Zanabazar: The First High Saint of Mongolia

Feb 9, 2019 | Views: 14,262

Zanabazar, the high saint of Mongolia (1635-1723) (click to enlarge)

(By Tsem Rinpoche)

Zanabazar (1635-1723) was the first high saint (Ondor Gegeen) of Mongolia. Although he was born to an aristocratic Khalkha Mongol family, Zanabazar is remembered today not for his privileged background, but for using his immense talent and charisma to propagate Buddhism and benefit his fellow countrymen.

Widely regarded as the “Michelangelo of Asia”, Zanabazar was a renowned painter, sculptor, architect and costume designer. His artistic skills were matched by his literary prowess as a Buddhist scholar, linguist and poet. Historians say that he single-handedly ushered Mongolia into a period of cultural renaissance. In addition to these talents, Zanabazar was a charismatic leader and an astute politician. Zanabazar’s use of his artworks as a tool of diplomacy was crucial to the survival of the Khalkha Mongols and the influence they wielded. Today, almost three centuries after his death, Zanabazar continues to inspire many to achieve their personal best and to be a beacon of light and hope.

 

Political Background

The 3rd Dalai Lama, Sonam Gyatso (1543 – 1588) (click to enlarge)

The 3rd Dalai Lama, Sonam Gyatso (1543 – 1588) (click to enlarge)

Altan Khan (1507–1582) (click to enlarge)

Altan Khan (1507–1582) (click to enlarge)

We have to understand the political circumstances into which Zanabazar was born, to fully appreciate his life, influence and the significance of his deeds. In 1578, approximately six decades before Zanabazar was born, Altan Khan (1507–1582), an ambitious Mongolian military leader forged a mutually beneficial relationship with Sonam Gyatso (1543-1588), a Tibetan Buddhist spiritual leader of the Yellow Hat (Gelug) tradition. Sonam Gyatso recognised Altan Khan as the reincarnation of Genghis Khan. In return, Altan Khan recognised Sonam Gyatso as the reincarnation of an influential 13th-century lama, Lama Drogon Chogyal Phagpa. He bestowed upon him the title of Dalai Lama (“Ocean Lama”) and Ochirdara (“Vajradhara”). The Dalai Lama title was posthumously conferred upon the two incarnations who preceded Sonam Gyatso as well.

Hong Taiji (r. 1626-1643), the 1st Emperor of the Qing Dynasty (click to enlarge)

This understanding between Altan Khan and Sonam Gyatso set an important precedent; the role of spiritual recognition in legitimising the power of Mongolian aristocracy. For the next century, the Mongol ruling class continued to seek the blessings of Tibetan spiritual leaders to affirm their authority. In return, these spiritual leaders were allowed to spread Buddhist doctrine and build temples (datsan in Mongolian) across the country.

However, by the 17th century, Mongolian power was in decline. In 1632, Emperor Hong Taiji (皇太極) (r. 1626 – 1643), the first emperor of the Qing Dynasty, launched a campaign against the unpopular Ligdan Khan (r. 1603–1634). Ligdan Khan fled to Kokenuur where he died of smallpox two years later. His son, Ejei Khan, was handed over to the Qing Dynasty, and this marked the beginning of the Qing Dynasty rule over Inner Mongolia.

 

Early Life

The birth place of Zanabazar

The birth place of Zanabazar

Zanabazar was born in 1635 to a prominent Khalkha Mongolian aristocratic family in present-day Yesönzüil, a province in Southern Mongolia. He was the second son of Tusheet Khan Gombodorj (1594-1655) and Khandojamtso. Zanabazar was given the birth name Eshidorji. His family’s ancestry could be traced back to the great Genghis Khan, and Zanabazar was the grandson of Altan Khan’s nephew, Abtai Sain Khan (1554–1588).

Zanabazar’s mother, Khandojamtso

Zanabazar’s mother, Khandojamtso (click to enlarge)

Just like his uncle, Abtai Sain Khan had been a great patron of the Gelug school and propagated this tradition among the Khalkha Mongols. Even as a child, Zanabazar displayed extraordinary intelligence and devotion. He was able to recite the Praise of Manjushri (Jambaltsanjod) perfectly when he was just three years old. Zanabazar also excelled in Tibetan and Indian scriptures, as well as in other fields as diverse as medicine, literature, philosophy, art and architecture. By 1640, Zanabazar’s extraordinary qualities had become widely known. The assembly of Khalkha nobles decided to acknowledge Zanabazar as a high saint (Ondor Gegeen) or “Holy Enlightened One” (Bogd Gegeen) and the Khalkha supreme religious leader. The members of the Khalkha aristocracy pledged their allegiance to him in Tsagaan Nuur.

Tsagaan Nuur, the place where was enthroned as Ondor Gegeen

Tsagaan Nuur, the place where Zanabazar was enthroned as Ondor Gegeen

After the acknowledgement, Zanabazar was selected to preside over the monastery near Tsagaan-nuur, in present-day Khovsgol Province. The recognition of Genghis Khan’s descendant as a living Buddha (khutagt) carried political significance. It strengthened the prestige of the Khalkha nobility and accorded them religious legitimacy.

In 1647, Zanabazar‘s relatives took him to Beijing to pay homage to the newly crowned Emperor Shunzhi (順治帝). Zanabazar became the first patriarch, the highest-ranking lama after the Dalai Lama and the Panchen Lama, to be recognised by the Qing Dynasty. In the same year, aged just 12, Zanabazar established his own monastery in a travelling ger camp. This monastery was initially known as Baruun Khuree or Monastery of the West and later renamed Shankh Monastery. In 1787, this monastery was located in Ovorkhangai Province, Mongolia.

Baruun Khuree Monastery in Ovorkhangai Province, Mongolia in 1787

Baruun Khuree Monastery in Ovorkhangai Province, Mongolia

Zanabazar’s school dress (left) and the child dress that he was using at Baruun Khuree Monastery (right)

 

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Recognition in Tibet

In 1649, Zanabazar entered Tibet’s famed Drepung Monastery.

In 1649, Zanabazar entered Tibet’s famed Drepung Monastery.

Mongolia and Tibet enjoyed a close religious and political relationship and many Mongolian monks studied in Tibet. In 1649, Zanabazar entered Tibet’s famed Drepung Monastery, where he studied the profound sutric and tantric traditions under the guidance of the two highest Gelug lamas, the 4th Panchen Lama, Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen (1570-1662) and his disciple, the 5th Dalai Lama, Lobsang Gyatso (1617-1682). In Tibet, Zanabazar also studied various artistic techniques, including bronze casting.

The fourth Panchen Lama, Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen (click to enlarge)

The 4th Panchen Lama, Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen (click to enlarge)

The fifth Dalai Lama, Lobsang Gyatso (click to enlarge)

The 5th Dalai Lama, Lobsang Gyatso (click to enlarge)

The 5th Dalai Lama recognised Zanabazar as the reincarnate leader of the Jonang school, Taranatha (1575-1634), who entered clear light one year before Zanabazar’s birth. This lineage of incarnation could be traced back to Khutuktu Jetsundampa, one of Buddha Shakyamuni’s original disciples. Zanabazar was his 16th reincarnation. Taranatha was a legendary scholar and, as his reincarnation, Zanabazar was given the Sanskrit name of Jnana-Vajra, which means Wisdom Vajra. This name later became Zanabazar.

It was politically significant that Zanabazar accepted the Dalai Lama’s recognition of his incarnation line. It meant that Zanabazar accepted the authority of the Dalai Lama and the supremacy of the Gelug sect. After several years of study, the Dalai Lama advised him to return to Mongolia to propagate Buddhism.

 

About Taranatha

Taranatha (1575-1634) (click to enlarge)

Taranatha (1575–1634) was a great scholar of the Jonangpa school of Tibetan Buddhism and a prolific writer. He was closely associated with the practice of Kalachakra Tantra and Tara. Taranatha studied under the guidance of many great masters that included the Indian teacher, Buddhaguptanatha as well as Je Draktopa, Kunga Tashi, Yeshe Wangpo and Jampa Lhundrup.

