The Life and Visions of Yeshé Tsogyal

<b>This stunning biography reveals the heroic life of Yesh&#233; Tsogyal&#151;the mother of Buddhism in Tibet and a powerful female role model for spiritual accomplishment and perfection</b><br><br> This secret life story of Yesh&#233; Tsogyal presents a valuable and unique perspective that is quite a departure from any other account of this remarkable woman. Described as a secret life story its many layers include an outer account&#151;detailing her birth family and societal constraints&#151;an inner account that begins as she meets and escapes captivity with Guru Rinpoch&#233; and a secret account as she enters twelve years of retreat at Chimpu only to miraculously journey to Oddiyana.<br><br> The role of women and womanhood is notable throughout her life story. Her desire for independence is at odds with her desirability as a woman leading to numerous tragic incidents early in life. Finally meeting Guru Rinpoch&#233; she decries her status as a woman. This sort of gendered humility a recurring theme is juxtaposed with her assertion that despite being a woman and low-born (<i>skye ba dman</i>) she has a high regard for herself anyway. It is a magical woman who guides her to Oddiyana and her travels there are filled with primarily female companions. In the end she remains Guru Rinpoch&#233;'s primary disciple and doctrinal custodian.<br><br> Her experiences while perhaps intense and fantastical include the same elements of challenge learning and progress that all practitioners must experience. During her adventures in Oddiyana Yesh&#233; Tsogyal receives the same core teachings on faith impermanence and fortitude that are essential for anyone following this spiritual path.&#160;This accomplished translation is enriched by the refreshing insights of six contemporary scholars and teachers of Tibetan Buddhism making this invaluable guide to the life of Yesh&#233; Tsogyal a treasure for practitioners scholars and anyone intent on the possibility of awakening.