David’s Pilgrimage to India

May 11, 2014 | Views: 1,151

On the 14th – 21st December 2012, a group of 17 Kecharians went on a pilgrimage to India.

Dear friends,

I had requested some of our Kecharians to take their parents to be blessed by going on holy Buddhist pilgrimage. They immediately agreed and were very happy to do so. I thought it would be a good way for some of our members to repay the kindness of their parents to take them for pilgrimage. Many high and great masters have expounded the many benefits of going for pilgrimage so therefore it is important to go at least once in our lifetime. It’s wonderful we can physically take care of our parents, but spiritually taking care of them is equally important. We must endeavor to do so by our own example and gaining the trust of our parents and other significant persons in our life for this pilgrimage.

I have asked Pastor David Lai to write an account of this and guess what, it was back logged and now I am publishing it. Better late than never as the old adage goes. Nevertheless what Pastor David succinctly shares is timeless, moving, accurate, historical as well as beautiful. You must read what he has written. I saw the potential in him to be a great writer when I first met him and I still believe in his talent as attested here and his personal (http://www.davidlai.me/) blog. He has a wonderful way with words what is natural and inborn. You will be delighted and laugh at his account and be touched by the love he has for his dad who went on this pilgrimage. This is a great travelogue account in fact. Also much historical information is shared by Pastor David too. This is a must read.

This is a must read for those who wish to visit the holy sites. Who cannot make it and or who have gone already. Bodhgaya is the very place Lord Buddha attained full enlightenment and therefore highly significant.

Do enjoy and be blessed.

Tsem Rinpoche

 


 

Walking After the Buddha

written by David Lai

 

The first view of the Mahabodhi Stupa when I arrived at the temple grounds.

 

A few months ago, Rinpoche suggested that I take my father on a pilgrimage trip along with 15 other pilgrims to Bodhgaya. The very thought of going on a pilgrimage brought back a flood of memories from my last trip to Bodhgaya 8 years ago with H. E. Tsem Rinpoche. The old Stupa, the Bodhi tree, the Buddha statue, the monks and pilgrims with the sound of their beautiful chanting and kneeling under the Bodhi tree to receive refuge from H. E. Tsem Rinpoche are some of the images that came rushing back to me.

This time around, it would not be Rinpoche leading us on this pilgrimage but Liaison Paul Yap. I was really excited and looked forward to this sacred journey back to the land of the Buddha. I think this trip was made extra special by the fact that I get to take my dad, who had been a devout Buddhist for many years. I am very happy to have this honor because the pilgrimage would be a powerful blessing for his future rebirths because of the powerful blessing that was left there by the Buddha.

Before going on pilgrimage with Rinpoche, I had never really known what pilgrimage was all about. I used to think that it was just another glorified holiday through locations with spiritual or archaeological significance. I am glad to be able to dismiss that as I learnt the true meaning of a Buddhist pilgrimage. In essence, it is a journey to power places that the Buddha or any other holy being had resided or performed enlightened actions in order to create a powerful blessing with the spiritual energy left there. The blessing can open up our merits from past lives to delve deeper into our spiritual practice and to embed even more spiritual seeds into our mind streams.

According to Rinpoche, there are 4 great locations associated with the Buddha and they are Lumbini, Bodhgaya, Sarnath and Kushinagar. These places correspond to the birth, enlightenment, first turning of the wheel of the Dharma and Parinirvana (passing) of the Buddha. It is mentioned in the Buddhist scriptures that the Buddhas of the past and the future ages would appear to perform enlightened deeds at these locations again.

Hence, Buddhists flock to these power places to gain a powerful blessing and to create the causes to meet future Buddhas and to receive teachings from them in future rebirths. In fact, the Buddha himself had recommended visiting these power places for future practitioners. That is why it is a goal for every devout Buddhist to go on pilgrimage to these holy places. For me, that made a lot of sense and I am glad that I managed to bring my father to these power places.

Here are some highlights from this pilgrimage that I went with my dad:

 

 

Bodhgaya

A majestic sight of the soaring spires of Mahabodhi Stupa.

 

An ancient Indian Buddhist saint by the name of Asvagosha called Bodhgaya, ‘The Navel of the World.’ I can see why because this is the place where Lord Buddha attained full enlightenment under the sacred Bodhi tree. An ancient Buddhist king Ashoka built a temple on the very spot and also a stone fence railing surrounding the compound of the temple and the Bodhi tree. It is the most important Buddhist pilgrimage site in the world.

