Kechara Visits Findhorn!

Dec 4, 2014 | Views: 720

Many of my close students know that I admire Findhorn… a spiritual community, education centre and eco-village located in Scotland. It was founded in 1962 by 3 people (Eileen Caddy, Peter Caddy and Dorothy Maclean), and now they have a community of 400 people living there!

Those within the community abide by their 3 founding principals: deep inner listening (and acting from that source of wisdom), co-creation with the intelligence of nature and service to the world… and from there, they have developed into a spiritual, conscious community.

Their eco-village was recognized by the United Nations when they were awarded UN Habitat Best Practice designation, from the United Nations Centre for Human Settlements (HABITAT). How wonderful! One of the things that I admire so much about Findhorn is their ability to self-sustain… they grow their own fresh produce for the consumption of their own community. I found that to be an inspiring concept, and advised our Green Team to do the same at Kechara Forest Retreat.

For the past 1.5 years, the Green Team has been very, very dedicated with beautifying Kechara Forest Retreat with various flora and fauna. They also started an organic farm where they plant different types of herbs, fruits and vegetables! I love how the Green Team worked consistently and harmoniously in order to achieve all of this. They gradually, through planning and learning on-the-go, managed to create a place for retreatants to practice Dharma comfortably. How kind…

Seeing how dedicated they were, I thought that they should experience Findhorn first-hand. They would be able to witness and learn so much more from those at Findhorn… as compared to reading books about the place. So the Green Team, consisting of Pastor Chia, Li Kheng and Julia traveled to Scotland to stay at Findhorn for 5 days. I rejoice that they could visit this spiritual community and at the same time bring back so much valuable knowledge with them to Kechara Forest Retreat.

Below is a wonderful write up by the Green Team about their stay in Findhorn. Thank you, Green Team for your continuous and dedicated work in KFR, and for sharing your wonderful experience in Findhorn through this detailed and well-written article.

Tsem Rinpoche

 


 

A Pilgrimage to Findhorn

By Pastor Chia, Julia & Li Kheng

The journey started on 18 September 2014 when Tsem Rinpoche sent a message advising the Green Team to visit Findhorn, one of the spiritual spaces whose culture and essence Kechara Forest Retreat aspire to integrate into the our Conscious Community.

In the past 1 ½ year, The Green Team focused on learning about landscaping, natural farming, soil improvement and reforestation. As Dharma work is about consistent learning, nurturing the capacity to do more and personal growth, it is time for the Green Project to enter its next chapter of development, which is to create an ability to transform the intangible energy and sanctity of our Earth into tangible experiences for spiritual aspirants.

Setting a clear and meaningful motivation forms the foundation for a successful pilgrimage. The team got together and established that our purpose of embarking on this journey is to learn about the success factors of an international spiritual sanctuary like Findhorn so that we are able to determine its motto and effectively bring it back to Kechara Forest Retreat and benefit the community in the region and beyond.

 

The journey begins…

Findhorn is a famous destination with many available and convenient modes of access and transportation. One convenient route will be to take a flight from Kuala Lumpur International Airport to Inverness via Charles De Gaulle in Paris (city of transit depends on airline). The stretch between Kuala Lumpur and Paris is 13 hours while the journey from Paris to Inverness is about 1.5 hours. From Inverness, which is 25 miles from Findhorn, a £50 taxi ride would be the most direct and convenient way to reach Findhorn. However, bus rides or trains are available but their routes end at their respective stations at Forres, the nearest town, from which a taxi or private car will have to be arranged to arrive at Findhorn Foundation & Community. Findhorn Foundation management (enquiries@findhorn.org) provides information of community members who offer transport services from Inverness Airport (about £40) or Forres bus and train stations (about £10).

When we arrived at Findhorn, it was dark and the administrative offices were closed. However, the hotel we stayed at, Findhorn Bay Holiday Park’s management (www.findhornbayholidaypark.com / info@findhornbayholidaypark.com) provides an emergency (ONLY) number for 24 hours assistance (Tel. No.: 07708 408 397)

 

Reception Hours of Findhorn Bay Holiday Park:

Summer (1 April to 31 October)
Monday – Friday: 8.30am – 12.30pm and 2.00pm – 6.00pm
Saturday: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Sunday (July & August only): 10.00am – 4.00pm
Winter (1 November to 31 March)
Monday – Friday: 9.00am – 1.00pm
Saturday & Sunday: Closed

 

The Management Office of Findhorn Bay Holiday Park

The caravan lodging at Findhorn Bay Holiday Park

The caravan lodging at Findhorn Bay Holiday Park

 

The Eco-chalet lodging at the Findhorn Bay Holiday Park

The Eco-chalet lodging at the Findhorn Bay Holiday Park; This could be a more comfortable living arrangement for the cold season especially for travellers who are not accustomed to the freezing climate.

Other logistic information that is useful for Findhorn visitors are:

  • Food and Beverage services:
    1. Blue Angel Café is a conscious food retailer that operates at the Universal Hall (about 120m from the Visitor Center). The food menu includes hot soups, pies, sandwiches and cakes & pastries with sufficient vegetarian and vegan options while the beverage offerings range from hot coffee and tea to organic canned drinks and fresh juices. The café opens daily from 10.00am to 5.00pm. Cash and international credit cards are accepted modes of payment.

      The outdoor of Blue Angel Café

    2. There are 2 restaurants (The Kimberly and The Crown) and 2 cafes (The Bakehouse and The Captain Table) located in Findhorn Village, which is walking distance from Findhorn Foundation.
    3. Kinloss Chinese take away is available a phone call away at (01309) 690 439 and a copy of the menu is available at the Findhorn Bay Holiday Park for reference.
  • Convenience store:
    1. The Phoenix is the local convenient store that is opposite the Visitor Center. It offers an extensive range of fresh and packaged organic food products and is vegetarian friendly with some vegan selections. Additionally, there is stock of household goods like detergents, toiletries, books and souvenirs. Cash and international credit cards are accepted modes of payment.
    2. The store opens daily with the following operating hours:
      • Monday to Friday: 10.00am to 6.00pm
      • Saturday: 10.00am to 5.00pm
      • Sunday: 11.00am to 5.00pm
    3. Premier is the store at Findhorn Village with a cash machine (ATM) that offers a selection of groceries and some household items.

 

The Phoenix convenience store is a local hang out where community members often cross path and share information. At the entrance, there are ample posters and flyers with updated information of activities and events in Findhorn and the surrounding towns

The fresh produce from Cullerne Garden, which is the land on which Findhorn does its farming (more information below). It feels good to buy local because such a simple gesture accumulates and contribute to reducing our carbon footprint.

 

Our First Day

Witnessing the ethereal of Findhorn at the first break of dawn

The following morning started beautifully with the most breathtaking sunrise although the air was already very brisk for autumn at about 2°C. The temperature rises as the sunray warms the atmosphere to about 10-15°C around mid afternoon. We spent the first morning roaming the infamous gardens of Findhorn on our own. Although winter was just around the corner, the gardens of Findhorn depict a sense of ethereal, charisma and, most of all, harmony. We later learn that this wholesome experience that the Findhorn gardens embody derives from the principal of humbly facilitating Mother Nature do her work. The Findhorn community respects the ways of nature and believe that, as residents of this home, our Earth, our work is to learn from her and assist enhance her rejuvenation to provide us all that we need in abundance. R. Ogilvie Crombie speaks about being in partnership with nature gods and spirits such as Pan and fauns to create flourishing and sustainable environments in “The Elemental Kingdom”; DVDs are available in the Findhorn Archive Publications for £10. Mr. Crombie used the collaboration between man and nature gods in Findhorn as an example of a success case study in his presentation. Another factor that contributes to the success of Findhorn is the community who embraces and practices the guiding principals of the foundation in their everyday life.

The gateway to finding peace with nature

This path leads to the Nature Sanctuary where spiritual activities from Taize singing to meditation are conducted. At the Quiet Garden, one can enter a short silent retreat in the healing space amidst trees flowers, fresh air and sunlight.

The enchanting space is alit by the early morning sun, exuding a gentle yet distinct sense of calm and delight

Instead of a concrete skyline of the city, Findhorn glees our sight with an gorgeous array of colors and shapes from trees

As we walk out of the Quiet Garden feeling revitalized, we are greeted with this message

Garden landscaping at the Eco-village is the combined creation of community members.

There is an exotic range of garden styles from species to display starting with this more traditional northern European arrangement that uses low shrubs with compact leaves that better withstand the cold climate.

With greater exposure to sunlight, this home boasts a lush garden that gives a more tropical feel with palms and tall, lush shrubs

This is the favorite arrangement with its attractive purple flowers

An artistic arrangement on rocks with a variety of cactus plants

A spacious yet inviting garden that has an open grass-walking path with lush shrubs and tall trees lining each side

Gardens come in all forms and, here at Findhorn, we witness a creative mini garden arrangement inside an unused wheelbarrow and some pretty blossoms planted in stone planter boxes

In the afternoon, we went for a Findhorn Tour that starts at 2.00pm every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from the Visitor Center with a fee of £8 per person. Our guide, Richard, told us about the founding of Findhorn by The Caddy Family together with Dorothy Maclean. Richard took us to visit the Original Garden where the 3 founding members followed the guidance of the “little voice” Eileen hears through meditation and planted a phenomenal garden with the notorious 40 lbs cabbage. It is reported that specialists from different parts of the world came to witness this miracle and conducted a series of test to determine how such a lush garden can grow under the most impossible conditions. None of the men of science could come up with a logical explanation or provide a conclusion. Other landmarks of Findhorn Foundation include The Nature Sanctuary & Silent Garden, The Flower Nursery, Universal Hall, Community Center, Meditation Sanctuary and Eco Village. Each location has a story that adds depth and significance to the visitors.

The common element between every story told in Findhorn is love, care, pride and engagement from the community, which gives warmth and heartbeat to the entire space. For example, the architect of the iconic Universal Hall Mr. George Ripley, lives in Findhorn and views this building a being alive and ever evolving. He was quoted: “The work in Universal Hall is never finished…” implying that Findhorn and all within, continue to grow and evolve. It was also heartwarming to see features like garden benches in the gardens that are dedicated in loving memories of late community members. Through these sincere gestures and personal contributions, Findhorn will always have a special place in the hearts of its community within the foundation as well as those who have moved beyond. It is advisable for visitors to join the tour because there are “hidden” landmarks that must not be missed and the moving stories available in every nook and corner is what makes this space Findhorn.

Please watch this video on the Findhorn Original Garden:

 

Richard, one of the early community members, was the tour guide who shared the history, present and future-vision of Findhorn in detail and nostalgia

The Nature Sanctuary where Taize singing ceremony is held every morning. The space can also be used for other activities upon prior arrangement

Special garden furniture strategically placed in gardens for people to rest, relax and admire the scenery. Some pieces are sponsored in memory of loved ones who were members of the Findhorn community

 

Day 2 and not counting

After getting a general bearing of the layout in Findhorn, Pastor Chia, Julia and I spent our second day getting involved with the community and scheduled activities. The first thing we did was joining the morning session meditation in a room that the community calls Sanctuary. A facilitator who leads the session indicates the start and end of each session with a quote from Eileen Caddy (or other inspiring quotes) accompanied by the ring of a singing bowl. Each session lasts for 20 minutes and there are 2 sessions each day (morning: 8.30am-9.00am; afternoon: 5.40pm-6.00pm). Every member of the Findhorn community places great importance in the daily meditation, following the example of their founding members. At the age of 94 years old, Dorothy Maclean, continues to meditate religiously daily in the Sanctuary whether rain or shine. We had the honor of meditating with Ms. Maclean on the morning of 16 October 2014.

This is the Findhorn Sanctuary where daily meditation is conducted. Signage is clearly labeled to protect the calm and quiet ambience of the vicinity and its surrounding. People are even notified to “Walk your bicycles” around this area.

Besides silence in the daily meditations, visitors and course participants also engage in short silent walking meditations inside the Findhorn’s Quiet Garden.

