Sacred Mountains Around the World

Nov 19, 2017 | Views: 1,716
Mount Kailash

Mount Kailash

Towering imposingly and majestically in the sky, mountains are believed to possess supernatural properties because they are closer to heaven than any other earthly feature. Interestingly, many mountains are linked to spirituality and enlightened beings, such as the Buddha and Jesus.

From the earliest times, many peoples from the Greeks and Native Americans to the Indians and Polynesians have placed mountains central to their beliefs. The power of such sacred places is believed to enhance the mortal experience and sometimes, it is even forbidden to climb them out of respect.

The mountain calls to us with its calm and serene environment and is often chosen as the site for religious retreats. Pilgrimages to holy mountains are also a way to connect to the sacred and they allow us to purify our sins through the rigour of an arduous climb. In some religions, adherents are urged to make such a pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime.

Here is a selection of sacred mountains scattered across the globe. They are revered by people separated by vast spaces but united in their awe and regard for these magnificent giants of nature.

 

1. Mount Fuji, Japan

SMATW007

Mount Fuji or Fujisan is the tallest peak in Japan at 3,776 metres. It is located on Honshu Island, about 100 kilometres southwest of Tokyo within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, the most visited National Park in the country.

It is an active volcano which last erupted on December 16, 1707. Few people know that Mount Fuji actually has two active volcanoes within it, Komitake and Kofuji. Its surface is 182 miles wider than the city of Tokyo.

There are five lakes located at Mount Fuji: Kawaguchiko, Yamanakako, Saiko, Motosuko and Shojiko. Out of the five lakes, Kawaguchiko is the most developed and also the most accessible.

Mount Fuji is an important and well-known symbol of Japan, frequently represented in the country’s art for centuries. It is the inspiration behind the brand Fujifilm, while the Fuji apple, a river, a city, a Japanese warship and an asteroid discovered in 1927 by the Japanese astronomer, Oikawa, also share the same name. There is even a Fuji Rock Festival, Fuji Speedway and Fuji Television.

A magnificent view of Mt.Fuji

A magnificent view of Mount Fuji

The name Mount Fuji is thought to have come from the Ainu people, the original inhabitants of Honshu. Their god of fire and the hearth is called ‘Fuchi’ and this is believed to be the root of the name ‘Fuji’.

Mount Fuji is important to the Shinto religion, which is the main faith in Japan. An unknown Shinto monk is believed to have been the first person to ascend Mount Fuji, completing the trek in the 7th century. Princess Konohanasakuya, the mythical princess of the blossom has since the 15th century CE been the main deity associated with Mount Fuji.

Map indicating the location of Mt.Fuji. Click on image to enlarge.

Map indicating the location of Mount Fuji. Click on image to enlarge.

The volcano is seen as a sacred kami or spirit and climbing Mount Fuji is considered a Shinto pilgrimage. There are important shrines, caves, springs and even a waterfall located on the mountain. The most important Shinto shrine is the Fujisan Jongu Sengen Taisha. This area is also famous for the approximately 500 cherry trees which blossom in April.

Many writers and artists have been inspired by Mount Fuji. The 8th century poetry anthology, Manyoshu, contains many lines dedicated to the mountain. It also appears in haiku poems by Matsuo Basho (1644-1694 CE), including this one:

In the land of Yamato,

It is our treasure, our tutelary god.

It never tires our eyes to look up

To the lofty peak of Mount Fuji
~ Manyoshu (Dougill, 17)

The climate/ecosystem is tundra which means that the temperature is consistently below freezing. As a result, many plants cannot grow there and only various mosses, herbs and small shrubs cover the rocks and the ground.

A simple checklist while visiting Mt.Fuji. Click on image to enlarge.

A simple checklist while visiting Mount Fuji. Click on image to enlarge.

The best time to visit Mount Fuji is between October and February as the visibility is generally best during these months. In winter, there is also a lot of snow on the peak. Climbers who want to ascend Mount Fuji have a window of just two months – from the beginning of July to the end of August. Every year, about 300,000 people make the ascent and of these, 70% are Japanese while 30% are foreigners.

The main attractions in the area are:

  • Kubota Museum dedicated to the kimono artist
  • An amusement park with roller coasters
  • The Sengen Shrine
  • The Chureito Pagoda, with Mount Fuji in the background
  • Iyashi no Sato, a small open-air museum that focuses on village craft
  • Hot springs (onsen), some of which have a view of Mount Fuji
  • The Mount Tenjo Ropeway
  • Oshino Hakkai, a tourist village with eight ponds
  • Caves created by past eruptions of Mount Fuji

SMATW001

 

2. Mount Kailash, Tibet

The Unclimbable Mountain, they call it.

At 6,638 metres, Mount Kailash is neither the world’s tallest mountain nor the one with the most difficult ascent. Yet, expert mountaineers and team after team have either been unable to complete the journey to the summit because of sudden inclement weather or outright refused to do so for reasons not always made clear.

Myth tells us that the only person who successfully gazed down on the world from the peak of Mount Kailash was the famed Tibetan mystic, Milarepa, who made the trek about 900 years ago. So, what power does this mysterious peak hold?

SMATW011

The imposing Mount Kailash is shaped like a diamond, with four steep, black sides. It is located in Tibet in the Burang County of Ngari Prefecture. Darchen Village, located about 1,216 kilometres away from the Tibetan capital, Lhasa, is the gateway to Kailash.

It is said that Mount Kailash is the holiest place in the world. Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Bön followers all view Mount Kailash as their sacred mountain.

A map of Mount Kailash. Click on image to enlarge.

A map of Mount Kailash. Click on image to enlarge.

In Jainism, Mount Kailash is named Mount Ashtapada and is believed to be the location where Rishabhadeva gained liberation from rebirth. In the Bön religion, which existed in Tibet before Buddhism, Mount Kailash is the home of the sky goddess Sipaimen. In Hinduism, it is known as Kailash Parbat, the home of Shiva, the god of destruction and regeneration. It is their paradise and regarded as the spiritual centre of the world. For Tibetan Buddhists, Kailash or Gang Rinpoche is the abode of Buddha Demchok or Heruka Chakrasamvara.

Pilgrims visiting Mount Kailash circumambulate the holy mountain to clear their bad karma (sins). The trek distance is about 32 miles (51.5 kilometres) long with altitudes ranging from 15,000 feet to 19,000 feet. They circumambulate according to their religion, either clockwise or anti-clockwise, and the route is called a kora in Tibetan or parikrama in Sanskrit. The circumambulation can be completed in a single day, taking about 14 hours but visitors, especially those sight-seeing, can take up to three days.

People who are not physically able to cover the distance on foot can opt to hire a yak, a pony or a motor vehicle. Many Tibetans perform the kora of Mount Kailash either 3, 13 or even 108 times. Others do full-length body prostrations along the circuit, a gruelling feat that takes weeks to accomplish.

The full-length body prostrations can take up weeks to complete

The full-length body prostrations around the mountain can take weeks to complete

There are two lakes that form part of the landscape here. The first is Lake Mansarovar, which is part of the pilgrimage site. Located at the foot of Mount Kailash, it is the highest freshwater lake in the world at an altitude of 4,500 metres and considered one of the holiest lakes in Asia. Its surface shimmers in a stunning play of colours as light meets water.