In the 12th Century, floods buried the courtyard of the temple in silt and over time, the temple lay buried and forgotten. It was rediscovered in the 19th Century by Sir Alexander Cunningham and was duly excavated and restored. Just outside of the courtyard lay a garden of ruined stupas and other votive shrines and temples that surround the main temple like a sacred Mandala. There is a circumambulation path that surrounds the outer compound allowing for a breathtaking view of the temple, as one would follow the other pilgrims on a devotional circuit around the temple.

The temple compound comes alive with the shuffling of pilgrims going about on their devotional rounds. Some pilgrims sit meditating in contemplative silence while other pilgrims chant Buddhist mantras and other devotional verses in a low murmur lending an air of sacredness to the temple. The majority of the pilgrims are monks and thus, bathing the compound with a sea of maroon. In the space between smaller stupas and shrines, a sea of monks and lay pilgrims prostrate on rectangular planks towards the temple itself. The ancient stupas, the pilgrims, the sound of mantras and presence of the monks imbue the place with a sense of peace and devotion.

While I rest on my circumambulation rounds, I love to sit by the stone railing to do my mantras and stare up the outer wall lined with little alcoves bearing Buddha images rendered in bas-relief. Buddhas like Shakyamuni, Avalokiteshvara, Tara, Manjushri and other enlightened figures gaze down benevolently onto the shuffling pilgrims. However, a personal favorite is the Manjushri that’s just next to the Bodhi tree. It is a simple Indian figure that I wish I could cart back home to have on my own personal shrine. My other favorite Buddha statue is the actual statue of Buddha Shakyamuni enshrined within the temple itself.

 

A caretaker monk carefully offers our robes onto Lord Buddha.

 

According to Rinpoche, this statue was made 60 years after the Buddha’s parinirvana by one of Lord Buddha’s female disciples. The statue is actually made of black stone but has since been covered with a layer of gold by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. This statue is said to be the closest resemblance to Lord Buddha and so, it was very fortunate for my dad and myself to have the honor to offer robes to the statue and it felt like we were offering it to Lord Buddha himself when the caretaker monk very quickly and skillfully placed the robes on.

 

The Vajrasana or the golden seat of Buddha’s enlightenment.

 

Even holier than the statue is the exact spot where the Buddha sat on and achieved full enlightenment that Buddhists call the Vajrassana. King Ashoka built a raised stone platform in veneration of this sacred spot. In recent times, a stone fence had been built surrounding the tree probably in fear of vandalism. So, the tree is locked away behind the stone fence and so we have to place our head onto the stone fence to glean a blessing from this sacred spot.

There are 7 spots within the compound of the temple that is especially sacred because it was at these spots that the Buddha spent a week each, meditating after attaining enlightenment. The first week was spent meditating under the Bodhi tree. Then, on the second week, the Buddha was meditating on the spot where the Animeshlochana Chaitya stands while gazing at the Bodhi tree without blinking. The third week, he was at the Ratnachankrama or Jewel walk where the Buddha spent the week in a contemplative walk. Then, the Buddha spent the fourth week at the Ratnaghar Chaitya where the Buddha reflected on higher aspects of reality. It was said that blue, yellow, red, white and orange rays of light emanated from the Buddha’s body while he meditated. Therefore, the Buddhist flags displays these colors.

The fifth week, the Buddha meditated in the east near the main entrance of the temple today. At this location and in response to query by a wanderer, he explained that it was by the merit of one’s deeds and not the virtue of one’s birth that makes a Brahman. On the sixth week, the Buddha meditated at the area of the Muchhalinda pond south of the temple. There was a great shower of rain, and the Naga king, Muchhalinda sheltered the Buddha by winding his coils seven times round the Buddha’s body and holding his hood over the Buddha’s head. Finally, the seventh week was spent in the southeast meditating under the Rajyatna tree where he also taught. These are all wonderful locations but I spent most of my time under the Bodhi tree.

The marble pathway surrounding the temple is remarkably clean of any leaves that may have fallen from the sacred Bodhi tree. This is because faithful pilgrims would quickly snatch any leaf that falls off the tree. Any leaf from the tree is considered a living relic of the Buddha’s enlightenment. Although this Bodhi tree is not the original tree from the Buddha’s time because the original have since been uprooted but the current tree was replanted from a sapling taken from a living descendent of the exact Bodhi tree in Sri Lanka.