Among Taranatha’s important literary works are “History of Buddhism in India”, “The Golden Rosary”, “The Origins of the Tantra of the Bodhisattva Tara”, “Twenty-One Profound Meanings” and “Commentary on the Heart Sutra”. Several of these precious writings have survived the test of time and are available to modern readers in several languages, including English. In 1614, Taranatha went to Mongolia to propagate Buddhism and established several monasteries there.

 

Zanabazar: The God King of Mongolia


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Rise to Power

A portrait of Zanabazar from the 19th century

A portrait of Zanabazar from the 19th century (click to enlarge)

In 1651, Zanabazar returned to Outer Mongolia, accompanied by 600 artists, craftsmen and monks. It was a testament to his remarkable charisma that, at the age of sixteen, he was able to inspire so many people to leave behind everything they knew to follow him.

Upon his return, Zanabazar assumed his place as the spiritual and political leader of the Khalkha Mongols. Besides the construction of many monasteries and temples, he introduced innovations in religious rituals, socialised the prayer texts that he composed and modified the chanting melodies. He designed new robes for the Mongolian monastics and sent monks to the three great Gelug monasteries (i.e., Sera, Gaden, Drepung) and Tashi Lhunpo for advanced studies. Zanabazar himself was known to have made another visit to Tibet in 1656.

Tovkhon Monastery

Tovkhon Monastery

In 1653, he built Happy Secluded Place (Bayasgalant Aglag Oron) Monastery on the Shireet Ulaan Uul Mountain. The name of this monastery would later be changed to Tovkhon Monastery. Zanabazar produced many of his most famous works of art there. Among the other monasteries he built were Ikh Khuree on Khentii Mountain (1654), Saridgiin Monastery on Khentii Mountain (1680) where the remains of Taranatha were enshrined and Zuun Khuree (1702).

In addition to these permanent structures, Zanabazar built several mobile temples to adapt to the nomadic lifestyle of his followers. These temples contained religious sculptures, paintings and wall ornaments designed in beautiful Nepalese-Tibetan style. Some of the works were created by Zanabazar and his students while others had been brought from Tibet.

Zanabazar’s Green Tara

Zanabazar’s Green Tara (click to enlarge)

Zanabazar, an astute political and spiritual leader, accepted Qing’s sovereignty over Mongolia. By the late 1650s, he had managed to consolidate his authority over the Khalkha tribal leaders. In 1658, Zanabazar led the assembly of nobles at Erdene Zuu Monastery, which had been established by his grandfather, Abtai Sain Khan. In 1659, he conferred titles to Mongolian aristocrats at Olziit Tsagaan Nuur. Zanabazar utilised the gers offered by the Khalkha nobility during his recognition in 1639 as his mobile palatial residence (Orgoo). The mobile palace became known as Yellow Screen Palace (Shira Busiin Ord). In 1778, Zanabazar settled it near the Selbe and Tuul rivers at the foot of Bogd Khan Mountain. This location would later become known as Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia.

 

Erdene Zuu Monastery


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Zanabazar’s Yellow Screen Palace

Zanabazar’s Yellow Screen Palace

Zanabazar established several departments to manage the monasteries and temples including:

  • Department of Treasury
  • Department of Administration
  • Department of Meals
  • Department of the Honoured Doctor

 

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Artistic Endeavours

Zanabazar’s Akshobhya Buddha (click to enlarge)

Zanabazar is regarded as an artist extraordinaire and the face of the Mongolian Renaissance. His fame spread to other Buddhist countries during his lifetime and travelled even further in the centuries since. In addition to his skills in medicine, language and astronomy, he was a talented painter, musician and bronze and copper caster. Together with his students and craftsmen, Zanabazar produced many bronze Buddha statues and Buddhist paintings (thangkas).

Zanabazar admired the Nepalese artistic style which was prevalent in the Gelug School at the time. His admiration is apparent in the artwork that he produced. In the 1670s and 1680s, Zanabazar and his apprentices produced hundreds of Buddhist-inspired artworks at Tovkhon Monastery. He wanted to fill the monasteries and temples with these inspiring pieces and connect the spirit of Buddhism to the masses beyond the confines of the nobility and the monastic community.

Zanabazar’s Vairochana (click to enlarge)

Zanabazar’s Vairochana (click to enlarge)

The statues were made in the style known today as the “Zanabazar School”, which uses a hollow yet seamless brass casting technique. Zanabazar discovered the sculpting technique known as lost-wax casting that allowed him to make brass statues without the need for welding. The statues are usually depicted in deep meditation, guided by the desire to liberate sentient beings from their delusions. Zanabazar’s female Buddhas are infused with feminine beauty. They are typically depicted with arched eyebrows, small but fleshy lips, high nose and forehead. Among his greatest surviving works are the statues of Green Tara, White Tara, Standing Maitreya, Twenty-One Taras, the Five Dhyani Buddhas, Vajrasattva, Sitasamvara and Vajradhara.

Nicholas Roerich, a renowned Russian painter, archaeologist and writer of the 19th century wrote that Zanabazar’s work represents “the nomads’ aesthetic views on art, their worldview and mentality.” [mfa.gov.mn]

Zanabazar continued to produce these beautiful statues and other artworks at Tovkhon Monastery until 1688, when the Dzungar Oirat Mongols destroyed the premises in their war with the Khalkha Mongols.

Zanabazar’s Rantasambhava

Zanabazar’s Rantasambhava (click to enlarge)

 

Writing Scripts

 

Soyombo Script

Monument with Soyombo Script at Erdene Zuu Monastery (click to enlarge)

In 1686, Zanabazar designed a writing script known as the Soyombo Script. It was based on the Lantsa script from India. Soyombo was also known as “Svayambhu”, which means “self-sprung”. In the same year, Zanabazar commenced his project to translate the Kangyur, the spoken words of the Buddha into Mongolian. He also printed many Mahayana Sutras and the texts that he had composed.

Today, Soyombo Script can still be found in inscriptions in Mongolian temples and historical texts. Since 1921, Soyombo symbols have been featured on Mongolia’s national emblem and can be found on its currency, stamps and the national flag.

 

Horizontal Square Script

Zanabazar’s Horizontal Square Script (click to enlarge)

Zanabazar’s Horizontal Square Script (click to enlarge)

In addition to the Soyombo Script, Zanabazar designed the Horizontal Square Script (Xawtaa Dorboljin) for writing Sanskrit, Tibetan and Mongolian. The script has similarities with the Tibetan script and the Phags-pa script, which was created by Drogon Chogyal Phagpa, a 13th-century Mongolian lama. This script is less common and mainly used in calligraphy manuals. Presently, the Horizontal Square Script and Soyombo Script could be found in Buddhist inscription known among the limited group of learned Buddhist scholars in Mongolia.

 

Selected Readings (Free Download)

Ondor Gegeen Zanabazar and His Role in the Mongolian Culture (click to download PDF)

Töwkhön, The Retreat of Ondor Gegeen Zanabazar as a Pilgrimage Site (click to download PDF)

The texts above were sourced from legitimate book-hosting services offering these texts for free download. They are made available here for purely educational, non-commercial purposes.

 

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Art as a Tool of Diplomacy

Galdan Boshugtu Khan (1644-1697) (click to enlarge)

As a farsighted politician and an astute diplomat, Zanabazar used his artworks to win protection, appease enemies and forge bilateral relationships with considerable success. When conflict threatened the peace between the Khalkha and the Dzungar Mongols, Zanabazar used his sacred text and artwork to earn the trust of Galdan Boshugtu Khan (1644-1697), the Dzungar leader. Like Zanabazar, Galdan had studied Buddhism in Tibet under the guidance of the 4th Panchen Lama and the 5th Dalai Lama. In 1686, Zanabazar attended a peace conference initiated by the Qing Emperor Kangxi (康熙) (1654-1722) to forge reconciliation between the Khalkhas and the Dzungars. The 5th Dalai Lama also advocated peace and advised Galdan Boshugtu Khan to maintain the spirit of non-aggression in the region.

