The Hidden Nature of Trolls

Sep 24, 2024 | Views: 4,305

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Long before trolls became synonymous with abhorrent pot-stirring sociopaths on the Internet, they were popularly known as mythical creatures who roamed the ancestral lands – mountains, forests, bridges, etc. Many parts of the world have tales of troll-like monsters deeply rooted in their culture but trolls are undeniably most prevalent in Scandinavian mythology and folklore.

 

Overview

T0.1_Asbjornsen_and_Moe's_Norske_folkeeventyr_1874_book_cover

Book cover of an early edition of Asbjornsen and Moe’s Norske Folkeeventyr

Since time immemorial, trolls have heavily featured in Scandinavian folk tales, so much so that they have become part of Scandinavian heritage. Take Norway for example. In the 1830s, two guys named Asbjornsen and Moe, who were pretty much the Norwegian version of the German Grimm Brothers, scoured the whole of Southern Norway in a quest to compile tales from native folklore. A large part of the stories collected were about trolls.

Like the Grimm Brothers, they enjoyed huge success with their compendium of folk tales and their compilation is still a staple for Norwegian children today. In fact, trolls are so ingrained in Norwegian culture that it is common to see not only troll statues or miniatures at every other corner but also places and facilities named “Troll”. It really does say a lot that the only car ever produced by Norway was named the Troll.

 

Origins

T0.2 Ymir

Ymir suckles from the cow Auðumbla while she licks Búri from the ice in a painting by Nicolai Abildgaard (1790) inspired by the Prose Edda narrative

Ironically, despite being so infamous, little is known about the origins of trolls and their history remains rather ambiguous. That being said, there are two prevailing tales which are frequently repeated as the genesis of trolls. One is gleaned from bits and pieces of old Norse legends whilst the other is derived from records of early Christian missionaries.

According to countless tales in Norse mythology, the first troll was “Ymir”, the oldest creature of the Norse universe. Ymir hailed from the Jotuns, thus trolls are also said to be descended from the Jotun. The Jotun were a race very similar to the Titans of ancient Greece.

Like many mystical creatures, their appearance varies depending on which story one reads. In some accounts, the Jotun are certainly troll like, with multiple heads, deformed bodies and claws as well as fangs. However, there are equally contrasting descriptions of the Jotun as being aesthetically beautiful. They were sworn enemies of the Norse Gods and legend has it that they are destined to face each other in an epic battle to settle the score once and for all on Judgement Day.

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Illustration of Thor, Norse God of Thunder hurling his mystical hammer at a Jotun

However, trolls did not share their forefathers’ enthusiasm for a bloodbath with the Norse Gods. On contrary, they were the ones who no longer cared about fighting a battle of good versus evil on Judgment Day. In fact, early Scandinavian folklore tends to highlight the trolls’ preference for isolation over picking fights, and their tendency to avoid contact especially with humans. Some even go on to describe how trolls hate being disturbed, to the extent of gobbling up anyone unlucky enough to stumble upon them.

A darker account of the origins of trolls can be found in a Christian demonological doctrine written by the Bishop of Linkoping, Erichus Johannes Prytz around 1632. It set out the premise that trolls were fallen angels – angels who had been expelled from heaven and:

“landed in the mountains are called mountain trolls, the ones in forests are called forest trolls, forest nymphs, elves and so on and so forth.”

Based on this theory, trolls are alluded to as being devious in nature with no proper fixed form. They essentially assume whatever form necessary to lead people to damnation, be it as alluringly beautiful or hideously sly creatures.

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Statue of a fallen angel

 

Appearance

Following the conflicting trend of their ancestry, descriptions of trolls are also divided, from being plain and repulsive to having enchantingly beautiful physiques.

Across Scandinavian folklore, male trolls are predominantly described as having a human-like form but with one or more grotesque features, e.g. a big protruding nose, a big belly, long breasts, deformed bodies, disproportionate limbs, enormous feet, a crooked back or even several heads. For instance, folktales in Ebeltoft, Denmark describe trolls as man-eating ogres with humps on their backs and wearing pointed red caps. In Gudmanstrup, Denmark, which is a couple of miles away from Ebeltoft, trolls are described as giants devoid of humps and wearing long black clothes. In certain regions of Scandinavia, trolls are said to be smaller, almost dwarf-like and more sinister looking.

To put things into perspective, the following are some common artistic impressions of trolls based on Scandinavian mythology and folklore.

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Troll2

Troll3

Troll4

In the case of female trolls or “trollkoner”, there are some who look like their male counterparts but in general, Trollknoner are usually described as being hauntingly beautiful but with a catch. Such beauty either comes with a hidden abnormality or is merely an illusory front to a hideously deformed appearance.

A perfect illustration of this is the “Huldra” or “Tallemaja” in Swedish, who are troll-like women living in the woods. Described as being enchanting and wildly beautiful, the Huldra looks exactly like a female human being but for a long cow’s tail (or at times, fox tail), which she would naturally hide upon meeting any human. In some tales, her back is said to be a hollowed-out tree or covered in tree bark.

Huldra

Illustration of a Huldra

Some legends claim that the Huldra is friendly if approached properly. On a good day, she might even offer advice such as where the best fishing spots are located. In others tales, she is an evil seductress who either entraps young men to marry her or leads them to a horrible death.

The existence of the Huldra can be traced all the way back to the time of Adam and Eve. According to legend, Adam and Eve had many children after being cast out from the Garden of Eden. One day, while Eve was bathing all her children, God came to visit. For some reason, Eve felt compelled to lie to God about having finished bathing her children. She even hid those who were still dirty.

Upon hearing Eve’s answer, God proclaimed, “Then let all that is hidden, remain hidden.” The unlucky hidden children became “De Underjordiske” (the ones living underground), lost souls condemned to live under the surface of the earth. Huldra is said to be one of the De Underjordiske, but for reasons undisclosed, she remained above the ground albeit confined mostly to the forests.

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Illustration of a Nisse

Some insist that there is a third category of trolls at play, namely the “Nisser” or “Tomte” in Swedish. They are humanoid and dwarf-like but with none of the grotesque features. Some say that the Nisser are not trolls per se but a type of ancient ancestral spirit. However, due to early inaccurate romanised translations, they debuted as trolls or goblins to the English-speaking world and have since been stuck with that categorisation.

In essence, the Nisser are usually responsible for the protection and welfare of the farmstead and its buildings. They are described as older, little men about the height of a young child, although they can change their size at will, from that of a five-year-old child to a thumb. They are also said to have the ability to become invisible.

According to Swedish folklore, Nisser are often garbed in ragged clothes, usually gray or navy blue, but sport bright red caps on their heads. The folktale also advises that it is better to leave them dressed that way. The story goes that upon being provided new clothes by a farmer’s wife (out of kindness), a Nisse deemed himself too elegant to perform any more farm labour and thus disappeared from the farm.