Other important attractions are the Tirthapuri hot springs, Gauri Kund – the lake of compassion, and Yam Dwar – the starting point of the Parikrama. Asthapad (Eight Steps) is the place where the founder of Jainism, Tirthankara Shri Rishabhadev Bhagwan attained Nirvana, at the base of Mount Kailash.

Another map of Mount Kailash. Click on image to enlarge.

Another map of Mount Kailash. Click on image to enlarge.

The best time to visit the Unclimbable Mountain is between April and October as the average temperature is a pleasant 15°C. Saga Dawa, a grand religious festival that is one of the most significant in Buddhism, is celebrated in May and June. Celebrations here infuse a splash of colour into the stark surroundings.

SMATW010

 

3. Mauna Kea, Hawaii

A million years old and the tallest mountain on earth if measured from its underwater base, Mouna Kea, also known as ‘Mauna a Wakea’ is one of the most sacred sites for native Hawaiians and occupies an important place in their mythology. It was also a historical burial place as remains have been found next to the lake.

The name means ‘white mountain’, inspired by its snow-covered peak, and attracts many pilgrims who climb up its steep slopes. Rising about 4,207 metres above sea level, it is the highest peak in the Pacific. However, its height from the bottom of the ocean floor in the Pacific Ocean is more than 10 kilometres, which makes it taller than Mount Everest.

A beautiful shot of Mouna Kea

A beautiful shot of Mauna Kea

In Hawaiian mythology, the roof of the mountain belongs to the gods. The name Mauna a Wakea has its origins in the Hawaiian sky father, Wakea, who is considered the father of the Hawaiian people. Wakea is the partner of Papahanaumoku, the earth mother who gave birth to the Hawaiian islands. The summit is considered the realm of the gods and in ancient times it was ‘kapu‘ (forbidden) to all except the highest chiefs and priests. Poli’ahu, the snow goddess of Mauna Kea, is the rival of Pele, the goddess of the fiery volcanoes, who resides at Mauna Loa.

A map of Mouna Kea. Click on image to enlarge.

A map of Mouna Kea. Click on image to enlarge.

Next to Mauna Kea is Lake Waiau, situated at an altitude of 3,970 metres. The name Waiau means “swirling water” in Hawaiian. The water of Lake Waiau is said to be pure and has long been used for healing and worship purposes. It is said that the goddess Waiau used to bathe in the lake, thus it is considered very sacred and is still used for certain rituals such as discarding the umbilical cord of a newborn to ensure good fortune and strength for the baby.

With a sacred mountain and similarly sacred lake situated in such close proximity, the area is alive with energy and power. Unfortunately, it seems that the water of Lake Waiau is now disappearing.

Those who want to climb to the peak of Mauna Kea should know that it can be 40 degrees cooler compared to the beach. It is recommended to not attempt an ascent in the months of January and February as there can be severe snowstorms.

The sky from Mauna Kea

The sky from Mauna Kea

SMATW017

SMATW016

 

4. San Francisco Peaks, Arizona

The Native American tribes are some of the most honourable people to ever walk the earth. Despite their ferocity in battle, they respected nature, adhered to high standards of self-discipline and observed lofty principles of fairness. This philosophy was a gift from their gods, some of whom their legends say lived on the mountains of the San Francisco Peaks.

The San Francisco Peaks are a volcanic mountain range in Arizona, located north of Flagstaff and about 80 kilometres south of the Grand Canyon. The three main peaks are Humphreys Peak at 3,850 metres, Agassiz Peak at 3,766 metres, and Fremont Peak at 3,649 metres. The range is part of the Kachina Peaks Wilderness Area.

The San Francisco Peaks

The San Francisco Peaks

According to local legend, the mountain range got its name because one could supposedly see the city of San Francisco from here, which is of course not the case. Other sources say the name is a reference to the order of the Franciscans named after St. Francis of Assisi.

The San Francisco Peaks are sacred to local Native American tribes like the Navajo, Hopi, Havasupai, Apache, Acoma and Zuni. Each has its own name for the range and it occupies a particular place in the legends unique to that tribe.

A close-up of the San Francisco Peaks. Click on image to enlarge.

A close-up of the San Francisco Peaks. Click on image to enlarge.

The Hopi people, for example, consider the San Francisco Peaks a pure and sacred space and have used it to conduct ceremonies for millennia. They believe that the katsinam or kachina, spirit messengers, reside at the Peaks and become clouds after they pass away. The katsinam serve as spiritual guides to the Hopi people and visit them during the first part of the year.

According to Navajo mythology, four sacred mountains surround their territory: Mount Hesperus Dibé Nitsaa in the North, Mount Bianca in the East, Mount Taylor in the South, and the San Francisco Peaks or Dook’o’oslííd in the West.

Dook’o’oslííd in Navajo means “the summit which never melts”. According to Navajo mythology, Dook’o’oslííd was created by the God Áltsé hastiin, the first man, and Áltse adzáá, the first woman, and was attached to the sky by a ray of sunlight.

SMATW024

The region offers a range of outdoor activities, particularly a wide range of hiking trails to suit everyone from the novice hiker to the experienced trekker looking for a challenge. The snowy peaks are great for skiing and snowmobiling, while equestrian activities are also very popular.

The most visited region is around Humphreys Peak, where there are options for climbing, hiking, mountaineering and even skiing. The best time for climbing Humphreys Peak is from June to October. The winds are strong, especially in the spring, so it is recommended you avoid the March to June period.

SMATW023

SMATW027

 

5. Mount Sinai, Sinai Peninsula

Perhaps the best known of all sacred mountains for its enduring depiction in Christian and Jewish stories and in popular culture, Mount Sinai is a testament to how just a name can elicit great joy in people for its intimate link with our beliefs.

Mount Sinai is located in Egypt on the Sinai Peninsula and rises to a height of 2,285 metres. It is sacred to three religions – Christianity, Judaism and Islam.

SMATW032

No trace of any Jewish places of worship remain, although the Moses Cave, where the Jewish prophet is said to have waited before God revealed the Ten Commandments to him does exist and can be visited. At the foot of the mountain, a Greek Orthodox chapel called Saint Catherine’s Monastery built in 565 CE, still stands while a mosque was built at the summit over a thousand years later.

A map of Mount Sinai. Click on image to enlarge.

A map of Mount Sinai. Click on image to enlarge.

St. Catherine’s Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in the world. This is also where the biblical site of the Burning Bush can be found – it is said to have been transplanted to this spot from a few yards away so that it came into the security of the courtyard; however, the Church insists that it is the original site. The 700 metre ascent from the monastery to the summit can be completed either on foot or on a camel. It consists of nearly 4,000 steps.

The mosque on top of Mount Sinai is still active while the Greek Orthodox chapel is not open to the public. Yet, the former does not feature in religious history while the latter is said to be the source of the rock used for the Tablets of Stone of the Bible and Torah .

The Sinai region has the climate of a desert. It is recommended to travel there either in spring or autumn as the summers are very hot. In spring, the sky will probably be clearer and the area will have more vegetation and water. In the winter, it can be incredibly cold and even snow on the mountain.

SMATW034

Close-up of Mount Sinai

Close-up of Mount Sinai

SMATW033

 

6. Mount Shasta, California

Map of Mount Shasta. Click on image to enlarge.

Map of Mount Shasta. Click on image to enlarge.

