D.T. Suzuki: Introducing Zen Buddhism to the West

Feb 14, 2018 | Views: 7,675

(By Tsem Rinpoche)

Daisetsu Teitaro Suzuki

Daisetsu Teitaro Suzuki

Professor Daisetsu Teitaro Suzuki (18 October 1870 – 22 July 1966) was a prolific Japanese writer known for his translations of important Zen (Chan) and Shin (Jodo Shinshu or ‘Pure Land’) Buddhist texts. His work was instrumental in igniting widespread interest in Buddhism in the West, and was a significant catalyst in the worldwide revival of Buddhism in the late 19th Century.

Suzuki was very successful in explaining the concepts of Zen Buddhism to Westerners who had very little to no knowledge of the religion. His success was due to his ability to present Zen Buddhist concepts as profound religious thought.

He demonstrated the extraordinary ability to understand the complex yet fundamental concepts of Zen and Shin Buddhism from a young age. However, he is remembered more for his skill with language, theme and nuance — gifts which allowed him to effectively explain Buddhist philosophy to a Western audience.

During his lifetime, Suzuki published more than 100 books including works that he had translated himself. These translations mainly concern the relationship of Zen Buddhism to everyday life, although he also wrote about other aspects and forms of Buddhism as well, such as the workings of the mind. Suzuki was proficient in Chinese, English, Pali, Sanskrit and several European languages.

The value of Professor Suzuki’s efforts in kindling Western (and worldwide) interest in Buddhism is immeasurable. It is my hope that by telling his story, I will inspire a new generation of people to pursue their own spiritual journey.

 

Early Life

Professor D.T. Suzuki was born Teitaro Suzuki to a Samurai family on October 18, 1870, in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan. He was the fourth son of Ryojun Suzuki, a physician. Today, a humble monument — a tree with a rock placed underneath — marks the place where he was born.

Kanazawa, where Suzuki was born

Kanazawa, where Professor D.T. Suzuki was born

At the time of his birth, Japanese feudalism was in decline. The corresponding loss of prestige and privilege of the samurai class to which his family belonged meant that he was raised in relative poverty. The Suzuki family experienced further misfortune when Ryojun Suzuki passed away in 1876. His mother raised him in these difficult circumstances, even renting part of their house to boarders. Suzuki attended a local high school and befriended Kitaro Nishida who would later become a significant thinker of Western philosophy and Zen.

His humble upbringing coupled with his mother’s Jodo Shinshu Buddhist faith sparked Suzuki’s interest in spirituality and religion. He first received Zen spiritual training in Kokutai-ji under the guidance of a Zen master, Setsumon Roshi, while still in high school.

When he was only 18 years old, D.T. Suzuki began working as a tutor of mathematics, writing, reading and English in a fishing village.

Kokutai-Ji

Kokutai-Ji

 

Secular and Spiritual Education

The younger Suzuki during his student days

A young D.T. Suzuki during his student days

When Professor D.T. Suzuki was 21 years old, his older brother, an established lawyer, sponsored his education at Tokyo Senmon Gakko, the present-day Waseda University in Tokyo. Initially, he continued his spiritual training under the guidance of Imakita Kosen, a Rinzai master.

However, both his mother and his teacher passed away within a short span of time in 1892. Following their deaths, he accepted the suggestion of his childhood friend, Kitaro Nishida, to study Western philosophy, the Chinese language, Pali, Sanskrit and European languages at Tokyo University.

While at Tokyo University, D.T. Suzuki continued his Zen training under the guidance of Kosen Roshi at Engaku-ji Temple in Kamakura. After Kosen Roshi’s passing, he then went under the guidance of his teacher’s main student, Soyen Shaku.

Soyen Shaku

Soyen Shaku

Soyen Shaku was a promising Zen master, naturally gifted and inclined towards Dharma. He began receiving instruction from Kosen Roshi when he was just 22 years old. At the age of 25, Soyen Shaku went to Ceylon (present-day Sri Lanka) to further his knowledge of Buddhism, focusing mainly on Theravada Buddhism and the Pali language, and to live the life of a Theravadan monk for three years. It was Soyen Shaku who gave Suzuki the name ‘Daisetsu‘, which means “Great Humility”, but when written in Kanji can also mean “Great Stupidity”, “Great Clumsy,” or “Great Simplicity.”

Soyen Shaku recognised the spiritual potential within Suzuki, and trained him in strict discipline. Suzuki was advised to live like a simple monk in the temple although he was never ordained. In addition, he was advised to engage in sitting meditation (zazen) for long periods of time.

Suzuki later described his life in Engaku-ji Monastery in his book, The Training of the Zen Buddhist Monk as:

“… a life of humility; a life of labour; a life of service; a life of prayer and gratitude; and a life of meditation.”

D.T. Suzuki was a product of New Buddhism which flourished in Japan after the Meiji era. During the Meiji Restoration, the traditions of Zen Buddhism had been altered. For instance, in the past, Zen monks were required to spend several years in intensive study, including reading commentaries and memorising sutras. New Buddhism afforded Suzuki the opportunity to undergo his Zen training as a lay person.

When D.T. Suzuki was 21 years old, he studied at the present-day Waseda University in Tokyo

At the age of 21, D.T. Suzuki commenced his studies at present-day Waseda University in Tokyo

Tokyo University, where Suzuki studied Western philosophy, Chinese language, Pali, Sanskrit and European languages

Tokyo University where Suzuki studied Western philosophy, the Chinese language, Pali, Sanskrit and European languages

 

Career in the Open Court Publishing Company

Dr. Paul Carus

Dr. Paul Carus

In the 1890s, an unexpected opportunity to work abroad presented itself to Professor D.T. Suzuki. Soyen Shaku had met Dr. Paul Carus, a German-American philosopher and the managing editor of Open Court Publishing Company, at the 1893 World Parliament of Religions in Chicago. Dr. Carus approached Shaku for assistance in preparing Eastern spiritual literature for publication. The work included translations from various Asian languages to English and Shaku recommended Suzuki for the task.

Suzuki moved to America to work in Open Court’s translation department, and stayed with Dr. Carus at the Hegeler Carus Mansion in Illinois. His first assignment was to translate the classic Tao Te Ching from ancient Chinese. Many years later, Suzuki revealed that he was unhappy with the product of his first official translation project because he felt that it failed to capture the true depth of meaning of complex Chinese ideas.

Next, Suzuki started working on the translation of Ashvaghosha’s The Awakening of Faith in the Mahayana (1901) and simultaneously worked on his first book, Outlines of Mahayana Buddhism (1907).

In addition to his work in Open Court’s translation department, Suzuki was also involved in typing, proofreading and photography. In 1906, he translated a book authored by Soyen Shaku titled The Mahayana Buddhist Outlook on Zen Buddhism, a project that marked the beginning of his career as an English language writer. However, Suzuki’s own view was that Zen was heavily influenced by Chinese Taoism.

 

Swedenborg Influence

Suzuki also wrote a book titled Swedenborg: Buddha of the North

Suzuki also wrote a book titled “Swedenborg: Buddha of the North

In the 1890s, Professor D.T. Suzuki collaborated with Albert Edmund on a translation project at Open Court. A British Swedenborgian, Albert Edmund gave Suzuki a copy of one of Swedenborg’s books, Heaven and Hell, translated to English from its original Latin.