Stockholm Tomtar

Statue of a Nisse/Tomte in the streets of Stockholm, Sweden

The Nisser require very little in exchange for taking care of the farm, its livestock, the welfare of the farmer and his family. They demand only the respect as well as the trust of the farmer and a bowl of “Julegrot” (Christmas porridge) with butter on Christmas Eve. It is commonplace for farmers to place bowls of rice porridge on their doorsteps for the Nisser, just like how cookies and milk are put out for Santa Claus. The Nisser are also said to fulfil the role played by Santa Claus in Western Christmas traditions i.e. delivering presents to the family on Christmas Eve.

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Illustration of a Vittra

Another deserving creature worth a mention is the “Vittra” from Sweden. Although technically not categorised as a troll, in the north of Sweden, the Vittra is considered the equivalent of the troll and Tomte of the south.

The Vittra is said to prefer living underground tending to cattle rather than meddling in human affairs. However, they have been known to surface and “borrow” cattle from time to time, usually under a cloak of invisibility. The good news (for the owner) is that the “returned” cattle usually had the ability to give more milk, believed to be a sign of gratitude from the Vittra.

However, they are also known to be very vindictive if offended or disrespected, and will do whatever it takes to make their target miserable, to the extent of conjuring accidents that can harm or kill. Interestingly, one can tell the mood of a Vittra from its appearance. They will often be red if unhappy and white if they are in good mood.

 

Interesting Characteristics

Despite their different categorisations, the following are some common characteristics attributable to trolls.

 

Intellectually Challenged or Cunning Tricksters

In general, large trolls are portrayed as brutish and less intellectual while human- and smaller-sized trolls are more sophisticated than their bigger counterparts. Thus, gigantic trolls are usually made out to be stupid and dangerous. They are also constantly being outsmarted by the heroes.

The tale of the “Three Billy Goats Gruff” demonstrates that even goats are capable of outwitting trolls. The story tells of how the two weaker goats managed to cross the bridge by tricking the troll into not eating them and instead, to wait for the last goat on the pretext that he was the plumpest of them all. In fact, the last goat was the strongest of the lot and best placed to defend against the troll. The troll ended up being gutted to death by the last goat when the troll tried to eat it.

Three Billy Goats Gruff

There were once three Billy Goats who lived in a meadow at the foot of a mountain, and their last name was Gruff. There was the Big Billy Goat Gruff, and the Middle-sized Billy Goat Gruff, and the Little Billy Goat Gruff. They all three jumped about among the rocks in the meadow and ate what grass they could find, but it wasn’t very much.

One day the Littlest Billy Goat Gruff looked up at the high mountain overhead, and he thought to himself, “It looks as though there were a great deal of fine grass up on the mountain. I believe I’ll just run up there all by myself, without telling anyone, and eat so much grass and eat so much grass that I’ll grow to be as big as anybody.”

So off the Little Billy Goat Gruff started without telling his brothers a word about it. He ran along, tip-tap, tip-tap, tip-tap, until at last he came to a wide river, with a bridge over it.

Now the Little Billy Goat did not know it, but this bridge belonged to a great, terrible Troll, and the little goat had not gone more than half-way across when he heard the Troll shouting from under the bridge.

“Who’s that going across my bridge?” shouted the Troll in his great loud voice.

“It’s me, the Littlest Billy Goat Gruff!” answered the Little Billy Goat in his little bit of voice.

“Oh! it’s the Littlest Billy Goat Gruff, is it? Well, you won’t go much farther, for I’m the Troll that owns this bridge, and now I’m coming to eat you up.” And with that the Troll looked up over the edge of the bridge.

When the Little Billy Goat Gruff saw him, he was very much frightened. “Oh, dear, good Mr Troll, please don’t eat me up,” he cried. “I’m such a very little goat that I would scarcely be a mouthful for you. I have a brother who is a great deal bigger than I am; wait till he comes, for he’d make a much better meal for you than I would.”

“But if he’s much bigger than you are he may be tough.”

“Oh, no, he’s just as tender as I am.”

“And a great deal bigger?”

“Oh, yes, a great deal bigger.”

“Very well then, I’ll wait for him. Run along!”

So the little goat ran on, tip-tap! tip-tap! tip-tap! across the bridge, and on up the mountain to where he was safe. And glad enough he was to be out of that scrape, I can tell you.

Now it was not very long after this that the Middle-sized Billy Goat Gruff began to think he’d like to go up on the mountain too. He did not say anything about it to the Great Big Billy Goat Gruff, but off he set, all by himself—trap-trap! trap-trap! trap-trap! After a while he came to the bridge, where the Troll lived, and he stepped out upon it, trap-trap! trap-trap! trap-trap!

He’d barely reached the middle of it when the Troll began shouting at him in his great, terrible voice:

“Who’s that going across my bridge?”

“It’s me, the Middle-sized Billy Goat Gruff,” answered the Middle-sized Billy Goat in his middle-sized voice.

“Oh, it is, is it? Then you’re the very one I’ve been waiting for. I’m the Troll that owns this bridge, and now I’m coming to eat you up.”

At that the Middle-sized Billy Goat Gruff was in a great fright. “Oh, dear Mr Troll, good Mr Troll, please don’t eat me up! I have a brother that’s a great deal bigger than I am. Just wait till he comes along, for he’d make a much better meal for you than I would.”

“A great deal bigger?”

“Yes, a great deal bigger.”

“Very well then, run along and I’ll wait till he comes. Only the biggest goat there is is fit to make a meal for me.”

The Middle-sized Billy Goat was not slow to run along as the Troll bade him. He hurried across the river and up the mountain as fast as he could go, trappity-trap! trappity-trap! trappity-trap! And just weren’t he and his little brother glad to see each other again, and to be safely over the Troll’s bridge, and up where the good grass was!

And now it was the turn of the Big Billy Goat Gruff to begin to think he’d like to go up on the mountain too. “I believe that’s where the Little Billy Goat Gruff and the Middle-sized Billy Goat Gruff have gone,” said he to himself. “If I don’t look out they’ll be growing so fat up there that they’ll be as big as I am. I think I’d better go and eat the long green mountain grass too.” So the next morning off he set in the pleasant sunshine. Klumph-klumph! klumph-klumph! He was so big you could hear his hoofs pounding on the stones while he was still a mile away.

After a while he came to the bridge where the Troll lived, and out he stepped on it, klumph-klumph! klumph-klumph! and the bridge shook and bent under his weight as he walked. Then the Troll that lived under it was in a fearful rage. “Who’s that going across my bridge?” he bellowed, and his voice was so terrible that all the little fish in the river swam away and hid under the rocks at the sound of it.

But the Big Billy Goat was not one bit frightened.

“It’s me, the Biggest Billy Goat Gruff,” he answered, in a voice as big as the Troll’s own.

“Oh, it is, is it? Then just stop a bit—for you’re the one I’ve been waiting for. I’m the Troll that owns this bridge, and now I’m coming to eat you up!” and with that the great grey Troll poked his head up over the bridge, and his eyes looked like two great mill-wheels, and they were going round and round in his head with rage. But still the Big Billy Goat was not one bit frightened.

