Beautiful ancient Tibetan art to share with you

Mar 18, 2024 | Views: 13,671

variousdsthangkasthumb

(By Tsem Rinpoche)

Dear friends,

I have always been attracted to Buddhist art and iconography and this attraction for me started at a very young age. In Howell, New Jersey where I grew up, I would always find excuses to visit our local temples which were just 10 minutes away from my house. Not only did I love hanging out with the monks, and not only was it somewhere safe and away from my home life with my parents, but being at the temple meant I could spend hours staring at and praying in front of the beautiful art thangkas (brocaded scroll paintings of various Buddhas) and statues they had there.

When I wasn’t at the temples, I would go to my local library and scour through the books looking for Buddhist iconography which I would then Xerox and keep in my room. Back then, Buddhist iconography was extremely rare and was considered really exotic, especially in a small town like Howell… this was way before the Internet made everything easy!

Later, when I ran away to Los Angeles, I had the opportunity to set up my own altar. But I was too poor to afford statues so I would look for images of Buddhas and frame them up for my altar.

So I have always had the habit of looking for beautiful Buddha images and that habit has stayed with me until now. It’s one of the things that I like to do when I have a bit of free time. So recently, I was going through the Himalayan Art Resources website (very nice website) when I stumbled across their Dorje Shugden section. It was really exciting for me because even though I have visited their site many times in the past, I have never seen this many images of Dorje Shugden. I also found that their artwork came from all traditions and schools of Buddhism.

Although it was a pleasant surprise, it was not unexpected because I know that historically, Dorje Shugden as a Dharma Protector has been relied upon by all sects of Tibetan Buddhism. This is a proven fact. For example, there is an extensive Sakya kangso (or puja text) to propitiate Dorje Shugden according to the Sakya tradition. I have come across the writings of the great Drukpa Kagyu lama His Holiness the 4th Zhabdrung Rinpoche Jigme Norbu, demonstrating a connection between Dorje Shugden and the Kagyu sect. My students have also found historical records of Dorje Shugden murals on the walls of Nyingma monasteries. Not to mention all the texts and prayers composed by Gelugpa lamas such as His Holiness the 5th Dalai Lama, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, His Holiness the 10th Panchen Lama, His Holiness Kyabje Pabongka Rinpoche, His Holiness Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche and His Holiness Kyabje Ling Rinpoche.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama (centre) with his root gurus His Holiness Ling Rinpoche (left) and His Holiness Trijang Rinpoche (right). All three lamas wrote prayers propitiating Dorje Shugden.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama (centre) with his root gurus His Holiness Ling Rinpoche (left) and His Holiness Trijang Rinpoche (right). All three lamas wrote prayers propitiating Dorje Shugden.

So this time, instead of primarily text-based evidence of Shugden worship in all sects of Tibetan Buddhism, I find the Dorje Shugden artwork below to be very exciting because:

 

1. It is visual proof that Dorje Shugden is not sectarian, and that he was practised by the other Tibetan Buddhist traditions too.

This totally contradicts the campaign of misinformation that the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) have maintained against Dorje Shugden since they first banned him in 1996. For the last 22 years, from their headquarters in Dharamsala, North India, the Tibetan exiled leadership have accused Dorje Shugden of being a sectarian deity. They say that because he is predominantly practised by the Gelugs today, he will not protect and will harm practitioners of other non-Gelug traditions. Thus, according to the CTA, engaging in his practice is akin to encouraging sectarianism.

However, if Dorje Shugden was actually sectarian, how come people who lived decades (if not centuries) ago painted him amongst deities popular in other traditions? People only paint images of deities they have faith in, want to worship and propitiate. They do not paint images of deities they dislike, and they especially do not paint deities they dislike alongside those they worship.

For example, in many of these thangkas, Dorje Shugden is featured alongside Guru Rinpoche, a Buddha who is predominantly practised by the Nyingmas, Sakyas and Kagyus. Does the Tibetan leadership expect us to believe that when people prostrated to these thangkas, made offerings, and hung them up on their altars, they only prostrated or made offerings to the portion of the thangkas that did not include Dorje Shugden? How illogical.

These thangkas clearly show that in reality, there is no conflict between (for example) Guru Rinpoche’s practice and that of Dorje Shugden. Any perceived conflict between the Tibetan Buddhist sects and traditions is an invented story laced with political motivation and manipulation.

 

2. It disproves the Tibetan leadership’s claim that Palden Lhamo and Nechung do not get along with Dorje Shugden.

Among one of the first reasons the Tibetan leadership gave for banning Dorje Shugden, they said Nechung had taken trance and declared that it is necessary for all Tibetans to give up the practice, otherwise Palden Lhamo would not be happy. Never mind that Palden Lhamo is enlightened and therefore incapable of anger, and therefore the CTA’s statement is illogical.

These thangkas therefore prove that the CTA’s statements have no basis. If Palden Lhamo was so unhappy with people practising Dorje Shugden, why is it that hundreds of years ago, people made thangkas featuring Dorje Shugden and Palden Lhamo in the same painting? Not only were they in the same painting, but they were also depicted on an equal footing. Were the lamas who worshipped these images wrong to do so, and only the CTA is right in their assessment of Palden Lhamo and Dorje Shugden’s relationship?

Or perhaps Palden Lhamo’s anger towards Dorje Shugden is a recent phenomenon? But if that is the case, how come the lamas of yesteryear were unable to use their clairvoyance to determine that in the future, Palden Lhamo would not be happy with Dorje Shugden and therefore discourage Dorje Shugden practice and the production of these thangkas? Is it that they did not have clairvoyance and they were all wrong, and only the Dalai Lama is correct and clairvoyant about how unhappy Palden Lhamo would eventually be with Dorje Shugden? And how come Palden Lhamo did not discourage the practice decades ago, and waited until 1996 to tell Nechung to tell everyone that if they continue with Shugden practice, she would be unhappy?

In the 400 years since Dorje Shugden practice arose, countless images of him together with other Buddhas have been produced. Since Dorje Shugden is so bad, should all of these old thangkas be destroyed? Why did Palden Lhamo withhold information about Dorje Shugden, and allow so many thangkas to be produced? Imagine the negative karma accumulated from destroying images of Palden Lhamo, Guru Rinpoche, Mahakala, etc. simply because the CTA says Dorje Shugden is bad and his images should not exist. Since Palden Lhamo allowed hundreds of years to pass by, during which time all these images were produced, then is she intentionally allowing people to accumulate the negative karma of being compelled to destroy Buddha images due to the CTA’s rulings? The ban on Dorje Shugden is to delegate the failings of the CTA for not getting Tibet back since 1959 (57 years) and distract the public by making Dorje Shugden a scapegoat. Focus on how ‘bad’ Shugden is instead of the failures of CTA being refugees for 57 years with no end in sight!

Of course, all of this is illogical. Palden Lhamo is a Buddha and it is not possible she made a mistake, and it is not possible that she put people in a position to accumulate negative karma by having to destroy Buddha images, or by worshiping mistaken images of her and Dorje Shugden. It is much more logical to say that the CTA manipulated the Tibetan people’s faith in Nechung, by using his trances and proclamations to publish false statements about the relationship between Dorje Shugden and Palden Lhamo.

 

3. The thangkas are very old, and not new reproductions.

That is to say, they were produced before the Dorje Shugden ban, at a time when there were no politics colouring the practice, and people were free to engage in whatever practices they wished, free from persecution or the fear of it. These thangkas go to show that when the CTA accuses Dorje Shugden of being sectarian, or says that other deities are not happy with Dorje Shugden, their statements are made with some hidden agenda or ulterior motive in mind. The simple proof is that hundreds of years ago, practitioners and lamas of that time and the people who produced these thangkas did not share the opinions of the current CTA.

 

4. Whatever lies the Tibetan leadership want to make up, the truth is the truth.

Regardless of the Tibetan leadership’s efforts since the time of the 5th Dalai Lama to stamp out Dorje Shugden practice, Dorje Shugden is a Buddha and people will continue to rely on him, pray to him, make offerings to him, and create images of him for as long as they see benefit in and a reason for doing so. The CTA will never be able to entirely eradicate the practice, as is their wish, and so the longer they focus on it, direct their efforts and channel their resources towards it, quite simply it is a waste of time and energy that they could be putting towards other initiatives and endeavours. As these thangkas clearly show, faith and reliance on Dorje Shugden is not a new phenomenon that is a passing trend, fad or craze. It is something that is well-established, stable, widespread and very, very popular.

All that being said, I am very, very happy to be able to bring you these images of Dorje Shugden from all the different traditions. If the Gelug, Nyingma, Sakya and Kagyu great masters and practitioners of the past saw huge benefits in relying on Dorje Shugden, so much so that they included him in such a wide range of paintings and images, it stands to reason that practitioners of today will also benefit from relying on Dorje Shugden too. Because it is not one, two or even five paintings that we are looking at, but over 40! And my guess is, there are many, many more that exist out there in the world that we just don’t know about yet.

In reality, whatever we want to pray to or rely on is entirely our personal choice and a private matter, and no one should be able to tell us what we can and cannot pray to. Certainly no one has the right to impose sanctions upon us for the spiritual choices that we make. So putting current politics and issues aside, I hope that you will also be able to appreciate the artistic merit and talent that stands behind Tibetan art which is spiritual, ancient and beautiful, and done with purpose and meaning. Please download these beautiful ancient paintings for your shrine or to share with others.

Tsem Rinpoche

 


 

1. Amitabha (Nirmanakaya)

Origin Location: Tibet
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Shelley & Donald Rubin

Insert caption here

A thangka of Amitabha Buddha and Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

s

Back of the thangka. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

(Top row): Lama Tsongkhapa and his two heart sons, Heruka, Yamantaka, H.H. Pabongka Rinpoche, Manjushri and White Tara.

(Centre row): Amitabha Buddha and Guhyasamaja.

(Bottom row): Dorje Shugden, Kalarupa, Six-Armed Mahakala, Namtose and Dorje Ta’og.

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/1120

 

2. Amitayus (Sambhogakaya)

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1900 – 1959
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Private

A beautiful thangka of the three long life deities as the centre images. Click on image to enlarge. For a description of the deities, click here.

A beautiful thangka with the Three Long Life Deities as the central image. Dorje Shugden is also depicted in the painting. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Amitayus Buddha, White Tara and Ushnishavijaya. Collectively they are known as the Three Long Life Deities. The painting depicts at the top right and left the two 20th century teachers Pabongkha Dechen Nyingpo (1878-1941) and the 14th Dalai Lama (b.1935). The two images appear as if they were created using well known black and white photographs of the time. It is possible that the artist is Amdo Jampa Tseten (1911-202) who was encouraged by Gendun Chophel (1903-1951) to do photo realistic portraits.

At the top centre is Tsongkapa with the two principal students Gyaltsab and Khedrub. To the left is the 14th Dalai Lama seated on a throne. At the far left is Maitreya in Tushita Heaven.

At the top right is the Gelug teacher Pabongkha Dechen Nyingpo seated on a throne. At the far right is Amitabha Buddha seated in Sukhavati.

At the bottom centre is Shadbhuja Mahakala with six arms. On the left side is the buffalo faced Yama Dharmaraja and Shri Devi Magzor Gyalmo riding a mule. On the right side is Vaishravana Riding a Lion and Dorje Shugden atop a blue lion.

Jeff Watt 5-2013

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/30987

 

3. Shakyamuni Buddha

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1900 – 1959
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Private

Front of the Buddha Shakyamuni thangka with Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

A Buddha Shakyamuni thangka with Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Back of the thangka. Click on image to enlarge.

Back of the thangka. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Shakyamuni Buddha accompanied by teachers, deities and protectors.

At the top centre is an unidentified teacher wearing monastic attire and a yellow pandita hat. At the lower left is the 13th Dalai Lama. On the lower right side is Lord Atisha. At the upper left side is Lerab Lingpa. White Vina Sarasvati is seated below. At the upper right side is Secret Accomplishment Hayagriva. Below that is red Kurukulla in a dancing posture.

At the middle left side is Pabongka Dechen Nyingpo and below that is Vajrayogini with the face looking forward following the special Pabongka oral tradition.

Lower in the composition on the left side is Tsongkhapa. On the right side is Padmasambhava. Along the bottom of the foreground is Dorje Shugden riding a snow lion and a figure similar in appearance to Tsiu Marpo. A donor figure sits in the corner holding upraised a mandala plate.

Inscription:

ཨོཾ་མུ་ནི་མུ་ནི་མ་ཧཱ་མུ་ནི་ཡེ་སྭ་ཧཱ། ཨོཾ་ཨཱ་ཧུཾ་གུ་རུ་པདྨ་སི་དྷི་ཧུཾ། ཨོཾ་ཨཱ་གུ་རུ་སུ་མ་ཏི་བྷ་དྲ་ཀིརྟི་ཧུཾ། ཨོཾ་པདྨ་ཤ་ས་ན་དྷ་ར་བཛྲ་སརྦ་སིདྷི་ཧུཾ། བསྐལ་མང་སྔོན་བཏབ་ཐུགས་བསྐྱེད་ས་བོན་གྲངས་མེད་ཚོགས་ཟུང་མ་མས་བསྐྱངས། འོག་མིན་ཆེན་པོར་མངོན་བྱང་ཆུབ་འབྲས་ཐེག་གསུམ་ཆོས་ཆར་འདོད་རྒུར་འཇོ། མི་མཇེད་ཟླ་བྲལ་ཤཱཀྱ་སེང་གེ་ལྷར་བཅས་གཙུག་ན་ཞབས་སེན་ཏོག། མངོན་འགོད་པདྨ་འདབ་མ་ཡངས་སྤྱན་འགྲོ་ལ་གཡོ་དེས་སྐྱོང་གྱུར་ཅིག།

“Nurtured by the countless sown seeds of bodhicita for many kalpas as a mother for an only child, in the great Akanishta with the fruition of enlightenment, with a wish for the rains of the three vehicles be granted, As Shakya Sengge along with the matchless deities, protecting those [worshipers].”

རྩ་ཅན་གྲོང་ན་གཟིམ་པའི་དེ་མ་ཐག། དྷ་ན་ཀོ་ཤ་པདྨའི་མཚོ་གླིང་དུ། རྫུས་འཁྲུངས་སྤྲུལ་སྐུའི་པདྨོའི་བཞིན་རས་ཅན། འཕུར་འགྲོའི་དྲྭ་བས་འཁྱུད་པ་ཁྱོད་གཅིག་རྒྱལ།

“Suddenly falling asleep in the town of Magadha, the lotus island of Dhanakosha, lotus-face miraculously born incarnation, the only victorious embraced by a net.”

