This text contains Mahamudra teachings given by Garchen Rinpoche during his first visit to the United States in 1997. These teachings are based on the teachings of Lord Jigten Sumgon as clarified by RInpoche's own experience and realization and thus represent a unique record of the transmission of Mahamudra in the Drikung Kagyu lineage. In this respect, this is truly a remarkable set of teachings, stemming from the father of the Drikung Kagyu lineage.

His Eminence Gar Knchog Nyidon Nyima Chkyi Senge was born in 1936. His Holiness Zhiwe Lodr (the prior Chetsang Rinpoche, 1886 1943) recognized him to be the incarnation of Garchen Thrinley Yongchap. From the age of seven to twenty-two he stayed at the Drikung monastery called Lho Miyel-gon. At a young age he was given a special ordination during which he recognized Lord Jigten Sumgn in a portrait and said, This is my lama. During this period his former disciple, Chime Dorje, taught Rinpoche. When Garchen Rinpoche was thirteen, Chime Dorje gave him the Mahamudra teachings. Thereafter he received all the Drikung Kagy empowerments and teachings, started ngndro practice, and studied the Six Yogas of Naropa. During the Cultural Revolution there were no Dharma teachings. However, he secretly received instructions from Khenpo Mnsel. With great perseverance, he practiced the teachings for twenty years. Khenpo Mnsel was very pleased and said; He is a very special bodhisattva incarnation. Of this there is no doubt. Garchen Rinpoche is currently establishing a Buddhist College at his monastery Lho Longkar Gn for about one hundred monks. Whatever food or wealth he receives as offerings is always used for the monks and nuns. He keeps nothing for himself. He is very respectful to all persons. With loving-kindness, compassion and bodhicitta he thinks only of how to benefit others.