After the publication of his first book, Outlines of Mahayana Buddhism, Suzuki left his post at Open Court and went to London to further his study of Emanuel Swedenborg’s philosophy. He was referred to the British Swedenborg Society by Albert Edmund.

In 1908, Suzuki translated Swedenborg’s English edition of Heaven and Hell into Japanese, while taking the content of the French and German editions into consideration. After the completion of this project, Suzuki continued to translate several of Swedenborg’s books such as Divine Love and Wisdom and The New Jerusalem and its Heavenly Doctrines into Japanese.

 

Marriage and Return to Japan

In 1906, Professor D.T. Suzuki met his future wife, Beatrice Erskine Lane, at a lecture given by Soyen Shaku. Beatrice was a Theosophist and a graduate of Radcliffe College. She introduced Suzuki to Theosophism, and he became an active Theosophist and eventually joined the Theosophical Society – Adyar. She was also intimately associated with the Baha’i movement in both America and Japan.

Suzuki and his wife, Beatrice Erskine Lane

Professor D.T. Suzuki and his wife, Beatrice Erskine Lane

Beatrice and Suzuki married five years later and decided to move to Japan. The couple were committed to spreading the understanding of Mahayana Buddhism and lived in a cottage on the Engaku-ji Temple grounds until 1919. During this time, Suzuki taught at the Peer’s School in Tokyo.

In 1921, they moved to Kyoto where Suzuki accepted the post of Professor of Buddhist Philosophy at Otani University. He became renowned for his expertise in Zen history and practice, and Kegon philosophy, which he considered the tool of intellectual analysis for the practice of Zen.

An older photo of Otani University

An older photo of Otani University

In Kyoto, Suzuki and Beatrice established the Eastern Buddhist Society to spread the Mahayana Buddhist doctrine. The Society offered seminars, lectures, and had their own educational journal, The Eastern Buddhist. Living in Kyoto also gave Suzuki the opportunity to discuss Zen Buddhism with the renowned Zen Buddhist scholar, Dr. Hoseki Shinichi Hisamatsu at Shunkoin Temple in the Myoshinji Temple complex.

The couple spent most of their time in Japan until 1936 when Suzuki served as an exchange professor at the University of London. Around this time, he also participated in the World Congress of Faiths. As his popularity as a writer grew, Suzuki returned to America and in 1951, he embarked on a teaching tour at universities throughout the country. From 1952 to 1957, Suzuki held a steady teaching position at Columbia University.

During this period in the United States, he became acquainted with the works of those from the California Academy of Asian Studies (now known as the California Institute of Integral Studies) such as Judith Tyberg, Saburo Hasegawa and Alan Watts.

 

The Eastern Buddhist Society

Suzuki, Beatrice and several other like-minded people such as Sasaki Gessho and Akanuma Chizen established the Eastern Buddhist Society (EBS) in Kyoto in 1921. The main objective of EBS was to “convey the true spirit of Buddhism to the modern world” through its many projects and activities such as:

  • Research and translations of Buddhist texts
  • Publication of an English language journal, titled The Eastern Buddhist
  • Lectures, seminars and group discussions

The Eastern Buddhist contained articles on various aspects of Buddhism, writings by modern Buddhist thinkers, and classical Buddhist texts in the English language. The first edition of this journal was published in 1921. Publication halted during World War II and resumed once again in 1965. After the passing of Professor D.T. Suzuki, Nichitani Keiji, Abe Masao, Nagao Gadjin and other eminent Buddhist scholars served as the editors of this unique journal.

 

Writing Work and International Acclaim

Essays in Zen Buddhism

Essays in Zen Buddhism

In the early 1920s, there was a concern that the Zen masters of the time could not present the fundamental concepts of Zen if they packaged it in a modern light. Undeterred, Professor D.T. Suzuki took the initiative to “under[take] a tentative experiment to present Zen from [the] common-sense point of view.”

In 1927, Suzuki published Essays in Zen Buddhism which contained a collection of fundamental texts to introduce the principles of Zen Buddhism and their application in secular life.

He began the essay by describing the promise of Zen in our everyday lives:

“Zen in its essence is the art of seeing into the nature of one’s own being, and it points the I from bondage to freedom. By making us drink right from the fountain of life, it liberates us from all the yokes under which we finite beings are usually suffering in this world.”

https://www.brainpickings.org/2015/01/30/d-t-suzuki-essays-in-zen-buddhism/

Suzuki placed particular emphasis on the reconstruction of our character. He wrote, “Our ordinary life only touches the fringe of personality, it does not cause a commotion in the deepest parts of the soul.Essays in Zen Buddhism became a classic and is often used as a moral guideline to modern living even today.

Lankavatara Sutra

Lankavatara Sutra

Following the publication of Essays in Zen Buddhism, Suzuki published more articles and books that targeted the English-speaking audience and he gained widespread popularity in the United States and Europe as a prominent scholar of Japanese culture and Zen. In the mid-20th Century, he wrote several more books that contained some of the most celebrated introductions and examinations of Zen Buddhism.

Suzuki was interested in the development of Buddhism in China, particularly through the examination of Chinese texts that contained the teaching style and words of classical Chinese masters such as Wumenguan (Gateless Passage) and Biyan Lu (Blue Cliff Record). He was also interested in how Zen influenced Japanese history and culture, and later wrote a book titled Zen and Japanese Culture. In addition, he translated the Lankavatara Sutra and wrote a commentary on its Sanskrit terminology.

Carl Jung and An Introduction to Zen Buddhism

Carl Jung and An Introduction to Zen Buddhism

Suzuki’s books are widely read in the West and many important personalities have commented on them and on the author himself. For instance, the famous psychoanalyst Carl Jung wrote a 30-page commentary to Suzuki’s An Introduction to Zen Buddhism:

“Suzuki’s works on Zen Buddhism are among the best contributions to the knowledge of living Buddhism. We cannot be sufficiently grateful to the author, first for the fact of his having brought Zen closer to Western understanding, and secondly for the manner in which he has achieved this task.”

Carl Jung on Suzuki, An Introduction to Zen Buddhism

In addition, William C. Barret (1913-1992), a Professor of Philosophy at New York University, compiled Suzuki’s articles and essays about Zen into a book titled Studies of Zen.

In his later years, Suzuki developed an interest in Jodo Shinshu (Pure Land Buddhism), the faith of his mother, to the extent that he translated its related texts and gave lectures on the subject at the Buddhist Churches of America. In his book on Jodo Shinshu titled Buddha of Infinite Light, Suzuki stated that:

“Of all the developments that Mahayana Buddhism has achieved in East Asia, the most remarkable one is the Shin teaching of Pure Land Buddhism.”

D.T. Suzuki, Buddha of Infinite Light: The Teachings of Shin Buddhism, the Japanese Way of Wisdom and Compassion

Although Suzuki was of the view that Jodo Shinshu Buddhism was Mahayana Buddhism’s most remarkable development in East Asia, he did not attempt to promote this branch of the faith in the West and continued with his efforts to propagate Zen.

In addition to the Zen and Jodo Shinshu faiths, Suzuki was interested in Christian mysticism. He compared the Christian mystic, Meister Eckhart to a Jodo Shinshu follower from the Tokugawa period, Myokonin.

