Wat Phra Dhammakaya: World’s Largest Temple

Mar 31, 2018 | Views: 9,090

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“When the mind of each person in this world knows true peace, the world will know peace. When the mind is peaceful it will start to see the true cause of peace, and at the same time the true cause of war. With this clarity, we can finally put an end to conflict, greed, and anger and usher in an era of peace. Once we know peace for ourselves, it will be reflected in our thoughts, our speech and in our actions. Love and good intention for mankind will arise and we will become the center of peace for people all around like the sun shining warm light to big and small stars, both near and far.”

~ Luang Por Dhammajayo

Maechi Chandra Khonnokyoong is one of the founders of Wat Phra Dhammakaya

Maechi Chandra Khonnokyoong, one of the founders of Wat Phra Dhammakaya

Wat Phra Dhammakaya, the world’s largest Buddhist temple, is located in the district of Klong Luang, Pathum Thani Province, just north of Bangkok, Thailand. The grand complex was founded by the maechi (Buddhist nun) Chandra Khonnokyoong and a monk, Luang Por Dhammajayo. They started the Dhammakaya Movement and it has become the fastest-growing Buddhist tradition in Thailand.

The massive temple is built on 77 acres of land donated by a kind sponsor, Lady Prayad Pattayapongsavisuttatibodi, on her birthday. The land was originally a huge rice field without a single tree or building in sight.

“From nothing… to a large tract of land
From a large desolate field… to a graceful Buddhist temple
From one monk… to tens, to hundreds, to thousands and counting
From a hundred followers… to thousands, ten thousands, hundred thousands, and millions in the future.”

http://en.dhammakaya.net/about/dhammakaya-temple/

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Wat Phra Dhammakaya stresses the revival of traditional Buddhist values by using modern methods and technology. For example, they propagate Dharma via a satellite television station, their university offers distance learning courses on Buddhism, and they use modern management methods to help with temple operations.

Although the use of modern technology has created some controversy, the Dhammakaya movement continues to grow and plays an increasingly significant role in the preservation and propagation of Thai Buddhism. Edward Irons, a Buddhist scholar, has described Dhammakaya as “the face of modern Thai Buddhism”.

The Dhammakaya Cetiya symbolises world peace through inner peace. It represents unity and love for the whole world. The dome-shaped Cetiya (stupa) is the largest venue for mass Buddhist prayer events and meditation

The Dhammakaya Cetiya symbolises world peace through inner peace. It represents unity and love for the whole world. The dome-shaped cetiya (stupa) is the world’s largest venue for mass Buddhist prayer events and meditation.

The pagoda of the Dhammakaya Cetiya has more than one million golden Buddhas. Each Buddha statue actually belongs to someone who donated towards the building of the temple with their names inscribed at the base. It symbolises world peace and an indication that it is not a mission of just one person but it requires the help of everyone.

The pagoda of the Dhammakaya Cetiya has more than one million golden Buddhas, symbolising world peace and the fact that achieving it is not a single individual’s mission but one that requires the help of all. Each Buddha statue represents a donor who contributed towards the building of the temple and their names are inscribed at the base of their statue.

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History

The Great Master Phramongkolthepmuni or Luang Pu Sodh Candasaro started the Dhammakaya meditation tradition or Vijja Dhammakaya

The Great Master Phramongkolthepmuni or Luang Pu Sodh Candasaro who started the Dhammakaya meditation tradition or Vijja Dhammakaya

The Great Master Phramongkolthepmuni or Luang Pu Sodh Candasaro started the Dhammakaya meditation tradition or Vijja Dhammakaya in the early 20th Century. After his passing in 1959, Maechi Chand Khonnokyoong carried on the lineage, teaching Dhammakaya meditation to the next generation at Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen temple.

In 1963, a university student by the name of Chaiyabun Sutthiphon came to Wat Paknam to learn meditation. He was ordained in 1969 and given the Dharma name Phra Dhammajayo. Wat Paknam continued to grow in popularity as an ideal venue and environment in which to learn meditation. Eventually, the temple became too small to accommodate the influx of students.

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On 20th February 1970, the day of Magha Puja, Maechi Chandra Khonnokyoong, Phra Dhammajayo and their followers began building a meditation centre at 196-rai and Wat Phra Dhammakaya came into being. Phra Dhammajayo was appointed the abbot of the temple and became known as Luang Por Dhammajayo. His student, Pongsawat, became deputy abbot.

