Song of Realization by Tsongkhapa, Part 1 of 2

The venerated enlightened Master Tsongkhapa was a religious philosopher and the founder of the Gelug School, meaning the Virtuous Order. Master Tsongkhapa studied the scriptures very thoroughly. After a long period of diligent learning, He wrote many famous works and was determined to revive the original goals and disciplines of Tibetan Buddhism. Strictly emphasizing a pure moral conduct for His disciples, Master Tsongkhapa stated that monks should refrain from killing life and drinking wine. Today we would like to share with you excerpts from "Song of Realization," an autobiography by the Venerated Master Tsongkhapa describing His own spiritual studies and practice. "When one's efforts still are slight, It is said to be best to congratulate others' virtues. In order to gather the momentous stores (of merit and wisdom). And one feels an even greater joy, especially, When free of claims to one's own past virtues, Thinking ‘increase past virtues ever more,’ In order to live up to the impact of the Victor's teaching, Also seeing many other dire necessities - It is excellent, O my mind, When you feel such joy!"