Luminous Essence is a complete introduction to the world of tantric thought and practice. Composed by the renowned Tibetan master Jamgon Mipham (1846-1912), the text provides an overview of the Guhyagarbha Tantra, which has been a central scripture in Tibetan Buddhism for well over a thousand years. Mipham's explanation, translated here for the first time, is one of the most celebrated commentaries on this classic text. Luminous Essence is intended for initiated tantric practitioners. To fully appreciate and assimilate its message, it should be studied under the guidance of a qualified teacher by those who have received the appropriate empowerments, reading transmissions, and oral instructions. I have no doubt that practitioners of the Guhyagarbha Tantra will derive great benefit from reading and relying on this explanatory text. --His Holiness the Dalai Lama