“You must study and contemplate not only the Buddhist teachings, but even the doctrines of non-Buddhists.”

Pema Dragpa March 22, 2021

“You must study and contemplate not only the Buddhist teachings, but even the doctrines of non-Buddhists.”

“One may ask, ‘Since we are Mahayana and Dzogchen practitioners, why should we investigate all of these different views?’ Longchenpa answers that although there is some truth to that, you will better appreciate your own understanding and approach if you know different levels of approach and various kinds of ideas. Therefore, we are using this knowledge for the growth and exploration of a deeper meaning of nature.

Longchenpa is not the only one to have said this. At many places in the teachings the Buddha said, “You must study and contemplate not only the Buddhist teachings, but even the doctrines of non-Buddhists.” Then by comparing them you can learn more and thus your realization and understanding will increase.”

Venerable Khenpo Rinpoches

Opening the Clear Vision of the Vaibhashika & Sautrantika Schools (pg 22)

https://www.padmasambhava.org/chiso/books-by-khenpo-rinpoches/vaibhashika-sautrantika-schools/

Photo of Ven. Khenpo Tsewang Dongyal Rinpoche in Vaishali, India in 2010.