Shabkar Tsogdruk Rangdrol (1781 – 1851 CE), born in northeastern Tibet, entered monastic studies at the age of eight, took full ordination at the age of 21, and became a wandering ascetic at the age of 25. He wrote extensively, and in the Tibetan tradition is considered second only to Milarepa in his yogic and poetic skills.
Sky empty and luminous
beyond all attachments,
Remains.
Me, the setting sun
resplendent with light,
Will not remain at all.
I pass behind the western summit
To reappear again soon,
Above the mountains of the east.
Translation by Matthieu Ricard
Hi Nawab, how wonderful to come across your site today, with this beautiful song of Lama Shabkar.
It took me directly to how things are – to that which is empty and luminous, yet all the display of appearances are not separate from that primordial purity.
How poignant is Shabkar’s song – if you grasp at all that arises and ceases, then this way lies suffering.
Yet know your true nature, empty and luminous, and know those appearances as just a magical display – then freedom lies here. The deathless.
So inspired was I after reading your post here that I shared some reflections on my site on this beautiful song by Shabkar:
https://luminousemptiness.co.uk/sky-empty-luminous-shabkar/
I hope it’s ok to share it with your readers.
I’m looking forward to reading more on your site – inspired indeed!