The Drikung Kagyu Ngöndro Refuge Tree or Tsogshing: A Vision of Blessings and Inspiration
The Refuge Tree in the Drikung Kagyu tradition is a visualization of all sources of refuge brought together in a single sacred assembly. It serves as the foundation for generating faith, devotion, and reliance on the enlightened beings and the lineage while cultivating the altruistic intention of bodhicitta.

Tree Structure:

The tree emerges from a pristine lotus, sun, and moon base, symbolizing purity and the ultimate nature of reality. Its golden trunk and radiant branches extend infinitely, expressing the vast reach of the enlightened mind.

The tree is adorned with fruits, flowers, and jewels, signifying the fruition of the teachings and the blessings available to practitioners.

Central Figure:

At the heart of the Refuge Tree is Vajradhara, the primordial Buddha, representing the ultimate source of the teachings and the embodiment of wisdom and compassion.

Vajradhara appears seated on a lotus and moon disc throne, radiating blue light, holding a vajra and bell to signify skillful means and wisdom.

Lineage Masters: Above Vajradhara is the unbroken lineage of Drikung Kagyu masters, beginning with Tilopa, Naropa, Marpa, Milarepa, and Gampopa, followed by Phagmo Drupa and the successive Drikung lineage holders. Each master radiates their unique blessings and qualities.

Buddhas: Surrounding the lineage masters are the Buddhas of the ten directions, representing the enlightened body, speech, and mind of all Buddhas.

Bodhisattvas: To the sides are bodhisattvas like Avalokiteshvara (compassion), Manjushri (wisdom), and Vajrapani (power), embodying the key aspects of the path.

Yidams: Meditational deities such as Chakrasamvara and Vajrayogini appear in luminous forms, symbolizing the union of bliss and emptiness.

Protectors and Dakinis: At the base of the tree are dharma protectors like Achi Chokyi Drolma (a unique protector of the Drikung lineage) and other fierce deities and dakinis who safeguard the teachings and practitioners.

Surrounding Environment:

The Refuge Tree is set in an expanse of radiant light, symbolizing the limitless purity and activity of the enlightened beings.

A vast gathering of sentient beings is visualized surrounding the practitioner, all taking refuge together.

Practical Use in Ngöndro

The Drikung Kagyu Refuge Tree is visualized at the start of the refuge and bodhicitta practice in the ngöndro.

Practitioners imagine taking refuge in the enlightened assembly alongside all sentient beings, making offerings, and reciting refuge prayers.

Prostrations are performed while visualizing the Refuge Tree, creating a union of devotion, purification, and accumulation of merit.