David Germano and Michael Sheehy Discuss the History, Diversity and Modern Relevance of Dark Retreat

David Germano and Michael Sheehy join Andrew Holecek to discuss the history, diversity, and modern relevance of dark retreats in Tibetan Buddhism. The speakers discuss the two main streams of dark retreat practices - the Kalachakra tradition and the Dzogchen tradition - and how they differ in their approaches and interpretations. The conversation also explores the traditional secrecy surrounding these practices, the reasons for it, and the challenges of appropriately translating and adapting them for a modern, Western audience. The speakers emphasize the importance of understanding the cultural and environmental factors that shape these practices, as well as the need for caution and humility when engaging with them as outsiders. Finally, the speakers provide advice for those interested in exploring dark retreats, emphasizing the importance of sincerity, self-awareness, and gradually building up experience with darkness and contemplative practices. They also discuss the potential of dark retreats as a powerful tool for personal transformation and healing, particularly in addressing the challenges of the modern "dark age."