The Tibetan Book of the Dead · Reading 141 of 170

The Choosing of the Womb-Door

The Protection Against the Tormenting Furies

Reading 2 of 3

That [condition] is an indication that evil spirits and rākshasas [or demons] are interfering with one. For this time there is a profound teaching. Listen; and heed it:

At that time — when the tormenting furies will be in pursuit of thee, and when awe and terror will be occurring — instantaneously [visualize] either the Supreme Heruka, or Hayagrīva, or Vajra-Pani, or [any other] tutelary deity if thou hast such, perfect of form, huge of body, of massive limbs, wrathful and terrifying in appearance, capable of reducing to dust all mischievous spirits. Visualize it instantaneously. The gift-waves and the power of its grace will separate thee from the tormenting furies and thou wilt obtain the power to select the womb-door. This is the vital art of the very profound teaching; therefore bear it thoroughly well in mind.