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What are some of the major texts written by Naropa?

Naropa was a renowned Indian Buddhist master who lived in the 11th century. He was a key figure in the development of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism and is considered one of the 84 Mahasiddhas, or great adepts, in the Vajrayana tradition. Naropa was a prolific writer and composed numerous texts on various aspects of Buddhist philosophy and practice. Some of his major works include the Six Yogas of Naropa, the Vajra Verses, and the Vajra Songs.

The Six Yogas of Naropa is perhaps Naropa's most well-known and influential text. It is a comprehensive guide to the six yogas, or spiritual practices, that are central to the Kagyu tradition. These include inner heat yoga, illusory body yoga, clear light yoga, consciousness transference yoga, forceful projection yoga, and bardo yoga. The text provides detailed instructions on how to practice each of these yogas, as well as their benefits and the obstacles that may arise during the practice.

Another important text written by Naropa is the Vajra Verses. This text is a concise and profound summary of the key teachings of Vajrayana Buddhism. It presents the essential points of the path to enlightenment, including the four noble truths, the six paramitas, and the four yogas. It also emphasizes the importance of devotion and guru yoga in the Vajrayana tradition.

The Vajra Songs, also known as the Dohas, are a collection of songs and poems composed by Naropa. These songs are considered to be a manifestation of his realization and are full of profound wisdom and insight. They cover a wide range of topics, including the nature of reality, the path to enlightenment, and the relationship between the guru and disciple. The Vajra Songs are still widely studied and recited by practitioners of the Kagyu tradition.

In addition to these major texts, Naropa also wrote numerous other works, including commentaries on important Buddhist scriptures such as the Prajnaparamita sutras and the Bodhicaryavatara. He also composed many songs and poems that are still revered for their poetic beauty and spiritual depth. His writings continue to be studied and practiced by Buddhist practitioners around the world, making a lasting impact on the development of Vajrayana Buddhism.

In conclusion, Naropa was a prolific writer and his texts are considered essential reading for anyone interested in the Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. His works continue to inspire and guide practitioners on the path to enlightenment, making him a revered figure in the history of Buddhism.