Receiving teachings in the Nyingma tradition unfolds through a living relationship with an authentic lineage-holder, rather than as a merely academic study. One approaches a qualified Nyingma lama—often a lineage-holding teacher recognized within an unbroken transmission—and gradually establishes a student–teacher connection through attending teachings, practicing, and demonstrating sincere motivation. This relationship is framed by taking refuge in the Three Jewels, and often the bodhisattva vows, so that the entire path rests on ethical discipline and altruistic intention. In this way, the ground is prepared for Vajrayāna methods to be introduced in a stable and responsible manner.

On that basis, the student is usually guided into foundational instructions, especially the preliminary practices known as ngöndro. These preliminaries include contemplations that turn the mind toward Dharma and structured practices that purify obscurations and accumulate merit, thereby making the mindstream more receptive to subtler teachings. Different Nyingma lineages may emphasize particular ngöndro cycles, yet the underlying purpose remains the same: to ensure that more advanced methods are not approached superficially. When a teacher sees that the student has developed sufficient grounding and commitment, more specific transmissions may be offered.

The heart of Vajrayāna transmission in Nyingma is empowerment, or wang, which confers both authorization and a living connection to a particular deity or cycle of practice. These empowerments are given in formal ceremonies, often in group settings at monasteries, retreat centers, or during special teaching events. Alongside empowerments, lamas bestow reading transmissions (lung), in which texts are read aloud to establish a lineage link, and explanatory instructions (tri), which clarify how to understand and practice what has been received. In some cases, empowerments may relate to outer tantras, while others pertain to deeper levels such as Anuyoga and Atiyoga/Dzogchen, which are generally reserved for students who are properly prepared and have explicit permission from their teacher.

Receiving such transmissions carries commitments, known as samaya, which bind teacher and student in a sacred trust. These commitments may include maintaining specific practices, upholding ethical conduct, and preserving respect for the lineage and instructions. Settings for transmission can range from large public empowerments to more private, individualized instruction, and may extend into structured retreat environments. Throughout, the emphasis remains on authentic lineage, careful preparation, and ongoing guidance, so that the blessings of the Nyingma teachings can genuinely take root and mature within the practitioner’s experience.