Bigfoot, UFOs and a pre-Atlantean pygmy race – these are just a small cross-section of the amazing tales that surround the mysterious Mount Shasta. Revered for millennia by the Native Americans, it has experienced a rejuvenation of sorts with the rise of New Age mysticism.

Mount Shasta is located in Northern California, USA, and is part of the Cascade Mountain Range. It is a potentially active volcano with a height of 4,322 metres and one of the largest volcanic peaks in the US. Mount Shasta last erupted in 1786. It is said that the area around Mount Shasta is where the oldest known settlement in the region was located, roughly 7,000 years ago.

Sunset at Mount Shasta

Sunset at Mount Shasta

In the Karuk language of the Native Americans, Mount Shasta is called Úytaahkoo meaning “White Mountain”, a reference to its snowy slopes. Many Native American tribes like the Wintu, Karuk, Okwanuchu and Modoc as well as the Sastise Indians lived close to the mountain. It is also home to several sacred tribal sites where medicine men and women were trained, spiritual vision quests were held, and healing and guiding were given.

The local tribes describe a war between the spirit of the underworld, Llao, who lived under Mount Mazama and Skell, the spirit of the sky ‘Above-World’. Llao was rejected by the beautiful princess of the Klamath tribe, Loha, and he rained fire down upon her people in anger. They begged for Skell to intercede and he responded by engaging Llao in battle and defeating him. Llao’s decapitated head became Wizard’s Island which sits on Crater Lake, supposedly created by Skell over the dark pit where Llao’s remains were entombed.

SMATW038

According to Native American belief, there are “The Little People of Mount Shasta” living within the mountain. They are about four feet tall and serve as the guardians of the sacred sites. Post-Native American legends say these beings are able to make themselves invisible at will and their ancestors are the pre-Atlantean people of Lemuria. It is also believed that there are 1.5 million Lemurians living deep inside Mount Shasta who have unlimited health and wealth and live in a Utopian community.

Bigfoot sightings have been reported in some secluded areas of Mount Shasta. Mount Shasta is also known for UFO sightings. The confluence of ancient traditions, urban legends and modern mysteries at Mount Shasta suggests that there are powerful forces at play in this sacred place, which explains its popularity within the New Age beliefs community.

SMATW039

Apart from an exploration of the myriad tales and myths, there are many physical activities to indulge in while at Mount Shasta. Its warm and dry summers and long, very cold and wet winters are perfect for outdoor exploration. Hiking or biking on hundreds of miles of trails, bird watching, water sports and different snow sports in the wintertime are especially popular.

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta

SMATW040

 

7. Mount Olympus, Greece

Greek myths have influenced literature, thought and civilisation itself for almost three millennia. No aspect of life has remained untouched from the influence or stories of the Greek deities. The gods of the Greek pantheon live on today in modern fiction and in our minds and imagination, but their mythical home is Mount Olympus.

SMATW043

Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece, the second-highest mountain in the Balkans, and is situated within the Olympos massif, the tallest mountain range in the country. The slopes of Mount Olympus lie about 263 kilometres from the capital, Athens, and 78 kilometres from Thessaloniki, in northern Greece.

In Greek mythology, Mount Olympus is the abode of the twelve Olympian gods: Zeus, Hera, Poseidon, Athena, Apollo, Artemis, Hestia, Demeter, Hermes, Aphrodite, Ares and Hephaestus.

Mytikas, the highest peak at 2,918 metres was called Pantheon, the site where the gods met. Thronos Dios, known today as Stefani, was where the god Zeus had his throne, according to the Greek poet, Homer. At the northern foot of the mountain, in Pieria, lived the nine Muses, daughters of Zeus, together with their mother Mnemosyne, the Titaness of memory and remembrance. The Muses were the patrons of the Fine Arts: art, literature and science.

SMATW044

According to legend, before the Olympian Gods moved to Mount Olympus, they defeated the Titans then built their home on Mount Olympus to watch over the world of the mortals.

Outside of mythology, Mount Olympus is also home to the highest-altitude chapel of Orthodox Christianity. It is located on Profitis Ilias and was erected in the 16th century by Saint Dionysios of Olympus. In 1987, a very important mosaic was found here and was restored and moved to a protected site.

SMATW045

Mount Olympus was originally named Mount Belus. In the time of the Ottoman Empire, it was the base of anti-Turk operations by local resistance fighters as well as during the resistance against the German occupation (1941-1944) and later when the Greek Civil War started in Litochoro (1946-1949).

In 1938, the region surrounding Mount Olympus was declared a National Park and it features some of the richest flora anywhere in Greece. The Olympus National Park is also home to a variety of animals such as deer, wolves, wild goats, wild boar, chamois, foxes, jackals and wild cats. Many endangered birds like rare woodpeckers and the golden eagle, as well as a huge number of butterflies are native to the Park

SMATW046

The Mediterranean climate has hot and dry summers, humid and cold winters, and snow and rain are not uncommon even during the summer at higher altitudes. As such, Mount Olympus is a haven for outdoor activities such as hiking, paragliding, climbing, canyoning, birdwatching and even skiing, as the seasons permit.

The Olympus Marathon ends every year at Litochoro, a town on the eastern side of the mountain. There are also museums to be visited such as the Geological History Museum and the Dion Archaeological Museum, which has excellent audio-visual information on Mount Olympus.

SMATW047

SMATW048

SMATW049

 

8. Wu Tai Shan, China

Map of Wu Tai Shan. Click on image to enlarge.

Map of Wu Tai Shan. Click on image to enlarge.

If the sanctity of sacred mountains is to be judged by the number of places of worship that have been carved and chipped into their age-old facades, Wu Tai Shan in China would easily be one of the most revered. Over the centuries, not only have hundreds of such sites been created here by human hands, but countless other caves and caverns have seen some of the most blessed practitioners of Buddhism hallow them with their presence and meditations.

Wu Tai Shan is the source of the river Qingshui in the province of Shanxi, in the North-Eastern region of China. The meaning of the name Wu Tai Shan is ‘Five Terrace Mountain’. It stands at a height of 3,061 metres and is one of the Four Sacred Mountains according to Chinese Buddhism.

Wu Tai Shan has five flat-topped peaks; the Northern Peak is the highest at 3,061 metres and is also the highest point in North China, earning it the moniker “Roof of Northern China”. The other peaks are Wanghai Peak or “Peak Overlooking the Sea” in the East, Guayue Peak or “Hanging Moon Peak” in the West, Jinxiu Peak or “Splendour Peak” in the South, Yedou Peak or “Peak of Flourishing Leaves” in the north, and finally Cuiyan Peak or “Peak of Green Rocks” in the centre.

SMATW054

Known as the Purple Palace Mountain or Zi Fu Shan in the Taoist tradition, Wu Tai Shan was a sacred mountain even before Buddhism arrived in China and many Taoist saints have lived there. From a Buddhist perspective, it is said to be extremely sacred as it is the earthly abode of Manjushri, the Bodhisattva of Wisdom.

SMATW053

Wu Tai Shan is divided into the inner Mount Wu Tai and the Outer Mount Wu Tai, and is peppered with many temples and sacred caves. Major sites to visit include The Great White Stupa at the Tayuan Temple, the Manjushri’s Hair Stupa, the Yuanzhoa Temple, and the Rahula Temple or Luohou Temple to name just a few.

