Nagarjuna's Bodhichitta Commentary; 04-September-2007 (Day 2 of 3; Morning) - Dalai Lama Audio Teachings on Tibetan Buddhism Podcast

In English, His Holiness answers audience questions addressing the situation of Tibet, goal of bodhicitta, nature of enlightened mind, future of the Dalai Lama institution, compatibility of Buddhist practices with theistic faith, universal purpose of human life, practice of patience towards harm-doers, subtle energy and mind, and the Heart Sutra mantra. In commentary on the texts, His Holiness discusses incorrect assertions by Buddhist philosophers distinguishing the selflessnesses of the person and of phenomena (partless particles, lack of external phenomena, true existence of mind and ultimate truth). He explains the differences within the Madhyamika school: the Svatantrika (Autonomist) view of a subtle objective reality and the ultimate Prasangika (Consequentialist) view of dependent origination and emptiness that explains the functionality of merely nominated appearances. The reasons that profound meditation on the wisdom of emptiness can sever the roots of samsara while even subtly incorrect views cannot are illustrated by the Twelve Links of Dependent Origination. Returning to English, His Holiness discusses perspectives of science and Buddhism on aspects of consciousness related to origin, death and reincarnation.