After an hour waiting for a leaf to fall, I gave up and decided to focus on my prayers instead. If you are really desperate for a leaf, you could talk to any one of the little Sinhalese monks that wander about the temple. They might offer you a leaf but there’s no guarantee that it’s the leaf from the exact Bodhi tree. Besides the Mahabodhi Stupa, Bodhgaya is also the home to many temples from different Buddhist traditions.

We took a tour of the Japanese, Chinese, Bhutanese, Thai, Taiwanese and Tibetan temples. I must say that I found the Bhutanese temple to be particularly breath taking with its ornately decorated interior. I loved the fact that they had carved stucco figures protruding from the walls to depict the Buddha’s life story. Nonetheless, we did also stop by the 80-feet Buddha statue, one of the main stops for pilgrims who come to Bodhgaya to make prayers and have our customary pilgrim photos taken.

 

Dungeshwari (Mahakala Caves)

The entrance to Lord Buddha’s meditational cave

 

Lying against the rugged terrain of the mountains outside of Bodhgaya, a stone path leads up a flight of steps to several small Tibetan monasteries crowding the little space by a cliff. On the higher platform lies a cave that was traditional believed by some to be the location where the Buddha spent 6 years engaged in various ascetic practices that left him emaciated. The statue of the fasting Buddha in the cave immortalizes this period of the Buddha’s life.

 

The statue of the Fasting Buddha within the cave.

 

According to Rinpoche, the fasting Buddha has a special blessing and inspiration for us to achieve unshakeable faith and perseverance in our practice. This image of the Buddha holds particular relevance for the modern practitioner beset with tremendous distractions and a multitude of obstacles that can potentially derail us from our spiritual path. However, Rinpoche said that the Buddha did not reside here for the entire duration of the 6 years and the actual location is at a place known to the Tibetans as Lotrugawa by the banks of the Niranjana River. Nonetheless, we made our offerings, mantras and prayers here and moved on to the other locations.

 

Sujata Stupa and Temple.

The shrine at Sujata’s temple to Lord Buddha and Sujata kneels towards the right side of Lord Buddha.

 

Sujata Temple is actually a little shrine dedicated to the spot traditionally believed to be where the local herds’ maid Sujata had offered the emaciated Buddha his first meal of milk rice and honey.

After 6 years of engaging in strict practices, the Buddha realized the futility of these practices and decided to follow a middle way. Therefore, he accepted Sujata’s offering at this location. Realizing this significance, I told the pilgrims to make offerings at Sujata’s shrine to pray for the merit to provide for the Dharma (financially or in any other way) in much the same way as Sujata’s offering provided sustenance to the Buddha. It is said that it is exceptionally meritorious for Sujata to make this offering to the Buddha just before he attained enlightenment.

Not too far away lies a commemorative Stupa built by King Ashoka in honor of Sujata’s offering. We didn’t really do much at the Stupa but instead took a ride down to Lutrugawa.

 

Lutrugawa

This is the place Tibetans would come on a pilgrimage in memory of the spot where Lord Buddha engaged in his 6 years of ascetic practices. There are no ancient temples or shrines here except for a recently built platform in memory of the Buddha’s sheer determination to gain enlightenment. Therefore, the pilgrims stood by the platform and recited the King of Prayers here to plant powerful aspirations.

 

The spot believed to be where Lord Buddha performed ascetic practices.

 

This location seemed the most probable considering the fact that it lay near the spot where he met Sujata and also the Niranjana River. It is believed that after he completed his first meal, the Buddha took the bowl and placed it in the river. He prayed and requested for an omen that if he was on the right path towards attaining enlightenment. When the Buddha released the bowl, it miraculously flowed upstream against the tide of the flowing water. I love this location because it is off the beaten path of tourists and regular pilgrims. At the time we were here, there were no other pilgrims, allowing us space and leisure to perform our prayers and offerings.

 

Vaishali & Kesariya

The ruined remains of the Stupa at Vaishali.

