The Practice of Chöd: An In-Depth Workshop

Chöd, or “cutting through,” is a profound practice that cuts to the heart of wisdom and compassion. Traditionally attributed to the eleventh-century female practitioner Machig Labdrön, it is prevalent in many Tibetan Buddhist lineages. Combining the view of the Prajnaparamita sutras with tantric visualization methods, chöd is a direct meditational approach to severing ego-clinging. Chöd practice is also known for its hauntingly beautiful melodies, and has traditionally been used as part of Buddhist healing rituals. Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche has repeatedly emphasized the importance of practicing of chöd, and of perfecting our understanding of both its profound meaning and its lineage of ritual techniques.

We are very fortunate that RYI Professor and Tibetan translator Dr. Catherine Dalton will lead us in this online study and practice program, focusing on the concise Chokling Tersar chöd manual entitled “The Daily Practice for Giving the Body.” Over the course of the weekend, Catherine will take us through the verses of the chöd sadhana line-by-line, focusing on the Tibetan words of the text and drawing out their levels of meaning within the context of the Buddha’s teachings as a whole. We will also practice together, guided by recordings of Lama Tsultrim Sangpo, who has led our practice in years past. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions.

Whether you are a beginner or a long-time practitioner of chöd, this weekend program will allow for a meaningful exploration of this practice of cutting through ego-clinging. Additionally, students of the Tibetan language will benefit from Catherine’s focus on the original Tibetan verses of sadhana, and how these have been translated in English, although no experience in the language is necessary to attend the program. All registrants will gain access to recordings of Lama Tsultrim’s 2018 chöd retreat, so that we can continue to study and practice this method for realizing prajnaparamita, the perfection of wisdom.

Retreat Structure

Dr. Catherine Dalton led this retreat via Zoom on March 27th & 28th, 2021. Registrants will gain access to the recordings of all sessions, which integrate teaching, practice, and Q&A. There are four sessions, each approximately 2.5 hours in length.

Program Fee

Suggested Price of $108 (sliding scale)

Gomde California is providing this program on a sliding scale, allowing all who are interested to join at the level they are able. We suggest giving $108 if possible, to help us cover the center’s program and operational costs. Upon registration, there will also be opportunities to contribute to initiatives currently underway at Gomde. In addition, if you are able, we encourage you to help us sustain the Dharma in the West becoming a monthly donor here: Giving to Gomde.

Technical Details

• A Zoom link to access the retreat will be sent upon registration.
• We will use the Zoom platform for the entire retreat
• The teachings will be recorded and made available to participants afterwards. An email will be sent out when the recordings are available.
• You can view the program at a time that is convenient for you. You are not required to join the live sessions.
• If you enroll after the program starts you will have access to the recordings.
• Registrants will also gain access to recordings of the 2018 Chöd Retreat with Lama Tsultrim.

If you have any questions, please contact us at programs@gomdeca.org.