The Jonang Lineage

Jan 3, 2016 | Views: 3,616

(By Tsem Rinpoche)

When I was 15 years old and still living in Howell, New Jersey, I found out that H.H. the Dalai Lama would be visiting Wisconsin to give the first ever Kalachakra initiation in the West. I was so excited! Many Kalmyks who lived in my town had booked buses and hotels to attend the initiation. I wanted to go for the initiation so badly too! But, even though my parents had initially agreed to let me go as long as I earned my own money for the bus fees and all, which I did by working part time for about three months, they broke their promise and in the end, forbade me from attending the initiation.

So, I never had the fortune to receive Kalachakra from His Holiness, but I have deep trust and faith in this practice. I was inspired to share a little about the Jonang Lineage with all my readers, because it is where the roots and the lineage of the Kalachakra practice come. One of the prized practices and systems to enlightenment within the Jonangpa lineage is Kalacakra. I wanted to therefore share more about this profound lineage to all of you. The current head of the Jonangpa lineage is His Holiness Kalka Jetsun Dampa Rinpoche who is the supreme lama of the Buddhism of Mongolia. It is good to have more knowledge of other lineages and practices.

Tsem Rinpoche 

Left to right: Venerable Telo Rinpoche, His Holiness Kalka Jetsun Dampa Rinpoche of Mongolia and Tsem Rinpoche. I was was very fortunate to have an audience with Kalka Jetsun Dampa Rinpoche and he even visited my new house in Gaden Shartse Monastery and conferred a blessing during this time. His Holiness Kalka Jetsun Dampa who is the incarnation of Taranatha or Zanabazar has since entered clear light and passed away.

 


 

Origins of the Jonang Lineage

The Jonang Lineage can be traced back to the early 12th-century master Yumo Mikyo Dorje, a lineage holder of the Kalachakra Tantra. He was a disciple of Somanatha, the Kalachakra master from Kashmir who had also translated the Vimalaprabha – the great Kalachakra commentary into Tibetan with Dro Lotsawa. The master Yumo was also said to have received the Zhentong Madhyamaka teachings in a vision while practicing the Kalachakra Six-limbed Yoga in the region of Mt. Kailash. However, he would only propagate Zhentong as a “secret doctrine” to his closest disciples.

The Jonang name was derived from its mother monastery, Jomonang Monastery, which was situated in South Central Tibet. The master Kunpang Tukje Tsondru (1243-1313) founded this monastery in 1294. The layout of the monastery was based on the traditional way the Kingdom of Shambhala was depicted. In his lifetime, the master Kunpang Tukje managed to gather and compile the six yogas of Kalachakra at that time.

In general, the Jonang tradition is the primary lineage holder of the Dro transmission of the Kalachakra Tantra, the six yogas of the Kalachakra completion stage and the Zhentong Madhyamaka teachings.

 

Jonang Kalachakra 

A very old painted statue of Kalachakra in Jonang Monastery

Kalachakra literally means the ‘Wheel of Time’ in Sanskrit. The Kalachakra Tantric system is one of the most advanced Tantric systems within Tibetan Buddhism. It was one of the last Tantric systems to be brought over from India to Tibet via the last transmission of the teachings before Buddhism was wiped out in India by successive Muslim invasions.

Although this Tantric system is very advanced and esoteric, there is a tradition of offering it to large public audiences. It is the practice to give such public initiations to plant as many powerful seeds or causes as possible for those in the audience to be reborn in Shambhala. Shambhala is a place on earth that is described in the commentaries to be a hidden land ruled by enlightened kings and that the Kalachakra Tantra is the primary practice of the populace of this kingdom. The king of Shambhala is both the ruler and the one to bestow initiation and commentary of the Kalachakra Tantra. 

King Suchandra, the first Dharma King of Shambhala, received the Kalachakra practice directly from the Buddha himself

In fact, the Kalachakra Tantra states that Suchandra, an earlier King of Shambhala, requested Buddha Shakyamuni to teach a method to practice the Dharma without renouncing worldly responsibilities. In response to his request, the Buddha taught the first teachings on Kalachakra in Dharanikota, which is near modern Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh in Southeastern India. This was done miraculously simultaneously with another teaching given by the Buddha on Vulture’s Peak, in the state of Bihar.

Along with the king, ninety-six minor kings and emissaries from Shambhala who were amongst the retinue of the king also received the teachings. In this manner, the Kalachakra Tantra was first transmitted directly to Shambhala, where it was kept and practiced for hundreds of years. Successive kings of Shambhala, Manjushrikirti and Pundarika, were said to have composed the condensed Shri Kalachakra Laghutantra and its main commentary, the Vimalaprabha that is at the heart of the Kalachakra texts.

Within Tibet, the Kalachakra Tantra has many lineages but amongst them, there are two main lineages, the Dro and Ra lineages. The Ra lineage descends from the Kashmiri master Samantashri and the translator Ra Lotsawa Dorje Drak. The Ra lineage eventually found a prominent place within the Sakya school, where great masters like Sakya Pandita, Drogon Chogyal Phagpa and so forth held the lineage. On the other hand, the Dro lineage descends from the Kashmiri scholar Somanatha, who traveled to Tibet in 1027 AD and his translator Dro Lotsawa Sherab Drak, whose name became synonymous with this transmission of the Kalachakra.

The Dro lineage of Kalachakra eventually became an integral part of the Jonang lineage through its founder Yumo Mikyo Dorje and Kunpang Tukje Tsondru. Then, the Jonang scholar Taranatha left his mark on the lineage by developing this Tantra with his commentaries and teachings. In the 17th century, the Great Fifth Dalai Lama suppressed the Jonang lineage for political reasons. Ironically, it was also during the time of the Fifth Dalai Lama’s forced conversion of Jonang monasteries that the Gelug school absorbed much of the Jonang Kalachakra tradition.

Today, the Kalachakra Tantra is disseminated within all schools of Tibetan Buddhism but it is featured prominently within the Gelug lineage. It is also the main practice of existing Jonangpas that survived in several monasteries in Kham, Qinghai and Sichuan. 

A traditional thangka of the kingdom of Shambhala, ruled by enlightened kings that proliferate and practice Kalachakra.

 

Jonang Zhentong  

According to the Jonang tradition, Zhentong literally means ‘other-emptiness’ or the view of extrinsic Emptiness. In other words, Zhentong is an interpretation of the Madhyamaka view of the nature of reality and the mind. The Madhyamaka system was derived from the Buddha’s Third Turning of the Wheel of Dharma, which forms the final set of discourses that the Buddha taught.

According to Zhentong teachings, the Madhyamaka view of Emptiness is an understanding of the mind and reality in order to reconcile the paradox of a lack of permanent essence (Sunyata/Emptiness) and the permanent enlightened nature of the enlightened mind (Tathagatagarbha/Buddha nature). Ultimately, Zhentong is a view of how the ultimate nature of reality is empty of inherent existence aside from one’s own enlightened Buddha nature.

Zhentong holds that the relative truth of reality is empty of its own intrinsic findable existence. This Emptiness of inherent existence or “rangtong” is considered to be solely the nature of relative reality while the ultimate reality is understood to be empty of everything aside from oneself. That is why transient tangible experiences remain devoid of inherent and findable existence while the boundless luminous nucleus of Buddha nature within all beings remains intangible and unchanging.

This enlightened Buddha nature is thus regarded as the permanently pure nature of awareness. It is this pure mind that is devoid of its distorted perceptions. This is likened to an embryo or a womb and this enlightened essence (Tathagatagarbha) provides the potentiality for living beings to be reborn into fully awakened Buddhas.

 

The Suppression of the Jonang Lineage

The Great Fifth Dalai Lama unified Tibet under his rule and had to suppress the Jonang tradition in order to maintain power

In the 17th century, the Fifth Dalai Lama was enthroned by Panchen Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen and came to power and was proclaimed the temporal and spiritual leader of Tibet with the backing of the Mongol army. This was done to counter the growing threat of the Kagyupas, who were backed by the King of Tsang.

The Kagyupas were not the only ones who posed a threat to the Gaden Podrang, the newly formed government of the Fifth Dalai Lama. The Jonang lineage came under the suppression of the Gaden Podrang. The apparent reason for the clampdown was the philosophical Zhentong view of Emptiness that was deemed heretical. Consequently, Jonang books were burned, its libraries and printing presses sealed and Jonang monasteries forcibly converted into Gelug.

However, the real reason was because the Jonang had supported the Tsangpa king before the uprising and may have posed a threat to the Gelug, thus committing treason. Therefore, the Fifth Dalai Lama believed that the Jonang monasteries had to be closed and converted in order to set a precedent and a warning to other monasteries not to engage in politics and endanger the stability of the nation.

The Jonang Lamas and lineage fled beyond the Gelug sphere into faraway Kham and Amdo where they continued to flourish. Today, they still uphold their lineage and practice of the completion stage of Kalachakra along with the philosophical Madhyamaka Zhentong system in these areas.

 

Jonang Lineage Holders

Yumo Mikyo Dorje was said to be meditating and practicing the Six Yogas of Kalachakra when the realization of Zhentong dawned in his mind

 

Yumo Mikyo Dorje 

Yumo Mikyo Dorje was the 11th Century student of the Kashmiri scholar Somanatha and became a great Kalachakra master. He became known as the earliest Tibetan proponent of the Zhentong view of ‘other-emptiness’, which was a philosophical system of understanding the absolute nature of reality. This was emphasized within the Kalachakra Tantra and also the Buddha’s teachings on the Buddha nature inherent in all sentient beings as expounded during the Third Turning of the Wheel of Dharma.

It was believed that he received the Zhentong teachings while practicing the Kalachakra Six Yogas in the vicinity of Mount Kailash. He had formulated his view in much the same way as how Dolpopa Sherab Gyeltsen would do later on but without explicit terminology to define this view. Thus, many would come to view him as the originator of the Zhentong view instead of Dolpopa Sherab Gyeltsen.

From Yumo Mikyo Dorje onwards, the Dro lineage of Kalachakra was transmitted through the lineage-holders Dharmeshvara, Namkha Ozer, Machig Tulku Jobum, Drubtob Sechen, Choje Jamyang Sarma and Choku Ozer. Choku Ozer in turn became the teacher of Kunpang Tukje Tsondru who became the actual founding father of the Jomonang Monastery.