 

At Vaishali, we visited 3 stupas, the first stupa is just the ruined remains of a Stupa destroyed by the Muslim horde. This is one of the many stupas that the Lichchhavis, the ancient kings of Vaishali had enshrined the sacred relics of Lord Buddha. After the passing of the Buddha, the relics were divided equally amongst the 8 Buddhist kings and the share that the Lichchhavis had received was divided into 13 Stupas built throughout Vaishali. Today, only 7 Stupa ruins have been unearthed.

The second Vaishali Stupa we visited was better preserved along with the Ashokan pillar with its lion pointing towards the direction Lord Buddha had left after giving his last teaching. This old stupa look imposing amongst the ruins and it was a good introduction to the ancient Indian architectural style, which was very different from the Tibetan, or even the Chinese architectural styles. I felt transported back in time to the reign of the Licchavi kings. Vaishali is noted to be where the Buddha laid down many of the Vinaya rules that the Buddhist monks adhere to and that’s why there is a profusion of monastic ruins surrounding the stupa. The Second Buddhist Council of the Sangha was held here in Vaishali a century after the passing of the Buddha to straighten out competing interpretations of the Vinaya rules. I could just image a grand procession of Indian monks and arhats adorned with their saffron-coloured robes passing through.

 

One of the monastic ruins was in the shape of a swastika (when viewed at bird’s eye view) and is believed to be the ruins of a nunnery that was built in honor of where the Buddha had ordained his foster mother, Mahaprajapati Gotami along with 500 other Shakyan women. Those who aspired to be nuns felt that this was a particularly significant location and took their time to make special prayers here to be a good nuns when they receives their Bhikshuni (nun) vows. I made my prayers here too but not to be a nun but to hold my vows and commitments strongly.

 

The excavated remains of the mammoth Kesariya Stupa.

 

At Kesariya (known as Kessaputta during the Buddha’s time), we came to the site of the mammoth Stupa, whose size rivaled the Borobuddur in its heyday. However, it is in a dilapidated state today and it’s just a shadow of what it once was. King Ashoka built the Stupa over a pre-existing smaller stupa erected by the Lichchhavis who were given the Buddha’s alms bowl at this spot to prevent them from following him as he walked for the last time towards Kushinagar. This massive stupa would become the prototype for Indonesia’s Borobuddur Stupa. I couldn’t help but marvel at the devotion and engineering feat of constructing such huge structures with just primitive tools.

 

 

Vulture’s Peak

A simple shrine at Vulture’s Peak.

 

For Mahayana Buddhists, Vulture’s Peak or Griddhakuta Hill is amongst the holiest sites because it was where the Buddha had requested the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara to expound on the profound teaching on emptiness. This teaching is forever immortalized in the Heart Sutra.

The peak itself is reachable through a long walk up a stone path lined with peddlers, beggars and porters carrying older pilgrims on sling-like litters suspended on thick bamboo poles. Peddlers sell walking sticks that come in rather handy for braving the steep steps up. I got my dad one as we began ascending up into the hill. Thank Buddha for the very kind Japanese who built the stone path for making the site accessible to pilgrims, as the terrain was treacherous. As we get closer up to the peak, we come across caves that are believed to be Ananda and Shariputra’s meditational caves. We marched on and only did our prayers at the caves when we descended later.

 

The sweeping view from Vulture’s Peak.

 

The sweeping view at the peak was spectacular and its no wonder the Buddha enjoyed engaging in retreats and teachings here. The actual site is just a nondescript platform with a lot of offerings left by pilgrims. There were enough room for all 17 of us pilgrims to sit to do our recitations and prayers. Needless to say, we had to recite the Heart Sutra to invoke the blessings of the Buddha and Avalokiteshvara to gain realization into the most profound of teachings.

 

Nalanda Ruins & Museum

Not too far from Vulture’s Peak, we came to what looked like a park. It has large flat grassy lawn with a path lined with trees. The path leads to the ruined remains of the famous medieval Nalanda monastery. Nalanda monastery was the oldest and greatest university in the ancient world. It began as a Buddhist monastery and grew to become an institution of great learning, not just of Buddhism but the arts, sciences, medicine and philosophy. This great institution was famed throughout the ancient world and attracted scholars, translators and practitioners from all over India, Tibet, Persia, China and Greece.

 

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The modest entrance to the ruins of the great Nalanda Monastery.

