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“Beyond meditation practice, there is attitude.” - Master Xuyun, Stages of Development and Difficulties

“Beyond meditation practice, there is attitude.” – Master Xuyun, Stages of Development and Difficulties

(By Tsem Rinpoche and Pastor Adeline)

In the mid-19th century, in Fujian, Qing China, a woman from the Xiao family gave birth to a bag of flesh. From this flesh was born the baby Master Xuyun (Simplified Chinese: 虚云). Having given birth to a bag of flesh, his mother was frightened and overwhelmed with desperation. She passed away not long after having given birth. An old man who sold medicine managed to solve the mystery the day after the birth. He cut open the bag of flesh and took out the baby boy. He was named Xiao Guyan (Simplified Chinese: 萧古岩), and he was to become one of the most influential Chan Buddhist masters of the 19th and 20th centuries.

The dates of Master Xuyun’s (hereafter referred as “Xuyun”) life are highly controversial ( ? – 13 October 1959), and dates of the significant events of his life are listed differently in various written works. While many of his followers believed that Xuyun lived up to roughly 119 years of age, in which case he may have been born on 26th August 1840 as listed in some sources, research done by Buddhist and Chinese scholars show that he could have lived to between 93 to 100 years. Regardless of the length of his life, the great achievements he accomplished throughout his life continue to inspire many.


 

Early Years

Fresco of Tankasri Avalokitesvara in Dunhuang cave

Fresco of Tankasri Avalokitesvara in Dunhuang cave

When Xuyun was 11 years old, his grandmother decided that he should be married to two Hunanese girls from the Tian and Tan families in order to continue the family lineage. These two families had been friends of the Xiao family for many generations. Before the arrangements of the marriage could be completed, Xuyun’s grandmother passed away during a bad winter. Xuyun was 13 years old at the time. The family held a funeral following Buddhist rites, which was to be Xuyun’s first encounter with Buddhist scripture. Thereafter, Xuyun began reading Buddhist texts from the family library in his house. The story of the ‘Fragrant Mountain’ and Avalokitesvara’s attainments, in particular, had great influence upon Xuyun’s mind.

Three years after Xuyun’s first visit to Nanyue Monastery, at the age of 17, he intended to leave home to join the sangha. In order to keep Xuyun at home, his dad hired a Daoist practitioner to teach him Daoist yogas. Although he was not interested in the teachings, he continued to pretend he was interested in order to make the family happy. After three years, he decided to leave home and make his way to Nanyue, but was found half way by a man sent to find him and bring him back home. Xuyun was then forced to marry the two girls who were previous picked by his grandmother, from the Tian and Tan families. Instead of living an ordinary married life, Xuyun shared dharma with them and they became spiritual companions.

When he was 19, Xuyun decided to flee home with his cousin Fuguo who shared a similar interest to join the sangha, this time to Yongquan Monastery on Gu Shan (Mount Drum) in Fuzhou. He left behind the “Song of the Skin Bag” for his two wives and had his head shaven by Master Changkai. The next year, he received full ordination from Master Miaolian on Gu Shan and was given the name Guyan (Simplified Chinese: 古岩) together with the aliases Yanche (Simplified Chinese: 演彻) and Deqing (Simplified Chinese: 德清). His cousin Fuguo on the other hand left to search for his master after their ordination, and they never heard from each other ever again. Knowing his son’s temperament, Xuyun’s father sent people to search for him again. In order not to be found and taken back home, he hid in a grotto behind the mountain, where he was occasionally visited by tigers and wolves. He spent three years in the grotto performing purification retreats while observing the rules of repentance and purification.

Gu Shan Yongquan Monastery in 1884

Gu Shan Yongquan Monastery in 1884

One day, a monk from Gu Shan went to see Xuyun and said, “There is no need for you to hide now as your old father has retired on account of his age and he has left for home. The elderly Master Miaolian has praised your long austerities but said that, in addition to wisdom, you should cultivate the blessing that arises from altruistic activities. You can return to the mountain temple, take up a post and serve others.” Upon receiving the message from Miaolian, Xuyun returned to the monastery and joined the sangha.

Xuyun’s father passed away when he was 25. His stepmother and his two wives left home to become nuns two years after that. For four years in the monastery, Xuyun engaged in the austere roles of a water-man, gardener, hall-keeper and caretaker. He was occasionally given comparatively easier roles but he turned them down. He also refused to receive the share of any donations that were given to him. His health was robust although he only ate one mug of rice-gruel a day.

Xuyun was very much inspired by the practice of austerities and in particular the training that Master Xuanzang (Simplified Chinese: 玄奘, c. 602–664) undertook. During the Tang Dynasty, Master Xuanzang trained for 10 years before he left for India on foot, in order to bring back valuable Sanskrit texts. This training included abstaining from food for a day, and over time he was able to build up the number of days after which he needed to eat, in order to accustom himself to travelling in desert conditions with minimal food. Being inspired by this story, Xuyun once again travelled to the grotto behind the mountain, and resumed life there with minimal effort.

Xuanzang's journey to India in Dunhuang cave

Xuanzang’s journey to India in Dunhuang cave

Three years passed, with Xuyun living on pine needles, grass, and water from the mountain stream. He also had many different types of experiences during his meditations but persevered with his practice of reciting the Buddha’s name. Although his robes were worn out, and his hair and beard were over a foot in length, he experienced great joy as if he was a celestial being on the fourth of the thirty-three levels of heaven.

It was around this time, that he began to wander to different places, unaware of the passing of time. A Chan monk came to him when he was staying in a grotto on Mount Wen Zhou, and suggested that he pay a visit to Master Yangjing of Longquan Temple, located on the Huading peak of Mount Tiantai.

During their meeting, Xuyun realised he had wasted his time pursuing the quest for the extraordinary, and that this was far from the practice that results in perfect enlightenment. Master Yangjing pointed out his weak points, after which Xuyun decided to follow the master’s instruction properly and obey it to the letter. Master Yangjing taught Xuyun to meditate on a gong-an (a meditational sentence or verse, also known as koan in Japanese). This gong-an said “Who is dragging this corpse about?”, he was also to work during his stay with the master.

A year later, Master Yangjing instructed Xuyun to study the Chan rules at Guoqing Monastery and the Fahua (Lotus) teaching at Fanguang monastery. Xuyun remained in Guoqing Monastery for two years and returned to Longquan temple from time to time to visit old Master Yangjing.

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During the third year after leaving Longquan Temple, Xuyun left to Gaoming monastery to attend Master Mingxi’s exposition of the Lotus Sutra after a proper farewell to Master Yangjing. During this journey, Xuyun travelled to various places, to visit and to study many different teachings. During the journey:

  • He listened to the Amitabha Sutra at Yuelin Monastery in Xuetou
  • He spent new years at Housi temple on Mount Putuo
  • He visited Ashoka Monastery in Ningbo, and venerated Buddha Shakyamuni’s relic and the Theravada and Mahayana canons
  • He listened to the Surangama Sutra in Tiantong Monastery, Ningbo
  • He went on pilgrimage to Santian Chu and other holy places in Hangzhou
  • Had a girl offer him her naked body on a boat, while travelling from Ningbo to Hangzhou. In response, he promptly sat cross-legged and began chanting mantras
  • He visited Abbot Qingguang at Tianning Monastery in Hangzhou
  • He paid respects to Abbot Dashui on Mount Jiao, and shared Dharma and practice methods with Superintendent Peng Yulin who was staying there
  • He visited Masters Guanxin, Xinlin and Dading at Jinshan Monastery
  • He made good progress in his Chan practice during his stay in Gaoming Monastery in Yangzhou and paid his respects to Abbot Yuelang.

