The Wisdom Podcast Eva Natanya: Śamatha and Vipaśyanā: Part 2 (#225)
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Jan 18, 2026 In this thought-provoking discussion, Eva Natanya, a scholar and practitioner with a rich background in contemplative studies, delves into the intricate processes behind translating and compiling Buddhist texts, specifically focusing on śamatha and vipaśyanā. She shares her solitary retreat experiences and the significance of rigorous practice. Topics like the union of pristine awareness and clear light, as well as insights into compassion and Dzogchen teachings, highlight the depth of her exploration, emphasizing the courage required on the spiritual path.
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Translation As Devotional Practice
- Eva Natanya describes how her translation work with Lama Alan Wallace nourished her solitary retreats and became a devotional practice.
- She says dwelling with Tibetan passages felt like guru yoga and brought vivid blessings during retreat.
Union Rather Than Sequence
- Lama Tsongkhapa presents shamatha and vipashyana as unified in a stream, not strictly sequential or alternating practices.
- The union crucially depends on pliancy elicited from vipashyana built upon full shamatha attainment.
Different Routes To Clear Light
- The Gelugpa completion stage requires dissolving subtle energies into the central channel before the indestructible bindu reveals clear light.
- Dzogchen, by contrast, can manifest rigpa without that dissolution, allowing pristine awareness to appear with senses open.
