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The Home of Tibetan Buddhist Texts in Translation
ISSN 2753-4812
ISSN 2753-4812

Aspiration Prayers

Aspiration Prayers

English (120) | Deutsch (25) | Español (32) | Français (49) | Português (12) | Italiano (9) | Nederlands (4) | 中文 (14) | བོད་ཡིག (120)

Sentient beings are as limitless as the whole of space:

May each effortlessly realize the three kāyas,

And may every single being of all the six realms, who has each been in one life or another my father or mother,

Attain all together the ground of primordial perfection.

A series of prayers of aspiration (Skt. praṇidhāna; Tib. smon lam) and works from related genres, including prayers for the spread of the teachings (bstan rgyas smon lam):

Bardos
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
An aspiration to recognise the true nature of each stage of the bardo experience, from the moment of death and accompanying stages of dissolution through to the bardo of becoming, and thereby attain awakening.
Dying & the Bardos 17 Sep 2020
by Jigme Lingpa
An aspiration prayer to recognize the various phases of the four intermediate states, or bardos—the natural bardo of this life, the bardo of dying, the bardo of dharmatā, and the bardo of becoming—and apply the techniques and practices that will bring about realization.
Dying & the Bardos Longchen Nyingtik 24 Jul 2021

Bodhisattva Aspirations
from the Words of the Buddha
This aspiration to accomplish the eleven transcendent perfections—generosity, ethical discipline, patience, diligence, meditative concentration, insight, skilful methods, strength, aspiration, primordial wisdom and the dharmakāya—is popular in the Sakya tradition, and is included within the Compendium of Sādhanas.
Six Pāramitās Compendium of Sādhanas 24 Nov 2022
from the Words of the Buddha
In the sūtra The Question of Maitreya (Toh. 85, Maitreya­paripṛcchā, byams pas zhus pa), Buddha Śākyamuni recounts this prayer that Maitreya made as a bodhisattva aspiring to accomplish the six perfections and attain the ten bodhisattva levels. The prayer is also included in the Miscellaneous section of the Tengyur (Toh 4378).
Kangyur Tengyur Six Pāramitās Compendium of Sādhanas Nyingma Mönlam 30 Jan 2021
by Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche
This prayer of aspiration for training the mind in bodhicitta by exchanging all the world's suffering for genuine happiness is based on Jamgön Kongtrul Lodrö Thaye's longer text, The Gateway to the Ocean of Bodhicitta.
Mind Training (Lojong) Bodhicitta 7 May 2015
by Ga Rabjampa Kunga Yeshe
A prayer of aspiration that incorporates the central principles and key terminology of the lojong (blo sbyong) or 'mind training' tradition according to the Mahāyāna.
Mind Training (Lojong) 10 Dec 2021
by Gatön Ngawang Lekpa
Taken from the author's miscellaneous writings, this inspiring prayer to complete the bodhisattva path was composed at the request of Lama Jamyang Gyaltsen (1870–1940).
31 Jan 2019
by Gorampa Sonam Senge
Gorampa Sönam Senge drew upon various Mahāyāna treatises to compose these verses summarizing the ten great aspirations, which themselves encompass all the countless aspirations of first-bhūmi bodhisattvas.
15 Oct 2024
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
This aspiration, written during an unspecified snake year, incorporates the key elements of the Mind Training teachings, such as taking on others' suffering and giving away one's own happiness, and perfecting relative and absolute bodhicitta.
Mind Training (Lojong) 11 Sep 2020
by Lala Sonam Chödrup
A prayer of aspiration based on the so-called eight thoughts of great beings (skyes bu chen po'i rnam rtog brgyad).
26 Mar 2018
by Nāgārjuna
This Mahāyāna aspiration prayer in sixteen stanzas, which is attributed to the great Indian master Nāgārjuna, is included within the Tengyur (Toh 4385).
Tengyur 24 Mar 2025
by Nyoshul Lungtok
In this short text, the celebrated Dzogchen teacher Nyoshul Lungtok Tenpe Nyima offers a prayer to the root and lineage gurus and all the buddhas and bodhisattvas requesting their blessings and inspiration so that we might perfect the cultivation of bodhicitta in all its aspects.
Bodhicitta 28 Oct 2015
by Patrul Rinpoche
This prayer of aspiration covers the entire Buddhist path, but places special emphasis on the cultivation of bodhicitta in its various forms. For to have bodhicitta, says Patrul Rinpoche, is to have "all that's needed to attain enlightenment."
Mind Training (Lojong) Bodhicitta Nyingma Mönlam 13 Oct 2010

