The reason for learning from others

by Longchenpa

You must listen to teachings when you first enter the Dharma. This is in order to make the right choices by understanding samsara’s flaws and the virtues of nirvana.

You must listen to teachings when trying to train your mind. This is in order to turn away from being ignorant about so many things.

You must also listen to teachings when you try to practice daily. This is in order to stabilise and gain progress in your spiritual practice.

You must also listen to teachings when you have totally freed your mindstream. This is in order to cut through any conceptual doubts.

From the very first step on the path right now, all the way until you have reached the final end, it is of vital importance to rely on someone who is better than yourself. This is in order to direct your mind toward the spiritual practice of past masters and to raise your own level of experience and realisation.

Those who begin by being content with knowing “just this much” and cling to it, whatever insight it may be, will never reach the end of the path, even if they practice in solitude, and will therefore not notice any sidetrack or delusion. Other people may see you as a spiritual person, but for you personally there will be no progress.