Recognizing rigpa
Recognizing rigpa—the pristine awareness at the heart of Dzogchen—is the pivotal moment in practice. It marks the difference between intellectual understanding and direct realization.
Recognizing rigpa—the pristine awareness at the heart of Dzogchen—is the pivotal moment in practice. It marks the difference between intellectual understanding and direct realization.
One of the most important insights in Dzogchen is learning to tell the difference between ordinary mind (*sem*) and pure awareness (*rigpa*). Without this clarity, practice can easily fall into confusion.
Because distraction is strong and habits are deep, Dzogchen practitioners often use reminders—both natural and intentional—to recall awareness throughout the day. Bells and other cues serve as supports for continuity of rigpa.