Mahayana Buddhism

Mahayana Buddhism

In the 1940s, access to Suzuki’s books became scarce. All the copies in Japan were lost in the great fire that destroyed a quarter of Tokyo. Moreover, the copies in England had gone out of print.

Determined to salvage the situation, Christmas Humphreys, the President of London’s Buddhist Society, travelled to Tokyo in 1946. Humphreys worked with Suzuki to translate new texts and to reprint what remained of Suzuki’s previous works. This collaboration resulted in another compilation of essays titled Essays in Zen Buddhism.

In addition, Christmas Humphreys wrote a foreword to Beatrice’s book titled Mahayana Buddhism.

Alan Watts, D.T. Suzuki, and Christmas Humphreys in London, 1958

Alan Watts, D.T. Suzuki, and Christmas Humphreys in London, 1958

 

Professor D.T. Suzuki and New Buddhism

In 1868, Japan opened her doors to the international community during the Meiji Restoration. However, this modernisation caused some backlash against Buddhism, which was labelled by the government as “a corrupt, decadent, anti-social, parasitic, and superstitious creed, inimical to Japan’s need for scientific and technological advancement.”

The Meiji Government wanted to eradicate Buddhist customs that were considered “incapable of fostering the nativist sentiments that would be vital for national, ideological cohesion.” To make things worse, the newly-introduced industrialisation efforts had had a negative impact on the traditional patrons of Buddhist monasteries.

However, a new generation of Buddhist leaders emerged to salvage the situation. These leaders agreed that the old Buddhist traditions needed to be revitalised to better fit the needs of the emergent modern Japan. As a result, New Buddhism (Shin Bukkyo) was established.

The New Buddhism movement was initiated by a group of intellectuals that included Professor D.T. Suzuki’s teachers, Imakita Kosen and Soyen Shaku, who had been exposed to the Western way of thinking. This modern generation of Buddhist leaders saw New Buddhism as a way of preserving Buddhism from persecution and, at the same time, contributing to Japan’s cultural force.

SU21

The idea of New Buddhism was in line with Suzuki’s idea that “…religions are each a sort of organism, an organism that is [through time] subject to ‘irritation’ and therefore shows the capacity to change or evolve.”

Later Buddhist scholars such as Martin Verhoeven and Robert Sharf argued that the Japanese Zen Buddhism promoted by Soyen Shaku and Imakita Kosen was different from pre-Meiji era Zen Buddhism. This is the de-traditionalised and essentialised Zen Buddhism that Suzuki effectively promoted in the West.

In his later years, Suzuki’s role evolved from that of a reporter to that of a contributor who enriched the school of Zen Buddhism. The Japanese philosopher of the Kyoto School, Nishitani Keiji echoed this belief:

… in Dr. Suzuki’s activities, Buddhism came to possess a forward-moving direction with a frontier spirit … This involved shouldering the task of rethinking, restating and redoing traditional Buddhism to transmit it to Westerners as well as Easterners.

… To accomplish this task it is necessary to be deeply engrossed in the tradition, and at the same time to grasp the longing and the way of thinking within the hearts of Westerners. From there, new possibilities should open up in the study of the Buddha Dharma which have yet to be found in Buddhist history … Up to now this new Buddhist path has been blazed almost single-handedly by Dr. Suzuki. He did it on behalf of the whole Buddhist world.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D._T._Suzuki

According to Richard M. Jaffe, the Chair of the Department of Religion at Duke University, Suzuki was “one of the most culturally influential Asians of the 20th century.”

 

Professor D.T. Suzuki and Japanese Nationalism

Professor D.T. Suzuki has been criticised for his pre-World War II support of Japanese nationalism and of the Japanese war effort. Suzuki had supported the Nihonjinron philosophy, which emphasised the unique characteristics of Japanese culture. He attributed it to the concept of Zen because it contained the essence of all religion and philosophy. Suzuki presented Zen as an expression of Asian spirituality, superior to the Western way of thinking.

SU15b

Robert Sharf, Professor of Buddhist Studies at the University of California, Berkeley has argued that Suzuki’s claim that Zen embodies the essence of all religion and philosophy to be an expression of his nationalism and less-than-noble intentions:

“The Nihonjinron cultural exceptionalism polemic in Suzuki’s work – the grotesque caricatures of ‘East’ versus ‘West’ – is no doubt the most egregiously inane manifestation of his nationalist leanings. … One is led to suspect that Suzuki’s lifelong effort to bring Buddhist enlightenment to the Occident had become inextricably bound to a studied contempt for the West.”

Kubota, Hiroshi and Nawrocki, Johann, Religion and National Identity in the Japanese Context

However, another scholar, Kemmyo Taira Sato, the former director of The Buddhist Society, does not agree with this critical assessment of Suzuki:

“In cases where Suzuki directly expresses his position on the contemporary political situation — whether in his articles, public talks, or letters to friends (in which he would have had no reason to misrepresent his views) — he is clear and explicit in his distrust of, and opposition to, State Shinto, right-wing thought, and the other forces that were pushing Japan toward militarism and war, even as he expressed interest in decidedly non-rightist ideologies like socialism.

In this Suzuki’s standpoint was consistent from the late nineteenth century through to the post-war years. These materials reveal in Suzuki an intellectual independence, a healthy scepticism of political ideology and government propaganda, and a sound appreciation for human rights.

Sato, Kemmyō Taira, D. T. Suzuki and the Question of War

 

Later Life, and Death

SU015a

In the 1950s, Professor D.T. Suzuki returned to the United States and spent the next decade delivering talks and lectures in prominent universities such as Harvard, Columbia and the University of New Mexico. He was also elected as President of the Cambridge Buddhist Association. In 1956, the Zen Studies Society in New York was established for the purpose of supporting his work.

When he was 90 years old, Suzuki went on a four-week tour to India as an official State Guest. When he was 94 years old, Suzuki returned to New York, where he was later introduced to a Catholic monk, Thomas Merton, with whom he began a dialogue on Christianity via letters. Suzuki also attended the East-West Philosopher’s Conference in Honolulu.

 

Legacy

The final resting place of D.T. Suzuki

The final resting place of Professor D.T. Suzuki

During his lifetime, Professor D.T. Suzuki received many honours including Japan’s National Cultural Medal in recognition of his achievements as a distinguished Zen scholar who promoted Japan and introduced Zen Buddhism to the world. He published over 100 books in both English and Japanese that include studies of Pure Land and Zen Buddhism, various Buddhist classics, and works by the ancient Chinese philosopher, Lao Tzu.

Suzuki was not only popular among his contemporaries, but also inspired a younger generation of writers such as Alan Watts, who spent his life studying and propagating Suzuki’s teachings, and musicians like John Cage.

 

The D.T. Suzuki Museum

In 2011, the D.T. Suzuki Museum was established in Suzuki’s hometown, Kanazawa. It celebrates Suzuki’s life and achievements through his writings, and is an invaluable repository of information about this prolific author-translator’s philosophies.