 

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Pilgrimage to Mount Wutai

First temple in Mount Putuo. It is known as Puji temple today

First temple in Mount Putuo. It is known as Puji temple today

Aged 43, Xuyun decided to embark on a pilgrimage to Mount Putuo in the east and Mount Wutai in the north feeling the need to pay back his parents’ kindness. In Putuo, Xuyun made excellent progress with his spiritual training on the mountain during a few months’ stay. After that, Xuyun set out towards Mount Wutai carrying burning incense and made a prostration, after every third step he took, until he reached his destination.

He began the journey in a group with four Chan monks: Bianzhen, Qiuning, Shanxia and Juecheng. They went separate ways at Huzhou after a short period of time. Xuyun proceeded to Nanjing and paid reverence to the stupa of Master Farong on Mount Niutou. Xuyun continued with his journey to Shizi Shan and Pukou temple where he spent the new year.

From Mount Shizi, Xuyun travelled to the north of Jiangsu and entered Henan, and susequently passed Fengyang, Haozhou, Haoling and Mount Song where the Shaolin Temple was located. Eventually, Xuyun arrived at Baima Monastery in Luoyang where he practised walking meditation during the day and rested at night regardless of the weather conditions. While making a prostration, after every third step he took, Xuyun recited the name of Manjushri with single pointed concentration.

Manjushri of the popular mural “Debate between Manjushri and Vimalakirti

Manjushri of the popular mural “Debate between Manjushri and Vimalakirti” in the Dunhuang Mogao cave

A few months after that, Xuyun arrived at a river bank, located passed the Guangwu tombs. As the day was already dark, he settled into an empty thatched hut nearby and sat in deep meditation. When he awoke the next day, he found himself surrounded with thick snow, and the roads being blocked for those who wanted to travel. Xuyun experienced extreme hunger and cold for six days as the snow continued to fall, and he gradually sank into a state of confusion. A beggar came to his ‘doorstep’ on the seventh day, kindled a fire and cooked rice for him. Xuyun began to recover after that.

While regaining his strength, the beggar, named Wenji, suggested Xuyun to visit a monk called Qingyi at the Bimo Grotto who was known for his self cultivation. The beggar suggested that Xuyun cancel his pilgrimage due to the distance and the cold. However, Xuyun was determined to continue, to which the beggar suggested that he resume his journey following the beggar’s tracks, and stay in a temple that was about 32 kilometres away. With a weakened body, Xuyun continued his journey and managed to reach Xiaojinshan Monastery. He continued his pilgrimage the next day after a night’s rest. He was invited to Abbot Delin’s monastery after he had passed Mengxian, while heading towards Huaiqing. Abbot Delin invited Xuyun to stay at the monastery seeing him prostrating on the road. Abbot Delin was delighted to find that Xuyun was from Gushan, a fact that brought back memories of his own pilgrimage to Mount Wutai with two companions from the same region.

Wutai Shan in the 19th century

Wutai Shan in the 19th century

When he resumed his pilgrimage once winter was over, Xuyun was struck with severe gripping pains in his belly, and was also infected with malaria. The pain in his belly soon became dysentery, to the extent that he passed motion a dozen or more times in a single day. After 13 days of this, he was completely exhausted and had no strength to even get up, let alone walk about. At that point, he closed his eyes and waited for his end without a single thought of regret, while staying at the ruined temple of Huang Shaling.

Two days after that, Wenji the beggar appeared and made a fire under the west wall of the ruined temple. After seeing Wenji that night, Xuyun felt that his body and mind had been purified. Wenji took care of Xuyun for a few days and offered to carry his baggage and cook for him as he resumed the pilgrimage after 19 days. Although Xuyun was weak, he felt that all delusory thoughts came to a sudden halt and he was free from erroneous thoughts. His heart and body were gradually restored, and he regained strength daily.

Unfortunately, not long after journeying together, Wenji had to leave due to temples that refused to give lay persons any lodging. Although Xuyun was given lodging at the temple, he had no mind to stay because he was worried as to where Wenji would spend the night. Before they separated, Wenji told Xuyun that other people would help with Xuyun’s baggage soon. Feeling extremely impatient, and trying to rush his journey during the night, Xuyun’s nose bled incessantly, which led to his mouth becoming smeared with blood. None of the temples would allow him to lodge there for the night after seeing Xuyun’s condition. While trying to find lodging at Jiluo Moastery in Taiyuan, not only was he not allowed to stay, but he was abused and rebuked.

Pilgrims prostrating on the road

Pilgrims prostrating on the road

Before Xuyun arrived at his final destination, he came across different people who offered him help with his baggage and lodging. He was offered travel expenses and presents that he refused to take. When he finally arrived at Xiantong Monastery on Wutai Shan to locate his baggage, he went to the neighbouring temples to inquire about Wenji’s whereabouts and offered incense. No one knew who he was but when Xuyun asked an elderly monk about the beggar, he quickly put his palms together and said the beggar was an emanation of Manjushri! Xuyun prostrated immediately to the bodhisattava and continued his pilgrimage to the five peaks where he made offerings, paid reverence, sat in meditation, and attended the Great Prayer Meeting. Thus, he was able to complete and fulfil the vows he made three years previously.

During those years of pilgrimage, although he was burdened with illness, gales, and snowfall that obstruct Xuyun’s incense offering and prostrations, he realised single pointed concentration and right thought. He was filled with joy though the journey was difficult and his mind became more at ease each time he overcame an adverse circumstance.

For two years, Xuyun continued to travel to various places in China; Tibet where he paid respects to the His Holiness the Dalai Lama; Bhutan; and India. Although he travelled more than 16,0000 kilometres, he did so on foot, except when crossing rivers and seas by boat. During the trip, he climbed mountains, crossed streams and overcame stressful conditions such as rain, frost or snow. His surrounding environment changed as he travelled, but his mind remained as bright and pure as the solitary moon in the night sky. In addition to this, his health increased as he was able to walk faster. He felt no sense of hardship, yet he realised the harm of the self-indulgent mind. As the ancient saying goes “after reading ten thousand books, one should travel ten thousand miles.”

 

“Humility and patience are golden coins.” – Master Xuyun, Stages of Development and Difficulties

 

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Awakening

At 51, Xuyun assisted in repairing Chishan Monastery in Jiangsu when he paid respects to the Abbot Faren. During the following year, he stayed at Jincheng Monastery, and assisted Abbot Songyan to repair the monastery. During his stay there, he often had interesting discussions with the upasaka Yang Renshan on the Hetuvidya Shastra, and also the treatise called The Lamp of Prajna Wisdom. During the following year, together with Master Puzhao, Yuexia and Yilian, Xuyun climbed Mount Jiuha, where they repaired the huts on Cuifeng Peak for their temporary stay there. Master Puzhao also expounded the five divisions of the Huayan School there. For two years, Xuyun stayed there to study the sutras.

Abbot Yuelang of the Gaoming Monastery came to Mount Jiuhua and approached Xuyun to assist with supervising twelve weeks of meditation. Agreeing, he left Mount Juihua and as he reached Digang Harbour, he decided to walk along the river bank but the river was rising. A boatman refused to help him cross the current because he was penniless and left without him. As Xuyun continued to walk along the river bank, he slipped and fell into the water. A fisherman caught him by chance after he was dragged by the current for a day and a night. Xuyun was sent to Baoji temple as the fisherman had sent for a monk from there who recognised him. Xuyun bled from the mouth, nose, anus and genital organ as a result from having taking a beating by the current of the river.

