Garab Dorje is said to have received all the
Tantras, scriptures and oral instructions of Dzogchen directly from
Vajrasattva and
Vajrapani.
Garab Dorje transmitted the teachings to
Manjushrimitra, who was regarded as his chief disciple. Padmasambhava is also known to have received the transmission of the Dzogchen tantras directly from Garab Dorje.
Testament of Garab Dorje
Upon his death, Garab Dorje imparted his last testament to Manjushrimitra. These three precepts, known as the "Three Words that Strike to the Heart of the Essential Point" summarize the whole of the Dzogchen teachings:
★ One is introduced directly to one's true nature
★ One attains certainty about this natural state
★ One continues with confidence in liberation
See also
★
Atiyoga
★
Vimalamitra
References
★
Reynolds, John Myrdhin; Ithaca NY 1996; Snow Lion; 'The Golden Letters' ISBN 978-1-55939-050-7