Ven. Longlian: Modern China’s Most Outstanding Bhiksuni

By | May 21, 2021 | Views: 613

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(By Tsem Rinpoche and Pastor Shin)

Venerable Longlian was awarded the title of “The Foremost Bhiksuni of Contemporary China”, a rare public recognition made out of great respect for a nun who lived a life of remarkable achievements. Her biography, “Today’s Preeminent Nun: The Story of Dharma Master Longlian” (当代第一比丘尼: 隆莲法师传) is a bestseller in China.

One of the best-known students of Master Nenghai, a religious leader of modern China, she was the former chairwoman of the Buddhist Association of China. Relics were found after her cremation, a testament of her spiritual achievements. In 2009, a commemoration ceremony organised to celebrate the 100th anniversary of her birth drew a large crowd, and her memorial never falls short of visitors and pilgrims on auspicious days of the Buddhist calendar.

 

Early Life

Ven. Longlian’s family background was the foundation of her spiritual life and it also paved the way for her academic excellence. Both her paternal and maternal grandfathers were accomplished educators. Her father, You Fuguo (游辅国) was the superintendent in the education department of Sichuan province before being appointed a county magistrate.

Born on 2nd May 1909 in Leshan city, Sichuan province, Ven. Longlian, whose name before ordination had been You Yongkang (游永康), was tutored at home by her maternal grandfather and aunt. A bright and talented child, she was fluent in Chinese poetry, and could read and write well by the age of four. She started to recite scriptures and Buddha’s name since young, and frequented temples with her mother and grandmother.

A chance meeting with the Buddhist monk Da Yong (大勇) when she was 11 led her to proclaim that one day, she too would don the same yellow robes. You Yongkang inherited her grandfather’s library when she was 13. There, she found and read books on Pure Land Buddhism. It left a deep and lasting impression on the young girl and she became a firm believer. From that moment on, she started to practise vegetarianism.

Books on Pure Land Buddhism by Master Ying Guang (印光) that Ven. Longlian first encountered, which left a deep impact on her

Books on Pure Land Buddhism by Master Yinguang which left a deep impact on Ven. Longlian

Ven. Longlian was not a normal student. While enrolled at Jiading Superior Elementary School, she studied high school mathematics on her own and learnt English through correspondence courses. Later, she continued her studies at home after her grandfather passed away.

In 1927, she became a teacher at Leshan Girls School, while simultaneously preparing to enter university. In 1931, her family relocated to Chengdu and she became a teacher at Chengdu Girls’ Middle School. In 1932, her father was appointed a county magistrate in Gulin and she moved there with him to act as his personal secretary.

Master Changyuan whom Ven. Longlian took the Bodhisattva vows from

Master Changyuan, who gave Ven. Longlian the Bodhisattva vows

She returned to Chengdu in 1934 and took the qualifying examinations for the government civil service. She was the first woman ever to pass the civil service examinations and was employed as a teacher of language and algebra at the Chengdu Middle School. In 1936, she won first place in the examinations for the county magistrate position. However, she did not become the first Chinese female magistrate due to her refusal to go through military training and live in official housing. Instead, she became a translator-editor at the Editing and Translating Secretariat of Sichuan province.

Ven. Longlian studied voraciously – everything from poetry to Chinese medicine – with famous teachers, although her main focus was Buddhist thought and philosophy. She took the Bodhisattva vows from Changyuan (昌圆), a master of the Pure Land tradition in a private ceremony in 1938 as she missed the collective ritual at Aidaotang (爱道堂) due to her father’s opposition. She was given the religious name Longjing (隆净).

 

Receiving Teachings from the Masters

Ven. Longlian frequented Shaocheng Foxueshe (少城佛学社), the Buddhist Studies Society founded in 1916 by Gong Xueguang (龚学光), who later became known as Ven. Nenghai (能海) after he was ordained. Ven. Longlian attended many lectures here and took many notes. Her notes were later published as books, such as Shedashenglun shu lüeshu (摄大乘论疏略述), “Outline of the Commentary on the Compendium of the Great Vehicle”.

She was always there, taking notes on my teachings. From the very beginning, I was able to see what a talented woman she was. […] When I went back to Chengdu, in September of the same year, she gave me the first part of her notes to correct and evaluate. […]

Since I did not find any mistakes, I encouraged her to continue her work. In a couple of months, she sent me the complete work. […] I think that the gifts and intellectual capacities of You Yongkang are rather unique.

– Wang Enyang (王恩洋), Buddhist scholar
[From the preface to Ven. Longlian’s Shedashenglun shu lüeshu (摄大乘论疏略述)]

Having met many Tibetan lamas who were on their way to China, and Chinese monks who were leaving for or returning from Tibet, Ven. Longlian developed a huge interest in Tibetan Buddhism. She learnt the Tibetan language with Ven. Fazun (法尊), and also attended his teachings on Trimsika or Weishi sanshi lun (唯识三十论).

The 7th Changkya Khutukhtu Lobsang Pelden Tenpe Dronme, the highest authority of Tibetan Buddhism in Inner Mongolia who gave Ven. Longlian the Anuttarayoga Tantra initiations of three main Gelukpa deities

The 7th Changkya Khutukhtu Lobsang Pelden Tenpe Dronme, the highest authority of Tibetan Buddhism in Inner Mongolia who gave Ven. Longlian the Anuttarayoga Tantra initiations of the three main Gelugpa deities

She received teachings from Sherap Gyatso (1884-1968) and studied with two Tibetan scholars, Geshe Yeshe and Dongben (东本). She also received initiations of the three main Gelugpa tantric deities – Vajrabhairava, Guhyasamaja and Chakrasamvara – from Changkya Khutukhtu, one of the highest authorities in the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism.

Of all her teachers, the one who had the most impact on Ven. Longlian was Ven. Nenghai (能海). He returned to Sichuan and moved to Jincisi (近慈寺) after a few years of retreat in Wutaishan in 1937. Ven. Longlian became his close disciple and studied extensively with him. Ven. Nenghai bestowed upon her the highest yoga tantra teachings of Vajrabhairava, and she was the only woman to have received this knowledge from the great master.

Ven. Longlian remained in Chengdu when her family moved back to Leshan during the war with Japan, continuing her studies in the Tibetan language and in Buddhism. She later moved to Aidaotang and when Ven. Nenghai returned to Chengdu from his last Lhasa pilgrimage, Ven. Longlian and a group of nuns and laywomen went to Jincisi to listen to his teachings daily. As the two-hour travel time and long hours of lectures began to take a toll on her, she decided it was time for her to fully commit herself and become ordained.

Ven. Nenghai (能海), who had the most impact on Ven. Longlian's learning and life

Ven. Nenghai had the most impact on Ven. Longlian’s learning and life

Ven. Longlian was ordained at Jinlongsi, and later received the complete bhiksuni ordination in Wenshuyuan (文殊院), a famous monastery in Chengdu. As there was already another bhiksuni named Longjing, You Yongkang’s name was changed to Ven. Longlian. She was also accepted as Ven. Nenghai’s disciple in the same year, and given the Dharma name Renfa (仁法).

Wenshuyuan, a famous temple in Chengdu where Ven. Longlian was ordained

Wenshuyuan, a famous temple in Chengdu where Ven. Longlian was ordained

 

Studies and Writings

Ven. Longlian was hired to teach Buddhist literature at Lianzong Women’s Institute of Studies, and in 1942, she was promoted to the position of the Dean of Studies. She still attended Ven. Nenghai’s teachings when her schedule permitted. She also met You Yunshan (游韵珊), who later became an influential Buddhist nun named Xiaoyun or Hiuwan (晓云). They felt a close affinity to each other as they shared the same surname, were both well-educated, and also revered the same master.