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Nevertheless, Xuyun kept his promise and left for Gaoming Monastery after few days of rest. Although the monk on duty knew he was unwell, the Abbot asked Xuyun to take up a temporary post for the 12-week meditation course after asking about Mount Jiuhua, where Xuyun had stayed before almost drowning in the river. Xuyun politely declined the Abbot’s request without mentioning the incident, and asked to attend the meditation meeting instead. This was deemed unacceptable and seen as an offence to the whole monastic community according to Gaoming Monastery’s rules. Xuyun was therefore punished with a wooden stick and his illness worsened following that.

Xuyun continued to bleed and sat in meditation for 20 days, ignoring the pains of his body and his illness completely vanished after that. When the abbot of Baoji Temple came to Gaoming Monastery to offer robes to the monks, he was delighted to see Xuyun who appeared radiant. He spoke about Xuyun’s almost drowning in the river, after which all the monks started to hold Xuyun in high esteem. Following this, Xuyun was able to continue his meditations in peace, and was no longer expected to work in the meditation hall.

The experience following this led to Xuyun’s awakening. The prerequisites for a major awakening took place; all thoughts were brought to an abrupt halt thus allowing Xuyun’s practice to take effect throughout the day and night, and his steps became swift like he was flying in the air. One evening, Xuyun opened his eyes and suddenly perceived great brightness like broad daylight, in which everything inside and outside of the monastery was clear to him. He could see through walls to see what people were doing, and this was confirmed to him the next day, when he asked the very same people what they had been doing the evening before. However, Xuyun didn’t pay regard to this experience knowing it was a temporary experience.

Not long after that, an attendant came to fill their cups after the meditation session ended and the boiling liquid splashed over Xuyun’s hand. This caused the cup he was holding to drop to the ground, and shatter loudly. It was at that moment, that the last doubt underlying the nature of birth and death was instantaneously cut off. Xuyun rejoiced at the realisation and succeeded in overcoming the stream of worldly life. He chanted:

A cup fell to the ground
With a sound clearly heard.
As space was pulverised
The mad mind came to a stop.

When the hand released its hold, the cup fell and was shattered.

’Tis hard to talk when the family breaks up or someone dies; Spring comes with fragrant flowers blossoming everywhere, mountains, rivers and the great earth are but the Tathagata.

 

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Seclusion and Restoring Degenerated Sangha

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After staying in Jiangsu and Zhejiang for about 10 years, Xuyun made a distant journey to Mount Wutai and cultivated his practise in seclusion on Mount Zhongnan. During the journey, he visited the Tomb and Temple of Confucius, arriving in Shandong Province. There were signs of the Boxer Movement – a secret society with quasi-Daoist origins rising in rebellion across Shangdong. Xuyun had a gun pointed at his head by a foreign soldier who threatened to shoot him. Seeing Xuyun without the slightest concern, he was asked to leave. Xuyun hurried to make his way to Mount Wutai and proceeded to Mount Zhongnan.

Once the Boxer Movement broke out, Xuyun travelled to Beijing. When the movement came to a climax, he was back in Longquan Monastery. It was around that time that the secretary of the Japanese Legation and a German minister were both assassinated at the secret instigation of the Empress Dowager Cixi. Two months after that, a war was declared on the foreign powers, which caused the capital city being thrown into disorder.

The princes and ministers who knew Xuyun from their stay at Longquan Monastery urged him to leave with them and he followed the Imperial entourage who fled to the west. Everyone endured great hardship during the journey and were accompanied beyond the Great Wall by Viceroy Chen Chunxuan of Gansu with his soldiers. When they arrived at Bingyang, it was besieged by a severe famine, and people even began to eat corpses in the streets. The authorities put a stop to this by erecting eight booths to give free meals to the starving people, and food were also distributed in the countryside.

Xuyun continued his journey secretly to Zhongnan in order to build a thatched hut. He found a secluded place for spiritual retirement at the Lion Cave behind Jia Wutai’s peak. It was there that he changed his name to Xuyun to avoid unwanted visitors. Up until that point in time, he had still been known by his ordination name – Deqing. He drank melted snow and ate coarse herbs he grew himself.

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One day after about a year living on the mountain, Xuyun cooked some taro and sat cross-legged while waiting for his meal. Involuntarily, he entered a state of samadhi and awoke after hearing a ritual instrument called a qing, which was hit by Master Fucheng and others who stayed nearby. They went to see Xuyun because he hadn’t been in touch for some time. When they arrived at his hut, they saw tiger tracks everywhere but no signs of human tracks. When Xuyun returned to consciousness after hearing the qing, they asked if Xuyun had taken his meal and found an inch of mould covering the taro. Judging by the thickness of the mould, they commented Xuyun could have been in the state of samadhi for at least half a month.

Monks and lay people from nearby and far away places alike began to visit Xuyun, most probably after hearing the story of his incredible samadhi. In order to avoid such visitors, Xuyun left to Mount Emei and ascended to Jinding Peak with Master Jiachen who caught up with him following his footsteps. There they saw countless heavenly lamps, a similar experience as to what they had previously witnessed on Mount Wutai. Xuyun vowed to build a hut on the mountain to receive visiting pilgrims as it was such a sacred site for Buddhists, and in such disrepair. This disrepair was due to the degeneration of the sangha community in Yunan province. However he was unsuccessful due to prohibiting conditions prevalent among the local monastic community. He was saddened by the situation and was brought to tears.

Xuyun was invited to end his seclusion by the Abbot Qiming of Guihua Temple and various Dharma sponsors to expound the Sutra of Complete Enlightenment and the Sutra of Forty-Two Sections at Guihua. Over three thousand people took refuge at the events and became Xuyun’s disciples. Following that, Xuyun was invited to Qiongju Monastery to preach the Surangama Sutra and Buddhist precepts by Abbot Mengfu. While there he also supervised the carving of wooden blocks for printing the Surangama Sutra and the poems of Hanshan that were kept at the monastery.

Xuyun was invited to the Chongsheng Monastery in Santa to preach the Lotus Sutra to a few thousand disciples who would take refuge under Xuyun. He declined the invitation to the monastery, as it was located in a town. Instead he told Li Fuxing, who had invited him, that he wished to stay on Mount Jizu. He told Li Fuxing, a sponsor of the Dharma, to procure him a site where he could build a hut on the mountain to receive pilgrims, saving the degenerated sangha, and restoring the holy site of Mahakashyapa.

Entrance to Mount Jizu

Entrance to Mount Jizu

Li Fuxing managed to find a ruined temple called Boyu which had been abandoned since the Jiaqing reign (1796-1820) of the Qing Dynasty. It was believed that a large rock found at the site, emanated negative influences and caused the site to be uninhabitable. Xuyun managed to find some labourers to break the rock apart, and he wanted to dig a pool there to liberate fish and other creatures who live in water. However the men could not find the bottom of the rock as it was deep underground. After a few days, with over a hundred men who came to help, they failed to shift the rock. Xuyun offered prayers to the guardian spirits of the temple and recited mantras. After this he managed to move the rock to the left, with the aid of ten monks. Those present at the time were awestruck at the divine intervention, and named the rock Yun Yi Shi (literally translated as ‘cloud move rock’).

After the incident, the restoration of the temple began, but a lot funds needed to be raised. Xuyun left for Tengyue by himself, with the purpose of raising the funds needed, while Master Jiachen looked after the temple. It was not easy and he was unable to raise any funds for awhile. Instead, he spent 10 days repairing the road with the 83-year old Venerable Chanxiu, who became attained during his late 20’s. Before he parted with Venerable Chanxiu, Xuyun was requested to recite sutras for the deceased scholar and academic Wu. Xuyun performed a 7-day ceremony dedicated to bestowing food to the hungry ghosts, after which he was asked to say in Tengyue.

Xuyun mentioned to those that attended the ceremony, that he was raising funds to rebuild a temple on Mount Jizu. The people were delighted with the news, and donated substantial funds for the work.