“So you’re a Troll, are you! And you own this bridge, do you? And now you’re going to eat me up? We’ll just see about that:

“I have a forehead as hard as stone,
And I’ll mash you all up, body and bone!”

When the Troll heard the Big Billy Goat talk to him that way he bellowed so that the Middle-sized Billy Goat and the Little Billy Goat heard him all the way up on the mountain where they were. He jumped up on the bridge and put down his big, bushy head and ran at the Billy Goat, and the Big Billy Goat put down his head and ran at the Troll, and they met in the middle of the bridge. But the Billy Goat’s head was harder than the Troll’s, so he knocked him down and thumped him about, and then he took him up on his horns and threw him over the edge of the bridge into the river below, and the Troll sank like a piece of lead and never was seen or heard of again.

But the Big Billy Goat went on up the mountain; and you may believe that his two brothers were glad to see him again, and to hear that the great wicked Troll was gone from under the bridge.

And after that they all stayed up on the mountain together, and the smaller goats ate so much grass and grew so fat and big that after a while no one could have told one Billy Goat from the other.

There are also tales in which trolls employ trickery to lure humans to their lair to do their bidding. A typical example of this is the Huldra.

Brunnmigi

Illustration of a Brunnmigi

Trolls can also be cruel tricksters. Take for example the “Brunnmigi”, a peculiar class of troll whose only claim to fame is peeing into wells and fountains. Whilst the classic Norse legend is unclear as to why the Brunnmigi adopted this behaviour, they somehow managed to convince the Great Sea-King Hrolfr and his men to voluntarily gather and drink water from a well that the Brunnmigi were soiling.

 

Vindictive and Vain but (interestingly) with Integrity

Many folktales reveal how heroes have capitalised on the vanity of trolls in order to escape. One popular example is the tale of “Boots Who Ate a Match With The Troll”. In essence, the hero, Askeladden, escaped the troll by boasting of his ability to cut open his stomach to make room for more food. Of course, unknown to the troll, Askeladden only slit open the backpack which he had worn in front of his chest earlier. Too proud to be outdone, the troll proceeded to slit open his own stomach and perished from the self-inflicted wound.

Boots Who Ate a Match With the Troll

Once upon a time there was a farmer who had three sons; his means were small, and he was old and weak, and his sons would take to nothing. A fine large wood belonged to the farm, and one day the father told his sons to go and hew wood, and try to pay off some of his debts. Well, after a long talk, he got them to set off, and the eldest was to go first. But when he had got well into the wood, and began to hew at a mossy old fir, what should he see coming up to him but a great sturdy Troll.

“If you hew in this wood of mine,” said the Troll, I’ll kill you!”

When the lad heard that, he threw the axe down, and ran off home as fast as he could lay legs to the ground; so he came in quite out of breath, and told them what had happened, but his father called him “hare-heart”. No Troll would ever have scared him from hewing when he was young, he said.Next day the second son turn came, and he fared just the same. He had scarce hewn three strokes at the fir, before the Troll came to him too, and said:

“If you hew in this wood of mine, I’ll kill you.”

The lad dared not so much as look at him, but threw down the axe, took to his heels, and came scampering home just like his brother. So when he got home, his father was angry again, and said no Troll had ever scared him when he was young.The third day Boots wanted to set off.

“You, indeed!” said the two elder brothers; “you’ll do it bravely, no doubt! you, who have scarce ever set your foot out of the door.”

Boots said nothing to this, but only begged them to give him a good store of food. His mother had no cheese, so she set the pot on the fire to make him a little, and he put it into a scrip and set off. So when he had hewn a bit, the Troll came to him too, and said:

“If you hew in this wood of mine, I’ll kill you.”

But the lad was not slow; he pulled his cheese out of the scrip in a trice, and squeezed it till the whey spurted out.

“Hold your tongue!” he cried to the Troll, “or I’ll squeeze you as I squeeze the water out of this white stone.”

“Nay, dear friend!” said the Troll, “only spare me, and I’ll help you to hew.”

Boots and the troll eating
Well, on those terms the lad was willing to spare him, and the Troll hewed so bravely, that they felled and cut up many, many fathoms in the day. But when even drew near, the Troll said:

“Now you’d better come home with me, for my house is nearer than yours.”

So the lad was willing enough; and when they reached the Troll’s house, the Troll was to make up the fire, while the lad went to fetch water for their porridge, and there stood two iron pails so big and heavy, that he couldn’t so much as lift them from the ground.

“Pooh!” said the lad, “it isn’t worth while to touch these finger-basins. I’ll just go and fetch the spring itself.”

“Nay, nay, dear friend!” said the Troll; ” I can’t afford to lose my spring; just you make up the fire, and I’ll go and fetch the water.”

So when he came back with the water, they set to and boiled up a great pot of porridge.

“It’s all the same to me,” said the lad; “but if you’re of my mind, we’ll eat a match!”

“With all my heart,” said the Troll.

For he thought he could surely hold his own in eating. So they sat down; but the lad took his scrip unawares to the Troll, and hung it before him, and so he spooned more into the scrip than he ate himself; and when the scrip was full, he took up his knife and made a slit in the scrip. The Troll looked on all the while, but said never a word. So when they had eaten a good bit longer, the Troll laid down his spoon, saying:

“Nay! but I can’t eat a morsel more.”

“But you shall eat,” said the youth; “I’m only half done; why don’t you do as I did, and cut a hole in your paunch? You’ll be able to eat then as much as you please.”

“But doesn’t it hurt one cruelly?” asked the Troll.

“Oh,” said the youth, “nothing to speak of.”

So the Troll did as the lad said, and then you must know very well that he lost his life; but the lad took all the silver and gold that he found in the hill-side, and went home with it, and you may fancy it went a great way to pay off the debt.

Askeladden

Depiction of a scene from the tale of “Boots Who Ate a Match With The Troll”

Capitalising on their vanity works even when dealing with trolls of a higher intellect. This is apparent in a folktale from Tiveden. A boy on a fishing trip was down on his luck when he chanced upon a Huldra. Upon noticing a fox’s tail sticking out below the maiden’s skirt, he bowed deeply and said politely in a soft voice, “Milady, I see that your petticoat shows below your skirt“. The maiden thanked him gracefully and shuffling her tail back under her skirt, she told the boy to go fish on the other side of the lake. From that day onwards, the boy never failed to catch a fish every time he threw out the line. This was the Huldra’s reward for his politeness.

This is possibly the origin of the strong belief that if by chance you notice a tail or hairy feet etc. under the dress of a Huldra, you should discreetly and politely make her aware of this in order to be generously rewarded.

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A Nisse with a bowl of its favourite food, porridge

Naturally, if you are rude, offensive or have somehow managed to upset a troll, you would have to pay for it one way or another. A drastic example of this can be seen in the tale of a starving servant girl who ate the porridge set out for a Nisse. Obviously upset from being deprived of his porridge, the troll took his revenge by causing the servant girl to dance ceaselessly until she died.

