Why do we need to train our mind? Before we realise samsaric life to be suffering, when a lama teaches the Dharma, we misunderstand it as a catalogue of misery and inevitability. We get the impression that everything we are interested in, all our wishes and desires, are unacceptable, and what is encouraged is singularly difficult and unachievable. However, when we do recognise our afflictive emotions to be suffering, we can do something to reduce them. Then, we can finally begin to free ourselves from their negative influence and find some real happiness. Thus, in order to accomplish meaningful inner transformation, of course we need to go to a little trouble.

One of the most eminent lamas in Tibet, Dzogchen Pema Kalsang Rinpoche is widely recognised as a brilliant scholar and highly realised master of the Great Perfection. In this faithful translation of his teachings on the Sublime Path to Omniscience by Jigme Lingpa, the entire path of the Dzogchen Preliminary Practices is presented in clear and experiential language, for the benefit of both beginners and experienced practitioners alike.