Xuyun allocated funds needed for necessities for the community, added extra rooms in the building, setup monastic rules and regulations, enforced discipline and Buddhist precepts, preached sutras and introduced meditation. Over 700 ordained and lay devotees received the commandments and gradually all monasteries on the mountain followed the same example and improved themselves, including the wearing of proper robes and eating vegetarian food. They also stayed at the temple to learn and receive spiritual instructions.

 

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Fundraising

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After Xuyun transmitted the precepts to over 800 people in Shizhong Monastery as invited by Abbot Baolin, he continued to travel to South Asia including Burma where he caught a serious disease. He spent sometime in the Avalokitesvara Temple at Liudong and recovered with help from Dingru, the resident monk. As he was leaving, Dingru asked him to stay. He politely declined the invitation and stated his intention to raise funds for the monastery, so Dingru gave him some necessities and traveling expenses in order to travel to Rangoon. Dingru telegraphed Upasaka Gao Wanbang to receive Xuyun and arranged for him to return to China.

Xuyun couldn’t return to China directly but had to stop in Malacca, Malaysia, where he was invited to preach the Sutra of the Medicine Buddha in Qingyun temple. Following that, he travelled to Kuala Lumpur to preach the Lankavatara Sutra at the Lingshan Temple. While preaching the sutras in Malaysia, over 10,000 people attended his precious teachings, and took refuge in him, thus becoming his disciples. He was in his late 60’s then.

When he was returning to China, the ship he was on stopped by Taiwan, where he visited Longquan Monastery. The ship then stopped in Japan where he visited a few monasteries. At the time China and Japan were not on friendly terms; Japanese monks were not allowed to visit China and Chinese monks visiting Japan were closely watched. Due to this, Xuyun couldn’t establish an association between Chinese and Japanese Buddhists.

When Xuyun returned to Shanghai, he quickly proceeded to Beijing together with Master Jichan and representatives of the Buddhist Association to present their petition to the Central Government. Xuyun was informed about the Government’s intention to impose a levy on monastic property when he was in Kuala Lumpur. Hence the rush to present the petition as soon as he has arrived. He stayed at Xianliang Monastery and was invited to preach about the Buddhist precepts to Prince Su Shanqi’s wife. Many members of royalty and high officials paid visits to him as they were part of the retinue to the west during the Boxer Rebellion period, and knew him. There, Xuyun received advice to properly present the petition and the submission was completed smoothly with help from the devotees.

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The petition resulted in all provincial levies imposed on monastic properties being abolished. Following this, Xuyun informed his disciples that no emperor had presented a set of the Tripitaka to Yunan province since the beginning of the Qing Dynasty, thus indirectly advising people to submit a petition to the royalty for such an act to be granted. Prince Su happily sponsored this act, which was something that benefited the entire region. The Emperor happily granted a set of the ‘Dragon Edition’ of the Tripitaka and gave Xuyun’s monastery an additional title that means “invocation of the holy one” and granted Abbot Xuyun a purple robe, a bowl, a jade seal, a staff and a sceptre. The emperor also gave Xuyun the title Great Master Foci Hungfa (Buddha’s Compassion’s vast Dharma) and a message for him to spread the Buddha’s Dharma.

Not long after that, the old Abbot of Gushan Miaolian, where Xuyun was ordained, entered into clear light. Xuyun took half of the relics from the cremation to Jile Monastery of Penang. From there he went to Thailand and was approached by a British consul on a boat who kindly sponsored him 300 dollars which was a huge amount at that time. This may have even been half of the consul’s yearly income. But he did so knowing of Xuyun’s initial plans to raise funds when he was in Kuala Lumpur. There after Xuyun managed to travel directly to Thailand.

In Thailand, Xuyun stayed at Longquan Monastery and preached the Sutra of Ksitigarbha. The consul came again and donated another 3,000 dollars. Xuyun required tens of thousands to build a hall to house the Tripitaka but he had only collected a small sum until the consul’s offering. Xuyun continued to preach within Thailand, however he entered into the state of samadhi involuntarily, so forgot about the teaching schedule. The news of this incident spread in Bangkok and the king, ministers, and lay people all went to him to pay their respects. The King of Thailand presented Xuyun many offerings and respectfully requested Xuyun to accept him as a disciple and several thousands became his disciples after that.

After experiencing this particular incident of samadhi, Xuyun gradually began to become paralysed. Others had to feed him and no treatment, either Chinese or Western, seemed to help. It got to a point where Xuyun could no longer speak but he did not feel any suffering as he had already let go of everything, except for the bank draft that was sewn inside his collar. This bank draft was money raised for the hall that was to house the Tripitaka. The thought brought tears to his eyes as he quietly made prayers to Mahakashyapa to protect him.

Mahakashyapa is one of Buddha Shakyamuni's principal disciples, foremost in ascetic practices

Mahakashyapa is one of Buddha Shakyamuni’s principal disciples, foremost in ascetic practices

That night, he dreamed an old man who looked like Mahakashyapa sitting at his bedside. The old man told Xuyun to never stray from his commandments, that go together with the begging bow and robes. He advised Xuyun to use his folded robe and bowl as a pillow and everything will be alright. Xuyun got up immediately and did accordingly. Miraculously, his body perspired profusely and he felt indescribably happy. Xuyun murmured words to pray for prescriptions at a shrine of Weituo and Xuyun started to see and speak again. Weituo is Skanda, a bodhisattva who is devoted to guard Buddhist teachings and monasteries. There are accounts that Weituo performs miracles for many in the Chinese Buddhist tradition. For the next two days, Xuyun ate the prescribed thick soup and abstained from all other foods. Xuyun managed to pass motion with ease due to that and the excrement was black. This is a good sign as the toxins in his body was being cleared in the process. In no time at all, Xuyun’s senses recovered and he was able to get up and walk. This time, the sickness lasted over 20 days, but he was well cared for, especially by Master Miaoyuan who had looked after him day and night. Xuyun made a vow to Weituo to always build a shrine for Weituo whenever Xuyun built or repaired a monastery in the future.

After his recovery, Xuyun went back to Penang from Thailand, and stayed in Jile Monastery. Before he left, the King of Thailand along with his high officials and entourage presented him a great sum of donations and saw him off. The King also offered a 4,550-acre piece of land to Xuyun as a reward for reciting sutras at the royal palace. Xuyun donated the land to Jile Monastery and requested them to set up a rubber factory there as a source of income for the monastic community.

Xuyun continued to stay in Malaysia and travelled to Selangor, Ipoh and Perak to preach dharma. Many people requested to be his disciples. When he went back to Jile Monastery in Penang, he preached more sutra teachings before he entered into temporary retreat during which he stopped preaching and receiving visitors.

 

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Restoration of Holy Sites

“When it comes to love, be a big spender!” – Master Xuyun, Stages of Development and Difficulties

While continuing with the preaching of sutras and restoration of the Buddhist code of conduct in various monastic communities, Xuyun continued to repair and re-establish holy sites, monasteries and stupas. During the Huichang period (842-845 CE) of the Tang Dynasty, nearly 4,600 monasteries were destroyed, monastic properties were confiscated, and almost 260,000 monks and nuns were forced back into lay life. Since then, although most of the monasteries managed to recover from this damage, it was due to Xuyun efforts that they were restored to proper use.

Between 1914-15, Xuyun returned to the Mount Jizu and immediately began repairing the Xingyuan Monastery there. After that, he continued with the restoration of Loquan Temple at Xiayang. A few years later, Xuyun urged Governor Tang to preserve the Huating Monastery at Kunming. The Huating Monastery was an ancient and holy site with very beautiful gardens. However, it had fallen into ruin and was in the process of being sold to European residents for a club house to be built there. Governor Tang secretly discussed the matter with local notables after listening to Xuyun. As a result, they formally invited Xuyun to become the Abbot of Huating Monastery in order for them to restore the holy site which Xuyun accepted after the request was made verbally three times.

