Patrul Takes On a Powerful Adversary

Patrul was an endearing child of robust constitution, natural gentleness, and sharp intelligence, someone who quickly earned affection and praise from all sides. He was full of loving-kindness and compassion. He never harmed others and would not tolerate others doing harm. Seeing sheep being led off to slaughter, he would burst into tears and refuse to eat or drink for some time.

First known for his compassion, as he matured, he became known for his eloquence: he was able to persuade people to stop hunting foxes and killing other wild animals. Eventually, he also became known for his courage. For example, Palge treasurer-administrator Önpo Könchog became embroiled in a bitter legal dispute, the case had to be heard by the offcial representative of the King of Derge.

The opposition was led by a powerful Dzachukha offcial, Bunshul Thuthop Namgyal. By repeatedly defeating his oral arguments, Patrul demonstrated his exceptional skill in debate and succeeded in winning the case for Önpo Könchog. After this remarkable and completely unexpected victory, Önpo Könchog was heard to say, “Whether or not that young man is the real Palge Tulku, he sure has guts!”

From Jigme Gyalwai Nyugu, Patrul received teachings on the preliminary practices of Rigdzin Jigme Lingpa’s Longchen Nyingthig lineage. He received these teachings from his root guru on at least twenty-five di erent occasions. Patrul accomplished the practices thoroughly, in addition to completing many other meditation practices and recitations of the Vajrayana. Jigme Gyalwai Nyugu taught Patrul yogic practices involving the subtle channels and energies according to the Longchen Nyingthig tradition. He also gave him the oral instructions and personal guidance on the essential practices of Dzogchen, the Great Perfection. He bestowed upon Patrul numerous empowerments from the uninterrupted continuous transmission of the Kahma, the major texts of the ancient Nyingma tradition.