 

Kunpang Tukje Tsondru

Kunpang Tukje Tsondru founded Jonang hermitage and monastery

The master Kunpang Tukje Tsondru was born in 1243 in the Dok region of Tsang. In the course of his life, he studied at several monasteries in U and Tsang, of which the most famous was the great Sakya Monastery.

While he was staying at Jamyang Sarma Monastery of Kyandur, the master Kunpang received the transmissions of all the major treatises and teachings possessed by the great Choku Ozer. Prior to this, he had received and studied the Ra tradition of Kalachakra and he now received from Choku Ozer the Kalachakra initiation, the explanation of the Kalachakra Tantra, the great Vimalaprabha commentary, and an experiential transmission of the Kalachakra completion-stage practices of the Six-Branch Yoga in the Dro tradition.

In the end, the master Kunpang received and practiced seventeen different lineages of the Six-Branch Yoga of Kalachakra. When he was meditating on stopping vitality, which is the third of the six branches, it is said that the vital winds of the five elements became so forceful that he gained a high level of clairvoyance. Consequently, he gained visions of countless deities, such as the eleven-faced form of Avalokitesvara.

After that, the master Kunpang became an itinerant renunciate, wandering from hermitage to hermitage. Henceforth, he became known as Kunpang, which means renunciate. While he was at the famous Se Kharchung Hermitage, a whole assembly of Kalki emperors of Shambhala appeared to him in a vision and bestowed their blessings for him to compose a commentary on the Kalachakra Tantra. While he was at Kacho Deden Hermitage, he composed a series of texts on the practice of the Six-Branch Yoga of Kalachakra. At this time, he also experienced a vision of Kalachakra, and received a divine prophecy. These texts would be the first Tibetan and extensive commentary for the Six-Branch Yoga of the Kalachakra.

He also beheld the face of Goddess Nakmen Gyalmo, who entreated him to reside at the very place where he would later establish Jonang Monastery. He would eventually settle there and Jonang Monastery was established in 1294. By then, he had many students and he taught them the old and new translations of Tantric teachings.

In his later years, the master Kunpang declared that Jangsem Gyelwa Yeshe would be his successor as the monastic head of Jonang Monastery. It is traditionally told that when Kunpang was about to pass away, Gyelwa Yeshe became ill, so Kunpang decided to extend his own life for several months. When he again manifested signs of passing away, his disciples pleaded for him to live longer. He lived for two more weeks before passing away peacefully.

 

Dolpopa Sherab Gyeltsen

A butter sculpture of Dolpopa Sherab Gyeltsen, the lama who built the Jonang Stupa and established the Zhentong Madhayamaka teachings

Dolpopa Sherab Gyeltsen was born in 1292 in the Nepalese Dolpo region. He was ordained as a novice monk in 1304 and spent his formative years studying the Nyingma teachings.

In 1309, he travelled to Mustang in order to study the treatises on the Perfection of Wisdom teachings and Buddhist epistemology or Abhidharma at the feet of the great Sakya master Kyiton Jamyang Drakpa Gyeltsen. In 1312, the young Dolpopa would follow his master Kyiton Jamyang back to the great monastery of Sakya in Tsang, Tibet. While at Sakya, Dolpopa received innumerable teachings. Of these teachings, he would soon become an expert on the complex Kalachakra tradition and would serve as Kyiton Jamyang’s teaching assistant for several years.

Besides the master Kyiton, Dolpopa received teachings and initiations from other Sakya masters including the Sakya Throneholder Daknyi Chenpo Sangpo Pel. From the Jonang master Kunpang Drakpa Gyeltsen, he received the Vimalaprabha, the commentary on the Kalachakra Tantra. From the Sakya master Sengge Pel, he received further teachings on Abhidharma and from the master Kunga Sonam, he received teachings on Sakya Lamdre and the scriptural transmission of several texts on the Hevajra Tantra.

Dolpopa traveled to many of the great monasteries of Tsang and Central Tibet in 1314 and became known with the title Kunkhyen or ‘Omniscient’ because of his mastery of a great number of scriptures. He also received bhikshu or full monastic ordination from the abbot Sonam Drakpa of Cholung Monastery and vowed to be meatless for the rest of his life. During the same year, he visited Jonang Monastery and was deeply impressed by the tradition of intense meditation emphasized there. Then he traveled to U and had audience with the Third Karmapa, Rangjung Dorje (1284-1339), at the great Karma Kagyu monastery of Tsurpu. The Karmapa significantly prophesied that Dolpopa would quickly develop deeper insight in the view and practice.

In 1322, while Dolpopa was at Jonang Monastery, he received from the master Khetsun Yonten Gyatso (1260-1327) the complete transmission of the Kalachakra Tantra, the Bodhisattva Trilogy, and the Kalachakra completion-stage practices of the Six-Branch Yoga. Then he entered a meditation retreat at the Jonang hermitage of Khacho Deden. After this retreat, Yonten Gyatso convinced Dolpopa to teach in the assembly at Jonang, and also taught him many more systems of esoteric knowledge on Tantra. Dolpopa then visited Sakya at the invitation of Tishri Kunga Gyeltsen (1310-1358) of the Khon family, and offered him the Kalachakra initiation.

On returning to Jonang, Dolpopa began a strict retreat at Khacho Deden, meditating on the Six-Branch Yoga for one year. During this time he achieved realization of the first four of the six branches, beholding immeasurable figures of the Buddhas and Pure Lands when practicing. During this retreat the realization of the Zhentong view first arose in Dolpopa’s mind, but he would not teach it to others until another five years had passed.

In 1325, Yonten Gyatso requested Dolpopa to be his successor and accept the monastic seat of Jonang Monastery. This was against Dolpopa’s own wish to enter into retreat but nevertheless, he finally agreed and ascended the monastic throne of Jonang in 1326. When Yonten Gyatso passed away the next year, Dolpopa decided to build a monumental stupa to repay his master’s kindness. During the construction, Dolpopa himself would sometimes work on the construction site amidst giving many teachings.

As the long central poles were placed in the stupa, he taught the Bodhisattva Trilogy to a huge assembly, explaining for the first time the distinction between the relative as empty of self-nature (Rangtong) and the absolute as empty only of other relative phenomena (Zhentong). The stupa was finally consecrated on October 30, 1333. In the following years, Dolpopa mostly stayed in meditation retreat and had many visions. In particular, he directly beheld the Pure Land of Shambhala, the source of the Kalachakra teachings, and once claimed to have actually gone there by visionary means.

In 1336, Dolpopa was invited to teach to a large crowd of several thousand people at Sakya Monastery. Once again, he taught the distinctions between the Rangtong and Zhentong views of Emptiness while citing numerous scriptural references. In 1338, he passed the monastic seat of Jonang Monastery to his disciple Lotsawa Lodro Pel. In 1344, Mongolian imperial envoys arrived with decrees issued by the Yuan Emperor Toghon Temur inviting Dolpopa to China, but he retreated to isolated hermitages for the next four years to evade the request.

Dolpopa became extremely heavy in his later years and it was difficult for him to travel. But in 1358, when he was sixty-seven years old, he decided to make a pilgrimage to Central Tibet and traveled by boat down the Tsangpo River, stopping at different places along the banks to teach. He stayed for one year at the monasteries of Nesar and Cholung, where he gave many teachings. The great Sakya master of the Khon family, Lama Dampa Sonam Gyeltsen (1312-1375), came to meet Dolpopa at Cholung, received teachings, and made requests to compose a text that became one of his major works, the Fourth Council.

In 1359, Dolpopa was brought on a palanquin through U and Tsang, welcomed by throngs of people lining the roads and escorting him into the different monasteries. When he finally arrived in Lhasa, he stayed for about six months and gave the instructions of the Six-Branch Yoga of Kalachakra several times to large crowds. At the beginning of 1360, a party arrived to invite Dolpopa back to Jonang Monastery. As Dolpopa traveled back into the Tsang region he stopped to teach at various monasteries such as Ralung and Nenying.

In 1360, Dolpopa arrived back at the great hermitage of Jonang and again stayed in meditation at his residence of Dewachen.

At the tail end of 1361, Dolpopa told his assistants that he wanted to go to the stupa, but his attendants told him that the path was unsafe because snow had fallen and assisted him to his residence instead. So, tea was served and elder disciples were called for some lighthearted conversation and by some accounts, he was said to be pleased with his disciples. The next morning, the master seemed to be in deep meditation with staring eyes. By afternoon, he had closed his eyes and passed away while in deep meditation.

Dolpopa was cremated according to tradition accorded to a High Lama. Ashes from the cremation were gathered and placed with other relics into a statue of Dolpopa that was installed into the great stupa he had built.

 

Taranatha

A life-like statue of Taranatha that belonged to Zanabazar

Taranatha was born at Karak in 1575 and was a descendent of Ra Lotsawa Dorje Drak. His Tibetan name was Kunga Nyingpo but scholars and historians know him by the name Taranatha, which he received in a vision from a great Indian mahasiddha.

According to traditional accounts, when he was one year old he had self-declared, “I am master Kunga Drolchok!” But this self-recognition was kept a secret for several years, and it was not until he was about four years old that he was brought to the late Kunga Drolchok’s monastery of Cholung Jangtse and formally recognized and enthroned as his incarnation. Then began years of rigorous study and practice under the guidance of a series of great masters, many of whom had previously been major disciples of his previous life.

Kunga Drolchok’s disciple Jampa Lhundrub guided the newly recognized young lama. Under this lama, Taranatha began his first studies on the various subjects of Sutra and Tantra. Then he received a vast number of Tantric teachings and initiations, primarily of the Sakya tradition of Lamdre, from another of his predecessor’s disciples, Doring Kunga Gyeltsen. Kunga Drolchok’s disciple Draktopa Lhawang Drakpa taught Taranatha many esoteric instructions, especially the Six Yogas and Mahamudra.

Jedrung Kunga Pelzang (1513-1588), who was Kunga Drolchok’s nephew and the throne holder of Jonang Monastery, transmitted to Taranatha the teachings of Kalachakra Tantra and the dharma protector Mahakala that he had received from his previous life. From Kunga Drolchok’s disciple Lungrik Gyatso, Taranatha received many transmissions, especially the Kalachakra initiation, the explanation of the Kalachakra Tantra, the esoteric instructions of the Six-Branch Yoga according to the Jonang tradition, and the collected writings of Dolpopa Sherab Gyeltsen (1292-1361). He is said to have gained a special realization when he practiced the Six-Branch Yoga of the Kalachakra Tantra.