As emphasized above, the sense of community is very strong at Findhorn and everyone is happy to host and help visitors get around. In conversation with Richard our guide who introduced us to his friend, Keith, we mentioned that we would like to visit the Communications Office as Tsem Rinpoche has been in correspondence with them and sent a few Dharma gifts in appreciation for the work and impact created by The Findhorn Foundation. Keith immediately offered to escort us to the office that was near The Phoenix store. Upon introducing ourselves as students of Tsem Rinpoche from Kechara House, Sandra who works in the Communications Office immediately recollects a letter bearing gifts from Rinpoche that was couriered to them in 2013. She retrieved the letter that “just happened” to be on her colleagues table and showed us the Lama Tsongkapa tsatsa that she and each of her colleagues keep on their work desk. The Lama Tsongkapa thangka was presented to the educational meeting room. We also saw the Lama Tsongkapa statue, which is a gift previously presented to the foundation by Rinpoche in year 2011 that was respectfully placed on a shelf overlooking the office. Sandra was curious about the work we do. So, we shared about Kechara Forest Retreat and the blog (www.tsemrinpoche.com) that has touched 4.7 million viewers from around the world. When we headed to the education meeting room to visit the Lama Tsongkapa thangka, we bumped into Jason Caddy, grandson of Peter and Eileen Caddy who was renovating the room. We shared Rinpoche’s deep respect and appreciation for the principals of Findhorn with Jason who was moved that Findhorn have such a strong support in a different corner of the world.

Sandra of the Communications Office who showed us her Lama Tsongkapa tsatsa who was seated right next to her computer screen. It is wonderful that the blessed gifts of Tsem Rinpoche touches and protects these dedicated individuals of Findhorn on a daily basis

The Lama Tsongkapa thangka is reverently placed in the Legacy Room with a letter from Tsem Rinpoche carefully framed next to it

Legacy is a space where people gather to create a legacy with Mother Nature. The building is ecologically sustainable and has been the space in which impactful projects are conceptualized and implemented

From left to right: Keith (who hosted us in Findhorn), Julia, Jason Caddy and Pastor Chia. Jason is grandson to Peter and Eileen Caddy and up to this point, he works hands-on with the community with focus on ecological structural design and implementations

In the late morning, we visited Findhorn College on Cluny Hill. The hotel building that Peter and Eileen Caddy worked in was bought over by them in 1975 and converted into a learning center as Findhorn started attracting thousands of people from different parts of the world. Findhorn College offers holistic educational courses that promote sustainability and personal empowerment. The course selection that is especially designed by Sustainable Development Program Coordinators like Dr. Rehema White of the University of St. Andrews include English classes, training in synergizing social, ecological and economic skills as well as an Undergraduate & Post Graduate program given in collaboration with academic partners in Scotland and North America (for more information: admin@findhorncollege.org or +44 (0) 1309 690806).

The exterior of Findhorn College at Cluny Hill

Students lounge area

The Sanctuary for daily meditation at Findhorn College

The activity board at Findhorn College

In the afternoon, we went for a tour of the Living Machine, which is an ecological sewage treatment system developed by Dr. John Todd at Living Technologies Ltd. in Massachusetts, America (for more information: awalker@findhorn.org or ecovillage@findgorn.org). This sewage system mirrors the decomposition process in the natural world with enhancement by adding in the greenhouse effect to bring the temperature to 8°C. Inside the large tanks that are built underground, there is a complex and natural ecosystem of bacteria, algae, snail, shrimps and numerous species of plants that interact with each other to transform sewage water into European “bathing grade” water. The machine in Findhorn Foundation has a loading capacity of approximately 65 cubic meter of waste water a day, which equates to about 330 persons.

The biggest surprise about this ecological system is: Contrary to common belief, it is less costly than the traditional design and structure. Being environmentally sustainable is a comprehensive approach beyond planting beautiful gardens and farms. Being ecologically conscious involves the correct approach to waste management and optimizing our natural resources with proper application of the most suitable system, which is one that accurately reflect the works of Mother Nature.

A tour of The Living Machine where man creates a balance between technologies with an environmentally sustainable approach

Please watch Living Machine:

In the evening, we were invited to dinner with the community at the Community Center in celebration of a successful summit they recently hosted where societal leaders from various parts of the world gathered to discuss and create new movements forward that is in alignment with our human nature, which is in synergy with the Earth and all its elements. At dinner, we met with game changers like George Ripley, the architect of the Universal Hall and Alan Watson, the founder of the Tree for Life that reforested 1 million trees to restore the Caledonian forest of Scotland. We shared that the Green Project at Kechara Forest Retreat is also running a Sponsor A Tree campaign to replace the trees felled for the construction of our retreat. Our enthusiasm despite the inexperience impressed Mr. Watson who generously shared his knowledge and advise on reforestation with “like minded people from different parts of the world”. As we got to the know community better, a few of the members started inquiring more about Kechara and Buddhist philosophies because visits from Buddhist practitioners are still relatively rare. It was such a delight and honor to be able to share Tsem Rinpoche’s teachings halfway across the globe with a diverse community in one of the most spiritual spaces in the world, Findhorn. This is a powerful manifestation of tangible interfaith, intercultural and inter-race harmony, learning and growth.

Other wholesome activities visitors can do a Findhorn include:

  • Visit the weaving workshop where there is a 150 years old 600-thread machine.
  • Join dance classes in the studios at the basement of Universal Hall
  • Enjoy performances in the Universal Hall that nurtured collaboration with The Touring Network presenting “the very best performers from across Scotland and beyond” (www.thetouringnetwork.com). Besides long-term artist partners, Findhorn also host one-off performances by international sensations who are invited to perform in renowned venue like Carnagie Hall.
  • Visit the Findhorn Pottery to support a local eco-craft that sell handmade ceramic items. Bespoke or commissioned pieces can be especially created upon request with provision of at least 30 days advanced notice.
  • Volunteer at the organic farm in Cullerne Garden, which is about 5 to 10 minutes walk from the Findhorn Foundation along the road towards Findhorn Village.
  • Help cook at the community center that serves about 100 to 150 people per meal. The Community kitchen serves a range of healthy cuisine using recipes from all over the world.

Please note that to participate in volunteer work, visitors must join the 7 days experiential week to comply with local Labor regulations or obtain a long-stay status from respective authorities.

 

Three is a charm

The Findhorn spirit is contagious. By our third day in the community, we began to feel at home. It is hopeful that empowering to be within the embrace of a community that upholds humane principals of living that is similar to those taught by Rinpoche and that we are benchmarking to create in the pioneer community of Kechara Forest Retreat. This morning started earlier than usual as we joined the Taize Singing group in the Nature Sanctuary that is scheduled daily from 8.00am to 8.30am. Taize Singing is a culture from Burgundy, France and was founded by the Christian monastic community in 1940. The strong sense of unity of the Findhorn community is reflected in the clear and beautiful harmony in the group’s singing. Pastor Chia explained that the possibility for the 3 of us, newcomers, to blend in perfectly and immediately without prepping or instruction is a reflection of the evident community spirit that swiftly aligns everyone in the space.

The serene space inside the often-featured Findhorn Nature Sanctuary

During a Taize session, participants are allocated seat based on their voice character, i.e. soprano, alto and bass. The domed ceiling facilitates the voices to travel and merge with good balance and lively synchronization.

At mid-morning, the three of us went to the Cullerne Garden where the farm has moved to when the community grew. The access to the garden is through the main road to Findhorn Village, which is a 10 minutes walk from the Visitor Center. As we entered the farm, we saw a group of volunteers doing maintenance work like weeding on a patch of lettuce. As winter is approaching, there is limited crops being grown but we saw how the farm team prepares the soil to rest over the cold season. We saw the rich, dark and aerated soil of the farm ground that is perfect for abundant quality harvests. However, the soil around the dune countryside of Findhorn is known to be of low quality as sand is commonly said to contain little nutrients.

Therefore, besides the continued collaboration with nature spirits, composting is key to nurturing grounds that is rich. There are a few piles of compost on the farm, each at different stages of maturity and we observed that the materials used for making the compost are waste from crops, cut grass and other dried raw material from the area, fundamentally, no natural material goes to waste at Findhorn. Besides composting, we learn to use natural methods to prevent entry of pests and intrusive elements like wind. For example, we can plant thick hedge shrubs that act as natural barrier to small animals and wind or introduce thorny plants around the border of the farm to deter animals as well as snakes from entry. In summary, the approach of the Findhorn farm is to utilize the wisdom of nature that has a sustainable balance to optimize Mother Nature’s ability to provide all her inhabitants sufficiently and ultimately, abundantly.

Please watch Chris’ sharing on farming:

In this video, Chris from Newbold House who has been farming for more than 28 years of his life shares his passion about farming and food production. He has done organic farming before going to work at Findhorn Foundation. Currently, he is with the Newbold House community. Chris speaks in more detail about working with respect to and in harmony with Nature’s way whether one is applying organic farming or permaculture. He also shared an interesting story of a Brazilin community that went from the conventional way of farming (without use of any chemicals) to food forest approach to supplying their society with food. Chris ended with some tricks of the trade that we will apply in Kechara Forest Retreat to optimize our farm production.

Volunteers working leisurely at Cullerne Garden on a bed of lettuce. The soil is visibly rich through the consistent effort of composting and working in collaboration with Mother Nature

With dropping temperatures, most of the crops are planted inside greenhouses

Diversity in crop selection is applied to increase the general health of the farm as diversity better replicates the natural character of the ecosystem. One of the key ailments to our food production industry in the practice of monoculture that depletes our land of its nutrients and creates an environment that is susceptible to attack from pest and diseases as complimenting plants are absent.

Adding some flower plants in between the vegetables is also a good “distraction” for pests to protect the crop

A Buddha image is present inside one of the greenhouse and this depicts the Findhorn philosophy of blending tangible technology and intelligence with intangible spiritual guidance and blessing

Compost, compost, compost! The mantra of the farmers at Cullerne Garden. This is the foundation on which abundant crops are produced and beautiful flowerbeds sprout the most exquisite and vibrant of blossoms

The “Grandfather Tree” at Cullerne Garden. Findhorn is not a space defined by function; there is a blend of forest, garden, farm and lifestyle in every space…just as it is in life

Later that day, we adventured into the Eco Village again. This time, more leisurely with observe how the village is put together and identify environmental ideas that are implemented and phased in slowly to ensure sustainability. As Richard, our guide from Day 1 share, the eco chalets were slowly introduced to replace the caravans because they were more ecological in design, construction and operation. From this point, I learn that sustainability is not about being backward, old fashioned or primal. On the contrary, we realize that green living and wholesome lifestyles arise from the implementation of advanced technologies and application of forward-thinking ways of innovation so as to foster a good relationship with our Earth.

It takes intelligence to identify and emulate the sophisticated, comprehensive and intricate system that flows through every aspect of nature. It requires even great wisdom to develop a formula to empower the system to be replicated by any and many communities all over the world with enthusiastic ownership and sincere choice of responsibility. It is also awesome that the eco efforts in the Eco Village span from simple matters to large-scale projects of significant impact. For example, a simple but impactful effort is the development of sedums that better retain water and grow on less soil to replace common grass for rooftop patches so as to reduce construction material requirement, which further reducing carbon footprint.

In the meantime, an example of Findhorn’s large-scale project would be the building of an in-house biomass boiler to produce energy locally to power the community. The boiler burns wood chips from fallen trees or by-products of wood manufacturers and the only waste is methane, which the development team is working on putting to better use. The Eco Village is fundamentally a living community to learns, improves and evolves to make sustainable lifestyle dynamic, exciting and admirable.

Please watch the brief sharing about the history behind the building of Findhorn’s whiskey barrel buildings:

This is one of the newer eco-chalet at Findhorn Foundation. It is eye opening to witness sustainability to be comfortable, aesthetically attractive and economical

The dining hall of the Community Center

The cylindrical pillars that hold the roof of the building along the perimeter are made from re-used telegraph polls that became obsolete as the telecommunications infrastructure advanced. There is so much around us that can tease our ability to innovate. All we need to do is remind ourselves to be effortful and think out of the box.

The biomass boiler that is located next to Universal Hall at Findhorn Foundation

The woodchips used to fuel the biomass burner

Recycling has become the code of conduct at Findhorn

Provision of sorting bins for different recyclable materials are conveniently provided within the vicinity to encourage the community to embrace this sustainable practice

Sedums are planted on the roofs of some buildings as the are good insulators to moderate extreme weather conditions

Being environmentally sustainable is a way of life

Individual households harvest rainwater in simple ways. The collected water is used in the gardens and farms because it is rich in natural and local microorganism that adds to the richness of the grounds

Please watch a brief video about our experience about Findhorn’s activities and ecological efforts:

One of the activities Pastor Chia, Julia and I enjoyed in Findhorn is the bonding time we share when preparing a home cooked meal. Being in a wholesome environment is a good opportunity to break away from the usual convenient option to eat out. As we enjoyed the cooking-together we did during our retreats in Kechara Forest Retreat, we thought this was a fun yet meaningful activity we can practice in Findhorn as well. In routine living, we get busied with activities and take people we are close to for granted. A pilgrimage is the chance to get in touch as we cooked the fresh produce harvested locally from the Cullerne Farm. At the cooking sessions, we reflected on the things we saw and heard to internalize the observation and learning as well as share ideas, opinions and work plans in a calm and conducive environment.