Commentaries
by Patrul Rinpoche
This brief guide to explaining Minling Terchen Gyurme Dorje's famous aspiration prayer, known as 'The Secret Vajra Knot' (rdo rje rgya mdud), provides a topical outline of its contents, and, in so doing, reveals the vastness of its vision.
Topical Outlines Pedagogy 29 May 2015

Devotion
by Fourteenth Dalai Lama
Shortly after Khenchen Jigme Phuntsok's passing in 2004, His Holiness the Dalai Lama wrote this prayer "so that the enlightened intentions of this great being may be fulfilled completely and to help dispel the anguish of his disciples."
Songs and Poems 16 Oct 2005

Dzogchen
by Dudjom Lingpa
A four-line prayer of aspiration to devote one's entire life to the practice of Dzogpachenpo and attain the rainbow body of great transference ('ja' lus 'pho ba chen po).
Dudjom Tersar 26 Apr 2021
by Dudjom Rinpoche
Kyabje Dudjom Rinpoche composed this four-line prayer of aspiration spontaneously on the occasion of his first teaching of “Hitting the Essence in Three Words” in the West, to an assembly of thirteen students in Paris, 1976.
Dzogchen 8 Feb 2017
by Jigme Lingpa
This famous aspiration to realize the ground, path and fruition of the Great Perfection (rdzogs pa chen po) is part of the Longchen Nyingtik revelation of Jigme Lingpa.
Dzogchen Termas Longchen Nyingtik Nyingma Mönlam 30 Dec 2006
by Mipham Rinpoche
Written using the language of the Great Perfection, this prayer, which Mipham wrote in 1886, is an aspiration to realize the nature of mind — indestructible awareness and emptiness — and the true meaning of Mañjuśrī.
Dzogchen Mañjuśrī 23 Jun 2017
by Rigdzin Gödem
This famous prayer of aspiration of Buddha Samantabhadra (kun bzang smon lam), which is taken from the All-Penetrating Wisdom Mind (dgongs pa zang thal) revelation, is among the most popular texts of the Dzogchen tradition. Its recitation is especially recommended during solar and lunar eclipses, at the solstices and new year, as well as during earthquakes and other environmental anomalies.
Dzogchen Termas Rinchen Terdzö Nyingma Mönlam Northern Treasures 31 Dec 2019
by Trulshik Rinpoche
Kyabje Trulshik Rinpoche composed this short prayer for the realisation of the ultimate view, meditation and conduct at the request of a devoted student by the name of Changchub Chökyi Drolma.
6 Sep 2016
by Trulshik Rinpoche
A four-line aspiration to realize the nature of Buddha Samantabhadra, which Trulshik Rinpoche composed in La Sonnerie, France, in November, 2001.
2 Sep 2021

