The Nyengyü Text Project

Our Vision

The Nyengyü Text Project is a profound initiative dedicated to preserving and propagating the two significant oral lineages within the Geluk tradition: the Ganden-Ensa and Machik Dakini Ear-Whispered Lineages of Chö. The 14th Dalai Lama entrusted the 9th Khalkha Jetsun Dampa Chokyi Gyeltsen (1933-2012) with the responsibility to safeguard these rare and precious lineages. Despite being highly revered by Geluk masters, these teachings remain primarily undocumented and obscure, particularly in the English-speaking world.

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We aim to bring these sacred teachings to light by publishing English translations of crucial lineage practice texts, including sadhanas, empowerment texts, and retreat manuals. By doing so, we aim to ensure that these rare teachings' authentic practices and transmissions are preserved and remain accessible to Western practitioners, maintaining their traditional integrity.

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Background and Significance

Preserving the Ganden-Ensa and Machik Dakini Nyengyü lineages of Chö has been a central commitment of the 9th Khalkha Jetsün Dampa Initiative. Recognizing the importance of these teachings, the 9th Jetsun Dampa dedicated his life to their preservation, understanding that support from beyond the Tibetan community would be essential for their survival.

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In 2023, the Dalai Lama identified the Yangsi of Khalkha Rinpoche, bringing renewed urgency to this project. With many of the original students of Jetsün Dampa advancing in age, there is a pressing need to document and preserve their knowledge to ensure these lineages are transmitted faithfully to future generations. The Nyengyü Text Project will play a critical role in making these teachings accessible, ensuring their continued relevance and practice in the modern world.

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Goals

The primary goal of the Nyengyü Text Project is to publish the entire collection of Ganden-Ensa and Machik Dakini Chö sadhanas and relevant texts. We plan to partner with a Dharma publishing company and work alongside esteemed scholars to produce critical translations of these texts.

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In addition to publishing these vital sadhanas, the project will:

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• Provide Resources: Offer materials that support further research on these rare traditions, allowing scholars to delve deeper into the study of Chö within the Geluk tradition. This includes the bibliography of the texts according to the Ganden-Ensa and Machik Dakini Ear-Whispered Lineages of Chö.

• Increase Awareness: Foster interest among Buddhist practitioners and scholars in the Chö practices of the Geluk lineage, thereby disseminating authentic knowledge and encouraging the practice of these teachings.

 

The Nyengyü Text Project is integral to the Khalkha Jetsun Dampa Initiative, initiated by Choying Khandro and Cameron Gehlert. Through this project, we aim to honor the legacy of the 9th Khalkha Jetsun Dampa and ensure that the profound wisdom of the Ganden-Ensa and Machik Dakini Nyengyü lineages is preserved and shared with the world.

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Conclusion

The Nyengyü Text Project is not just an academic or publishing endeavor but a heartfelt commitment to preserving the living tradition of the Ganden-Ensa and Machik Dakini Ear-Whispered Lineages of Chö. By translating and publishing these sacred texts, we hope to ensure that their profound teachings continue to inspire and guide practitioners for future generations.

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We invite scholars, practitioners, and supporters to join us in this noble effort to safeguard and transmit these invaluable teachings to the future.