Besides a well-equipped kitchenette, The Findhorn Bay Holiday Park’s Eco Chalet provides a laundry machine (detergent and outdoor drying racks are provided), a comfortable living area, a common toilet and bath and living arrangement that can accommodate 6 people with a queen bed master bedroom, a second twin sharing bedroom and a sofa bed that fits 2 (bed linens and bath towels provided).

Learning in the Kechara community is interactive and fun: cooking together in our Findhorn Eco-chalet

The twin sharing room

The master bedroom

The living area with a balcony on the left

The kitchenette

 

Day 4 expands beyond Findhorn

Being in Findhorn is a real treat and we thank Rinpoche for the guidance that is always aimed at providing a powerful learning opportunity and exposure. True enough, it is the first time for all of us to be on pilgrimage in a spiritual and green destination where the synergy of spiritual energies, nature and humanity merge effectively. Therefore, besides the photos taken on 3 cameras, the greedy green team decided to take a few videos to capture the work that the community accomplished. So, in the morning of our fourth day, we visited a few feature locations to take videos with brief narration of explanation. As we walked around looking for suitable sites, we savored the natural surrounding that was so beautiful, peaceful and in symphony with happy members of the community. Julia asked if I ever visited a more beautiful space in my life… my respond: There have been more beautiful environments but they lag in splendor as they lacked that energy that pulls every element together in perfect synergy.

At noon, we prepared lunch for our new friend, Keith, who has been a very kind and hospitable host. After lunch, Keith took us to Newbold House that is about 10 to 15 minutes drive away. Newbold House is another community that lives on 7 acres of land and bases its activities around nature like gardening and farming and spiritual wellness like massage therapy, personal development workshops and meditation sessions. Chris was our host who gave us a tour of the building that maintained the traditional Scottish architectural structure so as to preserve the beauty of classical architecture. He also introduced us to the workshops they conduct at Newbold House, which is not as matured as that of Findhorn because the community is still relatively young.

The program coordinators are also open to tailor-making programs to meet specific needs of individual guests and groups to a maximum of 22 persons at one time. Chris explains that the Newbold community keeps close contact with the Findhorn family as the vision, commitment and effort to promote spiritual sanctity, respect for cultural diversity, ecological sustainability and economic integrity is challenging and the more communities are born, the greater the potential for these tenets of living to flourish.

Newbold House is formed in this building of traditional Scottish architecture

As Forrest Gump’s famous line states: Life is like a box of chocolate, you never quite know what you are going to get

Hugo who teaches and practices the piano at Newbold House treated Pastor Chia, Julia and me to a live performance. It seems that the generosity and courage to pursue passion of the community has expanded beyond Findhorn, showing us that, with consistent and sincere effort, a way of living can grow and inspire surrounding communities to also embrace the same virtues

This little peace cove is in the middle of the Newbold House farm

Spaces are not limited to their functions but evolve and expand with the lives of the individuals, friends and families within those spaces. A farm need not only be rows and rows of crops but a beautiful arrangement of crop beds, charming gardens and artistic sculptures that comes together as a home where people live their day.

Please watch Honey harvesting:

Our busy bees are key players in the natural ecosystem of nature and it is said that they are good indicators of the health of our environment. The activities of man in the name of development have impacted the bee community of our world in a negative manner. At Newbold House, Martin shares his experience with supporting 4 bee communities build new nests while respectfully collaborating with them to harvest the honey they produce

 

Our last day at Findhorn

The days passed by quickly and we got to enjoy being in the community spirit of Findhorn. However, we were also ready to return home because there were so many useful lessons we learnt and wanted to put to the test at Kechara Forest Retreat. To bring our journey to a close with clarity as well as preamble us into action, Pastor Chia, Julia and I summarized the Findhorn experience into 3 core aspects, which are their iconic gardens and farms, their dynamism with ecology commitment and technology and, last but not least, their sensitivity and respect to the unity of spirituality in each and everyone of us with our universe.

The gardens and farm of Findhorn is vibrant, lush and made-with-love. I believe there are grander and more exquisite gardens in other parts of the world, but I have yet to visit a garden that clearly embodies a lively sense of harmony between man and the environment like Findhorn. Through observation, the secret ingredient to Findhorn’s gardens and farm is the philosophy of the founders that holds true to learning from nature to create the best results, which is refreshing compared to the common and arrogant notion that “we know better”. This philosophy forms a strong foundation on which the growth and expansion of Findhorn builds on.

The principals of Findhorn is incorporated everywhere. This bench is carved with the statement: “Expect abundance on every level”

“Stop Worrying” read the red sign at this crossroad. This may be a good advice to remember when we approach the crossroads of our lives

The is the “Love Shack” at Cullerne Garden where people can take a break from farm work and enjoy the surrounding while learning about love


Environmental sustainability is a growing trend in recent years with a growing population of like-minded individuals and increasing availability of reliable information as well as abundant product and services that make being ecological convenient. However, Findhorn started this lifestyle 52 years ago when environmental consciousness or green technology was unheard of and, unfortunately, unpopular. As the one of the pioneers of this cause, Findhorn has established a respectable reputation for its consistent and effective application of green technology and intelligence garnering accreditation from international institutions like the Stockholm Environmental Institute for being a community with the lowest recorded ecological footprint in the industrialized world.

The approach to developing a sustainable use and renewal of natural resources at Findhorn is dynamic with creativity, innovation and humility. The community is creative to optimize the value of our Earth’s resources and responds innovatively to solve environmental issues with existing technology as well as appreciates and adopts successful ideas of others for the sake of preserving our world for future generations. Findhorn is also not shy to acknowledge the importance of economic benefits to fuel the success of ecological ideas and projects. It is this type of green attitude that create awareness to this subject and will propel it into mainstream practice in the near future.

Please watch this video sharing the overall experience of community Spirit at Findhorn:

It is not just the breathtaking scenery, beautiful gardens and abundant crops that make Findhorn the epitome spiritual learning center, it is the culture and spirit of the organization that bonds everything together with great positive synergy that create the Findhorn magic. The expansion of Findhorn from the original caravan park to a community of about 22 acres to an international destination for spiritual and wholesome learning of almost 500 acres* is a tangible reflection that such a product, service and space is needed and wanted.

Today, Findhorn consists of:

  1. The Findhorn Foundation that stands on 22 acres of land
  2. Findhorn Holiday Park & Living Machine that occupies about 10 acres
  3. The Dunes that is an animal sanctuary, which is approximately 300 acres in size. A fraction of the land is developed with Eco-homes, while majority grounds are dedicated to grow a natural habitat for surrounding faunas
  4. Findhorn Eco-village, which is about 20 acres
  5. Traigh Bhan – Isle of Iona, which is a retreat home on an island on the west coast of Scotland and a renowned pilgrimage destination
  6. Findhorn College (the hotel in which Peter & Eileen Caddy worked) at Cluny Hill that is a 30 acres development

The growing awareness for the need of synergy between environmental sustainability, social harmony and spiritual growth is an indication of the potential and contribution of Kechara Forest Retreat. With leading and exemplary communities like Findhorn paving the way, we at Kechara Forest Retreat will one day provide a haven for more and more guests and visitors from all over the world. We thank Tsem Rinpoche for this wonderful opportunity to learn experientially whereby we are able to effectively create a sanctuary for physical and transcendent healing, growth and ultimately enlightenment, a heaven on Earth.

We know that we are making progress in our Dharma journey when friendship is one of the results of our effort and commitment (photo taken at Findhorn Eco-village on a sunny afternoon filled with study)

We know that we are making progress in our Dharma journey when friendship is one of the results of our effort and commitment (photo taken at Findhorn Eco-village on a sunny afternoon filed study)

Please support us so that we can continue to bring you more Dharma:

If you are in the United States, please note that your offerings and contributions are tax deductible. ~ the tsemrinpoche.com blog team

9 Responses to Kechara Visits Findhorn!

DISCLAIMER IN RELATION TO COMMENTS OR POSTS GIVEN BY THIRD PARTIES BELOW

Kindly note that the comments or posts given by third parties in the comment section below do not represent the views of the owner and/or host of this Blog, save for responses specifically given by the owner and/or host. All other comments or posts or any other opinions, discussions or views given below under the comment section do not represent our views and should not be regarded as such. We reserve the right to remove any comments/views which we may find offensive but due to the volume of such comments, the non removal and/or non detection of any such comments/views does not mean that we condone the same.

We do hope that the participants of any comments, posts, opinions, discussions or views below will act responsibly and do not engage nor make any statements which are defamatory in nature or which may incite and contempt or ridicule of any party, individual or their beliefs or to contravene any laws.

  1. Pastor Elena Khong Jean Ai on Apr 4, 2016 at 4:54 am

    Somewhere at the back of my mind, I always wanted to live in a commune type situation so when I first learned about Findhorn as a teenager, it sounded perfect for me – located in the UK where the weather is nice, in a situation where everyone gets along and is free to express their spirituality and their minds. It sounded like a veritable utopia.

    As a teenager, what I didn’t realise or understand was Findhorn is a place made special by the people living there. Along the way, they had difficulties, some things worked, some things didn’t work, and they learned as they went along. What bound them together was a shared vision of what they want to accomplish.

    What also makes them work is that they live and breath their ethos. Every aspect is incredibly well thought out to be cohesive with their central beliefs of deep inner listening and co-creation with the intelligence of nature and service to the world. Basically, it’s living a life that’s harmonious with their environment and nature, and in harmony with their inner voice / conscience. And they practise mutual respect for one another, mixed with a healthy dose of curiosity and openness about other people’s faiths.

    So anywhere can be a Findhorn. What it takes is a community of committed, likeminded people to make it work. By people like Pastor Chia, Julia and Li Kheng going there to learn firsthand what they can about Findhorn, it sets the ball rolling for us to make Kechara Forest Retreat our very own Findhorn. After all, it takes commitment to go that far to learn some things, which is the same commitment that is needed to make Kechara Forest Retreat become a sustainable conscious community lasting long into the future. And who knows, in the future, maybe we can write a blog post called “Findhorn Visits Kechara!” 🙂

  2. Pastor Moh Mei on Dec 30, 2015 at 9:28 pm

    To start something is not always hard but to sustain what we have started and to continue to evolve to something greater and better, that requires hard work, commitment, care and wisdom.

    The United Nations Human Settlements Programme, UN-HABITAT, is the United Nations agency for human settlements. It is mandated by the UN General Assembly to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities with the goal of providing adequate shelter for all. Over the years, Findhorn evolved and progressed to this level of recognition by abiding to 3 founding principals: deep inner listening (and acting from that source of wisdom), co-creation with the intelligence of nature and service to the world.

    We can create and write many beautiful, inspiring goals and principles but what is more important is being able to abide to them. To be successful sometimes you only need one principle. The key to success is not to use any principles as a boundary but use them as the foundation.

    Findhorn sets an example in how to create a successful sustainable conscious community not by what they have but by how they achieved it.

  3. JP on Dec 19, 2015 at 11:57 pm

    Thank you Pastor Chia, Likheng and Julia for sharing with us your experience in Findhorn. The entire estate although modest is filled with love and passion. Every part of the estate is carefully thought through and facilities set up to help us connect to mother nature that heals and soothes our mind.

    The message written on signages all over the property are thought provoking and helps us think deeper. There are so many distractions in the city that we seldom take the time to inner reflect and nurture the spirit in us.

    Findhorn is a wonderful sanctuary to do this. It also teaches us to co-exist with mother nature in harmony and embrace loving kindness regardless of labels. When this happens, vegetables grow bigger, plants are more vibrant and people become more at peace.

    On a spiritual aspect, the founders communicated with nature spirits who taught them how to plants in harsh conditions and had amazing harvests that defy science. As Buddhists, we do not take refuge in them but co-exist harmoniously with them.