General
from the Words of the Buddha
So popular and influential is Samantabhadra’s “Aspiration to Good Actions” (bzang spyod smon lam) from the Gaṇḍavyūha chapter of the vast Avataṃsaka Sūtra, it is known as the king of all aspiration prayers. It is included in the Dhāraṇī section of the Kangyur (Toh 1095) and the Miscellaneous section of the Tengyur (Toh 4377).
Kangyur Tengyur Compendium of Sādhanas Nyingma Mönlam Ten Royal Sūtras 2 Jun 2008
revealed by Chokgyur Dechen Lingpa
This aspiration prayer is said to have been spoken by Guru Padmasambhava when revealing the Vajradhātu maṇḍala in the temple of Samye. The text was revealed by Chokgyur Lingpa and transcribed by Jamgön Kongtrul. Generally, it is known as Mönlam Chokchu Düzhima (Aspiration of the Ten Directions and Four Times), a name which derives from the prayer's first four syllables.
Termas Chokling Tersar Rinchen Terdzö Khyentse Kabab Nyingma Mönlam 14 Jun 2019
by Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche
Written in Nepal at the then newly-built Shechen monastery during a great accomplishment (sgrub chen) ritual of Tsokchen Düpa, this is an aspiration to accomplish the entire Longchen Nyingtik path, from the preliminaries through to the generation and completion stages and the practices of the Great Perfection.
Longchen Nyingtik 28 May 2021
by Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche
Written in Sikkim, this is an aspiration to realize the view of the Middle Way (Madhyamaka), the meditation of the Great Seal (Mahāmudrā), the conduct of single-taste, and the fruition of Dzogpachenpo, the Great Perfection.
17 Nov 2015
by Do Khyentse Yeshe Dorje
This aspiration prayer forms the conclusion of The Exceedingly Secret, Enlightened Heart-Essence (yang gsang mkha' 'gro'i thugs thig) revelation and thus is said to be the words of Pema Tötrengtsel (Mighty Lotus Skull-Garland, i.e., Padmasambhava) himself.
Termas 15 Dec 2020
by Dodrupchen Jigme Tenpe Nyima
A series of aspirations to devote one's life to the Dharma—which, Dodrupchen Rinpoche says, is the only thing of any real value or meaning—to practice it with sincerity, and to accomplish it successfully.
21 Feb 2008
by Dodrupchen Jigme Trinle Özer
Jigme Trinlé Özer made this series of altruistic aspirations as he was approaching the moment of death.
Dying & the Bardos 2 Jun 2018
by Dolpopa Sherab Gyaltsen
A prayer of aspiration to peferect the training, recognize the ultimate state of pristine awareness and benefit beings on a vast scale.
14 Sep 2018
by Dudjom Lingpa
A prayer of aspiration spoken by Vajrapāṇi and recorded by the visionary adept Dudjom Lingpa.
Dudjom Tersar 26 Apr 2021
by Dudjom Rinpoche
Kyabje Dudjom Rinpoche tells us that he composed this aspiration for his own recitation based on the vajra words of advice from great masters of the past. The prayer became one of his best known compositions.
12 Nov 2024
by Fourth Dodrupchen Rinpoche
This four-verse prayer of aspiration was composed in London in 1991 at the request of Alak Zenkar Rinpoche.
2 May 2022
by Fourth Dodrupchen Rinpoche
A four-line prayer of aspiration to accomplish the Dharma for one’s own and others’ benefit.
4 Feb 2022
by Gyalse Tokme Zangpo
This simple prayer of aspiration in five verses is included in the final volume of the Compendium of Sādhanas (sgrub thabs kun btus).
Compendium of Sādhanas 29 Dec 2021
by Gyalse Tokme Zangpo
A two-verse prayer of aspiration to follow Avalokiteśvara, the Great Compassionate One, and contribute to his enlightened activity.
Avalokiteśvara Compendium of Sādhanas 21 Nov 2022
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
This aspiration, composed in Lhasa for a Sakya lama named Jamyang Tsultrim, only recently came to light and is not included in any edition of Jamyang Khyentse's collected works.
23 Nov 2023
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
A prayer of confession and aspiration, calling upon all the gurus, buddhas and bodhisattvas. It was written in 1953, during what Jamyang Khyentse himself describes as a bout of sadness.
27 Jan 2020
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
Jamyang Khyentse wrote this prayer following the untimely passing of Princess Sangay Deki in Sikkim in 1957. The prayer is for the enlightenment of all with whom he was connected, even those who merely heard his name, but especially his devoted followers and disciples.
Sikkim 18 Sep 2019
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
Jamyang Khyentse composed this prayer of aspiration after reading the Words of the Buddha during the first month of the Earth Dog year (1958), a period of great turmoil within Tibet.
15 Sep 2020
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
In this prayer, composed at Bodhgayā, Jamyang Khyentse praises the features of the place Tibetans call the Vajra Seat (rdo je gdan), by comparing it to a celestial realm, and aspires to be reborn there in future.
India 17 Jul 2020
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
This thirteen-verse prayer, written in 1934, calls upon the Three Roots to witness a series of aspirations related to the Mahāyāna path, including elements of the Vajrayāna.
26 Mar 2022
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
Jamyang Khyentse appears to have composed this aspiration following the death of his mother, Tsultrim Tso—referred to here as Tsultrim Chökyi Drolma. In it, he vows to remain in saṃsāra until she and all other beings, his mothers from earlier lives, attain awakening.
12 Mar 2021
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
This prayer of aspiration, composed in a train carriage in India, is found only in the earliest, two-volume edition of Jamyang Khyentse's writings.
