Rinpoche, What is a suitable offering/s to offer to your Guru or His representative when meeting Him for the first time? What is important to bear in mind on such an occasion? Thank you.
Finally, a section for you to clarify your Dharma questions with Kechara’s esteemed pastors. Just post your question below and one of our pastors will provide you with an answer.
Note: This section of H.E. Tsem Rinpoche’s blog is meant for Dharma questions or questions related to Kechara and our lineage. If the question is not relevant or out of our scope, we will respectfully request you to seek an answer on a more relevant platform. Before posting your question, we would also like to suggest that you look through some of the older posts (or do a search on this blog) before you post a question as your question may have been already answered in an older post.
Browse through previous question submissions and learn from the Pastors’ answers. Click on the different page numbers or arrow buttons to view older questions.
Question asked by Martin
Dear Rinpoche,
I hope your are feeling much better. I have always believed that in practicing Dharma, we should push ourselves to the max and way beyond our confort zone. This is as opposed to taking "calculated bets" as one would do in business.
I have been advised not to bite off more than i can chew in doing Dharma as not doing dharma well attracts negative karma. Is it correct to take the view that if the motivation is correct, we should not be afraid to keep pushing beyond ourselves?
Question asked by Melvin
Dear Rinpoche,
I am planning to take the Solitary Yamantaka initiation with His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Long Beach in May. However, I have never received teachings from His Holiness and I have only read some of his books and watched/listened to some of his video/audio teachings. This is the same situation in regards to yourself for me.
How do you enter into a Guru-disciple relationship with a Guru u have never physically met or received teachings from? Do u wait till you physically meet? ty
Question asked by Alvin
Dear Rinpoche,
my yesterday question is if giving more of my details to your liason eg Beng Kooi to help you find the solution to my financial difficulties iwill most help to provide him all the necessary details i am a new member of kechara abt 3 mths alsoi will be happy togive some ideas to expand or reach out more ppl in klang valley to do dharma works i am very excited about the works Kechara is doing Thankyou
Our Guru Tsem Rinpoche
with folded hands
Thankyou pls take your time no hurry
Question asked by Alvin
Dear Rinpoche
I am doing full time real estate negotiator my income is not consistent only when i have a successful deals
1.what can i do to increase my income ?? 2.how do i know if i am on a right career path hope you can help me out even if i have togivemy details to your liason. Thankyou my Guru Tsem Rinpoche
Question asked by Herschel
Sorry for the non-religious question, but how did you manage to legally change your name outside the USA? The embassy told me that you can only change your name on your passport if you get married, or if you show them an official document from an American court (which would mean going back to the U.S.).
Question asked by Suryia
Forgive me, I wasn’t clear before. I didn’t mean to ask about your legal name (I’m sure that’s none of my business), I just need to know how to cite you in a bibliography. For example, which name-element should be regarded as your surname? Do you prefer to be alphabetically listed as “Rinpoche, T.T.” or as “Tsem, T.R.” or “Tsem Rinpoche, R.” (considering them as one word)? I thought that “Rinpoche” might function as a detachable title (like “Sir” or “Dame”), but you have very forcefully corrected me on that point. It also occurred to me that perhaps “Tsem Rinpoche” should be considered a title (like “Dalai Lama”) rather than a personal name, since your two predecessors bore it as well. I’m very sorry to have offended you, and am only trying to comprehend your preferred usage.
Question asked by Terry
Have you ever heard of Edgar Cayce, the famous trance-channeler? They say his psychic readings were amazingly accurate. While awake he was this uneducated Christian from Kentucky, but while asleep he talked about stuff like reincarnation, astrology, meditation, the seven chakras, etc. The thing is, he also disagreed with Buddhism on some points. For instance, he taught that humans never reincarnate as animals (or vice versa). Also karma is God’s way of teaching us lessons, so our soul can evolve to higher planes of consciousness. (Yes, he believed in God and the soul.) I guess that all religions have an inner core of truth, which would mean that Cayce and Christianity must be partly right and partly wrong. But applying the same principle to Tibetan Buddhism, can we say that Lamrim or Prasangika Madhyamika are only partly true? How would you resolve this, sir? Thank you.
Question asked by EG
That’s what I thought, too. You probably meant to type “1986.” Here’s the source: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/2011/02/powerful-quotes.html
While I’m on a roll, perhaps you will allow another question. A few post below, you wrote that “There were many things I noticed in the Geshe system I did not want to be involved with.” Could you please clarify? What, in your opinion, are the main shortcomings of the geshe system?
Question asked by Petunia
Could you please explain the psychological principles behind your famous “pick” game? For example, how does one construct a dilemma capable of revealing the answerer’s personality and character? (Or do the same questions work for everyone?) Are there books on this method, or did you invent it yourself?
Question asked by Rita
Rinpoche, for those of us who are not ready to give up sex, is it better to have a boyfriend or girlfriend (in which the people are attached to one another), or to give up attachment in favor of a “friends with benefits” or “no strings” relationship? Also, I read somewhere that it goes against tantric vows to have sex with anybody who doesn’t believe in tantra. Is that true? Thank you, and Happy Valentines Day!
Question asked by Terry
Dear Rinpoche, is believing in Buddhism (reincarnation, karma, enlightenment, etc.) like believing in Bigfoot or UFO’s? Sometimes it seems like there’s no way to really know the truth. I mean, philosophically, any of this stuff can be argued either way. Some people claim to be authorities, but they disagree about practically everything. If we try to figure out the answers for ourselves, we might search forever without getting anywhere. But you got somewhere, Rinpoche. How did you decide what to believe, and who to trust?
Question asked by Zhengdao
After watching your DVD, “Buddhism Begins at Home,” I am still unclear on certain aspects of the arrangement of a home altar. I understand that the main votive elements are a Buddha statue in the center, and a scripture and stupa on either side. Are there any guidelines as to which Buddhas are more appropriately used as this central image, and which are better represented in some other way, e.g. as thangkas? Also, how should photographs of the Dalai Lama and one’s teachers be positioned in relation to the other votive elements? Thank you very much!
Question asked by Anne Huang
Dear Rinpoche, you and the Dalai Lama both say you don’t want to convert people. And yet, practically all of your followers (and many of his) are, in fact, converts—from Christianity, the Chinese folk religion, and/or Chinese Buddhism. If your followers are committed to follow your advice, and your advice is to remain within their original religions, then why don’t more of them go back? And for that matter, why does Kechara actively recruit people who are not from a traditional Tibetan, Mongolian, or Himalayan Buddhist background?
By the way, if you’re wondering how many unanswered questions you have left, by my count there are 35: 2 on page four (by Devon and Maxwell), 2 on page three (Audrey and possibly Jonis), 20 on page two (all), and 11 on page one (be sure not to overlook Doreen Teoh and “i” at the bottom). Note that the addition of this question (and all subsequent ones) will shift the page numbers slightly.
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If you are in the United States, please note that your offerings and contributions are tax deductible. ~ the tsemrinpoche.com blog team
Meet the Pastors
Serving the community. Tirelessly
Combining the responsibilities of the ordained and the appearance of a layperson, pastors are the connection between the sangha and the everyday practitioner. They are ordinary people who have taken an extraordinary step in dedicating their lives towards sharing the Buddhist tradition. As laypeople holding vows, pastors will make the Dharma accessible to more people, giving them guidance and sharing knowledge. The pastors are usually present at Kechara House and available for consultation anytime. For more information, contact house@kechara.com.
Pastor Chia (sangha to be)
As a pastor, Chia will dedicate his life to befitting others through spreading the works of Tsem Rinpoche and Dharma to many people, through the use of pujas, rituals, counseling and sharing of his knowledge.
