(Vajrayogini statue owned by the 9th Jetsun Dampa Rinpoche, stored at the Takten House, Dharamshala, India)
Among the many unique transmissions, I’ve received from my beloved teacher, the 9th Khalkha Jetsun Dampa Rinpoche, the Vajrayogini Cho Tsok stands out as one of the most profound and cherished. This practice, known as Cho Tsok in conjunction with Vajrayogini, is not just a ritual; it’s a deep transformative experience that has shook the core of my heart and soul, it’s magical!
Vajrayogini Cho Tsok ritual text, conducted twice a month on auspicious days, is celebrated by the highest yoga tantra practitioners. During this practice, we offer our transformed bodies as delicious nectars to all beings—both awakened and unawakened, including those who cause harm. It also includes a Guru Yoga practice, recognizing our guru as inseparable from Vajrayogini herself. The entire text is chanted with beautiful traditional melodies, accompanied by the bell and Cho damaru, that has been transmitted by great masters through the Ear-Whispered Lineage.
When I first received the transmission, I experienced an overwhelming sense of familiarity of the sacred melodies, as if I had sung them countless times before. My heart raced with emotions, and my tears welled up with joy.
During my time with Rinpoche at Takten in India, he had never missed one single practice twice a month on Dakini days. His unwavering dedication to the Vajrayogini Cho Tsok has inspired me deeply. I can still vividly recall those holy moments this practice brought with Rinpoche: “These sacred dialogues are nothing short of magical. During Dakini Day Tsok feasts, I felt the undeniable presence of Dakini in my teacher. His slender fingers with long nails, the gentle sway of his hips as he walked, his soothing voice, and the melodic tones that flowed from his tender lips all revealed his vast and overwhelming compassionate mind and heart. He cared for his students as if they were his own dearest children. Like a Dakini, his eyes held a bit of compassionate wrath at times, but most of all, his mind was inseparable from Dakini’s. All our teachers remind us of Dakini’s presence, both within and around us as practitioners.” (p.158, The Heart of Cho, Volume 2)
The Vajrayogini Cho Tsok is a sacred gift I’ve received from Rinpoche, and it is my responsibility to share it authentically with my Western students by faithfully offering transmissions of this lineage ritual.
May I continue to see my teacher as inseparable from Dakini Vajrayogini! May I always offer my body as a feast to you, Vajrayogini! May the sacred melodies of Vajrayogini Cho Tsok constantly resonate throughout the universe until all suffering ceases!
Choying Khandro
Dakini's Whisper
KJD Initiative
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