Jangchub Sem
In Mahayana, Jangchub Sem (bodhicitta) is the altruistic aspiration to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all sentient beings, that is commonly represented by a bodhicitta prayer following the taking of refuge at the beginning of each practice.
In Vajrayana, bodhicitta encompasses both the provisory aspiration and the ultimate realization, while also referring to the subtle essence within the channels—the white and red bindus (thiglé) inherited from one's parents that contain the potential for enlightenment and are manipulated through advanced yogic practices to generate bliss and wisdom.
In Dzogchen, according to Longchenpa, Jang stands for primordial purity, Chub for spontaneous presence and Sem compassion.
Since the early 8th century, Tibetans and Himalayan people have treasured "Namtars" as written or spoken narratives that demonstrate the realization of the Buddhist path by exceptional practitioners. These namtars, or spiritual biographies, serve as inspirational guides on the path to enlightenment.
Today, Namtars Foundation aims to record, preserve, and freely offer the world a written and electronic treasury of the oral wisdom of Tibetan and Himalayan Buddhism.