The construction of the temple was not easy. All the devoted Buddhists had was 3,200 baht (USD 101) when they first started, and it felt as if they would have to build the centre with their bare hands. Many expressed their doubts to Maechi Chandra Khonnokyoong, the Master Nun at the time.

When they first started, it felt as if they would have to build the centre with their bare hands

When the building of Wat Phra Dhammakaya first started, the students felt as if they would have to build it with their bare hands.

In reply, she asked,

“What is the cost of raising just one truly good person with morals and dedication to Buddhism?”

A disciple responded,

“If you spent 100 million, there may be a small chance to get one that is good…”

The Master Nun then replied,

“I have 11 truly good people sitting in front of me today, so I now have at least 1,000 million baht in the budget. I will build this place.”

Thus, it began. While Wat Phra Dhammakaya meditation centre was under construction, meditation classes continued at other locations. People came to know about the temple and donations started to pour in as students experienced positive results from their meditation.

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Once the temple was completed, more people started enrolling in meditation and Dharma classes. Wat Phra Dhammakaya was originally intended to be a satellite meditation centre of Wat Paknam but by 1977, it had become an official temple.

The temple emphasises prosperity and modernity as well as personal development and growth. This made it very relatable and attractive to modern middle-class Thais. Its popularity continued to grow in the 1980s, especially during the Asian economic boom.

During major Buddhist festivals, the temple easily attracted up to 50,000 people. Soon, even the 77 acres of land began to feel too small to accommodate everyone, especially during huge Buddhist events.

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The temple had to expand, and land around the complex was acquired to accommodate more buildings to serve the growing number of faithful. Significant expansion started in 1984 and, in 1992, the temple branched out internationally with centres in the United States, Taiwan and Japan.

The design of each building in Wat Phra Dhammakaya is simple, strong and non-luxurious. It is built to maximise its benefits and usage while being cost-efficient. The temple’s success is a collective achievement of every monk, novice and devotee who faithfully gave their time and energy day in and day out, against all odds to build the massive temple to serve all sentient beings.

Their faith, determination and patience paid off when their dream of a sanctuary of peace to spread the Buddha’s teachings became a reality — what we see today, the Dhammakaya Temple.

Building around the Dhammakaya Cetiya consist of offices for various temple projects located on two floors. In total there are 32 office blocks. Moat is created around the building to help absorb the heat and beautify its surroundings.

The buildings around the Dhammakaya Cetiya consist of offices for various temple projects located on two floors. In total there are 32 office blocks. A moat was created around the building to help absorb the heat and beautify the surroundings.

 

The Wat Phra Dhammakaya Building

Wat Phra Dhammakaya was built based on the four factors taught by Lord Buddha for contributing to the cultivation and development of virtues:

  1. Pleasant location
  2. Pleasant food
  3. Pleasant people
  4. Pleasant Dhamma

Their motto is “building a true temple, training true monks and promoting people to be truly virtuous.”

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The temple may be situated in the middle of the city but once you step into its grounds, you will feel a sense of peace. The maintenance and cleanliness of the temple is managed by the resident sangha and lay community who live on the temple grounds. Devoting time and energy to the wellbeing of virtuous locations is considered a practice of purifying one’s mind.

Monks ordained at the Dhammakaya Temple live in simple, orderly accommodation that has been set up specially for this purpose. The residential area is built in a serene forest environment which is perfect for meditation.

These residences consist of small, self-sustaining cottages with space for meditation, sleep, and a small storage area for personal belongings. This basic approach to existence discourages clutter, and comfort is avoided as it is considered a luxury. It is built in this way to allow the monks to focus, dedicate their time to studying the Dharma and doing their meditation practices without distractions.

The spacious dining hall in Wat Phra Dhammakaya is built to accomodat thousands. It is frequently used to welcome visiting monks and novices and a venue for meetings for the sangha members.

The spacious dining hall in Wat Phra Dhammakaya is built to accommodate thousands. It is frequently used to welcome visiting monks and novices and is also a venue for Sangha meetings.

The kitchen in Wat Phra Dhammakaya is built to feed everyone who sets foot in the temple to learn Buddhism. The temple does all it can to allay unnecessary distractions like concerns about food in order to help adherents focus better in their search for inner peace through practice.

The Master Nun has a motto that has been passed down to her disciples.

“If 100 people come to the temple, we will feed 100 people. If one million people come, we will feed one million people.”

Lay people would often come to the dinning hall to make their offerings of food and other necessities to the sangha.

Lay devotees often come to the dining hall to offer food and other necessities to the Sangha.

