In this session, Geshé-la shares of the funeral proceeding for His Eminence Yongdzin Tenzin Namdak Rinpoche who recently passed away in Nepal while in deep meditation (thukdam). He reflects on the unique opportunity to connect with this presence and explains the state of Thukdam, where advanced yogis rest in awareness through death and into the intermediate state. He outlines signs of meditative death — warmth, flexibility, and clarity — and describes the sacred outlook held by tantric practitioners during dying.

The conversation turns to Phowa, the practice of conscious transference of consciousness, with Geshé-la explaining its potential outcomes: liberation, rebirth in Buddha realms, or favourable human rebirth. He notes a planned Phowa group retreat and emphasises the importance of preparing for death through view and recognition. He also speaks to the importance of supporting practitioners at death, without disturbing their awareness.

As the discussion unfolds, Geshé-la responds to questions about relics, lineage blessings, and the role of ancestors in both Bön and African traditions. He offers a nuanced account of Bön’s evolution, integrating early shamanic practices with meditative and philosophical traditions. The capacity of Bön to absorb and refine what is beneficial — including teachings from other traditions — is explored.

A poignant exchange addresses the nature of Jesus’ death and fearlessness, leading Geshé-la to reflect on shared realisations across traditions. He emphasises that figures like Jesus and Buddha point to an inner potential — a nature we can each invoke.

The session concludes with a guided meditation through the stages of dissolution at death, visualising the elements dissolving into one another and resting in the clear light of dharmakāya. A dedication of merit and closing thanks follow.