Ven. Fazun gave teachings on Tsongkhapa’s commentary on the Madhyamakavatara (入中论) in 1943. One of Ven. Longlian’s best known works, entitled “Explanation of the Madhyamakavatara”, Ru zhonglun jiangji (入中论讲记), was produced based on these teachings. This work is now one of the textbooks for many Buddhist institutions in China, being the only complete Chinese translation of the original text.

In 1945, Ven. Longlian and Dingjing (定静), one of her close friends who lived with her for most of her monastic life, moved to a shelter near Jincisi before they were instructed to live in Tiexiangsi (铁像寺), which later became a Sino-Tibetan nunnery.

Dingjing (定静) on the right, one of Ven. Longlian's lifelong friends and her close companion

Dingjing (定静) on the right, one of Ven. Longlian’s lifelong friends and her close companion

She then went on summer retreats in Taipingsi (太平寺) and Cisheng’an (慈圣庵), studying and practising with Ven. Nenghai between 1947 and 1949. These were said to be the most joyful periods of her life.

Ven. Nenghai invited the vinaya master, Master Guanyi (贯一) from Baoguangsi (宝光寺) to impart the six rules of siksamana to the resident novices in Tiexiangsi. This was to be a step leading to Ven. Longlian’s full ordination.

Master Guanyi explained the rules of “dual ordination”, or ordination conferred by the two sangha orders, where nuns should receive the precepts of complete ordination from ten bhiksunis acting as nun-masters, and then from ten ordained monks, representing the bhiksu community.

This set of procedures was originally brought from Sri Lanka to China between 433 and 434 CE, but it was no longer practised there, and nuns were only conferred the vows by ten bhiksus. Ven. Longlian felt a deep desire to revive this tradition and her efforts finally made this a reality in 1982.

Ven. Longlian had a habit of organising her notes and then printing them out to help other practitioners, and these notes were often published as independent works. Most of her works were based on Ven. Nenghai’s teachings from the 1940s to the 1950s, but included teachings by other teachers.

1952 was an important year for Ven. Longlian. On the spiritual side, she received further instruction from Ven. Nenghai on the Vajrabhairava practices. He also wished for her to develop her translation ability and skills, and had her translate several Buddhist documents.

These included the Lü dumu si mantu yigui, “Green Tara Four-Mandala Sadhana” (绿度母四曼荼仪轨), which was recently published for the first time in the collection of Fozang jiyao (佛藏辑要) vol. 19 by the Bashu publishing house. Another work was the Pilu yigui shouyin (毗卢仪轨手印), “Mudra of the Vairocana Sadhana”, concerning Vairocana tantric practices. One of the most significant translations was the Ru pusa xing lun guangjie (入菩萨行论广解), “Exposition of the Bodhicaryavatara”, which again is the only complete translation of the work in Chinese.

At the request of Zhang Yisun (张怡荪), the director of the Humanities Department at Sichuan University, Ven. Longlian worked as an assistant Tibetan translator on the compilation of the Zang-Han dacidian (藏汉大辞典), “Great Tibetan-Chinese Dictionary”.

The following year, she was appointed a member of the Research Institute of Culture and History of Sichuan and tasked to write explanations of Du Fu’s poems in a colloquial style that would appeal to the general public.

In 1955, she was appointed to the National Council of the Buddhist Association of China and in 1956, she was the only woman on the editorial board of the volume on Chinese Buddhism of the Encyclopaedia of World Buddhism. It was recorded that Zhou Enlai (周恩来), the first Premier of the People’s Republic of China was very impressed with her work.

She also worked on compiling and editing the religious chapters of the Sichuan Provincial Gazetteer in 1960 and 1961. She was appointed a member of the Permanent Council, and the Vice Secretary-General for the Buddhist Association of China in 1962. A few months later, she was elected to the two same positions of the Sichuan Buddhist Association, and this led to her involvement in the People’s Political Consultative Conference of Sichuan.

Ven. Longlian moved to Beijing due to these appointments, and registered herself at Tongjiaosi (通教寺). She developed a close relationship with the abbess, Tongyuan (通愿), who was influential and well-known in the north of China.

The move to Beijing gave her the opportunity to study and practise with Ven. Nenghai at Wutaishan for a few months in 1957 – 1959. Ven. Longlian wrote on Ven. Nenghai’s teachings on the Guru Puja (Lama Chöpa in Tibetan) and Abhisamayalamkara, which later were published as the “Explanation of the Contemplation Techniques in the Offering to the Master”, Shangshi wushang gongyang guanxing fa jiangji (上师无上供养观行法讲记), and the more theoretical work “Notes on the Ornament for the Clear Realisation”, Xianguan zhuanyan lun biji (现观庄严论笔记). She also learnt how to mould Buddhist statues in the Tibetan tradition with Ven. Nenghai.

During the Cultural Revolution, she was forced to participate in criticism meetings and political classes for religious leaders in Sichuan, and was then sent to a labour camp. With the help of a friend, she managed to get transferred to a sewing workshop in Wenshuyuan. She suffered a nervous breakdown not long after and was relieved from work.

She moved to Aidaotang with her mother and her good friend, Dingjing, and got by with her government salary and support from other nuns and the public. Both Ven. Longlian and Dingjing were forced to wear lay clothes and grow out their hair but they secretly carried on with their religious practices.

Aidaotang, of which Ven. Longlian later became the abbess

Aidaotang (爱道堂), of which Ven. Longlian later became the abbess

When the government’s attitude towards religion softened in the late 1970s, Ven. Longlian resumed wearing monastic robes and shaved her head again. At a meeting of the Buddhist Association of China, she proposed to restore the damage to Tiexiangsi and to establish a Buddhist college for nuns there. The Sichuan Bhikshuni Institute for Buddhist Studies, Sichuan nizhong foxueyuan (四川尼众佛学院) was officially founded in 1983, with Ven. Longlian as its director.

 

Dual Ordination

In 1981, Ven. Longlian met the Minister of Culture of Sri Lanka in Beijing and was tasked with re-establishing the procedure for full ordination of Sinhalese nuns. She scheduled the ceremony for 1982 and prepared a translation of the Dual Ordination ritual procedures in English for the occasion.

Although no Sinhalese nun was able to attend the ceremonies held in Tiexiangsi and Wenshuyuan in January 1982, this was the first nun ordination in China for 25 years. A group of ten bhiksunis acted as ordination masters, assisted by a group of monk ordination masters. The dual ordination rule was then established for almost every bhiksuni ordination in China.

Dual ordination in Chengdu in the year 1982

Dual ordination in Chengdu in 1982

Ven. Longlian was elected as a member of the editorial board for Fayin, the official journal of the Buddhist Association of China. She also became the Chairwoman of the Buddhist Association of Sichuan.

In 1982 and 1988, she was a member of the People’s Political Consultative Conference of Sichuan, and in 1985 and 1988, a member of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference.

In 1987, she was elected vice-chairwoman of the Buddhist Association of China and honorary chairwoman of the Buddhist Association of Sichuan. She received many awards, including a prize by the Japanese Buddhist Association for Preaching the Dharma in 1980 and 1985.

Ven. Longlian also met with foreign delegations, including those from Bhutan, Myanmar, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and the United States.

As she aged, Ven. Longlian was affected by health issues and relinquished many of her official appointments to focus on her duties at the Institute of Studies and on the ordination of nuns.