 

Cleanliness and Order

Inspired by Master Nun Maechi Chandra’s teachings, Abbot Luang Por Dhammajayo transformed the Dhammakaya meditation method into “an entire guide of living” (according to religious studies scholar Justin McDaniel) emphasising cleanliness, orderliness and quiet. They are considered a moral practice as well as a way to support one’s meditation. In anthropologist Jim Taylor’s own words, the temple “eschews disorder.”

Ceremonies are held on Sundays instead of the traditional lunar calendar days based on Uposatha (Buddhist day of observance, in existence from the Buddha’s time). Traditional noisy temple festivals are not held at Wat Phra Dhammakaya.

Visiting laypeople are required to wear white. Smoking, drinking, flirting, fortune-telling, animals and newspapers are strictly prohibited within the temple grounds.

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Complimentary bus services from strategic locations provide convenient transport to the temple complex. There is a Sunday school and nursery on the grounds so parents can participate in meditation sessions in the Great Sapha Dhammakaya Hall without interruptions.

There are many activities catered to children and young people of all ages. The temple also conducts classes that teach traditional Thai etiquette. All practitioners are encouraged to keep things clean and tidy, and there are regular communal cleaning activities.

The smallest and most menial work is viewed as work that is valuable and fruitful. One can witness Wat Phra Dhammakaya’s discipline and order through their well-organised ceremonies that are performed on a grand scale but without losing attention to detail.

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Layout of Wat Phra Dhammakaya

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Minimalistic yet functional, Wat Phra Dhammakaya is clean and orderly with several pristine gardens accenting the futuristic-looking buildings. The temple grounds are divided into three main areas:

  1. The Buddha residence area: This includes the Ubosot (ordination hall) and the monks’ residence
  2. The Dhamma residence area: This includes the teaching areas and space where ceremonies are held, where laypeople get involved
  3. The Sangha residence area: Areas for monastic ceremonies

Although these same three areas can be found in other temples, Wat Phra Dhammakaya is unique because most of its space is allocated for Dharma residences. It provides accommodation for local as well as international visitors and devotees who come to attend the temple’s activities.

 

Significant Buildings

 

The Ubosot

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The Ubosot or Chapel was designed based on Wat Benchamabophit. Its design is unique in Thailand as it adopts clean lines and a minimalist concept, free from demanding maintenance. It is a place for peaceful contemplations surrounded by a man-made forest. There is also a lake near the Ubosot. It was completed in 1982 and in 1998, it was awarded an honourable mention by the Association of Siamese Architects (ASA).

Inside the Ubosot, visitors will find a simple yet elegant Buddha image crafted in a modern style as opposed to the traditional Thai style. Observant visitors will note that the Buddha’s top knot is in the shape of a lotus bud. The rest of the Buddha image follows the traditional 32 marks of an Enlightened Being based on the scriptures.

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“The chapel was built with great, detail oriented, care to ensure that the most important building of the whole temple is as perfect, while being economical, as possible.

~ Wat Phra Dhammakaya

Even the concrete used to build the chapel was carefully selected to be of the highest grade and the mix was approved by a team of specialists. The sand used in the construction was taken from the coastal dunes, which were then specially transported using barges. The gravel was hand-selected as it had to be the whitest and purest, and the same size as a grain of rice. These painstaking detailed processes were all done by the temple’s devoted volunteers.

In December 1977, the first stone for the foundation was officially laid by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on behalf of His Majesty the King of Thailand.

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The Memorial Hall of Maechi Chandra

The Memorial Hall of the Master Nun Maechi Chandra Khonnokyoong is a chapel shaped like a hexagonal pyramid that stands in the middle of a tranquil pond. The two-storey building was built in 2003 from gold tinted plate glass, and stands 95 feet high.

Maechi Chandra was the founder of Wat Phra Dhammakaya who showed great generosity in her lifetime by executing the building of the temple. She was a living example of giving and she believed that this quality is a testament to the depth of our humanity and capacity for self-transcendence.

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Inside the memorial hall, on the first floor is a museum that showcases Maechi Chandra’s virtuous charitable works, religious contributions and her personal items that tell us a little about who she was as a meditator, teacher and founder of Dhammakaya.

Her devoted students also created a pure golden statue in her likeness. The statue is placed on the second floor together with her relics. The second floor is also a meditation space.

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When Maechi Chandra was alive, she taught the importance of cleanliness and tidiness, and how these are virtues that relate to the purification of our mind. She personified purity and perfection. A candle tower was built near the chapel as a memorial to Maechi Chandra. Every night it is lit in honour of her purity and virtuous heart.