13 Oct 2022
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
Jamyang Khyentse composed this aspiration, which calls upon the Lamdré lineage gurus and deities of the Hevajra maṇḍala as witnesses, while practising guru yoga as a preliminary to the Hevajra recitation.
Lamdré 27 Aug 2021
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
This prayer, which Jamyang Khyentse composed while in Darjeeling, most likely in 1958, invokes various deities and masters associated with all Tibetan lineages in a spirit of nonsectarianism before seeking their assistance in fulfiling a series of aspirations.
Nonsectarianism 15 Mar 2021
by Jamyang Khyentse Wangpo
This aspiration, extracted from the Vajravārāhī feast offering in the Five Cycles of the Heart-Essence of the Mahāsiddha (Thangtong Gyalpo), is included among the Narak Dongtruk confessional practices in the Rinchen Terdzö.
Rinchen Terdzö Khyentse Kabab 18 Mar 2025
by Jigme Lingpa
This series of aspirations for future rebirths is tailored, Jigme Lingpa says, to the sorrow-inducing nature of this final age of degeneration, or kaliyuga.
Longchen Nyingtik 22 Apr 2021
by Jigme Lingpa
An aspiration to perfect bodhisattva aspirations, bring all sentient beings to maturity and purify the world and its inhabitants into a buddha realm. The text is included within recent editions of the Rinchen Terdzö, or Treasury of Revelations.
Longchen Nyingtik Rinchen Terdzö 28 Mar 2024
by Jigme Lingpa
This popular prayer by the vidyādhara Jigme Lingpa includes aspirations related to every stage of the path, from gaining a precious human rebirth and following a qualified teacher through to accomplishing the most advanced practices of Dzogpachenpo and, thereafter, working for others' benefit.
Longchen Nyingtik 28 Aug 2005
by Khenchen Jigme Phuntsok
A four-line prayer of aspiration spoken in front of a vast assembly in 1986.
17 Apr 2018
by Khenchen Jigme Phuntsok
This aspiration to be cared for by the guru throughout all future lifetimes was composed at Wutai Shan at the request of a disciple named Rigdrol.
6 Mar 2018
by Khenchen Jigme Phuntsok
Composed in Bodhgayā, this is a bodhisattva's aspiration to emulate the buddhas of the past, such as Śākyamuni, serve the remaining buddhas of this fortunate age, and lead all beings to awakening. The prayer was recorded and transcribed by Khenpo Sodargye.
30 Jun 2020
by Lelung Shepé Dorje
A prayer to take rebirth in the hidden sanctuary of Pemako (pad+mo bkod), where obstacles such as sickness and conflict are scarce or nonexistent and favourable conditions may aid progress on the Dharma path.
Pemakö Pilgrimage 15 Dec 2020
by Lelung Shepé Dorje
This aspirational prayer, composed at the request of Trinlé Losal, calls upon all the ḍākinīs of the three worlds to grant their blessings, so that the practitioner may complete the vajrayāna path and bring benefit to all beings.
25 Aug 2021
by Longchen Rabjam
This brief prayer, extracted from Longchen Rabjam's Treasury of Pith Instructions (man ngag mdzod), was added to the Longchen Nyingtik preliminaries.
17 Mar 2023
by Minling Terchen Gyurme Dorje
One of the most popular prayers in the Nyingma tradition, The Secret Vajra Knot (rdo rje rgya mdud) includes aspects of the dedication of virtue (dge ba bsngo ba), as well as various aspirations related to the path in general and the path of the three yogas, i.e., Mahāyoga, Anuyoga and Atiyoga, in particular.
Nyingma Mönlam Khyentse Kabab 12 Feb 2007
by Mipham Rinpoche
A four-line prayer of aspiration related to the four activities—pacifying, enriching, magnetizing and subjugating—composed in 1891.
13 Sep 2021
by Ngorchen Kunga Zangpo
This famous prayer is taken from the author's text in praise of the Vasudhārā (Tib. Norgyünma) maṇḍala, dPal ldan lha mo nor rgyun ma'i dkyil 'khor gyi lha tshogs la bstod pa chos dang dpal 'byor rgyas byed.
Compendium of Sādhanas 2 Jul 2018
by Padampa Sangye
This popular liturgy, attributed to Padampa Sangye, consists of thirty short aspirations related to the Mahāyāna path in general and the Vajrayāna in particular.
Damngak Dzö 30 Mar 2021
by Patrul Rinpoche
An untitled five-verse aspiration to perfect view, meditation and action and contribute to the flourishing of the teachings.
22 Apr 2022
revealed by Pema Lingpa
This famous prayer of aspiration, which was a terma revelation of Pema Lingpa (1450–1521), is said to record the words of Yeshe Tsogyal to Guru Padmasambhava as he was about to leave Tibet for the land of the rākṣasa demons.
Termas Rinchen Terdzö Ḍākinī Treasury Nyingma Mönlam 2 Sep 2011
attributed to Sakya Paṇḍita Kunga Gyaltsen
This short prayer, which tradition attributes to Sakya Paṇḍita, relates the various elements of prostration to aspirations for successfully following the path to enlightenment.
28 Apr 2015
by Shabkar Tsokdruk Rangdrol
A five-verse prayer of dedication and aspiration for the swift enlightenment of all beings.
Dedication 20 Feb 2023
by Shabkar Tsokdruk Rangdrol
This five-verse prayer of dedication and aspiration was composed for an event at which the maṇi mantra of Avalokiteśvara was recited.
Dedication 21 Feb 2023
by Shechen Gyaltsab Gyurme Pema Namgyal
A four-line prayer of aspiration in which every line begins with the word vajra (rdo rje).
10 Jun 2021
by Tai Situ Rinpoche
Brief verses of prayer invoking Buddha Śākyamuni, Prajñāpāramitā, Avalokiteśvara, Guru Padmasambhava, Vajrasattva, and the protector Bernakchen, together with their mantras, composed for daily recitation or use on special occasions.
Prayers 5 Dec 2022
by Tupten Chöpel
A simple four-line prayer to realize the ultimate nature and thereby benefit all beings each according to their needs.
17 Apr 2018

