Elizabeth Mattis-Namgyel

Elizabeth Mattis Namgyel has studied and practiced the Buddhadharma for over 35 years under the guidance of her root teacher Dzigar Kongtrul Rinpoche. She is the author of two books, The Power of an Open Question and The Logic of Faith. She edited two books by Dzigar Kongtrul Rinpoche, It’s Up to You and Light Comes Through, Elizabeth has taught programs throughout the world, including the USA, Latin America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand and is a teacher in Mangala Shri Bhuti. After completing a six year retreat, Kongtrul Rinpoche appointed her Retreat Master at the Samten Ling retreat center in Colorado. She holds degrees in Anthropology (BA) and Buddhist Studies (MA).

Elizabeth focuses on the Buddha’s ”middle way” teachings on interdependence and emptiness. The middle way teachings are often referred to as the wisdom aspect in Mahayana Buddhism, which elucidates the essence or view that resides at the heart of the entire path. Her teaching style displays her enthusiasm for inquiry and contemplation using contemporary language that preserves the authentic message and the transformative power of the dharma. She asks audiences to engage in the practice of open questioning with her as she takes a fresh look at the assumptions and beliefs we have about spirituality. In 2019, Elizabeth founded a secular nonprofit organization called The Middle Way Initiative to offer teachings, retreats, and conversations with her and other teachers and guests. With Anam Thubten, she is a founding member and teacher in the Wilderness Dharma Movement. Elizabeth enjoys riding her horse through the vast landscape of the San Luis Valley in Colorado.