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Her cremation on 3rd February 2002 was attended by representatives from 30,000 temples all over Thailand, which numbered around 10,000 monks and 200,000 lay supporters.

 

The Memorial Hall of Phramongkolthepmuni

The Memorial Hall of Phramongkolthepmuni is located just opposite Wat Phra Dhammakaya’s main entrance. The shrine is shaped like a dome and is built on a circular base symbolising the spreading of the Dharma. This great memorial hall was built in honour of the highly revered monk Phramongkolthepmuni in 2002.

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Known as the abbot of Wat Paknam, Ven. Phramongkolthepmuni led many to explore the purpose of life and the path to discover inner peace and self-sustaining happiness through the idea that material and spiritual success can be brought about by stillness of the mind.

This shrine with state-of-the-art temperature control has a stone altar with a solid gold statue of Ven. Phramongkolthepmuni, seven meditation rooms and a chapel with the capacity to seat 1,500. In 1994, around 100,000 monks and disciples cast the statue in solid gold.

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Apart from showing devotion to Ven. Phramongkolthepmuni, the gold statue also represents the propagation of knowledge that Dhammakaya, or the body of Enlightenment, is present in every being and achievable by people of all races and religious beliefs. Furthermore, the centre of the body is the home of the human mind where Enlightenment can occur in the midst of stillness.

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Key Milestones

  • 1970: Temple construction began on 77 acres of land
  • 1972: The first Monk Ordination Program
  • 1975: Construction of temple completed
  • 1976: The first Kathina Robe Offering Ceremony
  • 1982: The first Meditation Retreat; the first Buddhist Club and National Ethical Contest was held
  • 1982: The Main Chapel building was completed
  • 1984-1988: The expansion of the temple from 77 acres to 791 acres
  • 1992: The First International Dhammakaya Centre was established
  • 1995: Construction of the Dhammakaya Cetiya began
  • 1996: Construction of the Sapha Dhammakaya began
  • 2002: Construction of other major buildings e.g. the Dining Hall and the Master Nun’s Memorial Hall began
  • 2003: Wat Phra Dhammakaya’s first DMC Broadcast
  • 2003: The construction of the Meditation Stadium began and the Dhammakaya Open University (DOU) was established
  • 2004: The temple won the WHO’s No Alcohol, No Tobacco Award
  • 2006: The first International meditation retreat (The Middle Way Meditation Program) started
  • 2007: The first World-PEC International Ethical Contest was held
  • 2008: The first V-Star festival was held, youth activities included a training course in Buddhist practice
  • 2010: 1 Million Ladies Ordination and the launching of mass ordination programs for 100,000 monks
  • 2012: The first Dhammachai Dhutanga (Pilgrimage) on the Path of the Great Master event was held. It won the Guinness World Record for “Longest Journey Walking on Flower Petals

 

The Novice Monk Program

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“The life of a householder is a narrow path which attracts dust.
The ordained life is a spacious path.”

~ The Lord Buddha

Thailand’s Buddhist heritage has shaped its culture for millennia and is ingrained into the soul of the nation. Humble thoughts and traditions designed to instil sound moral values in society continue to guide the Thai people. One of the most important of these is the ordinations of monks.

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The Importance of Ordination

In Buddhism, the monk ordination process is a path to purification. It is not simply the physical act of shaving one’s head and wearing monk robes, but the spiritual experience of training, practice and embodiment of the Dharma as expounded by Lord Buddha.

To be ordained as a Buddhist monk, one must be at least 20 years of age. Those under the age of 20 will be ordained as a novice. An ordained monk lives in accordance with 227 precepts which are the rules, regulations, guidelines, lineages, and traditions that direct the Sangha to purification and spiritual growth. Lord Buddha himself said that the precepts are one’s teacher and he formulated them to lead individuals onto the right path to attain the Dharma he preached. At the very minimum, individuals guided by these precepts will be liberated from the mundane.

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The precepts help strengthen an individual’s determination to face challenges with mindfulness, patience and by understanding life’s purpose. They shape the individual’s future regardless of whether they choose to remain ordained or to revert to being a layperson at the end of the novice ordination program. The experience and knowledge gained during the program will only benefit and does not go to waste. Holding true to the precepts allows the individual to study the Dharma theoretically as well as practically, a process which develops the mind to attain higher levels, reveals truth and goodness, and helps us reach our spiritual goals and realise the truth of life.