Another interesting troll trait gleaned from folklore is that they will keep their end of the bargain even when they are on the losing end. This can be seen in the story of Esbern, who was facing huge problems in his romantic life. The father of the girl he loved would only consent to their marriage if Esbern first constructed a rather large church. Whilst mulling over his dilemma, he chanced upon a troll who agreed to build the church for Esbern. The catch was that the troll would get Esbern’s eyes and soul if Esbern could not discover the troll’s name by the time the job was done.

Things looked bleak for Esbern – the construction of the church was almost completed and he had exhausted all his avenues but still was not able to uncover the troll’s name. Luckily for him, at the last minute, he revealed his dilemma to the girl he loved and she proceeded to pray for him. Her prayers worked as Esbern then overheard the troll’s wife singing to her baby, and the lyrics included the name of her husband. Esber wiped the smug smile off the troll’s face when he correctly gave the troll’s name upon completion of the church. Frustrated by the turn of events, the troll left in a huff whilst Esbern enjoyed his happily ever after.

 

Magical Powers and Shapeshifting

bauer_stone troll by John Bauer

Stone troll by John Bauer

It is clear from Scandinavian folklore that certain trolls have magical powers. To name but a few;

  • Nisser have the ability to change their size at will
  • Huldras are believed to have the power of hypnosis at their disposal
  • Nisser and Vittra have the power of invisibility
  • Trolls are said to be able to travel on the winds
  • Trolls can sneak into houses undetected
  • Some trolls can transform themselves into logs or stubs. It is said that if you take out your knife and cut into them, they will run away as they cannot stand the touch of steel.
  • Some trolls can morph into animate objects like cats, dogs or snakes and even inanimate objects like a rolling ball of synthetic fibres
  • Some trolls can inflict illnesses on people. Whilst usually a form of retribution, some randomly shoot magical projectiles laced with diseases.
  • It is also said that trolls have a special influence on children, hence the belief that children’s clothes are not to be left outside at night lest the trolls gain access to their minds.

The magical powers of trolls also encompass the creation of monsters. A vicar, Mogens Pedersen, recorded in 1635 that two trolls were responsible for the creation of Storsjöodjuret, a huge serpent-like sea monster said to be dwelling in Lake Storsjön, the 5th largest lake in Sweden. Legend has it that the trolls Jata and Kata were brewing a potion in their cauldron on the shores of the lake. They didn’t really know what they were doing but after years of brewing, a black sea serpent leapt from the cauldron and dived into the lake. It is said to have grown to an enormous size, entirely surrounding the island of Frösön. To date, there have been over 200 reported sightings of the creature, and a group has been established to investigate reports from witnesses and to collate information on the monster.

lake Storsjön

Lake Storsjön

 

Aversion to Sunlight

With a few exceptions, trolls generally have a strong aversion to sunlight. They are said to turn to stone when exposed to sunlight, thus it is no wonder that certain trolls avoid sunlight like the plague. In fact, many rocky outcrops around the Scandinavian mountains are said to be attributable to trolls. To name but a few;

  • Trold-Tindterne (Troll Peaks) – The stone crags of Trold-Tindterne in central Norway are said to be two armies of trolls that once fought a great battle until sunrise caught them and turned them to stone.
Trollpeak

One of the stone crags of Trold-Tindterne (Troll Peaks) in central Norway

  • Hvítserkur – Legend goes that Hvítserkur, found at the Vatnsnes peninsula in North-West Iceland, is actually a petrified troll. The troll was en route to tear down the church bell of a nearby convent when he got caught by daylight and turned into stone.
hvitserkur-the-troll-of-north-west-iceland-1

Hvítserkur in North-West Iceland

  • Reynisdrangar – The basalt rock formations known as Reynisdrangar in Iceland are said to be former trolls who were caught in the sunlight as they tried to drag their ship ashore and were turned forever to stone.
Famous Reynisdrangar rock formations

Reynisdrangar in Iceland

 

Hidden Treasures

troll-and-treasure.teach

Hidden treasures

It is generally accepted that trolls who lived in the mountains were wealthier than their forest-dwelling counterparts. Laying one’s hands on these treasures was one of the chief rewards of getting the better of trolls.

In addition, folklore suggests that one should not be too hasty in disposing of worthless things given by a troll. As trolls lived in a mirror-like world, what was dirt on one world would be gold on another – so that worthless thing might just later turn out to be a priceless treasure.

 

Beyond the Scandinavian sphere

 

Philippines: Duwende Puti and Duwende Itim

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Illustration of a Duwende

These tiny humanoid underground creatures comprise of “Duwende Puti” and “Duwende Itim”. They are polar opposites in that Duwende Puti are kind creatures who bring about good luck. Duwende Itim on the other hand are mean folk who love to play pranks on humans. However, both are adamant about respecting nature. Whilst they generally keep to themselves, they will make themselves known when their environment is disturbed.

For example, someone who kicked an anthill on or near the home of a Duwende Itim would be punished with a myriad of ailments from twisted mouth to swollen testicles. In contrast, a kindly farmer who took care of his plot would be rewarded by the Duwende Puti with a greater abundance of crops than usual. According to folklore, reciting “Tabi-tabi po” aloud before entering what might be their space is the best way to avoid offending the Duwende.

 

Germany: Dwarves

In German mythology, dwarves more or less occupy the same position as the Scandinavian troll. They are usually described as subterranean beings who dwell in the mountains and in the earth, and are associated with smithing, mining, and crafting. It is believed that they can become invisible and are often hostile. However, like trolls, they can do good deeds in return for kindness.

 

Japan: Oni

Oni

Statue of a Japanese Oni

The Oni is humanoid in form with grotesque unnatural features. They are often described as hideous, gigantic creatures with sharp claws, wild hair, and two long horns growing from their heads. The colour of their skin varies but is commonly depicted as red or blue. Wearing tiger skin loincloths and carrying an iron club (Kanabo), they generally go around terrorising people.

 

Greenland: Troll

In the folktales of the Inuit people of Greenland, trolls are huge, hairy beasts with enormous bellies that drag on the ground as they walk. They roam around the uninhabited hills looking for unsuspecting travellers to capture with their long dagger-like fingernails and eat.

 

Malevolent or Benevolent?

If one were to comb through Scandinavian mythology and folklore, it appears that prior to the introduction of Christianity, trolls were not inherently seen as evil. They had similar temperaments to human beings and although they could wreak more havoc when offended, they were not stigmatised with links to the devil.

In fact, trolls were viewed as neutral beings in the sense that they were neither out to get humans nor was it their primary objective to harm although they would not hesitate to do so to satisfy their needs. However, some trolls are believed to be fiercely protective of nature and to show great affection for animals.

 

Protectors of the Environment

Troll folklore shows that some trolls are very protective of the forest. In fact, they are portrayed as protective nature spirits defending the forest against human greed.

A classic example is the popular Norwegian tale of “Boots who ate a match with the troll” where the troll repeatedly said “This is my forest. No chopping in my forest. I’m gonna eat you up” before gobbling up the first two victims. Granted, the troll did have a vested interest in protecting its home, but the folktale also emphasised its respect for nature.

