The Quintessence of the Union of Mahamudra and Dzokchen

This book by Karma Chakme Rinpoche contains the quintessence — the purest, most concentrated form — of the union of Mahamudra and Dzokchen. Composed of eight songs, the text is a masterful synthesis of poetry and dharma that describes the complete path to enlightenment.

The Quintessence of the Union of Mahamudra and Dzokchen

by Karma Chakme Rinpoche, commentary by Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche, translated by Lama Yeshe Gyamtso, root text translated by Peter Alan Roberts

February 2008
ISBN: 978-1-934608-02-9
paperback
6 x 9 in., 360 pages
$24.95

Buy Now

Return to Catalog


The text, which is composed of eight songs, presents the quintessence of both mahamudra and dzokchen while celebrating their fundamental unity. Written in Karma Chakme’s unique style of extreme simplicity and great profundity, it makes what is normally difficult to understand very easy and straightforward.

Karma Chakme has said of his own teachings that “just as the garuda is both bird and man, so also are his teachings both Mahamudra and Dzokchen.”

Featured in Buddhadharma, Spring 2007, as “Vajrayana Unpacked”

  • The Quintessence of the Union of Mahamudra and Dzokchen presents in a very concise and inclusive way all that an individual actually needs to practice in order to attain awakening. This style of presentation, in its brevity and directness, is appropriate for the present time because our mental afflictions are strong and life is short. We do not have time to waste. –Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche

More about this author