  4. Carmen on Jan 21, 2015 at 11:21 pm

    This looks fantastic, it is so beautiful. I know in time, Kechara Forest Retreat will offer the same to Malaysians and visitors from around the world, instilling a sense of spirituality within each visitor inspired by Buddhist principles and educating everyone on Global Warming and the likes.

    Thank you Green Team for the informative and excellent write up with such captivating photos.

    Carmen

  5. Chandra on Jan 20, 2015 at 7:15 am

    Nice and detailed account of Green Team’s visit to Findhorn. Although a little chilly but early autumn is still a beautiful time to be amongst nature. I am sure the trip was resourceful and helpful to the green team for future application of new ideas. Thank you for your kindness in sharing and inspiring Rinpoche.

  6. Li Kheng on Jan 17, 2015 at 7:00 pm

    Wow, how time flies. It is already January 2015 and the journey to Findhorn is a memory of 3 months ago! Looking back, the memories of Findhorn still put a smile on my face because it was a journey, or rather pilgrimage to learn, experience and embrace views and practices that respect and are in harmony with who we are: humans.

    The spirit of being connected with Mother Nature brings forth our consciousness from within that reignite the senses that have been dulled by he hustle and bustle of city distractions. I like the humanity that dominates the space of Findhorn. It is simply pleasant to look in the eyes people we walk pass and greet them with a warm smile. It is so freeing to to be able to trust the community in which we live. It is joyful to experience the generosity of care, time and effort. I have heard more cynical views that such goodness is extinct. I am happy to tell you all: No, goodness still exist!!! Yay!!!

    I hope the sharing in this article will have a message and method for you to transform into action some of the principals the make Findhorn and its community an emblem of hope.

  7. Julia Tan on Dec 15, 2014 at 1:02 am

    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing our trip in Rinpoche’s blog. I think what we enjoyed the most was meeting these sincere and warm people from Findhorn also their friends near Findhorn. Talking with people that having the same, vision and sharing their experience of how they fail, how they try again and again until they get it right for the sake of mother nature was very inspiring. They are people who know how to live their life. Their children are brought up in such a beautiful place and in an environment that people cherish love more than money. how kind. It’s amazing. Our mission was to feel, to see, to talk, to experience, to learn and to bring this spirit back to KFR. It was a fruitful trip i must say.

  8. Low KHJB on Dec 14, 2014 at 6:37 pm

    Thank you Rinpoche for the sharing on Kechara Visits Findhorn.We are glad that we were given a detail tour of findhorn by our dedicated trio,Pastor Chia,Ms Li Kheng and Ms Julia.
    The Findhorn experience is a must for all nature lover who value methods to preserve,cultivate and develop agriculture in accordance with mother nature and living in harmony with its surrounding.
    We certainly hope that in the near future we could improve,adapt and apply the findhorn style of agricultural practice and landscaping at Kechara Forest Retreat soon.

  9. Choong on Dec 13, 2014 at 12:58 pm

    It is one thing to read about or look at pictures of places such as Findhorn and another thing to actually experience it.

    I rejoice in the Kecharians who have been able to experience Findhorn and look forward to them adopting the practices in Kechara Forest Retreat so that more people can experience and imprint themselves with a fresh new set of values.

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For more information, please read here (english), here (chinese), or the official site: retreat.kechara.com.

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  • Brent
    Tuesday, Mar 26. 2024 04:47 PM
    Living with my wife, whose world is meticulously painted with the hues of OCD, is a journey that intertwines the essence of love with the complexities of the human mind. Her relentless pursuit of cleanliness and order, transforming even the most negligible corner into a testament of organization, often dances on the fine line between admiration and frustration. The sight of her steering clear from trash bins as if they were labyrinths of chaos, serves as a poignant reminder of the battles she fights within. Yet, it’s through these very battles that I’ve learned the profound language of patience and the unspoken strength of support. Therapy, in its gentle embrace, has been a beacon of light for her, guiding her through the stormy seas of OCD. It has not only offered her solace but has also unveiled the strength of her spirit, teaching us both the beauty of resilience. As she journeys through the pathways of healing, I stand by her, a testament to the power of love and the enduring promise of hope. Together, we navigate the complexities of her world, discovering that within the challenges lie opportunities for growth, understanding, and an unbreakable bond. https://www.mindfullyaliveonline.com/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd/
  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Mar 15. 2024 07:31 PM
    Venerable Ajahn Chah was a Thai Buddhist teacher of the Buddhadhamma and a founder of two major monasteries in the Thai Forest Tradition. Well respected and loved as a man of great wisdom, he was also instrumental in establishing Theravada Buddhism in the West. Interesting life story, how he chose to leave the settled monastic life and became a wandering ascetic. Walking across Thailand, lived in forests, caves and cremation grounds while learning from the meditation monks of the Forest of various monasteries. He wandered through the countryside in quest of quiet and secluded places for developing meditation. He even lived in tiger and cobra infested jungles, using reflections on death to penetrate to the true meaning of life. After years of wandering, Venerable Ajahn Chah established a monastery where he taught simple, practice-based form of meditation, and attracted a numerous of students including western foreigners. He was one of the greatest Dhamma teachers of the modern era. His wise teachings have continued to guide thousands of people along the path of Dharma. Venerable Ajahn Chah’s teachings of the Thai Forest Tradition gradually spread across all over the world. Several of Ajahn Chah’s Western students have since established monasteries throughout the world. Just in Thailand itself, there are more than 300 branch monasteries in Ajahn Chah’s tradition. Ven erable Ajahn Chah used his ill health as a teaching point, emphasizing that it was a living example of the impermanence of all things and reminded people to endeavour to find a true refuge within themselves. The legacy of Venerable Ajahn Chah’s teachings and legacy continues into the modern age.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this great sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/venerable-ajahn-chah-the-forest-monk.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Mar 15. 2024 07:30 PM
    Wonderful blog written on the practice of Kalarupa for us to understand better. As an emanation of Manjushri, Kalarupa’s practice helps us to destroy ignorance and to develop wisdom overcoming our anger and suffering . Awesome Kalarupa manifested in multiple forms to help sentient beings who personifies enlightenment by the conquest of anger. Kalarupa also regard as one of the three main Dharma protectors of the Gelugpa is extremely fierce and ugly, and tames all kinds of spiritual ugliness. The fierceness of his iconography teaches us to remind ourselves that all the causes and effects of anger arising from ignorance are dreadful and distorted.
    Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor Antionette for this detailed sharing,

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/kalarupa.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Mar 15. 2024 07:27 PM
    Nepal is a very spiritual country, having a huge Dorje Shugden mural in Kathmandu, is indeed a big achievement for Kechara. Located on Charkhal Road in Dilli Bazaar, the mural can be found midway between our two Dorje Shugden chapels which are in Putalisadak and Chabahil. It is also very close to one of Kathmandu’s largest shopping malls. Many locals , tourist will be able to connect them to a powerful deity that is so closely associated with their culture. Well the mural not only beautiful but also full of symbolism and everyone merely by seeing it is blessed. Thanks to those talented artists and generous sponsors making it a success.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/travel/spectacular-dorje-shugden-mural-in-kathmandu-nepal.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Mar 15. 2024 07:24 PM
    All the art of living lies in a fine mingling of letting go and holding on. Letting go helps us to live in a more peaceful state of mind and helps restore our balance. A reminder for us all to go of attachment and meditating on impermanence and emptiness. We are to relinquish the domination of our ego and its habits to transform ourselves. A great reminder not to waste our previous life.
    Quoted Ceasing to do evil, Cultivating the good, Purifying the heart .
    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing such a meaningful teachings with folded hands.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/pointing-the-staff-at-the-old-man.html
  • james belich
    Friday, Mar 8. 2024 09:43 PM
    Winning the lottery was part of my dreams, I tried so hard to win big but all to no avail, until I came across Dr Lucas online who made my dreams come through and made me win 10 million dollars. I was a logistics manager who lives in Lancaster, S.C. and works about an hour’s drive away, in Charlotte, N.C., I stopped at a store to buy a scratch-off lottery ticket during my lunch break, because Dr Lucas gave me all the assurance that the numbers are not going to fail after I did all he asked me to do. Dr lucas is a powerful Dr that is on a mission to eradicate poverty from people’s lives and i have confirmed that by winning $10 million with the numbers he provided for me, it is my promise to tell the world about my experience with Dr Lucas and that’s what I’m doing now, you can win the lottery fast with the help of Dr Lucas he is tested and trusted Email: Drlucasspelltemple@gmail. com or WhatsApp +234 904 794 3567 he will help you.
  • james belich
    Friday, Mar 8. 2024 09:42 PM
    Winning the lottery was part of my dreams, I tried so hard to win big but all to no avail, until I came across Dr Lucas online who made my dreams come through and made me win 10 million dollars. I was a logistics manager who lives in Lancaster, S.C. and works about an hour’s drive away, in Charlotte, N.C., I stopped at a store to buy a scratch-off lottery ticket during my lunch break, because Dr Lucas gave me all the assurance that the numbers are not going to fail after I did all he asked me to do. Dr lucas is a powerful Dr that is on a mission to eradicate poverty from people’s lives and i have confirmed that by winning $10 million with the numbers he provided for me, it is my promise to tell the world about my experience with Dr Lucas and that’s what I’m doing now, you can win the lottery fast with the help of Dr Lucas he is tested and trusted Email: Drlucasspelltemple@gmail.com or WhatsApp +234 904 794 3567 he will help you.
  • lee
    Thursday, Mar 7. 2024 07:06 PM
    We are members of the Buddhist Temple in Taman Desa Jaya, Kepong, Kuala Lumpur and we have been issued membership by the president (DATUK YIP KUM FOOK), we are very sad because we are the foundation of this Temple

    Now we can know who is always messing with people, and he always cheats money and women, he even uses Buddhism to find money.

    Also, need to be careful with his brother-in-law (Simon Low Kok Meng) because he is a spy (CID) for DATUK YIP KUM FOOK and we will write some letters to AGONG SULTAN IBRAHIM IBN ALMARHUM SULTAN ISKANDAR as soon as possible.

    From Jesmond Yap, Kepong Baru…Kuala Lumpur
  • Phoenix the Shaman Elder
    Thursday, Mar 7. 2024 01:40 AM
    The matriarchal cultures of the grandmothers have specific symbolism of animism shamanism, such as the horse, especially the blue horse, and the deer. These are two main symbols of a shaman woman and you can find them in many cultural folk lore, especially the Russian, Slavic, Siberian, Nordic, Finland, and Norway. It’s nice to see the Matriarchal Shaman Animism diety represented in Chinese.
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Mar 4. 2024 06:59 PM
    An inspiring act of a selfless Lama feeding strays whether its night or day. Truly an example for us all to feed those lonely strays . Yes I do agree compassion starts with feeding strays. Reading this blog again to refresh myself to do more. Strays animals generally lead a life of poor welfare on the street. Feeding strays is a compassionate act.
    Thank you Rinpoche and Anila for this sharing.


