David is a lay Buddhist pastor of Kechara and a longtime student of H.E. Tsem Rinpoche. Initially a reluctant writer, he now finds himself writing for a living and has published four books including his autobiography, There's No Way But Up and Conversations in Love.
David is a lover of Buddhist art and whenever he can, he shares his knowledge of the Dharma with everyone. Read more of his writings on his blog www.davidlai.me.
(By Pastor David Lai and Tsem Rinpoche) The great Buton Rinchen Drub (1290 – 1364) was one of the most erudite of scholars of Tibet. He was a prolific translator and is credited with having compiled the Kangyur collection that contains the Indian scriptures based on the spoken words of the Buddha, and the Tangyur...
(By Tsem Rinpoche and Pastor David) According to The Clear Mirror of the Royal Genealogies (Gyalrab Salwai Melong) attributed to Sakyapa Sonam Gyaltsen (1312-1375 CE), the great Tibetan Emperor Songtsen Gampo (617-47 CE) decided that he had to make various statues of his yidam (tutelary deity) to be of benefit to sentient beings within...
(By Tsem Rinpoche and Pastor David) Tulku is a Tibetan term for the ‘emanation body’ (Sanskrit: Nirmanakaya) of an enlightened being. This refers to one of the three main types of manifestations of an enlightened being who deliberately takes rebirth within samsaric existence in order to benefit sentient beings. In Tibet, the recognition of...
Within the lineage of Dorje Shugden’s incarnations, none is more illustrious than Panchen Sonam Drakpa. In that lifetime, he became the 15th Gaden Throne Holder and the Abbot of the Three Seats...
(By Tsem Rinpoche and Pastor David) Introduction The Dorje Shugden controversy began when the Dalai Lama made successive attempts to wrongly assert the nature of the Dharma Protector Dorje Shugden to be a harmful spirit. He had since issued numerous statements to the effect of banning the practice of Dorje Shugden. The following...
(By Tsem Rinpoche and Pastor David Lai) Dear friends, I was given a book called ‘Niguma, the Lady of Illusion’ recently. Although I have read bits and pieces about this dakini’s life online in the past, I did not really know much about her. Hence, reading this book was to be my first serious...
(By Tsem Rinpoche and Pastor David) www.davidlai.me A month ago, I was with Tsem Rinpoche and a bunch of other people in a car. In a conversation about China, Rinpoche suddenly asked us, “Why is Buddha Amitabha so prevalent in China?” Silence ensued for a few moments as everyone struggled to recall what they...
At the dawn of time, mankind lived in fear amidst primitive conditions. The world seemed to be controlled or influenced by powerful higher beings or gods...
Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen is perhaps one of the more notable previous lives of Dorje Shugden. In this incarnation, he is said to have made the promise to arise as a Dharma Protector to protect the precious teachings of his teacher Lama Tsongkhapa, thus laying the foundation for Dorje Shugden to manifest later, in another...
(By Tsem Rinpoche and Pastor David) His Holiness the 11th Panchen Lama Bainqen Erdini Qoigyijabu recently bestowed the Kalachakra initiation at his New Palace near Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Xigaze (Shigatse), southwest of the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. This is the first Kalachakra initiation to be held publicly in Tibet/China in the last...
(By Tsem Rinpoche and Pastor David Lai) Sakya Pandita Kunga Gyeltsen is commonly referred to by his abbreviated name, ‘Sapan’. He was one of the most famous 13th Century Tibetan spiritual masters and scholars of the Sakya tradition. Sakya Pandita was not his name but a title attributed to him due to his scholarly...
(By Tsem Rinpoche and Pastor David) Dear Friends, Cittamani Tara is one of Kyabje Zong Rinpoche’s three main practices that was conferred upon H. E. Tsem Rinpoche in Thubten Dhargye Ling in 1984. Kyabje Zong Rinpoche mainly practiced Heruka Cakrasamvara, Vajrayogini and Cittamani Tara intensely throughout his life and this is therefore one of...