Xuyun017

Three years later, in the province of Yunnan, Xuyun oversaw the building of a stupa for the Seven Buddhist Disciples as well as repairing the Stupa of the Sixteen Arhats, and the statues of the Buddhas and the Five Hundred Arhats at Shenqyin Temple. Three bronze statues were made for the main hall and three clay ones for the shrine of the Western Paradise located at the temple. In the following year, Xuyun built the additional prayer halls and sangha quarters of Yunxi Monastery while holding the position of abbot there. The bell tower for the monastery was also rebuilt.

After seven years, Xuyun received telegrams from the Guangdong provincial authorities, asking him to take over and renovate the temple of the Sixth Patriarch, the holy site of Huineng, that was last renovated by Master Hanshan (1546-1623 CE). This temple, formerly known as Baolin, was given the name Nanhua. The monastery was run down and Xuyun made some minor repairs for a year.

Xuyun019

Between 1940-1941, despite Guangzhou having fallen into Japanese control, Xuyun managed to repair the Dajing Temple which was used as a part of the Nanhua Monastery to receive visitors. The Yuehua Monastery was also renovated for the same purpose. Prior to that, Xuyun also repaired the Wujin nunnery to receive the influx of nuns coming to Qujiang.

Xuyun was placed in charge of the construction of Dajue Monastery on Mount Ruyuan’s Yunmen Peak at the request of Chairman Li in 1944. The ruined monastery was in the same dilapidated condition as Nanhua Monastery prior to its renovation. It was in imminent danger of collapse. In anticipation of the war spreading to Nanhua, Xuyun secretly moved the bodies of Master Huineng and Master Hanshan to Yunmen as he left Nanhua Monastery.

In between restoration of the monastery, Xuyun also appealed to the Government to make regulations for religious freedom, and the preservation of Buddhist temples and monasteries all over the country. Most importantly, he urged the Government to prohibit further demolition of temples and monasteries, destruction of statues and libraries, to stop forcing monks and nuns to return to lay life, and to return the necessary amount of their land for self-supporting purposes.

Xuyun returned to Zhenru Monastery and continued with the building and restoration works after that. Xuyun began building the main hall, the shrine of the Four Heavenly Kings, the Tower of Humility, the Tower of Boundless Sight, the bell tower, prayer halls and dormitories one after another. These buildings were copied from the Gushan, Nanhua and Yunmen Monasteries. Xuyun did not appeal for funds for the rebuilding of the monastery. However, donations came nevertheless.

Xuyun018

In less than three years after Xuyun’s arrival on Mount Yunju, new temples arose and monastics buildings were restored. These holy sites were built during the Tang and Song Dynasties. When Xuyun originally came to the ruined holy sites on Mount Yunju, he had only a staff with him. He handed the newly built and renovated temples one after another to various monks and left with that same staff as his sole possession.

Xuyun had rebuilt a score of temples and monasteries all over the country and Zhenru Monastery was the final one he rebuilt and restored during his lifetime. The final work done at the monastery was the building of the stupa, similar to that of Nanhua Monastery and a few more sutra-reading rooms for the monks. These works were completed in 1959.

Xuyun had gradually grown weaker after his grave illness in 1959. He gave instructions to the monks of the monastery to take good care of it after his passing. He also requested for his body to be dressed in yellow robes and garments, placed in a coffin and cremated, a day after his passing at the foot of the hill to the west of the cowshed where he was staying. Xuyun requested for his ashes to be mixed with sugar, flour and oil, and then kneaded into nine balls. These were to be thrown into a river as an offering to the beings there.

 

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Conclusion

Xuyun020

Xuyun has spent his life devoted to the Dharma. Through preaching the Dharma and Buddhist code of conduct, restoring monasteries and temples and holy sites, he had successfully revitalised the Chinese Buddhist teachings, especially the Chan teachings, and benefitted many. In the process he had gone through countless hardships and illnesses which did not stop him from his Dharma endeavours. The best way to describe Xuyun’s life is like the Buddhist imagery of a ‘poison-eating peacock’. This means that from the bitterness of the poisons of live, something spiritual can be awakened. Although Chinese Buddhism was being suppressed and destroyed in China, Xuyun had successfully revived its worth, and brought it to the attention of the whole world.

Xuyun’s name was, at one point, known and revered in every Chinese Buddhist monastic community and household throughout Asia. His life and example has aroused the same mixture of awe and inspiration in the minds of Chinese Buddhists as does that of Milarepa for the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. This is amazing in light of the fact that Xuyun lived well into our era, tangibly exhibiting those spiritual powers that we must otherwise discover by looking back through the mists of time to the great Chan masters of the Tang, Song and Ming Dynasties. These were great men whose example still inspires many today, but in most cases, we have scant details as to their lives as individuals, outside their recorded dialogues or talks of instruction. With Xuyun’s example being so recent, the stories of accomplishments provide new way of inspiration for the modern spiritual seeker to strive along the path towards enlightenment.

 

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Appendix I

THE SONG OF THE SKIN BAG

Written by Master Xuyun in his 19th year
The Song of the Skin Bag, the skin bag is sung.
Before the empty eon it had neither name nor form,
After the Buddha with awe-inspiring voice it became a hindrance.
Three hundred and sixty tendons are linked within the body
Enclosed by four and eighty thousand pores.
Divided it splits into heaven, earth and man,
United it combines the four elements.
It supports heaven, props up earth,
But what of its mettle?
Understand cause and effect, discern the times
Survey the stupidity of past and present.
Because of wrong clinging to illusory forms,
Parents are involved and wife and children loved.
By vain indulgence in delusion karma is left behind.

The Song of the Skin Bag, the skin bag is sung.
Drinking wine and eating meat upset the mind-nature,
Indulgence in pleasure and desire leads to utter ruin.
When officialdom is strong to oppress the innocent
And readers artful against their consciences, how long
Will their wealth and power last, their pride and their extravagance?
The poor and lowly will not so last while there is cruelty and violence.
Discrimination between self and others leads to inequality,
Destroying living beings as worthless things.
Thinking and discerning cause desire, stupidity and hatred,
While becoming lost in heresies invites self-destruction.
Killing, stealing, adultery and lying have no end,
And rude behavior to others increases attachment and aversion.
To scold the wind and curse the rain is disrespectful to the gods,
While depression comes from ignorance of birth and death.
When leaving a cow’s womb to enter a mare’s belly
Who will sing of or lament your change of form?
Many evil acts without a good deed will make
Aimless and toilsome your transmigration.
Entering the three evil realms, falling into hell
Causes suffering to animals and hungry ghosts.
The ancient sages would oft repeat their warning,
Likewise the morning bell and drum at eve are to change your heart.
Good and evil karma bring certain retribution,
Escape then, worldly men, from the five periods of impurity.