རེས་འགའ་ཨོ་རྒྱན་མཁའ་འགྲོའི་གླིང་ན་རྩེ། སྐབས་འགར་འབོད་སྒྲོག་སྲིན་པོའི་མགོན་དུ་རྒྱུ། འདི་ན་བོད་ཆེན་ཙོང་ཁའི་ཡུལ་གྲུར་ཆེ། འཇམ་དབྱངས་མི་བརྫུར་རོལ་ཁྱོད་ཅི་མི་བསྔགས།

“Taking some time to reach the apex of Uddiyana, sometimes roaming as a master of the rakshasa; thereafter at Tsongka the great place of Tibet, [arose] the Manjushri manifestation in human form, how can I not praise to you.”

ཡི་དམ་མཁའ་འགྲོ་དམ་ཅན་དུ་མའི་གར། མང་ཞིག་ཟློས་ཀྱང་གང་ལས་བཀའ་དྲིན་གྱི། ཕུང་པོ་ལྕི་བར་ཐོབ་གྱུར་དགེ་བའི་བཤེས། ཉིད་ལས་གཞན་པའི་སྐྱབས་གཞན་གང་དུ་འཚོལ།

“Appearing as deity, daka and protector, by the grace of various forms, obtaining the weighty responsibility, spiritual friend you are the saviour, where else could I [possibly] find [you].”

འཇམ་རྒྱས་དབང་དང་དྲག་པོའི་འཕྲིན་ལས་བཞི། ཆོས་དོན་འདོད་ཐར་སྡེ་བཞིའི་སྒོ་གླེགས་ཅན། མཆོག་གི་རྒྱལ་ཐབས་ཆེན་པོའི་དཔུང་པ་ཆེ། ཡོན་གྱི་བདག་པོ་འདི་ལ་སྨིན་གྱུར་ཅིག།

“With the four activities of peaceful, increasing, powerful and wrathful; Dharma, meaning, desire and liberation are the door of the four classes of Buddhism, by the method of great force towards the supreme victory, may it ripen to this sponsor.”

ཅེས་པའང་གཞན་ཕན་སྣང་བས་སོ།

“So it is by Zhanpan Nangwa.”

ཨོཾ་སུ་པྲ་ཏིཥྛ་བཛྲ་ཡེ་སྭ་ཧཱ།

Jeff Watt & Karma Gellek 2-2017

Reverse of Painting

English Translation of Inscription: om muni muni maha muni svaha. om ah hum guru padma siddhi hum. om ah guru sumati kirti hum. om padma shasana dhara vajra sarva siddhi hum. om supra tishta vajraye svaha.

Special Features: (Cursive script (Umay), Printed script (Uchen), is black, includes “Om Ah Hum” inscription)

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/2200

 

4. Shakyamuni Buddha

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1900 – 1959
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Private

A gorgeous thangka of Buddha Shakyamuni with Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

A gorgeous thangka of Buddha Shakyamuni with Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

(Top row): Unknown lama, Manjushri, Chenrezig, Vajrapani, Heruka, Lama Tsongkhapa and his two heart sons, Guhyasamaja, Unknown lama, Yamantaka, Namgyalma, Amitayus and White Tara.

(Centre row): Maitreya, Buddha Shakyamuni and Dipamkara.

(Bottom row): Dorje Shugden, Kalarupa, Six-Armed Mahakala, Namtose and Damchen Garwa Nagpo.

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/4113

 

5. Dorje Shugden

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1900 – 1959
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Private

An old Dorje Shugden thangka. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Back of the thangka. Click on image to enlarge.

Dorje Shugden (English: the Vajra Possessing Strength): a minor Buddhist worldly protector originating in Tibet in the 17th century. In Dorje Shugden’s previous birth he is believed to have been the Gelugpa Lama Dragpa Gyaltsen (1619-1656) of Drepung Monastery, a contemporary and a rival to the Lama that was to become the Great Fifth Dalai Lama.

Maroon in colour with one face and two hands he holds in the right a sword and a long hook. In the left hand is a human heart held up to the mouth. He is very fierce with three staring eyes and a gaping mouth with the canine teeth exposed. On the chest he wears a decorative mirror marked with the Tibetan syllable ‘HRIH’. Richly attired in monastic robes and a golden yellow riding hat of Chinese origin, he is completely surrounded by orange and red flames. The mount is a mythical Tibetan snow lion, white with a green mane, fierce in appearance with a snarling face – gazing back.

At the top centre is an unidentified Gelug teacher wearing a yellow pandita hat and monastic robes. At the top left is White Chakrasamvara according to the system of Lama Umapa and Je Tsongkapa. At the top right is Brahmanarupa Mahakala.

Jeff Watt 4-2013

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/30961

 

6. Dorje Shugden

Origin Location: Mongolia
Date Range: 1960 –
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Private

A Mongolian thangka of Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

(Top row): Wangze (Pema Shugden), Amitabha and Trakze (Karma Shugden).

(Centre row): Dorje Shugden

(Bottom row): Gyenze (Ratna Shugden), Palden Lhamo and Shize (Vairocana Shugden).

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/53111

 

7. Dorje Shugden

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1900 – 1959
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Field Museum of Natural History

An old thangka of Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Dorje Shugden (English: the Vajra Possessing Strength): a minor Buddhist worldly protector originating in Tibet in the 17th century. In Dorje Shugden’s previous birth he is believed to have been the Gelugpa Lama Dragpa Gyaltsen (1619-1656) of Drepung Monastery, a contemporary and a rival to the Lama that was to become the Great Fifth Dalai Lama.

Whitish in colour with one face and two hands he holds in the right a curved sword with a vajra handle. In the left hand is a human heart. He is slightly fierce with three staring eyes and a gaping mouth with the canine teeth exposed. Richly attired in monastic robes, silk brocades, and a golden yellow riding hat of Chinese origin, he is completely surrounded by flames. The mount is a mythical Tibetan snow lion, white with a green-blue mane, fierce in appearance with a snarling face – gazing up at Dorje Shugden as an expression of respect.

At the top centre is Je Tsongkapa, founder of the Gelug Tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. At the right and left are the two principal students of Tsongkapa, Gyaltsab and Kedrubje. At the bottom of the composition are three Tibetan worldly protectors with Dorje Setrab on the viewer’s left, Tsi’u Marpo in the middle and then a white figure riding a white horse on the right.

This form of Dorje Shugden, of which there can be a number of different appearances, is the form typically found in Gelugpa art of the 20th century. In the Sakya Tradition of Tibetan Buddhism there is a form of Dorje Shugden called Tanag Chen (Shugden [riding] a Black Horse).

During the early decades of the last century Dorje Shugden became a subject of considerable controversy among the principal four Tibetan traditions of Buddhism, and namely the Gelug. The controversy still continues today. Within the Sakya Tradition there is no initiation or ‘life-entrusting‘ (Tibetan: srog gtad) ritual for Shugden as found in the Gelug Tradition. For the Sakyapa all forms of the practice fell into disfavour in the early part of the 20th century and are essentially non-existent outside of Tibet. Small temples in regional areas of Tibet historically connected with the indigenous local deity may still proffer offerings for the purpose of protection and removing obstacles.

Jeff Watt 2-2010

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/54349

 

8. Dorje Shugden

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1960 –
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Private

Dorje Shugden thangka.
Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Dorje Shugden Ku Nga (Five Bodies) accompanied by retinue figures based on the writings of the 20th century Gelug teacher Pabongka Dechen Nyingpo.

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/55018

 

9. Dorje Shugden

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1900 – 1959
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Private

A black and white print of Dorje Shugden.
Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Dorje Shugden with his retinue Kache Marpo (left) and Namkar Barzin (right).

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/58063

 

10. Dorje Shugden

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1960 –
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Private

A Dorje Shugden thangka. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

At the bottom centre is Yamshu Marpo the minister of Dorje Shugden. Yamshu Marpo is also the spirit brought forth during the Dorje Shugden oracle rituals.

Jeff Watt 2-2016

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/68898

 

11. Dorje Shugden

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1900 – 1959
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Collection: Garuda Virtual Museum

Dorje Shugden thangka. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Dorje Shugden and his retinue: Gyenze (upper left corner), Wangze (upper right corner), Shize (lower left corner) and Trakze (lower right corner). Surrounding Dorje Shugden are the Nine Mothers and below are the Eight Guiding Monks and the Ten Youthful and Wrathful Assistants.

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/81480

 

12. Dorje Shugden

Origin Location: Central Tibet
Date Range: 1900 – 1959
Size: 61×46.50cm (24.02×18.31in)
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Publication: Tibetan Painting, The Jucker Collection

An old thangka of Dorje Shugden, with Guru Rinpoche or Padmasambhava above him. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

(Top to bottom, left to right): Manjushri, Chenrezig, Vajrapani, Yamantaka, Guru Rinpoche, Yangsang Hayagriva, Amitayus, Dorje Shugden, White Tara, Tsangpa Karpo, Dorje Legpa, Namtose, Pehar Gyalpo (Nechung), Palden Lhamo, Six-Armed Mahakala, Namkar Barzin, Yuchashogchikma and Rahula.

Tibetan Paintings by Hugo E. Kreijger

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/89176

 

13. Dorje Shugden

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1900 – 1959
Lineages: Gelug
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art

An old thangka of Dorje Shugden.
Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Dorje Shugden (English: the Vajra Possessing Strength): worldly protector of the Gelugpa School.

Dark red in colour with one face and two hands he holds in the right a curved sword with a vajra handle. In the left hand is a human heart with a mongoose perched on the left forearm and a vajra hook leaning against the shoulder. He is very fierce with three red glaring eyes and a gaping mouth with the canine teeth exposed. Richly attired in monastic robes, silk brocades, and a yellow riding hat of Chinese origin, he is completely surrounded by orange flames. The mount is a mythical Tibetan snow lion, white with a green-blue mane, fierce in appearance with a snarling face – gazing up at Dorje Shugden as an expression of respect.

At the top centre is the primordial buddha Vajradhara, blue, with one face and two hands holding a vajra and bell. At the left is a Gelugpa lama wearing monastic robes and a yellow pandita hat. At the right is Green Tara with one face and two hands, holding a lotus in the left. At the bottom centre are three skullcups arranged with offerings of nectar, the five senses and blood.

Dorje Shugden is an avowed protector. In his former birth he is believed to have been the Gelugpa Lama Trakpa Gyaltsen of Drepung Monastery and a contemporary of the Great Fifth Dalai Lama.

Jeff Watt 6-1998

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/90554

 

14. Dorje Shugden

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1900 – 1959
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Museum der Kulturen, Basel

Dorje Shugden thangka. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Dorje Shugden Riding a Lion. At the top centre is Je Tsongkapa the founder of the Gelug Tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. At the left is white Vajrasattva. On the right is Sitatapatra holding a parasol. At the bottom centre is the Tsen spirit converted to the aid of Buddhism, Tsi’u Marpo, currently the principal protector of Samye Monastery in Tibet.

Jeff Watt 12-2010

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/3314591

 

15. Dorje Shugden

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1900 – 1959
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Yale University Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library

Dorje Shugden thangka.
Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Back of the thangka.
Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Dorje Shugden Five Forms according to the Tradition of Je Pabongka.

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/31714

16. Dorje Shugden

Origin Location: Tibet
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Private

Dorje Shugden Nathang. Click on image to enlarge.

Dorje Shugden Nathang. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

(Centre image): Dorje Shugden

(Clockwise): Lama Tsongkhapa, Wangze (Pema Shugden), Trakze (Karma Shugden), Tsiu Marpo, Shize (Vairocana Shugden) and Gyenze (Ratna Shugden).

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/36407

 

17. Dorje Shugden

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1800 – 1899
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Size: 68.58×49.53cm (27×19.50in)
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment, Fine Gold Line on Cotton
Collection: Rubin Museum of Art
Catalogue #: acc.# F1996.1.1

Dorje Shugden thangka. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Back of the thangka. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Dorje Shugden (English: the Vajra Possessing Strength): surrounded by a retinue of four emanations – a minor worldly protector.

Wrathful in appearance, maroon in colour, the Great King of Mind, with one face and two hands, has three eyes, a mustache and beard. Crowning the head a monk’s riding hat broad rimmed and yellow is decorated with a red ribbon. The right hand in a wrathful gesture holds upraised a stick marked with a jewel – ready to strike. The left holds to the heart a lasso with the ends flying to the side. Attired in the orange and yellow patchwork robes of a monk and blue brocade boots he sits in a relaxed posture above a sun disc and pink lotus blossom seat atop a human skin and snow lion supported throne. Inside a skeleton palace, placed on a dais constructed of bone against a backrest of corpse pillars and an arch of gold decorated with looped intestine, licks of orange and red flame curl upward. The roof is adorned with impaled corpses. The rafters are decorated with hanging skins, animal and human, looped entrails further adorn. Above the roof, four dragons appearing from behind the clouds send streaks of yellow lightning spewing from great gaping jaws and taloned claws.

Surrounded by four retinue figures, at the middle left is the Great Increasing King (Tibetan: gye pi gyal chen), yellow in colour, with one face and two hands holding a jewel in the right and a bowl in the left. Attired in regal garb, he rides a brown horse. Directly below is the Great Peaceful King (Tibetan: shi wi gyal chen), white in colour, peaceful, holding aloft an arrow in the right hand and a lasso in the left. Dressed in royal attire, he rides a white elephant.

At the middle right is the Great Powerful King (Tibetan: wang gi gyal chen), dark red, holding a hook and lasso. Royal in appearance with a crown and robes, he rides atop a green dragon. Directly below is the Great Wrathful King (Tibetan: drag po’i gyal chen), maroon in colour, fierce in appearance, holding upraised a curved sword in the right hand and a human heart extended to the side in the left. Surrounded by orange and red flames he rides atop a Garuda clutching a snake in the talons and beak.

Beneath the retinue deities within a walled enclosure of stretched dried skin adorned with skulls and looped intestine is a red pond with swirls and waves of blood interspersed with floating insects and reptilian forms. Hovering above the turbulent vitriol is a table of wrathful offerings. The centre skullcup holds the proffered substances of the five senses and to the right and left are blood and nectar. Beyond the enclosure, at the sides, tall trees host the flocks of black birds, messengers of the deity.

At the top centre a lama figure wears orange monastic robes with a red pandita hat lying flat atop the head. The right hand is held to the heart in a gesture of blessing and the left in the lap, seated on a cushion and lotus seat. At the left is Vajrayogini, a principal tutelary deity of the Mother Tantras, red, holding a curved knife and skullcup. At the right side is the protector Shadbhuja Mahakala, wrathful, black, with one face and six hands.