During the ordination ritual, individuals officially become a follower of the Three Jewels and also become a part of them – the Sangha jewel. Becoming ordained means the individual chooses to take the initial step towards living life correctly, freeing themselves from day-to-day burdens. The ordained lifestyle is simple with minimal necessities like food and clothing. In this manner, ordained individuals will have more time to gain knowledge and wisdom, as well as have a greater understanding of the world.

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Duties and Responsibilities of Monks

The sole purpose of ordination is to free oneself from tedious worldly commitments and worries in order to focus on meditation and transforming the mind towards liberation and Nirvana. The Buddha clearly specified that monks must fulfil all required and recommended duties based on these tenets:

  • Asking for Alms
  • Temple Cleaning
  • Confession
  • Chanting and Meditation
  • Reflection
  • Caring for the Preceptor
  • Exercise and Self-Maintenance
  • Dharma and Monastic Studies
  • Caring for Temple Property
  • Behaviour Worthy of Respect

 

International Dhammadayada Ordination Programme

When Buddhist influence on daily life waned in Thailand in the 1990s as a result of modernisation and technological advancements, groups of monks came together to spread Lord Buddha’s teachings.

Before the programme began, the official records of the National Office of Buddhism showed that there were 5,937 deserted temples in Thailand as of 1st June 2009. Fewer people were entering the monkhood due to secular commitments, and many who did spent less than a month as monks. This was insufficient time to train themselves or to study Dharma profoundly.

In addition, very few employers allowed their employees to take a three-month leave of absence from work to become ordained during the Rains Retreat period. Hence, there were very few ordained monks to propagate the Buddha’s teachings, resulting in a critical situation for Thai Buddhism.

In order to create a new generation of monks, Wat Phra Dhammakaya held a mass ordination of 7,000 monks from 7,000 villages throughout Thailand in the year 2552 B.E. (2009). Over 10,000 people showed interest in participating. The following year, a 100,000 mass ordination was conducted where 70,000 villages participated twice a year, once in summer and the other during the Rains Retreat season.

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Today, many are interested to join the programme. They are assigned to different temples in their hometowns, resulting in fewer deserted temples.

This project has the support of the entire Sangha Community, the Committee on Education, Religion, Arts and Culture Group, and the House of Representatives along with many more national organisations.

Read more about Nick Keomahavong’s experience at Wat Phra Dhammakaya’s International Dhammadayada Ordination Programme here: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/inspiration-worthy-words/why-i-left-everything-to-become-a-buddhist-monk.html

 

The Ordination Ceremony

In general, the ordination ceremony is conducted according to the following stages and includes a rehearsal for participants to familiarise themselves with the ordination process.

Participants are required to shave their heads, beards and eyebrows, cut their fingernails and toenails, and dress smartly. They receive a bouquet of three lotuses, a candle and incense which they clasp between their palms in a gesture of prayer. Forming a line, participants walk to the north side of the chapel. The line begins on the right with the most senior participants receiving the Triple Robes offered by His Majesty the King in the first row. The second row is 2 metres behind the first, and subsequent rows are separated by a 1-metre distance.

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This is followed by the circumambulation ceremony to pay respects to the Three Jewels. During this time, participants meditate on the virtues of the Three Jewels by chanting “Iitioiso” while walking calmly with their eyes looking downwards, and visualising a clear, bright crystal ball floating in the centre of their body.

Once the third circumambulation is completed, participants pay homage to the Buddha by forming a straight line. They then seek forgiveness from their parents or guardians. The participants are then considered to be pure and ready for ordination, and they accept the Triple Robes from their parents or guardians.

The next step is the request to go forth (pabbajja). Participants chant with the highest respect to the Three Jewels and to the Preceptor. The Preceptor then instructs the applicants in the name of the Three Jewels to develop conviction in the Three Jewels as their refuge. The Preceptor teaches the participants the five basic objects of meditation which are:

  • Kesa: Hair on the head
  • Loma: Hair
  • Nakha: Nails
  • Danta: Teeth
  • Taco: Skin

When participants take refuge in the Three Jewels, they are also taking the Ten Precepts — guidelines which help individuals maintain proper actions of the Three Doors: Body, Speech and Mind. Participants then request for dependence — guidance, protection, teaching and education — from the Preceptor.

The Preceptor then explains the Four Requisites: clothing, food, lodging and medicine. Participants continue by acknowledging the requisites with the words “Ama bhante”.

The novice monks then stand facing the assembled Bhikkhus with their hands joined in the gesture of Anjali, one foot away from a special cloth. They walk around this cloth without stepping on it. A number of questions are asked in Pali, which the novice monks answer.