In her 90s, she was still conducting courses at the Institute, teaching the scriptures and attending religious ceremonies during the weekends at Aidaotang, while staying at Tiexiangsi. Today, Aidaotang is known as a prominent location for Pure Land rituals and ceremonies in the Chengdu area, while Tiexiangsi remains “the only Tibetan nunnery in Han territory”.

Ven. Longlian’s dedication to the education of nuns is admirable, and she was still teaching in her 90s

 

Passing

After miraculously surviving and recovering from a stroke in 1996, Ven. Longlian moved to Aidaotang from Tiexiangsi for easier access to medical care. She made a pilgrimage to Emeishan in 1998, and participated in the bhiksuni ordination ceremonies at Baoguangsi and Aidaotang in 1999 and 2003. She also performed the role of nun-master at the tonsure ceremony in 2004 and on her 96th birthday in 2005, gave siksamana precepts.

Ven. Longlian passed away peacefully on 11th November 2006 in Aidaotang. Her relics were divided into four parts. One each was sent to Mount Emei, to Tiexiangsi and to Aidaotang. The last relic was taken to Wutaishan where a stupa was later built.

Apart from her profound Buddhist studies and practice, gained from having studied with many acclaimed Buddhist masters, Ven. Longlian also had a strong background in classical culture. This was reflected in her poetry as she composed more than 1000 poems, full of scholarly citations and references to Chinese classical literature.

Her scholarship and erudition was so well recognised that she was named “The Foremost Bhiksuni of Contemporary China” (中国当代第一比丘尼) by Comrade Zhao Puchu, a religious and public leader who promoted cultural progress and religious tolerance in China. He was known for his role as the President of the Buddhist Association of China and also one of the most renowned Chinese calligraphers.

Below are some pictures from Ven. Longlian’s funeral and her relics.

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The stupa where one part of Ven. Longlian's relics was kept, in Wutaishan

The stupa in Wutaishan where one part of Ven. Longlian’s relics are kept

 

Legacy

Ven. Longlian inspired countless adherents, including Buddhist scholars, academics, ordained monastics, and members of the public. Below are some of the tributes to her outstanding life and legacy.

 

1. From Comrade Zhao Puchu, a religious and public leader in China

In Chinese, "The foremost Bhiksuni of Contemporary China", calligraphy by Comrade Zhao Puchu who bestowed Ven. Longlian with the title

“The Foremost Bhiksuni of Contemporary China” – Chinese calligraphy by Comrade Zhao Puchu who bestowed Ven. Longlian with the title

 

2. From Chen Mowu, a famous Chinese artist and scholar

Compassion for All Beings, Paving the Path on Earth – My Thoughts on Ven. Longlian

Author: Chen Mowu

Ven. Longlian, the first Bhiksuni of modern times, is a sacred bodhisattva in the hearts of her devotees. A legendary talented woman in the eyes of common folk, to me, she is a bold character who truly loves the world and paves the path for others.

Contemplating what I read in The Platform Sutra, “Prajna is often present, not different from the intrinsic nature”, “Within the intrinsic nature, all Dharma is seen, all Dharma is within the intrinsic nature,” and “The Buddha arises from intrinsic nature”, Ven. Longlian has gone through the course of nearly a century. She demonstrated her character that follows the course of nature, as well as her indomitable spirit to go through hardship.

 

PART 1

Ven. Longlian, a native of Leshan, Sichuan, was born on March 13, 1909 of the lunar calendar. In her early years, her grandfather gave her the name Dechun. Later on, her ailing aunt gave her the name Yongkang. To express her view of gender equality between men and women, wishing to show her great dissatisfaction with the name given by her father that reflects the feudal idea of men’s superiority over women, she named herself Ming Yan.

Ven. Longlian was a gifted child and could recognise the words “Yan” and “Can” before she could speak. In the early years, when “Gong You Tang” had a pair of calligraphy for the doors, she was able to identify the two words “Yan”, “Can”.

From the age of 3, she began to learn the quatrains of Tang, and she was able to recite them fluently. When she was a little older, the elders taught her in rotation without a permanent teacher, and she wore a boy’s wear since young. When she was 13, she attended Leshan Girls’ Primary School, where her grandfather was the principal of the school at that time, she also changed from wearing boys’ clothing to wearing clothes for girls.

In July the same year, when her grandfather passed away, she ended her school life and, with the help of her father, she embarked on a path of self-study. Ven. Longlian has been a vegetarian since the age of 3, following her grandmother’s diet.

It is said that a man surnamed Xiong (the teacher of Ven. Longlian’s father), who was never married, took care of and educated his younger brother till adulthood, then left his job to live in “Bear Cave” in the countryside, with many of the local relatives and friends viewing him differently.

As he had many visitors and couldn’t bear the disturbances, he lived in seclusion in Buddhist monasteries. He was afraid that the mountains were not secluded enough, and with no way to escape his growing reputation, he went wandering to Leshan, living in Wuyou Temple and became a regular visitor to the You’s residence.

When Ven. Longlian’s father went on a business trip to Shanghai, Mr. Xiong entrusted him to meet Master Yinguang to ask about a location for his practice. As Master Yinguang was away, Ven. Longlian’s father wrote a letter to express his enquiry about this.

Later on, in Master Yinguang’s reply of thousands of words: “If one can completely let go, then anywhere is a place of practice.” From then on, Xiong Gaoshi stopped his travel, and Ven. Longlian was even more determined to follow the path of Buddhist practice. If her grandmother was the first person to lead her to learn Buddhism, then Xiong Gaoshi was the second person who influenced her to the practice of learning Buddhism.

At the age of 11, Ven. Longlian arrived at Wuyou Temple with her father, and when she learned that Venerable Da Yong was visiting the mountain, she waited next to the “Guang Yi Pavilion.” When she saw Ven. Da Yong dressed in golden yellow haiqing robes, moving past gracefully on the mountain path, her faith was inspired and arose.

Due to the convergence of causes and conditions, Ven. Da Yong’s figure left a strong Buddhist imprint on her, leaving her with a longing in life (for ordination). She declared that she would don such robes when she grew up.

At the age of 13, after the death of her beloved grandfather, she came across an introductory book to the Pure Land sect written by Zhang Shicheng of the Qing Dynasty while sorting out a large number of books and documents left by her grandfather.

After reading it, she was impressed by the state of this passage:

“Transient life is like a dream, everything is empty. Everyone knows it, also talks about it, yet still seeking fulfilment all day long, never awaken, generally harbouring the thought that one will turn into ashes after death, or thinking that it is no big deal since one will reincarnate once one passes, and there’s nothing to really worry about… the suffering is endless.”

In order to liberate oneself from this suffering, she set foot on the secluded path of Buddhism and never looked back. At that time, unlike many monks, she was not, on the surface, seeking a way out of the cyclic existence of life, nor did she try to escape life’s challenges by taking ordination. Whether it was sagacity or her destiny, they are inseparable from her pure childlike self and the timelines of the causes and conditions.

Therefore, from my understanding, Ven. Longlian’s wisdom and affinity with Buddhism is self-arising, in line with the causes and conditions.

 

PART 2

“Buddhism is a life-saving virtue while Buddhist studies are the mother of salvation.”
Sun Zhongshan

Buddhism is self-confidence, not superstition, is positive rather than negative, is in line with the world rather than abandoning the world, is incorporating kindness and not a stand-alone virtue.