At the bottom right the King of the North and a god of wealth, Vaishravana, yellow in colour, holds a victory banner and a mongoose. In a relaxed posture he sits atop a snow lion, moon disc and pink lotus seat. At the bottom left is Sakya Gongma Ngagwang Kunga Tashi Thutob Tendzin of the Khon family. The right hand is extended to the side in a wrathful gesture and the left cradles a long-life vase in the lap. Attired in rich orange vestments he wears the Sakya religious hat, a pandita hat with the lappets draped across the top. Nestled in a meditation cloak on a cushioned seat against a blue backrest, above his head is the buddha of longevity Amitayus. In front a monk attendant stands before a table of ritual objects. Below that is the lay figure of Thabke Tashi, the patron and commissioner of the painting. Attired in orange brocade robes, holding a large vase with both hands, he sits above a cushioned seat. Two small figures wearing hats are located to the side next to a table overflowing with wishing jewels, red coral, gold, and precious objects. Arranged purposefully in front along the length of the foreground are large bolts of fabric topped with precious gifts. Above that, before the gatehouse to the palace, are seven bowls filled with rare delicacies. (The back of the painting has a lengthy inscription, praise to the Sakya Gongma [individual names not identifiable] and a long request of action and protection by Tabke Tashi. The intention is to avert harm and overcome obstacles).

Worldly protectors are typically indigenous Tibetan deities, mountain gods, daemons, spirits or ghosts that have been subjugated and sworn to loyally protect a monastery, geographic region or all of Buddhism in general. This form of Dorje Shugden is rare and was not typically worshiped in the town of Sakya. That specific form was Shugden Tanag Chen (Shugden [riding] a Black Horse). During the early decades of the last century Dorje Shugden became a subject of considerable controversy among the four Tibetan schools, namely the Gelugpa. The controversy still continues today. Also, within the Sakya School there is no initiation or ‘life-entrusting’ (Tibetan: srog gtad) ritual for Shugden as found in the Gelug School. That form of the deity (Shugden) typically appears riding a snow lion, holding a sword in the upraised right hand and a heart clutched to the breast in the left. For the Sakyapa all forms of the practice fell into disfavour over 6 decades ago and are essentially non-existent outside of Tibet. Small temples in regional areas of Tibet historically connected with the indigenous local deity may still proffer offerings for the purpose of protection and removing obstacles.

Jeff Watt 1-2000

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/393

 

18. Dorje Shugden

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1900 – 1959
Lineages: Sakya and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Private

Dorje Shugden Tanag. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Dorje Shugden mounted on a Black Horse. This form of Shugden follows the basic Sakya description except for the spear in the right hand and the lack of a skullcup in the left hand.

“In the middle of a whirling palace of black wind from … is the Great King with a body red-black in colour, one face two arms. The right [hand] holds a club aloft to the sky and the left a skullcup filled with blood and a human heart. On the head a Chinese hat is placed, riding a black horse, surrounded by inconceivable emanations…” (Sakya Kangso. Dagchen Kunga Lodro, 1729-1783).

Jeff Watt 9-2011

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/60614

 

19. Dorje Shugden

Origin Location: Mongolia
Date Range: 1900 – 1959
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts

Dorje Shugden tsakaley. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Dorje Shugden riding a lion.

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/50725

 

20. Gyenze (Ratna Shugden)

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1900 – 1959
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Collection: Private

A thangka of Gyenze (Ratna Shugden). Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Gyenze (Ratna Shugden) surrounded by the other retinue deities: Wangze (upper right corner), Shize (lower left corner) and Trakze (lower right corner).

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/55510

 

21. Gyenze (Ratna Shugden)

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1900 – 1959
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Collection: Private

Gyenze (Ratna Shugden) thangka. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Ratna Dorje Shugden (Gyenze) surrounded by his retinue.

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/36405

 

22. Trakze (Karma Shugden)

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1900 – 1959
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Collection: Private

Trakze thangka. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Karma Dorje Shugden (Trakze) surrounded by his retinue.

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/55511

 

23. Trakze (Karma Shugden)

Origin Location: Tibet
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Private

Trakze (Karma Shugden). Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Karma Dorje Shugden (Trakze) surrounded by his retinue.

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/36406

 

24. Heruka Body Mandala

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1960 –
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Collection: Private

Heruka Body Mandala with Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

A thangka of the Heruka body mandala including Dorje Shugden at the bottom right corner.

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/58854

 

25. Heruka Chakrasamvara

Lineages: Buddhist
Collection: Hahn Cultural Foundation

A thangka of Heruka Chakrasamvara and Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

An old thangka of Heruka Chakrasamvara with Lama Tsongkhapa above him and two other unknown Gelugpa lamas. Surrounding him are other enlightened deities and protectors, one of which is Dorje Shugden (bottom right corner).

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/98859

 

26. Nyingma Lama and Dorje Shugden

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1900 – 1959
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Collection: Private

Thangka of a Nyingma lama and Dorje Shugden

Interpretation / Description

A thangka of a Nyingma lama with Dorje Shugden located at the lower right corner.

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/55509

 

27. Mahakala Panjarnata

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1800 – 1899
Lineages: Sakya, Ngor (Sakya) and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Private

An old thangka of Mahakala Panjarnata (Lord of the Pavilion) and Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

A thangka of Mahakala Panjarnata (Lord of the Pavilion). Surrounding him are various deities and protectors, one of which is Dorje Shugden (lower right corner).

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/11564

 

28. Mahakala Panjarnata

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1700 – 1799
Lineages: Sakya and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment, Black Background on Cotton
Collection: Private

Mahakala Panjarnata (Lord of the Pavilion) and Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Mahakala, Vajra Panjarnata (Tibetan: dor je gur gyi gon po. English: the Great Black One, Lord of the Vajra Pavilion [or Canopy]): from the Vajra Panjara Tantra.

Fiercely wrathful, black in colour with one face, large round eyes, flaming yellow hair and two hands he holds a curved knife in the right and a skullcup in the left – both held to the heart. Resting across the forearms is a ‘gandhi’ stick from which all other forms of Mahakala emanate. Adorned with a crown of five dry skulls, bone ornaments and a necklace of fifty freshly severed heads he wears a lower garment of tiger skin. Atop a corpse, circular disc of the sun and multi-coloured lotus he stands surrounded by the flames of pristine awareness.

At the top centre is Akshobhya Buddha. On the left is Shri Hevajra and on the right Bhutadamara Vajrapani. At the middle left is Brahmanarupa Mahakala and on the right Shri Devi Dudsolma. At the bottom left is Shri Devi Magzor Gyalmo and on the right Dorje Shugden Tanag (Riding a Black Horse).

The translation of the description of Panjara Mahakala below is from the Rinchen Zangpo Tradition. It is identical to the description of the Vajrapanjara Tantra Mahakala except for the inclusion of the ‘gandhi’ stick.

“The Great Vajra Mahakala, blazing, with one face, two hands, in the right a curved knife and left a skullcup filled with blood, held above and below the heart. Held across the middle of the two arms is the ‘Gandhi of Emanation;’ with three eyes, bared fangs, yellow hair flowing upward, a crown of five dry human skulls and a necklace of fifty fresh, blood-dripping. [He is] adorned with six bone ornaments and snakes, with a lower garment of tiger skin, flowing with pennants and streamers of various silks; dwarfish and thick, in a posture standing above a corpse.” (Konchog Lhundrub, 1497-1557).

The general features that describe and define Panjarnata are the single face and two arms. The pair of hands hold a curved knife in the right and a skull cup in the left. Both hands are held to the heart with the right hand slightly above the skull cup. Panjara may or may not also have a ‘gandhi’ stick across the forearms. His body is short and squat with the legs bowed. He is also described as being a dwarf with short thick arms and legs. He typically stands atop a human corpse having an orange or yellow colour. All of the other characteristics of Panjarnata are identical with the general characteristics of the Mahakala class of deities.

Panjaranatha Mahakala arises from the Panjara (Pavilion, or canopy) Tantra for which he is the protector and guardian. This Tantra belongs to the Hevajra Cycle of Tantras and classified as Non-dual Anuttarayoga. The method of painting is ‘nag thang,’ black scroll – gold outline on a black background with a lack of superfluous ornamentation and landscape.

Jeff Watt 7-2012

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/60679

 

29. Five Foremost Deities – Mo Lha

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1700 – 1799
Lineages: Sakya and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Private

A thangka of Mo Lha, the Five Foremost Deities and Dorje Shugde. Click on image to enlarge.

A thangka of Mo Lha, the Five Foremost Deities and Dorje Shugden Tanag. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Another version of the same thangka. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

(Top to bottom): The 32nd Sakya Trizin Wangdu Nyingpo, Padmasambhava, Teacher (unidentified), Po Lha, Mo Lha, Yul Lha, Srog Lha, Dra Lha, Tashi Tseringma and sisters, Magzor Gyalmor, Dudsolma (Shri Devi), Dorje Yudronma and Dorje Shugden Tanag (Riding a Black Horse).

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/19057

 

30. Wangdu Nyingpo, Sakya Tridzin 32

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1800 – 1899
Lineages: Sakya
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Private

The 32nd Sakya Trizin Wangdu Nyingpo and Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

The 32nd Sakya Trizin Wangdu Nyingpo and Dorje Shugden Tanag. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Wangdu Nyingpo, Thuchen (c.1763-c.1806): Patriarch of the Khon Family, the 32nd Sakya Trizin, the second Padmasambhava of this Age and a renowned Terton (finder of Revealed Treasure), surrounded by tutelary deities and the figures of previous lives.

Gazing with wide open eyes and a slight smile Wangdu Nyingpo extends the right arm and holds a gold vajra scepter. In the left hand a vajra handled bell is held up to the heart. In the typical appearance of a Sakya Tridzin he wears his hair long with a copy of the Hevajra Tantra text adorning the crown. White earrings of bone are common for depictions of Wangdu Nyingpo and he wears a lower garment of white cloth. A red sash holds in place a sorcers horn and a three sided peg associated with the deity Vajrakila.

“To the Buddhas of the three times as the second Oddiyana. Protector with all gathered power over the animate and inanimate. Subduer of wrong doers, possessing the essence of the path entwined as the great bliss of the four joys together with wisdom, compassion and power. I pray, pacify obstacles of daemons and bhutas, and bestow the blessing of attainments – making aspirations spontaneous.” (Dragshul Trinle Rinchen, 1871-1935).

Depicted at the top of the painting are the principal meditational deities special to Wangdu Nyingpo. At the top left are Chakrasamvara, Vajrayogini and Hevajra. At the top right are Vajrakila, Hayagriva and Vajrapani. At the middle left is Shmashana Adhipati, the two dancing skeletons, and on the right is Dorje Shugden Tanag, riding a black horse. At the bottom centre is Panjarnata Mahakala with Brahmarupa Mahakala on the left and Shri Devi Dudsolma on the right. The gold background of the composition is filled with small depictions of the Buddha of long life Amitayus.

Jeff Watt 10-2002

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/77218

 

31. Shri Devi – Magzor Gyalmo (Palden Lhamo)

Origin Location: China
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Private

Palden Lhamo and Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

A thangka of Shri Devi Magzor Gyalmo (Palden Lhamo) with the protectors Setrap, Dorje Drakden and Dorje Shugden (lower right corner).

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/55015

 

32. Magzor Gyalmo (Palden Lhamo)

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1900 – 1959
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Rubin Museum of Art

Palden Lhamo and Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Back of the thangka. Click on image to enlarge.

Shri Devi, Dudmo Remati belonging to the larger class of enlightened protector deities known as Shri Devi, surrounded by protector deities of the Sera Monastery of the Gelugpa Tradition.

At the top centre is Amitayus, the buddha of long-life with an Indian mahasiddha and Tibetan teacher seated at the sides. On the viewer’s left is Lama Tsongkapa and Padmasambhava on the right. Descending on the left is Vajrakila, Shri Devi Dudsolma, Tshangpa, a red worldly protector riding a horse and blue Damchen Garwa Nagpo immediately to the side.

On the right side is Kurukulla, Lakshmi (Pal Lhamo), Dorje Yudonma and Dorje Shugden. At the bottom centre is Chaturmukha Mahakala.

Jeff Watt 10-2007

Reverse of Painting

Special Features: (Cursive script (Umay), includes “Om Ah Hum” inscription)

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/65793

 

33. Mahakala Shadbhuja (Six-Armed Mahakala)

Date Range: 1700 – 1799
Lineages: Sakya
Size: 73.66×53.98cm (29×21.25in)
Material: Fine Gold Line, Black Background on Cotton
Collection: Rubin Museum of Art
Catalogue #: acc.# P1996.11.1

Six-Armed Mahakala and Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

Six-Armed Mahakala and Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Shadbhuja Mahakala (Tibetan: nag po chen po chag drug pa. English: the Great Black One with Six Hands), wrathful emanation of Avalokiteshvara.

With one face and six hands, the first pair of hands hold a curved knife and skullcup held to the heart, the second pair a human skull garland, trident and an upraised elephant skin, the lower pair hold a damaru drum and lasso. Adorned with a crown, bone and jewel ornaments and a necklace of fifty heads he stands with the right leg bent and left extended atop the body of an elephant headed figure, above a sun disc and lotus seat, completely surrounded by the fires of pristine awareness.

At the top centre are two lamas performing the ‘Dharma Teaching’ mudra (gesture), wearing monastic robes and red pandita hats. At the left is the mahasiddha Shavaripa, holding a skullcup. At the right corner is Begtse Chen, red in colour, with the consort and son immediately below – the ‘Goddess of Life’ riding a bear and the ‘Lord of Life’ riding a wolf. At the left corner is the wealth deity ‘Wish-fulfilling’ White Mahakala, with one face and six hands, in a standing posture. Below is Mahakala ‘Gonpo Legden’ holding an upraised stick in the right hand and a skull in the left. At the right is Panjara Mahakala holding a curved knife and skullcup, supporting a stick across the forearms, in an unusual stance with the right leg bent

Below those are black Jinamitra, red Takkiraja and Kshetrapala riding a bear. At the middle right is Trakshe, ‘The Lord of Daemons,’ riding a black horse, and below is Shri Devi (Tib.: pal den lha mo) riding a mule; all have one face and two hands. These five belong to the inner retinue of Shadbhuja Mahakala.

Directly below the central figure is Chaturmukha Mahakala (Tib.: gon po shal shi pa. Eng.: Four-faced Great Black One) the wrathful form of Brahmarupa, with four faces and four hands, surrounded by a retinue of four naked dakinis. At the bottom centre is a dancing Brahmarupa with one face and two hands.

At the bottom left is Damchen Garwa’i Nagpo holding a hammer in the right hand and riding a brown goat. Next is Kartaridhara Mahakala. At the bottom right is the ‘Gyalpo Sum’ (Three Kings) of the Sakya School. The upper figure is Tsi’u Marpo the protector of ‘Samye Chokor Ling.’ Beneath him is Dorje Setrap and slightly to the left is Dorje Shugden wearing a gold monastic riding hat, holding a vajra in the right hand and a gold vase in the left; riding a black horse. All are mounted on horseback.

The subject of the painting is the protector Shadbhuja Mahakala along with various forms of Mahakala. The Gyalpo Sum and Damchen Nagpo are worldly deities. The iconography indicates that the painting belongs to the Sakya School, however the irregularities in the forms would more precisely suggest a sub-school such as Tsar or Bulug (Shalu).