The Song of the Skin Bag, the skin bag is sung;
If the owner of form is not entangled by it,
For illusory matter to interdependence owes its name –
He can readily turn his mind within
To contemplate in sovereign ease.
With no desire for fame and for wealth no craving,
Cut off all liking and from the world retire.
With no love for wife and no affection for children
Enter a monastery to keep the discipline.
Look for learned teachers, seek out their teaching.
On Chan practice and meditation to o’er-lap the three worlds.
Store what you see and hear, forsake all causal clinging
To escape for ever from the worldly way.
By taming the six senses and stopping all your thoughts,
With neither self nor other, no trouble will remain,
Unlike worldly men who sigh when mist and dew disperse.
With one robe to cover you and food enough
To satisfy your hunger, keep yourself in shape.
Give wealth away, sacrifice your body and life
Without a second thought, as when you spit or sneeze.
Keep pure the discipline, be without fault
And correct in your deportment. Be not angry
When insulted, bear no hatred when you are beaten,
Forget all derision by enduring the unendurable.
Without deviation, without interruption
Hold forever the one thought of Amitabha.
Let there be no dullness, no confusion,
But like the fir and cypress defy the bitter cold.
Doubt no more the Buddha, doubt no more the Dharma;
With innate wisdom look clearly into what you see and hear, Bore the paper, cut the hide and go back
To the source, for self-liberation means
Returning to the spring and source of reality.
There is neither ‘non-existence’ nor emptiness
Exposed is the potentiality divine, wondrous and inconceivable.
When you reach here all grievance ends.
Hurrah, for now you realize the goal.
With the ten titles of Buddha you will teach a myriad worlds.
Aha, that same leaking shell is now
The omnipresent Buddha-body.
Clearly good and evil karmas are infallible, so why
Rely on falsehood instead of practicing the truth?
When the absolute is split the two extremes appear,
The spirit mind turns into heaven and earth.
Kings and ministers are noble owing to their past karmas,
None are rich or noble, poor or humble without previous cause.
Where there is birth – there will be death,
Why grumble since this is known to everyone?
For wife, children (and self), for happiness and wealth
All prospects are spoiled by anger and desire.
For what fame or gain did I trifle
Away my last nineteen springs?
Frustrations of a thousand, nay ten thousand kinds
Harass and make your life yet more unbearable.
When you grow old with failing sight and snow-white hair
You will have vainly passed a lifetime ignorant of virtue.
From day to month, from month to year in vain will you
Regret that months and years turn like a wheel.
Who is an immortal in this world of ours?
’Tis better to revere once more the cloud of compassion
And on a famous mountain or in some renowned place
To live at ease in transcendental bliss.
Do not you know how fast the temporary flies?
Respectfully ponder a few expedient sentences,
Recite Amitabha’s name, see clearly into birth and death,
Then enjoy happiness beyond the reach of others.
Practice Chan, seek out its aim; the pure
And the spiritual are only this.
With clear tea and vegetarian food the mind
Errs not, enjoying Dharma night and day.
Forsake both self and other, relinquish ‘you’ and ‘I’,
Treat friend and foe alike forgetting praise and censure.
When the mind is free from hindrance and disgrace
Do Buddhas and Patriarchs regard its Oneness as being without use?
The World-Honored One renounced his love to climb the snowy mountains,
While Avalokitesvara left home to become a son of the Buddha.
In the days of Yao and Shun lived Zhao and Yu,
When the throne was offered to Zhao he washed his ears.
Remember Zhang Zifang and Liu Chengyi
Who cast away their glory, retiring from the world.
In this period of termination when troubles lie ahead,
Why do you not awaken to vie with the ancestors?
To indulge in ignorance, committing the ten evils
Exhausts your ingenuity and wins the world’s contempt.
Wars, epidemics, droughts and floods are frequent,
Dearth, famine and strife succeed each other and
When weird tales prevail misfortune follows.
’Midst earthquakes, landslides and tidal waves
What will you do in order to escape?
Evil acts in past transmigrations
Cause present falsehood and frustration.
When poor and in trouble virtue should first be cultivated,
Then in a monastery worship with virtuous heart the King of the Law,
Repentance and reform from past wrong deeds improve your lot.
Call on learned teachers, seek your experience to seal,
First learn, then leave both birth and death to realize the Mind- nature,
Impermanence exposed reveals eternity.
Path lies in path within your practice.
The saints and sages left clear sayings to reform the world,
Slight not then the teaching of the Tripitaka.
With earnestness and deep sincerity
I urge all human beings to be righteous
Take not my words as idle nor forget them,
For self-cultivation leads to perception of self-nature.
Hasten your practice, be ever zealous,
For the sowing of Bodhi is the direct cause of awakening.
The nine stages after rebirth in the Lotus are testified by the Buddha,
An Amitabha will take you to the Western Paradise.
Lay down your bag of skin, leap on the Vehicle Supreme.
This is the Song of the Skin Bag, hearken to it friends!

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References:

  • http://www.emptycloud.net/
  • http://enlight.lib.ntu.edu.tw/FULLTEXT/JR-MAG/mag89470.html
  • http://www.chibs.edu.tw/ch_html/chbj/16/chbj1606.htm
  • http://www.budaedu.org/ebooks/6-EN.php
  • https://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/释虚云
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hsu_Yun
  • http://www.v4.cc/News-467642.html
  • http://www.goohoo.net/?p=1081
  • http://www.ntdtv.com/xtr/b5/2015/10/22/a1231243.html
  • http://lifemirror.pixnet.net/blog/post/30856609-%5B人物%5D-虛雲老和尚117歲走路不沾地,手提400-
  • http://www.epochtimes.com/b5/16/8/21/n8223251.htm
  • http://bodhi.takungpao.com.hk/sspt/sramana/2015-08/3101309.html
  • http://fo.ifeng.com/news/detail_2014_05/07/36198114_0.shtml
  • https://read01.com/mggOOE.html
  • http://big5.xuefo.net/nr/article3/26218.html
  • http://bestzen.pixnet.net/blog/post/46606508-虛雲老和尚的故事~鬼神護法

 
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Pastor Adeline Woon
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About Pastor Adeline Woon

Adeline Woon is a Buddhist Pastor and a Sangha-to-be in Kechara who enjoys learning and sharing the Dharma with others. Due to her deep interest in Buddhism from a young age, Adeline enrolled herself into the Dharma Drum University in Taiwan, where she graduated with a Master in Religious Studies in 2012.
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28 Responses to Empty Cloud

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  1. Jacinta Goh on Feb 28, 2023 at 8:41 pm

    Indeed, Master XuYun’s life story being so recent, it’s most inspiring to read. The very first time I heard about him was the story shared by my husband. He shared with me about His miraculous birth in a bag of flesh (this kind of birth was clearly written in Sutra), His popularity in China, how He lived through different dinasties and both world war 1 & 2, His powerful disciples and also when He gave teachings, flowers bloomed although it was winter, & many more.

    In this article, I learnt that Master Xuyun came to Malaysia too, especially to Penang the state that I’m living now. In the article, it was mentioned numerous times that He went to Ji Le monastery. I take this as Kek Lok Si temple, which is the famous place to go in Penang. How wonderful!!! No wonder that temple has grown and is growing by leaps and bounds.

    I thank Pastor Adeline Woon for this detailed write up and I love reading it. It inspired me to the core.

    • Jacinta Goh on Mar 8, 2023 at 1:00 pm

      It took me only less than a week to read the whole autobiography of Master Xuyun. By reading the past sage’s stories, we accumulate a vast amount of merits through rejoicing! Yay! It also creates fresh merits through rejoicing in others than rejoicing on our own.

      Like Gungtang Rinpoche has said:
      How to perform great virtue while relaxing? Rejoice! Meditate on that!

      A search of Wikipedia, reveals that Kek Lok si is Ji Le Si (極樂寺), which means Happy Temple. The first abbot of Kek Lok Si was Beow Lean. I think it means Master Miao Lian, the Teacher of Master Xuyun.

      Of the Hakka people who supported Miao Lian, one of them was known as Zhang Bishi
      张弼士(马来西亚) which is actually Cheong Fatt Tze. Cheong Fatt Tze, and his ‘The Blue Mansion’ is a well known place to visit in Penang. In the autobiography of Master Xuyun, it mentioned that The Penang Fujian laity supported Miao Lian throughout the Dharma project of building the Ji Luo Temple were Zhang Bishi (张弼士), Zhang Yunan (张煜南), Xie Rongguang (谢荣光), Zheng Si Wen (郑嗣文), and Dai Xinran (戴欣然).

