I made a research on this topic but some more info would be great!
I am transitioning from Theravada to Vajrayana, it is - after many years - a heartfelt decision that I made almost two years ago and after a lot of research. I feel a very strong connection with Sakya (and Bön) teachings and it seems that FINALLY I will have the chance to receive them: H.E. The 27th Chogye Trichen Rinchen Paljor Rinpoche is coming to my country for a cycle of teachings.
It will be a cycle of 2-day empowerments (each) - Hevajra, Vajrapani Buthadhamara + Mahakala, White Tara and 1-day for Vajrasattva.
My question:
1) It is stated on the announcement that THERE WILL BE NO COMMITMENT ON DAILY PRACTICE.
What is the difference, in "essence" and in results, between a initiation with and without commitment?
I found this on Buddha Weekly:
Could someone give me any additional details?You are only taking a practice commitment or Yidam commitment or Guru (usually all three) if you take a refuge vow, and if you take on the commitment. If you simply attend, and receive a blessing, this is not necessarily a practice initiation. In Tibet, many people attend initiations simply for the blessing, without the intention to practice.
For example, Kalachakra is a Highest Yoga Tantra. It would only be a full practice initation if you received both the initiations (all four) and then the oral practice instructions, which will also have the Sadhana to practice. If you simply attended a big event and felt moved and blessed, but received no instructions — you took a blessing, basically.