Lamrim
by Tsongkhapa Lobzang Drakpa
This very short prayer of aspiration, just seven quatrains long, focuses on accomplishing the stages of the path (lamrim) as a means to benefit all beings.
Lamrim 13 Jul 2018

Longevity
by Jamgön Kongtrul Lodrö Thaye
Kongtrul wrote this prayer while at the site of Yamalung, sacred for its connection with Guru Padmasambhava. In a series of verses aspiring for the longevity of all non-sectarian teachers, he offers not only a powerful practice text, but also a concise statement of his celebrated Rimé ideals.
Rinchen Terdzö 3 Jun 2015

Madhyamaka
by Khenpo Shenga
A two-verse aspiration to be reborn in the retinue of Ārya Nāgārjuna, gain perfect understanding of his Middle Way philosophy and teach it to others.
Middle Way 10 Feb 2020
by Khenpo Shenga
A prayer of aspiration to understand the nature of reality, just as it is explained in the Madhyamaka teachings, and then, having perfectly realized this view, to teach it to others, and in so doing, emulate great figures from the past like Nāgārjuna and Āryadeva.
Middle Way 26 Apr 2005

Mahāmudrā
by Third Karmapa
Among the most celebrated texts in the whole Tibetan Buddhist tradition, this beautiful prayer of aspiration succinctly conveys the spirit and profundity of the Mahāmudrā view and practice.
Mahāmudrā 13 Jan 2020