 

Nalanda was founded in the 5th Century over the site where the Buddha often came to reside with his chief disciples Shariputra and Moggallana. It is said that Shariputra attained Nirvana here. The most imposing structure in the excavated site is Shariputra’s Stupa. The whole university covers over 14 hectares or 34.6 acres across the flat landscape of the area but the excavated site covers only a small fraction of the entire complex. What remains of the gate is a modest entrance into a city-like brick landscape of passages, stairs, broken pillars, platforms, meditational cells, halls, latrines and temples.

 

A panoramic view of the ruins from a platform at Nalanda.

 

According to history records, the gatekeepers of the monastery are learned scholars and they would only permit entry to the monastery to those who could answer their riddles. I went into one of the meditational cells and sat on the stone beds and could hardly stifle my amazement of being at the very place Buddhadharma was expounded and debated upon. I thought I could be sitting on the very bed that any of the great Indian pandits of old like Nagarjuna, Aryadeva, Dharmakirti, Chandrakirti or Shantarakshita had slept. In fact, many of the famous Mahasiddhas were once great students of this monastery. Before moving on, I managed to recite a few prayers.

 

The imposing view of Shariputra’s Stupa.

 

The immensity of the monastery lend an awe-inspiring feeling of how great this massive institution once was, much in the same way I had felt in Gaden monastery. In fact, Lama Tsongkhapa modeled Gaden after the monastic system that was developed here. The great monasteries of Lama Tsongkhapa like Gaden, Sera and Drepung had over the centuries produced countless great yogis, scholars and monks. The propagation and preservation of the Buddhadharma owes much to these great institutions. I felt sad that the Muslim invasion destroyed Nalanda and with it; Buddhism was systematically wiped out from India.

Not far from the ruins, the Indian government had established a Nalanda museum to exhibit precious statues and artifacts excavated from the ruins. The statues and artifacts offer a glimpse into the devotional world of the ancient monastic life of Nalanda. There are statues of the Buddha, Tara, Manjushri and a plethora of Tantric deities that are living proof that the great Tantric traditions of Tibet originated here and were brought over to Tibet.

 

 

Sarnath

Next, we traveled to the ancient city of Varanasi and not far from the city is the famous Sarnath deer park. This is where the Buddha traveled to after attaining enlightenment in search of his 5 companions who had abandoned him.

 

The huge Dhamekh Stupa dominates the landscape at Sarnath.

 

It was in Sarnath that the Buddha met with the 5 ascetics again and he turned the wheel of the Dharma for the first time when he taught them the 4 Noble Truths. Thus, the Sangha was founded in this park and, a big stupa was built along with surrounding monasteries and temples. There are 2 stupas but only one survives and the surviving stupa is called Dhamekh Stupa. It was built over the site believed to be where the Buddha taught the 5 ascetics.

The other stupa, Dharmarajika sadly had been dismantled by the officer of the Maharaja of Varanasi who was looking for building materials in the 18th Century. Just next to the site of the Dharmarajika Stupa is the site where Lord Buddha was said to have meditated while in Sarnath. A huge temple was built over this site and was known as the Mulagandhakuti. However, it was sad that the temple complex has since been destroyed by the first Muslim invasion in the 12th century.

Just a stone’s throw from Sarnath is the archaeological museum with perhaps the best exhibition of a large collection of statues and artifacts discovered amongst the ruins of Sarnath. The Buddha statues exhibited are some of the finest I have ever seen of the surviving images of the Buddha in India. I can’t help but marvel at the artistry and devotion of the ancient Indians who carved these magnificent statues. The 4-lion capital of the Ashokan pillar in Sarnath is exhibited in this museum as well and since independence, it has become the symbol of the Indian government.

 

The finest statue of Lord Buddha at Sarnath Museum

 

Kushinagar

This is the final resting place of Lord Buddha and one of the 4 great power places that includes Lumbini, Sarnath and Bodhgaya. Lord Buddha arrived at Kushinagar and gave his last teaching before succumbing to his illness at Kushinagar. It was believed that the Buddha had partaken meat and some sources said that it was a type of truffle that may have caused his untimely demise. The Buddha immediately knew the food was bad and told Ananda to bury the remaining food so nobody would eat it.

 

A group shot of the pilgrims in front of the Mahaparinirvan Temple.

