Gephel received empowerments and instruction in the Hevajra tantra and spent four years in strict retreat, training in śamatha and vipaśyanā. He then received the full transmission of the inner instructions of the Kagyu tradition. In nine days he absorbed what Naropa had received over 12 years from Tilopa. Rechungpa, the "moon-like" disciple of Milarepa, also instructed him, principally in the Six Yogas of Naropa. His attainment in one of these -- tummo —was particularly boosted by his own natural compassion and produced rapid results. Following his teacher's instruction he then went away to meditate.