D.T. Suzuki Museum in Kanazawa

The D.T. Suzuki Museum in Kanazawa

The clean, serene, and simple architecture of the museum serves as a reflection of Suzuki’s religious scholarship and lifestyle. It was designed by the famed architect Taniguchi Yoshio, whose portfolio includes the Heisei Chishinkan wing of the Kyoto National Museum, the Toyokan wing of the Tokyo National Museum, and the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

A sense of tranquility can be felt throughout the museum complex. The three buildings in the museum are connected by corridors built around the Water Mirror Garden pond. The complex also has a contemplative space, which consists of a large room that extends all the way to the Water Mirror Garden. In addition, it contains a learning space at one end that houses both English and Japanese books written by Suzuki.

Contemplative Space at D.T. Suzuki Museum

The contemplative space at the D.T. Suzuki Museum

Inside the Contemplative Space at D.T. Suzuki Museum

Inside the contemplative space

 

Getting There

Visitors can take Kanazawa’s Loop Bus and get off at stop number LL7 or RL10. The museum is also just a 10-minute walk from the nearby 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.

Kanazawa Loop Buses Route

The route of Kanazawa’s Loop Buses. Click to enlarge.

 

Videos of Suzuki’s Teachings and Experiences

 

A Zen Life by D.T. Suzuki

Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/AZenLifeD.T.Suzuki.mp4

 

D.T. Suzuki: The Swordsman and the Cat

Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/D.T.SuzukitheSwordsmantheCat.mp4

 

D.T. Suzuki on Being Natural

Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/DTSuzukiBeingNatural.mp4

 

D.T. Suzuki: Complications Arising from Discrimination

Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/DTSuzukiComplicationsArisingfromDiscrimination.mp4

 

D.T. Suzuki on Nirvana

Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/DTSuzukionNirvana.mp4

 

D.T. Suzuki on the Teaching of the Lankavatara

Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/DTSuzukiontheTeachingoftheLankavatara.mp4

 

Recommended Reading (Free Download)

The Zen Doctrine of No-Mind (click to download PDF)

Manual of Zen Buddhism (click to download PDF)

Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind (click to download PDF)

An Introduction to Zen Buddhism (click to download PDF)

The Zen Manifesto: Freedom From Oneself (click to download PDF)

D.T. Suzuki and the Question of War (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.

 

More Books Written or Translated by D.T. Suzuki

Outlines of Mahayana Buddhism (original publisher unknown, 1907)

Outlines of Mahayana Buddhism (original publisher unknown, 1907)

A Brief History of Early Chinese Philosophy (original publisher unknown, 1914)

A Brief History of Early Chinese Philosophy (original publisher unknown, 1914)

Studies in the Lankavatara Sutra (original publisher unknown, 1930)

Studies in the Lankavatara Sutra (original publisher unknown, 1930)

An Introduction to Zen Buddhism (Eastern Buddhist Society, 1934)

An Introduction to Zen Buddhism (Eastern Buddhist Society, 1934)

Manual of Zen Buddhism (Eastern Buddhist Society, 1934)

Manual of Zen Buddhism (Eastern Buddhist Society, 1934)

The Training of the Zen Buddhist Monk (The Eastern Buddhist Society, 1934)

The Training of the Zen Buddhist Monk (The Eastern Buddhist Society, 1934)

Zen and Japanese Culture (Princeton University Press, 1938)

Zen and Japanese Culture (Princeton University Press, 1938)

The Zen Doctrine of No-Mind (Red Wheel/Weiser, 1949)

The Zen Doctrine of No-Mind (Red Wheel/Weiser, 1949)

Essays in Zen Buddhism (Rider for the Buddhist Society, 1953)

Essays in Zen Buddhism (Rider for the Buddhist Society, 1953)

Studies in Zen (Rider and Company, 1955)

Studies in Zen (Rider and Company, 1955)

Mysticism: Christian and Buddhist (original publisher unknown, 1957)

Mysticism: Christian and Buddhist (original publisher unknown, 1957)

Zen Buddhism: Selected Writing (Doubleday, 1958)

Zen Buddhism: Selected Writings (Doubleday, 1958)

Zen and Japanese Buddhism (Japan Travel Bureau, 1958)

Zen and Japanese Buddhism (Japan Travel Bureau, 1958)

Sengai: The Zen of Ink and Paper (original publisher unknown, 1971)

Sengai: The Zen of Ink and Paper (original publisher unknown, 1971)

The Awakening of Zen (Praj-na Press, 1980)

The Awakening of Zen (Praj-na Press, 1980)

 Swedenborg: Buddha of the North (English translation) (Swedenborg Foundation Publishers, 1996)

Swedenborg: Buddha of the North (English translation) (Swedenborg Foundation Publishers, 1996)

Buddha of Infinite Light: The Teachings of Shin Buddhism, the Japanese Way of Wisdom and Compassion (Shambhala, 2002)

Buddha of Infinite Light: The Teachings of Shin Buddhism, the Japanese Way of Wisdom and Compassion (Shambhala, 2002)

The Zen Koan As a Means of Attaining Enlightenment (Tuttle Publishing, 2011)

The Zen Koan As a Means of Attaining Enlightenment (Tuttle Publishing, 2011)

The Core Teachings of D. T. Suzuki (Lulu Press, 2012)

The Core Teachings of D.T. Suzuki (Lulu Press, 2012)

Selected Works of D.T. Suzuki (University of California Press, 2015)

Selected Works of D.T. Suzuki (University of California Press, 2015)

Sources:

  • https://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/D._T._Suzuki
  • https://www.goodreads.com/author/quotes/74355.D_T_Suzuki?page=2
  • http://web.otani.ac.jp/EBS/about.html
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D._T._Suzuki
  • https://www.brainpickings.org/2015/01/30/d-t-suzuki-essays-in-zen-buddhism/
  • https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4211.html
  • http://www.kanazawa-museum.jp/daisetz/english/
  • https://lareviewofbooks.org/article/sage-works-d-t-suzuki/#!
  • http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/D._T._Suzuki
  • https://swedenborg.com/scholars-swedenborgianism-zen-buddhism/
  • https://swedenborg.com/emanuel-swedenborg/about-life/
  • https://swedenborg.com/happy-birthday-d-t-suzuki/
  • http://sweepingzen.com/d-t-suzuki-bio/

For more interesting information:

 

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9 Responses to D.T. Suzuki: Introducing Zen Buddhism to the West

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  1. Sofi on Oct 5, 2018 at 10:29 am

    D.T. Suzuki is such an extraordinary man who continuously learn even when he himself is a Master to teach others. One can see clearly that he had taken in his learnings and fully understanding or realising before he in turn teaches others. It is something internalised and not shallow with just academic knowledge. He has such zest for life that even at age 94, he is still travelling to discover or pursue further knowledge. Most people of that age would have retired to a life of inactivity and just living day to day of waiting for death. Thank you Rinpoche, for sharing with us the life story of this inspiring Master, D.T. Suzuki.

  2. Pastor Adeline Woon on Aug 23, 2018 at 12:16 am

    Medicine Buddha puja encourages healing of all levels – physical, mental and emotional healing for those in need.

    High resolution file of this thangka is available for download for all dharma practitioners around the world and for those who just want sacred images in their environment. Enjoy, be blessed and share this with others.

    Here is the link to free download of this image and many other images: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/downloads/buddha-images.html?nggpage=7

  3. Stella Cheang on Jul 21, 2018 at 9:53 pm

    “Our ordinary life only touches the fringe of personality, it does not cause a commotion in the deepest parts of the soul” – to me, I find this phrase very intriguing. Spiritual awakening comes from experience and not a concept of words, it therefore should triggers deeper reflection, contemplation and looking within to arrive a point of awareness.