During the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220 CE), many Buddhist temples were built on these peaks. Buton Rinchen Drub states in his work “The History of Buddhism” that the first Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo (617-650 CE) built 108 temples on Wu Tai Shan. There were a further 360 temples added during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE).

SMATW050

According to the Testament of Ba, an account written by a member of King Trisong Detsen’s (755-797 CE) court, the Tibetans made a detour to visit Wu Tai Shan in 755 CE even though it made the trip much longer. The first depiction of Wu Tai Shan was recorded for the Tibetan King Trisong Detsen who requested a map of the mountain. Today, more than 53 sacred monasteries or temples remain on Mount Wu Tai and some of them are considered the most important of their kind in the country.

The best time to visit Wu Tai Shan is between June and September as you will be able to listen to teachings by ordained monks and nuns. It is also when the Tiaobuza Festival, a Buddhist cultural festival, is held every year.

SMATW051

The climate in Wu Tai Shan is cold with an early winter and the temperature dips below zero from October to April. It is recommended to always bring warm clothing, even if visiting during the warmer months.

SMATW055

 

9. Uluru, Australia

The pleasure of the alien sight, the wonder of an orange-red monolith rising up out of the flatness of the desert, the play of light that births and moulds shadows of seemingly preternatural inspiration… Uluru.

Aerial view of Mount Uluru

Aerial view of Mount Uluru

Known also as Ayers Rock, this amazing testament to the creative tilt that nature possesses is located in the centre of Australia, in the southern part of the Northern Territory state. It is about 335 kilometres from Alice Springs as the crow flies but the distance is about 450 kilometres by road.

Map of Mount Uluru. Click on image to enlarge.

Map of Mount Uluru. Click on image to enlarge.

Uluru and Kata Tjuta, also called the Olgas, together make up the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and are sacred to the Anangu Aboriginal people. Custody of Uluru and Kata Tjuta was returned to the Anangu people by the Australian Government in 1983. According to archaeological research, the aboriginal peoples have lived in Central Australia for 30,000 years.

Surrounded by the Central Australian desert, Uluru is believed to be more than 600 million years old. The monolith is made of sandstone and stands out with its height of 348 metres and circumference of 9.4 kilometres amidst the nothingness of its surroundings. According to geologists, Uluru is an island mountain and extends nearly 6 kilometres below ground.

Aboriginal myth speaks of the ‘Dreamtime’, ‘Dreaming’ or ‘Tjukurpa’, the creation at the beginning of time by their ancestral spirits. It has the meaning ‘to see and understand the law’ and is about past, present and future which they believe happen all at the same time. The Dreaming passes down cultural values and belief systems to younger generations through song, dance, painting and storytelling. Paintings depicting the events of the Dreaming have been found at Uluru.

SMATW059

One can take guided walks with park rangers to explore the sacred site. A walk around the base of Uluru covers a distance of about 10.6 kilometres but is well worth the effort for the amazing kaleidoscopic shift of colours on the surface of the rock caused by the rays of the sun. Learn about local plants and animals, and discover the Anangu culture for a well-rounded spiritual adventure.

The Anangu people have long discouraged visitors from climbing Mount Uluru, and the practice will become illegal in 2019.

SMATW060

The Mutitjulu Waterhole, home to the ancestral water snake of the Aboriginals, can be visited on a guided tour too. The paintings, symbols and figures at this age-old site represent animals and their tracks, waterholes and other local features. Stories are told to accompany the paintings to give greater depth of meaning and enhance the dimensions of the experience.

Talinguru Nyakunytjaku is a viewing area constructed in 2009 from which Uluru and the Olgas can be seen well. A cultural centre is attached to the National Park and is the best place to obtain information on various aspects of Aboriginal life, including bush food and traditional weapons and tools.

The temperature at Uluru in summer (December to February) can go as high as 47° Celsius and in winter (June to August), it can drop to –7° Celsius. December usually sees the highest temperatures and visitors must be aware of the risk of dehydration and heat stroke to protect themselves.

SMATW057

 

10. Vulture’s Peak, India

How unusual it is that a place with such significance in our lives is named for a creature that we seldom associate with goodness or spirituality. The Buddha himself walked the Griddhkuta, perhaps as a lesson to us that there is so much more to the true beauty of the soul than given names and outward appearances.

SMATW063

Vulture’s Peak or Griddhkuta is located in Rajgir or the Royal Mountain, in the Nalanda district of India’s Bihar state. It was here that the capital of the Magadha kingdom was located until the 5th century BCE. The name is derived from Rajagriha or “Royal House”.

The height of Vulture’s Peak is 388 metres and it is one of the eight great places for traditional Buddhist pilgrimage. Vulture’s Peak earned its name from the vultures who used to gather on its rocks.

Map of the Vulture's Peak. Click on image to enlarge.

Map of the Vulture’s Peak. Click on image to enlarge.

Vulture’s Peak is held in high esteem because so many monumental events in the life of the Buddha occurred here. It was Buddha Shakyamuni’s favourite place for his retreats, and the Buddha gave many of his teachings and sutra transmissions there. He taught the Prajnaparamita or Transcendent Perfection of Wisdom Sutra here and it is also here that the cave where Buddha discussed his teachings with his disciples for the first time is located.

It was on Vulture’s Peak that the Buddha tamed a wild elephant which had escaped. The escape was arranged by the Buddha’s jealous cousin, Devadatta, who wanted to hurt the Buddha. King Bimbisara also gifted Buddha the Venuvana, the bamboo grove in Nalanda which is known to be the first Buddhist monastery. It is located beside the Japanese Temple near the Rajgir Heritage Museum, which exhibits a treasure trove of Hindu and Buddhist sculpture from the Gupta and Pala Empires.

SMATW064

There is also Karanda, the place where Buddha bathed. Another important historical place is the Saptaparni Cave where the ‘Atanatiya’ or First Buddhist Council was held after the Buddha’s passing into Paranirvana.

Rajgir is also held in high regard by followers of Jainism and Hinduism. Lord Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, is said to have passed many years at Rajgir, and spent many rainy season retreats there. He was cremated at nearby Pawapuri in 500 BCE and the Jal Mandir temple is located there today.

Ananda's cave, where he meditated in. It's located along the way to Vulture's Peak.

Ananda’s cave, where he meditated. It’s located along the way to Vulture’s Peak.

The hot water springs of Rajgir are reputed to cure skin diseases; they are located at Venuvana at the foot of Vaibhava Hill. During Buddha’s time, there was a Buddhist monastery at Tapodarama, which is now known as the Hindu temple, Lakshmi Narayan Mandir. The Cyclopean Wall, constructed without the use of mortar thousands of years ago, runs 40 kilometres around the city of Rajgir and is an ancient engineering marvel. A ropeway leads to the Peace Pagoda or Rajgir Vishwa Shanti Stupa, which stands 38 metres tall.

Temperatures at Vulture’s Peak can go as high as 40°C in the summer and as low as 6°C at night in winter. The recommended time to visit Vulture’s Peak is from October to March, which is winter, because the daytime temperatures are ideal for exploring.

Sanghas making prayers at Vulture's Peak.

Sangha making prayers at Vulture’s Peak

 

The Call of the Mountain

I hope you have enjoyed this trip with me to some of the holiest mountains around the world. My inspiration for this article came from my own visits to a number of sacred and ancient mountains over the years. These visits fascinated me and stirred a desire to learn more about their ancient connections to the sacred divine, its meaning and the beauty of nature.