 

Finally, the Buddha passed into Parinirvana and a funeral pyre was built but the wood mysteriously wouldn’t burn. Meanwhile, one of the Buddha’s chief disciples, Mahakasyapa was rushing back to pay his last respects. Only when Mahakasyapa lit the funerary pyre did the wood start to burn. King Ashoka later built a Stupa called Ramabhar Stupa over the site of the funerary pyre and it enshrines some of the Buddha’s relics within it. The spot where the Buddha had entered Parinirvana and it is also the site of the Mahaparinirvan temple dedicated to the Buddha’s passing.

 

The 6-feet long statue of the reclining Buddha and the red cloth was collectively offered by the 17 pilgrims.

 

This temple was rebuilt by the Indian government and enshrined within the temple is a 6-meter ancient statue of the reclining Buddha. All 17 pilgrims bought a large piece of silk robe to offer onto the Buddha statue and we circumambulated 3 times before sitting down to recite the King of Prayers and a powerful recitation of Rinpoche’s long life mantra. Rinpoche did explain once that coming on a pilgrimage to Kushinagar has the effect of extending our lives. The statue is originally black in color but is golden because numerous pilgrims have offered gold leaf onto it. The temple felt somber probably because the entire compound was shrouded in mist when we visited that morning and that the pilgrimage was coming to an end.

 

This slender image of Lord Buddha stands at the Mathakuar Shrine.

 

Just before leaving the temple, we stopped by a very special Mathakuar Shrine. In it has a carved image of Buddha Shakyamuni. Apparently, this is the site from where the Buddha delivered his final teaching. It is also the spot from where the Buddha requested Ananda to fetch water from the nearby river because he was thirsty. Ananda failed to deliver the water because it was made very muddy by passing cattle but the Buddha requested again and on the third request, Ananda miraculously managed to deliver crystal clear water. This is clearly a great teaching by the Buddha on the joyous perseverance in carrying out the instructions of our spiritual guides will bring tremendous beneficial results. I believe that Ananda not only managed to bring crystal water for the Buddha to drink but managed to create the tremendous cause to clear mental obscurations through this simple offering due to his faith and effort. This is the last holy site on our whirlwind pilgrimage and a powerful final teaching for us.

 


Videos of the Bodhgaya Pilgrimage:

 

Part 1

 

Part 2

 

Part 3

 

Part 4

 
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10 Responses to David’s Pilgrimage to India

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  1. Pastor Elena Khong Jean Ai on Dec 3, 2015 at 2:59 am

    Just to elaborate a little on what Pastor David wrote here, “It is mentioned in the Buddhist scriptures that the Buddhas of the past and the future ages would appear to perform enlightened deeds at these locations again.” – in past conversations, whenever this point has been brought up, people usually ask, but what happens if the earth explodes and is destroyed? How will future Buddhas come back to that spot?

    What Rinpoche explained to us is that it is that point in the *space* where the future Buddhas will appear and through the karma of the beings at the time, something will manifest there in order for the Buddhas to appear. So it’s not a geographical location on earth that Pastor David is referring to, but rather an actual point in space where these future Buddhas will appear.

    When Rinpoche took the first group of pilgrims to Bodhgaya in 2004, we were given this book of prayers to carry with us. Rinpoche reminded us through the trip (which Pastor David has captured in his writing) that visiting Bodhgaya and other pilgrimage sites is not any other holiday. You don’t go there to indulge, to take selfies, to brag to your friends about your latest trip to a trendy destination. When we go on pilgrimage to holy sites, we visit them to make a connection with the Buddha and future Buddhas to come so we may meet with them and their teachings in all our future lives.

    Rinpoche said what makes these sites holy is that they are imbued with the energy of enlightened activity, of practice and people holding vows. Rinpoche asked us to consider, why is it out of all the points in the universe, Shakyamuni (and past and future Buddhas) chose to achieve enlightenment at that exact spot?

    One more piece of advice that Rinpoche gave to us, which some may find helpful and has stuck with me to this day: when we are circumambulating holy sites, we shouldn’t talk or gossip or be playful. Instead, Rinpoche asked us to visualise that we are walking to go and see Lord Buddha, and to recite mantras as we do so. In this way, our body (the act of walking), mind (the act of visualisation) and speech (reciting mantras) are all engaged in making merits. Rinpoche told us this would be the best way to get the most benefit out of our pilgrimages.

    Pastor David and Uncle Lai were very lucky to be able to visit these holy sites (yes, it’s being said with a little bit of jealousy hehe). May KFR become a place like this for others _/|\_ which is totally possible if you think about it. Since a place is made holy by virtue of the activities carried out in that location, in order to make KFR holy we should conduct activities befitting of the Three Jewels.