The painting style is called ‘black scroll’ (nag thang). The background is black and the deities are drawn as an outline, often in gold, with more or less colour and detail added at the discretion of the artist. This style of painting is generally reserved for wrathful deities.

Jeff Watt 5-98

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/252

 

34. Vajrabhairava (Solitary Yamantaka)

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1900 – 1959
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Private

Solitary Yamantaka and Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

Solitary Yamantaka and Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Vajrabhairava, Ekavira (solitary). At the top centre is Tsongkapa.

At the middle left of the composition is a yogi figure and cemetery scene. At the middle right is the protector deity Dorje Shugden.

At the bottom centre is Shadbhuja Mahakala. On the left side is ‘Outer’ Yama Dharmaraja. On the right side is Shri Devi Magzor Gyalmo.

Jeff Watt 2-2016

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/13106

 

35. Lama Tsongkhapa

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1800 – 1899
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Private

Lama Tsongkhapa and Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

A thangka of Khedrub Je’s Five Visions of Lama Tsongkhapa. Dorje Shugden is included at the bottom right. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Lord Tsongkapa, Lobzang Dragpa (1357-1419): founder of the Gelugpa School, emanating from the heart of the bodhisattva Maitreya.

“From the heart of the Lord of the hundred gods of Tushita, on the peak of a cloud, bright white like a mound of fresh yogurt, Lord of Dharma, Omniscient Lobzang Dragpa, together with sons; please come here.” (Gelugpa liturgical verse).

Back of the thangka. Click on image to enlarge.

Back of the thangka. Click on image to enlarge.

In the appearance of a monastic scholar with a yellow pandita hat and the orange patchwork robes of a fully ordained monk he performs with both hands the mudra of Dharma teaching at the heart while holding the stems of two lotus flowers blossoming at both ears supporting on the right a wisdom sword and at the left a book. With the two legs folded in vajra posture he sits upon a moon disc and lotus seat surrounded by an ornate gold nimbus of wishing jewels and a rainbow sphere. At the front, to the right and left of a begging bowl, sit the two close disciples of Je Rinpoche, Gyaltsap Dharma Rinchen (1364-1432) and Kedrup Geleg Pal Zangpo (1385-1438). Both wear monastic robes and yellow hats each holding a book in the left hand while the right hands assume postures of explication of the teachings. Emanating from the heart of the bodhisattva Maitreya, dwelling in the Tushita heaven above, all three are seated atop a great white bank of billowing clouds.

At the bottom left side is the protector deity ‘Outer’ Yama Dharmaraja standing atop a buffalo. At the bottom right side is Dorje Shugden riding atop a white snow lion.

Inscription:

“om ah guru vajradhara sumati kirti siddhi hum hum.”

“The sole combined form of the compassion of all conquerors,
The worship object of all conquerors,
The only source of all conquerors;
May all the conquerors bestow blessings.
Especially bestow the vast expanse conqueror – the single father.
The sound of the [Dharma] drum fills all the realm,
This holy supreme realm of Jamgon Lama;
Please [come and] sit on the crown of my head.
… Finally, may I be born in this supreme realm.”
Sarva mangalam.”

Jeff Watt & Karma Gellek 2-2017

Reverse of Painting

Special Features: (includes “Om Ah Hum” inscription)

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/2191

 

36. Lama Tsongkhapa

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1900 – 1959
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Size: 71.12×48.26cm (28x19in)
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: Rubin Museum of Art

Lama Tsongkhapa and Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Lama Tsongkapa (1357-1419): founder of the Gelugpa School, with the two principal students, Gyaltsab on the left and Khedrup on the right.

In the appearance of a monastic scholar with a yellow pandita hat and the orange patchwork robes of a fully ordained monk he performs with both hands the gesture of Dharma teaching at the heart while holding the stems of two lotus flowers blossoming at both ears supporting on the right a wisdom sword and at the left a book. With the two legs folded in vajra posture he sits upon a moon disc and multi-coloured lotus seat surrounded by a blue nimbus. At the front, to the right and left, sit the two close disciples of Je Rinpoche, Gyaltsap Dharma Rinchen (1364-1432) and Kedrup Geleg Pal Zangpo (1385-1438). Both wear monastic robes and yellow hats.

“From the heart of the Lord of the hundred gods of Tushita, on the peak of a cloud, bright white like a mound of fresh yogurt, Lord of Dharma, Omniscient Lobzang Dragpa, together with sons; please come here.” (Gelugpa liturgical verse).

At the top centre is the blue primordial Buddha Vajradhara with Shakyamuni Buddha on his right and blue Medicine Guru Buddha on the left. Again at the right and left are ‘Very Secret’ Hayagriva, red, with three faces and six hands and blue Vajrapani in his wrathful appearance.

At the left side is Yama Dharmaraja, blue in colour, standing atop a buffalo. At the right is Vaishravana, guardian king of the north, riding a lion.

At the bottom of the composition from the viewers left to right are the special protectors of Sera Monastery: Dorje Ta’og, unidentified, Dorje Shugden and Karma Shar Chatri Chenchig.

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/65802

 

37. Lama Tsongkhapa

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1900 – 1959
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Material: Ground Mineral Pigment on Cotton
Collection: John & Karina Stewart

Lama Tsongkhapa and Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

Khedrub Je’s Five Visions of Lama Tsongkhapa. Dorje Shugden is included in the thangka at the lower right corner. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

An old thangka depicting Khedrub Je’s five direct visions of his teacher, Lama Tsongkhapa – as a monk on a white elephant, as a vibrant sixteen-year-old youth on a throne supported by youthful gods and goddesses, as the Bodhisattva Manjushri on a snow lion, as a Yogi on a tiger and as a monk blazing with light floating on clouds. Also depicted are various deities including Dorje Shugden at the bottom right corner.

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/48253

 

38. Lama Tsongkhapa

Origin Location: Tibet
Date Range: 1800 – 1899
Lineages: Gelug and Buddhist
Collection: Private

Lama Tsongkhapa and Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

Lama Tsongkhapa and Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Lama Tsongkapa (1357-1419): founder of the Gelugpa School, with the two principal students, Gyaltsab on the left and Khedrup on the right.

In the appearance of a monastic scholar with a yellow pandita hat and the orange patchwork robes of a fully ordained monk he performs with both hands the gesture of Dharma teaching at the heart while holding the stems of two white flowers blossoming at both ears supporting on the right a wisdom sword and at the left a book. With the two legs folded in vajra posture he sits upon a moon disc and multi-coloured lotus seat above a lion supported throne. At the front, to the right and left, sit the two close disciples of Je Rinpoche, Gyaltsap Dharma Rinchen (1364-1432) and Kedrup Geleg Pal Zangpo (1385-1438). Both wear orange and red monastic robes and yellow hats.

“From the heart of the Lord of the hundred gods of Tushita, on the peak of a cloud, bright white like a mound of fresh yogurt, Lord of Dharma, Omniscient Lobzang Dragpa, together with sons; please come here.” (Gelugpa liturgical verse).

At the top centre is Maitreya, the future Buddha, with Atisha seated on the proper right side and Tsongkapa on the left. In the left and right corners are wrathful Krodha Vajrapani and Vignantaka, both blue in colour, holding a vajra scepter.

At the bottom left side is ‘Outer’ Yama Dharmaraja, blue in colour, standing atop a buffalo. At the right side is Dorje Shugden, the controversial Gelug protector deity, riding a lion, wearing monastic clothes and surrounded by flames. Seated in front is a donor figure in a kneeling posture holding a mandala offering plate.

Jeff Watt 2-2016

Source: https://www.himalayanart.org/items/24083

 

39. Sakya Pandita Kunga Gyaltsen

An old thangka of Sakya Pandita and Dorje Shugden Tanag. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

An old thangka of Sakya Pandita Kunga Gyaltsen, with Dorje Shugden Tanag (riding on a black horse) located at the bottom right corner. This form of Dorje Shugden follows the basic Sakya description except for the spear in the right hand.

 

40. Vajrabhairava (Yamantaka)

An old thangka of Yamantaka as the main deity. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Yamantaka with Dorje Shugden at the bottom right corner.

 

41. Vajrabhairava (Yamantaka)

A thangka of Yamantaka and Dorje Shugden. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

Yamantaka (Vajrabhairava) with Buddha Shakyamuni, Lama Tsongkhapa and the Mahasiddha Lalitavajra above him, and the Dharma Protectors Palden Lhamo, Kalarupa and Dorje Shugden below him.

 

42. Dorje Drolo

A thangka of Dorje Drolo (central figure) and Dorje Shugden Tanag (bottom right). Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated image. Click on image to enlarge.

Annotated version. Click on image to enlarge.

Interpretation / Description

An 18th century thangka depicting Dorje Drolo, the wrathful manifestation of Padmasambhava (also known as Guru Rinpoche). Note the protector Dorje Shugden Tanag (Dorje Shugden riding a black horse) in the bottom right of the composition.

Dorje Drolo, the wrathful emanation of Padmasambhava, is most often associated with the set of Eight Main Manifestations and the life story of Padmasambhava. He also functions as a guru yoga practice/meditational deity with at least 14 different ‘terma’ traditions.

For the purpose of subduing demons and spirits of Tibet and the surrounding Himalayan regions, Padmasambhava at the 13 mountain retreats each known as the Tiger’s Den (tagtsang), appeared as the wrathful Dorje Drolo. At many of these locations it is believed that Padmasambhava left impressions of his feet in the rocks. The Eight Manifestations of Padmasambhava belong to the Revealed Treasures (Tib.: ter ma) classification of teachings according to the Nyingma Tradition of Tibetan Buddhism.

 

For more interesting information:

 

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

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

30 Responses to Beautiful ancient Tibetan art to share with you

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

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

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

  1. Samfoonheei on Jun 27, 2023 at 1:33 pm

    Historically, thangkas were used as teaching aids in meditation, or a spiritually significant event from the life of a Buddhist master. Rare antique Tibetan Buddhism Buddhist thangka and traditional art of thangka painting is well preserved to this day.
    Feeling so blessed and fortunate able to see these beautiful rare and precious ancient thangkas in this blog. All are printed centuries ago and it cannot be wrong in their judgements of the Dorje Shugden origin. Just looking at those old thangkas had proven that Dorje Shugden been practised centuries ago. Many Tibetan Buddhist traditions had relied on Dorje Shugden as Dharma Protector and is not evil spirits as claimed.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

  2. Samfoonheei on Sep 26, 2021 at 1:48 pm

    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing of beautiful ancient thangkas. It’s a rare opportunity to see all these ancient Tibetan thangkas of various Buddhas. These rare ancient thangkas range from very simple early Indian sculptures of the Buddha and Dharma Protectors. Many images of Dorje Shugden were found in those ancient thangkas and has been relied upon by all sects of Tibetan Buddhism. All traditions and schools of Buddhism had propitiate Dorje Shugden centuries ago. Looking at those ancient thangkas tells a thousand words. Merely by looking at it is a blessing.

  3. Mingmar @NamoBuddha thangka arts on Oct 6, 2020 at 7:47 pm

    Can’t thank enough for sharing such ancient thangka paintings. I feel such a blessed person to have seen these very rare ancient Tibetan arts. Such a powerful art.

  4. Samfoonheei on Jul 8, 2020 at 2:50 pm

    Beautiful rare and precious ancient thangkas . We are fortunate to have such an opportunity to see all the rare thangkas of Dorje Shugden , Sakya Pandita Kunga Gyaltsen, Five Foremost Deities – Mo Lha and so forth. They are all centuries old thangkas . Incredible all are private collections as well as from Rubin Museum of Art which been printed centuries ago. Merely by looking at it is a blessing and paints a thousand words.All these rare centuries thangkas has proven that the Tibetan Leadership is wrong in their judgements of the Dorje Shugden origin. It is visual proof that Dorje Shugden was practised by the other Tibetan Buddhist traditions as well and is not evil spirits.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this wonderful sharing.

  5. Samfoonheei on Jun 26, 2019 at 2:15 pm

    Wow….fortunate to see ancient thangkas of various deities together with Dorje Shugden. Such a huge collection of ancient Tibetan thangkas from all the different traditions such as Gelug, Nyingma, Sakya and Kagyu been printed centuries ago before the Dorje Shugden ban has proven that great masters and practitioners has been relying on Dorje Shugden as they saw the huge benefits. It has proven that Dorje shugden been practised decades ago. These are the many evidence that Dorje Shugden is not an evil as it has been practised by other Tibetan Buddhist traditions as well.
    We are very blessed and fortunate to have our Guru sharing with us this huge collection of ancient Tibetan thangkas. They were indeed rare and precious ancient thangkas. Each of these thangkas paints a story behind it.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

  6. Valentina Suhendra on Dec 10, 2018 at 3:07 pm

    Mantras are sacred verbalized words that invoke the protection and blessings of the deity to whom the mantra is ascribed. Mantras are also the manifestations of Buddhas in the form of ‘sounds’, hence the various mantras of Dorje Shugden contain the essence of the Protector.

    Dorje Shugden’s main mantra 多杰雄登主要咒语
    OM BENZA WIKI BITANA SOHA

    Dorje Shugden’s mantra for peace 平和咒语
    For gaining attainments through the energy of Peaceful Shugden, peace of environment and mind, harmony in one’s abode and dwelling area, and calming of disasters
    OM BENZA WIKI BITANA SHANTI SIDDHI HUNG

    Dorje Shugden’s mantra for health 福寿安康咒语
    For long life, increasing life, healing of disease and protection from diseases
    OM BENZA WIKI BITANA AYU SIDDHI HUNG

    Dorje Shugden’s mantra for increase 增长咒语
    For gaining great merits and increase of all necessary needs, both material and spiritual
    OM BENZA WIKI BITANA PUNYE SIDDHI HUNG

    Dorje Shugden’s mantra for control 控制咒语
    Of worldly deities, negative people and nagas and for influencing friends towards the positive
    OM BENZA WIKI BITANA WASHAM KURU HO

    Dorje Shugden’s mantra to grant protection 庇护咒语
    Visualize that you are in the Protector’s mandala, fully protected from outside interferences. Recite when in danger or for dangerous situations, for protection while travelling or when residing in dangerous/hostile places
    OM BENZA WIKI BITANA RAKYA RAKYA HUNG

    https://video.tsemtulku.com/videouploads/comment-1544345059.mp4


  7. Tsem Rinpoche on Nov 26, 2018 at 12:53 pm

    Dear friends,

    Tibet has produced many powerful meditations, rituals and guidelines to help us gain spiritual protection, gain wisdom and higher states of consciousness. In general Tibet has produced many powerful methods for the growth of our spiritual evolution. Dorje Shugden is an angel, a saint, a powerful spiritual protector-warrior who originated 350 years ago when a highly awakened Tibetan Lama fulfilled his vows to become a special being to grant protection, wisdom, material needs, safety when travelling (normal and astral travel) and spiritual awakening. Both the Great 5th Dalai Lama and the current His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama composed short yet effective prayers to invoke upon the power and blessings of this special saint and protector. One can recite either one of the prayers that you feel suits you, anytime or even daily. When you feel a special need for help, you can recite either prayer anytime. When you are feeling down, afraid or just need a blessing, you can recite them. After reciting either invocation, it is good to chant the mantra of Dorje Shugden: Om Benza Wiki Bitana Soha.