    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/one-minute-story/rinpoche-through-my-eyes-compassion-starts-with-feeding-strays
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Mar 4. 2024 06:56 PM
    nteresting revisit this blog again as truly inspiring reading over and over again . There’s so many inspiring nuns and female practitioner coming from different back ground, leading a more spiritual life. They are practitioners dedicated their life to religious observance and their path is illuminated by the light of compassion. Going against all odds to become one. Their devotion radiates like a thousand stars in the night sky. Here at Kechara Forest Retreat, Bentong Pahang we too have inspiring practitioners .
    Thank you Rinpoche for this great sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/inspiring-nuns-and-female-practitioners.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Mar 4. 2024 06:55 PM
    H E Tsem Rinpoche’s Sungbum project aim to preserve the teachings and practices that have been passed from teacher to disciple in an unbroken line beginning with Lama Tsongkhapa himself . History has taught us the importance of preserving Buddha’s stainless teachings. Its important to preserve and safeguard the Buddhist tradition for future generations.
    Tsem Rinpoche is a clear and effective teacher where his stories and teachings are endlessly entertaining and inspiring. The preservation is very much needed. We are so fortunate given a chance to be involved in such a meritorious project .
    Thank you.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/the-tsem-rinpoche-sungbum-project.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Mar 4. 2024 06:55 PM
    Demons are disembodied spirits, supernatural being or spirit and unseen beings. We know they do exist and I believe they do. They have no physical form to them whatsoever. Demons do definitely exist. They are intelligent beings who are evil malicious spirits and are all dangerous entities. Valak is not to be summoned capriciously by anyone as they are dangerous beings when we invoke them having to face a heavy consequence. There are spiritual practices that we can ask for help a ritual of the wrathful Manjushri in the form of Trakze. Having a doing the practice daily without fail, consistently, as this Trakze practice has been proven to be efficacious to break the hold the Valak and other spirits. All thanks to our Guru bringing this practice to Kechara Forest Retreat, Bentong Malaysia.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this wonderful sharing for us to understand better.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/science-mysteries/valak-the-conjuring-2-demon.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Mar 4. 2024 06:53 PM
    Wow ,reading all these powerful quotes had me realised much better of giving even I have little. May H E Tsem Rinpoche’s sincere advice to reach the far shore of liberation to everyone reading this blog. The most truly generous people are those who give silently without asking any in return. There is no exercise better than reaching and lifting people up. A kind gesture can reach a wound that only compassion can heal. Well creating and lighting for others we naturally light our own way. Helping others especially those unfortunate ones, make us feel more positive about our own circumstances.
    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing all these powerful quotes.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/inspiration-worthy-words/the-power-of-giving-18-quotes-from-tsem-rinpoche.html
  • Aarati Bhatt
    Wednesday, Feb 28. 2024 12:47 AM
    I have tried mine and my friend’s horoscope and it results same in both of our case, and not just that I have tried this on various friends and this horoscope is showing same for maximum date of birth, I think this is a bug.

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The Known and unknown are both feared,
Known is being comfortable and stagnant,
The unknown may be growth and opportunities,
One shall never know if one fears the unknown more than the known.
Who says the unknown would be worse than the known?
But then again, the unknown is sometimes worse than the known. In the end nothing is known unless we endeavour,
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According to legend, Shambhala is a place where wisdom and love reign, and there is no crime. Doesn\'t this sound like the kind of place all of us would love to live in? https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=204874
4 years ago
According to legend, Shambhala is a place where wisdom and love reign, and there is no crime. Doesn't this sound like the kind of place all of us would love to live in? https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=204874
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108 candles and sang (incense) offered at our Wish-Fulfilling Grotto, invoking Dorje Shugden's blessings for friends, sponsors and supporters, wonderful!
Dharmapalas are not exclusive to Tibetan culture and their practice is widespread throughout the Buddhist world - https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=193645
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Dharmapalas are not exclusive to Tibetan culture and their practice is widespread throughout the Buddhist world - https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=193645
One of our adorable Kechara Forest Retreat\'s doggies, Tara, happy and safe, and enjoying herself in front of Wisdom Hall which has been decorated for Chinese New Year
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One of our adorable Kechara Forest Retreat's doggies, Tara, happy and safe, and enjoying herself in front of Wisdom Hall which has been decorated for Chinese New Year
Fragrant organic Thai basil harvested from our very own Kechara Forest Retreat farm!
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Fragrant organic Thai basil harvested from our very own Kechara Forest Retreat farm!
On behalf of our Puja House team, Pastor Tat Ming receives food and drinks from Rinpoche. Rinpoche wanted to make sure the hardworking Puja House team are always taken care of.
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On behalf of our Puja House team, Pastor Tat Ming receives food and drinks from Rinpoche. Rinpoche wanted to make sure the hardworking Puja House team are always taken care of.
By the time I heard about Luang Phor Thong, he was already very old, in his late 80s. When I heard about him, I immediately wanted to go and pay my respects to him. - http://bit.ly/LuangPhorThong
4 years ago
By the time I heard about Luang Phor Thong, he was already very old, in his late 80s. When I heard about him, I immediately wanted to go and pay my respects to him. - http://bit.ly/LuangPhorThong
It\'s very nice to see volunteers helping maintain holy sites in Kechara Forest Retreat, it\'s very good for them. Cleaning Buddha statues is a very powerful and effective way of purifying body karma.
4 years ago
It's very nice to see volunteers helping maintain holy sites in Kechara Forest Retreat, it's very good for them. Cleaning Buddha statues is a very powerful and effective way of purifying body karma.
Kechara Forest Retreat is preparing for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations. This is our holy Vajra Yogini stupa which is now surrounded by beautiful lanterns organised by our students.
4 years ago
Kechara Forest Retreat is preparing for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations. This is our holy Vajra Yogini stupa which is now surrounded by beautiful lanterns organised by our students.
One of the most recent harvests from our Kechara Forest Retreat land. It was grown free of chemicals and pesticides, wonderful!
4 years ago
One of the most recent harvests from our Kechara Forest Retreat land. It was grown free of chemicals and pesticides, wonderful!
Third picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
5 years ago
Third picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
Second picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
5 years ago
Second picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
First picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
5 years ago
First picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
The first title published by Kechara Comics is Karuna Finds A Way. It tells the tale of high-school sweethearts Karuna and Adam who had what some would call the dream life. Everything was going great for them until one day when reality came knocking on their door. Caught in a surprise swindle, this loving family who never harmed anyone found themselves out of luck and down on their fortune. Determined to save her family, Karuna goes all out to find a solution. See what she does- https://bit.ly/2LSKuWo
5 years ago
The first title published by Kechara Comics is Karuna Finds A Way. It tells the tale of high-school sweethearts Karuna and Adam who had what some would call the dream life. Everything was going great for them until one day when reality came knocking on their door. Caught in a surprise swindle, this loving family who never harmed anyone found themselves out of luck and down on their fortune. Determined to save her family, Karuna goes all out to find a solution. See what she does- https://bit.ly/2LSKuWo
Very powerful story! Tibetan Resistance group Chushi Gangdruk reveals how Dalai Lama escaped in 1959- https://bit.ly/2S9VMGX
5 years ago
Very powerful story! Tibetan Resistance group Chushi Gangdruk reveals how Dalai Lama escaped in 1959- https://bit.ly/2S9VMGX
At Kechara Forest Retreat land we have nice fresh spinach growing free of chemicals and pesticides. Yes!
5 years ago
At Kechara Forest Retreat land we have nice fresh spinach growing free of chemicals and pesticides. Yes!
See beautiful pictures of Manjushri Guest House here- https://bit.ly/2WGo0ti
5 years ago
See beautiful pictures of Manjushri Guest House here- https://bit.ly/2WGo0ti
Beginner’s Introduction to Dorje Shugden~Very good overview https://bit.ly/2QQNfYv
5 years ago
Beginner’s Introduction to Dorje Shugden~Very good overview https://bit.ly/2QQNfYv
Fresh eggplants grown on Kechara Forest Retreat\'s land here in Malaysia
5 years ago
Fresh eggplants grown on Kechara Forest Retreat's land here in Malaysia
Most Venerable Uppalavanna – The Chief Female Disciple of Buddha Shakyamuni - She exhibited many supernatural abilities gained from meditation and proved to the world females and males are equal in spirituality- https://bit.ly/31d9Rat
5 years ago
Most Venerable Uppalavanna – The Chief Female Disciple of Buddha Shakyamuni - She exhibited many supernatural abilities gained from meditation and proved to the world females and males are equal in spirituality- https://bit.ly/31d9Rat
Thailand’s ‘Renegade’ Yet Powerful Buddhist Nuns~ https://bit.ly/2Z1C02m
5 years ago
Thailand’s ‘Renegade’ Yet Powerful Buddhist Nuns~ https://bit.ly/2Z1C02m
Mahapajapati Gotami – the first Buddhist nun ordained by Lord Buddha- https://bit.ly/2IjD8ru
5 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami – the first Buddhist nun ordained by Lord Buddha- https://bit.ly/2IjD8ru
The Largest Buddha Shakyamuni in Russia | 俄罗斯最大的释迦牟尼佛画像- https://bit.ly/2Wpclni
5 years ago
The Largest Buddha Shakyamuni in Russia | 俄罗斯最大的释迦牟尼佛画像- https://bit.ly/2Wpclni
Sacred Vajra Yogini
5 years ago
Sacred Vajra Yogini
Dorje Shugden works & archives - a labour of commitment - https://bit.ly/30Tp2p8
5 years ago
Dorje Shugden works & archives - a labour of commitment - https://bit.ly/30Tp2p8
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha.
5 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha.
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha. She was his step-mother and aunt. Buddha\'s mother had passed away at his birth so he was raised by Gotami.
5 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha. She was his step-mother and aunt. Buddha's mother had passed away at his birth so he was raised by Gotami.
Another nun disciple of Lord Buddha\'s. She had achieved great spiritual abilities and high attainments. She would be a proper object of refuge. This image of the eminent bhikkhuni (nun) disciple of the Buddha, Uppalavanna Theri.
5 years ago
Another nun disciple of Lord Buddha's. She had achieved great spiritual abilities and high attainments. She would be a proper object of refuge. This image of the eminent bhikkhuni (nun) disciple of the Buddha, Uppalavanna Theri.
Wandering Ascetic Painting by Nirdesha Munasinghe
5 years ago
Wandering Ascetic Painting by Nirdesha Munasinghe
High Sri Lankan monks visit Kechara to bless our land, temple, Buddha and Dorje Shugden images. They were very kind-see pictures- https://bit.ly/2HQie2M
5 years ago
High Sri Lankan monks visit Kechara to bless our land, temple, Buddha and Dorje Shugden images. They were very kind-see pictures- https://bit.ly/2HQie2M
This is pretty amazing!

First Sri Lankan Buddhist temple opened in Dubai!!!
5 years ago
This is pretty amazing! First Sri Lankan Buddhist temple opened in Dubai!!!
My Dharma boy (left) and Oser girl loves to laze around on the veranda in the mornings. They enjoy all the trees, grass and relaxing under the hot sun. Sunbathing is a favorite daily activity. I care about these two doggies of mine very much and I enjoy seeing them happy. They are with me always. Tsem Rinpoche

Always be kind to animals and eat vegetarian- https://bit.ly/2Psp8h2
5 years ago
My Dharma boy (left) and Oser girl loves to laze around on the veranda in the mornings. They enjoy all the trees, grass and relaxing under the hot sun. Sunbathing is a favorite daily activity. I care about these two doggies of mine very much and I enjoy seeing them happy. They are with me always. Tsem Rinpoche Always be kind to animals and eat vegetarian- https://bit.ly/2Psp8h2
After you left me Mumu, I was alone. I have no family or kin. You were my family. I can\'t stop thinking of you and I can\'t forget you. My bond and connection with you is so strong. I wish you were by my side. Tsem Rinpoche
5 years ago
After you left me Mumu, I was alone. I have no family or kin. You were my family. I can't stop thinking of you and I can't forget you. My bond and connection with you is so strong. I wish you were by my side. Tsem Rinpoche
This story is a life-changer. Learn about the incredible Forest Man of India | 印度“森林之子”- https://bit.ly/2Eh4vRS
5 years ago
This story is a life-changer. Learn about the incredible Forest Man of India | 印度“森林之子”- https://bit.ly/2Eh4vRS
Part 2-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
5 years ago
Part 2-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
Part 1-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
5 years ago
Part 1-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
The great Protector Manjushri Dorje Shugden depicted in the beautiful Mongolian style. To download a high resolution file: https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
5 years ago
The great Protector Manjushri Dorje Shugden depicted in the beautiful Mongolian style. To download a high resolution file: https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
The Mystical land of Shambhala is finally ready for everyone to feast their eyes and be blessed. A beautiful post with information, art work, history, spirituality and a beautiful book composed by His Holiness the 6th Panchen Rinpoche. ~ https://bit.ly/309MHBi
5 years ago
The Mystical land of Shambhala is finally ready for everyone to feast their eyes and be blessed. A beautiful post with information, art work, history, spirituality and a beautiful book composed by His Holiness the 6th Panchen Rinpoche. ~ https://bit.ly/309MHBi
Beautiful pictures of the huge Buddha in Longkou Nanshan- https://bit.ly/2LsBxVb
5 years ago
Beautiful pictures of the huge Buddha in Longkou Nanshan- https://bit.ly/2LsBxVb
The reason-Very interesting thought- https://bit.ly/2V7VT5r
5 years ago
The reason-Very interesting thought- https://bit.ly/2V7VT5r
NEW Bigfoot cafe in Malaysia! Food is delicious!- https://bit.ly/2VxdGau
5 years ago
NEW Bigfoot cafe in Malaysia! Food is delicious!- https://bit.ly/2VxdGau
DON\'T MISS THIS!~How brave Bonnie survived by living with a herd of deer~ https://bit.ly/2Lre2eY
5 years ago
DON'T MISS THIS!~How brave Bonnie survived by living with a herd of deer~ https://bit.ly/2Lre2eY
Global Superpower China Will Cut Meat Consumption by 50%! Very interesting, find out more- https://bit.ly/2V1sJFh
5 years ago
Global Superpower China Will Cut Meat Consumption by 50%! Very interesting, find out more- https://bit.ly/2V1sJFh
You can download this beautiful Egyptian style Dorje Shugden Free- https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
5 years ago
You can download this beautiful Egyptian style Dorje Shugden Free- https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
Beautiful high file for print of Lord Manjushri. May you be blessed- https://bit.ly/2V8mwZe
5 years ago
Beautiful high file for print of Lord Manjushri. May you be blessed- https://bit.ly/2V8mwZe
Mongolian (Oymiakon) Shaman in Siberia, Russia. That is his real outfit he wears. Very unique. TR
5 years ago
Mongolian (Oymiakon) Shaman in Siberia, Russia. That is his real outfit he wears. Very unique. TR
Find one of the most beautiful temples in the world in Nara, Japan. It is the 1,267 year old Todai-ji temple that houses a 15 meter Buddha Vairocana statue who is a cosmic and timeless Buddha. Emperor Shomu who sponsored this beautiful temple eventually abdicated and ordained as a Buddhist monk. Very interesting history and story. One of the places everyone should visit- https://bit.ly/2VgsHhK
5 years ago
Find one of the most beautiful temples in the world in Nara, Japan. It is the 1,267 year old Todai-ji temple that houses a 15 meter Buddha Vairocana statue who is a cosmic and timeless Buddha. Emperor Shomu who sponsored this beautiful temple eventually abdicated and ordained as a Buddhist monk. Very interesting history and story. One of the places everyone should visit- https://bit.ly/2VgsHhK
Manjusri Kumara (bodhisattva of wisdom), India, Pala dynesty, 9th century, stone, Honolulu Academy of Arts
5 years ago
Manjusri Kumara (bodhisattva of wisdom), India, Pala dynesty, 9th century, stone, Honolulu Academy of Arts
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ASK A PASTOR