(By Tsem Rinpoche and Pastor David) Dear friends, It is a well-known fact that Dorje Shugden has a long history of association and practice within the Sakya School of Tibetan Buddhism. In fact, Dorje Shugden was first enthroned and propitiated within the Sakya School before becoming a widespread protector practice within the Gelug tradition....
In the language of the Karuk natives, Mt Shasta is known as Úytaahkoo or ‘White Mountain’. It is an active volcano located at the southern tip of the Cascade Range in the Siskiyou County of Northern California. With an elevation of 14,179 feet (4321.8 m), this mountain is the second highest peak in the...
Dear everyone, I have chosen to write about this topic for Rinpoche’s blog because it fascinates me and it is something that many people are drawn to. Generally, people are afraid and yet they are strangely attracted to the paranormal. It does not matter if you are living in the West or in the East;...
During the 2015 Gelug Conference, the Dalai Lama claimed that Dharma Protector Setrap had given mistaken prophecies to Dagyab Rinpoche as well as monks from Minyak Khangtsen of Drepung Loseling Monastery...
Pope Leo X's papacy was known for making Rome a cultural and political centre of Europe but at the expense of the papal treasury due to his lavish spending. He also failed to take the development of the Protestant Reformation movement seriously...
A spiritual lineage refers to a line of transmission of teachings from teacher to student that can be traced back to the Buddha or a widely accepted attained master...
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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.
A great history of a great yogi which I do enjoy reading , reading over it again and again. Jetsun Milarepa was a famous Tibetan siddha, known as a murderer when he was a young man. Who later turning to Buddhism and becoming a highly accomplished Buddhist disciple. Generally considered as one of Tibet’s most famous yogis and spiritual poets, whose teachings are known among several schools of Tibetan Buddhism. Milarepa’s story is one of struggle, anguish, resolve, and triumph all of which make him recognizably. Practicing these teachings for many years in isolated mountain retreats in caves such as caves hidden deep in the mountains of Tsum Valley. That’s where Milarepa attained enlightenment and gained fame for his incredible perseverance in practice and for his spontaneous songs of realisation. Milarepa is said to be the first to achieve the state of Vajradhara in one lifetime. That’s incredible.
Thank you Rinpoche for great sharing interesting read
Visited this old post again, sharing the joy of Kechara House having made it into the Malaysian Book of Records for the Longest non-stop Lamrim Recitation. That’s wonderful , with so many people committing and fulfilling this great mission. The power of collaboration and unity in achieving goals, working together as a team making it a success into the Book of Records is amazing. Looking at those pictures in the blog tells more than a thousands words.
Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.
H.H Kyabje Zong Rinpoche was a Gelug Lama, a sharp analyst, master of philosophical debate and a Tantric practitioner. Kyabje Zong Rinpoche was a disciple of the third Trijang Rinpoche, junior tutor of the 14th Dalai Lama. Rinpoche was known as a strong, detached and wrathful lama having impeccable knowledge of all rituals, art and science. Thousands of Westerners have received and benefited from his teachings both in the West and in India and gave many empowerments and teachings as well. Kyabje Zong Rinpoche was renowned for his many actions of powerful magic . We are fortunate and blessed listening to the powerful voice of Kyabje Zong Rinpoche’s precious teachings as in this blog.
Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.
My name is Jonathan Helm, I’m from Michigan USA i contacted HIV 2023 after i was tested positive i tried all means but was not working on till i saw the wonderful work of DOCTOR ZACK BALO and i contacted him. that was how i was cured after taking his herbal medicine for two weeks, contact him today through his email address wiseindividualspell@gmail.com or visit his website https://wiseindividualspell.webnode.com
Visiting Tibet, holy Gaden Monastery is everyone dream and a once life time. Of course if we have the means to visit again will be great. End of December 2008 and early January 2009 our Guru H E Tsem Rinpoche with a small group students visited Tibet. Thousands of pilgrims, visitors and tourists around the world have visited this incredible holy land for the last 600 years. Tsem Rinpoche visited Tibet for the first time with an oxygen tank. I am fortunate to visit this holy place with my Dharma brothers and sisters years back.
With our Guru blessing we went without any without any hitch. Visited most of the monasteries and could feel the powerful energies there. Looking at those pictures in this blog reminds me of trip there.
Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.
Interesting….. a ground breaking documentary by world BBC where everyone should watch. BBC did mentioned and documented that Jesus was a Buddhist monk and that he had spent some years in India. I would not know about this till I came across this blog. Many people most probably too. Interesting watch one should not miss. Jesus was a religious leader revered in Christianity, one of the world’s major religions. He is regarded by most Christians as the Incarnation of God. Historical evidence indicates that Jesus was well acquainted with Buddhism. Historical evidence indicates that Jesus knew about Buddhism. Other evidence, while perhaps apocryphal, indicates that he spent most of his so-called lost years outside Judea, possibly in Kashmir to study Buddhism exclusively.
Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.
The Great Buddhas of Bamiyan were two monumental Buddhist statues built around 600 CE. A holy site for Buddhists on the Silk Road, historically a caravan route linking the markets of China with those of the Western world. The two most prominent statues were the giant standing sculptures of the Buddhas .It was the site of several Buddhist monasteries where monks at the monasteries lived as hermits. It was until in 2001, both statues were destroyed by the Taliban . Before being blown up in 2001, they were the largest examples of standing Buddha carvings in the world .Buddhism was eliminated in Afghanistan by the 13th century during the Mongol conquests. Sadly all statues depicting humans in Afghanistan was destroyed. They were perhaps the most famous cultural landmarks of the region, and the site was listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Despite the Buddhas’s destruction, the ruins continue to be a popular culture landmark, where many locals, pilgrims and tourist visit the site.
Thank you Rinpoche for this interesting blog.
Ven. Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche was born in Eastern Tibet, recognized as the fourth reincarnation of Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche. Well he was known for his purity in holding his vinaya vows. Even though he left Tibet in 1959 and settled in India, he had inspired, and supported the Sangha community, working tirelessly giving teachings at Sera Monastery in India . He also continued in protecting, preserving and propagating the Buddhadharma all over the world. H E Tsem Rinpoche first met him about 15 years in Sera Monastery and the last time in Gaden Monastery. Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche knew that Tsem Rinpoche in New York back in 2013 and decided to meet up with Rinpoche. Looking at those beautiful photos tells all . Its truly rejoiced moment .
Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing with precious photos taken during Rinpoche visit.
The general preliminaries are the four contemplations on precious human body, impermanence and death, cause and effect of karma, and the defects of samsara. The special preliminaries are taking refuge, arousing bodhicitta, the recitation and meditation of Vajrasattva, mandala offerings, and guru yoga.The purpose of life is to benefit other sentient beings and the greatest benefit we can offer them is to liberate them from their suffering and its causes. We have to purify all the negative karma and defilements we have collected over our beginning-less rebirths and accumulate extensive merit. These are the conditions necessary for us to actualize the path. Well we have received just this once the most precious human life ,we have to make our life as meaningful as possible. The purpose of doing preliminary practices is for us to purify obstacles to achieving realizations of the path to enlightenment for the sake of all sentient beings. I am still doing my best .
Great sharing thank you Rinpoche and Pastor David for this important write up .
My name is Jonathan Helm, I’m from Michigan USA i contacted HIV 2023 after i was tested positive i tried all means but was not working on till i saw the wonderful work of DOCTOR ZACK BALO and i contacted him. that was how i was cured after taking his herbal medicine for two weeks, contact him today through his email address wiseindividualspell@gmail.com or visit his website https://wiseindividualspell.webnode.com
The Heart Sutra teaches emptiness through the epitome of compassion. It is often said that, the heart of emptiness is compassion. It’s an attribute by which we sees the suffering of another and experiences true empathy for them. This empathy, in turn, leads the person to reach out and share in the person’s suffering. By helping them to endure whatever they are going through regardless of race and religion. Our prime purpose in this life is to help and benefit others. Well if we can’t help them, at least don’t hurt them. Treat others as we would like others to treat us. Always wish upon others and showing kindness to those who are feeling sad or upset to help them feel better. Lend a shoulder to them to lean on. Emptiness can be explored through meditation and contemplation. By observing the impermanence and interdependence of all things, we can gradually come to understand the true nature of reality. We have to understand the actual words of the Heart Sutra and its meaning within the Buddhist tradition as well as the meanings of emptiness. Will revisit this blog to read, learn more .