Emperor Kangxi (1654-1722) (click to enlarge)

Emperor Kangxi (1654-1722) (click to enlarge)

Unfortunately, the fragile peace between the Khalkhas and the Dzungars collapsed when the forces of Khalkha Tusheet Khan killed Galdan Boshugtu Khan’s brother in 1687. The hideous conflict culminated in an all-out war between the Khalkhas and the Dzungars that led to the destruction of Zanabazar’s beloved Tovkhon Monastery and several other important places of worship. In 1688, Zanabazar and 20,000 Khalkha refugees had to escape to Inner Mongolia and seek the protection of Emperor Kangxi.

Zanabazar gave his beautiful artwork to Emperor Kangxi and offered to make Khalkha Mongols lands a protectorate of the Qing Empire. His sincerity, wisdom and knowledge of Buddhism earned the trust, respect and admiration of Emperor Kangxi.

 

The Battle of Jao Modo

 

Background

In 1691, Zanabazar had convinced three Khalkha rulers to submit themselves to Qing authority.

In 1691, Zanabazar convinced three Khalkha rulers to submit themselves to Qing authority (click to enlarge)

Emperor Kangxi knew that if the Dzungars prevailed over the Khalkha, they would pose a threat to the relatively young Qing Empire. No Qing ruler wanted a unified Mongolia; tales of the devastation wreaked by the 13th century Mongol conquests weighed heavily on their minds. Emperor Kangxi agreed to send his army to help subdue Galdan Boshugtu Khan’s forces. In 1690, the Qing managed to lure the Dzungars to an area 350 km (217.4 mi) north of Beijing with the promise of peace negotiations. Here, the Khalkhas with the support of the Qing army ambushed them in what we know today as the Battle of Ulan Butung.

The Battle of Ulan Butung (click to enlarge)

The Battle of Ulan Butung

The outraged Galdan Khan and his remaining forces managed to escape to the upper part of the Kherlen River where they camped for the next six years. During this period, Zanabazar spent his time in China as the spiritual mentor of Emperor Kangxi, who bestowed upon him the title of “Da Lama” (Great Lama). Zanabazar divided his time between Beijing in the winter and Jehol in the summer. In 1691, Zanabazar convinced three Khalkha rulers to submit themselves to Qing authority. With their troops added to the emperor’s army, the force was so large that they required 1,333 carts just to carry food provisions. Emperor Kangxi began to prepare for a decisive battle against the Dzungars.

 

The Battle

Emperor Kangxi in his armour (click to enlarge)

Emperor Kangxi in his armour (click to enlarge)

In March 1696, Emperor Kangxi led 80,000 troops and 235 cannons across the Gobi Desert. His General-In-Chief, Fiyanggu led an army of 30,000 troops with another 10,000 on standby to trap Galdan Khan. At first, Galdan Khan outsmarted them and escaped from his camp at the Kherlen River. On June 12, 1696, 5,000 of Galdan Khan’s soldiers were sent to fight the Fiyanggu army. Unfortunately, this manoeuvre sent them to the heart of the Qing army and forced them to fight for their lives. The Qing army gained their first victory and seized the surrounding hills, which then served as strategic locations from where they could attack the Dzungars.

The Qing army camp at the Kherlen River

The Qing army camp at the Kherlen River (click to enlarge)

They fired their cannons and used wooden barricades as shields from counter attacks. Perhaps because he had predicted his own doom, Galdan Khan instructed his troops to attack the heart of the Qing army. The suicidal strategy seemed to work and the centre of the Qing army was in disarray. However, another detachment attacked the Dzungars from behind to capture their provisions, and the Dzungar troops started to flee. Galdan Khan’s warrior queen, Anu, led a counterattack to enable her husband to escape. She was successful but died in the process. Galdan Khan escaped to the Altai Mountain with his few remaining troops and died of illness on April 4, 1697.

The map of Dzungar-Qing Wars

The map of Dzungar-Qing Wars (click to enlarge)

 

Aftermath

After their defeat at the Battle of Jao Modo, the Dzungars were pushed to the westernmost part of the Qing Empire until their ultimate defeat in 1758 at the battle of Oroi-Jalatu and Khurungun.

The battle of Oroi-Jalatu

The battle of Oroi-Jalatu (click to enlarge)

 

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The Spiritual Mentor to the Qing Emperor

Zanabazar’s self portrait

Zanabazar’s self portrait (click to enlarge)

Zanabazar stayed in China for several years after the battle of Jao Modo. He was a respected member of the Qing Court, renowned for his wisdom. Emperor Kangxi and many in the court became devout Buddhists. His contributions to the Qing Court allowed the Mongols to preserve their unique identity, lifestyle and political borders. In 1698, Emperor Kangxi invited Zanabazar to go with him on a pilgrimage to Mount Wutai, the earthly abode of Manjushri, the Buddha of Wisdom. In 1699, Zanabazar visited Khalkha Mongolia briefly to attend the funeral of his elder brother, Tusheet Khan Chankhuundorj. Even after Zanabazar returned home permanently in 1701, he made annual journeys to Beijing to visit the emperor.

 

Later Life and Death

Erdene Zuu Monastery

Erdene Zuu Monastery

Upon his return to Khalkha Mongolia in 1701, the 66-year-old Zanabazar started to work on the restoration of Erdene Zuu Monastery. It had been severely damaged by Galdan Khan’s troops in 1688. He also oversaw the construction of various other Buddhist monasteries and places of worship.

On December 20, 1722, Zanabazar’s patron and student, Emperor Kangxi passed away. Despite his advanced age, Zanabazar travelled to China to preside over the funeral rites at Yellow Monastery (Huang Si, 黃寺) in Beijing. On February 18, 1723, less than two months after Emperor Kangxi’s demise, Zanabazar entered clear light at 88 years of age. There were rumours that the new emperor, Yongzheng (雍正) poisoned him. However, this allegation has never been proven. He was embalmed and his body was returned to Urga, the present-day Ulaanbaatar.

Zanabazar’s tomb temple

Zanabazar’s tomb temple

After the demise of Zanabazar, his brother’s great-grandson was recognised as his incarnation. He was enthroned with the support of the Qing court and the Yellow Hat clergy in Lhasa, Tibet.

To enshrine Zanabazar’s remains, Emperor Yongzheng had a monastery built at the spot where his mobile residence was encamped at the time of his passing. Constructed at a cost of 100,000 liang silver (approx. USD 2.2 million in today’s money), its architecture resembled that of the emperor’s own palace. It was dedicated to Zanabazar’s main deity, Maitreya.

Amarbayasgalant Monastery

Amarbayasgalant Monastery

This monastery would later become known as the Amarbayasgalant Monastery. It was completed in 1736, one year after Emperor Yongzheng’s death. Zanabazar’s remains were finally laid to rest in a stupa at Amarbayasgalant Monastery in 1779. It was partly destroyed during the Stalinist purges of 1937 and the remains of the great Zanabazar were removed and cremated in the nearby hills. Today, only 28 of the 40 original buildings of the complex remain. UNESCO has been funding a restoration project at this historic site since the late 1980s.

Amarbayasgalant Monastery complex

Amarbayasgalant Monastery complex

 

Amarbayasgalant Monastery


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How Zanabazar’s Contribution is Viewed Today

Zanabazar’s handprint (click to enlarge)

Today, Zanabazar is considered a larger than life historical figure. Not only is he celebrated for his role in propagating Buddhism in Mongolia, but also for ushering the Mongols into a period of cultural renaissance and establishing their unique cultural identity.

Even during Mongolia’s socialist era from 1921 to 1991, Zanabazar was acknowledged for his artistic achievements, cultural contribution and as a great scholar. However, Socialists regarded Zanabazar as a traitor for capitulating to Qing sovereignty and for his role in having three Khalkha rulers follow suit in 1691. In today’s post-socialist era, however, Zanabazar has been absolved from that treasonous image. It is generally agreed today that he was acting for the long-term interest of Mongolia by allying himself with the Qing Empire.

Zanabazar’s shirt

Zanabazar’s shirt

Today, a Mongolian artist painter and a Buddhist teacher, Gankhuugiin Purevbat, is working with his disciples to revive the Mongolian Renaissance that was started by Zanabazar almost three centuries ago.