      In the account also, there were few records of how Master Xuyun subdued the mind of animals like birds, cows, tiger and geese by teaching them the refuge formula. Incredible! They behaved just like a human. The geese even joined the sangha and circumambulate the Buddha’s and Bodhisattva’s statues. And some were given Buddhist rites and funerals and incredible things happened.

      Inside it mentioned many times how Protectors of Dharma helped him or gave Him instructions. I wonder what it meant? Just like how Dorje Shugden appeared and helped many? That means, Master Xuyun must have close connections with Dharma Protector.

      I was sad knowing that Master Xuyun and his group were beaten, put under the sun, and were not allowed food nor drinks or even relieving themselves in Singapore in His 77th year. This is also why we are reminded to have equanimity and to treat everyone with kindness as we do not know who we will encounter, perhaps Bodhisattvas? How heavy negative virtues were created due to this?

      He also recounted some amazing stories of layman’s life and how they achieved in BuddhaDharma. It gives me hope as a layperson who wishes to practice Dharma although we couldn’t live a monastic life. Perseverance, consistency, faith, and trust in the Guru, Buddha, and Dharma, and with the support of the Sangha are important.

      If only I could read and understand Mandarin. It’s a monumental task for the translator to accurately convey the actual meaning that the poet has, in his or her mind. I believe it could have a more profound meaning for some. This reminds me of the importance of having Western writers like John Blofeld and Bill Porter. However, I appreciate reading this autobiography.

  2. Samfoonheei on Oct 23, 2021 at 1:04 pm

    Inspiring Master Xuyun or Hsu Yun a renowned Chinese Chan Buddhist master was one of the most influential Buddhist teachers of the 19th and 20th centuries. An extraordinary Buddhist Master had gone through countless hardships and illnesses yet continue tirelessly worked as a bodhisattva, giving teachings, explaining sutras and even restoring old temples. Going through all the hardships did not stop him from his Dharma endeavours. He had successfully revitalised the Chinese Buddhist teachings, and had since benefitted many. Master Xuyun has spent his whole life devoted to the Dharma. He lived into his 120th year, and his life spanned two centuries and three dynasties. Interesting read of a bodhisattva.
    Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor Adeline for this inspiring sharing.

    • Jacinta Goh on Mar 8, 2023 at 1:11 pm

      Actually, Master Xuyun himself recounted that he had:

      ‘While I have witnessed five reigns and four dynasties in turn,
      great changes have occurred.’

      pg 160 The five reigns of Dao-guang, Xian-feng, Tong-zhi, Guang-xu and Xuan-tong. The four
      dynasties are: Manchu, Republic of China, the Puppet regime of Wang Jing-wei during
      the Japanese occupation, and the present Communist government of Beijing.

      Just wanna share this.

  3. S.Prathap on May 18, 2020 at 3:02 pm

    Master Xuyun has spent his entire life devoted to the Dharma,During the war many monasteries and holy sites was destroyed but somehow Master Xuyun managed to restore once again.
    Master Xuyun has gone through a lot of hardship in the Dharma path. I do admire and bow down for His persistence in Dharma.Thank you very much for the sharing a good article with us.

  4. Samfoonheei on Aug 4, 2019 at 12:08 pm

    Master Xuyun was a renowned Chinese Chan Buddhist master and one of the most influential Buddhist teachers of the 19th and 20th centuries. His great and many achievement have inspired many till today. Building and restoring many temples , monasteries all over China, Master Xuyun has spent much of his life devoted to the Dharma. He even revitalised the Chinese Buddhist teachings, that has benefited many Buddhist practitioners around the world. He has gone through a lot of hardship and suffering to be where he was. His life time witnessed tremendously changes in the political and cultural life of China. He was a great master whose pure example stood out amongst many other good masters, who all worked together in various ways to keep the Buddha’s teaching alive.
    Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor Adeline for this sharing of a GREAT master.

  5. Valentina Suhendra on Jul 26, 2018 at 5:27 am

    I was walking past a second hand shop on Western Ave selling old things. They had a Japanese-style clay Buddha which was beige in colour on the floor, holding the door open. I thought the shopkeeper would collect a lot of negative karma without knowing if he kept such a holy item on the floor as a doorstop. So I went in to talk to him, but he didn’t look like he wanted to talk or that he even cared. So I asked him the price and he said US$5. I purchased it so he did not collect more negative karma. I was 17 years old and that was in 1982.

    I escorted my new Buddha home and washed it lightly and wiped it. I placed it on my altar and was happy with the Buddha. I would do my meditations, prayers, sadhanas, mantras and prostrations in front of this shrine daily. When I left for India in 1987, I could not bring this Buddha along and gave it to a friend. It was a nice size and I made offerings to this Buddha for many years in Los Angeles. In front of the Buddha I placed His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s photo. I remember I was so relieved that the price was affordable. But US$5 that time was still expensive for me but worth it I thought. But I was happy to have brought the Buddha home. Tsem Rinpoche

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com

    Altar1

    Altar2

  6. Pastor Shin Tan on Jul 17, 2018 at 4:20 pm

    Tsem Rinpoche at Kechara Forest Retreat, Bentong, Malaysia

    TR Pic

    • James on Jul 25, 2018 at 8:23 pm

      This is very nice photo!

  7. Stella Cheang on Jan 21, 2018 at 11:09 am

    Master Xuyun’s life story is inspiring for he dedicate his whole life for Dharma, through “preaching the Dharma and Buddhist code of conduct, restoring monasteries and temples and holy sites, he had successfully revitalised the Chinese Buddhist teachings, especially the Chan teachings.” Thank you for this article.

  8. Valentina Suhendra on Oct 20, 2017 at 12:55 am

    H.E. the 25th Tsem Rinpoche is very devoted to his root guru, H.H. Zong Rinpoche.

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  9. Paul Yap on Apr 23, 2017 at 10:52 pm

    Master Xuyun is highly attained and live a very humble life. His story definitely inspired many to follow the dharma path. He has once stay in samadhi for more than 15 days until an inch of mould covering his taro. His’s wish to stay on Mount Jizu, build a hut on the mountain to receive pilgrims, saving the degenerated sangha, and restoring the holy site of Mahakashyapa has a great influence on reviving the Buddhism in China. His life story is quite unusual, he is just like a Bodhisattva who has emanated in the human realm to show the path to enlightenment.

  10. Fong on Apr 22, 2017 at 4:32 pm

    “Three years passed, with Xuyun living on pine needles, grass, and water from the mountain stream.”

    Just this reminds me of Milarepa who survived on nettle while meditating. so much so, that he turned green form eating only the nettles for a long time. Such resolve in both Milarepa and Xuyun.

    Such was the beginning of an extraordinary person with resolve. It is the determined spirit that did so much purification, and spreading of the dharma. The stories of his moving the rock to build the pond and such just go to show his attainments.

    Thank you for such an inspiring article on Xuyun.

  11. So Kin Hoe (KISG) on Apr 5, 2017 at 5:19 pm

    Thank you Pastor Adeline Woon for sharing the inspiring article about Master Xuyun. The article is well written and arranged according to each stage of Master Xuyun’s life that enable us to read and follow easily without confusion.