Thank you Rinpoche for this profound teachings.
The concept of Dharma is considered to be accessible and applicable to everyone, regardless of their religious background. Dharma, in its essence, is about understanding and living in accordance with universal principles of righteousness and ethical conduct. The core of the doctrine of dharma, especially in Buddhism, is about understanding the nature of suffering, the cause of suffering, the possibility of ending suffering, and the path to liberation through ethical conduct, mindfulness, and wisdom. Dharma is the essential teachings to transform our mind towards that of an enlightened being. Learning and putting what we learn into practice helped us to become a better person. Dharma is for everyone, reading those stories as in the blog give us a clear understanding. Nor matter what religion we are , we are taught to be loving, compassion and living peacefully.
Thank you Rinpoche for these great teachings.
Generosity is giving more than we can, and pride is taking less than we need. Giving is an action; generosity is a matter of the heart. Real generosity toward the future lies in giving all to the present. Sharing one’s resources and helping others in need. We have not lived today until we have done something for someone who can never repay you. A kind gesture can reach a wound that only compassion can heal.
Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this article.
n Buddhism, Dharma refers to the teachings of the Buddha and the true nature of reality. It also encompasses principles like the Eightfold Path, which guides individuals towards enlightenment and liberation from suffering. A Dharma attitude involves fulfilling one’s responsibilities and duties towards oneself, others, and the environment. Dharma work helps us to focus on benefiting others instead of ourselves. Each one of us has different ideas, approaches and methods to do dharma work. As long as its benefits others and
taking responsibility for our own actions transforming others with love and generosity. It is important to embrace our imperfections as embracing puts us on a better path of acceptance and self-discovery.
Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this.
Buddhism is one of the most ancient belief systems and is practiced today by nearly 350 million people around the world.
Bettany Mary Hughes is an English historian, author, and broadcaster, specialising in classical history. Bettany Hughes travelled to the seven wonders of the Buddhist world. Where she documented a unique insight into the seven wonders that explained the long and rich history of Buddhism 2500 years ago . Truly fascinating documentary that’s one should watch. Started off her journey with Bodh Gaya in India, the Bodanath Stupa in Nepal, the Temple of The Tooth in Sri Lanka, Wat Pho Temple in Thailand, Angkor Wat in Cambodia, the Giant Buddha in Hong Kong and the Hsi Lai Temple in the United States. At each location, she meets with Buddhist scholars who explain the different concepts that form the core of Buddhist philosophy, giving insight into the long and rich history of Buddhism. Interesting sharing.
Thank you Rinpoche.
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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!
Dear everyone... This is a good condensed talk I gave on Guru Yoga of Tsongkapa. This is the one you should share with others when they are interested in a not too lengthy explanation. It is the perfect practice for everyone who wants simplicity yet effective blessings. You can share this with more people, it will be good.
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15 minutes ago
Had our weekly Swift Return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche Kechara Kuantan Study Group..Sam
12 hours ago
24th May, Dorje Shugden puja completed. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
12 hours ago
#Throwback 17th May 2025, Dorje Shugden puja completed. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
1 week ago
22nd May we had our weekly Swift Return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche this evening. Kechara Kuantan Study group.. Sam
2 weeks ago
18 th May sunny Sunday to start off our monthly animal liberation activities.. Saving hundred thousand lives from pet-shop.Kechara Kuantan study group Sam
2 weeks ago
Last but not least, group photo take. after puja and incense offerings completed. Happy Wesak's Day to all. 12th May 2025. Uploaded by Jacinta.
2 weeks ago
Puja started at 2 pm with Pastor Patsy giving Dharma talk and presenting 8 auspicious on the altar. What a great way to start the puja! May Rinpoche return swiftly, witnessing the Dharma growth in Penang, a northern state, West of Malaysia. Uploaded by Jacinta
2 weeks ago
There are visitors who came specifically to pay homage to H. E. Tsem Tulku Rinpoche as well as our members arriving for the puja. Uploaded by Jacinta
2 weeks ago
Mostly our relatives and members of the group came to pay homage to Buddha during the day. Generating much merits on Wesak's Day. Uploaded by Jacinta
2 weeks ago
Offerings are made on all altars. It was being decorated delicately by the members. Wesak's Day Celebration at Penang Dorje Shugden on 12th May (Mon). Uploaded by Jacinta.