With the help of his disciples, Purevbat rebuilt the Zanabazar Mongolian Institute of Buddhist Art, which was a part of Gandantegchinlen Monastery. The Communists destroyed the monastery in 1937. With this institute, Purevbat promotes the education of artists and art teachers and regularly organises exhibitions on various art forms such as dance, painting, and sculptures.

 

Purevbat’s Dream: The Renaissance of Buddhist Art in Mongolia


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The Portraits of Zanabazar

As he was one of the greatest Buddhist masters of his time, Zanabazar’s images have been treated as objects of devotion. They have been crafted using materials ranging from wood, bronze and smaller moulds. This suggests that these images were mass-produced and in high demand. Many of them still survive today. The two more common ones are:

 

Zanabazar Holding Vajra and Bell

Click to enlarge

Click to enlarge

Click to enlarge

Click to enlarge

In this image, Zanabazar is depicted holding two implements that he inherited from Taranatha, his previous incarnation. His right-hand holds a vajra at his chest, and his left-hand holds a ritual bell at his stomach. It is also said that the vajra and bell represent wisdom and compassion, the two essential qualities that will lead practitioners to enlightenment. Zanabazar’s head was round, which is attributed to the comment that Emperor Kangxi’s mother made when she first saw him, “This Blessed One of yours is a beautiful lama, like [a] full moon.” [asianart.com]

 

Zanabazar Cutting Meat

A portrait of Zanabazar cutting meat

A portrait of Zanabazar cutting meat (click to enlarge)

It is generally accepted that the image of Zanabazar holding the vajra and bell is for religious practitioners. For other Mongolians, Zanabazar wanted an image depicting him cutting a cooked sheep with a sharp knife. The meat represents abundant wealth, and the sharp knife represents the Mongolian people’s intelligence. In this painting, Zanabazar is depicted in a Mongolian attire.

According to Aleksei Pozdneyev, a 19th-century Russian who specialised in Mongolian studies, the 4th Bogd Gegeen instructed that the reliquary stupa that housed Zanabazar’s mummified body be opened in 1798. This was to allow a talented artist to paint a realistic portrait of Zanabazar.

 

The Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum

The Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum

The Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum

In 1966, the Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum was established in the Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar. The museum displays paintings, carvings and sculptures by Zanabazar, including the five Dhyani Buddhas. It also contains works by other artists from the 17th to the 20th century, Buddhist ritual items such as the tsam mask and many precious artefacts.

Since 2004, the Zanabazar Museum of Fine Art has been part of the UNESCO Programme for the Preservation of Endangered Movable Cultural Properties and Museum Development.

 

Zanabazar Museum Ulaanbaatar


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Other Legacies

Today, almost three centuries after his death, Mongols continued to revere Zanabazar and promote his legacy:

  • In 1970, the Zanabazar Buddhist University was established in Ulaanbaatar
  • A street in the centre of the Mongolian capital is named Ondor Gegeen Zanabazar after him (Өндөр Гэгээн Занабазарын гудамж)
  • In 2009, a genus of dinosaur was named after Zanabazar.
A genus dinosaur named after Zanabazar

A genus dinosaur named after Zanabazar

 

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Selected Artworks Related to Zanabazar

Zanabazar’s Green Tara

Zanabazar’s Green Tara (click to enlarge)

Zanabazar’s Vairochana (click to enlarge)

Zanabazar’s Vairochana (click to enlarge)

Standing Manjushri (left), Standing Maitreya (middle), and Sitting Maitreya (right) by Zanabazar (click to enlarge)

Standing Manjushri (left), Standing Maitreya (middle), and Sitting Maitreya (right) by Zanabazar (click to enlarge)

Maitreya (left), Zanabazar (middle), and Tara (right) at Choijin Lama Museum in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. The Maitreya and Tara statues were made by Zanabazar (click to enlarge)

Maitreya (left), Zanabazar (middle), and Vajrapani (right) at Choijin Lama Museum in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. The Maitreya statue was made by Zanabazar (click to enlarge)

Bodi Suvarga Stupa by Zanabazar (click to enlarge)

Bodi Suvarga Stupa by Zanabazar (click to enlarge)

Sita Samvara by Zanabazar (click to enlarge)

Sita Samvara by Zanabazar (click to enlarge)

Akshobhya (left), Amitabha (middle), and Amoghasiddhi (right) by Zanabazar (click to enlarge)

Akshobhya (left), Amitabha (middle), and Amoghasiddhi (right) by Zanabazar (click to enlarge)

Amitayus by Zanabazar (click to enlarge)

Amitayus by Zanabazar (click to enlarge)

Taras by Zanabazar (click to enlarge)

Taras by Zanabazar (click to enlarge)

White Tara by Zanabazar (click to enlarge)

White Tara by Zanabazar (click to enlarge)

More Taras by Zanabazar (click to enlarge)

More Taras by Zanabazar (click to enlarge)

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Sources:

  • “Zanabazar”, Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia, 15 August 2018, [website], https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zanabazar (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • “Taranatha”, Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia, 18 October 2018, [website], https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taranatha (accessed 18 October 2018).
  • “Battle of Jao Modo”, Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia, 16 September 2018, [website], https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Jao_Modo (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • “Galdan Boshugtu Khan”, Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia, 16 September 2018, [website], https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galdan_Boshugtu_Khan (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • “Queen Anu”, Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia, 25 October 2017, [website], https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Queen_Anu (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • “Mongolian Exhibition”, Asian Arts, [website], http://asianart.com/mongolia/zanabazr.html (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • “MONGOLIAN LEGENDARY PERSONS: ZANABAZAR (1635-1723)”, Legend Tour, [website], https://www.legendtour.ru/eng/mongolia/history/zanabazar.shtml (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • “Fine Arts Museum, Ulaanbaatar: Zanabazar and his school”, University of Washington, [website], https://depts.washington.edu/silkroad/museums/ubart/zanabazar.html (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • “The rise of Genghis Khan”, ENCYCLOPÆDIA BRITANNICA, [website], https://www.britannica.com/place/Mongolia/The-rise-of-Genghis-Khan#ref1111706 (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • “Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts”, Lonely Planet, [website], https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mongolia/ulaanbaatar/attractions/zanabazar-museum-of-fine-arts/a/poi-sig/434876/357066 (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • Watt, Jeff, “Teacher: Yeshe Dorje (Zanabazar) Cutting Meat”, Himalayan Art Resources, December 2015, [website], https://www.himalayanart.org/search/set.cfm?setID=4230 (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • Croner, Don, “Guide to Locales Connected With The Life of Zanabazar: First Bogd Gegeen Of Mongolia”, BookSurge Publishing, March 2, 2006.
  • Tsultemin, Uranchimeg, “Zanabazar (1635–1723): Vajrayāna Art and the State in Medieval Mongolia”, Oxford Scholarship Online, [website], http://www.oxfordscholarship.com/view/10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199958641.001.0001/acprof-9780199958641-chapter-7 (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • “The Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum, Mongolia”, ASEMUS: Asia – Europe Museum Network, [website], http://asemus.museum/museum/fine-arts-zanabazar-museum-mongolia/ (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • “The Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum”, Google Arts & Culture, [website], https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/the-fine-arts-zanabazar-museum (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • “BabelStone Zanabazar”, BabelStone Fonts, [website], http://www.babelstone.co.uk/Fonts/Zanabazar.html (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • “Zanabazar Square”, ScriptSource, [website], http://scriptsource.org/cms/scripts/page.php?item_id=script_detail&key=Zanb (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • Aldrich, M.A., “The Dalai Lama in Mongolia: ‘Tournament of Shadows’ Reborn”, The Diplomat, 3 December 2016, https://thediplomat.com/2016/12/the-dalai-lama-in-mongolia-tournament-of-shadows-reborn/ (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • Khash-Erdene, B., “Zanabazar – the Michelangelo of Asia” UB Post, 20 August 2012, http://ubpost.mongolnews.mn/?p=619 (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • “Undur Gegeen Zanabazar”, Buddhist tour Mongolia, 9 May 2016, [website], https://www.buddhisttourmongolia.com/buddhism-in-mongolia/undur-gegeen-zanabazar/ (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • “G.ZANABAZAR, HIGH PRIEST AND ARTIST”, Angelfire, [website], http://www.angelfire.com/mn2/zanabazar/english/biogriphy.htm (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • “1st Jebtsundamba Khutuktu, Zanabazar”, chinabuddhismencyclopedia.com, [website], http://www.chinabuddhismencyclopedia.com/en/index.php?title=1st_Jebtsundamba_Khutuktu,_Zanabazar (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • “Beginning of Spread of the Yellow Sect of Buddhism in Mongolia”, Mongols.eu, [website], http://www.mongols.eu/mongolia/history-buddhism-mongolia/history-of-the-yellow-sect-of-buddhims-in-mongolia/ (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • “Undur Gegeen G. Zanabazar”, Google Arts & Culture, [website], https://artsandculture.google.com/asset/undur-gegeen-g-zanabazar/_QHVVsjza7D_vA (accessed 10 October 2018).
  • “A Mongolian tsatsa with a portrait of Ondor Gegeen Zanabazar (1635-1723), in a ga´u. 19th century”, lempertz.com, [website], https://www.lempertz.com/ru/catalogues/lot/1112-1/38-a-mongolian-tsatsa-with-a-portrait-of-oendoer-gegeen-zanabazar-1635-1723-in-a-gau-19th-cent.html (accessed 10 October 2018).

 

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8 Responses to Zanabazar: The First High Saint of Mongolia

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  1. Samfoonheei on Jan 3, 2022 at 3:01 pm

    Zanabazar was the sixteenth Jebtsundamba Khutuktu and the first supreme spiritual authority, of the Gelugpa lineage of Tibetan Buddhism in Mongolia. Zanabazar was a talented scholar and an influential leader. A descendant of Ghingis Khan, he is best known for his intricate and elegant Buddhist sculptures created in the Nepali-derived style. The two most famous being the White Tara and Varajradhara, sculpted in the 1680s. Mongolia as the northern center of Buddhist culture, he promoted peace and enlightenment in an era of extreme political instability in Central Asia. Zanabazar revolutionized the outdated beliefs and ideologies of 17th-century Mongolian nomadic culture. For over two centuries after his death, Zanabazar’s work continued to inspire artists to create in the likeness of his masterpieces. His legacy lives on through the artists of the School of Zanabazar to this day. Interesting read.
    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this inspiring

  2. Samfoonheei on Apr 14, 2021 at 3:39 pm

    Interesting biography of a great Lama Zanabazar was a renowned painter, sculptor, architect and costume designer. He was known as“Michelangelo of Asia”, for his artistic skills which were matched by his literary prowess as a Buddhist scholar, linguist and poet. Zanabazar as a historical figure played an important role in propagating Buddhism in Mongolia. He had established Mongolian unique cultural identity. Zanabazar was the first Bogd Gegeen or high-saint-of-mongolia or supreme spiritual authority, the Gelugpa lineage of Tibetan Buddhism in Outer Mongolia. He is believed to be a Geluk protagonist whose alliance with the Dalai and Panchen Lamas was crucial to the dissemination of Buddhism in Khalkha Mongolia. Interesting read with all the rare pictures shared.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

  3. Ummamageswari on Jul 4, 2019 at 3:22 pm

    Thank you so much for this article. This article is mainly about Zanabazar, the first high saint of Mongolia. After reading this article, i get to know that Zanabazar was a renowned painter, sculptor, architect and costume designer where his artistic skills matched by his literary prowess as a Buddhist scholar, linguist and poet.

    This understanding between Altan Khan and Sonam Gyatso is an important precedent and the role of spiritual recognition in legitimizing the power of Mongolian aristocracy. Thank you.

  4. Pastor Shin Tan on May 17, 2019 at 9:47 am

    The great Protector Manjushri Dorje Shugden depicted in the beautiful Mongolian style. I hope many Mongolians will print out this image and place in their houses to create an affinity with Dorje Shugden for greater blessings. To download a high resolution file: https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz

    The powerful Mongolian nation has a long history and connection with Manjushri Dorje Shugden, as expressed in the life of Venerable Choijin Lama, a State Oracle of Mongolia who took trance of Dorje Shugden among other Dharma Protectors. Read more about Choijin Lama: https://bit.ly/2GCyOUZ

    Mongolian Dorje Shugden 2

  5. Wai Meng Wan on Apr 29, 2019 at 11:04 pm

    The Tara made by Zanabazar are truly amazing, and beautiful. When statues are made so beautifully, it acts an inspiration for practitioners.

  6. Pastor Lanse on Feb 16, 2019 at 1:26 pm

    以下是扎纳巴扎尔的一些中文简介,希望给大家对扎纳巴扎尔有个基本的印象:

    扎纳巴扎尔(Zanabazar)是第一世哲布尊丹巴呼图克图。哲布尊丹巴呼图克图是外蒙古藏传佛教最大的活佛世系,属格鲁派,于17世纪初形成,与内蒙古的章嘉呼图克图并列为蒙古两大活佛。是与达赖喇嘛、班禅额尔德尼、章嘉呼图克图齐名的藏传佛教的四大活佛之一。

    然而扎纳巴扎尔最广为人知的,却是他在佛教艺术上的贡献。他所创造的佛像深具个人特色,继而开创了蒙古佛教艺术的新纪元。他也因此被称为“亚洲的米开朗基罗”。扎那巴扎尔的佛教造像整体浇铸,再用金属钉组装固定在一起,人物比例精准、造型优美、面部清秀俊朗、气质典雅。他的白度母造像更被誉为史上最美的《白度母坐像》。

    扎纳巴扎尔的其他著名创作包括绿度母、弥勒佛、五方佛等。目前他的大部分作品都被收藏在蒙古的扎纳巴扎尔博物馆内。

  7. Wai Meng Wan on Feb 16, 2019 at 11:36 am

    I really enjoyed reading this article about Zanabazar, may the dharma reach its golden age once more under the auspices of the high lamas there. Zanabazar was also a very farsighted leader, and led his people to less bloodshed than if he had led using the sword. he used his wisdom and intelligence to help his people during a period of strife amongst Mongolians. The Khalka Mongols then were sandwiched between the newly formed Qing Empire and the Dzungzar Mongol a potent force in itself. Also the statues Zanabazar made were of the finest qualities and one feels very inspired just looking at them.

  8. Tsa Tsa Ong on Feb 14, 2019 at 1:51 pm

    Zanabazar was born to a prominent Khalkha Mongolian aristocratic family in present-day Yesönzüil, a province in Southern Mongolia. He was the second son of Tusheet Khan Gombodorj and Khandojamtso. Zanabazar was given the birth name Eshidorji. Widely regarded as the “Michelangelo of Asia”, Zanabazar was a renowned painter, sculptor, architect and costume designer.His artistic skills were matched by his literary prowess as a Buddhist scholar, linguist and poet.The 5th Dalai Lama recognised Zanabazar as the reincarnate leader of the Jonang school, Taranatha, who entered clear light one year before Zanabazar’s birth.

    Zanabazar returned to Outer Mongolia, accompanied by 600 artists, craftsmen and monks. It was a testament to his remarkable charisma that, at the age of sixteen, he was able to inspire so many people to leave behind everything they knew to follow him.Zanabazar built several mobile temples to adapt to the nomadic lifestyle of his followers. These temples contained religious sculptures, paintings and wall ornaments designed in beautiful Nepalese-Tibetan style. Some of the works were created by Zanabazar and his students while others had been brought from Tibet.Zanabazar is regarded as an artist extraordinaire and the face of the Mongolian Renaissance.

    His fame spread to other Buddhist countries during his lifetime and travelled even further in the centuries since. In addition to his skills in medicine, language and astronomy, he was a talented painter, musician and bronze and copper caster. Today, Zanabazar is considered a larger than life historical figure. Not only is he celebrated for his role in propagating Buddhism in Mongolia, but also for ushering the Mongols into a period of cultural renaissance and establishing their unique cultural identity. Thank you Rinpoche and blog team for this great and inspiring write up!????

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  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Mar 20. 2023 03:40 PM
    Very fortunate for me and friends to have visited these four most worthy pilgrimage sites as mentioned in this blog post. Lumbini where the birthplace of Prince Siddharta Gautama later known as Buddha Shakyamuni, Bodh Gaya the place where Prince Siddharta Gautama reached enlightenment, Sarnath the place where Buddha Shakyamuni turned the Wheel of Dharma for the first time and finally Kushinagar the place where Buddha Shakyamuni entered Parinirvana. So blessed managed to visit all these Holy places just before the lockdown because of the covid pandemic.
    Thank you Rinpoche and Novka Kuaranita for this interesting sharing, so as more people be inspired to go.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/8-holy-buddhist-pilgrimage-sites-part-1.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Mar 20. 2023 03:38 PM
    In the eyes of many people, giving doesn’t count unless it’s completely selfless. In reality, though, giving isn’t sustainable when it’s completely selfless. Tsem Rnpoche is one truly Lama who gives silently without hope of praise and reward. Rinpoche gives selflessly to awaken the sleeping humanity in one’s heart. Spreading love and caring everywhere as Rinpoche goes had inspired many of us. There is nothing more beautiful things we can do. If we ever had the chance of making a big impact on the life of someone else, we know how wonderful it can feel to help someone.
    A beautiful story of a selfless Lama who have a heart of gold.
    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 20. 2023 03:36 PM
    Rinpoche read all notes, letters, and cards that was sent to his labrang. It never comes to my mind at all whether or not our guru Tsem Rinpoche saw, ate, or liked our offerings. All I know that Rinpoche knew for sure what we are doing. I am one of the many that Rinpoche had gave me gifts through all these years. Feeling happy and blessed with what I received. Thank you Rinpoche with folded hands. May Rinpoche have a swift return.
    Thank you Anila for this wonderful sharing for many of us to have a better insight understanding of a great Lama.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/one-minute-story/rinpoche-through-my-eyes-no-offering-too-small
  • Alice
    Saturday, Mar 18. 2023 01:06 PM
    你时常都有选择的机会……那就做出正确的选择吧。就像马丁·路德·金所说的:“作正确的事永远都不会嫌迟。”

    当你发现很难去改变自己的恶习时,那就根据帕繃喀仁波切在《菩提道次第广论》里所描述的方式,长期持续地进行死亡禅思。那么你就能够感受到自身念头的转变。它始终会有转变的一天。目前,先专注于宗喀巴大师的修行,对祂生起信心,并时常供养祂……你将为自己累积足够的善因,来等待时机的成熟。

    ~ 詹杜固仁波切
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Mar 13. 2023 03:02 PM
    Reading this article reminds me of my trip there in 2019 just before the lock down. I am glad I made it there as encouraged by our Guru Tsem Rinpoche to go on pilgrimage to Holy places instead of visiting places of interest. It’s a once a life time experienced for me. Went on pilgrimage to Tibet in 2019 and to Sera Choding Hermitage of Lama Tsongkhapa and few other Holy places as well. Sera Choding Hermitage was also the founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. It was one of Tsongkhapa’s principal retreat centers, where he gave many of his most important teachings and where he composed one of his most famous works.
    Fortunate to go to Kushinagar where Buddha Shakyamuni entered Clear Light , and seeing the Ramabhar Stupa,where the cremation place of Buddha Shakyamuni, and a colossal statue of Lord Buddha at the Matha Kuar feeling blessed indeed. Another holy place as mentioned in the blog is Wu Tai Shan. It is a popular pilgrimage as well. Mount Wutai with its five flat peaks is one of the four sacred Buddhist mountains in China. This Holy place is associated with the rising sun which signifies birth and renewal. Due to this interpretation, it is often regarded as the most sacred of the Five Great Mountains. Went there too much earlier with Kecharians friends. Minhitale Buddha Statue in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, another Holy place. Historically recorded as the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Anuradhapura was also the center of Theravada Buddhism for many centuries and has been a major Buddhist pilgrimage site with ruins of many ancient Buddhist temples. A place worth going but I have not visited yet which I love to go some day.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this wonderful sharing.


    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/8-holy-buddhist-pilgrimage-sites-part-2.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Mar 13. 2023 02:57 PM
    A strong inspiring story that will touch our heart and soul. Reading and watching those videos in this blog post will definitely inspire and motivate us all. Bill Porter was an American having spent much of his life studying and translating Chinese religious and philosophical texts. He is a translator of Chinese texts, primarily Taoist and Buddhist, including poetry and sūtras. Bill Porter stepped into the ancient Chinese literary world, which changed everything. To many Chinese, he is known as Red Pine and the author of popular books on Chinese hermits and ancient poets. Many had wonder if the Buddhist hermit tradition still existed in China, not until Bill Porter discovered that the hermit tradition is very much alive. So many insights into life in China, and the Buddhist renewal after the cultural revolution the historical refuge of ancient hermits. Dozens of monks and nuns continue to lead solitary lives in quiet contemplation of their faith deep in the mountains. Inspiring each of them , living as simple as possible with what they have. That’s a beautiful understanding of Chinese culture, a rare happening , and should be cherished by all who love the Chinese classics .
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/inspiration-worthy-words/amongst-white-clouds-amazing.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Mar 13. 2023 02:55 PM
    Wow this great Lama the third Purchok incarnation the Lozang Tsultrim Jampa Gyatso who had served as tutor to both the Twelfth and the Thirteenth Dalai Lamas . He studied under a number of great masters and became a competent scholar at a very young age. His collected works covering subjects such as commentary on logics, rituals, and biography were compiled into texts. Interesting read.
    Thank you Rinpoche .

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/the-third-purchok-jampa-gyatso.html
  • Alice Tay
    Saturday, Mar 11. 2023 03:12 PM
    Dharma teaches us the ultimate method, the ultimate way of release from samsara. When you receive the Dharma teachings — when you receive the method and you practice it — you will be able to free yourself from sufferings.

    ~ H. E. Kyabje Tsem Rinpoche
  • Alice Tay
    Sunday, Feb 26. 2023 11:49 AM
    Stinginess is the ticket to a long stay in the sad and barren lands of poverty.

    Making happy offerings to enlightened and ordinary friends is a recipe for spontaneously arising generosity and the joys it causes.

    ~ H. E. Kyabje Tsem Rinpoche
  • Samfoonheei
    Thursday, Feb 23. 2023 04:04 PM
    Wow…beautiful scenery pictures . Each and every pictures has an interesting stories to tell. Looking through these in this blog tells us a thousands words , simply exquisite beautiful indeed. Tranquillity serenity and beauty of nature in every pictures .Natural beauty is everyone wish to be there.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this great sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/downloads/beautiful-scenes-free-download.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Thursday, Feb 23. 2023 04:02 PM
    The Colossus of Rhodes was a statue of the Greek sun-god Helios, erected in the city of Rhodes, on the Greek island. An interesting mythology behind this huge statue. It was built between the years 292-280 BCE, to honour the Ancient Greek god of the Sun, Helios recording to history. The people of the city of Rhodes in Greece were saved from a terrible siege and that’s where this statue was built. The Greek mythology was strongly influenced by the ancient Egyptian myths. Sound interesting. Rhodes has been famous since antiquity as the site of Colossus of Rhodes, and was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This ancient town is a step back in time and is one of the biggest best-preserved Medieval settlements of Europe. It’s the oldest populated medieval city in Europe with some 5000 people living inside the castle walls. Worth a visit to see for ourselves the beauty of this ancient town with many myth stories .
    Thank you Rinpoche and Gen. Lobsang Phuljung for this wonderful sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/one-minute-story/voyage-to-the-colossus-of-rhodes
  • Samfoonheei
    Thursday, Feb 23. 2023 04:01 PM
    Each of us have a dark story to tell from the past. Reading again this interesting short posts of personal experiences with HE the 25th Tsem Rinpoche by Gen. Lobsang Phuljung . Black magic spells for revenge are an advanced and destructive form of magic that can manipulate or hurt other people. Everybody has been in a scenario where vengeance appeared to be the perfect idea for resolving a conflict. Even if we employ these curses and spells for revenge we are the ones who gets hurt as well. Negatively impacts our physical health by raising our blood pressure, trigger defensiveness and it turns into a destructive force that can harm ourselves. Life can only be understood backwards but it must be lived forwards. May these life experience provide us the inspiration we need to go on in life while learning from it.
    Thank you Gen. Lobsang Phuljung for sharing this untold story with us.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/one-minute-story/stories-from-a-chela-hurt-revenge-and-black-magic
  • Alice Tay
    Tuesday, Feb 21. 2023 03:29 PM
    We should feel gratitude for all that was given to us. The highest giving would be dharma. From those who have given us dharma, we should show a humble and sincere attitude. Always remember their kindness by practicing and applying. Only with dharma can we find genuine lasting happiness. The person who gave us genuine happiness through teaching us dharma should be remembered, celebrated, respected and be shown gratitude always.

    ~ H.E. Kyabje Tsem Rinpoche
  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Feb 17. 2023 02:43 PM
    The Sangha has kept Buddhist texts safe over the centuries and has interpreted and taught Buddhist philosophy. The Sangha has also provided inspiration and guidance on how to live a good Buddhist life. Being one of the three jewels of Buddhism, Sangha is an integral part of this community. We turn to these three jewels when we need to feel safety .Sangha is an equally important part of Buddhism where they provides a harbour in time of distress, and at the time of distractions. They help each other to make the journey smooth and spread kindness to everyone around them. It is believed that while walking the path, they will helps everybody to visualize goals clearly and aids in understanding the meaning of life in a better way. Beautiful article by Thich Nhat Hanh explaining the essence of a sangha.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this wonderful sharing

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/the-practice-of-sangha.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Feb 17. 2023 02:41 PM
    Yunnan is a province in southern China, bordering Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam as well China is a multi-religious country. Taoism, Buddhism, Islamism, Protestantism and Catholicism are the main stream religions in China. Reading this article again and again feeling glad as the practice of Dorje Shugden had spread to many more places. Showing that it is not a minor practice after-all. Its flourishing to the ten direction. Dorje Shugden stupa is located right in the middle of the beautiful and sacred snow-capped mountains. Yulong Snow Mountain is a famous scenic area in Yunnan, after all. Since then it had attracted many locals and tourist .Looking at those pictures tells all. I have visited Yulong Snow Mountain but not been to see that new monastery where the sacred stupa is built. Hopefully I could visit someday.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/travel/two-holy-places-in-yunnan-china.html

