The text “Opening the Door to the Dharma: A Brief Explanation of the Essence of the Buddha’s Numerous Vehicles” by the prominent master of the 20th century Jamyang Khyentse Chokyi Lodro (‘Jam-dbyangs mKhyen-brtse Chos-kyi blo-gros, 1893-1959) presents an extensive overview of the Buddha’s teachings as organized into multiple vehicles, turnings of the wheel of Dharma and lineages, emphasizing that all are skillful means aimed at the cessation of suffering. It explains the three turnings of the wheel of Dharma as progressive methods by which the Buddha guided beings away from destructive behavior, grasping for a self-established self and all views of self-established existence. The text outlines how the Buddha’s teachings were preserved orally, later compiled into the Tripitaka and transmitted through Pali, Chinese and Tibetan canons. The three higher trainings of ethical self-discipline, concentration and discrimination (wisdom) are presented as the indispensable foundation of all Buddhist paths. A detailed explanation is given of sutra and tantra, with tantra described as a resultant vehicle that rehearses enlightenment itself. The historical development of Buddhism in Tibet is traced through the old and new translation periods and the formation of major Tibetan traditions. Particular attention is paid to the Nyingma tradition and its oral, treasure and pure-vision lineages, especially in relation to dzogchen. Finally, the text emphasizes the importance of a non-sectarian approach.