Toh 1199An Extensive Commentary on the Great Secret and Introduction to All the Tantras, the Glorious “Emergence from Sampuṭa,” called “The Garland of Precious Jewels”

Explanation of the Ratnamālā Scripture: An Extensive Commentary on the Sampuṭa Tantra

Context

This scripture is a comprehensive commentary (ṭīkā) on the Sampuṭa Tantra, one of the most important classical works of the Vajrayana. The title “Garland of Precious Jewels” (Ratnamālā) suggests that this commentary is like a necklace composed of precious gems, each one a profound lesson on the nature of ultimate truth.

The Sampuṭa Tantra, translated as “Sealed in the Palm of the Hand,” is a scripture of the advanced Yoga Tantra lineage, focusing on the union of the principles of emptiness (śūnyatā) and deity visualization. This scripture is regarded as a “king of tantras” (tantrarāja) because of its comprehensive and profound character.

The author of this commentary, according to the tantric tradition, uses a step-by-step method of teaching, beginning with an introduction to all tantras (nidānamahāguhya), from the most basic forms to the most secret levels. This reflects a core principle of the Vajrayana: there is no separation between what is lowly and what is sublime, but only different degrees of understanding.

Main Contents

This commentary explores three fundamental aspects of tantric training. First, it explains the “great secret” (mahāguhya), namely the unborn and indestructible nature of the mind of reality, concealed by the most subtle forms of ignorance. Second, it establishes a theoretical foundation for understanding all tantras as different aspects of the same truth: all dharmas are one (ekātmaka).

This scripture emphasizes the view that nothing is “filthy” or “pure” in its absolute nature. Actions regarded as “forbidden” in the traditional Vinaya become, in Tantra, direct means for awakening the buddha-mind. However, this is not a denial of ethics, but the transformation of the practitioner’s entire conception.