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Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, is the emanation of the Buddha Amitabha, who embodies the indestructible speech of all the tathagatas.

In the pollen heart of a multicolored lotus, on an island in a lake, a golden vajra marked with the syllable HRIH appeared from the heart of Amitabha. From it emanated an eight-year old boy, who was adorned with the major and minor marks, holding a vajra and a lotus. The boy, Padmasambhava, remained there teaching the profound doctrine to the gods and to the dakinis of the island.

Having studied all the sutras, tantras, and sciences under the many scholars and accomplished masters of India, Padmasambhava became a powerful yogi. Because of his skills and accomplishments he was invited to bring Buddhism to Tibet.

Through many different emanations Padmasambhava was able to subdue the obstructing forces, bringing all beings under his sway. Subdued by his splendor, demons and obstructers became protectors of the holy teachings.

"He is the glorious buddha, lotus-born possessing the store of all-knowing pristine cognition, a king displaying various magical feats. The great one endowed with the Buddha's gnostic mantras."