In 2003, the Venerable Khenpo Rinpoches initiated a program of intensive philosophical study (shedra) at Padma Samye Ling, beginning with an exploration of the two schools of Hinayana Buddhism. In this book, the shedra program continues with a discussion on the Cittamatra school (Mind Only) of Mahayana Buddhism.

The Mahayana has seven distinct characteristics that distinguish it from the Hinayana. Here Rinpoches present these characteristics according to the teachings of Longchenpa, along with extensive commetary on the Twenty Verses of the great master Vasubandhu. Buddha Shakyamuni declared, "Oh Bodhisttvas, the three realms are nothing other than mind." The Cittamatrins use these words as their point of departure.

This shedra took place from August 30^th-September 4^th, 2004, at Padma Samye Ling. To develop a better understanding of the four foundational doctrines of Buddhism, students are encouraged to study the Hinayana philosophy presented in the first shedra, in addition to the following two shedras on Madhyamaka and Rangtong and Shentong views.

This is a Revised Second Edition published by Dharma Samudra in August 2007.

Softcover; 160 pgs.