2 weeks ago
Group's photo after preparation for Wesak has completed. Taken on 11th May @ Penang Dorje Shugden Temple. Uploaded by Jacinta
2 weeks ago
Wesak's Day preparation on 11th May (Sun) : Penang Dorje Shugden. Upload by Jacinta
2 weeks ago
15 May Had our weekly Swift Return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche this evening.kechara Kuantan Study Group.Sam
3 weeks ago
Completed Dorje Shugden puja @ 3rd May 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 weeks ago
9th May.. Some of the Offerings during yesterday puja.Kechara Kuantan Study Group ..Sam
3 weeks ago
Had our weekly Swift Return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche this evening.Kechara Kuantan Study Group.Sam
3 weeks ago
Meditation Sharing & Practice @ Kechara Ipoh Study Group - Guan Sun
1 month ago
Beautiful Gyenze Statue at Kechara Kuantan with an abundance of offerings .. Kechara Kuantan Study Group.. Sam
1 month ago
Offerings to the Buddha during DS puja. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
1 month ago
26th April 2025, completed Dorje Shugden puja with recitation of Namasangiti, led by William. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
1 month ago
27 th April cleaning of Gyenze Chapel. Kechara this afternoon.Kuantan Study group..sam
1 month ago
Had our DORJE SHUGDEN Puja this evening .May HE Tsem Rinpoche swiftly return to KFR at BENTONG. Kechara Kuantan Study Group..Sam
1 month ago
Beautiful Lama tsongkhapa Statue at Kechara Kuantan. Kechara Kuantan Study Group by Sam
1 month ago
Pastor Seng Piow led the puja team members of the Kechara Penang group. Uploaded by Jacinta.
1 month ago
Completed Dorje Shugden puja at Penang chapel. 19th April 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
1 month ago
A beautiful day with blue clear sky to start off releasing fishes.Saving thousands of lives ..fishes birds and fishing baits.kechara kuantangroup Sam
1 month ago
Yesterday had our weekly Swift return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche. Kechara kuantan group Sam
1 month ago
Periodically, tormas will be replaced with new ones by Choong Soon Heng. The teardrop and round shape specially made and prepared by Siew Hong. Due to their efforts, our puja is complete with the necessary offerings recommended by Rinpoche. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
1 month ago
Various 'kuih-muih' offered to Buddhas, generating tremendous merits for both the recipients and sponsors. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
1 month ago
Completed Dorje Shugden @12th April, 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
1 month ago
Offerings were prepared before Dorje Shugden puja started on Sunday, 13th April in Kechara Ipoh Study Group centre (Kin Hoe)
1 month ago
Mr. Mannance Wong offered lights on behalf of all in Kechara Ipoh Study Group before the start of the puja (Kin Hoe)
2 months ago
Come on, Smile! A quick and easy way to make others happy instantly before we start our puja today. 5th April, 2025 Dorje Shugden puja at Penang chapel. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Today's flower offerings @5th April, 2025. Dorje Shugden weekly puja at Kechara Penang Chapel at No 49, Jalan Seang Tek. Uploaded by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Here are some of the offerings to the Buddha @ 5th April, 2025. Uploaded by Jacinta
2 months ago
Mdm.Betty & Mr. Teo came very early for setting up & cleaning. Dorje Shugden puja @every Saturday 3pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
We gathered for a group photo after the Dorje Shugden puja ~29th March 2025. Kechara Pennag Study Group by Jacinta
2 months ago
Deepest and most sincere gratitude for Irene's invaluable and precious Dharma sharing. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 months ago
Welcome Irene Lim, most senior student of H. E. the 25th Tsem Tulku Rinpoche to our Penang chapel. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 months ago
Offerings to Buddhas - 29th March. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta