Cynicism and Magic Online Class

Based on a series of talks given by Chögyam Trungpa during the first session of what was to become Naropa University, Cynicism and Magic introduces key Tibetan Buddhist concepts, including karma, the structure of ego, the paramitas, and the bodhisattva.

Cynicism and Magic: Intelligence and Insight on the Buddhist Path

Based on a series of talks given by Chögyam Trungpa during the first session of what was to become Naropa University, Cynicism and Magic introduces key Tibetan Buddhist concepts, including karma, the structure of ego, the paramitas, and the bodhisattva. Employing a unique and intimate teaching style, Trungpa Rinpoche presents these concepts in a larger framework of questions we all have: What is authentic spirituality? Can I find enlightenment and freedom? How should I approach life, death, suffering, and boredom? How can I develop some discipline, patience, and sanity? Through these accessible teachings, this book will show you how to approach a living dharma with intelligence, and with a sense of openness and wonder.

The book was published in 2021 by Shambhala Publications and was the first editorial project completed by the Opening the Dharma Treasury Editors Group. The online course celebrated the publication of the book and featured many of the editors as presentors.

Learn about the online class that took place through Extended Studies at Naropa University

Watch the Book Celebration that took place

Purchase the book from Shambhala Publications

Chogyam Trungpa teaching at Naropa.
Picture taken by Hudson Shotwell.

More projects

The CT Digital Library

The Digital Library makes audio and video recordings of Chogyam Trungpa’s teachings available for all to hear and watch. Transcripts and captioning aligned with the recordings are also provided. You can browse, search, and access material in many ways.

Visit the Library Here.

CTR Transcription Project

A team of trained transcribers is completing the transcription of close to 1,000 talks never transcribed before. The team is also reviewing, digitizing and correcting older transcripts, and team members also contribute to talk and seminar descriptions for the CTR Digital Library.