    Master Xuyun has set many good examples for us to follow from the beginning of his young age until to the time of his death. Master Xuyun’s strong determination and persistency in learning, practicing and following the Buddhadharma regardless of experiencing any kind of conditions physically and mentally, has taught us that we should never abandon our Buddhadharma practice even at the verge of our death. Based on what I have learned from Master Xuyun, we should not have any feelings of regret at all when facing any obstacle in Buddhadharma practice because we will be accountable for our own karma and in the end, we will leave everything behind after our death. Thus, our lives should be lived on meaningfully according to Buddha’s teachings so that we can help others while we are still in one piece.

    The Song of the Skin Bag written by Master Xuyun consist the teaching of renunciation, emptiness, mind training, consistency in Buddhadharma practice, realization of the truth, gaining wisdom through Buddhadharma and many teachings that guide us on how to work for the benefits of others and remove our sufferings due to our own negativity. This prayer is easy to understand and absorb, especially for lay practitioner like me.

    May the Buddhadharma spread and grow towards the 10 directions to alleviate the sufferings experienced by many sentient beings. May every sentient beings meet with Buddhadharma and practicing Buddhadharma until the samsara ends.

    With folded hands,
    kin hoe

  12. wan wai meng on Apr 2, 2017 at 2:57 am

    Very interesting story about this amazing monk, that he taught tirelessly and although he facd so much difficulty at times, he never relented or gave he kept on going benefitting others.

    The song of the skin bag, feels like a version of Yonten Shigyurma, whereby the entire Lamrim path at least its essence were laid out within the Yontne Shigyurma. Happy to know Malaysians during this monk’s tie took an interest into his teaching and they took refuge as well.

  13. Tan Soon Huat on Apr 1, 2017 at 5:11 pm

    Master Xuyun has gone through a lot of hardship in the Dharma path. I do admire and bow down for His persistancy in Dharma. He seems gone through very similar path like Rinpoche, always want to go to temple to be sangha despite all the obstacles that His father given to stop him to pursue Dharma. It showed again that the precious Dharma we are learnting is coming from a lot of hardship, we should appreciate it.

    Thank You Pastor Adeline for the great sharing.

  14. Choong on Mar 31, 2017 at 10:52 pm

    Wow, this is so inspiring. He was so close to us Malaysians in time and location. He even taught at the Cheng Hoon Teng temple in Malacca! Most important is he has left a very inspiring legacy full of wisdom and meritorious deeds. Thank you Pastor Adeleine for this writeup.

  15. Anne Ong on Mar 30, 2017 at 10:27 pm

    Thank you Pastor Adeline for this very inspiring and interesting story about Master Xuyun. His birth was an amazing and rare part that i have never heard of. Really caught my attention and made me read the story further. And he went through so much hardship and purification and finally gained relizations through meditation. Another interesting part was when he dreamed of Mahakashyapa who cured him from his illness. And travelled to many countries like Malaysia and Thailand to spread dharma and also helped to rebuild many monasteries.

  16. Sarah on Mar 30, 2017 at 8:09 pm

    Thank you for this interesting story of Master Xuyun. His birth is very interesting and quite rare. In Europe, children born this way are said to be born under a lucky star. I know of another great master who was born this way. He is the Venerable Dagpo Rinpoche who lives in France and who founded the Institut Guepele. It seems in Tibet this type of birth is also considered to be a good sign and the child will become very lucky later on in life. But like Master Xuyun’s mother, Dagpo Rinpoche’s mother was also terrified to see her child born in the form of a balloon. She initially thought that the baby had neither arms nor legs. After reading about the lives of these two masters, I really do think they were born under a lucky star. They both became great Buddhist masters.

    • Pastor David Lai on Mar 31, 2017 at 11:49 pm

      Thank you Sarah for the other examples of other masters who are born while still in the amniotic sac. I believe that great masters like Xuyun would have displayed many signs including the manner in which he was born.

      They are probably emanations of Bodhisattvas or the rebirth of great masters with high spiritual realization. Such great beings would always have many auspicious signs because their existence would be of benefit to many beings and especially the propagation of the lineage. It is indeed rare to read about such masters these days because less and less great beings are manifesting such powerful examples of enlightenment these days.

    • Pastor Adeline Woon on Apr 2, 2017 at 12:43 am

      Thank you, Sarah for sharing the similarities between Master Xuyun and Dagpo Rinpoche’s birth and the symbolism behind it. As it is rare for people to be born in such situations, and as far as we know those who were born like this are indeed special, it does explain the positivity of the situation without looking at the birth condition based on our ordinary perceptions.

      You have provided us with a different perspective to understand the way both masters are born in, thus expanding our views on identifying auspicious signs that indicate the birth of a great being.

  17. Samfoonheei on Mar 30, 2017 at 3:28 pm

    Very inspiring true story of a monk…Master Xuyun after going through many hardships and illness to pursue what he wanted to be. What he did was amazing travelling in harsh conditions to so many places just to preach chinese buddhism from one country to another. Master Xuyun has spent his entired life devoted to the Dharma,During the war many monasteries and holy sites was destroyed but somehow Master Xuyun managed to restore once again.Because of him ,those monasteries and holy sites were till today. He was a household name at that time and have inspired many modern spiritual seeker to strive along the path towards enlightenment.
    Thank you Pastor Adeline Woon for such an interesting and inspiring article.

    • Pastor Adeline Woon on Apr 1, 2017 at 8:16 am

      Dear Sam,

      Master Xuyun was said to have repaired 108 temples in his life time. Restorations of the Buddhist temples are necessary in order to preserve the Buddhadharma. Things have never been easy but Master Xuyun, yet he did not gave up but continued without complain. To him, it was just to do what was necessary. This is the same as what Rinpoche has always teaches us and do himself: do the right thing and to go all the way with is. There’s always benefit when we do so.

      Take care,
      Pastor Adeline

  18. Lester on Mar 30, 2017 at 10:28 am

    Thanks for sharing. Master Xuyun has been one of the most inspiring Buddhist masters. There is this anecdote about his disciple who entered into nirvana in spontaneous combustion, an even witnessed by many. If you understand Chinese, the story is here http://fo.ifeng.com/fojiaogushi/detail_2014_08/25/38491799_0.shtml . With folded hands.

    • Pastor Adeline Woon on Apr 1, 2017 at 7:35 am

      Dear Lester,

      Thank you very much for the story you have shared. Imagine if Master Xuyun’s student can achieve such powerful samadhi, he himself must have much higher achievements. Yet, he praised his student’s achievement with great humility. The more you read about his life and stories like this, the more respect you have for him. And without a doubt, he is one of the great masters of our time.

      Thank you,
      Pastor Adeline

      • Lester on Apr 1, 2017 at 9:09 am

        Yes pastor. You did not mention the part where Master Xuyun was beaten up badly by Red Guards and he went Tushita heaven briefly, requesting Maitreya Bodhisattva to let him stay there, but Maitreya refused. I bet Master Xuyun saw Lama Tsongkhapa there. 🙂

        • Pastor Adeline Woon on Apr 2, 2017 at 12:22 am

          Dear Lester,

          I believe he may had a brief meeting 😀 There are many masters in the Zen tradition who exhibits great compassion and kindness. The Zen methods of practise are very similar to that of Tantra in Buddhism which is within the Mahayana teachings of the Buddha also. With the little I have read, I have a better understanding of how different traditions of Buddhism compliment each other and I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and share given by Rinpoche.

          It is nice to read comments from your and please continue to share with us on various posts Rinpoche had on this informative and wonderful platform.

          Have a good weekend,
          Pastor Adeline

          • Lester on Apr 2, 2017 at 9:13 am

            No problem pastor. Chan Buddhism is another big topic. It is intuitive and has no ritual. It is for the Creme de Le Creme. Thanks for sharing.

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Blog Chat

BLOG CHAT

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

Tsem Rinpoche


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

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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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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

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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
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
Click to watch my talk about Dorje Shugden....