It is my hope that I have been able to inspire you to learn more about sacred mountains and, perhaps, even to visit them yourself.

 
For more interesting information:

 

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

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

11 Responses to Sacred Mountains Around the World

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

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

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

  1. S.Prathap on Nov 18, 2019 at 4:24 pm

    There are so many sacred mountains in the world. Each of the sacred mountains have their own legends or stories behind them. Mount Kailash is the holiest place in the world viewed by different faiths .
    Some respect these mountain peaks so much that it is forbidden to climb them.For others, climbing the mountain is arduous and a form of purification. So they will climb it as a pilgrimage.Thank you for this nice write up

  2. Hayden Chan on Dec 19, 2017 at 5:58 pm

    Cool! The mountains are so beautiful. I have only heard of Mount Fuji but not the rest on this blog post. One day I wish to see Mount Fuji in person because I would like to see the view along with the cherry blossoms. The pictures in this blog post are beautiful. Also, I am glad these mountains have a lot of greenery. Thank you, Pastor Antoinette for writing this post on these beautiful mountains

  3. Cc on Dec 16, 2017 at 8:10 pm

    Thank you for sharing.

    It is amazing. Didnt know there are so many mountains and each has it’s own characteristics and has become Holy place.

  4. Wai Meng Wan on Dec 16, 2017 at 7:58 pm

    So very nice to read about all these holy mountains that ancient people may have regarded as the site where gods and buddhas reside. Also holy mountainous sites where significant events happened, like the Buddha turning the wheel of dharma and teaching Prajnaparamita.

  5. yin ping on Dec 13, 2017 at 7:00 pm

    Mountains are part of the nature, our sauce of freshwater, energy, food, biodiversity and medical products. Mountains too have always been treasured as places of power and sacred from many religions throughout the world. History shown that spiritual seekers and hermits retreated into the mountains height to gain realizations and enlightenment. Just as the ancients and our ancestors believed that some mountains were the abode of their gods and goddesses.

    It is no coincidence that a mountain suddenly became a holy site. What were written in the religious scriptures or teachings passed from generations to generations must have been happened long time ago that strengthen ones spiritual faith.

  6. Pastor Han Nee on Dec 12, 2017 at 5:10 pm

    Mountains are seemingly so close to the sky and people have always thought that heaven and the abode of gods and enlghtened beings are somewhere up there in the clouds and mists of the mountain peaks.

    Some respect these mountain peaks so much that it is forbidden to climb them.For others, climbing the mountain is arduous and a form of purification. So they will climb it as a pilgrimage.

    Among the more fascinating mountains for me are Mount Kailash ,Tibet -a most inaccessible mountain for one reason or another. Mount Kailash is the holiest place in the world. Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Bön followers all view Mount Kailash as their sacred mountain.For Tibetan Buddhists, Kailash is the abode of Heruka Chakrasamvara.Circumambulatiing this montain is to purify one’s negative karma.Others even do full length prostrations along the circuit!

    Another fascinating mountain for me is Mount Olympus, home of the Greek Gods.Mount Olympus was where the gods would sally forth to order the affairs of men! Gods Like Zeus, Hera, Poseidon, Athena, Apollo, Artemis, Hermes!

    Wu Tai Shan is filled with innumerable manmade constructions of holy sites , as well as natural caves and caverns, abodes of Mnajushri and the Buddhas.They are equally fascinating. The Vulture’s Peak has meant different things for different people. For me, this was where the Heart Sutra was delivered in a triangular transmission with Lord Buddha, Avalokiteshvara and Sariputra!

    So, undeniably, mountains have been always regarded as sacred and linked to the spiritual .

  7. Anne Ong on Dec 8, 2017 at 10:06 pm

    Love these beautiful pictures of sacred mountains around the world. Some of the places that captured my attention are…1. Mount Fuji, Japan, 9. Uluru, Australia, 6. Mount Shasta, California, 7. Mount Olympus, Greece. Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor Antoinette for this interesting post ??

  8. Datuk May on Dec 8, 2017 at 5:26 pm

    Mountains being as majestic as the are, it is no surprise that man will always relate mountains to something special and spiritually inclined.

    Mountains are such wonders to view and as I read this incredible post, I remembered how on my trip to Nepal, I was on a hill and looking across to the Himalayan mountain range. I am not too sure that due to the mist I ever saw Mount Everest. But staring at the Himalayan mountain range was spectacular and awesome.

    It is such a pleasure to read about all these amazing natural phenomena like mountains and to learn the significance of their majesty and reverence mankind pay to them in aspect of being holy places for each and our faith.

  9. Samfoonheei on Nov 30, 2017 at 12:51 pm

    Wow ……fantastic there are so many sacred mountains in the world. I did not realised these as I only know a few like Mount Kalisah, Wu Tai San, Mount Fuji Mount Shasta,and our very own Mount Kinabalu to name a few.. Each of the sacred mountains have their own legends or stories behind them. Mount Kailash is the holiest place in the world viewed by different faiths .. Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Bön followers . Each of those sacred mountains are rich in natural flora and resources ,having each untouched beauty by itself. I have been to Wu Tai San on pilgrimage trip . It’s a place of natural wonders.
    Thank you Pastor Antoinette Kass for sharing these fantastic trip which I do enjoyed with Pastor to some of the holiest mountains around the world

  10. Sharon Ong on Nov 28, 2017 at 4:06 pm

    Enjoyed this piece as I felt like I “travelled” to all these beautiful mountains through all the stunning pictures.

    Closer to home, Malaysia’s tallest mountain located in Sabah, Mount Kinabalu itself is believed to be a sacred place for the local indigenous people particularly the Kadazans. According to BBC, “Locals believe it is also named after a god, Aki Nabalu, who together with another god Odu Nabalu, take care of the mountain.” [http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-33105624] There have been many tales where climbers who were disrespectful while ascending the peak had some form of accidents happening to them. It is said that their disrespectful behaviour angered the local deities and in retaliation, these local spirits created mischief as a payback.

    Whether we believe in local superstition or folklore, it is always good to be respectful of the environment we are in. This is just basic civic consciousness to not litter, deface or vandalise Mother Nature’s property.

    Thank you for this write-up, Pastor Antoinette.

    Mount-Kinabalu-620x350

  11. Fong on Nov 20, 2017 at 12:21 pm

    I find that the cloud formation over Mount Shasta are reminiscent of the could formation at Mount Olympus, both reputed to have beings living there though not commonly seen. Many cultures believe in the energy of such places and makes for an interesting experience to visit. I doubt it is a coincidence that there are spiritual stories coming out of these places.

    Like Mount Kailash is believed by many religious groups to be blessed and sacred, the other sacred mountains are not sacred to solely one group of believers. So, there must be some truth in the sacredness but it is experiential.

    Thank you, Pastor Antoinette, for a very spiritual virtual journey to high places.

Leave a Reply

Maximum file size: 15MB each
Allowed file types: jpg, jpeg, gif, png

 

Maximum file size: 50MB
Allowed file type: mp4
Maximum file size: 15MB each
Allowed file types: pdf, docx

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Blog Chat

BLOG CHAT

Dear blog friends,

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

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

Tsem Rinpoche


SCHEDULED CHAT SESSIONS / 聊天室时间表

(除了每个月的第一个星期五)
SUNDAY
8 - 9PM (GMT +8)
4 - 5AM (PST)

UPCOMING TOPICS FOR MARCH / 三月份讨论主题

Please come and join in the chat for a fun time and support. See you all there.