“Shakyamuni is a great philosopher, he has given us a lesson on the problems we usually are unable to solve in life.”
Lu Xun

In 1931, Ven. Longlian went with her father to the capital city of Chengdu for her first trip away from her hometown. With the help of her father’s friends there, she taught Mathematics at the Chengdu County Middle School for Girls for the first time in her life, making a modest contribution to help her family. At the same time, her talents started to show.

Ven. Longlian had been diligent and studious all her life. She studied poetry, painting and Buddhism from Liu Yubo and Liu Suyuan. She took part in the examination for ordinary administrators and higher education administrators in Sichuan Province, and topped the list on both attempts.

It can be said that this article is similar to another article she wrote in her teenage days, “the theory that a country must weaken or destroy itself before others could humiliate or destroy it”, or that it can be called a sister article. The previous article explains Ven. Longlian’s view of how a country can strengthen its political power. If a country was to survive, it must first consolidate the regime itself. The next article details how to consolidate: those in power must have the public in mind. That is, she said in her article, “when a country is falling apart, and the people are in deep trouble, the aspiring gentleman will appear to save the day and reason for disorder.”

 

PART 3

The Buddha is someone who is enlightened, and human beings are Buddhas who are not yet enlightened. The Dharma can enlighten the world, but it cannot change the existing state of the world. Although the Buddha can lead all living beings away from suffering, it is still up to them to make subjective efforts to determine whether or not they will be liberated.

Ven. Longlian was a woman of extraordinary wisdom. She saw that around her were rulers who were oppressive, corrupt, contrived, and trying to cheat or outwit each other, and for a small, pure and civilised woman like her, she couldn’t change this ugly society, yet she had to maintain her integrity, so what can she do?

She had to persevere to keep her body in society and to let her mind enter the path of the Buddhist kingdom.

She firmly believed that the Buddha kingdom is not in heaven but in the human world. Wherever Buddhism is transmitted and wherever Buddhism is propagated, there is a Kingdom of Buddha that corresponds to the history and culture of the region.

Leshan, Ven. Longlian’s hometown is a place where Buddhist culture has been spreading for a long time. It contains countless sites of historical and cultural heritage, and there were also puzzles left because of man-made destruction, natural disasters and the downfall of dynasties.

To solve these mysteries, Ven. Longlian read history, geography, Chinese, mathematics, medicine, sculpture, poetry, calligraphy and painting, English and Tibetan, advocated running a school, wrote books and learned, translated scriptures and preached, and promoted Buddhism.

In the eyes of the world, Ven. Longlian is a true nun. She is an ordained Sangha, a nun, master, great master, and even a living bodhisattva. In my eyes, she is a mortal with great compassion, great kindness, great sense of enlightenment, highly intelligent and blessed with profound knowledge.

She is a virtuous scholar and one of the world leaders of the Buddha’s kingdom. She propagates the teachings of Buddha, preaches the sutras and talks about the path without being enigmatic, and she always incorporates “teaching” in her life, teaching through labour, through ordinary life and hard work, to lead her believers to the path of enlightenment. Therefore, she is a centenarian who deserves the heartfelt support and love of the world and her believers.

The existence or absence of the Buddha-nature is the foundation of whether all living beings can become Buddhas. The spiritual methods and paths of various schools of Buddhism are also the guiding lights to support sentient beings to attain the fruits of the path.

The complementary and contradictory aspects of the Samathavipa Syana of Tian Tai school of Buddhism, the Dharmalaksana School’s “Transforming Consciousness and Gaining Wisdom”, and Tantric Buddhism’s “attaining Buddhahood with the present body”; the conflict between Zen Buddhism and Pure Land Buddhism, and the struggle between Sudden and Gradual enlightenment in Zen Buddhism etc., the most influential being the inquiry of Sudden and Gradual enlightenment.

Ven. Longlian was initially influenced by her grandmother to learn Buddhism. She first studied the Pure Land sect and, later, when she converted to Buddhism, her master Changyuan was also of the Pure Land sect.

However, in the 1940s, most of the great masters who went to Chengdu to give lectures or practice were of the Tantric tradition. Therefore, Ven. Longlian gradually accepted the method of practising Tantra.

In the Tantric view, spiritual practitioners could attain the state of enlightenment with their current body, born of their parents. From the Pure Land point of view , practitioners need to follow the methods of “holding and chanting the name of the Buddha” for an extended period of time consistently before they can take rebirth in the Western Paradise, in accordance to the vows of Amitabha Buddha, till the day the flower blooms and they get to see Buddha Amitabha directly, only then are they on the path to enlightenment, and even then, the fruition of their result can only come in their future life.

In the words of Master Huineng, the sixth Chan patriarch, “The Buddha Dharma is for this world. There is no enlightenment apart from this world. To seek Bodhi apart from this world is like seeking for horns on the rabbit.” It means that Buddhism cannot be separated from the society; once it is separated, it is not possible to achieve enlightenment through practice (of Buddhism).”

Therefore, Ven. Longlian felt that instead of calling her believers to go to the Western Paradise to become Buddhas, it was better to propagate Buddhadharma in the real world, and to promote the pure land in the human realm.

She thinks that it is necessary to focus on one school of Buddhism, but to also read other scriptures and to study Buddhism extensively. The key is to learn from whoever that has knowledge, and not to hold on to any label. The key is to study the fundamentals. Ven. Longlian is not only thinking and saying so, her actions reflect her belief.

Since abandoning her post as a senior official in the government in 1937, she took ordination under the Pure Land Master Ven. Changyuan, and went on to study with Wang Enyang, Ven. Fazun, Ven. Nenghai, Awang Khenpo and other teachers. She became a nun in Chengdu’s Aidaotang in 1941, and received precepts in February 1942 at the Chengdu Wenshuyuan. She successively translated “Exposition of the Bodhicaryavatara”, “The Mandala and Sadhana of Green Tara” and part of the Vairocana practice and ritual and so on.

In 1943, she was appointed the Academic Director of the Lianzong Women’s Institute of Studies and in 1949, transmitted the Siksamana vows in Chengdu’s Tiexiang Si. She also took part in the compilation of the Tibetan and Han Dictionary sponsored by the Institute of Liberal Arts of Sichuan University, the World Buddhist Encyclopaedia of Sri Lanka, and the religious section of the Sichuan Provincial Gazetteer and the Great Encyclopaedia.

In 1953, she was appointed a member of the Sichuan Provincial Museum of Literature and History, and joined the Chinese Buddhist Association in 1955. She was appointed to various positions such as Committee Member, member of the Executive Council, Deputy Secretary-General and Vice President.

She was the Chairperson of the Sichuan Buddhist Association for its first term, a member of the standing Committee of the fifth Sichuan Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), and a member of the sixth and seventh National Committee of the CPPCC. She was also Director of the Sichuan Bhikshuni Institute for Buddhist Studies.

Ven. Longlian devoted her life to the Buddhadharma, studied the Tripitaka extensively, cared for society with profound scholarship in the field of Tibetan and Chinese Buddhism, and was admired by devotees at home and abroad.

Ven. Longlian’s thoughts and theories, evolving in accordance with the development of the times, inheriting the tradition of Shakya and propagating the idea of “becoming a Buddha in this very body”, creating the general trend of ideological development and incorporating all types of Buddhist doctrines, developing the dialectical idealism without “deity” in Buddhism, has produced important research value and inspiration to the devotees and scholars of the present and future generations.

Her challenging and bumpy path of Buddhist learning and her application of great wisdom in life can be cited as exemplary in the Buddhist circle. I dare not comment on Ven. Longlian, and I beg for forgiveness from Ven. Longlian and her devotees if the above composition shows any disrespect as the above reflects only what I understood about Ven. Longlian.