When Taranatha was fourteen years old, the Indian adept Buddhaguptanatha arrived in Tibet. This master became one of Taranatha’s most important teachers, passing to him countless transmissions of Tantric initiations and esoteric instructions. Taranatha attributed his understanding of the Tantric teachings to the kindness of Buddhaguptanatha. There were other Indian yogins and scholars, both Buddhist and non-Buddhist who came to Tibet during Taranatha’s lifetime. They gave him instructions, taught scholarly aspects of the teachings and assisted him in translating Sanskrit texts into Tibetan. Several of Taranatha’s translations are now included in the Tibetan canonical collections of the Kangyur and Tangyur.

In 1588, Jedrung Kunga Pelzang appointed Taranatha as his successor on the throne of Jonang. Taranatha took it upon himself to proliferate Dolpopa’s insights to a larger audience. He decided that it was important to preserve Dolpopa’s teachings as they were deemed to be in danger of dying out. During the 1590s, the instruction manual witten by Dolpopa’s heir Chokle Namgyel (1306-1386) was still being used at Jonang to teach the Six-Branch Yoga, but very few people really understood the philosophical tenets of Dolpopa and his disciples.

During this period Taranatha’s teacher Jampa Lhundrub advised him to restore the great stupa that Dolpopa had built about 260 years before at Jonang. Taranatha poured his whole heart into this project. Just before the restoration work was finished, it is said that he had a marvelous vision of a mountain one morning. Apparently, the mountain was the Dhanyakataka Stupa, where the Buddha first taught the Kalachakra Tantra. Taranatha later felt that perhaps this vision was a culmination of the merits of everyone who had been working so intensely to complete the restoration works of the great stupa at Jonang.

In 1604, after a decade of tremendous work to revive the original Jonang teachings, serious political conflict ensued. Jonang Monastery itself was in immediate danger of being invaded by a hostile army. While meditating at Dolpopa’s great stupa, Taranatha became despondent as all his efforts were about to be destroyed and the tradition itself wiped out. At that time, he yearned to enter into retreat far away from all the troubles created by deluded and impassioned people.

At the darkest hour, Dolpopa appeared to him in a vision and encouraged him to continue on and assured him that all his efforts would not be in vain. The next night, Taranatha prayed to Dolpopa once more and experienced a vision of the master who gave a teaching in the form of a verse. As a result of this series of events, Taranatha was said to have gained realization of Dolpopa’s true intentions as expressed in his Zhentong teachings and all his fear and doubts melted away. In order to express his realization, he composed a text entitled Ornament of the Zhentong Middle Way, which is one of his most important works solely devoted to the explanation of the Zhentong view.

Taranatha would continue to have countless visions for the remainder of his life. During the years spanning 1618 to 1619, he experienced many visions of entering the Kalapa court of the Shambhala kings, beheld the divine rulers themselves, and heard their teachings. He felt that these visions were a result of his realization of the ultimate view of all Sutras and Tantras according to Zhentong Madhyamaka view. Probably not long after 1614, Taranatha went to Mongolia where he reportedly founded several monasteries.

In 1615, a piece of land was offered along with the necessary resources to build a monastery for Taranatha. The monastery would eventually be completed in 1628 and given the name Takten Damcho Ling. The monastery would serve as his residence until he entered clear light. Just before his passing, Taranatha appointed his disciple Sangye Gyatso as his successor on the monastic seat of Takten Damcho Ling. He also gave several prophecies concerning the future of the Jonang tradition and the upheaval that would soon sweep Tibet.

Sangye Gyatso passed away not long after Taranatha himself. Therefore, another of the great master’s disciples, Kunga Rinchen Gyatso was appointed to the monastic seat and led the Jonang tradition for the next fifteen years. His rebirth became known as Zanabazar, the 1st Bogd Gegeen and Jebtsundamba Khutuktu of Mongolia. His most recent reincarnation was the 9th Jebtsundamba Khutughtu, who entered clear light in 2012.

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27 Responses to The Jonang Lineage

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  1. Samfoonheei on Oct 7, 2019 at 12:12 pm

    The Jonang is a unique tradition of Tibetan Buddhism established in Central Tibet. They are the primary lineage holders of the Kalachakra which has been isolated for centuries. The Jonang tradition emphasises this unique doctrine and had a long history, tracing their unbroken lineage back to India and the great Nalanda University. Today however, the Jonang tradition is the only tradition to specialise in the Kalachakra teachings. Due to political intervention by the Fifth Dalai Lama, Jonang monasteries were then converted to Gelug . Gelug school has absorbed much of the Jonang Kalachakra tradition and is so vitally important up to this days.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

  2. Valentina Suhendra on Sep 28, 2018 at 8:00 am

    8 pictures of the Sakya Monastery to share, where Protector temple Mug Chung is located. This is the monastery where Dorje Shugden was enthroned first as a Dharma protector in Tibet over 400 years ago by the highest Sakya throneholders and masters. Since then when people are doing Dorje Shugden prayers and pujas, they invoke his holy wisdom presence from Mug Chung Protector Chapel in Sakya Monastery in Tibet.

    Sakya1

    Sakya3

    Sakya4

    Sakya5

    Sakya6

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    Sakya8

    Sakya2

  3. Samfoonheei on Aug 15, 2017 at 10:18 am

    The long history of the Jonang lineage was interesting to know as well. After reading i am still trying hard to remember the names.But at least i can understand of how it originated.The Jonang tradition is the primary holder of the Dro transmission and practice lineage of the Kalachakra Tantra.Due to plitical reasons the Jonang lineage came under attack by the Fifth Dalai Lama. Gelug Monasteries later absorbed much of the Jonang Kālacakra tradition as Jonang Monasteries was forced to closed. The Jonang tradition had become extinct as thought however, it was discovered that it has also been preserved by other Tibetan Buddhist traditions and is still taught.
    Thank you Rinpoche for these interesting read .Its quite similar to the
    14th Dalai Lama on Dorje Shugden.

  4. Deny Hermawan on Aug 14, 2017 at 12:04 am

    Thankyou Rinpoche for the article. Here’s 24 Major Points that Highlight the Difference Between Dolpopa and Tsongkhapa’s Systems- Based on Jeffery Hopkins translation of Tsongkhapa’s  ‘Final Exposition of Wisdom’. What do you think?

    1.
    Dolpopa:  Self-emptiness is empty emptiness in that compounded phenomena are empty of themselves.
    Tsongkhapa:  Self-emptiness is empty emptiness in that bot compounded and uncompounded phenomena are empty of inherent existence, but they are not empty of themselves.

    2.
    Dolpopa:  Other-emptiness is non-empty emptiness in that the ultimate is the basis of emptiness, which is empty of the other, that is to say conventionalities, and is not empty of itself.
    Tsongkhapa:  It can be said that the ultimate is other-empty in that the ultimate is not the conventional, but it is empty of inherent existence, and thus the ultimate is a self-emptiness and thus and empty emptiness.

    3.
    Dolpopa:  Self-emptiness is not the ultimate
    Tsongkhapa: Self-emptiness is the ultimate

    4.
    Dolpopa:  The ultimate is able to bear analysis
    Tsongkhapa:  Even the ultimate is not able to bear analysis

    5.
    Dolpopa:  The middle wheel of the doctrine teaches that the ultimate is self-empty only out of a purposeful intent and thus requires interpretation.
    Tsongkhapa:  The teaching in the middle wheel of the doctrine that the ultimate is self-empty is literally acceptable because the ultimate is also empty of inherent existence.

    6.
    Dolpopa:  Realizing and accustoming to self-emptiness just temporarily suppresses or reduces the pointedness of only coarse afflictive emotions.
    Tsongkhapa:  Realizing and accustoming to self-emptiness totally removes all coarse and subtle afflictive emotions.

    7.
    Dolpopa:  The third wheel of doctrine is definitive because it clearly teaches that the ultimate ultimately exists but conventionalities do not ultimately exist.
    Tsongkhapa:  The third wheel requires interpretation because it teaches that all phenomena, ultimate and conventional, are established by way of their own character.

    8.
    Dolpopa:  The ultimate exists and is an object of knowledge.
    Tsongkhapa:  Agreed

    9.
    Dolpopa:  The ultimate is not a dependent-arising, since dependent-arisings are necessarily impermanent and deceptive.
    Tsongkhapa:  Even the ultimate is a dependent-arising, since dependent-arising means (1) arising in dependence on causes and conditions, (2) existing in dependence on parts, and (3) existing in dependence on a basis of imputation and in dependence upon conceptuality that imputes, due to which even the permanent are dependent-arisings.

    10.
    Dolpopa:  The two truths, obscurational and ultimate, are neither one nor one entity since they are different, though not different entities.  Their difference simply means that they are not the same entity.  Hence, an ultimate truth is not an obscurational truth, and an obscurational truth is not an ultimate truth.
    Tsongkhapa:  The two truths are not one but are one entity.  They are different isolates but not different entities.  Hence, an ultimate truth is not an obscurational truth, and an obscurational truth is not an ultimate truth.

    11.
    Dolpopa:  Whatever exists is either an ultimate truth or an obscurational truth.
    Tsongkhapa:  Agreed.

    12.
    Dolpopa:  Although there is no third category between ultimate truth and obscurational truth since whatever exists must be either an ultimate truth or an obscurational truth, there is a third category between existing as an effective thing and not existing as an effective thing.
    Tsongkhapa:  There is no third category between existing as an effective thing and not existing as an effective thing.  The ultimate is the latter.

    13.
    Dolpopa:  The ultimate is true ultimately, and obscurational truths are true conventionally.
    Tsongkhapa:  The ultimate truth could not ultimately exist with out contradicting that it is the absence of inherent existence of all phenomena.

    14.
    Dolpopa:  “Ultimately existent” means “existing as able to bear analysis by a rational consciousness,” and ultimate truth is able to bear analysis by a rational consciousness and is, therefore, ultimately existent.
    Tsongkhapa:  “Ultimately existent” means “existing from its own side,” a consequence of which is that any object that ultimately exists must be able to bear analysis by a rational consciousness, and nothing can bear such analysis.

    15.
    Dolpopa:  If the ultimate were self-empty, it would be empty of itself and thus would not exist at all.
    Tsongkhapa:  The object of negation of self-emptiness is not the object that is the substratum of self-emptiness, but its inherent existence, due to which even though the ultimate is self-empty, it exists.