    Speaking of holy activities, I like the fact Pastor David likes places that are spiritual, and less crowded and less popular because it gives him more time to spend doing his prayers there 🙂 if people read carefully, at every location, he mentions that he grabbed the opportunity to recite prayers whenever he could. This is actually a really comprehensive, well-documented post on various pilgrimage sites, something that everyone should read before they embark on their own pilgrimage. Pastor David, you should make a book out of this!

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  2. sandra on Mar 12, 2015 at 8:43 pm

    Extremely fortunate people to engage in the pilgrimage to the holy places in India. Lucky David and dad and friends. I want to take my parents to Bodhgaya pilgrimage too.

  3. Wan Wai Meng on Jul 11, 2014 at 1:34 am

    We are very blessed to read about the four major places of Buddha Shakyamuni time on this earth. Special thanks to David who made us feel as if while we read this we are transported to such places actually being there. All buddhist should make a special trip to be in such power places that can bless out mindstreams.

  4. Steven Koh Wing Gok on Jul 1, 2014 at 8:43 pm

    Dear Guru Rinpoche,
    Million of thank you and David.
    it was a perfect pilgrimages journey.
    When is the next pilgrimage arrangement?
    Kindly let me know, look forward.

  5. Gopinath Ulaganathan on May 28, 2014 at 9:42 pm

    A beautiful expereince indeed visiting The Great Mother India .

  6. tenzinkhenchen on May 27, 2014 at 9:45 pm

    Thank you for sharing uncle david’s experiences. I went to Bodhgaya to see the Bodhi Tree and it was amazing. I didn’t know there were so many more places to visit. Will do that next time.

  7. Shelly tai on May 20, 2014 at 4:30 pm

    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this write up about India pilgrimage . I would said Pastor David has explain it very detail and all the sited is very holy and beautiful . By looking into the picture I can imagine the greatness of the Dharma and I wish in a very near future I can visit all these holy site.

  8. Uncle Lai on May 19, 2014 at 2:19 pm

    Dear Rinpoche,

    Thank you for publishing the Pilgrimage Tour 2012. It is very nice and I love it. Is almost 2 years now since we came back. What we saw and heard is almost forgotten. How wonderful we can read and watch the whole tour again.

    Thank you David for writing a full account of all the power places. I agree with Rinpoche you write very well and detail.

    Also thank you to Ms Han for video recorded the whole tour, is simply beautiful. I like it very much.

    Once again thank you Rinpoche for your kindness and care for us.

  9. ron wong on May 14, 2014 at 6:52 pm

    Thank you David for that very powerful coverage of your pilgrimage tour to one of the Holiest site in the world. I was fully captivated by your description & detail explanation of every holy sites of the pilgrimage. It was as if I was just tagging along with the group every step of the way. You have made the Buddha’s story even more interesting to read with the details accounts of every major events that happened along the path. Like the story of Ananda who miraculously managed to collect crystal clear water for Buddha to drink despite of the water being muddy. Stories like these has further increase my faith & inner strength to continue my practice with joyous effort & perseverance. I am greatly inspire to visit these holy sites & looking forward to the next pilgrimage to be organized soon.

    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this post.

  10. Pastor David Lai on May 13, 2014 at 3:34 am

    Dear Rinpoche,

    Thank you for the most spectacular of pilgrimages. It was an honor to bring my dad and a great learning experience along the way. The journey was comfortable and very spiritual for my dad and I. I hope one day to bring my mom and dad – hopefully within this life.

    Also thank you for the compliment on my writing. I look forward to writing more and will be planning future books as well. I think my style is to evoke people to the sights and feelings of the place although it was mostly my own silly impressions and memories. I hope this little piece would encourage people to embark on their very own pilgrimage.

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Blog Chat

BLOG CHAT

Dear blog friends,

I’ve created this section for all of you to share your opinions, thoughts and feelings about whatever interests you.

Everyone has a different perspective, so this section is for you.

Tsem Rinpoche


SCHEDULED CHAT SESSIONS / 聊天室时间表

(除了每个月的第一个星期五)
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UPCOMING TOPICS FOR MARCH / 三月份讨论主题

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Give the room a chance to answer you. Patience is a virtue. And if after awhile, people don't respond, perhaps they don't know the answer or they did not see your question. Do ask again or address someone directly. Do not be offended if people do not or are unable to respond to you.