    You do not have to be a Buddhist or practitioner of any religion to invoke upon the blessings and protection of this special enlightened and awakened angel Dorje Shugden. He helps all without discrimination or bias as he is filled with compassion and love. Divinity has no boundaries, they help all who call upon them.

    Enclosed are the prayers in English, Chinese and Tibetan.

    May you be safe, protected and blessed.

    Tsem Rinpoche

    More on the Great 5th Dalai Lama and Dorje Shugden – https://bit.ly/2w7KHv6

    More on H.H. the 14th Dalai Lama and Dorje Shugden – https://bit.ly/2QdaL4n

    Chapel (Trode Khangsar) built by the Great 5th Dalai Lama dedicated to Dorje Shugden in Lhasa – https://bit.ly/2zBTd8M

    亲爱的朋友们,

    西藏产生了许多有助于我们得到精神庇佑、取得智慧和更高层次之觉悟的强大禅修法、仪式和教诲。总括来说,西藏产生了许多有助于我们在修行上取得提升的强有力方法。多杰雄登是一个天使,一位圣人和一名护法战士。他的崛起始于350年前,当一位高度觉悟的西藏高僧履行本身的承诺,化身为特别的护法,赐予我们守护、智慧、物质需要、出入平安(平日外游和神游时)和灵修上的觉醒。任何人都可以随时随地在任何时候念诵适合自己的祈愿文。当你需要特别的帮助时,你可以随时念诵任何一篇祈愿文。当你感到沮丧、恐惧或仅是需要加持时,你也可以持诵这些祈愿文。在念诵任何祈请文后,你应该接着念诵多杰雄登的心咒:嗡 班杂 维格 毗札那 娑哈 Om Benza Wiki Bitana Soha。

    要祈请多杰雄登这位特殊、觉悟和觉醒的天使赐予加持和庇佑,你无需是佛教徒或任何宗教的修行者。他总是没有分别或偏见,充满慈悲和慈爱地帮助一切众生。神圣是没有界限的,圣者会帮助有求于他的任何人。

    以下附上英文、中文和藏文的祈愿文。

    愿你平安,常受庇护和加持。

    尊贵的詹杜固仁波切

    更多关于第五世达赖尊者和多杰雄登护法的内容 — https://bit.ly/2zsC3tG

    更多关于第十四世达赖尊者和多杰雄登护法的内容 — https://bit.ly/2r4aaDN

    第五世达赖尊者为多杰雄登护法在拉萨建造的护法殿(布旦康萨)— https://bit.ly/2zBTd8M

  8. Pastor Niral Patel on Nov 25, 2018 at 5:34 am

    “The 4th Zhabdrung Rinpoche of Bhutan and Dorje Shugden” blog post which was published June 8, 2018 already has exactly at the moment 152,744 views!! Over 150k views!!! Amazing!! The views will keep growing as time elapses of course.

    This indicates many Bhutanse and Buddhists around the world will now know that Dorje Shugden is connected to Bhutan and their Kagyu Lineage. Dorje Shugden was promoted by the highest lama of Bhutan namely the 4th Zhabdrung Rinpoche himself. So Dorje Shugden will help and protect anyone and is not sectarian as they accuse him to be. People in the Kagyu school of Buddhism also practised Dorje Shugden and Dorje Shugden assisted them lovingly. Dorje Shugden being an emanation of Manjushri will help anyone who calls upon him regardless of their background and religion.

    Good job to our writers, researchers, editors, technical team, supporting team and Kechara people who promoted this blog post on social media. Now more will come to understand how pervasive Dorje Shugden is in all the lineages of Tibetan Buddhism although the Tibetan leadership in-exile tries to hide this truth. Thank you everyone for promoting Dorje Shugden to benefit many. We were all very harmonious before the unethical ban against Dorje Shugden practitioners. Since the inception of the ban in 1996, there has been no benefits and instead so much disharmony among Tibetan Buddhists around the world. Many hundreds have spoken up about this point where we want harmony back. There should never be a ban against any spiritual practice.

    Tsem Rinpoche

    Blog post- https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=160863

    于2018年6月8日发表的《不丹国第四世夏仲仁波切与多杰雄登》的博文至今已经有 152,744次的浏览量!!也就是超过了15万次的浏览量!!这个数字肯定还会随着时间而增长。

    这表示很多不丹人和全世界的佛教徒现在已经知道了多杰雄登和不丹以及他们的噶举派传承是有紧密联系的。多杰雄登是被不丹的最高级别的喇嘛夏仲仁波切本身所推崇的。这显示了多杰雄登是会帮助和保护任何人的,而祂不是像他人所指控那样的充满宗派主义。佛教的噶举派的修行者也修持多杰雄登,而多杰雄登也很怀爱地帮助他们。多杰雄登是文殊菩萨的化身,祂将无视任何宗教和背景地去帮助任何召唤祈请祂的人们。

    我们的写作、搜集资料,编辑、技术、辅助等的人员们和推广这篇博文的克切拉人们,你们做得好!虽然流亡藏人领袖们尝试掩盖事实,但现在更多的人将了解到多杰雄登在所有藏传佛教的传承中是多么的普及了。感谢大家努力推广多杰雄登以造福大众。在这个不道德的多杰雄登禁令出现之前,我们都是很和谐融洽的。自从禁令在1996年开始之后,它为全世界的藏传佛教徒没有带来任何利益,而只有更多的不和谐。成千上万的人已经对该禁令发声,要求重建和谐。对于任何心灵修行,是从来就不该有任何禁令的。

    詹杜固仁波切

    博文网址: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/l/cn/dorje-shugden/the-4th-zhabdrung-rinpoche-of-bhutan-and-dorje-shugden-cn.html

    Zhabdrung

  9. Beatrix Ooi on Nov 25, 2018 at 1:37 am

    His Eminence Kyabje Dagom Rinpoche’s incarnation is in Lhasa visiting. He is visiting the 350-year-old Trode Khangsar chapel dedicated to Dorje Shugden. He is paying homage to the powerful statue of Dorje Shugden housed in this sacred chapel. Both the chapel and statue of Dorje Shugden were commissioned by His Holiness the 5th Dalai Lama. The Great 5th Dalai Lama also composed a prayer to be recited daily to Dorje Shugden.

    Dagom Rinpoche’s previous lives were great masters, scholars and practitioners of Dorje Shugden. Now this new incarnation of Dagom Rinpoche is offering gold on the face of Dorje Shugden in homage and worship to this very sacred statue of Dorje Shugden housed in Lhasa for the last 350 years. This is a very traditional Tibetan method of paying homage to holy images, which is by offering gold with prayers.

    The Tibetan leadership wrongly says if you practise Dorje Shugden you will take rebirth into the three lower realms. Hundreds of lamas from the Sakya, Kagyu and Gelugpa schools of Buddhism have practised Dorje Shugden and their incarnations returned. Many of the incarnations are recognised by His Holiness the Dalai Lama himself. So this shows if you practise Dorje Shugden, only benefits come and no harm will come. The very fact Dagom Rinpoche’s incarnation is back, is clear evidence that Dorje Shugden’s practice is beneficial.

    May Dagom Rinpoche’s current incarnation live a very long life.

    Tsem Rinpoche
    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com

    YouTube High resolution video:
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=THbGknXcLbo

    Trode Khangsar – A 400 year old Dorje Shugden Chapel in Lhasa:
    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=92148[/color]

    _____

    尊贵的扎贡仁波切的现任转世正在拜访拉萨。他拜访了一座供奉给多杰雄登并且拥有350年历史的护法殿”布旦康萨”。他在向这座神圣护法殿里的强大多杰雄登像顶礼。该座护法殿和多杰雄登圣像是由第五世达赖喇嘛指示而造的。伟大的第五世达赖喇嘛也亲笔撰写了多杰雄登的每日祈愿文。

    扎贡仁波切的前几世都是伟大的上师,学者兼多杰雄登的修持者。现在扎贡仁波切的现任转世在为这尊已经安奉在拉萨350年并且非常神圣的多杰雄登圣像的脸上供养金漆,以示顶礼和膜拜。这种供养金并祈愿的做法是西藏为圣像顶礼非常传统的做法。

    流亡藏人领袖们说如果你修持多杰雄登就将投生三恶道,那是错误的。佛教派系——萨迦派、噶举派、格鲁派的上百名喇嘛们都修持了多杰雄登,而且他们也都转世回来了,而其中有很多转世还是达赖喇嘛亲自认证的。这明显显示了如果你修持多杰雄登,是百利无一弊的。扎贡仁波切转世回来了,就已经是很确凿的证据显示多杰雄登的修持是有利的。

    愿今世的扎贡仁波切健康长寿。

    詹杜固仁波切
    blog.sina.com.cn/zhandugu

    YouTube高清视频- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=THbGknXcLbo

    拉萨400年历史的多杰雄登护法殿—布旦康萨- https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=92148


  10. Tsem Rinpoche on Nov 23, 2018 at 4:32 am

    Divination (‘mo’) Text by Dorje Shugden

    This is an important divination (‘mo’) text composed by Dorje Shugden himself. Dorje Shugden took trance of the Choyang Dulzin oracle lama, the senior oracle of Gaden Shartse Monastery, and instantly on the spot composed this text within two hours.

    The divination text contains information on how to use dice to do divination for the future and is known to be highly accurate. When practitioners use this text, they will be in direct contact with Dorje Shugden to get answers to questions about the future. It is for those who have good samaya with Dorje Shugden and are free of the eight worldly dharmas to be of benefit to others in divining the future.

    Tsem Rinpoche

    DS-MO-choyang.pdf

  11. Tsem Rinpoche on Nov 20, 2018 at 12:51 pm

    The Library of Tibetan Works and Archives is in Dharamsala, which is broken into two parts. Upper Dharamsala is where the Dalai Lama’s palace is located with his audience room and main prayer hall. It is also the location of the Dialectics School, Gaden Shartse’s guesthouse, restaurants, tourist hotels and main tourist areas.

    A short ride down takes you to the lower part of Dharamsala where the Tibetan government is located. It is the location of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile, Nechung monastery, the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, the Tibetan arts centre…it’s all in one area. And the reason why it’s split into upper and lower Dharamsala is because the area is mountainous.

    The Library of Tibetan Works and Archives was established by the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government to preserve all the ancient texts – both secular and spiritual – of Tibet and in the process, translate them into various languages like English. This book, Overview of Buddhist Tantra, by Panchen Sonam Drakpa was one of the books translated into English. What’s very interesting is that the book very clearly says that Panchen Sonam Drakpa’s previous life is Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen, one of the five main disciples of Lama Tsongkhapa. It also says that after that, he was Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen.

    So the book is basically saying that Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen, Panchen Sonam Drakpa and Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen – the three Drakpas – are of the same mindstream.

    Now that’s very peculiar because if Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen’s previous life is Panchen Sonam Drakpa, the renowned composer of 45 volumes of Dharma texts, the abbot of three monasteries AND the 15th Gaden Tripa, the holder of Lama Tsongkhapa’s throne…if that’s the case, how can Panchen Sonam Drakpa take rebirth as Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen and become an evil spirit and have a negative mind?

    Prior to Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen, he was Panchen Sonam Drakpa and before that, he was Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen, a heart disciple of Lama Tsongkhapa. How can a heart disciple of Lama Tsongkhapa reincarnate as the erudite master Panchen Sonam Drakpa, and then die and reincarnate as Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen…and then Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen, due to a bad and negative prayer, become the evil spirit Dorje Shugden? How is that possible? Logically, it’s not.

    What’s incredible is that all of this was printed by the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives under the Dalai Lama’s guidance. They contradict themselves because on one hand, the Tibetan leaders say Dorje Shugden is an evil spirit. On the other hand they’re printing a book saying that Panchen Sonam Drakpa, whose later incarnation became Dorje Shugden, is of this illustrious mindstream.

    So how can the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, which is under the auspices of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government, print the translation of a book composed by the previous incarnation of a so-called evil spirit? How can they then say in the book that Panchen Sonam Drakpa’s previous life is Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen, and his next life was Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen?

    Prior to the Dorje Shugden ban and controversy, everyone in Tibet knew that Dorje Shugden is Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen, that Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen is Panchen Sonam Drakpa, and that Panchen Sonam Drakpa is Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen. The three Drakpas, they are one mindstream emanating again and again to benefit other beings.

    And as we all know, Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen became Dorje Shugden so it totally doesn’t make sense to call him an evil spirit, then highlight all of his previous lives as erudite masters, and publish all of this information under their own library. So you can see the contradictions. You can read all of this for yourself in Overview of Buddhist Tantra, which was printed by the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives.

    —–

    OVERVIEW OF BUDDHIST TANTRA

    GENERAL PRESENTATION OF THE CLASSES OF TANTRA,
    CAPTIVATING THE MINDS OF THE FORTUNATE ONES

    rgyud sde spyi’i rnam par bzhag pa
    skal bzang gi yid ‘phrog ces bya ba bzhugs so

    BY
    PANCHEN SONAM DRAGPA
    (Pan-chen bSod-nams grags-pa, 1478-1554)

    O Choje Sonam Dragpa Pel! (Chos-rje bSod-nams grags-pa-dpal!)
    In the vast expanse of Your bodhi-mind,
    The mind that the Buddhas have lauded for as many as
    one hundred times,
    You have developed “merit” shining like the sun.
    Through Your skill in learning, debate and writing,
    As illuminating as one hundred thousand sun rays,
    You have developed in You a complete knowledge of
    the entire sutras and tantras,
    Resembling a garden of flowers in full bloom.
    The power of Your speech is like the sun;
    The fame of your name has reached the three realms of
    this world.
    O Sonam Dragpa, the teacher of teachers!
    I bow down at your feet.

    In the vast garden of Your great teachings,
    The intelligent young people gather for
    The ‘six ultimates’ and the ‘four modes of transmission,’
    Just as they are attracted to
    The one hundred thousand types of nectar
    Dripping from a flower of one hundred petals.
    May I be able to experience
    The taste of the secret tantra!

    Panchen Choje Sonam Dragpa Pel (Panchen Chos-rje bSod-nams grags-pa-dpal), the holder of sutra and Vajrayana teachings, was a master whose outstanding learning and spiritual accomplishments are well known by all the learned ones in Tibet. His first incarnation came in the form of one of the five prestigious disciples of Lord Tsongkhapa (Tsong-kha-pa) and became known as Vinaya Holder (Dulzin) Dragpa Gyaltsen (Gragspa rgyal-mtshan). Then came Panchen Sonam Dragpa Pel (Panchen bSod-nams grags-pa-dpal), the author of the present text. The next was Nagri Tulku Dragpa Gyaltsen (mNga’-ris sPrul-sku Grags-pa rgyal-mtshan). In this way, a line of his incarnations, each with the Dragpa (gragspa) surname, followed successively.