Finally, when their names are called, each novice monk walks around the special cloth towards the platform. They climb onto the platform with their left knee and then walk forward on their knees, pausing between the first two Sangha members and bowing three times.

The ceremony ends with a chanting of the Request for Ordination.

 

Daily Schedule

4.30 a.m. Wake Up
5.00 a.m. Morning Chanting, Meditation Session, and Spreading Loving Kindness
6.30 a.m. Community Service
7.10 a.m. Breakfast
9.15 a.m. Meditation Session and Dharma Talk
11.00 a.m. Lunch
12.30 p.m. Personal Time
2.00 p.m. Meditation Session and Dharma Talk
4.15 p.m. Exercise
5.00 p.m. Refreshments
6.30 p.m. Evening Chanting
7.00 p.m. Meditation Session and Dharma Talk
9.00 p.m. Sleep in Peace

 

Eligibility

  1. Gentlemen between the ages of 18 and 60 who are fluent in English, Chinese or Japanese.
  2. Good character and ready to conform strictly to the rules set by the training supervisors.
  3. Healthy, free from infectious diseases and ailments such as diabetes, mental illness, epilepsy, asthma, kidney disease or drug dependence.
  4. Free of commitments which might interrupt the course of training.
  5. Content with a non-vegetarian diet and whatever accommodation is provided by the training supervisors.
  6. Valid visa for at least 60 days stay in Thailand.

 

Brief Overview of Buddhism in Thailand

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More than 94% of the Thai population identifies as Buddhist, and the constitution of the Land of Yellow Robes stipulates that the King must be Buddhist and uphold the faith. Buddhist culture infuses almost every aspect of a Thai person’s life. From grand temples to small spirit houses, there is ubiquitous evidence of the spiritual life and belief of the Thais.

Merit-making activities such as offering food to monks, donating towards the building of temples, participating in Buddhist festivals and ceremonies, and observing the five precepts of Buddhism are all part of a Thai Buddhist’s life.

Young monks heading for their morning alms collection

Young monks heading for their morning alms collection

There are approximately 30,000 Wats or Buddhist temples in Thailand. Apart from housing monks, the temples also serve as a place of education and activity for the local community. Markets can usually be found outside the temple grounds.

From archaeological evidence such as the great pagodas of Nakom Pathom, Phra Pathom Chedi and others, it is generally accepted that Buddhism came to Thailand during the time of the Mon-Khmer people. However, some academics believe that the teachings of the Buddha came to Thailand during the time of the Indian emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan dynasty.

The famous Phra Pathom Chedi

The famous Phra Pathom Chedi

 

History

Various forms of Buddhism are practised in Thailand. These are:

 

I. Theravada or Southern Buddhism

The unearthing of relics such as the Dharma Chakra (Wheel of Law), the Buddha’s footprints and seats, and inscriptions on rocks in the Pali language are evidence that Buddhism reached Thailand around the 3rd century B.C. An ancient Ceylonese text, the Mahavamsa, recorded that missionaries were sent by King Ashoka to nine territories, including Suvarnabhumi, the capital of which is said to be Nakhon Pathom.

 

II. Mahayana or Northern Buddhism

Part of Southern Thailand was under the rule of the Srivijaya empire. The Srivijayan king was a Mahayanist who spread Mahayana Buddhism throughout the Malay peninsula and archipelago. The chetiyas in Chaiya (Jaya) and Nakon Sri Thammarath (Nagara Sri Dharmaraja) have strong Mahayana elements.

 

III. Burma (Pagan) Buddhism

During the reign of King Anuruddha (Anawratha), whose kingdom included areas like Chiangmai, Lopburi and Nakhon Pathom, Buddhism was a significant force in Thailand, especially in the northern part of the country.

As Theravada Buddhism went through change, it became known in Thailand as Burma (Pagan) Buddhism. Relics from northern Thailand show more Theravada elements while those in southern Thailand show more Mahayana influence.

 

IV. Ceylon (Lankavamsa) Buddhism

A king of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), Parakramabahu the Great (1153-1186 A.D.) was a strong proponent of Theravada Buddhism. Monks from Burma, Lanna (North Thailand), and Lanchang (Laos) would travel to Ceylon to undergo the ordination rite of upasampada vidhi (later called the Lankavamsa).

When Thai kings such as King Maha Dharmaraja Lithai and King Borom Trai Lokanath were ordained, the ceremony was performed according to Lankavamsa, with elders from Ceylon presiding over the ceremony. The influence of this form of Buddhism can be seen in monasteries, Buddha images and footprints that were built according to the style popular in Ceylon.