Blog Chat Etiquette

These are some simple guidelines to make the blog chat room a positive, enjoyable and enlightening experience for everyone. Please note that as this is a chat room, we chat! Do not flood the chat room, or post without interacting with others.

EXPAND
Be friendly

Remember that these are real people you are chatting with. They may have different opinions to you and come from different cultures. Treat them as you would face to face, and respect their opinions, and they will treat you the same.

Be Patient

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

Be Relevant

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

Be polite

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

Please be advised that anyone who contravenes these guidelines may be banned from the chatroom. Banning is at the complete discretion of the administrator of this blog. Should anyone wish to make an appeal or complaint about the behaviour of someone in the chatroom, please copy paste the relevant chat in an email to us at care@kechara.com and state the date and time of the respective conversation.

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

KECHARA FOREST RETREAT PROGRESS UPDATES

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

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

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

Noticeboard

Name: Email:
For:  
Mail will not be published
  • 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 · »

Messages from Rinpoche

Scroll down within the box to view more messages from Rinpoche. Click on the images to enlarge. Click on 'older messages' to view archived messages. Use 'prev' and 'next' links to navigate between pages

Use this URL to link to this section directly: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/#messages-from-rinpoche

Previous Live Videos

MORE VIDEOS

Shugdenpas Speaking Up Across The Globe

From Europe Shugden Association:


MORE VIDEOS

From Tibetan Public Talk:


MORE VIDEOS

CREDITS

Concept: Tsem Rinpoche
Technical: Lew Kwan Leng, Justin Ripley, Yong Swee Keong
Design: Justin Ripley, Cynthia Lee
Content: Tsem Rinpoche, Justin Ripley, Pastor Shin Tan, Sarah Yap
Admin: Pastor Loh Seng Piow, Beng Kooi

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

Tsem Rinpoche

Total views today
2,836
Total views up to date
26,041,536
Facebook Fans Youtube Views Blog Views
Animal Care Fund
  Bigfoot, Yeti, Sasquatch

The Unknown

The Known and unknown are both feared,
Known is being comfortable and stagnant,
The unknown may be growth and opportunities,
One shall never know if one fears the unknown more than the known.
Who says the unknown would be worse than the known?
But then again, the unknown is sometimes worse than the known. In the end nothing is known unless we endeavour,
So go pursue all the way with the unknown,
because all unknown with familiarity becomes the known.
~Tsem Rinpoche

Photos On The Go

Click on the images to view the bigger version. And scroll down and click on "View All Photos" to view more images.
According to legend, Shambhala is a place where wisdom and love reign, and there is no crime. Doesn\'t this sound like the kind of place all of us would love to live in? https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=204874
4 years ago
According to legend, Shambhala is a place where wisdom and love reign, and there is no crime. Doesn't this sound like the kind of place all of us would love to live in? https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=204874
108 candles and sang (incense) offered at our Wish-Fulfilling Grotto, invoking Dorje Shugden\'s blessings for friends, sponsors and supporters, wonderful!
4 years ago
108 candles and sang (incense) offered at our Wish-Fulfilling Grotto, invoking Dorje Shugden's blessings for friends, sponsors and supporters, wonderful!
Dharmapalas are not exclusive to Tibetan culture and their practice is widespread throughout the Buddhist world - https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=193645
4 years ago
Dharmapalas are not exclusive to Tibetan culture and their practice is widespread throughout the Buddhist world - https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=193645
One of our adorable Kechara Forest Retreat\'s doggies, Tara, happy and safe, and enjoying herself in front of Wisdom Hall which has been decorated for Chinese New Year
4 years ago
One of our adorable Kechara Forest Retreat's doggies, Tara, happy and safe, and enjoying herself in front of Wisdom Hall which has been decorated for Chinese New Year
Fragrant organic Thai basil harvested from our very own Kechara Forest Retreat farm!
4 years ago
Fragrant organic Thai basil harvested from our very own Kechara Forest Retreat farm!
On behalf of our Puja House team, Pastor Tat Ming receives food and drinks from Rinpoche. Rinpoche wanted to make sure the hardworking Puja House team are always taken care of.
4 years ago
On behalf of our Puja House team, Pastor Tat Ming receives food and drinks from Rinpoche. Rinpoche wanted to make sure the hardworking Puja House team are always taken care of.
By the time I heard about Luang Phor Thong, he was already very old, in his late 80s. When I heard about him, I immediately wanted to go and pay my respects to him. - http://bit.ly/LuangPhorThong
4 years ago
By the time I heard about Luang Phor Thong, he was already very old, in his late 80s. When I heard about him, I immediately wanted to go and pay my respects to him. - http://bit.ly/LuangPhorThong
It\'s very nice to see volunteers helping maintain holy sites in Kechara Forest Retreat, it\'s very good for them. Cleaning Buddha statues is a very powerful and effective way of purifying body karma.
4 years ago
It's very nice to see volunteers helping maintain holy sites in Kechara Forest Retreat, it's very good for them. Cleaning Buddha statues is a very powerful and effective way of purifying body karma.
Kechara Forest Retreat is preparing for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations. This is our holy Vajra Yogini stupa which is now surrounded by beautiful lanterns organised by our students.
4 years ago
Kechara Forest Retreat is preparing for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations. This is our holy Vajra Yogini stupa which is now surrounded by beautiful lanterns organised by our students.
One of the most recent harvests from our Kechara Forest Retreat land. It was grown free of chemicals and pesticides, wonderful!
4 years ago
One of the most recent harvests from our Kechara Forest Retreat land. It was grown free of chemicals and pesticides, wonderful!
Third picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
5 years ago
Third picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
Second picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
5 years ago
Second picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
First picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
5 years ago
First picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
The first title published by Kechara Comics is Karuna Finds A Way. It tells the tale of high-school sweethearts Karuna and Adam who had what some would call the dream life. Everything was going great for them until one day when reality came knocking on their door. Caught in a surprise swindle, this loving family who never harmed anyone found themselves out of luck and down on their fortune. Determined to save her family, Karuna goes all out to find a solution. See what she does- https://bit.ly/2LSKuWo
5 years ago
The first title published by Kechara Comics is Karuna Finds A Way. It tells the tale of high-school sweethearts Karuna and Adam who had what some would call the dream life. Everything was going great for them until one day when reality came knocking on their door. Caught in a surprise swindle, this loving family who never harmed anyone found themselves out of luck and down on their fortune. Determined to save her family, Karuna goes all out to find a solution. See what she does- https://bit.ly/2LSKuWo
Very powerful story! Tibetan Resistance group Chushi Gangdruk reveals how Dalai Lama escaped in 1959- https://bit.ly/2S9VMGX
5 years ago
Very powerful story! Tibetan Resistance group Chushi Gangdruk reveals how Dalai Lama escaped in 1959- https://bit.ly/2S9VMGX
At Kechara Forest Retreat land we have nice fresh spinach growing free of chemicals and pesticides. Yes!
5 years ago
At Kechara Forest Retreat land we have nice fresh spinach growing free of chemicals and pesticides. Yes!
See beautiful pictures of Manjushri Guest House here- https://bit.ly/2WGo0ti
5 years ago
See beautiful pictures of Manjushri Guest House here- https://bit.ly/2WGo0ti
Beginner’s Introduction to Dorje Shugden~Very good overview https://bit.ly/2QQNfYv
5 years ago
Beginner’s Introduction to Dorje Shugden~Very good overview https://bit.ly/2QQNfYv
Fresh eggplants grown on Kechara Forest Retreat\'s land here in Malaysia
5 years ago
Fresh eggplants grown on Kechara Forest Retreat's land here in Malaysia
Most Venerable Uppalavanna – The Chief Female Disciple of Buddha Shakyamuni - She exhibited many supernatural abilities gained from meditation and proved to the world females and males are equal in spirituality- https://bit.ly/31d9Rat
5 years ago
Most Venerable Uppalavanna – The Chief Female Disciple of Buddha Shakyamuni - She exhibited many supernatural abilities gained from meditation and proved to the world females and males are equal in spirituality- https://bit.ly/31d9Rat
Thailand’s ‘Renegade’ Yet Powerful Buddhist Nuns~ https://bit.ly/2Z1C02m
5 years ago
Thailand’s ‘Renegade’ Yet Powerful Buddhist Nuns~ https://bit.ly/2Z1C02m
Mahapajapati Gotami – the first Buddhist nun ordained by Lord Buddha- https://bit.ly/2IjD8ru
5 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami – the first Buddhist nun ordained by Lord Buddha- https://bit.ly/2IjD8ru
The Largest Buddha Shakyamuni in Russia | 俄罗斯最大的释迦牟尼佛画像- https://bit.ly/2Wpclni
5 years ago
The Largest Buddha Shakyamuni in Russia | 俄罗斯最大的释迦牟尼佛画像- https://bit.ly/2Wpclni
Sacred Vajra Yogini
5 years ago
Sacred Vajra Yogini
Dorje Shugden works & archives - a labour of commitment - https://bit.ly/30Tp2p8
5 years ago
Dorje Shugden works & archives - a labour of commitment - https://bit.ly/30Tp2p8
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha.
5 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha.
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha. She was his step-mother and aunt. Buddha\'s mother had passed away at his birth so he was raised by Gotami.
5 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha. She was his step-mother and aunt. Buddha's mother had passed away at his birth so he was raised by Gotami.
Another nun disciple of Lord Buddha\'s. She had achieved great spiritual abilities and high attainments. She would be a proper object of refuge. This image of the eminent bhikkhuni (nun) disciple of the Buddha, Uppalavanna Theri.
5 years ago
Another nun disciple of Lord Buddha's. She had achieved great spiritual abilities and high attainments. She would be a proper object of refuge. This image of the eminent bhikkhuni (nun) disciple of the Buddha, Uppalavanna Theri.
Wandering Ascetic Painting by Nirdesha Munasinghe
5 years ago
Wandering Ascetic Painting by Nirdesha Munasinghe
High Sri Lankan monks visit Kechara to bless our land, temple, Buddha and Dorje Shugden images. They were very kind-see pictures- https://bit.ly/2HQie2M
5 years ago
High Sri Lankan monks visit Kechara to bless our land, temple, Buddha and Dorje Shugden images. They were very kind-see pictures- https://bit.ly/2HQie2M
This is pretty amazing!