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This is the blog of H.E. Tsem Rinpoche. Please respect this space. We request that all participants here are respectful of H.E. Tsem Rinpoche and his organisation, Kechara.

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Avoid the use of language or attitudes which may be offensive to others. If someone is disrespectful to you, ignore them instead of arguing with them.

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Please let this be a conducive space for discussions, both light and profound.

KECHARA FOREST RETREAT PROGRESS UPDATES

Here is the latest news and pictorial updates, as it happens, of our upcoming forest retreat project.

The Kechara Forest Retreat is a unique holistic retreat centre focused on the total wellness of body, mind and spirit. This is a place where families and individuals will find peace, nourishment and inspiration in a natural forest environment. At Kechara Forest Retreat, we are committed to give back to society through instilling the next generation with universal positive values such as kindness and compassion.

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

Noticeboard

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  • 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.
  • Samfoonheei
    Thursday, Jan 4. 2024 04:11 PM
    Lama Tsongkhapa was an influential Tibetan Buddhist monk, philosopher and tantric yogi, whose activities led to the formation of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism . Lama Tsongkhapa was hailed as the second Buddha by contemporary Buddhist masters of his time. Famous for reviving Buddhism in Tibet and revered for elevating the Dharma to all its present glory. Hence having a 12 ft Lama Tsongkhapa Statue at new Kechara Gompa (Prayer Hall) is indeed a blessing. Its truly beautiful. Merely by looking at it is a blessing .
    Thank you Rinpoche and team effort making it possible.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/kechara-13-depts/10-ft-tsongkapa-here.html

1 · 2 · 3 · 4 · 5 · »

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I must thank my dharma blog team who are great assets to me, Kechara and growth of dharma in this wonderful region. I am honoured and thrilled to work with them. I really am. Maybe I don't say it enough to them, but I am saying it now. I APPRECIATE THESE GUYS VERY MUCH!

Tsem Rinpoche

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The Unknown

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,
So go pursue all the way with the unknown,
because all unknown with familiarity becomes the known.
~Tsem Rinpoche

Photos On The Go

Click on the images to view the bigger version. And scroll down and click on "View All Photos" to view more images.
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
108 candles and sang (incense) offered at our Wish-Fulfilling Grotto, invoking Dorje Shugden\'s blessings for friends, sponsors and supporters, wonderful!
4 years ago
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
4 years ago
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
4 years ago
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!
4 years ago
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.
4 years ago
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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CHAT PICTURES

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 days 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 days 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.
6 days 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.
7 days 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
7 days 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
7 days 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
7 days 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.
1 month 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
1 month 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.
1 month 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.
1 month 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)
1 month 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)
1 month 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)
1 month 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)
1 month 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.
2 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.
2 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.
3 months ago
3 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.
4 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.
5 months ago
More pictures of the day! Kechara Penang Chapel & public blessings 3rd Oct 2023 by Jacinta.
Some pictures of the public blessings taken right after the puja was completed by the monks. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta. 3rd Oct 2023.
5 months ago
Some pictures of the public blessings taken right after the puja was completed by the monks. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta. 3rd Oct 2023.
3rd Oct 2023, Tibetan monks came to Kechara Penang for chapel & public blessing, in conjunction with the arrival of H. E Tsem Rinpoche's holy statue. Thanks to Pastor Henry & Pastor Seng Piow, who guided us throughout the event. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
5 months ago
3rd Oct 2023, Tibetan monks came to Kechara Penang for chapel & public blessing, in conjunction with the arrival of H. E Tsem Rinpoche's holy statue. Thanks to Pastor Henry & Pastor Seng Piow, who guided us throughout the event. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Tsem Rinpoche's holy statue is here! 3rd Oct 2023. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
5 months ago
Tsem Rinpoche's holy statue is here! 3rd Oct 2023. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
29th Sept 2023. Kechara Penang Dorje Shugden puja adjourned at 4.30pm with 9 attendees. Thereafter, a Rinpoche Swift Return puja was completed too. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
5 months ago
29th Sept 2023. Kechara Penang Dorje Shugden puja adjourned at 4.30pm with 9 attendees. Thereafter, a Rinpoche Swift Return puja was completed too. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
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Dorje Shugden
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