 

Ordained Sangha in Thailand

Pictures in the News: Pathum Thani, Thailand

The Bhikkhus of Thailand follow the rules and discipline (Vinaya) of the Theravadan tradition, similar to that of Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia. The government allocates a part of its budget to the maintenance of temples and stipends for high-ranking monks.

There are approximately 300,000 monks in Thailand, distinct in their yellow and orange robes. Thais are accustomed to offering daily alms, food and other donations to the monks on the streets.

Novices, usually young boys, take on the Ten Precepts and are often in close contact with their families. They do not participate in the recitation of the monastic code (and the confessions of violations) that take place on uposatha days. They usually ordain as novices during school term breaks, while those who intend to become monks in the long term may receive secular schooling at the monasteries/ temples. At the age of 20, they are eligible to receive the higher ordination of upasampada to become fully ordained Bhikkhus.

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The Young Monks in Rural Nakhon Nayok, Thailand

Young monks in rural Nakhon Nayok, Thailand

It is common for Thai males to become monks for a short period of time before they reach the age of 20. This is considered a rite of passage as well as a great way to collect merits for the ordained individual and his family. The Si Satchanalai Ordinations held every April celebrate this tradition.

Established on 1st January 1963 under the Sangha Act of 1962, the Sangha Supreme Council of Thailand is the governing body of the Buddhist order (Sangha) of Thailand. This council is the ultimate authority for all ecclesiastical matters within the Thai monastic community. Its leadership consists of the country’s highest-ranking monks, who consult the Supreme Patriarch of Thailand concerning administrative and theological matters.

The Sangharaja or the Supreme Patriarch is the highest Buddhist authority in Thailand and is appointed by the King, with the Thai Prime Minister countersigning. Its candidates are chosen from the most senior and highly-qualified members of the Sangha.

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Sources:

  • http://www.buddhanet.net/pdf_file/bud-thailand.pdf
  • https://theculturetrip.com/asia/thailand/articles/everything-you-need-to-know-about-buddhism-in-thailand/
  • https://www.budsas.org/ebud/ebdha108.htm
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sangha_Supreme_Council
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddhism_in_Thailand
  • http://en.dhammakaya.net
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wat_Phra_Dhammakaya
  • http://en.dhammakaya.net/activities/

 

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9 Responses to Wat Phra Dhammakaya: World’s Largest Temple

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  1. S.Prathap on Dec 5, 2019 at 4:29 pm

    Wat Phra Dhammakaya is worlds largest meditation Center,beautifully built, well landscaped and well maintained.The temple’s success is a collective achievement of every monk, novice and devotee who faithfully gave their time and energy day in and day out, against all odds to build the massive temple to serve all sentient beings.
    Their faith, determination and patience paid off when their dream of a sanctuary of peace to spread the Buddha’s teachings became a reality.Thank you very much for the interesting article.

  2. Jim Nelms on Jun 2, 2019 at 7:22 pm

    I was astonished from the information that I read in your pamphlet. I admire all of you people for your desire to become monks. My daughter is a believer of Buddhism and my hopes are that she will visit your monastery and become more involved in your religion. I f I give you her email address will you please send her some literature about you residence. Thank you. James Nelms

  3. Joy Kam on Jul 26, 2018 at 5:42 am

    Listening to the chanting of sacred words, melodies, mantras, sutras and prayers has a very powerful healing effect on our outer and inner environments. It clears the chakras, spiritual toxins, the paths where our ‘chi’ travels within our bodies for health as well as for clearing the mind. It is soothing and relaxing but at the same time invigorates us with positive energy. The sacred sounds invite positive beings to inhabit our environment, expels negative beings and brings the sound of growth to the land, animals, water and plants. Sacred chants bless all living beings on our land as well as inanimate objects. Do download and play while in traffic to relax, when you are about to sleep, during meditation, during stress or just anytime. Great to play for animals and children. Share with friends the blessing of a full Dorje Shugden puja performed at Kechara Forest Retreat by our puja department for the benefit of others. Tsem Rinpoche

    Listen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZbzgskLKxT8&t=5821s

  4. Wai Meng Wan on May 16, 2018 at 2:43 am

    I rejoice for this Buddhist institution and its leaders who are creative to bring the dharma to modern people without sacrificing the essence of the dharma. Such innovation is necessary in changing environment and as more societies embrace modernisation.