Bysen_possible

Illustration of a Bysen

The Baltic island of Gotland is said to be home to a ghostlike troll i.e. the Bysen. They are said to be humans who committed some crime during their lifetime and now are condemned to walk the earth forever. These dwarven grey creatures roam the forests with an axe, carefully chopping trees or branches and generally maintaining and protecting the forests. They make life difficult for forest workers with a range of tricks including turning over timber loads, causing machinery to malfunction and delaying transports of timber.

These protective traits are also apparent in Norwegian, Danish and Swedish folktales relating to charcoal kilns built in forests. Charcoal kilns were not only fire hazards but also disruptive and a threat to forest creatures. One story tells of a Huldra seducing a lonely charcoal burner, thus preventing him from guarding the kiln’s fire and causing the destruction of the entire kiln.

Huldra and charcoal burner_Svenska folksagner(1882)

Huldra and charcoal burner by Svenska Folksagner (1882)

There is another version involving a worker who rescued a beautiful maiden lost in the forest. He brought her back to his forest cabin, located next to a charcoal kiln, for a night of passion as his reward for rescuing her. The maiden’s only condition was that he not look out of the window while they were intimate. He looked anyway and was shocked to discover that she was none other than a Huldra and was extinguishing the kiln’s fire with her tail while distracting him. He ran away and never returned.

Yet another variation tells of a fair maiden who showed up one late evening at the doorstep of a worker in charge of guarding the fire at a charcoal kiln in the forest. In exchange for food and shelter, the maiden agreed to the worker’s demand that she bed him on two conditions. The first was for him to never tell another soul of their night of passion and the other was for him to not look out of the cabin window while they were together. The rest of the story is the same except that he returned to the site the next morning, only to discover that the charcoal kiln and his forest cabin were completely destroyed.

Huldra are also often said to be connected with Frau Holda (or Frau Holle), the German protectress of agriculture and the goddess of women’s crafts.

TimmeHolda2

Early sketch of the German protectress of agriculture and goddess of women’s crafts, Frau Holda, entitled Frau Holda’s Paradise

There are also numerous tales of trolls taking action against those disrespecting or disturbing nature. An example is the Scandinavian tale of a man named Jon. Jon spent his days fishing to the point of excessiveness. One day, as he was fishing, he heard a cry coming from the mountain.

Can I borrow your pot?”
What do you want with that?” a voice replied from the other side of the lake.
I want to cook Jon, who always fishes in the lake.

The lake voice agreed to the loan of his pot on condition that he got Jon’s boat. When Jon heard the first voice replying “You will get both his shoes and his boat”, he quickly left the lake never to return.

These phenomena are not limited to the wilderness. Lack of respect for the land such as irresponsible farming is also subjected to the ire of trolls. Nisser in particular have a tendency to punish lazy farmers with misfortune, as can be seen in a number of Scandinavian folktales, especially if the farmer is lacking in care or disruptive to the troll’s work for the household and farm.

 

Animal Activists

Trolls could possibly be the earliest advocates of animal rights. There are a number of folktales which reveal their care for animals and their non-tolerance of animal abuse. One such prominent illustration is the tale of “The Nisse Who Stole Fodder”. In short, a farmer lamented about not having any hay left for his farm animals when he heard an untraceable voice assuring him of hay supply. After a few days, he noticed his animals were thriving although they had no food. As it turns out, a Nisse was helping the farmer by fetching hay for his animals every night.

nisse and horse

Depiction of a Nisse lovingly feeding a horse

In some places, trolls are also believed to have the power to bless or heal animals. This is most likely fanned by stories that tell of animals (mostly cattle and sheep) under the care of trolls which yield bigger and better produce e.g. the case of cattle being enhanced after being “borrowed” by Vittra. There are even tales of people attempting to steal these animals or bargaining with trolls for the right to interbreed these animals with normal livestock to produce a more profitable breed.

 

Post-Christianity

It would not be farfetched to say that the diminishing influence of trolls is commensurate with the growth of Christianity in Scandinavia. The early Christians first adopted a strong stance and focused on demonising the trolls. However, when it became clear that the local beliefs were deeply entrenched, they changed tack. Disparagement thus became one of the main ways used by Christians to devalue the value of the old, pagan beliefs.

Slowly but surely, reverence for pagan beings such as trolls was chipped away through changing the way they were portrayed. From powerful ancient beings, they became harmless low-brow creatures. For instance, the dangerous and powerful mountain troll as depicted in the Poetic Edda (the leading source of Norse mythology) was made easy to fool by heroes such as Askeladden in subsequent folktales. As a result, trolls were systematically driven farther and farther away from the human sphere and reduced to intangible fantasy beings.

 

Conclusion

Present day depictions of trolls range from cute to off-beat to downright sinister. From neon-haired troll dolls with jewelled belly buttons to the inherently evil servants of Sauron, Dark Lord of Mordor, modern trolls have completed departed from their folkloric roots and mutated into a different kind of supernatural creature.

However, stories get told and retold and it is possible that people will eventually be reminded of the primal force of these creatures of legend. After all, trolls and other mythological creatures are in essence evidence of our ancestors’ vivid encounters with nature elementals. Some may write trolls off as products of the imagination, but always bear in mind that they be none other than a remnant of a long-lost reality.

 
Source/references:

  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Troll
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nisse_(folklore)
  • https://owlcation.com/social-sciences/troll-of-norway
  • http://users.skynet.be/fa023784/trollmoon/TrollBlog/trollblog.html
  • http://powderroom.kinja.com/a-brief-history-of-trolls-1704983550
  • Christian Demonology And Popular Mythology, Gábor Klaniczay, Éva Pócs, Eszter Csonka-Takács, CEU Press, Central European University Press, 2006
  • http://www.mythicalcreaturesguide.com/page/Huldra
  • http://www.ingebretsens.com/culture/traditions/legend-of-nisse-and-tomte
  • http://www.snowintromso.com/blog/2016/12/norwegian-trolls-and-folklore
  • http://www.hf.uio.no/ikos/english/services/knowledge/norwegian-folklore/folktales-and-legends/
  • http://users.skynet.be/fa023784/trollmoon/TrollBlog/files/category-troll-painters.html

 

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33 Responses to The Hidden Nature of Trolls

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  1. Samfoonheei on Oct 7, 2024 at 12:58 pm

    Troll is a being in Nordic folklore, described as trolls dwell in isolated areas of rocks, mountains, or caves, live together in small family units, and are rarely helpful to human beings. Trolling behaviors involve tactical aggression to incite emotional responses, which can adversely affect the target’s well-being. Troll represented aspects of life and nature that were beyond human control or understanding. They can be found all over Norway with mysterious rock formations and mountains with troll-like-shapes , sometimes possessing magic powers too. Reading this post had me get to know there’s other forest creatures that existed long ago. An eye opener reading it .
    Thank you Rinpoche for this great sharing.