Ask the Pastors

A section for you to clarify your Dharma questions with Kechara’s esteemed pastors.

Just post your name and your question below and one of our pastors will provide you with an answer.

Scroll down and click on "View All Questions" to view archived questions.

  • March 29, 2024 09:59
    Anonymous asked: 1: how can cleaning be turned into meditation? 2: in Chinese tradition, when someone passes away, there are these blankets with like Buddhas' names on it, Buddhist symbols, etc. What happens when they are cremated, what should we do so it isn't disrespectful to burn the cover/blanket? Thank you ♡
    pastor answered: Dear Anonymous, Thank you for your questions. In regards to your first question, here is a part of Tsem Rinpoche's teaching (https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/how-to-purify-your-karma-in-kechara-forest-retreat.html): "As I have shared before, during the Buddha’s time, he had a student who was not very intelligent, an old monk. And when this old monk memorised the first word, when he got to the second word, he forgot the first word. When he went back to the first word, he forgot the second word. And he’d yo-yo back and forth like that. And he was very frustrated so he asked the Buddha what he could do because he was having such a hard time memorising and understanding the Dharma due to his very, very, very, poor memory. And so the Buddha said, “Visualise a temple, the shoes of the monks, the floor, the surrounding area, the garden, the trees and all that as your mind. And all the leaves that have fallen as your karma, and your kleshas, your obstructions, your obstacles. Think of all the dirt, think of all the dust, as your kleshas and your obstructions and your negative karma, and every day clean it. And recite this DÜ PUNG DRI MA PUNG, DÜ PUNG DRI MA PUNG, DÜ PUNG DRI MA PUNG. Remove my defilements, remove its leftovers. Remove my defilements, remove the leftovers, the stains.. So, to recite that every day carefully and to visualise it carefully and do that.” So when you are cleaning, you visualise that you are cleaning the defilements from your mind, you can recite "DÜ PUNG DRI MA PUNG, DÜ PUNG DRI MA PUNG, DÜ PUNG DRI MA PUNG." or "Remove my defilements, remove its leftovers." Or you can recite mantras of purification such as Vajrasattva. In regards to your second question: from the Tibetan Buddhist viewpoints you would not burn mantras or images of or associated with the Three Jewels. However, the specific mantras on the blanket, may be for this specific purpose. We wouldn't be able to give you a definitive answers as we would need to know the specific mantras, prayers, images on the blanket. Hope this helps. Thank you.
  • March 28, 2024 05:40
    Jason asked: Continuing from the previous answer, how do we liberate ourselves from samsara if it’s impossible to not create further karma while existing in samsara? If we create karma just be existing, that means that we will keep reincarnating over and over again so it seems like we’re stuck in the cycle
    pastor answered: Dear Jason, You've asked a very interesting follow-up question. Generally speaking, yes if you are in samsara, then you are always creating more karma. That's why the goal of Buddhists is to be liberated from samsara. The Buddha and other enlightened beings achieved this and the practice of Dharma itself is geared towards achieving this. I'll try to explain it here, hopefully I can do so in such a short space. So, normally there is no way out of samsara, but when you practice the Dharma there is. Remember in my previous reply to you, I mentioned that there are differing levels of severity of karma? Some are heavier, some lighter, etc. When practising the Dharma, you reduce the amount of karma that you produce. When you have less effects of karma, due to less negative karma itself, you can focus more on the spiritual practices that lead to liberation. I'll take the examples of the Refuge vows. There are 10 of them, split into three categories related to the body, speech and mind. First is the body, which includes to abstain form killing, as killing creates negative karma. The in the speech section, it includes to abstain from lying. This is harder to do. What is easier - to abstain from killing another human being, or lying to another person. The easier one is not to kill. Hence, you train yourself in this manner, working from those actions that are easiest to avoid, working up to those that are harder. For example in the mind section, one of the vows is not to covet something that another person has. But this is harder to do than either not lying or not killing. In other words, in our spiritual practice, we reduce the karma that we create though the actions of our body, speech and mind. Since we have less karma, we suffer less. And then finally, we are get to really subtle levels of karma, which are like residue in our mindstreams. But it's still there. In order to get out of samsara, you need to realise what we call emptiness (which is way to complicated to talk about here). In other words, the very path of the Dharma is to reduce the karma we create, starting with the easiest and working up to the hardest, which is where it becomes the easiest to understand emptiness. This who journey is a process, that's why teachings such as the Lamrim are indesipensible as it shows us the actual way to practice. Normally, we are stuck in Samsara. But when we practice the Dharma and ultimately realise emptiness (there are many, many steps in between) we are able to get out of samsara completely. This may sound confusing, which is why in Buddhism study, understand and practice is very important. We have Dharma classes available, where you can learn and find out more: https://www.kechara.com/learn/dharma-classes/ I hope this helps.
  • March 27, 2024 06:10
    Jason asked: People-especially family put certain expectations on us and when we refuse, it causes them a lot of stress and anger and we make them suffer…. my family wants me to marry and have kids but I don’t want to be tied down to Samsara any further and just explaining that I want to shave my head drives my mom crazy and she starts speaking to me in a very loud and forceful manner saying that she doesn’t care what I have to say and that she knows better than me so she will do whatever it takes make me have a family even if she ends up becoming a villain in my eyes because it’s for my own good so that I won’t be alone and lonely when I’m old. When we say no to people, especially to people who care about us and want the best for us, do we accumulate negative karma from causing them emotional turmoil and pain
    pastor answered: Dear Jason, Thank you for your question. In essence, any action that causes another person harm or suffering whether physical or emotional generates negative karma. But karma is complicated and not as simple as we usually think about it. There are differences in level of severity of karma created, some can be very light and some can be heavy. These are due to the variables when creating karma, such as motivation, the actions, your feelings after it, etc. This can all be found in teachings that talk about karma, especially the Lamrim teachings. In Buddhism we teach that we need to avoid the creation of negative karma for sure. But simply by being stuck in samsara, there is actually no way out of creating karma. That is why Buddhists seek to be free from samsara altogether. Only when we are free from samsara, are we free from the creation of karma. In relation to your situation, if you are young and rely on your parents, for now you should try not to do things that are create division or disharmony within the family environment. That itself if the practice of the Dharma. Then later, when you are independent you can make more of an informed choice about what you want to do. Even in your current situation, you can practice the Dharma, it is not necessary to become a monk or nun to progress on your spiritual path. Dharma can be practiced in any environment, and actually practising towards our family is the best. When we transform our minds and our behvariours and they see just how beneficial this transformation is, this is the best way to show them that Dharma is good. This was a piece of advice that Tsem Rinpoche used to tell people in family situations all the time. I hope this helps you.
  • March 26, 2024 02:28
    Rojal Poudel asked: How can I meet my guru? Does one need a guru for initiation for tantra and other stuff on the path to enlightenment? Does one need a guru to attain enlightenment?
    pastor answered: Dear Rojal, Thank you for your question. In regards to meeting your guru, there are many different ways. These days you can meet your guru online as well. For example, many people did not meet Tsem Rinpoche personally, but they consider him to be there guru. You may find this article interesting: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/the-guru-protocol-a-guide-to-knowing-who-your-guru-is.html In regards to tantra, yes, one definitely needs a qualified guru to bestow initiation and teach us the path of practice once you have initiation. In regards to our tradition, it is also considered necessary to have a guru to attain full enlightenment. Hope this helps. The article lined above will definitely help to answer some of your questions on a deeper level. Thank you.
  • March 25, 2024 10:35
    Rojal Poudel asked: How can you deepen your spiritual progress while sleeping? I heard some people can go to pure lands and get teachings directly from Buddha’s, Bodhisattva’s, and Dharma Protecters. Are these possible from Lucid Dreaming and Astral Projection?
    pastor answered: Dear Rojal, Thank you for your questions. It's always nice to see you here wanting to learn more. Yes it is definitely possible to deepen your practice in your sleep. This is done during practice of Highest Yoga Tantra, after receiving initiation and progressed along generation stage practice. This would obviously include everything before receiving such iniation such as having a basis and grounding in the Three Principle Aspects of the Path and the Lamrim teachings. In this practice you are able to use sleep to engage in meditation. This would need you to be able to lucid dream before hand. The ability to lucid dream itself can be developed a number of ways, but the most common is single-pointed mediation concentration during waking life. This is also known as Shamatha meditation. But in this case, the object of your meditation should be a mental one, rather than a physical one. The best would be a visualisation of the Buddha. All of this is outlined in the Lamrim teachings in the section on developing concentration. In terms of Astral Travel, yes it is definitely possible, and again there are different methods to go about this. Again this should be done only after having received the appropriate intiations and teachings from your guru. However, there are quite a few dangers involved with this. As Tsem Rinpoche mentioned before, the two main ones is that your consciousness is not able to return to your body and two that a spirit can take possession of your body if your protection is not strong and you have not invoked a Dharma protector to help with protection aspects. Another thing about astral travel, is that even if learn how to do it, it is not necessary that you can actually visit pure lands or receive teachings, etc. This is because, to do this, would require a lot of merit. So there are many things and practices to develop merit before you should engage in it. Often times, people who claim that they have received teachings or visited purelands, actually haven't though they may think that they did. It could simply be a projection of one's mind and in some serious cases perhaps even due to spirits mascarading. If you would like to learn lucid dreaming, please look into the teachings of single-pointed concentration normally. The ability of lucid dreaming comes naturally for those who progress in their shamatha meditation. As for astral travel practices, I would advise not to engage in such practices unless you receive the appropriate initiations, teachings from and under the strict supervision of a qualified guru. Hope this helps.
  • March 24, 2024 01:17
    Dirji asked: How can I see my kaytsa
    pastor answered: Dear Dirji, We are sorry, but we do not understand your question. Perhaps because you asked using the english phoenetics of the word. If possible, please post again using either the English translation of the word or using the Tibetan script, so that we can help you properly. Thank you.
  • March 23, 2024 12:11
    Marc asked: What is the direct translation of Tsem Rinpoche’s name mantra? Thank you 🙏🏽
    pastor answered: Dear Marc, Thank you for your question. You can find a translation of the meaning of Tsem Rinpoche's name mantra on Kechara's Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=683136630510067. Hope this helps. Thank you.
  • March 22, 2024 20:27
    Rojal Poudel asked: I am about to leave everything behind. I am tired of this life where I do the same thing everyday. I see everything but dharma as an illusion. I want to attain some sort of realization so that I can benefit other sentient beings. I am very inspired by the story of Milarepa, who gave up everything to learn dharma. Even the Buddha gave up comfort and luxury in search for this supreme truth. I also want to follow the Please tell me what I should do.