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

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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
3 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!
3 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
3 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
3 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!
3 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.
3 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
3 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.
3 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.
3 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!
3 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)
4 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)
4 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)
4 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
4 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
4 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!
4 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
4 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
4 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
4 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
4 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
4 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
4 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
4 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
4 years ago
Sacred Vajra Yogini
Dorje Shugden works & archives - a labour of commitment - https://bit.ly/30Tp2p8
4 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.
4 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.
4 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.
4 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
4 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
4 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!!!
4 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
4 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
4 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
4 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
4 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
4 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
4 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
4 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
4 years ago
Beautiful pictures of the huge Buddha in Longkou Nanshan- https://bit.ly/2LsBxVb
The reason-Very interesting thought- https://bit.ly/2V7VT5r
4 years ago
The reason-Very interesting thought- https://bit.ly/2V7VT5r
NEW Bigfoot cafe in Malaysia! Food is delicious!- https://bit.ly/2VxdGau
4 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
4 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
4 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
4 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
4 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
4 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
4 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
4 years ago
Manjusri Kumara (bodhisattva of wisdom), India, Pala dynesty, 9th century, stone, Honolulu Academy of Arts
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3 days ago
Invoice
Gyenze is an emanation of Manjushri, propitiation of Gyenze will result in an increase of spiritual merits. Mantra: OM BENZA WIKI BITANA SOHA TSESO PALJOR LONG CHO THAMCHED PUTRIM KURU OM ~ Alice
7 days ago
Gyenze is an emanation of Manjushri, propitiation of Gyenze will result in an increase of spiritual merits. Mantra: OM BENZA WIKI BITANA SOHA TSESO PALJOR LONG CHO THAMCHED PUTRIM KURU OM ~ Alice
Nice sessions to learn about (4 March 2023):  The art of HAPPINESS  And  Essentials for a HAPPY relationship shared by Gen Lobsang Phuljung. ~ Alice
2 weeks ago
Nice sessions to learn about (4 March 2023): The art of HAPPINESS And Essentials for a HAPPY relationship shared by Gen Lobsang Phuljung. ~ Alice
Nice sessions to learn about (4 March 2023):  The art of HAPPINESS  And  Essentials for a HAPPY relationship shared by Gen Lobsang Phuljung. ~ Alice
2 weeks ago
Nice sessions to learn about (4 March 2023): The art of HAPPINESS And Essentials for a HAPPY relationship shared by Gen Lobsang Phuljung. ~ Alice
Nice sessions to learn about (4 March 2023):  The art of HAPPINESS  And  Essentials for a HAPPY relationship shared by Gen Lobsang Phuljung. ~ Alice
2 weeks ago
Nice sessions to learn about (4 March 2023): The art of HAPPINESS And Essentials for a HAPPY relationship shared by Gen Lobsang Phuljung. ~ Alice
Nice sessions to learn about (4 March 2023):  The art of HAPPINESS  And  Essentials for a HAPPY relationship shared by Gen Lobsang Phuljung. ~ Alice
2 weeks ago
Nice sessions to learn about (4 March 2023): The art of HAPPINESS And Essentials for a HAPPY relationship shared by Gen Lobsang Phuljung. ~ Alice
Nice sessions to learn about (4 March 2023):  The art of HAPPINESS  And  Essentials for a HAPPY relationship shared by Gen Lobsang Phuljung. ~ Alice
2 weeks ago
Nice sessions to learn about (4 March 2023): The art of HAPPINESS And Essentials for a HAPPY relationship shared by Gen Lobsang Phuljung. ~ Alice
Nice sessions to learn about (4 March 2023):  The art of HAPPINESS  And  Essentials for a HAPPY relationship shared by Gen Lobsang Phuljung. ~ Alice
2 weeks ago
Nice sessions to learn about (4 March 2023): The art of HAPPINESS And Essentials for a HAPPY relationship shared by Gen Lobsang Phuljung. ~ Alice
Beautiful Manjushri and 108 Dorje Shugden. More thangkas for FREE download: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=171377 ~ Alice
2 weeks ago
Beautiful Manjushri and 108 Dorje Shugden. More thangkas for FREE download: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=171377 ~ Alice
Slowly, but surely we will be able to collect tremendous and incredible amount of merits during Dorje Shugden puja for our spiritual advancement. In return, we dedicated merits to those sponsors and every sentient beings. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 weeks ago
Slowly, but surely we will be able to collect tremendous and incredible amount of merits during Dorje Shugden puja for our spiritual advancement. In return, we dedicated merits to those sponsors and every sentient beings. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
We included the long mandala offerings during our puja. Very nice seeing them practicing in accordance to Rinpoche's teaching. Kechara Penang Study Group By Jacinta
3 weeks ago
We included the long mandala offerings during our puja. Very nice seeing them practicing in accordance to Rinpoche's teaching. Kechara Penang Study Group By Jacinta
Completed our weekly Dorje Shugden puja. Every Saturday @3pm at Jalan Seang Tek. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
3 weeks ago
Completed our weekly Dorje Shugden puja. Every Saturday @3pm at Jalan Seang Tek. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
That's us! The retreat ended successfully and you can definitely see it from our ' smile'. Kechara Penang Study Group retreat, 18th & 19th Feb 2023 by Jacinta
4 weeks ago
That's us! The retreat ended successfully and you can definitely see it from our ' smile'. Kechara Penang Study Group retreat, 18th & 19th Feb 2023 by Jacinta
This time, we included mandala offerings as part of our reatreat. Pastor Seng Piow guided us and shared with us the tips and tricks on how we can offer mandala immaculately! ~ by Jacinta
4 weeks ago
This time, we included mandala offerings as part of our reatreat. Pastor Seng Piow guided us and shared with us the tips and tricks on how we can offer mandala immaculately! ~ by Jacinta
Before retreat, all of us invited Divine Lady, Vajrayogini whom out of compassion she attracts us and brings us to full liberation. For auspicious reason, together with Pastor Seng Piow, we did Kalarupa puja before starting our retreat ~by Jacinta
4 weeks ago
Before retreat, all of us invited Divine Lady, Vajrayogini whom out of compassion she attracts us and brings us to full liberation. For auspicious reason, together with Pastor Seng Piow, we did Kalarupa puja before starting our retreat ~by Jacinta
#Throwback Kechara Penang Study Group retreat @ 18th - 19th Feb 2023. 11 retreatants, led by Pastor Seng Piow. We were so fortunate able to get together for the retreat and with great blessings from Rinpoche, it went smoothly. Special thanks to Choong Soon Heng for the overall arrangements, Tang KS, Ong Siew Hong and Swee Bee helping out ~ by Jacinta.
4 weeks ago
#Throwback Kechara Penang Study Group retreat @ 18th - 19th Feb 2023. 11 retreatants, led by Pastor Seng Piow. We were so fortunate able to get together for the retreat and with great blessings from Rinpoche, it went smoothly. Special thanks to Choong Soon Heng for the overall arrangements, Tang KS, Ong Siew Hong and Swee Bee helping out ~ by Jacinta.
2023 first pilgrimage in Kechara Forest Retreat. ~ Alice
4 weeks ago
2023 first pilgrimage in Kechara Forest Retreat. ~ Alice
2023 first pilgrimage in Kechara Forest Retreat. ~ Alice
4 weeks ago
2023 first pilgrimage in Kechara Forest Retreat. ~ Alice
2023 first pilgrimage in Kechara Forest Retreat. ~ Alice
4 weeks ago
2023 first pilgrimage in Kechara Forest Retreat. ~ Alice
2023 first pilgrimage in Kechara Forest Retreat. ~ Alice
4 weeks ago
2023 first pilgrimage in Kechara Forest Retreat. ~ Alice
2023 first pilgrimage in Kechara Forest Retreat. ~ Alice
4 weeks ago
2023 first pilgrimage in Kechara Forest Retreat. ~ Alice
2023 first pilgrimage in Kechara Forest Retreat. ~ Alice
4 weeks ago
2023 first pilgrimage in Kechara Forest Retreat. ~ Alice
2023 first pilgrimage in Kechara Forest Retreat. ~ Alice
4 weeks ago
2023 first pilgrimage in Kechara Forest Retreat. ~ Alice
19JV E5Q9
4 weeks ago
19JV E5Q9
Abundance light offerings to Gyenze. Happy Losar Day. ~ Alice
1 month ago
Abundance light offerings to Gyenze. Happy Losar Day. ~ Alice
Website
1 month ago
Website
Beautiful night scene at Vajrayogini Stupa, Kechara Forest Retreat. ~ Alice
1 month ago
Beautiful night scene at Vajrayogini Stupa, Kechara Forest Retreat. ~ Alice
11th Feb 2023 @ 3.00 pm. Completed weekly Dorje Shugden puja at Kechara Penang Chapel, No49 Jalan Seang Tek. All are welcome to join. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
1 month ago
11th Feb 2023 @ 3.00 pm. Completed weekly Dorje Shugden puja at Kechara Penang Chapel, No49 Jalan Seang Tek. All are welcome to join. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Flower garland was offered to Dorje Shugden, as well as some mandarin oranges, milk and etc by the devotees. There next day morning shift (5th Feb 2023) members were Tang KS, Sunny, Choong & Wei Ling. Thanks for all the efforts and support. The event was ended in a high note. Kechara Penang Study Group ~by Jacinta
1 month ago
Flower garland was offered to Dorje Shugden, as well as some mandarin oranges, milk and etc by the devotees. There next day morning shift (5th Feb 2023) members were Tang KS, Sunny, Choong & Wei Ling. Thanks for all the efforts and support. The event was ended in a high note. Kechara Penang Study Group ~by Jacinta
Penang Kecharians distributed well over 5144 Dorje Shugden collaterals, which includes big posters, A5 picture card, brochure pendants and etc. Not only that, visitors who were keen, they explained and shared more about Dorje Shugden in details. Sharyn and Swee Bee came and volunteered for the two days we were there. Way to go gals... ~by Jacinta
1 month ago
Penang Kecharians distributed well over 5144 Dorje Shugden collaterals, which includes big posters, A5 picture card, brochure pendants and etc. Not only that, visitors who were keen, they explained and shared more about Dorje Shugden in details. Sharyn and Swee Bee came and volunteered for the two days we were there. Way to go gals... ~by Jacinta
Kechara Penang members lent a helping hand during Thaipusam even at the famous Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Waterfall Temple. On the first day, 4th Feb 2023, the members on duty were Siew Hong, BJ Quah, Jacinta, Huey and Sunny Ooi. Kechara Penang Study Group ~by Jacinta
1 month ago
Kechara Penang members lent a helping hand during Thaipusam even at the famous Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Waterfall Temple. On the first day, 4th Feb 2023, the members on duty were Siew Hong, BJ Quah, Jacinta, Huey and Sunny Ooi. Kechara Penang Study Group ~by Jacinta
Abundance food offerings to Gyenze. May everyone always be blessed by Gyenze for long life and increase our inner and outer wealth. ~ Alice
2 months ago
Abundance food offerings to Gyenze. May everyone always be blessed by Gyenze for long life and increase our inner and outer wealth. ~ Alice
Pastor David is here! Members of Kechara Penang group were listening attentively to Pastor's sharing about his latest book 'Insightful Meditation'. 28th Jan 2023, Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 months ago
Pastor David is here! Members of Kechara Penang group were listening attentively to Pastor's sharing about his latest book 'Insightful Meditation'. 28th Jan 2023, Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Tannery for cow and pig leather
2 months ago
Tannery for cow and pig leather
Penang Dharma bro and sis Lou Hei, a vegetarian Yee Sang ( a prosperity toss) complete with auspicious phrases such as wishing for more Kechara members, more retreats and of course, swift return of Rinpoche to KFR. Huat Ah!!! Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Penang Dharma bro and sis Lou Hei, a vegetarian Yee Sang ( a prosperity toss) complete with auspicious phrases such as wishing for more Kechara members, more retreats and of course, swift return of Rinpoche to KFR. Huat Ah!!! Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
恭喜,恭喜,恭喜发财啊!(Gong Xi, Gong Xi, Gong Xi Fa Cai) from us all, Kechara Penang Study Group. 21/1/2023 Saturday CNY eve DS puja by Jacinta
2 months ago
恭喜,恭喜,恭喜发财啊!(Gong Xi, Gong Xi, Gong Xi Fa Cai) from us all, Kechara Penang Study Group. 21/1/2023 Saturday CNY eve DS puja by Jacinta
All ready for Lunar New Year 2023 Dorje Shugden puja ~ inviting Ong, Huat & Heng, blessing our beloved ones and all sentient beings. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta. 21/1/2023 Saturday
2 months ago
All ready for Lunar New Year 2023 Dorje Shugden puja ~ inviting Ong, Huat & Heng, blessing our beloved ones and all sentient beings. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta. 21/1/2023 Saturday
After year end puja, we proceeded with a small gathering. The food was outstanding, especially the vege curry and sa hor fun! We were even enchanted by the smells of it. We also had apple pie, tong sui and many more. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
After year end puja, we proceeded with a small gathering. The food was outstanding, especially the vege curry and sa hor fun! We were even enchanted by the smells of it. We also had apple pie, tong sui and many more. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Last puja for the Year 2022 and ushering a New and Blessed Year 2023. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta 31/12/2022
2 months ago
Last puja for the Year 2022 and ushering a New and Blessed Year 2023. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta 31/12/2022
Ta-da! Can you spot the differences? Come and collect more merits while cleaning & polishing at the temple. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
4 months ago
Ta-da! Can you spot the differences? Come and collect more merits while cleaning & polishing at the temple. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
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Dorje Shugden
Click to watch my talk about Dorje Shugden....