    16.
    Dolpopa:  The ultimate is an affirming negative, not a non-affirming negative.
    Tsongkhapa:  The ultimate is a non-affirming, not an affirming negative.

    17.
    Dolpopa:  Conventionalities do not exist in the mode of subsistence, but the ultimate (including ultimate Buddha qualities of body, speech and mind) exist in the mode of subsistence.
    Tsongkhapa:  Nothing exists in the mode of subsistence in that nothing exists as its own mode of subsistence, since then it would inherently exist.  Thus the mode of subsistence, that is emptiness, is not its own mode of subsistence, but the mode of subsistence exists, and the mode of subsistence is the mode of subsistence.

    18.
    Dolpopa:  Karmic appearances of sentient beings exist in the perspective of mistaken consciousness and do not exist in the perspective of pristine wisdom.  Nothing is both a valid cognition and a mistaken consciousness.
    Tsongkhapa:  Karmic appearances of sentient beings exist in the perspective of valid cognitions that are mistaken consciousness only in the sense that their objects appear to inherently exist whereas they do not.  They also are directly perceived by a pristine wisdom knowing the diversity of phenomena.

    19.
    Dolpopa:  Pristine wisdom and the ultimate are equivalent.
    Tsongkhapa:  Pristine wisdom and the ultimate are mutually exclusive, even though there is no sensing of their difference in direct realization of the ultimate.

    20.
    Dolpopa:  The matrix-of-One-Gone-Thus, endowed with ultimate Buddha qualities of body, speech and mind, is the basic reality and pristine wisdom.
    Tsongkhapa:  The matrix-of-One-Gone-Thus is not endowed with ultimate Buddha qualities of body, speech and mind; the matrix-of-One-Gone-Thus is the emptiness of inherent existence of a defiled mind and thus is not endowed with Buddha qualities of body, speech and mind, which are generated through observing and meditating on emptiness.

    21.
    Dolpopa:  The Great Middle Way is presented in texts by Great Vehicle Masters such as Nagarjuna, Asanga, Aryadeva, Buddhapalita, Bhavaviveka, Vasubandhu, and so forth up to but not always including Chandrakirti, who is self-contradictory in both refuting and propounding a matrix-of-One-Gone-Thus endowed with ultimate Buddha qualities.
    Tsongkhapa:  The Great Middle Way is the view of the Consequence School itself, as presented by Nagarjuna, Aryadeva, Buddhapalita, Chandrakirti and Shantideva.

    22.
    Dolpopa:  Pristine wisdom is simply permanent and not in the sense that its continuum goes on forever.
    Tsongkhapa:  Pristine wisdom even at the stage of Buddhahood is impermanent, though at Buddhahood its continuum goes on forever.

    23.
    Dolpopa:  Buddhas are omniscient in that they know the phenomena of desire, form, and formless realms implicitly.  Through knowing the ultimate explicitly, they know that the phenomena of the desire, form and formless realms do not exist and thus implicitly know them.
    Tsongkhapa:  Buddhas know both the ultimate and the conventional explicitly, that is, through the appearance of everything to their omniscient wisdom.  They perceive only endless purity from their own perspective, but the explicitly and directly perceive other phenomena by way of these phenomena appearing to sentient beings.

    24.
    Dolpopa:  Buddhas are always in meditative equipoise directly realizing the ultimate.
    Tsongkhapa:  Buddhas have a state of wisdom in which meditative equipoise directly realizing the ultimate and the state subsequent to meditative equipoise are fused in one mind without having to alternate between them.

  5. Pastor Han Nee on Dec 16, 2016 at 12:06 pm

    Thank you Rinpoche for this interesting post, which shows how the Kalachakra practice originated through the Jonang Lineage.

    Within Tibet, the Kalachakra Tantra has two main lineages, the Dro and Ra lineages. The Ra lineage descends from the Kashmiri master Samantashri and the translator Ra Lotsawa Dorje Drak. The Ra lineage was further promoted through the efforts of great masters like Sakya Pandita and Taranatha(a great Jonang Master and descendant of Ra Lotsawa). On the other hand, the Dro lineage descends from the Kashmiri scholar Somanatha, who traveled to Tibet in 1027 AD and his translator Dro Lotsawa Sherab Drak, whose name became synonymous with this transmission of the Kalachakra.I believe that Lotsawa Sherab Drak is the great translator Loden Sherab. This clearly establishes the fact, that the previous incarnations of Dorje Shugden have ensured the continuity of the two lineages(especially the Ra Lineage) to this day, for the benefit of beings of this degenerate age.

    The Jonang Lineage is where the roots and the lineage of the Kalachakra practice come from. The Kalachakra practice is one of the prized practices and systems to enlightenment.Hence the Kalachakra is a very important practice.

    Kalachakra means the ‘Wheel of Time’ in Sanskrit. The Kalachakra Tantric system is one of the most advanced Tantric systems within Tibetan Buddhism and one of the last Tantric systems to be brought over from India to Tibet via the last transmission of the teachings before Buddhism was wiped out in India.

    Although this Tantric system is very advanced and esoteric, there is a tradition of offering it to large public audiences. It is the practice for High Lamas to give such public initiations to plant as many powerful seeds or causes as possible for those in the audience to be reborn in Shambhala. Hence, in recent times, we see HH the Dalai Lama giving Kalchakra initiations and practice to hundreds and thousands of people . Also, not so long ago, the 11th Panchen Lama gave the Kalachakra initiation and teachings to over 100,000!

    Shambala is a pure land hidden away somewhere on earth, ruled by enlightened kings and the Kalachakra Tantra is the primary practice of the populace of this kingdom.

    That this practice particularly suits the people of this age can be seen in the origin of this practice. The King of Shambala had requested Lord Buddha to teach a method to practice the Dharma without renouncing worldly responsibilities! In response to his request, the Buddha taught the first teachings on Kalachakra. Indeed, we can see why this practice is so needed in this degenerate age, where worldly distractions are so overwhelming that real spirituality has taken a backseat.

    In the 17th century, the Great Fifth Dalai Lama suppressed the Jonang lineage for political reasons. Ironically, it was also during the time of the Fifth Dalai Lama’s forced conversion of Jonang monasteries that the Gelug school absorbed much of the Jonang Kalachakra tradition. So, we can say that enlightened beings will use wrathful means for compassionate reasons.

    Today, the Gelug Lineage is the one for whom the Kalchakra Tantra features most prominently.

  6. TekLee on Dec 16, 2016 at 12:52 am

    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing the article. It is really beautiful to know the history of Jonang lineage and how it converted to Gelug and how Kalachakra maintain in Gelug until today. This reminds me of Dorje Shugden issue that we’re facing currently. How The 14th Dalai Lama suppress Dorje Shugden, but on the other hand, it’s being widely spread in China. That means a pure practice cannot be destroyed, it will only be transferred to another place. And the purpose behind, it will even make the practice even stronger and more popular. _/\_

  7. Choong on Dec 14, 2016 at 12:23 pm

    The history of the Jonang lineage is another example of how the nexus of aggregate karma and intervention by an attained being (in this case the Great 5th Dalai Lama) resulted in what was a temporary situation of a lineage being “wronged” in the 17th century.

    The apparent reason for the 5th’s clampdown was the philosophical Zhentong view of Emptiness that was deemed heretical. However, as the article says, ironically, it was also during the time of the 5th’s forced conversion of Jonang monasteries that the Gelug school absorbed much of the Jonang Kalachakra tradition which is today featured prominently in the Gelug lineage.

    Many Jonang fled central Tibet to Kham and Amdo where the lineage continued to flourish. Today, they still uphold their lineage and practice of the completion stage of Kalachakra along with the philosophical Madhyamaka Zhentong system in these areas.

  8. Fong on Jun 26, 2016 at 3:57 pm

    It’s interesting how a lineage can be suppressed by the 5th Dalai Lama for political reasons. But if the teachings are true and pure than it cannot be gotten rid of and will resurface for the benefits of sentient beings. This is proven by the revival of the Jonang lineage. The Kalachakra teachings have been proven to be efficacious and so the lineage will be revived.

    So, the fact that the practice of Dorje Shugden continues to flourish, can only mean that the teachings are pure too. For it to remain so and to protect the pure teachings of Lama Tsongkhapa, the Protector will ensure that the practice will not die out even if they have to move to another place far away from the influence of the Dalai Lama as the Jonangpas did by moving to Kham and Amdo area. And, how it spread to Mongolia and is kept in Mongolia.

    By recognizing the Jonang, the Dalai Lama shows that he is progressive and not averse to recognizing the truth as a true Buddhist. After all, the Dalai Lamas and many other high Lamas have been giving mass initiations to thousands over the years.

    That may seem a very mundane view but that is how I see it. My lack of merits, I guess.

    Thank you, Rinpoche for the very detailed teaching.

  9. Wai Meng Wan on Jun 5, 2016 at 4:38 pm

    The Jonang lineage was suppressed during the time of the great 5th Dalai lama, due to the support they rendered to the forces opposed to the Gaden Phodrang. Even the 14th Dalai Lama admitted that it was politics that the Jonang lineage experienced such a suppression, and it was not because the Jonang was heretical.

    If the Dalai Lama can extend a reversal to this lineage, I do not see why not the Dalai Lama rescind the ban and discrimination towards Dorje Shugden practice and lamas.

  10. Alice Tay on May 6, 2016 at 1:42 am

    感谢仁波切的分享,让我们有幸的阅读此篇有关时轮金刚,源自于觉囊传承。

    此传承原来在第五世达赖尊者的年代曾经被打压过。当时的觉囊传承里的“Zhentong”观让他们认为是异教。因此,他们将有关觉囊传承的书本和图书馆等等毁灭甚至强行地将觉囊寺院转为格鲁派的寺院。

    无论面对多少的困难,所幸的是在今天的藏传佛教格鲁派的学校还有继续的传授此密续时轮金刚。除此,还有一些持修觉囊的人来自于康区、青海和四川。

    在此可以证明,一个真正和纯净的传承只要最终目的是利益一切众生,无论要面对或经历多少难关,这个传承一定会被保存下来。

  11. Pammie yap on May 1, 2016 at 12:35 pm

    This is confusing. Why is it that the 5th HHDL banned Kalachakra practices but the 14th HHDL is giving initiations everywhere? If the HHDL are of the same then why the contradiction? Does this mean that even such high enlightened beings can also make mistakes?
    If Dorje Shugden’s practice have been practiced since the 5th HHDL’s time then why is is banned now? The reasons for banning DS practices makes no sense, after all, many great lamas and lay people have practiced for hundreds of years. Could it be HHDL made mistakes?

    The Kalachakra practice was taught by Buddha himself. How fortunate for us that Buddha taught both sutra and tantra. It would be amazing to be able to practice and receive initiations in Shambala!! To know that everyone’s main purpose is to practice and learn Dharma is inspiring. Curious to know where is Shambala exactly though.

  12. Khoo Hou Haw on May 1, 2016 at 4:50 am

    The Kalachakra initiation has been given publically by teachers like His Holiness the Dalai Lama and over more than 25 years, many hundreds of thousands have been “initiated” through the Kalachakra Tantra by His Holiness Dalai Lama.

    The Kalachakra Tantra appears as a dignified and uplifting contribution to world peace, which fosters compassion with all living beings, interreligious dialog, interracial and intersubjective tolerance, ecological awareness, sexual equality, inner peace, spiritual development and bliss for the third millennium (“Kalachakra for World Peace”). The motto for the whole show is quoted from the His Holiness Dalai Lama: “Because we all share this small planet earth, we have to learn to live in harmony and peace with each other and with nature.”

    We sincerely wish that His Holiness Dalai Lama will soon fulfills His promise of World Peace and end the suppression on the Dorje Shugden practice which is going against His objective of spreading the practice of Kalachakra.

  13. Li Kheng on Apr 30, 2016 at 9:06 pm

    The Kalachakra tantra is something I have heard of quite often and for quite a while. However, I never quite knew what it was. Thank you for this straight forward and clear post to explain such a esoteric and advanced form of practice.

    What I find most impressionable about the Kalachakra tantra is that it was taught by Lord Buddha himself to fulfill the request of Suchandra, an earlier King of Shambhala, for a method to practice the Dharma without renouncing worldly responsibilities. This reveals that the possibility to practice Dharma in seemingly worldly environments and activities is possible since 2500 years ago. What s crucial is our motivation, which is what Tsem Rinpoche often teach us.

    In some way, I remember to the days when I was working in Shanghai and I struggled with balancing the Dharma I wanted to practice and the tough decisions I had to make as the CEO of a 35 outlets cafe franchise in the cosmopolitan. I asked Rinpoche: How can a business person manage Dharma and business? Rinpoche said: Just check in on your motivation. That practical and profound advice became my guideline as I grew my business until it was sold.

    Another impressionable section of the article is that the 5th Dalai Lama banned the Kalachakra of the Jonag Lineage for political reasons. It makes me think of the ban the 14th Dalai Lama is imposing on Dorje Shugden. Perhaps, this is the imprint or style of leadership that the Dalai Lama’s line of incarnation is “used to”. What is most important is that the ban for Kalachakra made it flourish even more and today, this is a practice that the Dalai Lama consistently disseminate to the masses. So perhaps, like what some believe, the ban will ultimately cause the practice to flourish because controversy attract attention. I pray that one day soon, the current and future Dalai Lama will expound the Dorje Shugden practice to the masses like what he is doing with the Kalachakra tantra.

  14. Mingwen on Apr 30, 2016 at 8:31 pm

    Thank you, Rinpoche and team of writers for sharing such interesting blog post.

    “Kalachakra Tantra states that Suchandra, an earlier King of Shambhala, requested Buddha Shakyamuni to teach a method to practice the Dharma without renouncing worldly responsibilities. In response to his request, the Buddha taught the first teachings on Kalachakra in Dharanikota, which is near modern Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh in Southeastern India.”

    I’m impressed that there is a way to practice Dharma traditionally and  spiritually without renouncing worldly responsibilities. What I understand is individual who practice Kalachakra would not necessarily to do sadhana daily.

    “Shambhala is a place on earth that is described in the commentaries to be a hidden land ruled by enlightened kings and that the Kalachakra Tantra is the primary practice of the populace of this kingdom. The king of Shambhala is both the ruler and the one to bestow initiation and commentary of the Kalachakra Tantra.”

    Shambhala, another object that catch my attention. I wonder how would it look like and what is confirmed is that a lot of merits should be collected to redeem for the entrance ticket into this holy place, Shambhala.

    P.S. Please correct me if I’ve mistaken the meaning behind these words.

    Thank you. _/|\_

  15. Chris Chong on Apr 30, 2016 at 8:22 pm

    Dear Rinpoche, thank you for sharing this article. What stood out to me most is how the Fifth Dalai Lama suppressed this lineage due to political reasons. Jonang Monasteries are being forced to be converted into Gelug Monasteries. Jonang monks had to flee their mother Monasteries in order to preserve their lineage. Thanks to their strong will, the lineage had been preserved. From the article, I had understood the reason for the 5th Dalai Lama to suppress this lineage is to strengthen his own new formed government, Gaden Podrang. This means the lineage itself is not wrong and the teachings are not wrong.

    This is an example of how the Dalai Lama sometimes suppress certain practices not because they are wrong, there might be a greater reason behind it. Just like Dorje Shugden Ban. Dorje Shugden practices is not wrong and yet the Dalai Lama had impose a Ban on it. I believe that there might be a greater reason behind the ban.

    Chris

  16. Julia Tan on Apr 30, 2016 at 7:48 pm

    I always wonder, during Buddha time, how was tantra being taught by Lord Buddha. It was requested Buddha Shakyamuni by the King of Shambhala, Suchandra to teach a method to practice the Dharma without renouncing worldly responsibilities. Hence the Buddha taught the first teachings on Kalachakra. The King were the one who giving initiation and commentary of the Kalachakra Tantra. Since it was said that only people with third eye can see Shambhala, that means it is within one of the 6 realms. Those who received the initiation will one day take rebirth in Shambhala. So Shambhala is a pure land. A pure land in the world. They practice worldly responsibilities just like us.

    The practice was brought to Tibet by Indian Masters and the 2 translators, Ra Rotsawa and Dro Rotsawa. Ra Rotsawa and Sakya Pandita belong to another lineage holder of Kalachakra tantra. They were also the previous incarnation of Dorje Shugden.

    Jonang lineage was suppressed by the 5th Dalai Lama because it was said that philosophical Zhentong view of Emptiness that was deemed heretical. But the true reason was about politics. Jonang Monastery was forced to closed down and converted to Gelug. I cannot imagine how much suffering they need to take and how hard the Jonang Lineage people have to go through to being converted. But today the 14th Dalai Lama every year given out many mess Kalachakra initiations to the public. It only shows that the practice has no problem but it was the human mind that complicated it.

    Will this be the same for Dorje Shugden ban today? Tulku Drakpa Gyelshen was killed because He over shined (threat to) the 5th Dalai Lama at that time. Today Dorje Sugden practice spread wide and far to the world, obviously it is a valid practice with pure lineage. Dorje Shugden was ban due to political issues between Tibet and China. At the same time CTA used the ban to distract people’s attention on the independent of Tibet as promised. I believe Dorje Shugden ban will be lifted and the 14th Dalai Lama will be spreading Dorje Shugden practice to the world himself just like Jonang Lineage today when the political issue is dissolved.

  17. Pastor Chia on Apr 30, 2016 at 3:46 pm

    Lord buddha pass down the Kalachakra practice to King Suchandra, the first Dharma King of Shambhala, is one of method for people to connect to Shambhala which is a pure land on our planet. Through Kalachakra initiations, people could easier to access to the pure lands out there at Shambala. At future, when dharma degenerate,this is one of the way people could excess there continue to practice. Lord Buddha skill full way in assisting sentient beings to find their way towards enlightenment.

    Is interesting reading this article becauce the Jonangs lineage of Kalachakra practice were almost wiped out during the great 5th Dalai Lama time. However the 14th Dalai Lama has reconciled them into Tibetan hierarchy, if the Jonangs lineage can experience such a reversal, then same situation of Dorje Shugden practice and practitioners can continue at the future to benefit sentient being. May the 14th Dalai Lama do so immediately, and lift the last vestiges that is holding back, the spread of Tsongkhapa’s tradition spread in our world and remove the sufferings of many as a result of the Dorje Shudgen ban.

  18. nicholas on Apr 30, 2016 at 12:19 pm

    It’s interesting to learn about the Jonang that came from such a long lineage and how Kalachakra teaching being first thought due to the request by the King of Shambala and later on how this teaching being passed down. Referring to this articles it’s sad to see how political reason come into the picture of spirituality.

    Looking at how the 5th Dalai Lama act when he felt the threat, Jonang Monastery has to be closed and converted to set as a precedent and warning to other monasteries. It does shows how strong political influence exists way back during that time and it even carried down up to this time on Dorje Shugden practice being suppressed and the practitioners being discriminate. Same scenario where the practitioners have to move/migrate to other places to continue and preserve the sacred teaching that has been thought and passed down by the holy teacher.

  19. Pastor Moh Mei on Apr 30, 2016 at 10:50 am

    The most interesting part of this article to me is the reference of Kalachakra practice to Shambhala. Another name often used to refer to the mythical kingdom/paradise Shambala is Shangri-La. Shambala/Shangri-La has been made very popular in movies, books and even in many games.

    The most intriguing question remain where is the exact physical location of Shambhala? Many Buddhist articles often refer Shambhala as a place on Earth. But what does that really mean. In the Buddhist context, there are many realm of existence. For example the spirit / hungry ghost realm. While they are not visible to most of us, these spirits co-exist with us on Earth so to speak even though they are considered to be in any realm. So technically speaking on Earth itself, there could be many realms that co-exist. Hence, Shambhala being a place on Earth could mean it is in one of these realms hidden from the plain view of human.

    Having said that, there are still many treacherous and hard to reach landscape around the world. Even with the most advance of technology, Earth has yet been 100% fully explored. It is not impossible to imagine that there is a real physical city/kingdom of Shambhala that still unreachable to mankind. The existence of Shambhala reminds me also of bigfoot/yeti. Both appears to be common in Tibetan Buddhism and accepted as “real” but yet lack an scientific, physical and visual evidence.

    On the Kalachakra lineage itself, it is interesting to learn that one of the main lineage descended from Ra Lotsawa Dorje Drak who was one of the previous incarnation of Dorje Shugden. Another most intriguing point was that in the 17th century, due to political reasons, the 5th Dalai Lama actually suppressed the Jonang lineage. And yet today, the Kalachakra Tantra is disseminated within all schools of Tibetan Buddhism but it is featured prominently within the Gelug lineage. I can’t help but draw some comparison here with the Dorje Shugden practice. Could the decision on the Dorje Shugden ban be political as well? It seems that it should not be surprising for the Dalai Lama incarnation line to have made decision on suppressing and controlling certain practices for other than religious reasons.

    Today, the Dalai Lama himself is one of the most prominent Lama advocating and giving Kalachakra initiations. Perhaps it is not too far fetched to expect in the future that His Holiness the Dalai Lama will become one of the main advocate of Dorje Shugden practice as well when the circumstances(s) for suppressing and banning the practice is no longer valid.

  20. Pastor Henry Ooi on Apr 30, 2016 at 1:00 am

    The ‘Wheel of Time’ could mean that when the time is right, the dharma king of Shambala and his dharma warriors would show themselves to the people during degenerated time and share with them the dharma and practices.

    As for Shambala, I find it fascinating and intriguing that it is called a physical place on Earth (as mentioned in the commentaries) yet no ordinary people could find it. Maybe it is only visible to those who have achieved higher attainments, like great meditation masters of the past and perhaps the present, who can physically go there. If any ordinary person had really found it there would already be world news. And expeditions would have been organised to visit Shambala. Needless to say those who could astral travel there would have higher attainments.

    As described, Shambala is indeed a paradise on Earth.

  21. Stella Cheang on Jan 25, 2016 at 10:43 am

    A scholastically rich blogpost that share with us branches of Tibetan Buddhism and the various lineages that were practiced since Buddha’s time. Jonang Lineage was one of these lineages that flourished in the region in those days before it was clamped down. Ironically, it was the leader of Tibetan Buddhism, the 5th Dalai Lama, who suppressed the lineage and forced it to almost distinction. It is most disturbing to read that politics and selfish aim caused so much damage to religion practice; and yet, we never learn from the mistake. Today, the same is happening to the Dorje Shugden practice; the lineage holders and followers are being forced out of mainstream Tibetan Buddhism, insulted and persecuted, to say the least.

    Thank You Rinpoche for the teachings on Jonang lineage. This blogpost deserved to be bookmarked for in-depth reading and reference. I will definitely read it again.

    Humbly, bowing down,
    Stella Cheang

    • Stella Cheang on Jan 25, 2016 at 10:48 am

      Correction: extinction, not distinction. Sorry.

    • Stella Cheang on Apr 26, 2016 at 1:14 pm

      Through the weekly Blogchat Dharma discussion on Monday evening, I have learnt a couple of new points that provide me with new meaning to the 2 paragraphs below.

      1. The reason used by the 5th HHDL to suppress the Jonang Lineage was the philosophical Zhentong view of Emptiness that was deemed heretical.
      2. According to Jonang tradition, Zhentong means ‘other-emptiness’, it is opposite of Rangtong which means ‘self-emptiness’. Both Zhentong and Rangtong are part of Madhyamaka view of Emptiness.

      These 2 paragraphs are so deep in the context of understanding existence and emptiness. I wish I will have the opportunity to learn more and contemplate more to get a deeper understanding of it soon.
      “According to Zhentong teachings, the Madhyamaka view of Emptiness is an understanding of the mind and reality in order to reconcile the paradox of a lack of permanent essence (Sunyata/Emptiness) and the permanent enlightened nature of the enlightened mind (Tathagatagarbha/Buddha nature). Ultimately, Zhentong is a view of how the ultimate nature of reality is empty of inherent existence aside from one’s own enlightened Buddha nature.

      Zhentong holds that the relative truth of reality is empty of its own intrinsic findable existence. This Emptiness of inherent existence or “rangtong” is considered to be solely the nature of relative reality while the ultimate reality is understood to be empty of everything aside from oneself. That is why transient tangible experiences remain devoid of inherent and findable existence while the boundless luminous nucleus of Buddha nature within all beings remains intangible and unchanging.“

      Thank you very much, Rinpoche, for this teaching. It not only give me a broad view of other lineages within Tibetan Buddhism but also indepth details of Buddha’s teaching.

      My head to Rinpoche’s lotus feet, forever your student,
      Stella Cheang

  22. veritas on Jan 6, 2016 at 10:11 pm

    Thank you for this excellent piece. From it we begin to get a picture that individuals of different sects at different points in Tibet’s history underwent incredible religious persecution at the hands of the politically and spiritually dominant sect. Some sects because of this vying for power no longer even exist. This is important to help understand subsequent karmic ripenings. Another example worth researching is how and why many of the early Kadam monasteries later became nunneries. Thuuken Losang Chokyi Nyima has plenty to say on why this occurred in his masterful book entitled, Crystal Mirror of Philosophical Systems, available in English, translated from the Tibetan by Geshe Thupten Jinpa.

    In order to perceive persecution, we had to have persecuted others. What would now be the counteragent to having done this? How to purify ourselves of this misdeed? Notice that there are plenty of Tibetan Buddhists, even Gelug ones, for whom the protector controversy does not exist in their experience. This highlights the Lamrim instruction of being extremely respectful of others’ beliefs, regardless of how much they may diverge from our own.

    Tibetan history is replete with examples of spiritual and political power being conflated. Clearly, this has consequences. Spiritual bullying and intimidation will always have its effects, no matter how rationalized as skillful. Who can safely say he or she is attained enough to perform wrathful action? This is a question I sincerely seek answers to.

    Too many times it’s possible that an insufficiently attained individual took too many liberties, justifying anger with wrathful tantric action; we see this now with monks and others jumping on the bandwagon and discriminating, harming, and behaving badly toward pro-protector monks. This shows their level. They are practicing neither Buddha Dharma nor basic human decency. This behavior is no different from a person using dark magic to achieve intended aims and makes a mockery of true Dharma.

    It’s very relevant to note here that as Gyume Khensur Sonam Gyaltsen astutely pointed out in a letter that was published online, the Vinaya clearly states that monks are prohibited from swearing, as in taking oaths of the sort required and enforced in India to separate the protector practitioners from the non. So I feel sorry for all those monks and nuns, who in their ignorance chose a red or yellow stick not knowing that the very activity of such a swearing scenario is proscribed very clearly by the Buddha in the Vinaya. To think that a monk demanded that this swearing be imposed is truly chilling.

    What would have happened if all the monks, knowing well the Vinaya, had gotten up from their seats and said: I cannot participate in this swearing ceremony, as I am a monk, a follower of the Buddha, a follower of his Dharma? All of this points to a massive degeneration in standards of true learning and true practice in what were once outstanding seats of Mahayana and Vajrayana learning. Once people stop studying, everything is fair game and anyone can say whatever and get away with it.

  23. Paul Yap on Jan 5, 2016 at 10:03 pm

    This is the first time i heard and read about this lineage, its a great pleasure to understand and read the history and short biography of some of this great master. It seems that these great master has some close connection and alsways has vision of Shambala. However its shocking to know that this lineage nearby become extinct as the 5th Dalai Lama has forcibly annexed the Jonang monasteries to his Gelug school, declaring them heretical.

    Extract from wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jonang

    “After several centuries of independence, however, in the late 17th century the Jonang order and its teachings came under attack by the 5th Dalai Lama, who converted the majority of their monasteries in Tibet to the Gelug order, although several survived in secret.[4] The order remained in power in parts of Kham and Amdo centered on Dzamthang Monastery”

  24. Joy on Jan 5, 2016 at 10:01 pm

    Very interesting article. Thank you so much Rinpoche for sharing the lineage of Kalachakra. I will read again carefully to absorb it’s content better.

    The one thing that stood out clearly was this…”In the 17th century, the Great Fifth Dalai Lama suppressed the Jonang lineage for political reasons. Ironically, it was also during the time of the Fifth Dalai Lama’s forced conversion of Jonang monasteries that the Gelug school absorbed much of the Jonang Kalachakra tradition.” First thing that crossed my mind was that what? Even then the Dalai Lama’s office were surpressing people they felt was a threat to the Dalai Lama’s power. This is unbelievable. It appears the Dalai Lama’s office is really good at suppressing people and they are the one’s converting monasteries yet they twist, lie and blame Pabongka Rinpoche for converting monasteries? Incredible!

    Is there anyone in the Dalai Lama’s office practising Dharma at all or are they all just there for political and personal gains? It really shines a bad light on the Dalai Lama which was in actuality man made, something Tibetans created otherwise there was no such thing as a Dalai Lama right? So the very basis and motivation of the existence of this statue “Dalai Lama” is from a political samsaric desire and goal. Hence it makes more sense why those working in the Dalai Lama office are always so insecure about their status, power and influence and would strike down anyone who opposes them. Makes sense why they are what they are in how they treat their own people just because they practice something they do not approve and agree with. Quite sad indeed. However their time will come and their karma awaits them for all the suffering they have caused because even the Dalai Lama wishes to end this label “Dalai Lama”. If this happens, where will the CTA then be? Who will they use as their puppet to demand order, loyalty and funds from? Perhaps the Dalai Lama say the corruption brewing and had to think of a way to end the whole thing with a big bang and try to save some face for them by being seen as the bad wolf… the one stirring up all this problem about Dorje Shugden and splitting the nation up. I don’t know this is just my take and I know it doesn’t quite relate to this post per se, but I had to get my thoughts out.

    Besides that I really love the idea of this mystical place called Shambala and I believe Rinpoche confirmed its existence to us in a book club we used to have and when we were reading Chogyam Tungpa’s Dragon Thunder book written by His wife Diana Mukpo. It was a very good book and it described how Chögyam Trungpa used dressed up and dress all his students up as if they were the Shambala army guarding the land and their King was of course Chögyam Trungpa himself. How fascinating how mahasiddhas work to encourage the us degenerates to develop divine perception.