Peace and Welfare
by Chatral Rinpoche
This is a prayer for the modern age, or kaliyuga, calling upon Buddha Śākyamuni, Guru Padmasambhava and all enlightened deities, gurus and protectors, in order to transform the minds of those in positions of power, so that terrible weapons of war may be eradicated, and the threats they pose to Dharma and living beings removed, allowing peace to reign throughout the world.
Averting Obstacles Nyingma Mönlam 18 May 2015
by Dudjom Rinpoche
A four-line prayer for peace, prosperity and well-being throughout the world.
24 Apr 2023
by Fifteenth Karmapa
An invocation of Guru Padmasambhava and plea to eliminate obstacles and the various forms of adversity faced by beings in general and Tibetans in particular.
Tibet 28 Mar 2019
by Fourteenth Dalai Lama
In this prayer, which he wrote in 1960, shortly after arriving in exile, His Holiness the Dalai Lama invokes all the buddhas and bodhisattvas, especially Avalokiteśvara, and the power of truth itself, in order to bring an end to the turmoil in Tibet so that the Dharma and all aspects of Tibetan culture can flourish there once again.
Nyingma Mönlam Tibet 29 Jun 2006
by Fourteenth Dalai Lama
Composed at the Vajra Seat, Bodhgayā, in January 2005, this is an aspiration for the welfare of the Buddhist teachings and sentient beings in general and for the flourishing of Dharma in Tibet in particular.
Nyingma Mönlam Tibet 16 Dec 2020
by Jamgön Kongtrul Lodrö Thaye
Jamgön Kongtrul wrote this for his own practice during a time of great turmoil and upheaval, after Jamyang Khyentse Wangpo advised him of the importance of regular prayer for peace and stability. It has been popular ever since, especially when Tibet faces challenging times.
Tibet 19 Mar 2007
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
Written in 1957, the year that Jamyang Khyentse first arrived, this is a prayer for happiness in Sikkim and the fulfilment of the aspirations and prophecies of great masters of the past concerning the welfare of its people.
Sikkim 8 Sep 2019
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
Composed on the very first day of the Tibetan year of the Water Dragon (26 February 1952), this short prayer invokes the power and truth of the Three Jewels and Three Roots, especially Dorje Drakpo Tsal, in order to overcome invading armies.
Averting Obstacles 16 Sep 2020
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
In this prayer of aspiration, composed in 1955, Jamyang Khyentse calls upon all gurus, yidam deities, ḍākinīs, protectors, wealth deities and other guardians of virtue to come to the aid of Tibet and its people.
Tibet 16 Aug 2021
by Mipham Rinpoche
Mipham Rinpoche composed this four-verse prayer of aspiration for peace and happiness in 1888 at the behest of Tokden Shakya Shri (1853–1919).
28 Jun 2023
by Shabkar Tsokdruk Rangdrol
An appeal to the guru and Three Roots to grant their blessings, thereby ensuring happiness, peace and prosperity throughout the land.
Prayers 13 Feb 2023
by Thangtong Gyalpo
First spoken in the presence of the sacred Jowo Rinpoche statue in Lhasa, this prayer of aspiration is credited with ending a famine that affected Tibet, especially Kham, in 1437.
Compendium of Sādhanas Rinchen Terdzö Nyingma Mönlam Tibet 15 May 2015
by Thangtong Gyalpo
This prayer to alleviate the terrors of conflict was spoken by the great siddha Thangtong Gyalpo at a time when war ravaged Minyak in eastern Tibet. Such was the power of his words, it is said, the conflict instantly came to an end, and peace and prosperity reigned.
Compendium of Sādhanas 20 Apr 2020
by Thangtong Gyalpo
This prayer is said to have ended a virulent epidemic which had swept through the famous monastery-town of Sakya, proving effective where all other measures, including tantric rituals, had failed.
Sickness & Healing Compendium of Sādhanas Nyingma Mönlam 7 Oct 2022

