The Liberation Stories of the Kagyu Masters – Day 12

It is difficult to determine whether a lama is good or not, because we only see the outside. But that which makes someone a genuine lama lies inside.

We are told that we need to examine the lama, but in order to do this effectively we have to be quite knowledgable about the dharma. These days there are counterfeit items that are so well made that it is almost impossible for ordinary people to tell that they are fakes. Only an expert can see the difference.

Nevertheless, for me, when I think of what a good lama is, I think of one who practises, does sessions, studies, and teaches without any concern for wealth or status.

The students are also a helpful indicator of how good a lama is; if the students are being guided in the direction of the dharma and away from the eight worldly concerns the lama is probably pretty good.