The text emphasizes that the true nature of the mind is like open space—vast, unchanging, and impossible to stain with "good" or "bad" deeds.
: Born into a high-caste Brahmin family in Bengal, he was initially a highly trained scholar in both Vedic and Buddhist traditions. The Life of Tilopa and the Ganges Mahamudra
: After a vision from a dakini (female wisdom being), he left the monastery and spent years in menial labor. His name, "Tilopa," comes from his work as a sesame seed grinder ( Tila = sesame; pa = one who works). The text emphasizes that the true nature of
Tilopa's life is characterized by "transgressive" or unconventional behavior designed to break through religious dogma and intellectual pride. The Life of Tilopa and the Ganges Mahamudra