This article explores the development of the Great Perfection (rDzogs Chen) tradition in Tibetan Buddhism, focusing on how it has adapted to historical and cultural contexts. Through a transdisciplinary approach that integrates historical analysis with psychological and cognitive science perspectives, it examines the impact of trauma on the tradition's evolution. The study highlights how Dzogchen's myths and practices reflect responses to socio-political crises and internal conflicts, showcasing meditation as a dynamic cultural phenomenon that evolves to address changing historical circumstances.

This article examines the formation of the Nyingma school within Tibetan Buddhism, emphasizing meditation as a cultural phenomenon shaped by historical and collective trauma. It argues that the doctrines and practices of Dzogchen, including the idea of effortless enlightenment, are deeply intertwined with the socio-political upheavals and marginalization experienced by the tradition's founders. By situating meditation practices within their temporal and social contexts, the study highlights how these practices serve as mechanisms for cultural adaptation and transformation.

This article explores Dzogchen meditation practices within the context of Tibetan culture and history. The study highlights how the practice of "Skullward Leap" (thod rgal, Tögal).) is deeply intertwined with Tibetan cultural elements such as the sky and historical narratives, demonstrating how meditation adapts to and reflects the broader socio-cultural dynamics. By examining the meditation through five frames—place, time, community, body, and material culture—the article portrays meditation as a dynamic cultural phenomenon that evolves with changing historical circumstances. This approach challenges the modern, decontextualized view of meditation, aiming to reposition it within its rich Tibetan origins and the broader discussions of freedom in meditation.

This article examines the contemplative practices of the Dzogchen tradition within Tibetan Buddhism, particularly in light of the commonly held view of Dzogchen as embodying an ethos of freedom, spontaneity, and effortlessness. He critically evaluates this notion by highlighting that Dzogchen also involves aspects of confinement, limitation, and structured discipline, which are essential for understanding the tradition's complex contemplative system. The study delves into the early scriptures and later exegeses to reveal how Dzogchen meditation practices, particularly "Direct Transcendence" or “Skullward Leap” (thod rgal, Tögal).), embody a dialectical relationship between effortless liberation and the constraints imposed by structured practices and ethical norms. The study situates these practices within their historical and cultural contexts, demonstrating how they adapt to and reflect broader socio-cultural dynamics, thus portraying meditation as a phenomenon that evolves with changing historical circumstances.

This monograph investigates the Skullward Leap (thod rgal, Tögal) technique within the Dzogchen tradition, emphasizing its cultural and historical roots. The study highlights how Dzogchen meditation practices are deeply embedded in pre-Buddhist Tibetan culture, particularly the indigenous sky-cult and its quest for vitality. By exploring these practices within their historical and cultural contexts, the article portrays meditation as a dynamic phenomenon that evolves in response to shifting historical circumstances, reflecting the integration of indigenous Tibetan and Buddhist elements.