    Panchen Sonam Dragpa Pel (Panchen bSod-nams grags-pa-dpal) was born in the 14th century in Tsetang (rTsed-thang) in the Lhoka (Lho-kha) region of Central Tibet. He entered the great seat of learning, Sera Thekchenling (Se-ra theg-chen-gling) monastic university, where he became the personal disciple of spiritual master Donyo Dangden (Dhon-yod dang-ldan) and His Holiness the Second Dalai Lama Gedun Gyatso (dGe-‘dun rgya-mtsho). Under them, he studied the entire teachings of sutra, tantra and their commentaries, and became known for his outstanding learning. He also received from them the empowerments, reading transmissions, guides and instructions of the entire body of spiritual training. On becoming the fully blessed one, the Dalai Lama appointed him the abbot of the Loseling (Blo-gsalgling) college, one of the four colleges of Drepung (‘Bras-dpung)- the most prestigious monastic university in Tibet before 1959, with over 10,000 monks on its register. He continued to be the abbot of this college for the next six years; and after him the tenure for each of his successors in this position was fixed for a period of six years, a rule that is followed even today.

    He was then appointed the head of the Gelugpa (dGe-lugs-pa) order, the throne holder of Gaden (dGa’-ldan), thus becoming the 15th regent of Lord Tsongkhapa (Tsong-khapa), the second Buddha. In his eulogy to him, Khedrub Gelek Pelsang (mKhas-grub dGe-legs dpal- bzang) says:

    O Lama, the second successor of the Unsubduable One,
    The regent of the Lord of Dharma,
    You are the one who made the virtuous qualities thrive;
    You are the one who ascended to the golden throne uplifted
    by the fearless lions.
    May Your success thrive forever!

    He continued to be the throne holder for the next seven years, during which time he promoted the spread of Lord Tsongkhapa’s (Tsong-kha-pa) precious teachings, the Gelug (dGe-lugs) tradition, across the land in all directions. He also paid special attention to the practice of monastic rules and the learning and meditation of Buddhism in the monasteries such as Sera (Se-ra), Drepung (‘Bras-spungs), Kyomolung (sKyo-mo-lung), Phagmo Chode (Phag-mo chos-sde), Nyeding (Nye-sdings), Ödna (’Od-sna) and Chöde Rinchen (Chos-sde rin-chen) etc. and improved them to a great extent. He taught the Third Dalai Lama Sonam Gyatso (bSod-nams rGya-mtsho) as the latter’s spiritual master. It was from him that the Dalai Lama received the name Sonam (bSod-nams).

    His contributions in the literary field are enormous; and, indeed, they are the most valuable of all his contributions. Tsongkhapa (Tsong-kha-pa) has rightly said:

    Of all one’s deeds,
    The ‘deeds of speech’ are the most valuable.

    Panchen Sonam Dragpa Pel (Panchen bSod-nams grags-pa-dpal) was a person with an extraordinary talent for teaching, debate and writing. In his colophon to Bu mey chi don zab don sel wey dron mey (dBu ma’i spyi don zab don gsal ba’i sgron me), he wrote:

    In the field of teaching, I am [next to none!] Knowing that
    I would outdo them in this field, Arya Asanga and his
    brother transmigrated into another realm.

    In the field of debate, I am [next to none!] Knowing that
    I would find out the areas they had contradicted and
    that I would examine them and put forth my arguments,
    the logician Dignaga (Digh-naga) and Dharmakirti tactfully
    bypassed me.

    In the field of writing, I am [next to none!] [In my eyes,]
    Arya-sura was just good at spreading the works, which
    are like ‘disputes~ between an insect and a field.’

    I am the learned man. Peerless in the field of teaching,
    debate and writing!

    For some this passage might sound utterly nonsensical, but the most learned master of our age, the talented teacher, logician and writer, the late tutor to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Yongdzin Trijang Dorjechang (Yongs-‘dzin Khri-byang rDorje-‘Chang), said: “Now, some people of our time, who consider themselves learned scholars, think that this is utter nonsense; but they are wrong.”

    Panchen Sonam Dragpa Pel (Panchen bSod-nams grags-pa-dpal) wrote over 45 volumes of books dealing with many different subjects, such as the commentaries on the sutras and tantras, the saddhana manuals of the tutelary deities, history, religious history and so forth. Among these, one that is very important for all who wish to learn and meditate on the path-of the practical aspect of Buddhism in general and that of Vajrayana in particular is the Leg shey gyu de chi nam par shagpa kelsang gi yi trod (Legs bshad rgyud sde spyi’i rnam par bzhag pa skal bzang gi yid ‘phrod). In this book, he has explained precisely how the four tantras differ from one another. He has also fully described the stages of the two spontaneous path practices of the Vajrayana tradition, dealing with the ‘six ultimates’ and the ‘four modes of transmission’, thus interpreting without mistake the intention of Adhi-Buddha Vajradhara.

    May the reprint of this text, which the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives is publishing herewith, bring peace and happiness in this world!

    Prof. Nawang Jinpa
    St. Joseph’s College
    Darjeeling
    January 24 1996

    PSD1

    PSD2

    PSD3

    PSD4

    PSD5

  12. Wai Meng Wan on Oct 19, 2018 at 4:12 am

    Inspiring to see all the Thangkas, it shows that Dorje Shugden was practiced across all Tibetan Traditions. How can Dorje Shugden be sectarian?
    A glimpse of former days when everyone practiced Dorje Shudgen harmoniusly.

  13. Chris on Oct 15, 2018 at 11:51 pm

    Thank you, Rinpoche for sharing with us the ancient thangkas of various deities together with Dorje Shugden. It is nice to see Dorje Shugden being depicted with all these mainstream deities in the ancient times. All these thangkas are proof to refute CTA’s baseless allegations against Dorje Shugden practice.

    CTA told us that Dorje Shugden’s practice is a minor practice and only limited to people from a sect. It was accused to be irrelevant and sectarian. This is totally untrue. From the number of thangkas featuring this protector, it is an indication of Dorje Shugden being one of the mainstream protector practice. No one will use their time to produce so many thangkas for an insignificant practice.

    When we see Dorje Shugden being depicted together with other deities and lamas such as Sakya Trizin and Nyingma lama, it shows us that Dorje Shugden is being propitiated in other sects of Buddhism too. His practice is not sectarian and very pervasive at that time.

    0854535116890483edfab5288bf05a42

  14. Valentina Suhendra on Oct 6, 2018 at 4:49 pm

    A Daily Request for Wealth, Peace and Protection

    Composed by H.E. Tsem Rinpoche

    In the heavens there are myriad manifestations of the divine. All those manifestations specifically show us different aspects of divinity in order to be of benefit to all living beings. All the rupakaya forms of the divine have compassion, skillful means and wisdom. We invoke upon them whether we are happy, sad, down, lost, fulfilled, confused, empty, and during the whole range of emotions we constantly experience due to an untrained mind.

    Understanding our nature, Great Wisdom Being Dorje Shugden, therefore all the more so, please hold us close to your bosom as an only child to a parent.

    Though the manifestations of the divine need no offerings and gifts from us, we offer you supreme Manjushri Dorje Shugden a libation of tea, incense and mantras, in order to ask you to bless us, to be a part of our lives, to abide in our dwellings and to give us signs, omens and portents of both good and bad. When the negative arises, quell them immediately. Please increase the positive for my weary and worn mind as I lay my hopes in you.

    When difficulties, problems and confusion arise, we ask you, who is but the culmination of all that is powerful, holy and omniscient to bless myself, family, loved ones, environment and even my pets. May I see wisdom, find hope, and be at peace.

    I request you, O Divine Bhagavān Dorje Shugden, who wears a round dome hat and the three robes of a saffroned bhikshu, who wields a sword of liberty, justice and wisdom and clutches a wish-fulfilling jewel, who rides on a supreme lion of subjugation of all that is negative, to fulfill my wishes. I understand my wishes may not be the best, so I surrender to your wisdom for the outcome though it may not be what I have in mind. Please bless myself and everyone that we may enter into the supreme city of liberation.

    Great Bhagavān Dorje Shugden, I request you sincerely from my heart to be a part of my life, bless my home, and grant me wisdom, solace and comfort, that I might be of service to others without agenda, and that I may focus out onto others and not be fixated on myself, creating more problems for all that I hold dear.

    Bless me to become kinder, wiser, more compassionate, tolerant and very forgiving to all those who hurt and love me. In order to become close to you, Dorje Shugden, we must surrender the banal. We must abandon fixed views, projections and rigidity. Lastly, in my final moment when I leave this plane of existence, only the positive actions I have done will matter as everything and everyone will be left behind. Let me realise this and act upon this now! At this crucial moment, please may I have a vision of yourself, the powerful and merciful Dorje Shugden, to take me to where I may course in the sky to continue my journey of spiritual waxing.

    I offer you saffron-coloured tea and my faith to fulfill my prayers and gain siddhis. By reciting your mantra, may healing, peace, love, long life, protection and perfect view of sunyata arise.

    Mantra of fulfillment, peace and wisdom:

    OM BENZA WIKI BITANA SOHA

    (It is good to recite this mantra daily as much as you like or your timing allows.)

    I dedicate this supreme heartfelt prayer to the all-knowing Celestial and Supreme Protector Dorje Shugden, that I may quickly become a being of light, compassion, love and enlightenment.

    Please play the audio included here to follow along with the prayer.

    OR

    Follow on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-OSudd323A

    For more information, go to: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=61394

    https://video.tsemtulku.com/chat-videos/chat-1538813324.mp4


  15. Stella Cheang on Sep 30, 2018 at 9:25 am

    We are very blessed and fortunate to have our Guru sharing with us this huge collection of ancient Tibetan thangka and Buddhist art which we would otherwise never have the destiny to see them. I am especially drawn to the Lama Tsongkhapa thangka (#38 with Buddha Maitreya on the centre top and Dorje Shugden on the right side at the bottom, it seems to tell a complete story! At the same time, many Dorje Shugden holy thangka are in museums and in publicly exhibition that goes to show the validity of His part/presence in history. This is important because it effectively disarm CTA’s claim against Dorje Shugden – the faith in Dorje Shugden is not new. Because of the efficacious of the practice, people continue to believe and practice. It will not go away simply because CTA declare it otherwise. Thank you, Rinpoche, for this sharing.

  16. Valentina Suhendra on Sep 20, 2018 at 2:04 am

    Be blessed with these rare videos featuring explanation and advice about Dorje Shugden practice by His Holiness Kyabje Zong Rinpoche in his own voice. The teaching was requested by Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen, one of the earliest masters who taught Tibetan Buddhism in the West.

    Video 1: H.H. Kyabje Zong Rinpoche Explains Dorje Shugden Initiation and Benefits (With English Subtitles)

    Kyabje Zong Rinpoche was an erudite scholar, ritual master and practitioner of the highest degree from Tibet. At the request of Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen, one of the pioneers who taught Tibetan Buddhism in America, Kyabje Zong Rinpoche gives clear explanation and advice about the life-entrustment initiation of Dorje Shugden and how to go about the practice and get the maximum benefits in this video.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzFMvlxAqtc&feature=youtu.be

    Video 2: H.H. Kyabje Zong Rinpoche speaks on the History and Lineage of Dorje Shugden (With English Subtitles)

    In this video, an erudite scholar, ritual master and practitioner of the highest degree from Tibet, Kyabje Zong Rinpoche talks about the incarnation lineage of Dorje Shugden and how the practice arose, with examples of Dorje Shugden’s previous lives that reveal his powerful spiritual attainments and contributions. This very rare teaching was given at the request of Kyabje Zong Rinpoche’s student, Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen, one of the pioneers who taught Buddhism in the West to many disciples since the 1970s.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sIzKSJgK618&feature=youtu.be

    For more information: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/kyabje-zong-rinpoches-advice-on-dorje-shugdens-practice.html

  17. Valentina Suhendra on Sep 14, 2018 at 9:58 pm

    Many come to Kechara Forest Retreat in Bentong, Malaysia to make offerings and prayers to the increase form of Dorje Shugden who appears like a prince and rides on a golden horse. Many report having their wishes fulfilled and return many times. Am happy to see this. Tsem Rinpoche

    You can learn more about this form of Dorje Shugden here: https://bit.ly/2wxQyes

    and

    See video of this chapel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kEK35F_O5Hg

    caption

    caption

    caption

    caption

  18. Tsem Rinpoche on Sep 11, 2018 at 10:58 am

    A Yamantaka thangka from the Qing dynasty (also Kangxi’s dynasty), which is being displayed in Sichuan Museum in China. It shows Dorje Shugden in the bottom right of the thangka. Can see many old thangkas with Dorje Shugden within. Dorje Shugden practice pervaded and penetrated into China’s royal circles and aristocrats.

    Qing Dynasty Yamantaka

  19. Valentina Suhendra on Sep 11, 2018 at 1:03 am

    In the emerald forest there lies magical beings and powerful entities of old. There are beautiful gentle creatures of the forest such as deers, rabbits, owls and so on. Faeries, little people, elves, dwarves, trolls and other magnificent worldly and other-worldly beings of mystical origins who nurture and look over the natural world call this place their home. These supernatural beings, who remain hidden to ordinary view and are rarely seen together, have gathered to herald the arrival of the World Peace Guardian Dorje Shugden within the ethereal realm. Paying homage to the divine king they welcome him, the supreme being whose body shines with the light of magnificence and abides in benevolent wisdom. He who has come from the pinnacle of the celestial dimensions, he has the dominion over men and gods. All beings in this and other worlds have gathered to pay homage and to receive blessings, abundance and counsel.

    Shugden the divine king, at last has drawn near,
    He offers a new life so clear,
    With a silent prayer he offers the golden stair,
    Sing praises, does the emerald forest all cheer.

    Om Benza Wiki Bitana Soha

    To see other beautiful portrayals of Dorje Shugden, click here: https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz

    ds

  20. Pastor Shin Tan on Sep 9, 2018 at 3:57 pm

    COMPASSION at its best: His Holiness the Dalai Lama explained in Ladakh, 31 July 2018:

    “Usually at the beginning of an empowerment there is a ritual to drive away interferences. But I no longer feel it’s consistent to regard some beings as evil forces. At the start of each day I cultivate altruism, but in the evening we say, ‘May the evil forces be driven away.’ There seems to be a contradiction here that I’m no longer keen to comply with. I’m not highly realized, but I have great confidence in the power of Bodhichitta.”

    Source: https://bit.ly/2wVsqSb

    ———————————————-

    This latest statement by His Holiness the Dalai Lama is excellent. I fully believe in his compassion and I hope he will fully implement it.

