The Mirror of Dzogchen long-dé

These teachings on the intrinsically enlightened nature of romance, concern the subtle interpersonal dynamics which are the innate glory of our being as women and men. These teachings are from the ‘Nyida Mélong Gyud’ which means ‘the tantra of the mutual reflection of Sun and Moon’ – these being symbols of the genders. In relationship, we reflect each other’s innermost nature. We see each other and are seen by each other as no one else can. These reflections may be distorted and horrifying, or clear and invigorating, according to the nature of how we perceive.

The mélong — as well as the faceted crystal and crystal sphere — are primary symbols in Dzogchen. The mélong symbolises the nature of Mind in terms of its innate clarity and the apparitions which move as reflections. Khyungchen Aro Lingma — the gTértön who received the Aro gTér from Yeshé Tsogyel — is shown holding a mélong in her right hand. She wears a gomtag—mediation belt—indicative of Dzogchen long-dé — the main practice orientation of her lineage.

Ngak’chang Rinpoche and Khandro Déchen will give teachings and transmissions of two practices of mélong within the Aro gTér. The first is the solitary practice of mélong gazing. The second is the couple practice of mélong gazing — using a long gomtag that supports both partners. This couple-practice is connected with the Khandro dPa’wo Nyi-da Mélong Gyüd — the Mirror which Reflects the Moon and Sun of the Khandros and dPa’wos. Khandro Déchen will also give the mélong transmission— which can only be given by female Lamas of the lineage — as a means of establishing the experiential foundation for the practises.

Ngak’chang Rinpoche and Khandro Déchen are known for their approachability, humour, and delight in answering question

‘The sound of the vulture’s flight through the mirror of space is the method of practice. The white vulture, glides effortlessly above the mountain range; yet the snow and rock remain — and Mind discovers itself in free space. The vulture has no fear of terrible heights — because the mirror of sky is her natural home.’ Khandro Déchen