Ordained as a Pastor in 2011, Chia Song Peng has had a rich and varied Dharma career. He has held a core position with the Kechara Paradise retail outlets, served as a personal attendant to Tsem Rinpoche, embarked on various pilgrimages and received initiations into higher yoga tantric practices. He is accomplished in many pujas and has a deep understanding of the Dharma.
As a pastor, Chia has dedicated his life to befitting others through spreading the works of Tsem Rinpoche and Dharma to many people, through the use of pujas, rituals, counseling and sharing of his knowledge.
When Chia first met Tsem Rinpoche, he was asked if he wanted to become a monk, however even though this was his aspiration he informed Tsem Rinpoche that he would do so at a later date. For Chia, as he has is already in the Dharma full-time, it would be best if he became ordained. Tsem Rinpoche has reminded Chia from time to time to work towards becoming a monk and he promised that he would do so in the future.
Kechara began from nothing to become a growing Dharma organisation with major projects such as Kechara Forest Retreat, so Chia thinks that this is the perfect time to become ordained as a monk. Recently Tsem Rinpoche asked Chia again if he would like to be ordained, this time Chia said yes.
Pastor Khong Jean Ai (sangha to be)
Jean Ai wishes to become a vessel that holds the teachings of Lama Tsongkhapa to benefit future generations, inspiring others to live by the Buddha’s teachings.
Jean Ai met His Eminence Tsem Rinpoche as a young child and through her parents' involvement with Kechara over the years, she has never known a life without His Eminence. Jean Ai was a regular volunteer of Tsem Ladrang during her childhood and teenage years. After graduating with a BSc (Hons) in Psychology from the University of Warwick in the UK and working at the London Probation Service, she returned to Kuala Lumpur to join Tsem Ladrang's e-division. There she managed kechara.com, responsible for the weekly Kechara e-newsletter, including content generation and editing. Since then she has joined His Eminence Tsem Rinpoche’s writing team, responsible for executing Rinpoche’s personal instructions and managing his correspondence.
Having visited a nunnery in India in 2004, Jean Ai remembers noticing how happy and purposeful everyone was. She had a feeling of familiarity and the sight of the robes comforted her. Immediately, Jean Ai messaged her mother who told her to ask Rinpoche’s advice. Rinpoche told her to complete her secular education so that when she taught the Dharma her words would carry the credibility and weight of a university degree, something she completed with the motivation that some day she wanted to become a nun.
Through her ordination as a nun, Jean Ai wishes to become a vessel that holds the teachings of Lama Tsongkhapa to benefit future generations, inspiring others to live by the Buddha’s teachings. Through this she hopes to repay the kindness of her parents and her Guru. Above all she wants to abide in a state free of suffering, and she wants this for others as well.
Pastor Shin Tan (sangha to be)
For Shin, this is a great step forward to being fully committed to the cause of others and repaying others’ kindness through sharing the Dharma with others.
Before joining Kechara, Shin worked as a lecturer and provider of content and e-learning content solutions for various start-ups. Whilst providing training to educators teaching students in English for Specific Purposes (ESP) at various colleges, she was invited to attend a Dharma talk given by His Eminence Tsem Rinpoche at Kechara House. This event rekindled her interest in Tibetan Buddhism, as she recalled the joy of accompanying her parents to teachings as a teenager.
Joining Kechara Media & Publications in 2006 as a volunteer, Shin assumed a full time position there as a Marketing Executive, with the aim of making His Eminence Tsem Rinpoche’s teachings available to more people around the world. Shin is now a member of the Tsem Ladrang Team, who takes care of His Eminence Tsem Rinpoche’s secular matters, enabling Rinpoche to focus on teaching the holy Dharma.
Shin states that when she decided to join Kechara full time, she had already decided to be of some benefit to others and spend the rest of her life doing only that. Working closely with His Eminence Tsem Rinpoche, seeing his tireless effort in helping others and spreading the Buddhadharma through the Gaden tradition despite tremendous challenges has made her realise that the next logical step is to become ordained as she has the opportune conditions to study with her Guru. For Shin this is also a great step forward to being fully committed to the cause of others and repaying others’ kindness through sharing the Dharma with others.
Pastor Adeline Woon (sangha to be)
Since finding her spiritual home here in Kechara, Adeline has made dharma work her life’s mission and wishes to dedicate herself fully towards the benefit of others.
Adeline stumbled across His Eminence Tsem Rinpoche's blog towards the end of 2010 and has been following his blog and Facebook page ever since. Since graduating from Dharma Drum Buddhist College Taiwan with a Masters of Arts in Religious Studies in July 2012, she returned to Malaysia and joined Kechara as a Senior Education Executive. Adeline was attracted by His Eminence’s straightforwardness and impressed at Kechara's growth under his guidance. To Adeline, His Eminence is someone who walks the talk, keeps his promises and sincerely cares for others displaying an excellent example of guru devotion, qualities that she seeks to develop herself.
Since finding her spiritual home here in Kechara, Adeline has made dharma work her life’s mission. It was in May 2013 that she officially requested His Eminence for ordination as a nun to dedicate her life fully for the dharma. According to Adeline, become ordained means that she is being true to her calling to live according to the dharma and be of benefit to others.
This however can only be achieved by meeting and studying under her root Guru. Adeline has been fortunate enough to have met with hers - His Eminence Tsem Rinpoche.
Pastor Niral Patel (sangha to be)
It is Niral’s motivation for full ordination to better himself, learn the teachings of our lineage in order to preserve them for future generations. He wishes to benefit others, just as he has benefited and is still benefiting from Tsem Rinpoche’s explanation of the Dharma.
Niral was born and raised in the UK, having graduated with a BA in Anthropology, he was working as a Financial Administrator for a Serviced Apartment & Hotel company as well as a Management Services company before stumbling across His Eminence Tsem Rinpoche’s Youtube channel, entirelyby accident. It was through His Eminence Tsem Rinpoche’s teachings that he began to understand the importance of practicing the Dharma, in order to benefit himself and others around him.
Having been in contact with one of Tsem Rinpoche’s long time students in the UK, he was encouraged to visit Kechara in late 2012 for a 10 day visit. At the end of the visit Tsem Rinpoche requested Niral to come to work at Kechara, to which he agreed.
Niral moved to Malaysia in February 2013 to work as an education coordinator at Kechara House, assisting the Education Division in the creation and implementation of the new education syllabus, teaching teenagers during the Kechara Sunday Dharma School. Ever since meeting Tsem Rinpoche, he has always been encouraged by Tsem Rinpoche to do more Dharma work and strive to better himself. It is with that in mind, that Niral has requested monastic ordination.
It is Niral’s motivation for full ordination to better himself, learn the teachings of our lineage in order to preserve them for future generations. He wishes to benefit others, just as he has benefited and is still benefiting from Tsem Rinpoche’s explanation of the Dharma.
Pastor Tan Gim Lee (sangha to be)
Gim Lee’s main focus is to guide and help anyone who steps through Kechara’s doors through Dharma sharing, counselling, performing pujas and other Buddhist services. She wishes to repay Rinpoche’s kindness by spreading Lama Tsongkhapa’s holy teachings and inspiring others on the spiritual path.
She discovered Kechara by chance in 2006 and started to participate Kechara's activities almost immediately especially the retreat to collect 10 million Migtsema recitations. In April 2006, when Gim Lee met H.E. Tsem Rinpoche and first listened to his teachings, she wept uncontrollably. Though she could not understand it at the time, she had finally found her perfect teacher. She is especially touched by Tsem Rinpoche's compassionate method of teaching by setting his own examples.
Having joined as a staff of Kechara House responsible for housekeeping in 2009, Gim Lee is now one of Kechara House's Front Desk Managers predominantly based in the retreat centre in Bentong, Pahang. She also teaches the Sunday Dharma Class and moderates Dharma discussions on Tsem Rinpoche's blog chat.