    All negative beings take rebirth with negative minds due to deep attachments. The attachments result in negative states of rebirth and angry minds that carry out harmful actions, like spirits or hungry ghosts who can be very bothersome because they are very angry as they died in the state of attachment in their former rebirths.

    Indeed we need to generate compassion towards these beings, especially the formless type, as it would be the best remedy to stop their harm. We can recite mantras with love and bless them with it. While reciting prayers, we can meditate on them being at peace. When we generate compassion towards these harmful interferences of the formless type, many of them will calm down and stop their harm and even go away. Some of them, you can talk to them and subdue their harm and they will stop harming completely if they feel your love. That is how you can help them.

    Many high masters of India and Tibet generated great compassion towards certain ghosts, spirits or interferers and subdued them in this manner and even made them into protectors of regions. I’ve witnessed this with one of my lamas where he subdued a female spirit that crossed over the Himalayas. After making the spirit promise it will not harm others, my lama gave the spirit a drink to seal the promise.

    Since the Dalai Lama has manifested saying Dorje Shugden is negative (although many high lamas disagree), then he can apply this method to Dorje Shugden. He can ‘subdue’ Dorje Shugden by generating tremendous love, prayers and talking nice to Dorje Shugden who will be ‘subdued’. Then people are henceforth ‘free’ to practice Dorje Shugden without more discrimination, segregation and being called degrading names for practicing this protector.

    Give peace a chance. His Holiness the Dalai Lama can generate great love towards Dorje Shugden and all the hundreds of thousands of Dorje Shugden practitioners that love the Dalai Lama and miss him like I do. May His Holiness the Dalai Lama bring peace and heal the rift with Dorje Shugden practitioners.

    May His Holiness live very long and always be healthy,
    Tsem Rinpoche
    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com

    Reading- https://bit.ly/2wWQGUh

  21. so kin hoe (KISG) on Aug 31, 2018 at 1:51 pm

    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing the beautiful and sacred ancient old thangkas with Dorje Shugden depicted together with pantheon of Buddhas and other Dharma Protectors as well as highly attained masters such as Guru Rinpoche, His Holiness Pabongka Rinpoche, Lord Atisha and His Holiness the 13th Dalai Lama. Upon seeing many images of Dorje Shugden from different traditions in the 40 old thangkas, this has concluded that Dorje Shugden was being practiced not only within the Gelugpa but other lineages as well before the official ban of Dorje Shugden launched by the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) since 1996 and evidently, Dorje Shugden is not sectarian and Dorje Shugden practice will not cause any segregation, disharmony and separation among all Buddhists from different lineages and sects. The false claim made by CTA states that the practice of Dorje Shugden can lead to sectarian is totally untrue and contradicts to the 40 old thangkas as what we have observed.

    We sincerely pray and hope that the ever compassionate and highly respected His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama will lift the ban of Dorje Shugden officially soonest possible and allow for religious freedom for the growth of Buddhadharma and benefit of all Dharma practitioners.

    Humbly with folded hands,
    kin hoe

  22. Yee Yin on Aug 26, 2018 at 10:58 pm

    What the CTA has been telling the public about Dorje Shugden is a big lie. They said Dorje Shugden is sectarian, his practice will create disharmony and conflict in the community. Therefore the practice has to be banned.

    Now, look at these thangkas, these are the proof to debunk what the CTA says. These are very old and ancient thangkas. They are thangkas of different lineages with Dorje Shugden depicted in it.

    If Dorje Shugden is sectarian, how come hundreds of years ago, it was depicted in the thangka of lineages other than Gelug? The depiction of Dorje Shugden in their thangka is a clear indication Dorje Shugden was accepted and being practiced by them. The CTA is using Dorje Shugden as a scapegoat to cover their failure in fulfilling their promise to the Tibetans in exile.

  23. Pastor Adeline Woon on Aug 13, 2018 at 4:09 am

    His Holiness the 10th Panchen Lama

    Tibetans commonly refer to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and His Holiness 10th Panchen Lama as the “sun and moon” of Tibetan Buddhism. They are the center of Tibetan Buddhist civilization, which draws to its sphere of influence millions of non-Tibetan practitioners. The Panchen Lama’s incarnation line began with the 16th abbot of Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen (1570 – 1662). He was bestowed the title of Panchen Lama by His Holiness the 5th Dalai Lama after being declared as an emanation of Amitabha.

    After being given the title, his three previous incarnations were posthumously also bestowed the title, making Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen the 4th Panchen Lama. He became a teacher to many Tibetans, Bhutanese and Mongolian religious figures, including His Holiness the 4th and 5th Dalai Lamas, and the 1st Jetsun Dampa of Mongolia. A prolific author, Chokyi Gyeltsen is credited with over a hundred compositions, including a number of commentaries and ritual texts that remain central in the Gelukpa tradition today. Along with his role as a teacher of the Dharma, the Panchen Lamas are usually responsible for the recognition of the rebirths of the Dalai Lamas, and vice versa.

    The 10th Panchen Lama, Lobsang Trinley Lhundrub Chokyi Gyeltsen (19 February 1938 – 28 January 1989) continued both the spiritual and political roles of his predecessors. His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, his contemporary, was even heard to say and echo the Panchen Lama’s own words that the Dalai Lama would safeguard Tibet from the outside while the Panchen Lama would safeguard Tibet from the inside, as he never left Tibet after the political troubles of 1959. He was truly loved by the Tibetans, all the way until his passing. When he taught, thousands of people would attend, not only from his own Gelug lineage, but masters and practitioners from all traditions of Tibetan Buddhism.

    At his sprawling monastery of Tashi Lhunpo, he has a special chapel specifically dedicated to Dorje Shugden, where prayers and rituals are performed on a daily basis. In his great omniscience the Panchen Lama held Dorje Shugden as the principal Dharma protector of the monastery. He also personally propitiated Dorje Shugden among other Dharma protectors, and even wrote extensive prayers and rituals to Dorje Shugden. These rituals and prayers are contained within his ‘sung bum’ or collected works, which are provided here. As such a great lama, with an erudite and clear understanding of the Buddhist scriptures, a teacher to millions in both Tibet and China, from an established incarnation line and an emanation of the Buddha Amitabha, he could not be mistaken about his practice of Dorje Shugden.

    His Holiness 10th Panchen Lama is known for his composition of commentaries and practice texts that are still in use by contemporary Buddhist practitioners both in Tibet and across the world. One of these is a powerful ritual composition propitiating the compassionate Dorje Shugden.

    Upon the request by Acharya Lobsang Jangchub to compose a shorter version of the prayer (sadhana) for the exhortation of activities of Dorje Shugden, Panchen Lama immediately composed an abbreviate form of Dorje Shugden’s Kangsol. This text is entitled “Manjunatha’s (Tsongkapa) Lineage protector Dorje Shugden and five forms wrathful propitiations and confessional prayers and fulfilment of activities rites” or “Melodious sound of Accomplishment of the Four Activities” for short. Once the prayers were completed, he had signs and strong feelings that Dorje Shugden has been working hard to protect the Buddhadharma in general and the lineage of Lama Tsongkhapa specifically.

    Mirroring the abilities of one of his earlier incarnations, Khedrub Je, a disciple of Lama Tsongkhapa and master of both sutra and tantra, the Panchen Lama used his compositional skill and poetic prowess to create a masterful sadhana. Worthy of note is a praise in which the first letter of each verse is a Tibetan vowel. Such compositions are rarely seen, and have historically only been used when propitiating senior Dharma protectors such as Palden Lhamo and Kalarupa.

    The Panchen Lama also stated that while composing the Dorje Shugden sadhana (prayers) he was filled with a sense of happiness and bliss. He ends the composition with not only his official title but his ordination name, Tenzin Trinley Jigme Choje Wangchuk, endorsing the validity of his work. He composed the sadhana in his own Tashi Lhunpo monastery while in the Hall of Clear Light and Bliss.

    See the Panchen Lama’s writings and download: https://bit.ly/2KIfeXb

  24. Tsa Tsa Ong on Aug 12, 2018 at 10:39 pm

    It is proven that Dorje shugden been practised decades ago. These are the many evidence that Dorje Shugden is not an evil spirit as it has been practised by other Tibetan sects as well. We have proof on so many of these antique thangkas that Dorje Shugden was well respected by all traditions. It is really illogical for the CTA to say that Dorje Shugden is sectarian. Thank you very much Rinpoche and blog team for sharing this article and so many blessed and beautiful antique thangkas of Dorje Shugden ???

  25. Samfoonheei on Aug 12, 2018 at 4:10 pm

    Awesome indeed looking at those ancient art thangkas painting. Feeling so fortunate to view those rare ancient thangkas which paints a thousand words . Many of these very old thangkas of Dorje Shugden featuring alongside with Guru Rinpoche or other deities. It has proven that Dorje shugden been practised decades ago. These are the many evidence that Dorje Shugden is not an evil as it has been practised by other Tibetan Buddhist traditions as well. Over the years Rinpoche have collected many accurate knowledge about Dorje Shugden and now with visual evidence to proof it too. There are countless images of Dorje Shugden painted in old ancient thangkas, if Dorje Shugden is harmful then why was it painted . Many great masters and practitioners knew there are numberless benefits in relying on Dorje Shugden, that’s why they have included him in such a wide range of paintings and images. There must always a reason when the painter painted the images.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this beautiful sharing. Those Tibetan art work was done beautifully which tell us a thousands words.. This ancient Tibetan art is on the verge getting extinct as many people do not understand the beautiful part of Buddhism’s rich history.
    Thanks again with folded hands.

  26. Kenneth Chan on Aug 12, 2018 at 4:29 am

    Dear Rinpoche and team,

    Thank you for this insightful post. I really like when art captures the past and becomes a visual documentation of history.

    There is so much that one can tell about a country, it’s people, their religious beliefs and culture.

    It’s unfortunate though, that so many of these wonderful works have been commodified in the art market, selling at art auctions for tens to hundreds of thousands and more to private art collectors.

    As objects of antiquities, they, firstly, have the most value to the people who understand how extremely holy and blessed they are. These are objects that deserve to be venerated in the way they were made for.

    Secondly, as cultural objects, it would benefit people today through these works of art to be able to learn and appreciate the lives and the stories of those who helped shaped culture and tradition.

    It is a travesty for art like these to be exploited for commercial gain then only to be hidden away from public eye, hidden away in fortressed mansions.

    Luckily, we have the internet and sites like these which allow us a glimpse into parts of our world that would otherwise be inaccessible.

    Thank you for the bringing all this and so much more to all of us.

  27. Bradley Kassian on Aug 12, 2018 at 1:09 am

    I love how people say DS practice was only a minority practice and wasn’t widespread, and yet here we have proof on all these images that he was well respected by all traditions. Though he’s not the main focal point on these antique thangkas, he clearly had prominence to be placed on these.

    • Martin on Aug 12, 2018 at 1:42 pm

      Dear Bradley,

      Again, you display very astute observation i.e. Dorje Shugden was widely respected and practised by different Tibetan Buddhist lineages, but historically not portrayed as the main focus of worship. That is simply because Dorje Shugden was never intended as a cult figure who demanded his followers to idolise and worship him to the exclusion of the Three Jewels, as the CTA claims.

      As a matter of fact, Manjushri manifested as Dorje Shugden to provide resources and create viable conditions for practitioners to embark on their path to enlightenment and in that way, Dorje Shugden compassionately manifested as a means to an end, not the end itself. The only texts within which Dorje Shugden is depicted as a sectarian spirit is in the CTA’s smear campaign material.

      All these old thangkas are powerful attestations to Dorje Shugden’s objective which is very much contrary to the CTA’s narrative.

      Thank you

  28. Robert on Aug 11, 2018 at 9:40 pm

    No.35 was sold by one of the big British Auction houses, and the sale notes include the memorable observation that the contemporary fear of Dorje Shugden in some quarters is “completely irrational”. I can find and post the original sale notes if people are interested!

    • Martin on Aug 12, 2018 at 12:40 am

      Dear Robert,

      It’s so refreshing to read the opinion of educated and rational people who understand the art history of Tibetan Buddhism minus the politics.

      It would be fantastic if you can find the note to add to this post. It would no doubt enrich the information herein and benefit readers.

Leave a Reply

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

 

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

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

Blog Chat

BLOG CHAT

Dear blog friends,

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

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

Tsem Rinpoche


SCHEDULED CHAT SESSIONS / 聊天室时间表

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

UPCOMING TOPICS FOR MARCH / 三月份讨论主题

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


Blog Chat Etiquette

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

EXPAND
Be friendly

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

Be Patient

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

Be Relevant

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

Be polite

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

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

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

KECHARA FOREST RETREAT PROGRESS UPDATES

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

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

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

Noticeboard

Name: Email:
For:  
Mail will not be published
  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Mar 15. 2024 07:31 PM
    Venerable Ajahn Chah was a Thai Buddhist teacher of the Buddhadhamma and a founder of two major monasteries in the Thai Forest Tradition. Well respected and loved as a man of great wisdom, he was also instrumental in establishing Theravada Buddhism in the West. Interesting life story, how he chose to leave the settled monastic life and became a wandering ascetic. Walking across Thailand, lived in forests, caves and cremation grounds while learning from the meditation monks of the Forest of various monasteries. He wandered through the countryside in quest of quiet and secluded places for developing meditation. He even lived in tiger and cobra infested jungles, using reflections on death to penetrate to the true meaning of life. After years of wandering, Venerable Ajahn Chah established a monastery where he taught simple, practice-based form of meditation, and attracted a numerous of students including western foreigners. He was one of the greatest Dhamma teachers of the modern era. His wise teachings have continued to guide thousands of people along the path of Dharma. Venerable Ajahn Chah’s teachings of the Thai Forest Tradition gradually spread across all over the world. Several of Ajahn Chah’s Western students have since established monasteries throughout the world. Just in Thailand itself, there are more than 300 branch monasteries in Ajahn Chah’s tradition. Ven erable Ajahn Chah used his ill health as a teaching point, emphasizing that it was a living example of the impermanence of all things and reminded people to endeavour to find a true refuge within themselves. The legacy of Venerable Ajahn Chah’s teachings and legacy continues into the modern age.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this great sharing.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/inspiration-worthy-words/the-power-of-giving-18-quotes-from-tsem-rinpoche.html
  • Aarati Bhatt
    Wednesday, Feb 28. 2024 12:47 AM
    I have tried mine and my friend’s horoscope and it results same in both of our case, and not just that I have tried this on various friends and this horoscope is showing same for maximum date of birth, I think this is a bug.
  • Samfoonheei
    Thursday, Jan 4. 2024 04:11 PM
    Lama Tsongkhapa was an influential Tibetan Buddhist monk, philosopher and tantric yogi, whose activities led to the formation of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism . Lama Tsongkhapa was hailed as the second Buddha by contemporary Buddhist masters of his time. Famous for reviving Buddhism in Tibet and revered for elevating the Dharma to all its present glory. Hence having a 12 ft Lama Tsongkhapa Statue at new Kechara Gompa (Prayer Hall) is indeed a blessing. Its truly beautiful. Merely by looking at it is a blessing .
    Thank you Rinpoche and team effort making it possible.

