Samaya

Vows.

I thought I'd write a few words about this often
misunderstood term, its meaning and significance.
By no means should my few words be thought of
as authoritative or complete. But it is a start.

Samaya (or damtsik in Tibetan) are vows and commitments
taken when one receives empowerment in the Vajrayana.
If one has a root guru, studies mahayana for example, but
has not had empowerment from that Lama, there is no samaya
with that Lama. In Mahayoga or Highest Yoga Tantra, there are
14 root samayas. In the Dzogchen tradition there are 27 root
samayas of the body, speech and mind and 25 branch samayas.

Pratimoksha of the Hinayana and bodhisattva precepts of Mahayana
are another matter-- commitments of Sutric vehicles. Hinayana
can be understood as mainly renunciation at the level of physical
deeds. Mahayana commitments mainly concern intent. Conversely,
samayas are mainly about pure perception.

Traditionally, it is said in the classics that in the vajrayana
possession of two things-- devotion and samaya-- assures result.

So when a relationship, for example, works it works because there
are agreements or rules for engagement. Being a real human being--
responsible, honorable and upstanding means we keep our word.
To do so is very powerful. If we fail another in some way, we admit it
and make up for it in some symbolic way.

It doesn't have to be something woo-woo. No need for superstition--
like the deities are going to get you. It just boils down to being trustworthy.

"A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind..." :)
On my honor I will do my best, to do my duty..." ;)

Spiritual accomplishment is the biggest job. If we're irresponsible
in life, it'll be difficult in the infinite scope of spiritual practice. If we're
spiritually bankrupt, how will our lives go? It only stands to reason.

posted in Tibetan Buddhism - 3 replies