Powa
Powa (‘Transference’) refers to transferring the mind from one state to another, most commonly the practice of transferring consciousness at the time of death—either one's own or another's—to the pure land of Sukhavati or to a favorable rebirth in the human realm. The consciousness can also be transferred into the dharmakaya nature, thereby transforming ordinary perception into the state of enlightenment. Similarly, a realized teacher can transfer their realization directly into a student's mind through this principle. In the Düdjom Tersar, we find practices of Powa on all levels.
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.