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

1 · 2 · 3 · 4 · 5 · »

Messages from Rinpoche

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

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

Previous Live Videos

MORE VIDEOS

Shugdenpas Speaking Up Across The Globe

From Europe Shugden Association:


MORE VIDEOS

From Tibetan Public Talk:


MORE VIDEOS

CREDITS

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

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

Tsem Rinpoche

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

The Unknown

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

Photos On The Go

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

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

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

Videos On The Go

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

ASK A PASTOR


Ask the Pastors

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

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

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

View All Questions

CHAT PICTURES

And here's Mr Wong of KSK Ipoh who dropped by to pray and offered some donation to the Chapel. Kechara Penang Study Group. Pic by Siew Hong & uploaded by Jacinta.
2 days ago
And here's Mr Wong of KSK Ipoh who dropped by to pray and offered some donation to the Chapel. Kechara Penang Study Group. Pic by Siew Hong & uploaded by Jacinta.
Today's puja (16/3/2024) ended around 420pm, Jacinta was the umze of the day. Pic by Siew Hong. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 days ago
Today's puja (16/3/2024) ended around 420pm, Jacinta was the umze of the day. Pic by Siew Hong. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Group photo taken after the last session, sealed with King of Prayers. Come and join us next time! Sayonara - 9-10th March 2024 - Kechara Penang DS Retreat by Jacinta.
6 days ago
Group photo taken after the last session, sealed with King of Prayers. Come and join us next time! Sayonara - 9-10th March 2024 - Kechara Penang DS Retreat by Jacinta.
Abundance altar! Fruits, flowers, Mee Koo (traditional Penang buns), Bee Hoon, sourdoughs and snacks are some of the offerings to Rinpoche, Buddhas & Bodhisattvas. Kechara Penang Dorje Shugden Retreat 9-10th March, 2024 by Jacinta.
7 days ago
Abundance altar! Fruits, flowers, Mee Koo (traditional Penang buns), Bee Hoon, sourdoughs and snacks are some of the offerings to Rinpoche, Buddhas & Bodhisattvas. Kechara Penang Dorje Shugden Retreat 9-10th March, 2024 by Jacinta.
Siew Hong, one of retreatants and an active member of Kechara Penang group proudly presented her torma to be used during the Kalarupa puja. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
7 days ago
Siew Hong, one of retreatants and an active member of Kechara Penang group proudly presented her torma to be used during the Kalarupa puja. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Torma making was taught by Pastor Seng Piow and held one day before the retreat. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
7 days ago
Torma making was taught by Pastor Seng Piow and held one day before the retreat. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Penang Dorje Shugden Retreat cum Puja, 9-10th March 2024 led by Pastor Seng Piow with 12 retreatants. Uploaded by Jacinta
7 days ago
Penang Dorje Shugden Retreat cum Puja, 9-10th March 2024 led by Pastor Seng Piow with 12 retreatants. Uploaded by Jacinta
The celebration ended with a Dorje Shugden puja, dedicated to all the sponsors, our loved ones and as well as for the happiness & good health for all sentient beings. May Rinpoche return swiftly too and taking this opportunity wishing all Happy Chinese New Year and Gong Xi Fa Cai from all of us, Kechara Penang Study Group. Uploaded by Jacinta.
1 month ago
The celebration ended with a Dorje Shugden puja, dedicated to all the sponsors, our loved ones and as well as for the happiness & good health for all sentient beings. May Rinpoche return swiftly too and taking this opportunity wishing all Happy Chinese New Year and Gong Xi Fa Cai from all of us, Kechara Penang Study Group. Uploaded by Jacinta.
Seen here, Pastor Seng Piow set off firecrackers - welcoming of the upcoming year with enthusiasm and positive energy. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
1 month ago
Seen here, Pastor Seng Piow set off firecrackers - welcoming of the upcoming year with enthusiasm and positive energy. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
In this pic, Pastor Seng Piow is sharing Dharma with newbies ~ Sharyn's friends. It's always good to make light offerings at the beginning of new year. By making light offerings, you are able to dispel the darkness of ignorance and achieve wisdom. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
1 month ago
In this pic, Pastor Seng Piow is sharing Dharma with newbies ~ Sharyn's friends. It's always good to make light offerings at the beginning of new year. By making light offerings, you are able to dispel the darkness of ignorance and achieve wisdom. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
One the day of Losar (new lunar year), it is always beneficial for Buddhist practitioners to get together in making abundant offerings to Buddhas on the altar to usher in goodness, prosperity and well-being of our loved ones. It's more auspicious this year as Losar and the Chinese New Year begin on the same date, 10th Feb, 2024. Back in Penang, our Kechara members came together to decorate the altar with abundance offerings for Dorje Shugden puja @3pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
1 month ago
One the day of Losar (new lunar year), it is always beneficial for Buddhist practitioners to get together in making abundant offerings to Buddhas on the altar to usher in goodness, prosperity and well-being of our loved ones. It's more auspicious this year as Losar and the Chinese New Year begin on the same date, 10th Feb, 2024. Back in Penang, our Kechara members came together to decorate the altar with abundance offerings for Dorje Shugden puja @3pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Mr. Dared Lim was offering water bowls on behalf of Kechara Ipoh Study Group. (Kin Hoe)
1 month ago
Mr. Dared Lim was offering water bowls on behalf of Kechara Ipoh Study Group. (Kin Hoe)
Jun from Ipoh was offering mandarin oranges to Mother Tara and The Three Jewels. (Kin Hoe)
1 month ago
Jun from Ipoh was offering mandarin oranges to Mother Tara and The Three Jewels. (Kin Hoe)
Prior to our puja in Ipoh, Mr. & Mrs. Cheah Fook Wan were preparing for the offerings to the Buddhas. (Kin Hoe)
1 month ago
Prior to our puja in Ipoh, Mr. & Mrs. Cheah Fook Wan were preparing for the offerings to the Buddhas. (Kin Hoe)
On Sunday afternoon, Kechara Ipoh Study Group has carried out Mother Tara prayer recitations in Ipoh. (Kin Hoe)
1 month ago
On Sunday afternoon, Kechara Ipoh Study Group has carried out Mother Tara prayer recitations in Ipoh. (Kin Hoe)
Some of the best shots taken during Thaipusam in Penang. Swee Bee, Huey, Tang KS, Nathan, Choong SH and Jacinta volunteered. Wai Meng came all the way from KL to help out. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 months ago
Some of the best shots taken during Thaipusam in Penang. Swee Bee, Huey, Tang KS, Nathan, Choong SH and Jacinta volunteered. Wai Meng came all the way from KL to help out. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Simple yet powerful ally ~ Bhagawan Dorje Shuden. Kechara Penang Study Group consists of Chien Seong, Hue, Choong SH, Tang KS, Swee Bee and Jacinta. Wai Meng came all the way from KL to help out. Uploaded by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Simple yet powerful ally ~ Bhagawan Dorje Shuden. Kechara Penang Study Group consists of Chien Seong, Hue, Choong SH, Tang KS, Swee Bee and Jacinta. Wai Meng came all the way from KL to help out. Uploaded by Jacinta.
Thaipusam in Penang. Some of the best shots. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 months ago
Thaipusam in Penang. Some of the best shots. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Nothing beats having a sacred audience with our lineage lamas. It's not selfie or wefie, but we have the best 'groufie'!!! 20th Jan 2024, Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Nothing beats having a sacred audience with our lineage lamas. It's not selfie or wefie, but we have the best 'groufie'!!! 20th Jan 2024, Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Welcoming our lineage Gurus to our Penang Chapel today! Pastor Seng Piow explained the significance of having Guru Tree and introduced to us our lineage lamas, Buddhas, deities, protectors and etc.
2 months ago
Welcoming our lineage Gurus to our Penang Chapel today! Pastor Seng Piow explained the significance of having Guru Tree and introduced to us our lineage lamas, Buddhas, deities, protectors and etc.
Umze for the day was Siew Hong. She's just been with us for slightly more than a year now but she's proven her capability in leading the puja. Our Penang group members are so proud of her and her commitment in attending the weekly puja. Despite being eloquence and smart, she has beautiful chant as well. When she leads, make sure you are there to hear her chant for yourself! Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Umze for the day was Siew Hong. She's just been with us for slightly more than a year now but she's proven her capability in leading the puja. Our Penang group members are so proud of her and her commitment in attending the weekly puja. Despite being eloquence and smart, she has beautiful chant as well. When she leads, make sure you are there to hear her chant for yourself! Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Umze for the day was Siew Hong. She's just been with us for slightly more than a year now but she's proven her capability in leading the puja. Our Penang group members are so proud of her and her commitment in attending the weekly puja. Despite being eloquence and smart, she has beautiful chant as well. When she leads, make sure you are there to hear her chant for yourself! Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Umze for the day was Siew Hong. She's just been with us for slightly more than a year now but she's proven her capability in leading the puja. Our Penang group members are so proud of her and her commitment in attending the weekly puja. Despite being eloquence and smart, she has beautiful chant as well. When she leads, make sure you are there to hear her chant for yourself! Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Tara Recitation is on now at KISG - Wai Meng
3 months ago
Tara Recitation is on now at KISG - Wai Meng
Photo from Wan Wai Meng
3 months ago
Photo from Wan Wai Meng
A sea of yellow ~usually in Tibetan Buddhism yellow represents growth. We prayed that our Penang group will grow in terms of people, wealth and attainments too. _/\_ Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 months ago
A sea of yellow ~usually in Tibetan Buddhism yellow represents growth. We prayed that our Penang group will grow in terms of people, wealth and attainments too. _/_ Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
After Dorje Shugden puja @3pm, we had Rinpoche's Swift Return puja too. We laughed as Sis Swee Bee was commenting that Tang should smile ~ here's the reason why we laughed.  Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta Goh
3 months ago
After Dorje Shugden puja @3pm, we had Rinpoche's Swift Return puja too. We laughed as Sis Swee Bee was commenting that Tang should smile ~ here's the reason why we laughed. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta Goh
3 months ago
Today's (9/12/2023)Dorje Shugden puja led by Gordon. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 months ago
Today's (9/12/2023)Dorje Shugden puja led by Gordon. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 months ago
3 months ago
Dharma sharing by Hue before we proceeded with DS puja & Rinpoche Swift Return puja. Hue is one of the long time Kechara Penang members and he comes to puja regularly. He shared that he truly believes that Dorje Shugden and Rinpoche always there guiding him. He shared how sometimes DS will give him hints to avert troubles ahead or to alert him when he 'misbehaved'. Hope many will come to know more about this powerful Dharma Protector, Dorje Shugden aka DS. Having Dorje Shugden is like having a powerful ally that will protect us day and night. Just trust Him and have faith. Kechara Penang Study Group, 25/11/2023 by Jacinta.
4 months ago
Dharma sharing by Hue before we proceeded with DS puja & Rinpoche Swift Return puja. Hue is one of the long time Kechara Penang members and he comes to puja regularly. He shared that he truly believes that Dorje Shugden and Rinpoche always there guiding him. He shared how sometimes DS will give him hints to avert troubles ahead or to alert him when he 'misbehaved'. Hope many will come to know more about this powerful Dharma Protector, Dorje Shugden aka DS. Having Dorje Shugden is like having a powerful ally that will protect us day and night. Just trust Him and have faith. Kechara Penang Study Group, 25/11/2023 by Jacinta.
Kechara Penang Study Group had our weekly DS puja , led by our beloved sis Swee Bee and serkym by Mr. Lee. After that, we completed Swift Return puja also. 18th Nov 2023. By Jacinta
4 months ago
Kechara Penang Study Group had our weekly DS puja , led by our beloved sis Swee Bee and serkym by Mr. Lee. After that, we completed Swift Return puja also. 18th Nov 2023. By Jacinta
#Back2back 11th Nov 2023 Dorje Shugden puja & Rinpoche's Swift Return puja @Penang Chapel, 49 Jalan Seang Tek, Georgetown, Pulau Pinang. Every Saturday @3pm/5pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
4 months ago
#Back2back 11th Nov 2023 Dorje Shugden puja & Rinpoche's Swift Return puja @Penang Chapel, 49 Jalan Seang Tek, Georgetown, Pulau Pinang. Every Saturday @3pm/5pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Pic: Rinpoche Swift Return puja ~ 21/10/23 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
5 months ago
Pic: Rinpoche Swift Return puja ~ 21/10/23 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
#Backtoback A few months back, Kechara Penang Study Group started to have two pujas consecutively on Saturday. Dorje Shugden puja @3pm and thereafter Rinpoche Swift Return puja. This can only be achieved due to the committed members from Penang. A big round of applause...... Pic : DS puja on 21/10/2023 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
5 months ago
#Backtoback A few months back, Kechara Penang Study Group started to have two pujas consecutively on Saturday. Dorje Shugden puja @3pm and thereafter Rinpoche Swift Return puja. This can only be achieved due to the committed members from Penang. A big round of applause...... Pic : DS puja on 21/10/2023 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
More pictures of the day! Kechara Penang Chapel & public blessings 3rd Oct 2023 by Jacinta.
5 months ago
More pictures of the day! Kechara Penang Chapel & public blessings 3rd Oct 2023 by Jacinta.
Some pictures of the public blessings taken right after the puja was completed by the monks. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta. 3rd Oct 2023.
5 months ago
Some pictures of the public blessings taken right after the puja was completed by the monks. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta. 3rd Oct 2023.
3rd Oct 2023, Tibetan monks came to Kechara Penang for chapel & public blessing, in conjunction with the arrival of H. E Tsem Rinpoche's holy statue. Thanks to Pastor Henry & Pastor Seng Piow, who guided us throughout the event. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
5 months ago
3rd Oct 2023, Tibetan monks came to Kechara Penang for chapel & public blessing, in conjunction with the arrival of H. E Tsem Rinpoche's holy statue. Thanks to Pastor Henry & Pastor Seng Piow, who guided us throughout the event. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Tsem Rinpoche's holy statue is here! 3rd Oct 2023. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
5 months ago
Tsem Rinpoche's holy statue is here! 3rd Oct 2023. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
29th Sept 2023. Kechara Penang Dorje Shugden puja adjourned at 4.30pm with 9 attendees. Thereafter, a Rinpoche Swift Return puja was completed too. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
5 months ago
29th Sept 2023. Kechara Penang Dorje Shugden puja adjourned at 4.30pm with 9 attendees. Thereafter, a Rinpoche Swift Return puja was completed too. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
The Promise
  These books will change your life
  Support Blog Team
Lamps For Life
  Robe Offerings
  Vajrayogini Stupa Fund
  Dana Offerings
  Soup Kitchen Project
 
Zong Rinpoche

Archives

YOUR FEEDBACK

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

Login

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