    pastor answered: Dear Rojal, We can understand that you feel this way, and seeing the illusion of life should definitely motivate us to want to achieve something more spiritual. In the past when people asked Tsem Rinpoche the same question, he used to tell people a couple of things: > The first is that there are two methods to deal with our spiritual path. The first is to physically renounce everything and go into the wilderness, like Buddha Shakyamuni and Milarepa did. To cut yourself from everyone and everything and meditate continuously for years until you achieve realisation. But this is very hard to do in our day and age. We still need to have contact with people, there are the necessities of life to think about. Rinpoche said we need to think about things from a practice angle also. It takes a very great level of practitioner with an immense store of merit to be able to do this successfully. > The second method is to keep living within our a community and use them as a support for the transformation of the mind and spiritual progress. For example, that it why we have monasteries and nunneries, or Dharma centres and organisations to help with spiritual practice. This method is more measured, but you can still gain the same results. This is the more practical method. Especially according to the Mahayana path of practice, Bodhisattvas need to practice certain qualities in our minds and we progress towards enlightenment. Such qualities include the Six Perfections, but if we are not around others, how do we practice them? In order to practice generosity, we need others to be generous towards. In order to practice patience, we need others to be patient towards. In order to practice morality and ethics, we need to be in situations to be able to practice our vows. Enlightened beings like Buddha and Milarepa were able to do all of this in their minds during meditation but as mentioned before they were already high level pracitioners with immense merit. For example, Buddha Shakyamuni had three countless aeons of consistent practice life time after life time until his achieved enlightenment. > Another thing that Rinpoche shared, that while understanding the drawbacks of life and the benefits of becoming enlightened, a lot of the time what happens these days is that it is mixed up with emotion due to the challenges of life. People are looking for an escape, but not an escape from samsara into enlightenment, but simple an escape from their current problems. The need for escape, known as renunciation in Buddhism, is not to simply escape samsara, but developed in a certain way through contemplation and meditation. When we have such feelings, we should analyse them to see if they are in accord with the teachings and the methods of developing true renunciation. Many people also have a unrealistic way of thinking about physical renunciation and the spiritual path in general. Most people think it is easy, but it is not, is difficult because we need to deal with our minds, our emotions, our traumas, etc, from countless lives. If we don't have a firm foundation in Dharma practice and transformation before we attempt something like Buddha Shakyamuni or Milarepa, we will give up after a while because we find it too hard. And perhaps give up spiritual practice because the path did not actually match our expectations. So the key is to be as realistic as possible about our spiritual path. So our advice, rather than give up everything, as you may have family or other responsibilities, is to use your current situation to transform your mind, to practice the teachings right now in life, so that you can start progressing along the spiritual life. The best way to do this is to practice the Lamrim teachings, which give you a firm roadmap of how and what to practice in a sequential manner. Giving up everything is not necessary to make real progress on the spiritual path, as outlined in the Lamrim, but sustained and consistent practice is the key. Then use the situations in your life to actualise that transformation. We hope this helps.
  • March 21, 2024 00:44
    Jason asked: I listened to Tsem Rinpoche’s dharma talk and was inspired to be patient and kind towards other. For a while I felt like my mind had transformed and I started being more proactive in helping others and making sure to complete my responsibilities as perfectly as I can to not burden others and taking the initiative to help people that I see are struggling with their work but recently I have been feeling like I’m actually harming others instead of helping them by being kind because I feel like I’m enabling their bad behavior and rude attitude, especially one person in particular that I have to work with. No matter how much I help and show kindness, they don’t seem to change…and now I feel like a pushover for smiling and helping them even though they don’t show any appreciation or respect for it and instead take advantage of me and push even more of their responsibilities on me. I’ve been having thoughts that my kindness and patience has just become a cover for fear of confrontation now. What should I do? I feel like I’m gonna lose control and lash out even though I try to focus my mind on how the people around me must be struggling
    pastor answered: Dear Jason, Thank you for your question. We are very happy to hear that Tsem Rinpoche's Dharma talks have inspired you, especially to practice patience and kindness towards others. Please do keep it up, the benefits of both qualities are immense and are central to spiritual transformation. We should always try our best to practice both patience and kindness, but sometimes practising it in the way we think may not be the best option. For example, in the case that you mentioned, it is not having the right effect on your own mind and also you are enabling your co-worker to exhibit negative behaviours as well. In this case, actually practising kindness would not be to become a pushover, taking more responsibilities, etc. This isn't beneficial for your or the co-worker. So here, practising kindness would actually be not to allow the person to do such things, but it should be practised with patience and not out of emotion. So you would do this in a very skilfful manner. The best would be to have a talk with your co-worker in a very calm manner and explain how you are feeling and how they are making you feel in the work environment, and try to sort out the situation before it progresses. Especially since you are having such thoughts of anger and the posibility of lashing out. Practicing kindness and patience is not at all become a push over or allowing others to skip out on their responsibilities, etc. We really hope this helps. Thank you.
  • March 20, 2024 14:49
    Sok asked: Hello respected pastors. Is Kusha grass same as Durva grass? How to obtain kusha grass?
    pastor answered: Dear Sok, Kusha grass and Durva grass are two different types of grass, they are not the same. Kusha grass is also known as halfa grass, big cordgrass, or salt reed-grass. Its scientific name is Desmostachya Bipinnata. In shape, each blade of grass is long and straight. Durva grass is also known as bermuda grass. Its scientific name is Cynodon Dactylon. In shape, each blade looks segmented and has smaller leaves sprouting from it. You can google the scientific name to see the difference between the two. Generally, they can be bought at Indian religious stores if there are any nearby where you live. Alternatively, if you live in Asia, you can buy a traditional grass broom, which you can substitue for the Kusha grass. It is a close relative of Kusha grass and the lamas have said that it can be used as substitue if you cannot find the actual grass. I hope this helps. Thank you.
  • March 19, 2024 20:56
    Bhavisha asked: How to know wheather specific LOCAL deity is enlighten or not?
    pastor answered: Dear Bhavisha, Local deities are not enlightened. They are sentient beings who look after or take care of a specific area. There are different names for these types of beings, such as local deities, Land God, Landowner deities, etc. They belong to the God Realm, but as other beings in the god realm, they are not enlightened. Hope this helps.
  • March 18, 2024 09:57
    Rojal Poudel asked: What comes after attaining samatha or calm abiding meditation?
    pastor answered: Dear Rojal, Nice to see you back here! Shamatha is a tool, basically through this meditation you develop single pointed concentration. But after developing that, you use it to engage in Vipashyana meditation, otherwise known as Special Insight. Different traditions have different version of Special Insight. In our tradition, we use this type of meditation to analyse what we call "emptiness." The teachings on the emptiness are the actual teaching that leads to enlightenment. All other teachings or practices help to prepare your mind to be able to do this. Shamatha comes in, because the topic of emptiness is so deep, that we need single-pointed concentration to analyse it. If we don't have this type of concentration, we will not be able to understand emptiness. Hence, shamatha and vipashyana meditation are used in tandem to achieve enlightenment. This may seem a little abstract. The Lamrim teachings go into this in a lot of detail. They can be found in the chapters dealing with the Concentration and Wisdom as part of the Six Perfections in the Great Scope sections of the Lamrim. Hope this helps. Thank you.
  • March 17, 2024 23:16
    Jonathan Tan asked: Hi Dear Pastor, I am curious if H.E 25th Tsem Rinpoche had any heart disciples (son/daughter) Is there a difference between heart and root disciples?
    pastor answered: Dear Jonathan, Thank you for your question. There is no one heart disciple of Tsem Rinpoche. This usually refers to specific person who carries on the teachings and practices of a particular teacher. Tsem Rinpoche wanted something different for Kechara, hence we carry on his teachings and practices as a group, rather than one specific person. Rinpoche trained his students, who are either Sangha, Pastors or senior students in various ways of continuing his teachings, especially through the work that they do. In this way, we continue Rinpoche's teachings as a group rather than any one heart disciple. Hope that this helps. Thank you.
  • March 16, 2024 01:18
    Sirius asked: Hi dear pastors, I'd like to get recomendations on how to improve my actual sadhana. My morning starts by taking refuge and making offerings to the three jewls, followed by Lama Tsongkhapa's Guru Yoga. After this I usually study Lam Rim, and other Dharma Texts. During the afternoon I meditate for a about an hour or so, and somedays I do the Dorje Shugden sadhana given by Rinpoche. Finally at night I finish my day by doing Vajrasattva meditation and confession to the 35 Buddhas. What else can I do to improve my sadhana? What practices would you recomend me to do? Do you have recomendations on texts I could read? I would like to add that I live in Argentina, and I do not have any buddhist temple near sadly, so I cannot go there to practice, learm or collab. I would appreciate advice on this. Thank you in advance.
    pastor answered: Dear Sirius, Thank you for your question. In terms of practice, you are doing a lot. We are very happy to read that you are doing all these beneficial practices. They will be very beneficial for you. What you are doing is very good already, the only thing that I would say is to make the Dorje Shugden sadhana consistent as well as the others. If you are doing the short Diamond Path sadhana, it includes the Vajrasatta meditations, so you don't have to do it separately. We just have some points to help you improve your practice: > First is whenever you do any of the practices, is it vital to make sure you take refuge, generate bodhicitta and practice the four immeasurables before each session. And then at the end of the session, make sure to dedicate. This seals the merit generated from your practice. This is very important as if we don't have the correct motivation at the beginning and dedicate it at the end, since the merit is not sealed, the positive potential is destroyed when we have disturbing emotions, especially anger. > The second is to be consistent in your practices and do them daily. If you cannot be consistent with the practices you are doing at the moment, then reduce what you are doing to make it simple, for example just the Diamond Path (which includes Tsongkhapa's Guru Yoga anyway). Then once you are consistent daily, later you can slow add in other practices and become consistent with them. > The third is to keep revising the teachings on these practices, understand the motivation, deepen your visualisations, etc. > In regards to your meditation, if you are doing breathing or concentration meditation, again, revise the teachings again and again to make your practice stronger and understand where you are on your meditational path. > You can also spend some time every day, maybe five or ten minutes contemplating the Lamrim teachings step by step. This itself is extremely transformational and will propel you along the spiritual path. In regards to what else to study or read, here is a very good article: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/books-that-are-a-must-read.html If you consider Tsem Rinpoche to be your spiritual teacher, there are thousands of hours of teachings on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoTg0Wc5q3Gnz8ej3ETCdMQ You can watch and re-watch them to deepen your understanding and practice. I hope all of this helps.
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CHAT PICTURES