  2. Bradley Kassian on Feb 18, 2022 at 11:56 pm

    Well not exactly Trolls persay the Little People found across North America could easily fit in with their legends. Somoe European Trolls/Dwarves/Gnomes also came with the earliest settlers. So finding tales around North America is quite common. IF you look in certain Scanadanavian regions where they settles like Minnisota, you’ll find lots of tales there.

    Native American
    Chaneque – Aztec
    Alux – Maya
    Geow-lud-mo-sis-eg – Maliseet
    Ircinraq – Yup’ik
    Ishigaq – Inuit
    Jogahoh – Iroquois
    Mannegishi – Cree
    Memegwesi/Memegawensi/Memengweshii/Pa’iins – Anishinaabe
    Nimerigar – Shoshone
    Nirumbee or Awwakkulé- Crow
    Nunnupi – Comanche
    Pukwudgie – Wampanoag
    Yehasuri – Catawba
    Yunwi Tsundi – Cherokee
    Canotila – Lakota[
    Popo-li or Kowi Anukasha – Choctaw

  3. S.Prathap on Mar 4, 2020 at 3:03 pm

    This is the first i learn about troll, is very interesting and i believe it exists and surprising that reading the part they help peoples who are kind to them, they are kind too and not so scary as what I think.
    Trolls are associates as beings of Scandinavian folklore.A large number of different mythological creatures continue to live on in Scandinavian folklore.They have different shapes,habitat and filthy features .Thank you for sharing this article

  4. Sharon Ong on Jun 17, 2017 at 11:07 pm

    I like the idea of trolls being guardians of nature and animals. I do believe that they exist just the way there are spirits and hungry ghosts. Just because the normal human eye cannot see these trolls doesn’t mean that they do not exist.

    This post reminds me very much of the Malaysian version of “Orang Bunian” who are said to look like indigenous people but are normally invisible. When appeased, they can grant wishes like increase of wealth and good business. But when they or their homes are disturbed, they may retaliate. This is probably why there have been many cases of people getting lost in jungles as Orang Bunian are believed to make people confused and are unable to find their way out of the jungle.

    Whether one believes in their existence or not, it is always a good idea to be mindful of one’s actions especially when out in nature, like mountains, jungles, rivers and lakes.

  5. Joy on Jun 17, 2017 at 5:39 pm

    After reading this story about trolls, I definitely believe in them and I do think that they exist because stories are usually based on sightings and experiences. I am glad they have some positive characters and not just negative one. What stood out was that they are natural protectors of the environment and also animal activists. This is what I like about them. I suppose if you give them respect and respect their environment, they will not harm you and disturb and can even help you, like the story of Nisse helping the farmer fetch hay for his animals!

    I believe they are just like us, humans, some are good and some are bad. But in general if we keep the environment clean and respect the land, they would not harm us and we can all co-exist. I guess they slowly disappear like what the article said when the Christianity or the Church started their influence to dominate and control people by getting them converted and to abandon their pagan beliefs. Not only do they ask them to abandon it, they even condemn them and create a misconception that they are all demonic, which I think is sad and untrue as we can read from the stories above.

  6. Wah Ying on Jun 17, 2017 at 5:19 pm

    Thank you for this interesting post on Trolls. I always amazed at supernatural beings like tree spirits, forest spirits, mountain spirits and so forth mentioned in folklore and animation movies by Hayao Miyazaki especially. I am not sure they exist or not but I am not totally do not believe some supernatural beings are just made up. However, what we not able to witness by our own eyes do not mean they never exist. Rinpoche’s blog posts on supernatural beings and things do open up my mind.

    Legends or stories on trolls told in this post are indeed interesting to read on; and I found they are closely connected to nature, live in the wild. If we believe in there are beings live in the wild, may be they have different appearances and legends come with them for different culture around the world, one would be more alert and have more “respect” to our Mother Earth, more humble and not to think that human owns and can manipulate the nature as we wish. Thanks for the blog post. I enjoy it.

  7. Stella Cheang on Jun 16, 2017 at 9:23 pm

    This is an interesting article that opens my eyes to a forest creature that is ascribed with an ambivalent characteristic. They are fiercely loyal to what they believe in, but at the same time, they eluded the standard humanistic values, which is cunning and brutal depending which folklores they appeared in. Which reminds me of the other mystical creature, Yeti, who exist in the Himalayans, Russia, Mongolia USA, Canada and other countries. It goes to show that these mystical creatures if they exist, they operate with a different set of values and principles. To co-exist in harmony, it is necessary for us to be attentive to their survival traits, values, and principles so that we do not offend them unnecessarily.

  8. justin on Jun 16, 2017 at 12:39 am

    For me trolls exists and i still believe that there are a lot of things in nature that we still do not know about our mother earth. Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this article about Trolls, which previously unheard of for me. I have heard of Orge etc. but not trolls before. It is beyond my imagination of the nature of trolls. Thank you again.

  9. Raj Kumar on Jun 14, 2017 at 8:57 am

    Good morning Dear Rinpoche?
    And Dear all ?
    First of all thank you so much for this story about trolls,
    I am really not know so much about trolls,

    But This is a very interesting article about trolls to read
    I really doing enjoying to reading about this trolls story.
    Thank you.
    With folded hands
    Raj Kumar.

  10. Pastor Antoinette on Jun 14, 2017 at 8:13 am

    This is a very interesting article. I did not know very much about trolls except the trolls in Walter Moers fantasy books.

    I like the idea that the trolls are protecting the forests and nature and also feeding the animals like in winter. It reminds me of the nagas and that we should be respectful when we are in the forest and near lakes. Here is the link for more information on nagas: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/apology-to-the-naga-realm.html

  11. Mingwen on Jun 14, 2017 at 7:44 am

    Never say never!

    We have yet to fully discovered the Earth, things are happening without our acknowledgment. No way for us to reject and firmly say certain things do not exist in Earth.

    Be open and we will receive more , but wr should always stay curious and check out things

  12. Tek Lee on Jun 14, 2017 at 3:58 am

    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this article. Wow, it has so many types of Troll. The troll I have in mind is the one that I first saw in movie Lord Of The Rings. They are gigantic, grey in colour, slow in movement, and I still remember one of them stabbed a spear on Frodo’s chest 🙂 I thought they were only appear in movie and some sci-fi novel.
    After reading this article, it is actually quite commonly believe and folklore in the Scandinavian, even in Asian countries like Japan and Philippines. But unlike Big Foot, it doesn’t have any picture or video that support its existence, maybe their time was way much earlier than big foot. It makes it sound like myth. But it’s interesting to know they are so many types of troll 🙂

  13. June Kang on Jun 14, 2017 at 2:18 am

    Is interesting to visit Tsemrinpoche.com. You can always find article talking about others beings. Lots of us will not purposely going to search and learn all this but this website always make us so easy to access to learn more of others things besides Buddhism.

    This is the first i learn about troll, is very interesting and i believe it exists and surprising that reading the part they help peoples who are kind to them, they are kind too and not so scary as what I think.

    Thank you for sharing.

  14. Pastor Albert on Jun 14, 2017 at 2:13 am

    Another being that we have long heard but never seen before, all these beings has been told since hundreds of years ago, after so many generations, how many percent of the stories are still accurate? Or has it been changed?

    But for me, I do believe about there are other beings in this planet that we have not seen or they are actually much more intelligent than human, whether are they same as the pictures above or not I have no idea, but they definitely exist.

  15. Pastor Chia on Jun 14, 2017 at 1:57 am

    This is my first time encounter the troll history and background from this article.Thank you for sharing all the interesting stories. Just like those hidden creature in this world. I do beliave their existance and be kind to them. What i like about troll story is they are also protector for enviroment and care for animal. Which make me not fell bad about this creature nature even they stay in the dark side. Is better for the mainkind to be more concesious and respect all the living being exitance.

  16. Andrea Lai on Jun 14, 2017 at 12:39 am

    My first knowledge of troll was when I’m in searching for a present to my sister. I stumbled upon this tiny cute little toy with big round eyes, big button nose, a broad sweet smile and with an uprise hair with various colors. Back then, so little that I know.

    After reading this article, well, it has broadened up my horizon. From my understanding in this article, I think that troll could be have similarity like a naga as what been explained that if trolls been landed in mountain, they will be called mountain trolls, if forest, they will be called as forest trolls or forest nymphs. As example in the illustration of Huldra, a female troll as a form of beautiful human being, lure men who are ignorance with the purpose to prevent them from destroying their living environment, and reward those who show respect to her. Overall, trolls are compassionate and good nature being who wanted to be respected. Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this article.

  17. nicholas on Jun 14, 2017 at 12:17 am

    I first hear about trolls was from some tales in a story book. When I read about them from this articles it really so much to tell from various part of the world. There are many more living beings that we have not encountered but it doesn’t mean they don’t exist. I believe in their existence and what important is respect.

    We are not the only living being here and we all share the same place here in the universe and stay harmony and being compassion is key for peace.

  18. Vivian Ong on Jun 14, 2017 at 12:15 am

    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this article. It is interesting to know that there are many types of trolls in every part of the globe. I’m not so sure about Malaysia, but so far from my childhood until now I have not heard anything about trolls in Malaysia. The trolls that we read or watch is the ogre and hobbit (if hobbits are considered trolls).

    With folded palms,
    Vivian

  19. Pastor Henry Ooi on Jun 13, 2017 at 11:43 pm

    Whether trolls or such creatures of similar descriptions exist or not, these tales told here are pretty interesting and entertaining. I guess every country has their own fairy tale or story told at camp fires, or during festivals especially for the children’s entertainment. Similarly, in Malaysia we do have our local stories. I’m not doubting their existence, just respectful of nature and those unseen beings, and tread with care.

  20. Esther Goh on Jun 13, 2017 at 11:13 pm

    Thank you Rinpoche for this very interesting article about Trolls. In the past I had always envisioned Trolls to be very mean ugly looking creatures as depicted in the story books. I was intrigued to learn that they come in different forms and demeanor. They possessed magical powers and can be kind and helpful if treated with respect. After reading this article I am convinced they did exist.

  21. Eric kksiow on Jun 13, 2017 at 10:37 pm

    I do believed it’s exist, i always wish to see “Them” ( Trolls or BigFoot ) and hope to communicate with them too.

    Thank you for the research of Trolls.

  22. pammie yap on Jun 12, 2017 at 10:34 pm

    I first came across the word troll, through reading. I love reading books of fantasy genre. I’d read and imagine how they’d look like. In the series of books that I have come across, trolls were often depicted as small notorious creatures and that was it. I was surprised to read of the different types of trolls in this post. That is why I find it wonderful to be able to see things at different perspective/view and not fixed. So many types of trolls! I believe that all beings want respect therefore the same for the trolls. Quite scary to read about the things they’d do to others for being disrespected. However, I like the part where they help the farmers and people who are kind to them and how they take good care of nature. Really interesting!

  23. Echeah on May 8, 2017 at 1:31 am

    The only trolls I’m familiar with are those lurking on the internet, LOL. Maybe they were real trolls in their previous lives, no joke! They come back this life to do what they do best, troll us on social media! I wonder why people invest so much time and energy to do that non-stop. They really must have some kind of past life imprint.

  24. Anne Ong on May 7, 2017 at 9:32 pm

    This is a very interesting topic about Trolls. Have watched the amination version of Trolls on dvd during Chinese New Year at Tek Lee’s parents house. It was very colorful and musical type. And didn’t there is so much background and history about Trolls. Thank you Rinpoche for this interesting folk tales about Trolls. It’s very educational.

  25. Jacinta Goh on May 7, 2017 at 9:18 pm

    I do not have any interest in these ‘Trolls’ thing, not until one day when Rinpoche posted that we should placed trolls statue/ sculpture at home as a gesture to invite them to stay and let them know that we are here for good. I kept thinking, perhaps it’s true that they exist! However, they are mostly depicted as evil in most stories, just like what this article has shared. To know that they actually have healing abilities, this might be a good reason to make friends with them. I wonder whether they are one of the elementals that have gone? Mentioned in one of the teachings about why Rain dances didn’t work, or perhaps I didn’t get the meaning correctly.

    Thank you Rinpoche for this article .

  26. Edwin Tan on May 2, 2017 at 4:41 pm

    Thank you for the well-researched and insightful article on trolls.

    As long as we don’t ever meet one, we will never know if they are beautiful and kind, or ugly and nasty.

    But if they are environment and animal activists and protectors.. I believe they are good-natured.

    With the advancement of technology, many depictions of trolls can be seen on the big screen, from Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings ugly trolls, to singing, kind and helpful trolls in Trolls movie.. I think even smurfs might be early adaptations of trolls or dwarves.

    I really learned a lot more from the article.

    Thank you.

  27. Paul Yap on Apr 30, 2017 at 10:28 pm

    I always believes the existence of mythical creatures. There are many unknown in the vast universe, different dimension and existence. The Trolls character inside the movie “Lord Of The Ring” were mostly huge and ugly, whereas Nisse were cute and small. Nisse reminded me the 7 dwarfs of snow white, which is cute and kind too.

  28. Pastor David Lai on Apr 29, 2017 at 9:53 pm

    This is indeed a very well researched article on Trolls. I love it very much and I read it with much relish. I found female trolls to be particularly interesting because they are somewhat different from their male counterpart. Female trolls are beautiful, seductresses and with a tail of a fox. This is somewhat reminiscent of the Chinese fox-spirit that seduces men.

    There are plenty of stories of fox spirits in Chinese folklore and they go somewhat along the lines of the western female troll. However, in the Chinese folk lore – they are really fox spirits in disguise to play trick or lure men to their doom. On the other hand, the female western troll seduces men in order to distract and destroy kilns and factories that processes wood from the forests. Whatever it is, there is this similarity.

    In general, I really like how trolls are portrayed to be guardians of the forests and protector of animals. It’s nice and probably closer to the truth that time and sceptical modern man has denied for too long.

  29. wan wai meng on Apr 29, 2017 at 5:06 pm

    When I played Dungeons and Dragons, when I was wee lad, Trolls were monsters that liked to wait in bridges, sometimes they could be found in caves toll. So they are quite known to ambush adventurers. And trolls had abilities to regenerate the only way you could have stopped it regeneration is using fire. So trolls to me playing the game, were monsters to be overcome and to take over their treasures because, of their habits of waylaying adventurers, they usually had a good horde of treasures.

    Really enjoyed reading this long piece on Trolls.

  30. Fong on Apr 29, 2017 at 1:12 am

    Thank you, for ever so delightful a story about trolls. Obviously, there’s a lot more to trolls than Shrek.

    It’s interesting there are kind trolls as well as very nasty trolls. Be it products of vivid imaginations of ancients or being of another time and realm, we have to treat them warily. After all, they have acquired a not so pretty reputation since time immemorial.

  31. Lim Han Nee on Apr 28, 2017 at 10:28 pm

    Thank you Rinpoche for this blogpost that gives an interesting and extensive account of trolls, their origin and their nature, and of the different kinds of trolls. They are not only confined to Scandinavian countries, although they feature mainly in the culture and folklore of Scandinavian countries.

    Although they did have some negative traits, they had not been inherently evil in legends and stories of them in earlier times. Once upon a time, they were revered as powerful mythical creatures, who were very much part of the mountains, forests and bridges of ancient ancestral lands.

    Some trolls even possessed magical powers.Generally, if you are respectful to them, they are nice to you. They return disrespect with nastiness. The bigger sized trolls are supposed to have a lower intellectual level. It is sad to read the stories of how they are tricked into killing themselves or being killed. They are essentially beings that are not out to harm,but if they are offended they will wreak havoc.

    Some trolls are believed to be fiercely protective of nature and the forests and to care much for animals. in fact, they are often portrayed as nature spirits who would defend the forest against human greed. There are stories of trolls taking action against those humans who disrespect or disturb nature. Trolls could possibly be the earliest advocates of animal rights! We can see this in a number of folk-tales that tell of their care for animals and their intolerance of animal abuse.

    It is sad to see that the earlier respect and reverence for pagan beings like trolls are being chipped away, as can be seen in the way they are being portrayed in later stories . Trolls are now disparaged: from being powerful and dangerous mountain beings in myths of old, they are now relegated to being depicted as low-brow creatures who are easily fooled and tricked. They are being reduced into mere beings of fantasy.

  32. Samfoonheei on Apr 28, 2017 at 3:37 pm

    Trolls are assiociates as beings of Scandinavian folklore.A large number of different mythological creatures continue to live on in Scandinavian folklore.They have different shapes,habitat and filthy features . There are also numerous tales of trolls told and retold.Trolls are also believed to have the magigal powers, which were folktales ,posses capabilities that are beyond human .What ever it was a remnant of a long-lost reality for sure. I do believe that there’s a very high chance trolls had existed in the past.
    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing ,i do enjoyed all the stories in these article even though it just folk tales.

    • Anne Ong on Apr 29, 2017 at 5:32 pm

      Hello Samfoonheei,

      I’m very glad to hear you enjoyed all the stories in this article. And I noticed you are also very active and enthusiastic in blog comments. Do try to keep up the good work. Reading Rinpoche’s blog posts really helps to build up our knowledge. Thank you very much for your comments.

      Anne Ong.

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KECHARA FOREST RETREAT PROGRESS UPDATES

Here is the latest news and pictorial updates, as it happens, of our upcoming forest retreat project.

The Kechara Forest Retreat is a unique holistic retreat centre focused on the total wellness of body, mind and spirit. This is a place where families and individuals will find peace, nourishment and inspiration in a natural forest environment. At Kechara Forest Retreat, we are committed to give back to society through instilling the next generation with universal positive values such as kindness and compassion.

For more information, please read here (english), here (chinese), or the official site: retreat.kechara.com.

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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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I must thank my dharma blog team who are great assets to me, Kechara and growth of dharma in this wonderful region. I am honoured and thrilled to work with them. I really am. Maybe I don't say it enough to them, but I am saying it now. I APPRECIATE THESE GUYS VERY MUCH!

Tsem Rinpoche

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The Unknown

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

Photos On The Go

Click on the images to view the bigger version. And scroll down and click on "View All Photos" to view more images.
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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CHAT PICTURES

5 June 2025 we had our weekly Swift Return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche this evening. Kechara Kuantan Study Group...Sam
5 days 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
1 week 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.
1 week 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.
1 week 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
2 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.
2 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
2 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
3 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
3 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.
4 weeks ago
Last but not least, group photo take. after puja and incense offerings completed. Happy Wesak's Day to all. 12th May 2025. Uploaded by Jacinta.
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
4 weeks ago
Puja started at 2 pm with Pastor Patsy giving Dharma talk and presenting 8 auspicious on the altar. What a great way to start the puja! May Rinpoche return swiftly, witnessing the Dharma growth in Penang, a northern state, West of Malaysia. Uploaded by Jacinta
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
4 weeks ago
There are visitors who came specifically to pay homage to H. E. Tsem Tulku Rinpoche as well as our members arriving for the puja. Uploaded by Jacinta
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
4 weeks ago
Mostly our relatives and members of the group came to pay homage to Buddha during the day. Generating much merits on Wesak's Day. Uploaded by Jacinta
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.
4 weeks ago
Offerings are made on all altars. It was being decorated delicately by the members. Wesak's Day Celebration at Penang Dorje Shugden on 12th May (Mon). Uploaded by Jacinta.
Group's photo after preparation for Wesak has completed. Taken on 11th May @ Penang Dorje Shugden Temple. Uploaded by Jacinta
4 weeks 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
4 weeks 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
4 weeks 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
1 month 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.
1 month 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
1 month 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
1 month 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)
Come on, Smile! A quick and easy way to make others happy instantly before we start our puja today. 5th April, 2025 Dorje Shugden puja at Penang chapel. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Come on, Smile! A quick and easy way to make others happy instantly before we start our puja today. 5th April, 2025 Dorje Shugden puja at Penang chapel. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Today's flower offerings @5th April, 2025. Dorje Shugden weekly puja at Kechara Penang Chapel at No 49, Jalan Seang Tek. Uploaded by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Today's flower offerings @5th April, 2025. Dorje Shugden weekly puja at Kechara Penang Chapel at No 49, Jalan Seang Tek. Uploaded by Jacinta.
Here are some of the offerings to the Buddha @ 5th April, 2025. Uploaded by Jacinta
2 months ago
Here are some of the offerings to the Buddha @ 5th April, 2025. Uploaded by Jacinta
Mdm.Betty & Mr. Teo came very early for setting up & cleaning. Dorje Shugden puja @every Saturday 3pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Mdm.Betty & Mr. Teo came very early for setting up & cleaning. Dorje Shugden puja @every Saturday 3pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
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Dorje Shugden
Click to watch my talk about Dorje Shugden....