Contents: Preface. I. Generation stage: 1. Preliminary explanation. 2. Training in the basic practices. 3. The Yoga of the Guru. 4. Bringing the three bodies into the path. 5. Checking meditation on the mandala and basis Heruka. 6. Generating the mandala and deities of the body mandala. 7. The actual generation stage meditation. 8. The concluding practices. II. Completion stage: 1. Preliminary explanation. 2. The five stages of completion stage. 3. Dedication. Appendix: I. The condensed meaning of the commentary. II. Sadhanas: 1. Essence of Vajrayana. 2. Condensed essence of Vajrayana. 3. Assembly of good fortune. 4. Heruka retreat preliminary jewel. 5. Heruka body mandala burning offering. 6. Union of no more learning. III. Diagrams and illustrations: 1. The celestial mansion. 2. Deity charts. 3. Seed-letters. 4. Ritual objects. Glossary. Bibliography. Study programmes. Index.

"Essence of Vajrayana is the first complete explanation in English to the uncommon generation stage practice of Heruka body mandala. Buddha Heruka is a manifestation of all the Buddhas' enlightened compassion, and by relying upon him we can swiftly attain a pure selfless joy and bring true happiness to others. In part one Geshe Kelsang explains with characteristic clarity and precision how we can practise the sublime visualizations of Heruka body mandala and thereby gradually transform our ordinary world and experiences into the transcendental reality of a Buddha. Then, in part two, he provides definitive instructions on the completion stage practices that lead to the supreme bliss of full englightenment in this one lifetime."