Rejoice to the volunteers (also kind sponsors) who cleaned the Gyenze Chapel and made abundant offerings to Gyenze. ~ Alice
2 days ago
Rejoice to the volunteers (also kind sponsors) who cleaned the Gyenze Chapel and made abundant offerings to Gyenze. ~ Alice
Offered beautiful flowers abundantly to Gyenze. ~ Alice
2 days ago
Offered beautiful flowers abundantly to Gyenze. ~ Alice
Offered beautiful flowers abundantly to Gyenze. ~ Alice
2 days ago
Offered beautiful flowers abundantly to Gyenze. ~ Alice
Our weekly Dorje Shugden Puja @ 23/3/2024 . William, as the umze is seen here burning incense powder as we are about to recite the Sangsol Prayer to Dorje Shugden composed by Ganden Serkong. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
4 days ago
Our weekly Dorje Shugden Puja @ 23/3/2024 . William, as the umze is seen here burning incense powder as we are about to recite the Sangsol Prayer to Dorje Shugden composed by Ganden Serkong. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
And here's Mr Wong of KSK Ipoh who dropped by to pray and offered some donation to the Chapel. Kechara Penang Study Group. Pic by Siew Hong & uploaded by Jacinta.
2 weeks ago
And here's Mr Wong of KSK Ipoh who dropped by to pray and offered some donation to the Chapel. Kechara Penang Study Group. Pic by Siew Hong & uploaded by Jacinta.
Today's puja (16/3/2024) ended around 420pm, Jacinta was the umze of the day. Pic by Siew Hong. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 weeks ago
Today's puja (16/3/2024) ended around 420pm, Jacinta was the umze of the day. Pic by Siew Hong. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Group photo taken after the last session, sealed with King of Prayers. Come and join us next time! Sayonara - 9-10th March 2024 - Kechara Penang DS Retreat by Jacinta.
2 weeks ago
Group photo taken after the last session, sealed with King of Prayers. Come and join us next time! Sayonara - 9-10th March 2024 - Kechara Penang DS Retreat by Jacinta.
Abundance altar! Fruits, flowers, Mee Koo (traditional Penang buns), Bee Hoon, sourdoughs and snacks are some of the offerings to Rinpoche, Buddhas & Bodhisattvas. Kechara Penang Dorje Shugden Retreat 9-10th March, 2024 by Jacinta.
2 weeks ago
Abundance altar! Fruits, flowers, Mee Koo (traditional Penang buns), Bee Hoon, sourdoughs and snacks are some of the offerings to Rinpoche, Buddhas & Bodhisattvas. Kechara Penang Dorje Shugden Retreat 9-10th March, 2024 by Jacinta.
Siew Hong, one of retreatants and an active member of Kechara Penang group proudly presented her torma to be used during the Kalarupa puja. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 weeks ago
Siew Hong, one of retreatants and an active member of Kechara Penang group proudly presented her torma to be used during the Kalarupa puja. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Torma making was taught by Pastor Seng Piow and held one day before the retreat. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 weeks ago
Torma making was taught by Pastor Seng Piow and held one day before the retreat. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Penang Dorje Shugden Retreat cum Puja, 9-10th March 2024 led by Pastor Seng Piow with 12 retreatants. Uploaded by Jacinta
2 weeks ago
Penang Dorje Shugden Retreat cum Puja, 9-10th March 2024 led by Pastor Seng Piow with 12 retreatants. Uploaded by Jacinta
The celebration ended with a Dorje Shugden puja, dedicated to all the sponsors, our loved ones and as well as for the happiness & good health for all sentient beings. May Rinpoche return swiftly too and taking this opportunity wishing all Happy Chinese New Year and Gong Xi Fa Cai from all of us, Kechara Penang Study Group. Uploaded by Jacinta.
2 months ago
The celebration ended with a Dorje Shugden puja, dedicated to all the sponsors, our loved ones and as well as for the happiness & good health for all sentient beings. May Rinpoche return swiftly too and taking this opportunity wishing all Happy Chinese New Year and Gong Xi Fa Cai from all of us, Kechara Penang Study Group. Uploaded by Jacinta.
Seen here, Pastor Seng Piow set off firecrackers - welcoming of the upcoming year with enthusiasm and positive energy. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 months ago
Seen here, Pastor Seng Piow set off firecrackers - welcoming of the upcoming year with enthusiasm and positive energy. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
In this pic, Pastor Seng Piow is sharing Dharma with newbies ~ Sharyn's friends. It's always good to make light offerings at the beginning of new year. By making light offerings, you are able to dispel the darkness of ignorance and achieve wisdom. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
In this pic, Pastor Seng Piow is sharing Dharma with newbies ~ Sharyn's friends. It's always good to make light offerings at the beginning of new year. By making light offerings, you are able to dispel the darkness of ignorance and achieve wisdom. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
One the day of Losar (new lunar year), it is always beneficial for Buddhist practitioners to get together in making abundant offerings to Buddhas on the altar to usher in goodness, prosperity and well-being of our loved ones. It's more auspicious this year as Losar and the Chinese New Year begin on the same date, 10th Feb, 2024. Back in Penang, our Kechara members came together to decorate the altar with abundance offerings for Dorje Shugden puja @3pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
One the day of Losar (new lunar year), it is always beneficial for Buddhist practitioners to get together in making abundant offerings to Buddhas on the altar to usher in goodness, prosperity and well-being of our loved ones. It's more auspicious this year as Losar and the Chinese New Year begin on the same date, 10th Feb, 2024. Back in Penang, our Kechara members came together to decorate the altar with abundance offerings for Dorje Shugden puja @3pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Mr. Dared Lim was offering water bowls on behalf of Kechara Ipoh Study Group. (Kin Hoe)
2 months ago
Mr. Dared Lim was offering water bowls on behalf of Kechara Ipoh Study Group. (Kin Hoe)
Jun from Ipoh was offering mandarin oranges to Mother Tara and The Three Jewels. (Kin Hoe)
2 months ago
Jun from Ipoh was offering mandarin oranges to Mother Tara and The Three Jewels. (Kin Hoe)
Prior to our puja in Ipoh, Mr. & Mrs. Cheah Fook Wan were preparing for the offerings to the Buddhas. (Kin Hoe)
2 months ago
Prior to our puja in Ipoh, Mr. & Mrs. Cheah Fook Wan were preparing for the offerings to the Buddhas. (Kin Hoe)
On Sunday afternoon, Kechara Ipoh Study Group has carried out Mother Tara prayer recitations in Ipoh. (Kin Hoe)
2 months ago
On Sunday afternoon, Kechara Ipoh Study Group has carried out Mother Tara prayer recitations in Ipoh. (Kin Hoe)
Some of the best shots taken during Thaipusam in Penang. Swee Bee, Huey, Tang KS, Nathan, Choong SH and Jacinta volunteered. Wai Meng came all the way from KL to help out. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 months ago
Some of the best shots taken during Thaipusam in Penang. Swee Bee, Huey, Tang KS, Nathan, Choong SH and Jacinta volunteered. Wai Meng came all the way from KL to help out. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Simple yet powerful ally ~ Bhagawan Dorje Shuden. Kechara Penang Study Group consists of Chien Seong, Hue, Choong SH, Tang KS, Swee Bee and Jacinta. Wai Meng came all the way from KL to help out. Uploaded by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Simple yet powerful ally ~ Bhagawan Dorje Shuden. Kechara Penang Study Group consists of Chien Seong, Hue, Choong SH, Tang KS, Swee Bee and Jacinta. Wai Meng came all the way from KL to help out. Uploaded by Jacinta.
Thaipusam in Penang. Some of the best shots. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 months ago
Thaipusam in Penang. Some of the best shots. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Nothing beats having a sacred audience with our lineage lamas. It's not selfie or wefie, but we have the best 'groufie'!!! 20th Jan 2024, Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Nothing beats having a sacred audience with our lineage lamas. It's not selfie or wefie, but we have the best 'groufie'!!! 20th Jan 2024, Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Welcoming our lineage Gurus to our Penang Chapel today! Pastor Seng Piow explained the significance of having Guru Tree and introduced to us our lineage lamas, Buddhas, deities, protectors and etc.
2 months ago
Welcoming our lineage Gurus to our Penang Chapel today! Pastor Seng Piow explained the significance of having Guru Tree and introduced to us our lineage lamas, Buddhas, deities, protectors and etc.
Umze for the day was Siew Hong. She's just been with us for slightly more than a year now but she's proven her capability in leading the puja. Our Penang group members are so proud of her and her commitment in attending the weekly puja. Despite being eloquence and smart, she has beautiful chant as well. When she leads, make sure you are there to hear her chant for yourself! Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 months ago
Umze for the day was Siew Hong. She's just been with us for slightly more than a year now but she's proven her capability in leading the puja. Our Penang group members are so proud of her and her commitment in attending the weekly puja. Despite being eloquence and smart, she has beautiful chant as well. When she leads, make sure you are there to hear her chant for yourself! Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Umze for the day was Siew Hong. She's just been with us for slightly more than a year now but she's proven her capability in leading the puja. Our Penang group members are so proud of her and her commitment in attending the weekly puja. Despite being eloquence and smart, she has beautiful chant as well. When she leads, make sure you are there to hear her chant for yourself! Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 months ago
Umze for the day was Siew Hong. She's just been with us for slightly more than a year now but she's proven her capability in leading the puja. Our Penang group members are so proud of her and her commitment in attending the weekly puja. Despite being eloquence and smart, she has beautiful chant as well. When she leads, make sure you are there to hear her chant for yourself! Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Tara Recitation is on now at KISG - Wai Meng
3 months ago
Tara Recitation is on now at KISG - Wai Meng
Photo from Wan Wai Meng
3 months ago
Photo from Wan Wai Meng
A sea of yellow ~usually in Tibetan Buddhism yellow represents growth. We prayed that our Penang group will grow in terms of people, wealth and attainments too. _/\_ Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 months ago
A sea of yellow ~usually in Tibetan Buddhism yellow represents growth. We prayed that our Penang group will grow in terms of people, wealth and attainments too. _/_ Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
After Dorje Shugden puja @3pm, we had Rinpoche's Swift Return puja too. We laughed as Sis Swee Bee was commenting that Tang should smile ~ here's the reason why we laughed.  Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta Goh
3 months ago
After Dorje Shugden puja @3pm, we had Rinpoche's Swift Return puja too. We laughed as Sis Swee Bee was commenting that Tang should smile ~ here's the reason why we laughed. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta Goh
3 months ago
Today's (9/12/2023)Dorje Shugden puja led by Gordon. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 months ago
Today's (9/12/2023)Dorje Shugden puja led by Gordon. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
4 months ago
4 months ago
Dharma sharing by Hue before we proceeded with DS puja & Rinpoche Swift Return puja. Hue is one of the long time Kechara Penang members and he comes to puja regularly. He shared that he truly believes that Dorje Shugden and Rinpoche always there guiding him. He shared how sometimes DS will give him hints to avert troubles ahead or to alert him when he 'misbehaved'. Hope many will come to know more about this powerful Dharma Protector, Dorje Shugden aka DS. Having Dorje Shugden is like having a powerful ally that will protect us day and night. Just trust Him and have faith. Kechara Penang Study Group, 25/11/2023 by Jacinta.
4 months ago
Dharma sharing by Hue before we proceeded with DS puja & Rinpoche Swift Return puja. Hue is one of the long time Kechara Penang members and he comes to puja regularly. He shared that he truly believes that Dorje Shugden and Rinpoche always there guiding him. He shared how sometimes DS will give him hints to avert troubles ahead or to alert him when he 'misbehaved'. Hope many will come to know more about this powerful Dharma Protector, Dorje Shugden aka DS. Having Dorje Shugden is like having a powerful ally that will protect us day and night. Just trust Him and have faith. Kechara Penang Study Group, 25/11/2023 by Jacinta.
Kechara Penang Study Group had our weekly DS puja , led by our beloved sis Swee Bee and serkym by Mr. Lee. After that, we completed Swift Return puja also. 18th Nov 2023. By Jacinta
4 months ago
Kechara Penang Study Group had our weekly DS puja , led by our beloved sis Swee Bee and serkym by Mr. Lee. After that, we completed Swift Return puja also. 18th Nov 2023. By Jacinta
#Back2back 11th Nov 2023 Dorje Shugden puja & Rinpoche's Swift Return puja @Penang Chapel, 49 Jalan Seang Tek, Georgetown, Pulau Pinang. Every Saturday @3pm/5pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
5 months ago
#Back2back 11th Nov 2023 Dorje Shugden puja & Rinpoche's Swift Return puja @Penang Chapel, 49 Jalan Seang Tek, Georgetown, Pulau Pinang. Every Saturday @3pm/5pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Pic: Rinpoche Swift Return puja ~ 21/10/23 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
5 months ago
Pic: Rinpoche Swift Return puja ~ 21/10/23 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
#Backtoback A few months back, Kechara Penang Study Group started to have two pujas consecutively on Saturday. Dorje Shugden puja @3pm and thereafter Rinpoche Swift Return puja. This can only be achieved due to the committed members from Penang. A big round of applause...... Pic : DS puja on 21/10/2023 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
5 months ago
#Backtoback A few months back, Kechara Penang Study Group started to have two pujas consecutively on Saturday. Dorje Shugden puja @3pm and thereafter Rinpoche Swift Return puja. This can only be achieved due to the committed members from Penang. A big round of applause...... Pic : DS puja on 21/10/2023 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
More pictures of the day! Kechara Penang Chapel & public blessings 3rd Oct 2023 by Jacinta.
6 months ago
More pictures of the day! Kechara Penang Chapel & public blessings 3rd Oct 2023 by Jacinta.
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Dorje Shugden
Click to watch my talk about Dorje Shugden....