Dzogchen describes the nature of the mind as complete presence in natural, authentic pure being. This book includes five fundamental texts of this tantric path to Buddhahood: The Garland of Views, a text from the 8th century, describes the stages of the path to enlightenment. It is attributed to the great master Padmasambhava. The Flight of the Garuda, a collection of twenty-three songs of inspiration written by Shabkar Lama in the 19th century, contains precise instructions for the practice of Trekchö meditation. Emptying the Depths of Hell is a confession ritual. It comes from a treasure text (Terma) discovered by Guru Chowang in the 13th century and disseminated by Jamgon Kongtrul in the 19th century. The wish-fulfilling prayer of Kuntu Zangpo, also a treasure text, was discovered by Rigdzin Godemchen in the 14th century.