Amitabha

Translated from: http://www.scybsf.com/view/150.html

 


 

About Chen Mowu

ChenMowu

Chen Mowu is a famous calligrapher. Originally from Kaixian County, Chongqing.

Among the many posts he holds, he is the Vice President of the Sichuan Calligraphers Association, member of the Sichuan Artists Association, member of the Sichuan Calligraphers Association, Director of the Sichuan Provincial Guild Institute, Director of the Chengdu Calligraphers Association.

His biography is featured in many collections, including the “Celebrities of Contemporary Chinese Art Circles”, “Dictionaries of Chinese Experts”, “Celebrities of the World Chinese Literature and Art Circles”, “Summary of Chinese Calligraphy”, and “Tutorials on Self-Study of a Fountain Pen”.

 

3. From Professor Chen Bing, a famous Buddhist scholar in China

The most touching aspect of Ven. Longlian is her Bodhisattva’s spirit of sacrificing herself to nurture the Sangha. I heard that she used to be an aloof intellectual and did not meet with people of low cultural levels. However, things completely changed after the economic reform period.

She was the Director of the Sichuan Bhikshuni Institute for Buddhist Studies and managed all the affairs. She taught classes at the institute, and although she was very busy, she still gave monthly lectures at Aidaotang and gave audience to visitors. Once, after a busy day, a group of lay practitioners came to meet her. Although the meeting could be arranged for the next day, she met these people on that night itself. She answered their questions and gave them advice in earnest words and with good intentions. She finally collapsed after the audience with a stroke and brain ischemia, and from then on, she was bedridden, but she was still very clear-headed.

It was mentioned that she said: “There is a huge gap in nurturing Buddhist talent, and there is a need to propagate the Buddhadharma, so I cannot go!” With a strong will, she extended her life and lived for more than a decade, including doing retreats and granting vows out of retreat.

Professor Chen Bing
Buddhist scholar, Sichuan University

 


 

About Professor Chen Bing

021

Chen Bing is a famous Buddhist scholar in China. He graduated in 1981 from the Department of Religion of the Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.

He currently serves as a Professor and Postgraduate Supervisor of Sichuan University’s Institute of Taoism and Religious Culture, and is the director of Sichuan University’s Buddhist Culture Research Center. He is also a Research Fellow at the Institute of Buddhist Studies in China, a librarian at the Sichuan Provincial History Museum, and a member of the Standing Committee of the 12th CPPCC in Chengdu.

He is the author of “The Buddha’s Wisdom”, “Zen Buddhism and Eastern Civilization”, “A Guide to Freedom in Buddhism”, “Buddhist Life and Death”, and “Buddhist Psychology”. He has published more than 100 papers over the years and nurtured more than 70 master’s and doctoral students.

 

Recommended Reading

Exposition of the Bodhicaryavatara by Ven. Longlian

 

Sources:

  • Ownby, D., & Goossaert, V. (2017). Making Saints in Modern China. New York: Oxford University Press.
  • http://thanhsiang.org/ch/node/1849
  • http://www.phoer.net/people/l/longlian.htm
  • http://www.zgfxy.cn/Article/2011/12/27/15143128.html
  • http://www.scybsf.com/view/112.html
  • https://baike.baidu.com/item/%E9%99%88%E5%85%B5/2209284
  • http://www.scybsf.com/view/150.html

 

For more interesting information:

 

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Pastor Shin Tan
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About Pastor Shin Tan

Pastor Shin's journey in Kechara started with her being a volunteer of Kechara Media & Publications in 2006, realising that there is a more spiritual and fulfilling way of living after she watched a series of H.E. Tsem Rinpoche's teachings on DVDs.

Today, as a Sangha-to-be and a Pastor of Kechara, Pastor Shin continues her pursue of spirituality through writing for tsemrinpoche.com, as well as promoting the lineage and Buddhadharma through Pastoral duties and online work in the thriving Kechara community.
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4 Responses to Ven. Longlian: Modern China’s Most Outstanding Bhiksuni

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  1. Samfoonheei on Aug 7, 2022 at 3:04 pm

    Interesting spiritual journey of Venerable Longlian one of the best-known students of a famous religious leader of modern China. Venerable Longlian was a talented child, at the age of four she could read, write well and was fluent in Chinese poetry. She even could recite scriptures and Buddha’s name and had visited frequently to templesqith her grandparents. Ven. Longlian studied everything from poetry to Chinese medicine under famous teachers at that time. Received teachings from Tibetan scholars as well and took initiations of the three main Gelugpa tantric deities, Vajrabhairava, Guhyasamaja and Chakrasamvara from Changkya Khutukhtu, who was one of the highest authorities in the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism. She did composed more than 1000 poems, through her years.
    Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor Shin for this interesting write up of China’s most outstanding Bhiksuni.

  2. Samfoonheei on Aug 7, 2022 at 3:01 pm

    In the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, monastic vows are for life. But somehow Ci’en temple in Zhejiang province offers three-month course and part-time vows recently. Situated in the luxurious forest, Ci’en temple a small temple remains its charm with impressive landscape and Buddhist culture. The Buddhist temple decided to offer admission to civilians who wanted to experience a monk’s life, only to be overwhelmed with applicants. It’s a small temple , hence only those were interested in Buddhism were given a chance. Participants of the program will live as monks in the temple free of charge. They will learn about Buddhist culture, read its scriptures and will also perform all Buddhist activities as arranged. It’s a good training ground to live as a monk or nun to cultivate minds.
    Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor Shin for this sharing.

  3. Samfoonheei on May 22, 2021 at 3:52 pm

    Interesting read of a great Buddhist scholar, author, researcher ,editor-translator…. Ven. Longlian. Venerable Longlian was awarded a rare public recognition with the title of “The Foremost Bhiksuni of Contemporary China”. Her high academic achievements are well known across the globe far and near. She had studied with many Buddhist masters including Tibetan lamas . Of all her teachers, who had the most impact on Ven. Longlian was Ven. Nenghai. Inspiring Buddhist scholar how she had achieved through difficult times and during the Chinese Cultural Revolution. Ven. Longlian studied voraciously – everything from poetry to Chinese medicine – with famous teachers. She was an author of numerous books and essays. Aside from her profound knowledge of Buddhism, she spoke English and Tibetan, which was rare in China. Was one of the compilers of A Great Tibetan-Chinese Dictionary…inspiring. She even learnt how to mould Buddhist statues in the Tibetan tradition with Ven. Nenghai. She did composed more than 1000 poems and also one of the most renowned Chinese calligraphers. Ven Longlian dedicated her whole life to Dharma that’s inspiring even at the age of 90 she still gave teachings. Venerable Longlian did fulfilled her wish to establish a Buddhist college for nuns . Ven. Longlian, the first Bhiksuni of modern times, as described by famous artist and scholar.Chen Mowu. Ven. Longlian had inspired countless adherents, many Buddhist scholars, academics, ordained monastics, and members of the public..
    Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor Shin for this interesting,inspiring write up. Beautiful pictures shared.