Prayers for the Spread of the Teachings
by Amdo Geshe Jampal Rolwé Lodrö
This prayer for the spread of the teachings of the great Dzogchen master Longchen Rabjam (1308–1364) is also an extensive panegyric on the qualities of those teachings. It is unusual in that the author was himself a Gelugpa — albeit one who studied with Nyingma teachers and wrote on Dzogchen.
Nyingma 7 Jan 2017
from the Words of the Buddha
Popularly known as 'The Teachings Blaze' (bstan 'bar ma), this prayer for the spread of the teachings (bstan rgyas smon lam) is especially popular in the Gelug tradition. The first verse appears to be taken from the Pratimokṣa-sūtra (so sor thar pa'i mdo), while the remainder of the prayer, from the second verse onwards, is to be found in Atiśa Dīpaṃkara's Great Compendium of the Sūtras (Mahāsūtrasamuccaya; mdo kun las btus pa chen po).
Rinchen Terdzö Compendium of Sādhanas 30 Apr 2008
by Dudjom Rinpoche
A four-line aspiration for the spread of the teachings of Pegyal Lingpa (1924–1988), emanation of Padmasambhava and Nubchen Sangye Yeshe.
30 Dec 2022
by Dudjom Rinpoche
Dudjom Rinpoche composed this four-line prayer for the spread of the treasure tradition of Sera Khandro (1892–1940) shortly after receiving the transmission from her direct disciple Chatral Sangye Dorje (1913–2015).
26 Dec 2022
by Dudjom Rinpoche
This short prayer for the spread of the Nyingma tradition employs the word for 'three' (gsum) as the fourth syllable in each of its four lines.
Nyingma 25 Dec 2022
by Fourteenth Dalai Lama
His Holiness composed this prayer of aspiration for the flourishing of the teachings of the Jonang tradition in 2001 at the request of Khenpo Ngawang Dorje (b.1967).
Jonang 14 Sep 2018
by Fourteenth Dalai Lama
At the request of Trulshik Rinpoche (1924–2011) and others, His Holiness composed this prayer for the flourishing of the Buddhist teachings in 1999. It is a non-sectarian (ris med) aspiration extending to all the major and minor traditions of Tibetan Buddhism.
Nonsectarianism 13 Sep 2005
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
An aspiration for the spread of the teachings of the so-called Eight Great Chariots of the Practice Lineage (sgrub brgyud shing rta chen po brgyad): Nyingma, Kadam, Sakya, Marpa Kagyü, Shangpa Kagyü, Kālacakra, Pacification and Severance, and Approach and Accomplishment of the Three Vajras.
Nonsectarianism 13 Mar 2020
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
Jamyang Khyentse composed this short prayer for the spread of the Guhyagarbha Tantra teachings in Darjeeling, 1958, after explaining Lochen Dharmaśrī's commentary to a small group of disciples.
4 Aug 2019
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
A short prayer for the spread of the tradition of Chokgyur Dechen Lingpa, Jamgön Kongtrul and Jamyang Khyentse Wangpo and for the flourishing of the teachings at Tenchok Gyurme Ling (rten mchog 'gyur med gling), the seat of Chokgyur Lingpa, better known as Neten Monastery.
Nonsectarianism 15 Sep 2020
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
A prayer for the flourishing of the teachings composed on the occasion of bestowing the name Orgyen Tekchok Ngesang Tupten Pelgye Ling (o rgyan theg mchog nges gsang thub bstan 'phel rgyas gling) on the new temple at Takmo Monastery (stag mo dgon).
9 Jun 2022
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
A short prayer for the flourishing of the Katok branch of the Nyingma tradition, composed in Katok monastery's great temple in 1934.
Nyingma 16 Sep 2020
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
Jamyang Khyentse says that he saw a particularly crucial need for this prayer for the spread of Padmasambhava's tradition, which also incorporates aspirations for the flourishing of the Kadam, Sakya, Kagyü and Gelug schools and the lineages of Chokgyur Dechen Lingpa, Jamyang Khyentse Wangpo, Jamgön Kongtrul Lodrö Thaye, and Ju Mipham Namgyal Gyatso.
Nyingma Nonsectarianism 1 Apr 2022
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
In these twenty-one verses, composed in 1952, Jamyang Khyentse extols the qualities of the Buddha's Words and prays that the teachings may endure until the very end of existence.
Praise 2 Dec 2021
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
Written in Bodhgayā at a time when Tibet was facing great turmoil and an uncertain future, this is a non-sectarian prayer for the spread of the Buddhist teachings (bstan rgyas smon lam) in all their authentic forms.
Nyingma Mönlam 31 May 2007
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
One of several aspirations for the flourishing of the Nyingma tradition that Jamyang Khyentse composed, this one focuses especially on the Vajrayāna teachings.
Nyingma 29 Mar 2022
by Jamyang Khyentse Wangpo
This famous four-line aspiration for the propagation of the nonsectarian lineage of Jamyang Khyentse Wangpo was composed by the master himself.
Nonsectarianism Khyentse Kabab 31 Mar 2022
by Katok Dampa Deshek
This five-line aspiration for the spread of the teachings is said to be the final testament (zhal chem) of the great Dampa Deshek, founder of Katok Monastery.
Testament
by Katok Getse Gyurme Tenpa Gyaltsen
An aspiration for the teachings of the Buddha to flourish and spread in Taiwan, composed in 2018.
14 Mar 2019
by Khenchen Jigme Phuntsok
A prayer for the flourishing and spread of the teachings of all the major and minor traditions of Tibetan Buddhism, including the so-called Eight Great Chariots of the Practice Lineage (sgrub brgyud shing rta chen po brgyad), i.e., the Nyingma, Kadam, Sakya, Marpa Kagyü, Shangpa Kagyü, Kālacakra, Pacification and Severance, and Approach and Accomplishment of the Three Vajras.
Nonsectarianism 8 Apr 2021
by Khenpo Tsöndrü
A prayer for the spread of the teachings of the successive incarnations of Dzogchen Rinpoche Pema Rigdzin (1625–1697) and other figures closely associated with Dzogchen Monastery.
Nyingma 24 Jan 2006
by Könchok Tenpe Drönme
This aspiration for the flourishing of the Riwo Gendenpa tradition of Je Tsongkhapa Lobzang Drakpa is one of the most commonly recited prayers in the Geluk School.
Geluk 25 Jul 2018
by Mipham Rinpoche
This prayer for the spread of the teachings of the Nyingma tradition is among Mipham Rinpoche's most famous compositions. It is recited daily at the annual Monlam Chenmo festival and was the subject of a major commentary by Mipham's student and lineage-holder, Shechen Gyaltsab Pema Namgyal (1871–1926).
Nyingma Rinchen Terdzö Nyingma Mönlam 19 Oct 2018
by Shechen Rabjam Rinpoche
While Rabjam Rinpoche was on pilgrimage in Sumatra—identified with Suvarṇadvīpa, the Golden Isle, home of Atiśa's most important teacher, Dharmakīrti—he composed this brief aspiration for the resurgence of Dharma in general and Mind Training in particular upon the island.
22 Dec 2023
by Tertön Sogyal
This short prayer for the flourishing of the teachings (bstan rgyas smon lam) was spoken by a ḍākinī in a vision.
by Trulshik Rinpoche
A four-line aspiration prayer for the spread of the terma revelations of Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche (1910–1991), composed at the request of Lama Jigme of Khawalung Monastery.
11 Mar 2021
by Yangthang Rinpoche
Composed in Lerab Ling in 2013, this is at once an aspiration to realize the natural state of the Great Perfection, a prayer that the teachings of Clear Light Dzogpachenpo may spread throughout the world and a supplication for the long life of Sogyal Rinpoche.
22 Oct 2016

