Tilopa's life is characterized by "transgressive" or unconventional behavior designed to break through religious dogma and intellectual pride.
: While he studied under several human gurus like Nagarjuna and Saryapa, Tilopa claimed his ultimate realization came directly from the primordial buddha Vajradhara . The Life of Tilopa and the Ganges Mahamudra
: After a vision from a dakini (female wisdom being), he left the monastery and spent years in menial labor. His name, "Tilopa," comes from his work as a sesame seed grinder ( Tila = sesame; pa = one who works). pa = one who works).