HIS HOLINESS PENOR RINPOCHE (1932-2009) was one of the most well-known Nyingma and Dzogchen masters of the twentieth century. Rinpoche was the third head of the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism and the eleventh throne-holder of the Palyul lineage. Considered an incarnation of Vimalamitra, Rinpoche received his full spiritual training in Tibet before escaping to India in 1959. He subsequently established Namdroling Monastery in Southern India and also taught extensively throughout the world. Rinpoche had many Tibetan and international students, and in the 1980s he recognized the first Western female reincarnate lama, Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo (Alyce Louise Zeoli).

ANI JINPA PALMO is a Dutch Buddhist nun who was ordained over three decades ago in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. She was the interpreter for Kyabje Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche and has translated many of his works, including Rinpoche's autobiography, Brilliant Moon. Ani currently resides in India and Nepal.