Recitation Guides
by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö
A simple visualization and some additional verses to be recited before and after the famous prayer known as Samantabhadra’s “Aspiration to Good Actions” (bzang spyod smon lam).
22 Jan 2020

Tārā
by Ratna Lingpa
This brief prayer of aspiration is extracted from The Wish-Fulfilling Jewel: A Sādhana of Yeshe Tsogyal as Noble Tāra (Ye shes mtsho rgyal 'phags ma sgrol mar sgrub pa'i thabs yid bzhin nor bu), a treasure (terma) revealed by Ratna Lingpa.
Tārā Termas Rinchen Terdzö 15 Jan 2019
revealed by Sera Khandro
A beautifully evocative prayer of aspiration to be reborn in Tārā's pure realm, known as The Land of Turquoise Leaves (g.yu lo bkod).
Tārā Ḍākinī Treasury 4 Sep 2017

Translation
by Trulshik Rinpoche
Composed in Lerab Ling, France in 2005 at the request of several translators, led by Tenzin Jamchen (Sean Price) and Chökyi Nyima (Richard Barron), this is a prayer of aspiration to be recited by modern-day lotsāwas.
4 Jan 2006

Vajrayoginī
by Nyangral Nyima Özer
This prayer is found as an appendix to "The Blissful Path to the Celestial Realm, an Activity Manual for the Practice and Worship of noble Vajrayoginī the Black Wrathful Lady", Nyangral Nyima Özer’s Tröma Nakmo (khros ma nag mo) practice, as arranged by Minling Lochen Dharmaśrī (1654–1717/18), and is still used today for such practices as the Yumka Dechen Gyalmo of the Longchen Nyingtik.
Vajrayoginī Yumka Dechen Gyalmo 2 Jun 2025
by Tsarchen Losal Gyatso
A prayer of aspiration to meet the Khecarī form of Vajrayoginī face to face and to be led to her celestial pure realm.
Vajrayoginī 19 Jul 2018

Light Offering Prayers
A series of 'lamp aspiration prayers' (mar me'i smon lam) to accompany the offering of butter lamps, lights or candles.
13 texts

Sukhāvatī Aspirations
A series of aspirations to be reborn in Sukhāvatī (bde ba can), the western pureland of Buddha Amitābha.
21 texts

Zangdok Palri Aspirations
Aspirations for rebirth on the Copper-Coloured Mountain of Glory (zangs mdog dpal ri), the heaven of Guru Padmasambhava.
14 texts

Related Topics

Auspiciousness Dedication Dedicatory Colophon Verses Light Offering Prayers Prayers

Bodhisattva Samantabhadra

Courtesy of Himalayan Art Resources

Further information:

BDRC T34 (smon lam)

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