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

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

Videos On The Go

Please click on the images to watch video
  • Pig puts his toys away
    4 years ago
    Pig puts his toys away
    Animals are so intelligent. They can feel happiness, joy, pain, sorrow, just like humans. Always show kindness to them. Always show kindness to everyone.
  • Always be kind to animals-They deserve to live just like us.
    5 years ago
    Always be kind to animals-They deserve to live just like us.
    Whales and dolphins playing with each other in the Pacific sea. Nature is truly incredible!
  • Bodha stupa July 2019-
    5 years ago
    Bodha stupa July 2019-
    Rainy period
  • Cute Tara girl having a snack. She is one of Kechara Forest Retreat’s resident doggies.
    5 years ago
    Cute Tara girl having a snack. She is one of Kechara Forest Retreat’s resident doggies.
  • Your Next Meal!
    5 years ago
    Your Next Meal!
    Yummy? Tasty? Behind the scenes of the meat on your plates. Meat is a killing industry.
  • This is Daw
    5 years ago
    This is Daw
    This is what they do to get meat on tables, and to produce belts and jackets. Think twice before your next purchase.
  • Don’t Take My Mummy Away!
    5 years ago
    Don’t Take My Mummy Away!
    Look at the poor baby chasing after the mother. Why do we do that to them? It's time to seriously think about our choices in life and how they affect others. Be kind. Don't break up families.
  • They do this every day!
    5 years ago
    They do this every day!
    This is how they are being treated every day of their lives. Please do something to stop the brutality. Listen to their cries for help!
  • What happened at Fair Oaks Farm?
    5 years ago
    What happened at Fair Oaks Farm?
    The largest undercover dairy investigation of all time. See what they found out at Fair Oaks Farm.
  • She’s going to spend her whole life here without being able to move correctly. Like a machine. They are the slaves of the people and are viewed as a product. It’s immoral. Billions of terrestrial animals die annually. Billions. You can’t even imagine it. And all that because people don’t want to give up meat, even though there are so many alternatives. ~ Gabriel Azimov
    5 years ago
    She’s going to spend her whole life here without being able to move correctly. Like a machine. They are the slaves of the people and are viewed as a product. It’s immoral. Billions of terrestrial animals die annually. Billions. You can’t even imagine it. And all that because people don’t want to give up meat, even though there are so many alternatives. ~ Gabriel Azimov
  • Our Malaysian Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir speaks so well, logically and regarding our country’s collaboration with China for growth. It is refreshing to listen to Dr. Mahathir’s thoughts. He said our country can look to China for many more things such as technology and so on. Tsem Rinpoche
    5 years ago
    Our Malaysian Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir speaks so well, logically and regarding our country’s collaboration with China for growth. It is refreshing to listen to Dr. Mahathir’s thoughts. He said our country can look to China for many more things such as technology and so on. Tsem Rinpoche
  • This is the first time His Holiness Dalai Lama mentions he had some very serious illness. Very worrying. This video is captured April 2019.
    5 years ago
    This is the first time His Holiness Dalai Lama mentions he had some very serious illness. Very worrying. This video is captured April 2019.
  • Beautiful Monastery in Hong Kong
    5 years ago
    Beautiful Monastery in Hong Kong
  • This dog thanks his hero in such a touching way. Tsem Rinpoche
    5 years ago
    This dog thanks his hero in such a touching way. Tsem Rinpoche
  • Join Tsem Rinpoche in prayer for H.H. Dalai Lama’s long life~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYy7JcveikU&feature=youtu.be
    5 years ago
    Join Tsem Rinpoche in prayer for H.H. Dalai Lama’s long life~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYy7JcveikU&feature=youtu.be
  • These people going on pilgrimage to a holy mountain and prostrating out of devotion and for pilgrimage in Tibet. Such determination for spiritual practice. Tsem Rinpoche
    5 years ago
    These people going on pilgrimage to a holy mountain and prostrating out of devotion and for pilgrimage in Tibet. Such determination for spiritual practice. Tsem Rinpoche
  • Beautiful new casing in Kechara for Vajra Yogini. Tsem Rinpoche
    5 years ago
    Beautiful new casing in Kechara for Vajra Yogini. Tsem Rinpoche
  • Get ready to laugh real hard. This is Kechara’s version of “Whatever Happened to Baby Jane!” We have some real talents in this video clip.
    5 years ago
    Get ready to laugh real hard. This is Kechara’s version of “Whatever Happened to Baby Jane!” We have some real talents in this video clip.
  • Recitation of Dorje Dermo‘s mantra or the Dharani of Glorious Vajra Claws. This powerful mantra is meant to destroy all obstacles that come in our way. Beneficial to play this mantra in our environments.
    5 years ago
    Recitation of Dorje Dermo‘s mantra or the Dharani of Glorious Vajra Claws. This powerful mantra is meant to destroy all obstacles that come in our way. Beneficial to play this mantra in our environments.
  • Beautiful
    5 years ago
    Beautiful
    Beautiful sacred Severed Head Vajra Yogini from Tsem Rinpoche's personal shrine.
  • My little monster cute babies Dharma and Oser. Take a look and get a cute attack for the day! Tsem Rinpoche
    5 years ago
    My little monster cute babies Dharma and Oser. Take a look and get a cute attack for the day! Tsem Rinpoche
  • Plse watch this short video and see how all sentient beings are capable of tenderness and love. We should never hurt animals nor should we eat them. Tsem Rinpoche