  4. Anne Ong on Apr 3, 2018 at 9:09 pm

    It’s always wonderful to read about someone who is inspiring and has many talents. Thank you Rinpoche and blog team for sharing about Professor Daisetsu Teitaro Suzuki who spread Buddhism to the west and is proficient in so many languagesn??

  5. Wan Wai Meng on Mar 20, 2018 at 2:51 am

    Very interesting to get to know about D.T Suzuki and all the works he has done for the Buddha dharma.

  6. yin ping on Mar 5, 2018 at 2:39 am

    I am particularly attracted to this old poet sings:
    ‘When there is a particle of dust in your eyes, the triple world becomes a narrow path; have your mind completely free from objects – and how much this life expands!’

    The eyes are resembled our mind which by nature is bright and clear. Our eye couldn’t open when tiny particle gets into it. Just as our mind will be disturbed and commotion when there are presence of conditions such as pleasure and pain, fame and insignificance, gain and loss, praise and blame. The confused and desire mind is our inner enemy which trap us in samsara.

  7. Pastor Han Nee on Mar 1, 2018 at 5:24 pm

    Thank you Rinpoche for your sharing on this incredibly amazing Master of Zen Buddhism. Professor DT Suzuki is remembered by the world for introducing Zen Buddhism to the West with his numerous translation works on it. He was also largely responsible for the revival of Buddhism worldwide in the late 19th century, as well as for kindling the interest of the West in Buddhism.

    Owing to his skill with languages and his ability to present Zen Buddhist concepts as profound religious thought, he captivated the West (with its scarce knowledge of the religion ) as they became enthralled by his explanation of Buddhist philosophy and Zen Buddhism.

    At an early age, his teacher recognised his spiritual potential and advised him to live like a simple monk in the temple (although he was never ordained) as well as to train in sitting meditation.The dawn of the era of New Buddhism allowed him the opportunity to undergo his Zen training as a lay person.

    Suzuki married Beatrice Erskine Lane, who, like him, was committed to spreading the understanding of Mahayana Buddhism. He continued to propagate Zen Buddhism and write prolifically on it. The couple formed the Eastern Buddhist Society to spread the doctrine of Mahayana Buddhism.

    In essence, DT Suzuki blazed a trail of New Buddhism – he was a pioneer who reshaped traditional Buddhism to transmit it to Westerners as well as Easterners in a way that they could better accept. His legacy is embodied in his achievements as ” a distinguished Zen scholar who promoted Japan and introduced Zen Buddhism to the world”. As a writer ,he published “over 100 books in both English and Japanese that include studies of Pure Land and Zen Buddhism, various Buddhist classics, and works by the ancient Chinese philosopher, Lao Tzu”! He is also well-remembered as a great teacher!

    What an amazing pioneer and trail blazer for Buddhism is Professor DT Suzuki!

  8. Cc on Feb 18, 2018 at 4:32 pm

    This is really inspiring. 100 books on books and essays on Buddhism, Zen and Shin and widely read in the West.

    ??? Thank you Rinpoche for sharing.

  9. Samfoonheei on Feb 17, 2018 at 1:29 pm

    D.T. Suzuki was a Japanese author of more than a hundreds of books and essays on Buddhism, Zen and Shin . He was one of a greatest author, on the subject in both Japanese and English at that time. He was also a prolific translator of Chinese, Japanese, and Sanskrit literature .One of the world’s leading authorities on Zen Buddhism. He was such an amazing great scholar proficient in many languages such as Chinese, English, Pali, Sanskrit and even several European languages. In recognition of his achievements, he was awarded with many honours which has inspired many younger generation of writers.
    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this inspiring post.

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  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Jun 10. 2025 01:45 PM
    Du Fu (712-770 AD), also known as Tu Fu, was a prominent Chinese poet of the Tang Dynasty, often considered one of the greatest alongside Li Bai. He was a poet-historian and a poet-sage, known for his realistic depictions of human suffering and reflections on the troubled times of his era. His poems, reflecting his personal experiences and the political instability of the time, have had a lasting impact on both Chinese and Japanese literary traditions.
    Interesting read.
    Thank you Rinpoche and Anila for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/art-architecture/du-fu-a-poet-savant.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Jun 10. 2025 01:43 PM
    Bojo Jinul also known as Chinul,a Korean Buddhist monk, philosopher, and reformer who is considered one of the most influential figures in Korean Buddhism within the Seon tradition. He’s known for unifying the various Korean Buddhist schools into a single order. He created a more cohesive and strong Buddhist society in Korea, combining all the teachings of the various schools, where he emphasizing both sudden awakening and gradual cultivation, and practical meditation techniques into one. His unification efforts had a profound impact on the development of Korean Buddhism. Jinul’s unique approach to practice and are still studied today. He is regarded as one of the most respected and influential figures in Korean Buddhist history.
    Thank you Rinpoche and Anila for this great sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/bojo-jinul-uniter-of-korean-buddhism.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Jun 10. 2025 01:40 PM
    H H Trisur Rinpoche Jetsun Lungrik Namgyal, also known as Khensur Lungri Namgyel, born in Kham ,eastern Tibet. Trisur Rinpoche was the 101st Gaden Tripa, the leader of the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Rinpoche was one of the most qualified Buddhist teachers being highly trained in both fields of Sutra and Tantra. During the years of Rinpoche’s abbotship, apart from supervising the administration and discipline of the Sangha, he also conducted various pujas and teachings personally. Rinpoche’s contribution towards the monastery is widely recognised, and deeply respected by all, having courage, integrity to hold on to what he sincerely believes in. Rinpoche has dedicated his whole lifetime to the propagation of the Buddhadharma. Trisur Rinpoche has been tirelessly travelling to many parts of the world spreading Dharma teachings. Countries such as France, Spain, Switzerland, Italy, America, China, and Singapore . H H Trisur Rinpoche founded Thar Due Ling Dharma center in Chelles, France and had transmitted precious Buddhist teachings of his lineage. Rinpoche was the most senior Gaden Tripas in the Gelugpa’s 600-year-old history.
    Years back some of HE Tsem Rinpoche’s assistants were fortunate to have been granted an audience with HH the 101st Gaden Trisur Rinpoche, on behalf of Tsem Rinpoche and Kechara.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing of a Great Lama

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/the-courage-and-purity-of-h-h-the-101st-gaden-trisur-rinpoche.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Jun 10. 2025 01:38 PM
    H H Kyabje Pabongka Dechen Nyingpo is by far one of the most popular and influential Gelug religious figures of the 20th Century. One of Phabongkha’s most important aristocratic students, Lhalu Lhacham Yangdzom Tsering relationship to her teacher and his lineage teachings goes along way .She is famously remembered for is her unwavering devotion towards her guru, HH Kyabje Pabongka Rinpoche. Yangdzom Tsering’s Shatra family were ancient sponsors and students of the Gelug tradition and had apparently been patrons of Tsongkhapa the founder of the Gelug school. The life stories of Lady Lhalu Lhacham Yangdzom as mentioned by Joona Repo is indeed inspiring. How her life struggles with tragedies, and her devotion to dorje Shugden and the Gelug tradition throughout her life.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this great sharing of an inspiring lady.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/pabongka-rinpoche-and-his-yogini-student-the-lady-lhalu.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Wednesday, Jun 4. 2025 07:02 PM
    Looking at these pictures remained me of my first pilgrimage to Wu Tai San. With the blessings of our guru, we able to visit Wu Tai San a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site . In fact it never did come to my mind that I am fortunate given a chance to go as I am still very new then. Upon hearing about the pilgrimage I got myself register without much thought. The history and stories of Wu Tai San has inspired me to go there. Interesting the Emperors Kangxi and Qianlong of China are closely connected to WuTai San. Wu Tai San located in Shanxi Province, China renowned as the home of Lord Manjushri the bodhisattva of wisdom, with different emanations of the bodhisattva residing on each of the five peaks. The area is dotted with over 50 temples and monasteries, many of which are historical and architecturally significant. Those temples built over 7 dynasties housing numerous Buddhist relics. Wutai Shan also offers stunning scenery, including snow-capped peaks, forests, and streams. Wu Tai San is one of the four Sacred Buddhist mountains of China, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wutai Shan was known to be a mystical and sacred site inhabited by divine spirits, accompanied by unusual events, such as miraculous light appearances at night.
    We visited all the Holy sites, making offerings and doing prayers at each sites. We even have the opportunity to collect holy stones for future statue insertion or to keep on our altars. Times flies as our pilgrimage ended with so many stories to share with the rest.
    Thank you Rinpoche and writes team sharing those pictures.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/a-kecharian-pilgrimage-to-wu-tai-shan-china.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Wednesday, Jun 4. 2025 06:59 PM
    Padmasambhava, the Lotus-born Guru, also known as Guru Rinpoche is a legendary tantric Buddhist master who is widely revered in Tibetan Buddhism. He is seen as the second Buddha particularly within the Nyingma .He was a legendary Indian Buddhist mystic credited with introducing Vajrayana Buddhism to Tibet in the 8th century. As found in Buddhist scriptures Padmasambhava birth is often associated with legends and prophecies. Interesting…… Padmasambhava is depicted with eight manifestations, each reflecting a different aspect of his miraculous activities. Interesting article .
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/padmasambhava.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Wednesday, Jun 4. 2025 06:57 PM
    Milarepa Cave, situated high in the Himalayan mountain of Tibet, a sacred cave beckons pilgrims and spiritual seekers from across the globe. Milarepa Cave, a site of profound significance in Tibetan Buddhism, is merely a geological wonder. This sacred cave is also a living testament to the power of meditation and devotion. Its where an 11th-century yogi and poet who spent transformative years in solitary practice. Milarepa Cave graces Tibet’s rugged yet stunning landscapes, a region renowned for its deep spiritual heritage and breath-taking natural beauty. The cave’s importance is inseparable from a revered figure and the enduring legacy of Jetsun Milarepa a revered yogi and poet in Tibetan Buddhism. Milarepa Cave stands not just as a geological formation but as a powerful symbol of spiritual transformation and the enduring strength of Tibetan Buddhism. Reading this interesting cave had me Google for more information about this sacred cave. Numerous stories and legends surround Milarepa’s time in the cave, enhancing its mystical aura.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this interesting post.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/milarepas-cave.html
  • albina krestov
    Sunday, Jun 1. 2025 08:31 PM
    I wanted to take a moment to share a recent experience with you regarding my Instagram account. Unfortunately, my account was hacked, which was both frustrating and disappointing. Losing access to something that plays a significant role in my business and personal connections was incredibly stressful.What made the situation even more challenging was discovering that Meta does not have a dedicated support team to assist users facing account compromises. With so many people experiencing this issue daily, it’s alarming that their recovery process is not more accessible or efficient.After numerous failed attempts to recover my account through Meta’s standard procedures, I was fortunate enough to get in touch with a member of the Meta recovery department, @Rothsteincode on X (formerly Twitter), and via email at rothsteincode@gmail.com Their expertise and guidance were invaluable, and thanks to their assistance, I was able to regain full access to my account.
    While I am incredibly grateful for their help, this experience has highlighted a major issue—Meta needs to implement better security measures and provide more reliable support for users dealing with these kinds of problems. The lack of direct customer support is unacceptable, considering how vital social media platforms have become for businesses and individuals alike.I wanted to share this with you in case you or anyone you know ever faces a similar issue. If you ever find yourself in this unfortunate situation, I highly recommend reaching out to @Rothsteincode for assistance. Hopefully, Meta will take action to improve their security policies and customer service in the near future.Thank you for taking the time to read this. Stay safe online, and let’s continue to support each other in this digital space.

    Gmail:rothsteincode@gmail.com

    Twitter:@ Rothsteincode

    Instagram & Facebook:Rothsteincode

    Telegram:@ Rothsteincode
  • SamFoonHeei
    Monday, May 26. 2025 06:09 PM
    A great history of a great yogi which I do enjoy reading , reading over it again and again. Jetsun Milarepa was a famous Tibetan siddha, known as a murderer when he was a young man. Who later turning to Buddhism and becoming a highly accomplished Buddhist disciple. Generally considered as one of Tibet’s most famous yogis and spiritual poets, whose teachings are known among several schools of Tibetan Buddhism. Milarepa’s story is one of struggle, anguish, resolve, and triumph all of which make him recognizably. Practicing these teachings for many years in isolated mountain retreats in caves such as caves hidden deep in the mountains of Tsum Valley. That’s where Milarepa attained enlightenment and gained fame for his incredible perseverance in practice and for his spontaneous songs of realisation. Milarepa is said to be the first to achieve the state of Vajradhara in one lifetime. That’s incredible.
    Thank you Rinpoche for great sharing interesting read

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/milarepa.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Monday, May 26. 2025 06:04 PM
    Visited this old post again, sharing the joy of Kechara House having made it into the Malaysian Book of Records for the Longest non-stop Lamrim Recitation. That’s wonderful , with so many people committing and fulfilling this great mission. The power of collaboration and unity in achieving goals, working together as a team making it a success into the Book of Records is amazing. Looking at those pictures in the blog tells more than a thousands words.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/kechara-13-depts/making-history-the-longest-non-stop-lam-rim-recitation-in-the-malaysia-book-of-records-a-visual-journey.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Monday, May 26. 2025 06:03 PM
    H.H Kyabje Zong Rinpoche was a Gelug Lama, a sharp analyst, master of philosophical debate and a Tantric practitioner. Kyabje Zong Rinpoche was a disciple of the third Trijang Rinpoche, junior tutor of the 14th Dalai Lama. Rinpoche was known as a strong, detached and wrathful lama having impeccable knowledge of all rituals, art and science. Thousands of Westerners have received and benefited from his teachings both in the West and in India and gave many empowerments and teachings as well. Kyabje Zong Rinpoche was renowned for his many actions of powerful magic . We are fortunate and blessed listening to the powerful voice of Kyabje Zong Rinpoche’s precious teachings as in this blog.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/lamrim-teachings-by-hh-kyabje-zong-rinpoche.html
  • Jonathan Helm
    Sunday, May 25. 2025 07:07 AM
    My name is Jonathan Helm, I’m from Michigan USA i contacted HIV 2023 after i was tested positive i tried all means but was not working on till i saw the wonderful work of DOCTOR ZACK BALO and i contacted him. that was how i was cured after taking his herbal medicine for two weeks, contact him today through his email address wiseindividualspell@gmail.com or visit his website https://wiseindividualspell.webnode.com
  • SamFoonHeei
    Friday, May 16. 2025 02:38 PM
    Visiting Tibet, holy Gaden Monastery is everyone dream and a once life time. Of course if we have the means to visit again will be great. End of December 2008 and early January 2009 our Guru H E Tsem Rinpoche with a small group students visited Tibet. Thousands of pilgrims, visitors and tourists around the world have visited this incredible holy land for the last 600 years. Tsem Rinpoche visited Tibet for the first time with an oxygen tank. I am fortunate to visit this holy place with my Dharma brothers and sisters years back.
    With our Guru blessing we went without any without any hitch. Visited most of the monasteries and could feel the powerful energies there. Looking at those pictures in this blog reminds me of trip there.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/i-visited-gaden-for-1st-time-with-an-oxygen-tank.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Friday, May 16. 2025 02:34 PM
    Interesting….. a ground breaking documentary by world BBC where everyone should watch. BBC did mentioned and documented that Jesus was a Buddhist monk and that he had spent some years in India. I would not know about this till I came across this blog. Many people most probably too. Interesting watch one should not miss. Jesus was a religious leader revered in Christianity, one of the world’s major religions. He is regarded by most Christians as the Incarnation of God. Historical evidence indicates that Jesus was well acquainted with Buddhism. Historical evidence indicates that Jesus knew about Buddhism. Other evidence, while perhaps apocryphal, indicates that he spent most of his so-called lost years outside Judea, possibly in Kashmir to study Buddhism exclusively.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/jesus-was-a-buddhist-monk-bbc-documentary.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Friday, May 16. 2025 02:32 PM
    The Great Buddhas of Bamiyan were two monumental Buddhist statues built around 600 CE. A holy site for Buddhists on the Silk Road, historically a caravan route linking the markets of China with those of the Western world. The two most prominent statues were the giant standing sculptures of the Buddhas .It was the site of several Buddhist monasteries where monks at the monasteries lived as hermits. It was until in 2001, both statues were destroyed by the Taliban . Before being blown up in 2001, they were the largest examples of standing Buddha carvings in the world .Buddhism was eliminated in Afghanistan by the 13th century during the Mongol conquests. Sadly all statues depicting humans in Afghanistan was destroyed. They were perhaps the most famous cultural landmarks of the region, and the site was listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Despite the Buddhas’s destruction, the ruins continue to be a popular culture landmark, where many locals, pilgrims and tourist visit the site.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this interesting blog.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/massive-2600-year-old-buddhist-monastery.html

1 · 2 · 3 · 4 · 5 · »

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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
5 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!
5 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
5 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
5 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!
5 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.
5 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
5 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.
5 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.
5 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!
5 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)
6 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)
6 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)
6 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
6 years ago
The first title published by Kechara Comics is Karuna Finds A Way. It tells the tale of high-school sweethearts Karuna and Adam who had what some would call the dream life. Everything was going great for them until one day when reality came knocking on their door. Caught in a surprise swindle, this loving family who never harmed anyone found themselves out of luck and down on their fortune. Determined to save her family, Karuna goes all out to find a solution. See what she does- https://bit.ly/2LSKuWo
Very powerful story! Tibetan Resistance group Chushi Gangdruk reveals how Dalai Lama escaped in 1959- https://bit.ly/2S9VMGX
6 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!
6 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
6 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
6 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
6 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
6 years ago
Most Venerable Uppalavanna – The Chief Female Disciple of Buddha Shakyamuni - She exhibited many supernatural abilities gained from meditation and proved to the world females and males are equal in spirituality- https://bit.ly/31d9Rat
Thailand’s ‘Renegade’ Yet Powerful Buddhist Nuns~ https://bit.ly/2Z1C02m
6 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
6 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
6 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
6 years ago
Sacred Vajra Yogini
Dorje Shugden works & archives - a labour of commitment - https://bit.ly/30Tp2p8
6 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.
6 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.
6 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha. She was his step-mother and aunt. Buddha's mother had passed away at his birth so he was raised by Gotami.
Another nun disciple of Lord Buddha\'s. She had achieved great spiritual abilities and high attainments. She would be a proper object of refuge. This image of the eminent bhikkhuni (nun) disciple of the Buddha, Uppalavanna Theri.
6 years ago
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
6 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
6 years ago
High Sri Lankan monks visit Kechara to bless our land, temple, Buddha and Dorje Shugden images. They were very kind-see pictures- https://bit.ly/2HQie2M
This is pretty amazing!

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

4 days ago
Thanks to members/sponsors who made an extra effort to put up these modern, sleek and striking window curtains. Looks like an entourage of Buddhas coming down to visit and ready to give blessings!!! Are you ready for a powerful blessing during puja? Join us every Saturday at 3pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
5 days ago
Thanks to members/sponsors who made an extra effort to put up these modern, sleek and striking window curtains. Looks like an entourage of Buddhas coming down to visit and ready to give blessings!!! Are you ready for a powerful blessing during puja? Join us every Saturday at 3pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Newly made window curtain with Buddha's print. Mother Tara with Lord Avalokiteshvara. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
5 days ago
Newly made window curtain with Buddha's print. Mother Tara with Lord Avalokiteshvara. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
7th June 2025, completed weekly Dorje Shugden Puja with recitation of Namasangiti. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
5 days ago
7th June 2025, completed weekly Dorje Shugden Puja with recitation of Namasangiti. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
5 June 2025 we had our weekly Swift Return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche this evening. Kechara Kuantan Study Group...Sam
2 weeks ago
5 June 2025 we had our weekly Swift Return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche this evening. Kechara Kuantan Study Group...Sam
1st June 2025, in the most sacred month of Tibetan Buddhism,we had our animals liberation activities.Kechara Kuantan Study Group..Sam
2 weeks ago
1st June 2025, in the most sacred month of Tibetan Buddhism,we had our animals liberation activities.Kechara Kuantan Study Group..Sam
These are the offerings to Buddha during DS puja. We need to strive to make offerings to Buddha every day to generate new merits as well as dispel obstacles. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 weeks ago
These are the offerings to Buddha during DS puja. We need to strive to make offerings to Buddha every day to generate new merits as well as dispel obstacles. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Last day of May, 31st May Dorje Shugden puja completed with recitation of Namasangiti. This puja led by William and attended by Penang members. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 weeks ago
Last day of May, 31st May Dorje Shugden puja completed with recitation of Namasangiti. This puja led by William and attended by Penang members. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Had our weekly Swift Return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche Kechara Kuantan Study Group..Sam
3 weeks ago
Had our weekly Swift Return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche Kechara Kuantan Study Group..Sam
24th May, Dorje Shugden puja completed. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 weeks ago
24th May, Dorje Shugden puja completed. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
#Throwback 17th May 2025, Dorje Shugden puja completed. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
3 weeks ago
#Throwback 17th May 2025, Dorje Shugden puja completed. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
22nd May we had our weekly Swift Return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche this evening. Kechara Kuantan Study group.. Sam
4 weeks ago
22nd May we had our weekly Swift Return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche this evening. Kechara Kuantan Study group.. Sam
18 th May sunny Sunday to start off our monthly animal liberation activities.. Saving hundred thousand lives from pet-shop.Kechara Kuantan study group Sam
4 weeks ago
18 th May sunny Sunday to start off our monthly animal liberation activities.. Saving hundred thousand lives from pet-shop.Kechara Kuantan study group Sam
Last but not least, group photo take. after puja and incense offerings completed. Happy Wesak's Day to all. 12th May 2025. Uploaded by Jacinta.
1 month ago
Last but not least, group photo take. after puja and incense offerings completed. Happy Wesak's Day to all. 12th May 2025. Uploaded by Jacinta.
Puja started at 2 pm with Pastor Patsy giving Dharma talk and presenting 8 auspicious on the altar. What a great way to start the puja! May Rinpoche return swiftly, witnessing the Dharma growth in Penang, a northern state, West of Malaysia. Uploaded by Jacinta
1 month ago
Puja started at 2 pm with Pastor Patsy giving Dharma talk and presenting 8 auspicious on the altar. What a great way to start the puja! May Rinpoche return swiftly, witnessing the Dharma growth in Penang, a northern state, West of Malaysia. Uploaded by Jacinta
There are visitors who came specifically to pay homage to H. E. Tsem Tulku Rinpoche as well as our members arriving for the puja. Uploaded by Jacinta
1 month ago
There are visitors who came specifically to pay homage to H. E. Tsem Tulku Rinpoche as well as our members arriving for the puja. Uploaded by Jacinta
Mostly our relatives and members of the group came to pay homage to Buddha during the day. Generating much merits on Wesak's Day. Uploaded by Jacinta
1 month ago
Mostly our relatives and members of the group came to pay homage to Buddha during the day. Generating much merits on Wesak's Day. Uploaded by Jacinta
Offerings are made on all altars. It was being decorated delicately by the members. Wesak's Day Celebration at Penang Dorje Shugden on 12th May (Mon). Uploaded by Jacinta.
1 month ago
Offerings are made on all altars. It was being decorated delicately by the members. Wesak's Day Celebration at Penang Dorje Shugden on 12th May (Mon). Uploaded by Jacinta.
Group's photo after preparation for Wesak has completed. Taken on 11th May @ Penang Dorje Shugden Temple. Uploaded by Jacinta
1 month ago
Group's photo after preparation for Wesak has completed. Taken on 11th May @ Penang Dorje Shugden Temple. Uploaded by Jacinta
Wesak's Day preparation on 11th May (Sun) : Penang Dorje Shugden. Upload by Jacinta
1 month ago
Wesak's Day preparation on 11th May (Sun) : Penang Dorje Shugden. Upload by Jacinta
15 May Had our weekly Swift Return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche this evening.kechara Kuantan Study Group.Sam
1 month ago
15 May Had our weekly Swift Return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche this evening.kechara Kuantan Study Group.Sam
Completed Dorje Shugden puja @ 3rd May 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
1 month ago
Completed Dorje Shugden puja @ 3rd May 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
9th May.. Some of the Offerings during yesterday puja.Kechara Kuantan Study Group ..Sam
1 month ago
9th May.. Some of the Offerings during yesterday puja.Kechara Kuantan Study Group ..Sam
Had our weekly Swift Return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche this evening.Kechara Kuantan Study Group.Sam
1 month ago
Had our weekly Swift Return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche this evening.Kechara Kuantan Study Group.Sam
Meditation Sharing & Practice @ Kechara Ipoh Study Group - Guan Sun
1 month ago
Meditation Sharing & Practice @ Kechara Ipoh Study Group - Guan Sun
Beautiful Gyenze Statue at Kechara Kuantan with an abundance of offerings .. Kechara Kuantan Study Group.. Sam
2 months ago
Beautiful Gyenze Statue at Kechara Kuantan with an abundance of offerings .. Kechara Kuantan Study Group.. Sam
Offerings to the Buddha during DS puja. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Offerings to the Buddha during DS puja. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
26th April 2025, completed Dorje Shugden puja with recitation of Namasangiti, led by William. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 months ago
26th April 2025, completed Dorje Shugden puja with recitation of Namasangiti, led by William. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
27 th April cleaning of Gyenze Chapel. Kechara this afternoon.Kuantan Study group..sam
2 months ago
27 th April cleaning of Gyenze Chapel. Kechara this afternoon.Kuantan Study group..sam
Had our DORJE SHUGDEN Puja this evening .May HE Tsem Rinpoche swiftly return to KFR at BENTONG. Kechara Kuantan Study Group..Sam
2 months ago
Had our DORJE SHUGDEN Puja this evening .May HE Tsem Rinpoche swiftly return to KFR at BENTONG. Kechara Kuantan Study Group..Sam
Beautiful Lama tsongkhapa Statue at Kechara Kuantan. Kechara Kuantan Study Group by Sam
2 months ago
Beautiful Lama tsongkhapa Statue at Kechara Kuantan. Kechara Kuantan Study Group by Sam
Pastor Seng Piow led the puja team members of the Kechara Penang group. Uploaded by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Pastor Seng Piow led the puja team members of the Kechara Penang group. Uploaded by Jacinta.
Completed Dorje Shugden puja at Penang chapel. 19th April 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 months ago
Completed Dorje Shugden puja at Penang chapel. 19th April 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
A beautiful day with blue clear sky to start off releasing fishes.Saving thousands of lives ..fishes birds and fishing baits.kechara kuantangroup Sam
2 months ago
A beautiful day with blue clear sky to start off releasing fishes.Saving thousands of lives ..fishes birds and fishing baits.kechara kuantangroup Sam
Yesterday had our weekly Swift return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche. Kechara kuantan group Sam
2 months ago
Yesterday had our weekly Swift return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche. Kechara kuantan group Sam
Periodically, tormas will be replaced with new ones by Choong Soon Heng. The teardrop and round shape specially made and prepared by Siew Hong. Due to their efforts, our puja is complete with the necessary offerings recommended by Rinpoche. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 months ago
Periodically, tormas will be replaced with new ones by Choong Soon Heng. The teardrop and round shape specially made and prepared by Siew Hong. Due to their efforts, our puja is complete with the necessary offerings recommended by Rinpoche. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Various 'kuih-muih' offered to Buddhas, generating tremendous merits for both the recipients and sponsors. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 months ago
Various 'kuih-muih' offered to Buddhas, generating tremendous merits for both the recipients and sponsors. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Completed Dorje Shugden @12th April, 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Completed Dorje Shugden @12th April, 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Offerings were prepared before Dorje Shugden puja started on Sunday, 13th April in Kechara Ipoh Study Group centre (Kin Hoe)
2 months ago
Offerings were prepared before Dorje Shugden puja started on Sunday, 13th April in Kechara Ipoh Study Group centre (Kin Hoe)
Mr. Mannance Wong offered lights on behalf of all in Kechara Ipoh Study Group before the start of the puja (Kin Hoe)
2 months ago
Mr. Mannance Wong offered lights on behalf of all in Kechara Ipoh Study Group before the start of the puja (Kin Hoe)
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Dorje Shugden
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