    Another interesting part is that one of the power places that Dorje Shugden resides in is in Shambala! So there is a connection here 🙂

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Blog Chat

BLOG CHAT

Dear blog friends,

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

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

Tsem Rinpoche


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

1 · 2 · 3 · 4 · 5 · »

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The Unknown

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

Photos On The Go

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

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

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


Ask the Pastors

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

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

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

  • March 29, 2024 09:59
    Anonymous asked: 1: how can cleaning be turned into meditation? 2: in Chinese tradition, when someone passes away, there are these blankets with like Buddhas' names on it, Buddhist symbols, etc. What happens when they are cremated, what should we do so it isn't disrespectful to burn the cover/blanket? Thank you ♡
    pastor answered: Dear Anonymous, Thank you for your questions. In regards to your first question, here is a part of Tsem Rinpoche's teaching (https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/how-to-purify-your-karma-in-kechara-forest-retreat.html): "As I have shared before, during the Buddha’s time, he had a student who was not very intelligent, an old monk. And when this old monk memorised the first word, when he got to the second word, he forgot the first word. When he went back to the first word, he forgot the second word. And he’d yo-yo back and forth like that. And he was very frustrated so he asked the Buddha what he could do because he was having such a hard time memorising and understanding the Dharma due to his very, very, very, poor memory. And so the Buddha said, “Visualise a temple, the shoes of the monks, the floor, the surrounding area, the garden, the trees and all that as your mind. And all the leaves that have fallen as your karma, and your kleshas, your obstructions, your obstacles. Think of all the dirt, think of all the dust, as your kleshas and your obstructions and your negative karma, and every day clean it. And recite this DÜ PUNG DRI MA PUNG, DÜ PUNG DRI MA PUNG, DÜ PUNG DRI MA PUNG. Remove my defilements, remove its leftovers. Remove my defilements, remove the leftovers, the stains.. So, to recite that every day carefully and to visualise it carefully and do that.” So when you are cleaning, you visualise that you are cleaning the defilements from your mind, you can recite "DÜ PUNG DRI MA PUNG, DÜ PUNG DRI MA PUNG, DÜ PUNG DRI MA PUNG." or "Remove my defilements, remove its leftovers." Or you can recite mantras of purification such as Vajrasattva. In regards to your second question: from the Tibetan Buddhist viewpoints you would not burn mantras or images of or associated with the Three Jewels. However, the specific mantras on the blanket, may be for this specific purpose. We wouldn't be able to give you a definitive answers as we would need to know the specific mantras, prayers, images on the blanket. Hope this helps. Thank you.
  • March 28, 2024 05:40
    Jason asked: Continuing from the previous answer, how do we liberate ourselves from samsara if it’s impossible to not create further karma while existing in samsara? If we create karma just be existing, that means that we will keep reincarnating over and over again so it seems like we’re stuck in the cycle
    pastor answered: Dear Jason, You've asked a very interesting follow-up question. Generally speaking, yes if you are in samsara, then you are always creating more karma. That's why the goal of Buddhists is to be liberated from samsara. The Buddha and other enlightened beings achieved this and the practice of Dharma itself is geared towards achieving this. I'll try to explain it here, hopefully I can do so in such a short space. So, normally there is no way out of samsara, but when you practice the Dharma there is. Remember in my previous reply to you, I mentioned that there are differing levels of severity of karma? Some are heavier, some lighter, etc. When practising the Dharma, you reduce the amount of karma that you produce. When you have less effects of karma, due to less negative karma itself, you can focus more on the spiritual practices that lead to liberation. I'll take the examples of the Refuge vows. There are 10 of them, split into three categories related to the body, speech and mind. First is the body, which includes to abstain form killing, as killing creates negative karma. The in the speech section, it includes to abstain from lying. This is harder to do. What is easier - to abstain from killing another human being, or lying to another person. The easier one is not to kill. Hence, you train yourself in this manner, working from those actions that are easiest to avoid, working up to those that are harder. For example in the mind section, one of the vows is not to covet something that another person has. But this is harder to do than either not lying or not killing. In other words, in our spiritual practice, we reduce the karma that we create though the actions of our body, speech and mind. Since we have less karma, we suffer less. And then finally, we are get to really subtle levels of karma, which are like residue in our mindstreams. But it's still there. In order to get out of samsara, you need to realise what we call emptiness (which is way to complicated to talk about here). In other words, the very path of the Dharma is to reduce the karma we create, starting with the easiest and working up to the hardest, which is where it becomes the easiest to understand emptiness. This who journey is a process, that's why teachings such as the Lamrim are indesipensible as it shows us the actual way to practice. Normally, we are stuck in Samsara. But when we practice the Dharma and ultimately realise emptiness (there are many, many steps in between) we are able to get out of samsara completely. This may sound confusing, which is why in Buddhism study, understand and practice is very important. We have Dharma classes available, where you can learn and find out more: https://www.kechara.com/learn/dharma-classes/ I hope this helps.
  • March 27, 2024 06:10
    Jason asked: People-especially family put certain expectations on us and when we refuse, it causes them a lot of stress and anger and we make them suffer…. my family wants me to marry and have kids but I don’t want to be tied down to Samsara any further and just explaining that I want to shave my head drives my mom crazy and she starts speaking to me in a very loud and forceful manner saying that she doesn’t care what I have to say and that she knows better than me so she will do whatever it takes make me have a family even if she ends up becoming a villain in my eyes because it’s for my own good so that I won’t be alone and lonely when I’m old. When we say no to people, especially to people who care about us and want the best for us, do we accumulate negative karma from causing them emotional turmoil and pain
    pastor answered: Dear Jason, Thank you for your question. In essence, any action that causes another person harm or suffering whether physical or emotional generates negative karma. But karma is complicated and not as simple as we usually think about it. There are differences in level of severity of karma created, some can be very light and some can be heavy. These are due to the variables when creating karma, such as motivation, the actions, your feelings after it, etc. This can all be found in teachings that talk about karma, especially the Lamrim teachings. In Buddhism we teach that we need to avoid the creation of negative karma for sure. But simply by being stuck in samsara, there is actually no way out of creating karma. That is why Buddhists seek to be free from samsara altogether. Only when we are free from samsara, are we free from the creation of karma. In relation to your situation, if you are young and rely on your parents, for now you should try not to do things that are create division or disharmony within the family environment. That itself if the practice of the Dharma. Then later, when you are independent you can make more of an informed choice about what you want to do. Even in your current situation, you can practice the Dharma, it is not necessary to become a monk or nun to progress on your spiritual path. Dharma can be practiced in any environment, and actually practising towards our family is the best. When we transform our minds and our behvariours and they see just how beneficial this transformation is, this is the best way to show them that Dharma is good. This was a piece of advice that Tsem Rinpoche used to tell people in family situations all the time. I hope this helps you.
  • March 26, 2024 02:28
    Rojal Poudel asked: How can I meet my guru? Does one need a guru for initiation for tantra and other stuff on the path to enlightenment? Does one need a guru to attain enlightenment?
    pastor answered: Dear Rojal, Thank you for your question. In regards to meeting your guru, there are many different ways. These days you can meet your guru online as well. For example, many people did not meet Tsem Rinpoche personally, but they consider him to be there guru. You may find this article interesting: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/the-guru-protocol-a-guide-to-knowing-who-your-guru-is.html In regards to tantra, yes, one definitely needs a qualified guru to bestow initiation and teach us the path of practice once you have initiation. In regards to our tradition, it is also considered necessary to have a guru to attain full enlightenment. Hope this helps. The article lined above will definitely help to answer some of your questions on a deeper level. Thank you.
  • March 25, 2024 10:35
    Rojal Poudel asked: How can you deepen your spiritual progress while sleeping? I heard some people can go to pure lands and get teachings directly from Buddha’s, Bodhisattva’s, and Dharma Protecters. Are these possible from Lucid Dreaming and Astral Projection?
    pastor answered: Dear Rojal, Thank you for your questions. It's always nice to see you here wanting to learn more. Yes it is definitely possible to deepen your practice in your sleep. This is done during practice of Highest Yoga Tantra, after receiving initiation and progressed along generation stage practice. This would obviously include everything before receiving such iniation such as having a basis and grounding in the Three Principle Aspects of the Path and the Lamrim teachings. In this practice you are able to use sleep to engage in meditation. This would need you to be able to lucid dream before hand. The ability to lucid dream itself can be developed a number of ways, but the most common is single-pointed mediation concentration during waking life. This is also known as Shamatha meditation. But in this case, the object of your meditation should be a mental one, rather than a physical one. The best would be a visualisation of the Buddha. All of this is outlined in the Lamrim teachings in the section on developing concentration. In terms of Astral Travel, yes it is definitely possible, and again there are different methods to go about this. Again this should be done only after having received the appropriate intiations and teachings from your guru. However, there are quite a few dangers involved with this. As Tsem Rinpoche mentioned before, the two main ones is that your consciousness is not able to return to your body and two that a spirit can take possession of your body if your protection is not strong and you have not invoked a Dharma protector to help with protection aspects. Another thing about astral travel, is that even if learn how to do it, it is not necessary that you can actually visit pure lands or receive teachings, etc. This is because, to do this, would require a lot of merit. So there are many things and practices to develop merit before you should engage in it. Often times, people who claim that they have received teachings or visited purelands, actually haven't though they may think that they did. It could simply be a projection of one's mind and in some serious cases perhaps even due to spirits mascarading. If you would like to learn lucid dreaming, please look into the teachings of single-pointed concentration normally. The ability of lucid dreaming comes naturally for those who progress in their shamatha meditation. As for astral travel practices, I would advise not to engage in such practices unless you receive the appropriate initiations, teachings from and under the strict supervision of a qualified guru. Hope this helps.
  • March 24, 2024 01:17
    Dirji asked: How can I see my kaytsa
    pastor answered: Dear Dirji, We are sorry, but we do not understand your question. Perhaps because you asked using the english phoenetics of the word. If possible, please post again using either the English translation of the word or using the Tibetan script, so that we can help you properly. Thank you.
  • March 23, 2024 12:11
    Marc asked: What is the direct translation of Tsem Rinpoche’s name mantra? Thank you 🙏🏽
    pastor answered: Dear Marc, Thank you for your question. You can find a translation of the meaning of Tsem Rinpoche's name mantra on Kechara's Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=683136630510067. Hope this helps. Thank you.
  • March 22, 2024 20:27
    Rojal Poudel asked: I am about to leave everything behind. I am tired of this life where I do the same thing everyday. I see everything but dharma as an illusion. I want to attain some sort of realization so that I can benefit other sentient beings. I am very inspired by the story of Milarepa, who gave up everything to learn dharma. Even the Buddha gave up comfort and luxury in search for this supreme truth. I also want to follow the Please tell me what I should do.