    • Pastor Shin Tan on May 25, 2021 at 5:52 am

      Thank you for leaving a comment Sam. Venerable Longlian’s life is amazing, her dedication towards the spread of Buddhadharma especially, amongst her other achievements of having been a great scholar, poet, and more. I was surprised to have found out about this great nun and am glad that I can share her story here on Rinpoche’s blog for more to know and rejoice about her great deeds 🙏.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


Ask the Pastors

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

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

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

  • March 28, 2024 05:40
    Jason asked: Continuing from the previous answer, how do we liberate ourselves from samsara if it’s impossible to not create further karma while existing in samsara? If we create karma just be existing, that means that we will keep reincarnating over and over again so it seems like we’re stuck in the cycle
    pastor answered: Dear Jason, You've asked a very interesting follow-up question. Generally speaking, yes if you are in samsara, then you are always creating more karma. That's why the goal of Buddhists is to be liberated from samsara. The Buddha and other enlightened beings achieved this and the practice of Dharma itself is geared towards achieving this. I'll try to explain it here, hopefully I can do so in such a short space. So, normally there is no way out of samsara, but when you practice the Dharma there is. Remember in my previous reply to you, I mentioned that there are differing levels of severity of karma? Some are heavier, some lighter, etc. When practising the Dharma, you reduce the amount of karma that you produce. When you have less effects of karma, due to less negative karma itself, you can focus more on the spiritual practices that lead to liberation. I'll take the examples of the Refuge vows. There are 10 of them, split into three categories related to the body, speech and mind. First is the body, which includes to abstain form killing, as killing creates negative karma. The in the speech section, it includes to abstain from lying. This is harder to do. What is easier - to abstain from killing another human being, or lying to another person. The easier one is not to kill. Hence, you train yourself in this manner, working from those actions that are easiest to avoid, working up to those that are harder. For example in the mind section, one of the vows is not to covet something that another person has. But this is harder to do than either not lying or not killing. In other words, in our spiritual practice, we reduce the karma that we create though the actions of our body, speech and mind. Since we have less karma, we suffer less. And then finally, we are get to really subtle levels of karma, which are like residue in our mindstreams. But it's still there. In order to get out of samsara, you need to realise what we call emptiness (which is way to complicated to talk about here). In other words, the very path of the Dharma is to reduce the karma we create, starting with the easiest and working up to the hardest, which is where it becomes the easiest to understand emptiness. This who journey is a process, that's why teachings such as the Lamrim are indesipensible as it shows us the actual way to practice. Normally, we are stuck in Samsara. But when we practice the Dharma and ultimately realise emptiness (there are many, many steps in between) we are able to get out of samsara completely. This may sound confusing, which is why in Buddhism study, understand and practice is very important. We have Dharma classes available, where you can learn and find out more: https://www.kechara.com/learn/dharma-classes/ I hope this helps.
  • March 27, 2024 06:10
    Jason asked: People-especially family put certain expectations on us and when we refuse, it causes them a lot of stress and anger and we make them suffer…. my family wants me to marry and have kids but I don’t want to be tied down to Samsara any further and just explaining that I want to shave my head drives my mom crazy and she starts speaking to me in a very loud and forceful manner saying that she doesn’t care what I have to say and that she knows better than me so she will do whatever it takes make me have a family even if she ends up becoming a villain in my eyes because it’s for my own good so that I won’t be alone and lonely when I’m old. When we say no to people, especially to people who care about us and want the best for us, do we accumulate negative karma from causing them emotional turmoil and pain
    pastor answered: Dear Jason, Thank you for your question. In essence, any action that causes another person harm or suffering whether physical or emotional generates negative karma. But karma is complicated and not as simple as we usually think about it. There are differences in level of severity of karma created, some can be very light and some can be heavy. These are due to the variables when creating karma, such as motivation, the actions, your feelings after it, etc. This can all be found in teachings that talk about karma, especially the Lamrim teachings. In Buddhism we teach that we need to avoid the creation of negative karma for sure. But simply by being stuck in samsara, there is actually no way out of creating karma. That is why Buddhists seek to be free from samsara altogether. Only when we are free from samsara, are we free from the creation of karma. In relation to your situation, if you are young and rely on your parents, for now you should try not to do things that are create division or disharmony within the family environment. That itself if the practice of the Dharma. Then later, when you are independent you can make more of an informed choice about what you want to do. Even in your current situation, you can practice the Dharma, it is not necessary to become a monk or nun to progress on your spiritual path. Dharma can be practiced in any environment, and actually practising towards our family is the best. When we transform our minds and our behvariours and they see just how beneficial this transformation is, this is the best way to show them that Dharma is good. This was a piece of advice that Tsem Rinpoche used to tell people in family situations all the time. I hope this helps you.
  • March 26, 2024 02:28
    Rojal Poudel asked: How can I meet my guru? Does one need a guru for initiation for tantra and other stuff on the path to enlightenment? Does one need a guru to attain enlightenment?
    pastor answered: Dear Rojal, Thank you for your question. In regards to meeting your guru, there are many different ways. These days you can meet your guru online as well. For example, many people did not meet Tsem Rinpoche personally, but they consider him to be there guru. You may find this article interesting: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/the-guru-protocol-a-guide-to-knowing-who-your-guru-is.html In regards to tantra, yes, one definitely needs a qualified guru to bestow initiation and teach us the path of practice once you have initiation. In regards to our tradition, it is also considered necessary to have a guru to attain full enlightenment. Hope this helps. The article lined above will definitely help to answer some of your questions on a deeper level. Thank you.
  • March 25, 2024 10:35
    Rojal Poudel asked: How can you deepen your spiritual progress while sleeping? I heard some people can go to pure lands and get teachings directly from Buddha’s, Bodhisattva’s, and Dharma Protecters. Are these possible from Lucid Dreaming and Astral Projection?
    pastor answered: Dear Rojal, Thank you for your questions. It's always nice to see you here wanting to learn more. Yes it is definitely possible to deepen your practice in your sleep. This is done during practice of Highest Yoga Tantra, after receiving initiation and progressed along generation stage practice. This would obviously include everything before receiving such iniation such as having a basis and grounding in the Three Principle Aspects of the Path and the Lamrim teachings. In this practice you are able to use sleep to engage in meditation. This would need you to be able to lucid dream before hand. The ability to lucid dream itself can be developed a number of ways, but the most common is single-pointed mediation concentration during waking life. This is also known as Shamatha meditation. But in this case, the object of your meditation should be a mental one, rather than a physical one. The best would be a visualisation of the Buddha. All of this is outlined in the Lamrim teachings in the section on developing concentration. In terms of Astral Travel, yes it is definitely possible, and again there are different methods to go about this. Again this should be done only after having received the appropriate intiations and teachings from your guru. However, there are quite a few dangers involved with this. As Tsem Rinpoche mentioned before, the two main ones is that your consciousness is not able to return to your body and two that a spirit can take possession of your body if your protection is not strong and you have not invoked a Dharma protector to help with protection aspects. Another thing about astral travel, is that even if learn how to do it, it is not necessary that you can actually visit pure lands or receive teachings, etc. This is because, to do this, would require a lot of merit. So there are many things and practices to develop merit before you should engage in it. Often times, people who claim that they have received teachings or visited purelands, actually haven't though they may think that they did. It could simply be a projection of one's mind and in some serious cases perhaps even due to spirits mascarading. If you would like to learn lucid dreaming, please look into the teachings of single-pointed concentration normally. The ability of lucid dreaming comes naturally for those who progress in their shamatha meditation. As for astral travel practices, I would advise not to engage in such practices unless you receive the appropriate initiations, teachings from and under the strict supervision of a qualified guru. Hope this helps.
  • March 24, 2024 01:17
    Dirji asked: How can I see my kaytsa
    pastor answered: Dear Dirji, We are sorry, but we do not understand your question. Perhaps because you asked using the english phoenetics of the word. If possible, please post again using either the English translation of the word or using the Tibetan script, so that we can help you properly. Thank you.
  • March 23, 2024 12:11
    Marc asked: What is the direct translation of Tsem Rinpoche’s name mantra? Thank you 🙏🏽
    pastor answered: Dear Marc, Thank you for your question. You can find a translation of the meaning of Tsem Rinpoche's name mantra on Kechara's Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=683136630510067. Hope this helps. Thank you.
  • March 22, 2024 20:27
    Rojal Poudel asked: I am about to leave everything behind. I am tired of this life where I do the same thing everyday. I see everything but dharma as an illusion. I want to attain some sort of realization so that I can benefit other sentient beings. I am very inspired by the story of Milarepa, who gave up everything to learn dharma. Even the Buddha gave up comfort and luxury in search for this supreme truth. I also want to follow the Please tell me what I should do.
    pastor answered: Dear Rojal, We can understand that you feel this way, and seeing the illusion of life should definitely motivate us to want to achieve something more spiritual. In the past when people asked Tsem Rinpoche the same question, he used to tell people a couple of things: > The first is that there are two methods to deal with our spiritual path. The first is to physically renounce everything and go into the wilderness, like Buddha Shakyamuni and Milarepa did. To cut yourself from everyone and everything and meditate continuously for years until you achieve realisation. But this is very hard to do in our day and age. We still need to have contact with people, there are the necessities of life to think about. Rinpoche said we need to think about things from a practice angle also. It takes a very great level of practitioner with an immense store of merit to be able to do this successfully. > The second method is to keep living within our a community and use them as a support for the transformation of the mind and spiritual progress. For example, that it why we have monasteries and nunneries, or Dharma centres and organisations to help with spiritual practice. This method is more measured, but you can still gain the same results. This is the more practical method. Especially according to the Mahayana path of practice, Bodhisattvas need to practice certain qualities in our minds and we progress towards enlightenment. Such qualities include the Six Perfections, but if we are not around others, how do we practice them? In order to practice generosity, we need others to be generous towards. In order to practice patience, we need others to be patient towards. In order to practice morality and ethics, we need to be in situations to be able to practice our vows. Enlightened beings like Buddha and Milarepa were able to do all of this in their minds during meditation but as mentioned before they were already high level pracitioners with immense merit. For example, Buddha Shakyamuni had three countless aeons of consistent practice life time after life time until his achieved enlightenment. > Another thing that Rinpoche shared, that while understanding the drawbacks of life and the benefits of becoming enlightened, a lot of the time what happens these days is that it is mixed up with emotion due to the challenges of life. People are looking for an escape, but not an escape from samsara into enlightenment, but simple an escape from their current problems. The need for escape, known as renunciation in Buddhism, is not to simply escape samsara, but developed in a certain way through contemplation and meditation. When we have such feelings, we should analyse them to see if they are in accord with the teachings and the methods of developing true renunciation. Many people also have a unrealistic way of thinking about physical renunciation and the spiritual path in general. Most people think it is easy, but it is not, is difficult because we need to deal with our minds, our emotions, our traumas, etc, from countless lives. If we don't have a firm foundation in Dharma practice and transformation before we attempt something like Buddha Shakyamuni or Milarepa, we will give up after a while because we find it too hard. And perhaps give up spiritual practice because the path did not actually match our expectations. So the key is to be as realistic as possible about our spiritual path. So our advice, rather than give up everything, as you may have family or other responsibilities, is to use your current situation to transform your mind, to practice the teachings right now in life, so that you can start progressing along the spiritual life. The best way to do this is to practice the Lamrim teachings, which give you a firm roadmap of how and what to practice in a sequential manner. Giving up everything is not necessary to make real progress on the spiritual path, as outlined in the Lamrim, but sustained and consistent practice is the key. Then use the situations in your life to actualise that transformation. We hope this helps.
  • March 21, 2024 00:44
    Jason asked: I listened to Tsem Rinpoche’s dharma talk and was inspired to be patient and kind towards other. For a while I felt like my mind had transformed and I started being more proactive in helping others and making sure to complete my responsibilities as perfectly as I can to not burden others and taking the initiative to help people that I see are struggling with their work but recently I have been feeling like I’m actually harming others instead of helping them by being kind because I feel like I’m enabling their bad behavior and rude attitude, especially one person in particular that I have to work with. No matter how much I help and show kindness, they don’t seem to change…and now I feel like a pushover for smiling and helping them even though they don’t show any appreciation or respect for it and instead take advantage of me and push even more of their responsibilities on me. I’ve been having thoughts that my kindness and patience has just become a cover for fear of confrontation now. What should I do? I feel like I’m gonna lose control and lash out even though I try to focus my mind on how the people around me must be struggling
    pastor answered: Dear Jason, Thank you for your question. We are very happy to hear that Tsem Rinpoche's Dharma talks have inspired you, especially to practice patience and kindness towards others. Please do keep it up, the benefits of both qualities are immense and are central to spiritual transformation. We should always try our best to practice both patience and kindness, but sometimes practising it in the way we think may not be the best option. For example, in the case that you mentioned, it is not having the right effect on your own mind and also you are enabling your co-worker to exhibit negative behaviours as well. In this case, actually practising kindness would not be to become a pushover, taking more responsibilities, etc. This isn't beneficial for your or the co-worker. So here, practising kindness would actually be not to allow the person to do such things, but it should be practised with patience and not out of emotion. So you would do this in a very skilfful manner. The best would be to have a talk with your co-worker in a very calm manner and explain how you are feeling and how they are making you feel in the work environment, and try to sort out the situation before it progresses. Especially since you are having such thoughts of anger and the posibility of lashing out. Practicing kindness and patience is not at all become a push over or allowing others to skip out on their responsibilities, etc. We really hope this helps. Thank you.
  • March 20, 2024 14:49
    Sok asked: Hello respected pastors. Is Kusha grass same as Durva grass? How to obtain kusha grass?
    pastor answered: Dear Sok, Kusha grass and Durva grass are two different types of grass, they are not the same. Kusha grass is also known as halfa grass, big cordgrass, or salt reed-grass. Its scientific name is Desmostachya Bipinnata. In shape, each blade of grass is long and straight. Durva grass is also known as bermuda grass. Its scientific name is Cynodon Dactylon. In shape, each blade looks segmented and has smaller leaves sprouting from it. You can google the scientific name to see the difference between the two. Generally, they can be bought at Indian religious stores if there are any nearby where you live. Alternatively, if you live in Asia, you can buy a traditional grass broom, which you can substitue for the Kusha grass. It is a close relative of Kusha grass and the lamas have said that it can be used as substitue if you cannot find the actual grass. I hope this helps. Thank you.
  • March 19, 2024 20:56
    Bhavisha asked: How to know wheather specific LOCAL deity is enlighten or not?
    pastor answered: Dear Bhavisha, Local deities are not enlightened. They are sentient beings who look after or take care of a specific area. There are different names for these types of beings, such as local deities, Land God, Landowner deities, etc. They belong to the God Realm, but as other beings in the god realm, they are not enlightened. Hope this helps.
  • March 18, 2024 09:57
    Rojal Poudel asked: What comes after attaining samatha or calm abiding meditation?
    pastor answered: Dear Rojal, Nice to see you back here! Shamatha is a tool, basically through this meditation you develop single pointed concentration. But after developing that, you use it to engage in Vipashyana meditation, otherwise known as Special Insight. Different traditions have different version of Special Insight. In our tradition, we use this type of meditation to analyse what we call "emptiness." The teachings on the emptiness are the actual teaching that leads to enlightenment. All other teachings or practices help to prepare your mind to be able to do this. Shamatha comes in, because the topic of emptiness is so deep, that we need single-pointed concentration to analyse it. If we don't have this type of concentration, we will not be able to understand emptiness. Hence, shamatha and vipashyana meditation are used in tandem to achieve enlightenment. This may seem a little abstract. The Lamrim teachings go into this in a lot of detail. They can be found in the chapters dealing with the Concentration and Wisdom as part of the Six Perfections in the Great Scope sections of the Lamrim. Hope this helps. Thank you.
  • March 17, 2024 23:16
    Jonathan Tan asked: Hi Dear Pastor, I am curious if H.E 25th Tsem Rinpoche had any heart disciples (son/daughter) Is there a difference between heart and root disciples?
    pastor answered: Dear Jonathan, Thank you for your question. There is no one heart disciple of Tsem Rinpoche. This usually refers to specific person who carries on the teachings and practices of a particular teacher. Tsem Rinpoche wanted something different for Kechara, hence we carry on his teachings and practices as a group, rather than one specific person. Rinpoche trained his students, who are either Sangha, Pastors or senior students in various ways of continuing his teachings, especially through the work that they do. In this way, we continue Rinpoche's teachings as a group rather than any one heart disciple. Hope that this helps. Thank you.
  • March 16, 2024 01:18
    Sirius asked: Hi dear pastors, I'd like to get recomendations on how to improve my actual sadhana. My morning starts by taking refuge and making offerings to the three jewls, followed by Lama Tsongkhapa's Guru Yoga. After this I usually study Lam Rim, and other Dharma Texts. During the afternoon I meditate for a about an hour or so, and somedays I do the Dorje Shugden sadhana given by Rinpoche. Finally at night I finish my day by doing Vajrasattva meditation and confession to the 35 Buddhas. What else can I do to improve my sadhana? What practices would you recomend me to do? Do you have recomendations on texts I could read? I would like to add that I live in Argentina, and I do not have any buddhist temple near sadly, so I cannot go there to practice, learm or collab. I would appreciate advice on this. Thank you in advance.
    pastor answered: Dear Sirius, Thank you for your question. In terms of practice, you are doing a lot. We are very happy to read that you are doing all these beneficial practices. They will be very beneficial for you. What you are doing is very good already, the only thing that I would say is to make the Dorje Shugden sadhana consistent as well as the others. If you are doing the short Diamond Path sadhana, it includes the Vajrasatta meditations, so you don't have to do it separately. We just have some points to help you improve your practice: > First is whenever you do any of the practices, is it vital to make sure you take refuge, generate bodhicitta and practice the four immeasurables before each session. And then at the end of the session, make sure to dedicate. This seals the merit generated from your practice. This is very important as if we don't have the correct motivation at the beginning and dedicate it at the end, since the merit is not sealed, the positive potential is destroyed when we have disturbing emotions, especially anger. > The second is to be consistent in your practices and do them daily. If you cannot be consistent with the practices you are doing at the moment, then reduce what you are doing to make it simple, for example just the Diamond Path (which includes Tsongkhapa's Guru Yoga anyway). Then once you are consistent daily, later you can slow add in other practices and become consistent with them. > The third is to keep revising the teachings on these practices, understand the motivation, deepen your visualisations, etc. > In regards to your meditation, if you are doing breathing or concentration meditation, again, revise the teachings again and again to make your practice stronger and understand where you are on your meditational path. > You can also spend some time every day, maybe five or ten minutes contemplating the Lamrim teachings step by step. This itself is extremely transformational and will propel you along the spiritual path. In regards to what else to study or read, here is a very good article: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/books-that-are-a-must-read.html If you consider Tsem Rinpoche to be your spiritual teacher, there are thousands of hours of teachings on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoTg0Wc5q3Gnz8ej3ETCdMQ You can watch and re-watch them to deepen your understanding and practice. I hope all of this helps.
  • March 14, 2024 05:53
    Alby asked: Hi, I was just wondering if spirits or ghost can possess Buddha statues and haunt the owner of the statue? I heard that before inviting a statue of the Buddha into your house, it has to be blessed by monks first. Is this a necessary requirement?
    pastor answered: Dear Alby, The physical form representations of the Buddhas, including statues, are very special as each form of a Buddha represents not only the path to enlightenment, but the state of enlightenment itself. In fact, even just seeing a Buddha image plants imprints in our minds that will open when the conditions are right, to help us further along our spiritual path. So they are powerful and protective in and of themselves, as long as they have been created according to correct iconography. This last point is very important. That being said, images or statues are just pieces of metal or clay, etc. When statues are consecrated, they actually become the embodiement of the Three Jewels (Buddha, Dharma and Sangha). That's why making offerings and doing any virtuous activity (even cleaning them) generates merit for your spiritual journey. As embodiments of the Three Jewels there is no way that they can be possessed by spirits that haunt the owner of the statue. Traditionally, statues are made to be hollow and then filled with certain mantras and holy items, then consecrated. Following the traditional method will be the most effective to bless your statue properly. If your statue is hollow, at Kechara we offer a service to fill your statue properly with the correct mantras, etc. The service is part of Kechara Saraswati Arts. You can find out more here: https://www.kechara.com/services/buddhist-art/ We also have DIY kits available if you cannot send your statue in and would like to do it yourself: https://www.vajrasecrets.com/mantra-rolls-complete [Please note these mantras are inserted into specific parts of the statue, you can contact Vajrasecrets through the website to get more information on how to fill the statue yourself] https://www.vajrasecrets.com/mantra-rolls-anywhere [These mantras can be inserted anywhere within the statue] If you cannot do any of these, then at the very least, you should insert something into the statue so that it is not completely hollow. This can be a piece of paper with the mantra OM AH HUM written on it (either Tibetan or English is fine). Then roll this up and place in the statue. Otherwise you can use a pearl or semi-precious stone, etc. While statues themselves have protective power, when they are left empty there is a certain type of spirit that come to reside inside a statue as it is completely hollow. It's a spirit that likes hollow places. However, this type of spirit is not usually malicious or harmful. But that is one of the reasons a statue is never left hollow. Once the filling is done, the traditional ceremonies of consecration known as Soongdrup Puja (to bless the insertion items) and the Rabney Puja (to fully consecrate the statues) are performed, which we also offer https://www.vajrasecrets.com/rabney-soongdrup-consecration-puja-fund For those who cannot have the pujas done for whatever reason, you can actually bless the statues yourself. A comprehensive guide and the prayers necessary for doing this are available here: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/prayers-and-sadhanas/how-to-bless-buddha-images-yourself.html Given all of this, yes there is a type of spirit that can inhabit statues, but only if they are completely empty and not consecrated (whether by a monk, lay practitioner, yourself, it doesn't matter). But this type of spirit cannot haunt the person, etc, in that sense. It simply resides in the statue. The reason why statues are blessed or consecrated is so that they embody the Three Jewels, they become immense objects of merit making and protection from spirits, negativity, etc. So, if you do have a statue or are thinking of an inviting a statue, the best would be to have it filled and consecrated properly. However, even if you cannot, you can do the blessing yourself. There is no need to worry about a statue being haunted if not consecrated by a monk before you invite it or bring home. In fact, if you have a personal practice, at the end of your practice you can dissolve your visualisation into the statue, to bless it. This actually makes your statue much more powerful than consecration alone. You basically bless your statue through your own daily practice. I hope this information helps. Thank you.
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CHAT PICTURES

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