The Rimé Tradition
Rimé (pronounced ree-may) is a Tibetan word that means "without bias." It refers to a nonsectarian movement of Tibetan Buddhism that began in the 19th century. The Rimé Movement was led by Jamyang Khyentse Wangpo (1820-1892), Orgyen Chogyur Dechen Lingpa (1829-1870), and Jamgon Kongtrul Lodro Thaye (1811-1892). Rimé is an approach to spiritual practice where students are themselves rooted in one spiritual tradition while, at the same time, maintaining a respect for other approaches. Rimé honors the differences among lineages and fosters an environment of mutual support and harmony. Rimé promotes respect and knowledge of each other's traditions.
Speaking of his teacher, Jamyang Khyentse, Sogyal Rinpoche has described the Rimé Movement in this manner:
"This was a kind of spiritual renaissance, which rejected all forms of sectarian, partisan bias, encouraging each tradition to master completely the authentic teachings and practice of its own lineage, while at the same time maintaining a spirit of openness, harmony and cooperation with other Buddhist schools. There was no blurring or synthesis of one tradition with another - the purity of each was ensured - but they coexisted and often drew inspiration from one another."
The Spirit of Buddhism: The Future of Dharma in the West by Sogyal Rinpoche (Harper Books 2003).
Being of different traditions provides an opportunity for a variety of practices and teachers. Buddha Dharma and in particular the Vajrayana may not be suitable for everyone, and any particular practice is certainly not. It is the responsibility of the student to examine and select his or her own path and teacher, and for the teacher to scrutinize and tailor practices to the student. The Oklahoma Rimé does not intend to prescribe but hopes to facilitate that process.