The many teachings she has received from Tsem Rinpoche have changed her priorities in life. She found answers to her questions about the purpose of life, and she has realised that the way to overcome the sufferings of pain and anger is by following the path of compassion and wisdom as taught by Lord Buddha. These realisations have led to her request to be ordained as a Sangha member.
As pastor now, and later as a Buddhist nun, Gim Lee's main focus is to guide and help anyone who steps through Kechara's doors through Dharma sharing, counselling, performing pujas and other Buddhist services. She wishes to repay Rinpoche's kindness by spreading Lama Tsongkhapa's holy teachings and inspiring others on the spiritual path.
Pastor Loh Seng Piow (sangha to be)
Loh Seng Piow developed a strong wish to help Rinpoche in spreading the Dharma to the world. With that determination, Loh Seng Piow chose not to pursue his PhD degree in Cambridge University (for which he had been offered a place), resigned from his research job, and joined Tsem Rinpoche as full-time Dharma worker, and has never looked back since.
Back in 2001, Loh Seng Piow had no inkling of just how involved in Dharma he would become. As a Masters degree-holder in Engineering, Loh Seng Piow was working as a research engineer in Singapore when he met His Eminence Tsem Rinpoche. Rinpoche’s talk left a strong impression on him and after a few encounters with Rinpoche, Loh Seng Piow started developing websites for Rinpoche and Kechara.
Loh Seng Piow was trained in science, but soon realised that there were many questions that science could not answer. At the same time, he also felt that science and technology are not the solution to human problems, as humans are much better off compared to thousands years ago, yet the problems in this world are still the same, if not more, and we do not seem to be happier than our ancestors.
Loh Seng Piow soon realised that the Dharma is the ultimate solution to human problems, and that the methods used by His Eminence Tsem Rinpoche are very suitable for this modern era. Loh Seng Piow developed a strong wish to help Rinpoche in spreading the Dharma to the world. With that determination, Loh Seng Piow chose not to pursue his PhD degree in Cambridge University (for which he had been offered a place), resigned from his research job, and joined Tsem Rinpoche as full-time Dharma worker, and has never looked back since.
Meeting Rinpoche was a very refreshing experience for Loh Seng Piow, as he never knew Dharma could be so unconventional yet maintain its essence. As Rinpoche’s personal attendant, Loh Seng Piow has had many incredible moments with Rinpoche and considers himself extremely fortunate because he sees real Dharma in action, both on and off the throne. It challenges him to practice Dharma 24/7. In this way, Rinpoche has blown away his old and persistent way of thinking, which was very much focused on the outer rituals of Dharma.
Having seen that Tsem Rinpoche truly embodies what he teaches, Loh Seng Piow is convinced beyond doubt that it is possible to develop our minds to a higher state, and ultimately achieving enlightenment. All these factors have propelled Loh Seng Piow to take a step further in his Dharma career to become ordained as a pastor in order to be even more effective in sharing and disseminating the Dharma to benefit others.
Pastor Yek Yee
Naturally an introvert, Yek Yee has transformed what was once her weakness into her strength; making what was once impossible now eminently possible.
Independence was forced upon Kok Yek Yee from the tender age of nine, when she had to juggle between work and school to make ends meet. Always the introvert, Yek Yee had few friends and had difficulty expressing herself. So it was unexpected when she chose a career in journalism.
Yek Yee excelled as an award-winning reporter with Guang Ming Daily and Nanyang Siang Pau. Her articles garnered her a fanbase, and in writing, she found an outlet for the thoughts and feelings that she could not verbalise. However, despite her success, Yek Yee was not satisfied. Temporary happiness was not what she was looking for – success, money, relationships, or fame was not the key.
In her search for happiness, Yek Yee met H.E. Tsem Tulku Rinpoche, who told her “don’t retaliate with your speech, but use your power of writing to express yourself”. This led her to join Kechara Media & Publications as a writer; subsequently she was appointed Senior Editor as well as a Liaison to His Eminence.
Yek Yee now holds a core role in Kechara Care, giving advice, tours, counseling and teachings to whoever walks through their doors. Through courage and determination, she has transformed what was once her weakness into her strength; making what was once impossible now eminently possible.
As a Pastor, her patience and open-mindedness developed through her journey with Kechara will bring comfort and solace, and her new-found ability to nurture and teach others will bring hope to many.
Pastor Lanse Chiah
Having been a Pastor for a year, Lanse wishes to continue with her integral duties by renewing her vows again.
Lanse graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from Jinan University in Guangzhou, China in 1999 and became a part-time lecturer for several years, teaching western medicine in a Traditional Chinese medical college in Kuala Lumpur.
For a long time, Lanse remained an atheist, subconsciously searching for a spiritual guru as she sought answers to questions she harboured in her mind, questions that had led her into a state of depression during her time at university. As such, she would often read philosophical books in her search for answers.
Lanse first came to know of Kechara in 2007, through her friend of over 10 years, Pastor Yek Yee. She was surprised to see a complete transformation in Pastor Yek Yee, whom she had always known as a non-spiritual person. The first book by Kechara that Lanse chanced upon was the Chinese version of Be Greedy. Naturally, Lanse was skeptical at first, thus she read the book in an attempt to find mistakes with the philosophy. However, she couldn’t find any and was left impressed by how logical the explanations in the book were.
In March 2009, Lanse joined Kechara Media & Publications (KMP) part-time to carry out Chinese translation and help with transcription. The following year, she contemplated upon whether to pursue a full-time medical or a Dharma career, finally deciding on the latter. Lanse came to realise that, although both careers share the same motivation of easing people’s sufferings, she felt that her work in Dharma could lead to a greater contribution for the sake of all sentient beings in a deeper, spiritual sense.
Having been a Pastor for a year, Lanse wishes to continue with her integral duties by renewing her vows again.
Pastor Han Nee
It was not until she witnessed how Rinpoche brought peace and comfort to her dying mother, that she realised she also wanted to touch others with the Dharma.
Lim Han Nee, a mother of two, is a retired secondary school principal. She retired in December 2000 after a 30-year career in education. She obtained her Master’s Degree in Education at Leicester University in the UK, at the end of 2001.
After gaining her master’s degree, Han Nee considered further options of embarking on a doctorate in education or spending her years in retirement, travelling and visiting family. At the same time, she was also in search of her spiritual path. She had begun exploring Theravadan and Chinese Mahayana Buddhism for answers to questions she had.
In December 2004, Han Nee attended a teaching retreat on the topic of the Lamrim and White Tara held by His Eminence Gelek Rinpoche. As the retreat proceeded, she found her questions were being answered. Then in June 2005, Han Nee was introduced to Kechara by her sister, where she met her spiritual guide, His Eminence Tsem Rinpoche, who has recently told her that she must go all the way in the Dharma for the benefit of others.
Han Nee had been a school guidance counsellor for nearly twenty years. However, it was not until she witnessed how Rinpoche brought peace and comfort to her dying mother, that she realised she also wanted to touch others with the Dharma.
A member of Kechara’s Puja Team, who conduct sponsored pujas in Shabten Khang, Han Nee is also a member of the Education Division with the portfolio of Content Development. Apart from this, Han Nee is also a member of the weekly Kechara Chat Time team.
Pastor David Lai
In 2014, with a sincere wish to benefit others, David decided to be ordained as a Buddhist pastor to continue serving the spiritual needs of the organisation.
David Lai has been a student of His Eminence Tsem Rinpoche for over a decade now and was one of the founding members of Kechara. He joined Kechara as a full time staff in 2005 and has been working in various departments beginning with the Kechara Paradise outlets.
Right from the beginning, David had been advised by His Eminence to go into writing. Overcoming various hurdles, David finally began his literary career with the publication of his first book and autobiography, There’s No Way But Up in 2009. The book charts his spiritual journey from his childhood and culminates in the meeting with His Eminence.
