The Primordial Rigden thangka hangs as the central image on the public shrine in Shambhala Centres worldwide. Every detail of the image was designed by Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche and meticulously painted by artist Cynthia Moku. This booklet explains in simple language why the thangka is there and what it means. Generously illustrated throughout, it discusses the thangka and its creation, as well as the iconography of the Primordial Rigden an image that fuses spiritual and temporal, sacred and secular aspects of life. It is especially helpful to Shambhala Centre visitors and other curious viewers. Topics include:

The meaning of "Rigden" (general and specific)

The Shambhala Buddhist lineage

The function of a shrine in a Shambhala Centre

The iconography of the thangka and its meaning

The making of the thangka, prints, and film