    pastor answered: Dear Rojal, We can understand that you feel this way, and seeing the illusion of life should definitely motivate us to want to achieve something more spiritual. In the past when people asked Tsem Rinpoche the same question, he used to tell people a couple of things: > The first is that there are two methods to deal with our spiritual path. The first is to physically renounce everything and go into the wilderness, like Buddha Shakyamuni and Milarepa did. To cut yourself from everyone and everything and meditate continuously for years until you achieve realisation. But this is very hard to do in our day and age. We still need to have contact with people, there are the necessities of life to think about. Rinpoche said we need to think about things from a practice angle also. It takes a very great level of practitioner with an immense store of merit to be able to do this successfully. > The second method is to keep living within our a community and use them as a support for the transformation of the mind and spiritual progress. For example, that it why we have monasteries and nunneries, or Dharma centres and organisations to help with spiritual practice. This method is more measured, but you can still gain the same results. This is the more practical method. Especially according to the Mahayana path of practice, Bodhisattvas need to practice certain qualities in our minds and we progress towards enlightenment. Such qualities include the Six Perfections, but if we are not around others, how do we practice them? In order to practice generosity, we need others to be generous towards. In order to practice patience, we need others to be patient towards. In order to practice morality and ethics, we need to be in situations to be able to practice our vows. Enlightened beings like Buddha and Milarepa were able to do all of this in their minds during meditation but as mentioned before they were already high level pracitioners with immense merit. For example, Buddha Shakyamuni had three countless aeons of consistent practice life time after life time until his achieved enlightenment. > Another thing that Rinpoche shared, that while understanding the drawbacks of life and the benefits of becoming enlightened, a lot of the time what happens these days is that it is mixed up with emotion due to the challenges of life. People are looking for an escape, but not an escape from samsara into enlightenment, but simple an escape from their current problems. The need for escape, known as renunciation in Buddhism, is not to simply escape samsara, but developed in a certain way through contemplation and meditation. When we have such feelings, we should analyse them to see if they are in accord with the teachings and the methods of developing true renunciation. Many people also have a unrealistic way of thinking about physical renunciation and the spiritual path in general. Most people think it is easy, but it is not, is difficult because we need to deal with our minds, our emotions, our traumas, etc, from countless lives. If we don't have a firm foundation in Dharma practice and transformation before we attempt something like Buddha Shakyamuni or Milarepa, we will give up after a while because we find it too hard. And perhaps give up spiritual practice because the path did not actually match our expectations. So the key is to be as realistic as possible about our spiritual path. So our advice, rather than give up everything, as you may have family or other responsibilities, is to use your current situation to transform your mind, to practice the teachings right now in life, so that you can start progressing along the spiritual life. The best way to do this is to practice the Lamrim teachings, which give you a firm roadmap of how and what to practice in a sequential manner. Giving up everything is not necessary to make real progress on the spiritual path, as outlined in the Lamrim, but sustained and consistent practice is the key. Then use the situations in your life to actualise that transformation. We hope this helps.
  • March 21, 2024 00:44
    Jason asked: I listened to Tsem Rinpoche’s dharma talk and was inspired to be patient and kind towards other. For a while I felt like my mind had transformed and I started being more proactive in helping others and making sure to complete my responsibilities as perfectly as I can to not burden others and taking the initiative to help people that I see are struggling with their work but recently I have been feeling like I’m actually harming others instead of helping them by being kind because I feel like I’m enabling their bad behavior and rude attitude, especially one person in particular that I have to work with. No matter how much I help and show kindness, they don’t seem to change…and now I feel like a pushover for smiling and helping them even though they don’t show any appreciation or respect for it and instead take advantage of me and push even more of their responsibilities on me. I’ve been having thoughts that my kindness and patience has just become a cover for fear of confrontation now. What should I do? I feel like I’m gonna lose control and lash out even though I try to focus my mind on how the people around me must be struggling
    pastor answered: Dear Jason, Thank you for your question. We are very happy to hear that Tsem Rinpoche's Dharma talks have inspired you, especially to practice patience and kindness towards others. Please do keep it up, the benefits of both qualities are immense and are central to spiritual transformation. We should always try our best to practice both patience and kindness, but sometimes practising it in the way we think may not be the best option. For example, in the case that you mentioned, it is not having the right effect on your own mind and also you are enabling your co-worker to exhibit negative behaviours as well. In this case, actually practising kindness would not be to become a pushover, taking more responsibilities, etc. This isn't beneficial for your or the co-worker. So here, practising kindness would actually be not to allow the person to do such things, but it should be practised with patience and not out of emotion. So you would do this in a very skilfful manner. The best would be to have a talk with your co-worker in a very calm manner and explain how you are feeling and how they are making you feel in the work environment, and try to sort out the situation before it progresses. Especially since you are having such thoughts of anger and the posibility of lashing out. Practicing kindness and patience is not at all become a push over or allowing others to skip out on their responsibilities, etc. We really hope this helps. Thank you.
  • March 20, 2024 14:49
    Sok asked: Hello respected pastors. Is Kusha grass same as Durva grass? How to obtain kusha grass?
    pastor answered: Dear Sok, Kusha grass and Durva grass are two different types of grass, they are not the same. Kusha grass is also known as halfa grass, big cordgrass, or salt reed-grass. Its scientific name is Desmostachya Bipinnata. In shape, each blade of grass is long and straight. Durva grass is also known as bermuda grass. Its scientific name is Cynodon Dactylon. In shape, each blade looks segmented and has smaller leaves sprouting from it. You can google the scientific name to see the difference between the two. Generally, they can be bought at Indian religious stores if there are any nearby where you live. Alternatively, if you live in Asia, you can buy a traditional grass broom, which you can substitue for the Kusha grass. It is a close relative of Kusha grass and the lamas have said that it can be used as substitue if you cannot find the actual grass. I hope this helps. Thank you.
  • March 19, 2024 20:56
    Bhavisha asked: How to know wheather specific LOCAL deity is enlighten or not?
    pastor answered: Dear Bhavisha, Local deities are not enlightened. They are sentient beings who look after or take care of a specific area. There are different names for these types of beings, such as local deities, Land God, Landowner deities, etc. They belong to the God Realm, but as other beings in the god realm, they are not enlightened. Hope this helps.
  • March 18, 2024 09:57
    Rojal Poudel asked: What comes after attaining samatha or calm abiding meditation?
    pastor answered: Dear Rojal, Nice to see you back here! Shamatha is a tool, basically through this meditation you develop single pointed concentration. But after developing that, you use it to engage in Vipashyana meditation, otherwise known as Special Insight. Different traditions have different version of Special Insight. In our tradition, we use this type of meditation to analyse what we call "emptiness." The teachings on the emptiness are the actual teaching that leads to enlightenment. All other teachings or practices help to prepare your mind to be able to do this. Shamatha comes in, because the topic of emptiness is so deep, that we need single-pointed concentration to analyse it. If we don't have this type of concentration, we will not be able to understand emptiness. Hence, shamatha and vipashyana meditation are used in tandem to achieve enlightenment. This may seem a little abstract. The Lamrim teachings go into this in a lot of detail. They can be found in the chapters dealing with the Concentration and Wisdom as part of the Six Perfections in the Great Scope sections of the Lamrim. Hope this helps. Thank you.
  • March 17, 2024 23:16
    Jonathan Tan asked: Hi Dear Pastor, I am curious if H.E 25th Tsem Rinpoche had any heart disciples (son/daughter) Is there a difference between heart and root disciples?
    pastor answered: Dear Jonathan, Thank you for your question. There is no one heart disciple of Tsem Rinpoche. This usually refers to specific person who carries on the teachings and practices of a particular teacher. Tsem Rinpoche wanted something different for Kechara, hence we carry on his teachings and practices as a group, rather than one specific person. Rinpoche trained his students, who are either Sangha, Pastors or senior students in various ways of continuing his teachings, especially through the work that they do. In this way, we continue Rinpoche's teachings as a group rather than any one heart disciple. Hope that this helps. Thank you.
  • March 16, 2024 01:18
    Sirius asked: Hi dear pastors, I'd like to get recomendations on how to improve my actual sadhana. My morning starts by taking refuge and making offerings to the three jewls, followed by Lama Tsongkhapa's Guru Yoga. After this I usually study Lam Rim, and other Dharma Texts. During the afternoon I meditate for a about an hour or so, and somedays I do the Dorje Shugden sadhana given by Rinpoche. Finally at night I finish my day by doing Vajrasattva meditation and confession to the 35 Buddhas. What else can I do to improve my sadhana? What practices would you recomend me to do? Do you have recomendations on texts I could read? I would like to add that I live in Argentina, and I do not have any buddhist temple near sadly, so I cannot go there to practice, learm or collab. I would appreciate advice on this. Thank you in advance.
    pastor answered: Dear Sirius, Thank you for your question. In terms of practice, you are doing a lot. We are very happy to read that you are doing all these beneficial practices. They will be very beneficial for you. What you are doing is very good already, the only thing that I would say is to make the Dorje Shugden sadhana consistent as well as the others. If you are doing the short Diamond Path sadhana, it includes the Vajrasatta meditations, so you don't have to do it separately. We just have some points to help you improve your practice: > First is whenever you do any of the practices, is it vital to make sure you take refuge, generate bodhicitta and practice the four immeasurables before each session. And then at the end of the session, make sure to dedicate. This seals the merit generated from your practice. This is very important as if we don't have the correct motivation at the beginning and dedicate it at the end, since the merit is not sealed, the positive potential is destroyed when we have disturbing emotions, especially anger. > The second is to be consistent in your practices and do them daily. If you cannot be consistent with the practices you are doing at the moment, then reduce what you are doing to make it simple, for example just the Diamond Path (which includes Tsongkhapa's Guru Yoga anyway). Then once you are consistent daily, later you can slow add in other practices and become consistent with them. > The third is to keep revising the teachings on these practices, understand the motivation, deepen your visualisations, etc. > In regards to your meditation, if you are doing breathing or concentration meditation, again, revise the teachings again and again to make your practice stronger and understand where you are on your meditational path. > You can also spend some time every day, maybe five or ten minutes contemplating the Lamrim teachings step by step. This itself is extremely transformational and will propel you along the spiritual path. In regards to what else to study or read, here is a very good article: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/books-that-are-a-must-read.html If you consider Tsem Rinpoche to be your spiritual teacher, there are thousands of hours of teachings on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoTg0Wc5q3Gnz8ej3ETCdMQ You can watch and re-watch them to deepen your understanding and practice. I hope all of this helps.
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CHAT PICTURES

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