The positive feedback from this book led him to write various other publications like Vajrayogini and Other Power Places in Nepal – a pilgrim’s guide of Nepal, Tales My Lama Told Me – a book on short stories and Conversations in Love – a book on relationships. These books continue to inspire and bring people onto the Dharma.
Besides writing, David has found his passion in sharing the Dharma since his earlier days working in the Kechara Paradise outlets. Over the years, David has received innumerable teachings from His Eminence, ranging from public teachings to personal instructions and advice. He is known to passionately share these teachings whenever he can and to whomever he meets. In 2014, with a sincere wish to benefit others, David decided to be ordained as a Buddhist pastor to continue serving the spiritual needs of the organisation.
Pastor Henry Ooi
After following Rinpoche as a Dharma student for all these years, learning and practicing the Dharma, Henry knows the importance of the pastors’ role in Kechara founded by Rinpoche. He wants to become a pastor to serve Rinpoche, to serve Kechara, and to serve the public.
Born in 1952 in Penang, Henry moved to Kuala Lumpur in search of work after he finished his Form Five studies in 1969. He worked at different types of jobs and it was when he was jobless in 1997/8 that he met His Eminence Tsem Rinpoche at the house of his cousin, Ruby (now Dato’ Ruby Khong), when Rinpoche was giving a dharma teaching. At that teaching Henry was awed by how Rinpoche taught Dharma with simple yet profound explanations.
With the kind guidance, teachings and Dharma practices by Rinpoche including instruction to engage in their first spiritual retreat, Henry and his wife Angel started a small business that soon became profitable. A few years later after Kechara House Buddhist Association was founded, Rinpoche started to enrol students as liaisons and that was when Henry and Dato’ Ruby offered themselves. Later more students were elected as liaisons that saw the birth of Liaisons Council. The Liaisons Council is now known as the Board of Directors of which Henry is one of its members.
Currently Henry is the Project Director, overseeing the construction and completion of projects in the Kechara Forest Retreat. Prior to this appointment he was the Head of Department in Kechara Paradise retail outlets of which he served for about ten years. He still remains as its company director as well as director for most of the companies within Kechara. He served one term as vice president of Kechara House Buddhist Association from 2012 to 2103.
After following Rinpoche as a Dharma student for all these years, learning and practicing the Dharma, Henry knows the importance of the pastors’ role in Kechara founded by Rinpoche. He wants to become a pastor to serve Rinpoche, to serve Kechara, and to serve the public. As he aspires to be a monk as he grows older, being a pastor of Kechara will pave the way for his aspiration. Henry believes that as one gets older in life, one should have already prepared for the imminent, death. And what a beautiful death it will be, to die in Kechara Forest Retreat in a monk’s robes. This is the kind of death that Henry wants. But before the imminent death happens, Henry wants to continue working in Kechara Forest Retreat, serving the community and whoever comes into it in whatever way he can. And when he is not physically anymore to serve others, he will request instructions from Rinpoche to enter into retreats in Kechara Forest Retreat.
Pastor Patsy Gooi
All that Patsy wants now is to spend the rest of her life doing dharma work, dharma practices and being of benefit to others.
Formerly a full time housewife with plenty of free time, Patsy had the great fortune to visit Gaden Monastery and meet H.E. Tsem Rinpoche almost twenty years ago. That one week stay in the monastery changed her view of life. Prior to that, she had no spiritual inclinations but meeting Rinpoche stirred something inside her, and she realised that there was more to life than just eating, sleeping, shopping and having fun. Rinpoche’s approach to dharma was logical and practical but most importantly, he stressed that we should always focus out and work towards benefitting others. Rinpoche made dharma easy to understand and his advice was and still is, to “change inwardly, not outwardly.”
In 2009, after years of practicing and applying what she had learned from Rinpoche’s teachings, Patsy decided to set up a Kechara retail outlet in Penang to share the dharma with others. She knew that Rinpoche’s teachings were very applicable to the people of our time and that his activities would benefit others just as they had benefited her. She also wanted to repay the kindness of her Guru who had constantly helped and guided her. Today, Kechara Paradise Penang is not just a dharma shop but also organises puja sessions, animal liberation and dharma talks.
In 2010, again with Rinpoche’s blessings, Patsy set up the Kechara Soup Kitchen Activity Center in Penang. Saddened to see the plight of the homeless and urban poor on the streets, Patsy decided to practice “compassion through action” as taught by Rinpoche in the most active way she knows. Today, together with her team of volunteers, Patsy feeds the homeless and urban poor four times a week and provides basic food provisions to many hardcore poor families on a monthly basis.
All that Patsy wants now is to spend the rest of her life doing dharma work and dharma practices, and that she may be of benefit to others.
Pastor Albert Ratchaga
In 2008, Albert Ratchaga began working as a part timer in Kechara Paradise, but as he learned more about the works of Rinpoche and Kechara, Rinpoche’s kindness and compassion touched him deeply. He realised that his work gave his life more meaning and decided to join Kechara full time.
Through his work as a sales executive, Albert was able learn more Dharma from Rinpoche's teachings and use this wisdom to assist those who entered his store to overcome their problems, thus improving their lives.
Albert soon developed a deep wish to follow in Rinpoche’s footsteps and in 2016 was ordained as a Pastor to continue benefitting and serving others.
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
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UPCOMING TOPICS FOR OCTOBER / 十月份讨论主题
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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.
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.
Join us for the annual Ullambana Festival on Saturday August 10th at Kechara Forest Retreat and make the most of ...
Join us this weekend for SPIRITUAL SATURDAY in Kechara Forest Retreat! SATURDAY, 13 JULY 9.00 am Cook for the community ...
How To Clear Disturbances by Pastor Niral - Monday 8. July 2019 at 9 30pm in Kechara House, Jalan PJU ...
Kechara Pastor Tat Ming is conducting a blessing prayer for a traveling tour bus at our holy place, Kechara Forest ...
Kechara Pastor Tat Ming is conducting a blessing prayer for a traveling tour bus at our holy place, Kechara Forest ...
Kechara Pastor Tat Ming is conducting a blessing prayer for a traveling tour bus at our holy place, Kechara Forest ...
Kechara Pastor Tat Ming is conducting a blessing prayer for a traveling tour bus at our holy place, Kechara Forest ...
Kechara Pastor Tat Ming is conducting a blessing prayer for a traveling tour bus at our holy place, Kechara Forest ...
Kechara Pastor Tat Ming is conducting a blessing prayer for a traveling tour bus at our holy place, Kechara Forest ...
Join us this weekend for SPIRITUAL SATURDAY in Kechara Forest Retreat! SATURDAY, 6 JULY 9.00 am Spring clean Tara's abode ...
Dear Members & Friends, Please be INFORMED that the venue for the monthly DS puja will alternate between KFR and ...
Join us this weekend, Saturday, 29. June for SPIRITUAL SATURDAY in Kechara Forest Retreat! From 9.00 am to 2.30 pm. ...
Kechara House Puja Team performed an urgent Dorje Shugden puja and offered candle lights to Protector Dorje Shugden yesterday. May ...
Highlights of SPIRITUAL SATURDAY 22June 6月22日 Clean Dorje Sh ...
Highlights of SPIRITUAL SATURDAY 周六修行游亮点： 22June. 6月22日
Inner Peace Retreat in June 2019 in Kechara Forest Retreat. More info: http://bit.ly/2GvGl7A
Group picture of the end of the Inner Peace Retreat, June 2019. More info: http://bit.ly/2GvGl7A
Inner Peace Retreat Day 2: Debrief & Closing More info: http://bit.ly/2GvGl7A
Inner Peace Retreat Day 2: Debrief & Closing More info: http://bit.ly/2GvGl7A
Inner Peace Retreat Day 2: Debrief & Closing More info: http://bit.ly/2GvGl7A
Inner Peace Retreat Day 2: Sensory Discovery with Herbs More info: http://bit.ly/2GvGl7A
Inner Peace Retreat Day 2: Sensory Discovery with Herbs More info: http://bit.ly/2GvGl7A
Inner Peace Retreat Day 2: Sunrise Meditation More info: http://bit.ly/2GvGl7A
Inner Peace Retreat Day 2: Sunrise Meditation More info: http://bit.ly/2GvGl7A
Inner Peace Retreat in Kechara Forest Retreat, Day 1: Expression Through Art More info: http://bit.ly/2GvGl7A
Inner Peace Retreat Day 1: Walking Meditation at Tara Walk More info: http://bit.ly/2GvGl7A
Inner Peace Retreat Day 1 Meditation in Nature next to the Dream Manjushri Learn more about the Dream Manjushri here ...
Inner Peace Retreat, Kechara Forest Retreat, Day 1: Walking Meditation in Nature More info: http://bit.ly/2GvGl7A
Inner Peace Retreat Day 1: Walking Meditation in Nature More info: http://bit.ly/2GvGl7A
Inner Peace Retreat Day 1: Enjoy Your Delicious Lunch More info: http://bit.ly/2GvGl7A
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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 pagesUse this URL to link to this section directly: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/#messages-from-rinpoche
Previous Live Videos
About Rinpoche
Name
H.E. Tsem Rinpoche
Root Guru
H.H. Zong Rinpoche
Ordained by
H.H. the 14th Dalai Lama
Affiliations
Pukhang Khangtsen, Gaden Shartse Monastery
Founder and Spiritual Advisor, Kechara House Buddhist Association Malaysia
President, Tsem Rinpoche Foundation, Inc.
Honorary Doctor of Psychology, The Open International University
Must Know
Featured Authors
Devotional Songs
Sung by Mary Fewel Tulin, these mystical songs in praise of the guru originate from the Sikh tradition. Yet, they are applicable to all traditions for those who want to venerate their guru.
Mere Vich Na Guruji Gun Koi
Likhan Valya Tu Hoke
Recommended
Photos On The Go
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6 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
6 years ago
108 candles and sang (incense) offered at our Wish-Fulfilling Grotto, invoking Dorje Shugden's blessings for friends, sponsors and supporters, wonderful!
6 years ago
Dharmapalas are not exclusive to Tibetan culture and their practice is widespread throughout the Buddhist world - https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=193645
6 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
6 years ago
Fragrant organic Thai basil harvested from our very own Kechara Forest Retreat farm!
6 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.
6 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
6 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.
6 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.
6 years ago
One of the most recent harvests from our Kechara Forest Retreat land. It was grown free of chemicals and pesticides, wonderful!
6 years ago
Third picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
6 years ago
Second picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
6 years ago
First picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
6 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
6 years ago
Very powerful story! Tibetan Resistance group Chushi Gangdruk reveals how Dalai Lama escaped in 1959- https://bit.ly/2S9VMGX
6 years ago
At Kechara Forest Retreat land we have nice fresh spinach growing free of chemicals and pesticides. Yes!
6 years ago
Fresh eggplants grown on Kechara Forest Retreat's land here in Malaysia
6 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
6 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami – the first Buddhist nun ordained by Lord Buddha- https://bit.ly/2IjD8ru
6 years ago
Sacred Vajra Yogini
6 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha.
6 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.
6 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.
6 years ago
Wandering Ascetic Painting by Nirdesha Munasinghe
6 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
6 years ago
This is pretty amazing!
First Sri Lankan Buddhist temple opened in Dubai!!!
6 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
6 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
6 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
6 years ago
Part 2-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
6 years ago
Part 1-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
6 years ago
The great Protector Manjushri Dorje Shugden depicted in the beautiful Mongolian style. To download a high resolution file: https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
6 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
6 years ago
DON'T MISS THIS!~How brave Bonnie survived by living with a herd of deer~ https://bit.ly/2Lre2eY
6 years ago
Global Superpower China Will Cut Meat Consumption by 50%! Very interesting, find out more- https://bit.ly/2V1sJFh
6 years ago
You can download this beautiful Egyptian style Dorje Shugden Free- https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
6 years ago
Beautiful high file for print of Lord Manjushri. May you be blessed- https://bit.ly/2V8mwZe
6 years ago
Mongolian (Oymiakon) Shaman in Siberia, Russia. That is his real outfit he wears. Very unique. TR
6 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
6 years ago
Manjusri Kumara (bodhisattva of wisdom), India, Pala dynesty, 9th century, stone, Honolulu Academy of Arts
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Videos On The Go
Please click on the images to watch video
6 years agoPig puts his toys awayAnimals are so intelligent. They can feel happiness, joy, pain, sorrow, just like humans. Always show kindness to them. Always show kindness to everyone.
6 years agoAlways 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!
6 years agoBodha stupa July 2019-Rainy period
6 years agoCute Tara girl having a snack. She is one of Kechara Forest Retreat’s resident doggies.
6 years agoYour Next Meal!Yummy? Tasty? Behind the scenes of the meat on your plates. Meat is a killing industry.
6 years agoThis is DawThis is what they do to get meat on tables, and to produce belts and jackets. Think twice before your next purchase.
6 years agoDon’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.
6 years agoThey 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!
6 years agoWhat happened at Fair Oaks Farm?The largest undercover dairy investigation of all time. See what they found out at Fair Oaks Farm.
6 years agoShe’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
6 years agoOur 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
6 years agoThis is the first time His Holiness Dalai Lama mentions he had some very serious illness. Very worrying. This video is captured April 2019.
7 years agoBeautiful Monastery in Hong Kong
7 years agoThis dog thanks his hero in such a touching way. Tsem Rinpoche
7 years agoJoin Tsem Rinpoche in prayer for H.H. Dalai Lama’s long life~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYy7JcveikU&feature=youtu.be
7 years agoThese 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
7 years agoBeautiful new casing in Kechara for Vajra Yogini. Tsem Rinpoche
7 years agoGet 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.
7 years agoRecitation 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.
7 years agoBeautifulBeautiful sacred Severed Head Vajra Yogini from Tsem Rinpoche's personal shrine.
7 years agoMy little monster cute babies Dharma and Oser. Take a look and get a cute attack for the day! Tsem Rinpoche
7 years agoPlse 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
7 years agoCruelty of some people have no limits and it’s heartbreaking. Being kind cost nothing. Tsem Rinpoche
7 years agoSUPER ADORABLE and must seeTsem Rinpoche's dog Oser girl enjoying her snack in her play pen.
7 years agoCute!Oser girl loves the balcony so much. - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RTcoWpKJm2c
7 years agoUncle WongWe 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.
7 years agoTsem Rinpoche’s Schnauzer Dharma boy fights Robot sphere from Arkonide！
7 years agoCute baby owl found and rescuedWe rescued a lost baby owl in Kechara Forest Retreat.
7 years agoNice cups from Kechara!!Dorje Shugden people's lives matter!
7 years agoEnjoy a peaceful morning at Kechara Forest RetreatChirping birds and other forest animals create a joyful melody at the Vajrayogini stupa in Kechara Forest Retreat (Bentong, Malaysia).
8 years agoThis 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.
8 years agoChiropractic CHANGES LIFE for teenager with acute PAIN & DEAD LEG.
8 years agoBEAUTIFUL PLACE IN NEW YORK STATE-AMAZING.
8 years agoLeonardo DiCaprio takes on the meat Industry with real action.
8 years agoDo psychic mediums have messages from beyond?
8 years agoLovely gift for my 52nd Birthday. Tsem Rinpoche
8 years agoThis 59-year-old chimpanzee was refusing food and ready to die until...she received “one last visit from an old friend” 💔💔
8 years agoBigfoot sighted again and made it to the news.
8 years agoCasper is such a cute and adorable. I like him.
8 years agoDorje Shugden Monastery Amarbayasgalant Mongolia's Ancient Hidden Gem
8 years agoDon't you love Hamburgers? See how 'delicious' it is here!
8 years agoSuch a beautiful and powerful message from a person who knows the meaning of life. Tsem Rinpoche
8 years agoWhat 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
8 years agoThis video went viral and it's a must watch!!
8 years agoSEE 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
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.
- October 10, 2025 21:37Lou asked: Thank you for the update on the 26th incarnation of Tsem Tulku Rinpoche. I cried when I read this.No reply yet
- October 8, 2025 22:55Lou asked: Any word from the Dorje Shugden Oracles about the return of H.E. Tsem Tulku Rinpoche,pastor answered: Dear Lou, The unmistaken incarnation of H.E. Tsem Rinpoche has already been found. The announcement has been made on our FaceBook pages. His Eminence the 26th Tsem Rinpoche Drakpa Tenzin was officially recognised on September 18, 2024 by Panglung Gyalchen Dorje Shugden. You can view the post here: https://www.facebook.com/TsemTulkuRinpoche/posts/pfbid08ofcsEKxxqUqQasFdRAXiQMkDwknnerYzQ7xjhi99wt2svUt1YvBTKygpvrpzPLFl There is also a Long Life Prayer for the 26th Tsem Rinpoche available here for students to recite: https://www.facebook.com/TsemTulkuRinpoche/posts/pfbid02UVTUcuBXdmyYKuMtvWNryP6SDTEwZszBmqFWdKoFUoyPXNhp7LvDvxsRBrcNycMDl Thank you!
- October 2, 2025 10:10Liu asked: Dear Rinpoche My name is Liu. I unfortunately have been literately attacked and possessed by malevolent spirits due to practicing Buddhist chanting by myself at home without proper guidance and knowledge. The spirits (entities) have physical bodies and entered my skull and hijacked my brain everything since, causing constant headache and mental issues like, paranoia and anxeity. I’ve looked the whole internet up for this kind of issue, even Catholic exorcism but found no explanation until I watched your video “Why spirits like to enter your body”. It well explained their intention is to “borrow my body to experience human life”, like taste food, listen to music. However they are causing all kinds of trouble in my life and I want them to leave. So may I ask some advice on how to help myself? Regardspastor answered: Dear Liu, We are very sorry to read that this has been happening. There are many methods in Tibetan Buddhism to help deal with such situations. However, according to what you have written, the practice of Trakze will be extremely beneficial for you. You can find more information here: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/trakze-to-dispel-black-magic-spirits.html The article and resources cover everything you need to engage in the practice at home. You should aim for at least 1 mala of Trakze mantra a day, with an altar and offerings according to your means. If you should require any further assistance or would like to sponsors pujas to help the situation as well. Please contact us directly: https://www.kechara.com/contact/ I hope this helps.
- September 27, 2025 03:13Carolina Pandolfi asked: Hi, My name is Carolina Pandolfi and I'm from são paulo, brazil. Is there buddhist centers here in my country? I know djampel pawo buddhust center and Lana Michel's buddhist center, are there mire, please? Thank you very much, pastor answered: Dear Carolina Pandolfi, We would recommend Lama Michel's Buddhist Centre as we are of the same lineage. However, you can trying to search the internet for others, I'm sure there are more. Thank you.
- September 22, 2025 00:23Jason asked: I respectful ask. Why do we offer pearls, drums, and conch horns when these most certainly came from harming/ killing living beings. I ask this as Im concerned about my bodhisattva vow/ and pratimoksha vow. If we offer these things it would be like approving of the harm pastor answered: Dear Jason, Offering such things do not break or contravene either your bodhisattva vows or your pratimoksha vows. It is not approving of harm at all. If it was then the lamas and practitioners of all traditions would not be making them as offerings and they would all have broken their vows. This is not possible, otherwise there would be no Buddhist path to practice any more. All traditions of Buddhism offer something along these lines. For example, in the Theravada traditions conch shells are offered and also horns are offered. You can see them quite clearly at the main Theravada temples throughout the world. In the Tibetan traditions, pearls are offered, etc. You are not directly involved in any harm, hence it does not counter your vows. If however, you want to go one step further than the vows in how you uphold the principle of non-harm, then you can use synthetic versons. Or offer something else completely. For example, I know some people who are vegan, so they don't use any items from animals at all. But this is more of a personal choice than anything to do with upholding your vows. One of the reasons why conch shells are offered is because they represent the offering of sound. If you are not comfortable with offering conch shells, then you can offer something else that represents sound, for example a musica instrument or a representation of a musical instrument. Traditionally pearls were offered because they were extremely vaulable, and at the same time pracitioners prayed for the oysters from which they came, so they were blessed. As long as that pearl was part of an offering, merit was also generated for the sentient being from which it came, so they can benefit wherever they are. I hope these explanations help. You can adjust your offerings, that is not a problem, because offerings are made from the heart. If your heart is not comfortable with the traditional offerings, change the offerings to suit yourself but in keeping with the reasons why such offerings are made and in line with Buddhist principles.
- September 13, 2025 06:11Karen W asked: I'm choosing a new name for myself. I have Life Path 3 and I'm nearly 53 years old. Can you tell me which other numbers will lead to the happiest experience (love, community, legacy) with this LP? Thank youpastor answered: Dear Karen W, Since you are a LIfe Path 3, you can check your compatibility with other Life Path numbers here: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/numerology/life-path-3-compatibility.html We hope this helps.
- September 8, 2025 00:49Jay asked: Hello I recently took the 5 deity Chakrasamvara initiation and got the lung at a large empowerment ceremony; I have finished my preliminaries and my studies and am looking for the long sadhana but I can only find the middle and short ones. Tsem Rinpoche recommended that people do the long sadhana if they can and so I was wondering if you all would allow me to have access to itpastor answered: Dear Jay, Thanks for your question. For this, you should actually contact the lama or the organisers of the empowerment ceremony that you attend. They would be able to provide you with the correct long sadhana to use. The sadhanas used would depend on the tradition you are practicing and the specific lienage of 5-Deity Chakrasamvara that was passed on. This would actually also apply to the short and medium length sadhanas also. I hope this helps.
- August 24, 2025 13:20Jigme Naksang asked: I’m planning to buy a two wheeler vehicle this year i.e in 2025. But I’m confuse or reluctant to buy because 2025 is a black year, therefore what should I do?pastor answered: Dear Jigme Naksang, When thinking about buying, you can think on a more practical aspect such as affordability, safety, etc, first. This is always the main thing, then if you are confused/reluctant due to the year, you can either always wait until the next year if it's not an urgent thing, or you can engage in the practice of Dharma Protector to keep your protected if you buy and use it. I hope this helps.
- August 6, 2025 21:46Albert asked: Dear Pastor, 1. I have a 4-year-old toddler. He is not autism, but he is a bit slower in learning and writing compared to his peers. I would like to pray to Manshuri for him. May I know if there is any guidance on how to pray and visualise Manshuri such as release light upon my toddler etc and hopefully help him improve? 2. In today's era, may I know is there any method an ordinary person differentiate whether a guru is from a genuine tradition? If someone later discovers that the guru or tradition is not authentic, what should he or she do in that case? (note: they are various types of newly created 'tibetan' tradition /sect since 21centuries, or some claimed they are a particular Buddisatva emanation or possed any Geshe degree within a few years time etc) ; what should a disciple do if he or she is not agreed to their Guru attitude etc ? ; what is the impact if an ordinary person receive the unauthetic initiation or teaching from a 'fake guru' or 'fake tradition '? 3. May I know if it is acceptable to split the Vajrasattva 100-syllable mantra into several sessions throughout the day in order to complete the minimum of 21 recitations daily? Thank youpastor answered: Dear Albert. 1. In regards to your son, if you are reciting the prayers and mantras for him, visualise Manjushri on top of his head. As you recite, golden-yellow light emanates from his heart and washes over your son blessing him. At the end of the prayers, Manjushri dissolves into light and this dissolves into your son and blesses him even further. It would be good for you to teach Manjsuhri mantra to your son, so he can recite and encourage him to recite. But don't force him, just encourage. He can help your son with his current learning issues. 2. This is the reason why you need to check your guru is a qualified teacher before you accept them as your guru. You should not just rely on what that teacher tells you, but do your homework and research about that guru properly. For example, if he says he comes from a particular lineage or monastery, check with other lamas of that tradition or monastery. Sometimes there are people out there who claim to be teachers, but whose tradition/lineage is made up. Then when you research further, you will discover it's not a genuine lineage/practice. For those people who have received practices from such teachers, as long as they haven't been engaging in meditations that are higher in nature, such as tantric practices that move the energies in your body, etc. they should be okay. They should try to find a qualified guru to take as their teacher, explain to them the previous situation and if they have any specific advice, etc. 3. For the 21 Vajrasattva mantras a day, unfortunately they cannot be broken up into multiple sessions. They all need to be completed in one session to have the specific benefit of stopping karma you accumulate up until that point in the day from multiplying. But recitation of the mantra, however many times in a session is still great, because it will help purify karma. However, the specific benefit of stopping karma from multiplying on that day, can only be achieved by doing the 21 mantras together.
- August 4, 2025 16:16Jun asked: Hi dear pastor, I would like to ask about Dorje Shugden practice. According to our great teacher His Eminence Tsem Rinpoche, we may use vajra and bell during our daily Dorje Shugden practice. I did follow but I encounter that there are 2 little black mole appear on my second part of my left hand side middle finger and beside my nail of my right hand side ring finger. May I know do it indicate anything or should I stop it using vajra and bell? Thankspastor answered: Dear Jun, This is most likely due to not handling or using ritual items. If it is painful or you are worried, please seek professional medical advice from a doctor. In any case, you can slowly familarise yourself with using vajra and bell, don't try too much at one time, because using ritual instruments is not something our hands are used to normally, so our body can have different reactions, such as sores, blisters, wrist sprain, etc. I hope this helps.
- August 1, 2025 04:15David asked: Hello, Pastors and monks of Kechara. Good morning. I have been practicing Buddhism for about 10 years. I try to cultivate Bodhicitta, I try to put myself in other people's shoes to understand them better. But sometimes my patience fails me. I see so many evil people in the world, who kill other people, who steal things, who are cruel to animals and other people. There are adults who are like parasites, always sucking. They make others sick, and some have huge egos, and they think they are right to act like this, without worrying about causing suffering to others. Whenever I go to practice, I cannot have compassion for these people, because many of them are hypocrites, complacent, in good health to work, but they are lazy and prefer to extort people who are more fragile. So, when I go to practice, I do not want anything good to happen to these people. So I feel like a hypocrite, because I feel unworthy of practicing Dharma because my compassion is so limited. Sometimes I avoid praying for someone’s sake when I think that person doesn’t deserve it. What advice can you give me about this? Olá Pastores e monges de Kechara. Bom dia. Sou um praticante do Budismo há uns 10 anos. Tento cultivar a Bodhicitta, tento me colocar no lugar das pessoas para compreendê-las melhor. Mas às vezes minha paciência falha . Vejo tantas pessoas malignas no mundo, que matam outras pessoas, que roubam coisas , que são cruéis com os animais e com outras pessoas. Há pessoas adultas que são como parasitas, sempre sugando. Elas adoecem os outros, e algumas têm um ego enorme, e acham que estão certas por agirem assim, sem se preocuparem em estar causando sogrimentos para os outros. Sempre que vou fazer minhas práticas, não consigo ter compaixão por essas pessoas, porque muitas delas são hipócritas, acomodadas, têm boa saúde para trabalhar, mas são preguiçosas e preferem extorquir pessoas que são mais frágeis. Então, quando vou praticar, não tenho vontade que algo de bom aconteça com essas pessoas. Então, sinto-me hipócrita, porque sinto-me indigno de praticar o Dharma porque minha compaixão é muito limitada. Às vezes evito fazer preces pelo bem de alguém quando julgo que essa pessoa não merece. Que conselhos você pode me dar sobre isso? I have been practicing Buddhism for about 10 years. I try to cultivate Bodhicitta, I try to put myself in other people's shoes to understand them better. But sometimes my patience fails me. I see so many evil people in the world, who kill other people, who steal things, who are cruel to animals and other people. There are adults who are like parasites, always sucking. They make others sick, and some have huge egos, and they think they are right to act like this, without worrying about causing suffering to others. Whenever I go to practice, I cannot have compassion for these people, because many of them are hypocrites, complacent, in good health to work, but they are lazy and prefer to extort people who are weaker. So, when I go to practice, I do not want anything good to happen to these people. So, I feel like a hypocrite, because I feel unworthy of practicing the Dharma because my compassion is very limited. Sometimes I avoid praying for someone's well-being when I think they don't deserve it. What advice can you give me about this? pastor answered: Dear David, Thank you for your question. First, Bodhicitta itself cannot only be applied to some individuals and not others, because that is just compassion and loving-kindness, not Bodhicitta. When dealing with or thinking about difficult people, before we can generate compassion towards them, we have to do two things. The first is to reduce our negative feelings towards them. This is done through the practice of developing Equanimity between Persons. The Lamrim teachings are excellent in teaching you how to do this. Equanimity is the basis on which Bodhicitta is built, so it's very important. You can find these teachings in the Higher Scope teachings of the Lamrim texts, that teach about Bodhicitta. Another thing that you can do, is before thinking about being compassionate towards them, put yourself in their shoes, try to understand that person whom you find negative. What you find will surprise you. They are the way they are due to their own life experiences, what was done to them, what they felt, how others reacted to them, etc. And this is all due to karma. Whether we suffer in the usual sense of being hurt, is due to karma. But those people are also suffering from their delusions, and this is due to karma and all it is doing is creating more karma for them to suffer in the future. The Lamrim teachings explan this very well and can be used in meditation. I would highly recommend studying the Lamrim teachings. If you have already done so previously, revisit the teachings again. It will help you a lot in this regard. I hope this helps.
- July 21, 2025 13:40Вадим,Россия asked: Здравствуйте я являюсь почитателем Цем ринпоче и Дорже Шугдена,но к сожалению в нашей стране России нет дхарма центров или общин практикующих Дорже Шугдена,могу ли я просить духовного руководства в этом деле??pastor answered: Уважаемый Вадим, Спасибо за ваше сообщение. Да, конечно, мы можем помочь вам в духовных вопросах. Однако из-за разницы в языке это может быть немного сложно. Вы понимаете/можете общаться на английском? Вы можете написать нам напрямую, и мы поможем вам в дальнейшем: https://www.kechara.com/contact/ Спасибо
- July 8, 2025 00:54Frank asked: When I am doing my Trakze mantras can I visualize Trakze as the Garuda that he sits on? I feel closer to Trakze as the Garuda.pastor answered: Dear Frank, While Trake's garuda is actually a part of him, when we are engaged in the particular practice of a deity, we need to visualise their full form. There is reason behind this, because the deity's form itself when visualised has meaning and benefits that we receive when engaged in his practice. So although you feel closer to garuda, you should try to visualise the entire form, because you won't get the proper benefits of the practice. And actually, as mentioned earlier the garuda is actually Trakze. Try to recognise that when you are doing your mantras, and it will become easier to visualise Trakze. You will have the same closeness. I hope this helps.
- July 7, 2025 00:28Khang. asked: Hello Pastors! I have a question about: My morning daily practices: 1. Recite Boddhicitta prayers and chanting Diamond Sutra. 2. I will do short prayer to Lord Dorje Shugden compose by 5th DalaiLama before the dedication finally. Now, I had invited one statue of Holy Mother Vajra Yogini and I had wish to do prayers and tea offering to her daily provide by Rinpoche’s websites here. Therefore, where I can insert her practices into my morning daily prayers above. Thank you so muchpastor answered: Dear Khang, You can insert the Tea Offering Prayer to Vajra Yogini once you have finished the Bodhicitta Prayer and the Diamond Sutra. So do it before you start the prayers to Dorje Shugden. This follow the standard traditional method of structuring prayers. Thank you.
CHAT PICTURES
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14th October Blessed evening Dharma Sharing by Pastor Seng Piow Kechara Kuantan Study group.sam
6 days ago
Joyful hearts, open minds! This retreat group shines with shared purpose, laughter, and the light of Rinpoche's practice. Spot any differences? Join us again next time. Penang retreat 4-5th Oct 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
6 days ago
Yoga breathing exercise by Choong Soon Heng. Breathing in calm, breathing out clarity, an integral part for a successful retreat. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
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Glowing gently with butter lamp offering. This embodies the warmth of devotion and the light of awareness for all sponsors and retreatants. Penang DS Retreat 4-5th Oct, 2025. Uploaded by Jacinta from Kechara Penang Study Group
6 days ago
Retreatants helped preparing the sacred space with mindful intention—setting the ground for a mind transformative retreat. Penang DS Retreat 4-5th Oct 2025, uploaded by Jacinta. Kechara Penang Study Group
1 week ago
Best Relaxation Massage For Each Sign !
1 week ago
5th October Blessed day releasing fishes, birds fishing baits Kechara Kuantan Study Group by Sam
2 weeks ago
Our weekly DS puja, 27th Sept 2025. Next week there will be a retreat too and puja as well. Join in if you're in Penang! Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 weeks ago
Dorje Shugden puja completed on 20th Sept. Since we have a new Rinpoche's long life prayer, we've have been regularly recited that with Rinpoche's new mantra too. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
4 weeks ago
13th Sept 2025, Dorje Shugden puja led by William, photo taken by Siew Hong. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
1 month ago
A close-up shot of our offerings! Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
1 month ago
Inspired by Kin Hoe's (Ipoh) and Sam's (Kuantan) updates, here... introducing our No. 1 members, Mr. Teo and Aunt Betty. They are always early for preparation, cleaning, and arranging. Bottom pic is Hue & Mr. Loh. They are sharing and exchanging views on ritual practices that support spiritual practices before puja. KPSG by Jacinta.
1 month ago
Tormas are regularly being changed. It's solely the commitments from one of our dedicated members, Choong Soon Heng. Without him, we would not have gathered an abundance of merits. Thanks! Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
1 month ago
Some of the offerings offered during our weekly puja. These are the items sponsored by our sponsors. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
1 month ago
Here are two other completed Dorje Shugden puja done for the past weeks, led by Ong Siew Hong in the month of August. She's an exceptional umze in our group. Special thanks to those who joined the puja regularly. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
1 month ago
It's been a while since our last update. When KFR was busy organising, serving & helping visiting monks together with their chunks of activities in Bentong, back here in Penang, our small but sturdy Penang Study Group has been consistently having their weekly Dorje Shugden Puja @ every Saturday at 3 pm. Here's one update, completed on 6th September 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
1 month ago
Mr. Cheah Fook Wan offered Serkym to Dorje Shugden in Kechara Ipoh Centre today. So Kin Hoe (KISG)
1 month ago
Mr. Mannance Wong offered incense on behalf of Ipoh members before the puja starts. So Kin Hoe (KISG)
1 month ago
7th September animals liberation activities.Kechara Kuantan Study Group by Sam
2 months ago
29th evening DORJE SHUGDEN Puja lead by Pastor Seng Piow. Kechara Kuantan Study Group Sam
2 months ago
28th August Dharma Sharing by Pastor Seng Piow at Center Kuantan Study Group by Sam
2 months ago
26th August evening had our weekly Swift Return Puja..at Kechara Kuantan center..by Sam
2 months ago
Dharma sharing and DORJE SHUGDEN Puja done this evening. Kechara Kuantan Study Group by Sam
2 months ago
19th August has our weekly Swift Return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche. Kechara Kuantan Study Group by Sam
2 months ago
Kechara Ipoh Study Group carried out Gyenza Prayer recitation on Sunday, 17th August '25. So Kin Hoe (KISG)
2 months ago
14th August Dharma Sharing and DORJE SHUGDEN Puja done at Kechara Kuantan Study Group Sam
2 months ago
12th August evening had Swift Return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche Kechara Kuantan Study Group Sam
2 months ago
7th August Dharma sharing and DORJE SHUGDEN Puja done. Kechara Kuantan Study Group by Sam
2 months ago
Had our weekly Swift Return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche Kechara Kuantan Study Group by Sam
2 months ago
3rd August animals liberation activities done.Kechara Kuantan Study Group by Sam
2 months ago
First Dorje Shugden puja for the month of Aug, 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
31st July evening had our weekly DORJE SHUGDEN Puja lead by Pastor Seng Piow.Kechara Study Group Sam
3 months ago
#Throwback Weekly Dorje Shudgen puja led by William and attended by faithful Penang members. Kechara Penang Study Group, reported by Siew Hong and uploaded to blog by Jacinta.
3 months ago
#throwbackmemories 26th July, 2025 puja packages being sponsored. May sponsors' wishes be fulfilled. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
3 months ago
#Throwback 19th July 2025, Dorje Shugden puja cum Namasangiti recitation at 49, Jalan Seang Tek @ Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
3 months ago
29th July evening Had our weekly Swift Return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche. Kechara Kuantan Study Group Sam
3 months ago
Kechara members were setting up the offering items on altar before the puja started in Ipoh today. (So Kin Hoe, KISG)
3 months ago
Dared Lim has offered tea on behalf of Kechara Ipoh Study Group prior to the start of our puja in Ipoh. (So Kin Hoe, KISG)
3 months ago
Through the blessings from His Eminence Kyabje Tsem Rinpoche, Kechara Ipoh Study Group has carried out Dorje Shugden puja in Ipoh today. (So Kin Hoe, Kechara Ipoh Study Group)
3 months ago
24th July Dharma Sharing and DORJE SHUGDEN Puja done Kechara Kuantan Study Group by Sam.
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Beautiful question. You offer anything from your heart. Anything is fine. You can offer a whole mountain for him to build a retreat place in the Pacific Northwest or you can offer one single rose…it is the best you can. From your heart without any sense of miserliness.
Before offering, it is good to:
1. Recite the KING OF PRAYERS as your motivation for offering….It helps you to make the greatest connection. It is said what and how much you offer is how much you will recieve from your meeting with your teacher in the future. Again, that is according to your means.
2. When you meet your teacher for the first time or anytime it is excellent to recite the 8 lines of praise to Heruka/Vajra Yogini quietly and think you are praising all the Buddhas in ten directions/three times in the form of your teacher. If you don’t have the praises memorized, then you can think whatever is in the KING OF PRAISES, I wish it to be so and meet your teacher.
3.Purify all your offerings before you offer your teacher by burning incense and letting the smoke ‘permeate’ the offerings hence ‘cleaning’ them to be offered to someone holy and that will change your life. It is the awareness to treat this person you are going to meet very different than any other meeting.
I wish you luck and happiness and great spiritual success. For the meritorious, meeting the guru is the SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT EVENT OF OUR LIFE….
TR