    5 years ago
    Plse watch this short video and see how all sentient beings are capable of tenderness and love. We should never hurt animals nor should we eat them. Tsem Rinpoche
  • Cruelty of some people have no limits and it’s heartbreaking. Being kind cost nothing. Tsem Rinpoche
    5 years ago
    Cruelty of some people have no limits and it’s heartbreaking. Being kind cost nothing. Tsem Rinpoche
  • SUPER ADORABLE and must see
    5 years ago
    SUPER ADORABLE and must see
    Tsem Rinpoche's dog Oser girl enjoying her snack in her play pen.
  • Cute!
    5 years ago
    Cute!
    Oser girl loves the balcony so much. - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RTcoWpKJm2c
  • Uncle Wong
    5 years ago
    Uncle Wong
    We were told by Uncle Wong he is very faithful toward Dorje Shugden. Dorje Shugden has extended help to him on several occasions and now Uncle Wong comes daily to make incense offerings to Dorje Shugden. He is grateful towards the help he was given.
  • Tsem Rinpoche’s Schnauzer Dharma boy fights Robot sphere from Arkonide!
    5 years ago
    Tsem Rinpoche’s Schnauzer Dharma boy fights Robot sphere from Arkonide!
  • Cute baby owl found and rescued
    5 years ago
    Cute baby owl found and rescued
    We rescued a lost baby owl in Kechara Forest Retreat.
  • Nice cups from Kechara!!
    5 years ago
    Nice cups from Kechara!!
    Dorje Shugden people's lives matter!
  • Enjoy a peaceful morning at Kechara Forest Retreat
    5 years ago
    Enjoy a peaceful morning at Kechara Forest Retreat
    Chirping birds and other forest animals create a joyful melody at the Vajrayogini stupa in Kechara Forest Retreat (Bentong, Malaysia).
  • This topic is so hot in many circles right now.
    6 years ago
    This topic is so hot in many circles right now.
    This video is thought-provoking and very interesting. Watch! Thanks so much to our friends at LIVEKINDLY.
  • Chiropractic CHANGES LIFE for teenager with acute PAIN & DEAD LEG.
    6 years ago
    Chiropractic CHANGES LIFE for teenager with acute PAIN & DEAD LEG.
  • BEAUTIFUL PLACE IN NEW YORK STATE-AMAZING.
    6 years ago
    BEAUTIFUL PLACE IN NEW YORK STATE-AMAZING.
  • Leonardo DiCaprio takes on the meat Industry with real action.
    6 years ago
    Leonardo DiCaprio takes on the meat Industry with real action.
  • Do psychic mediums have messages from beyond?
    6 years ago
    Do psychic mediums have messages from beyond?
  • Lovely gift for my 52nd Birthday. Tsem Rinpoche
    6 years ago
    Lovely gift for my 52nd Birthday. Tsem Rinpoche
  • This 59-year-old chimpanzee was refusing food and ready to die until...
    6 years ago
    This 59-year-old chimpanzee was refusing food and ready to die until...
    she received “one last visit from an old friend” 💔💔
  • Bigfoot sighted again and made it to the news.
    6 years ago
    Bigfoot sighted again and made it to the news.
  • Casper is such a cute and adorable. I like him.
    6 years ago
    Casper is such a cute and adorable. I like him.
  • Dorje Shugden Monastery Amarbayasgalant  Mongolia's Ancient Hidden Gem
    6 years ago
    Dorje Shugden Monastery Amarbayasgalant Mongolia's Ancient Hidden Gem
  • Don't you love Hamburgers? See how 'delicious' it is here!
    6 years ago
    Don't you love Hamburgers? See how 'delicious' it is here!
  • Such a beautiful and powerful message from a person who knows the meaning of life. Tsem Rinpoche
    6 years ago
    Such a beautiful and powerful message from a person who knows the meaning of life. Tsem Rinpoche
  • What the meat industry figured out is that you don't need healthy animals to make a profit.
    6 years ago
    What the meat industry figured out is that you don't need healthy animals to make a profit.
    Sick animals are more profitable... farms calculate how close to death they can keep animals without killing them. That's the business model. How quickly they can be made to grow, how tightly they can be packed, how much or how little can they eat, how sick they can get without dying... We live in a world in which it's conventional to treat an animal like a block of wood. ~ Jonathan Safran Foer
  • This video went viral and it's a must watch!!
    6 years ago
    This video went viral and it's a must watch!!
  • SEE HOW THIS ANIMAL SERIAL KILLER HAS NO ISSUE BLUDGEONING THIS DEFENSELESS BEING.
    6 years ago
    SEE HOW THIS ANIMAL SERIAL KILLER HAS NO ISSUE BLUDGEONING THIS DEFENSELESS BEING.
    This happens daily in slaughterhouse so you can get your pork and Bak ku teh. Stop eating meat.

ASK A PASTOR


Ask the Pastors

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

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

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

View All Questions

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
The Promise
  These books will change your life
  Support Blog Team
Lamps For Life
  Robe Offerings
  Vajrayogini Stupa Fund
  Dana Offerings
  Soup Kitchen Project
 
Zong Rinpoche

Archives

YOUR FEEDBACK

Live Visitors Counter
Page Views By Country
United States 6,560,748
Malaysia 4,932,712
India 2,510,845
Singapore 936,141
United Kingdom 915,882
Nepal 913,387
Bhutan 864,803
Canada 797,322
Australia 619,377
Philippines 555,278
Indonesia 451,828
Germany 370,298
France 312,722
Brazil 251,023
Vietnam 226,545
Thailand 217,772
Taiwan 206,933
Italy 175,641
Spain 160,953
Netherlands 156,804
Mongolia 147,273
Portugal 138,190
South Africa 138,017
Türkiye 132,302
Sri Lanka 128,762
United Arab Emirates 121,726
Japan 119,012
Russia 114,691
Hong Kong 114,218
China 107,718
Romania 104,740
Mexico 97,736
New Zealand 93,880
Switzerland 88,746
Myanmar (Burma) 88,535
Pakistan 82,184
Sweden 78,121
South Korea 75,124
Cambodia 70,770
Total Pageviews: 26,041,536

Login

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