  5. Stella Cheang on Apr 7, 2018 at 8:02 pm

    Wat Phra Dhammakaya is a sign that Buddhism is a religion that transcends time, space and culture. It embraces the humanistic values and cater to the needs and moving times. As the earth is now a global village, modernisation is key to address Buddhists from all corners of the world. Wat Phra Dhammakaya facilitates this – it is the highest form of ‘dana’ in the truest sense for letting the world access Dharma. Similarly, our Guru, His Eminence the 25th Tsem Tulku Rinpoche – he lets the wisdom of Lord Buddha penetrates the earth via digital platforms through his Blog! These are really great works that inspire. Thank you for this sharing!

  6. Pastor Shin Tan on Apr 4, 2018 at 7:46 am

    Last Saturday, at an event marking 60 years of Tibetans being recipients of Indian kindness, Lobsang Sangay mentioned that the exiled Tibetans should strengthen their efforts to make the Dalai Lama’s return to his Potala Palace a reality.

    Representing the Indian government, Ram Madhav, a leader in the governing Bharatiya Janata party, echoed Sangay’s statement with hope that the Dalai Lama will be able to “return to your homeland” through peaceful and democratic means.

    This event was originally planned to be held in Delhi but it was cancelled and relocated to Dharamsala. At the same time, Indian officials were directed by their Foreign Secretary to avoid events hosted by the Tibetan leadership, since they coincided with a “sensitive time” for Delhi’s relations with Beijing. India’s volte-face approach in shunning the Tibetans, with the unprecedented cancellation of many key Tibetan events, is now being viewed as a clear sign that India is no longer willing to be collateral damage in the Tibetan quest to agitate China over the so-called Tibetan cause.

    With mounting pressure from India to not hurt their relations with China, the tone of the message this time around seems to be that of a plea with only one goal in mind: for the Dalai Lama to return to Tibet and reunite with Tibetans inside Tibet. Could it be that after 60 years, the Tibetan leadership has finally realised their fight against China is a futile one, and they should start looking at more achievable goals? May the aspirations of millions of Tibetans to see the Dalai Lama’s return to Tibet be fulfilled and in the words of Madhav, that ” it will not take that long for you (Tibetans) to be back home.”

    https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/apr/01/pm-in-exile-urges-tibetans-to-make-dalai-lamas-return-a-reality

  7. Samfoonheei on Apr 2, 2018 at 3:07 pm

    Wow amazing……….….this temple is worlds largest meditation Center,beautifully built, well landscaped & well maintained. A very serene place and amazing structure seem to be the most influential Buddhist temple in Thailand. It has attracted millions of people from far and near over the years. Looking at the amazing area with millions people doing meditation are fantastic . Feeling amazed at the way the people are well disciple and in order. Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this interesting article.

  8. Anne Ong on Mar 31, 2018 at 11:34 pm

    Wow!!..this is really an amazing eye opener to see such a large temple in Thailand! I could never imagine to see such large beautiful temple with so many beautiful Theravadan sangha ? . It is truly blessed to see beautiful buddhist temples. Thank you Rinpoche and blog team for sharing this amazing article and beautiful pictures ?

    • Dr Jagath on Apr 14, 2018 at 11:10 am

      Well wishes to dhammakaya program

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  • Samfoonheei
    Tuesday, Nov 26. 2024 03:00 PM
    Due to the Dorje Shugden controversy many practitioners are still oppressed due to their choice of religion. Yet there are complaisant, and obliging people too who barely understand the situation, poorly informed of the issue and behave in a way they knew what’s going on regarding the ban on Dorje Shugden. There are many good bits of wisdom and worthy words in this article. Well-intentioned people make mistakes, lots of them. Mistakes must be expected and being held accountable for. Oppression will still exist no matter how compassionate sharing with others. If we are willing to risk making mistakes we can still do something. We must constantly try to find out ways to use our privilege to push forward the voice of the oppressed. Do not allow ourselves to be immobilized by lack of knowledge.
    Thank you Rinpoche and Sarah for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/inspiration-worthy-words/ten-counterproductive-behaviors-of-well-intentioned-people.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Tuesday, Nov 26. 2024 02:58 PM
    Inspiring read of Scott Neeson a most influential person in the movie industry,walked away from Hollywood to start a charity. Left everything he had built,been famous, wealthy and living a life of luxury for the sake of those children living in the slump in Cambodia. He decided to leave Hollywood behind and moved to Cambodia and founded Cambodian Children’s Fund . It was on a trip to Phnom Penh, Scott saw hundreds of children and their families living and working on the Steung Meanchey garbage dump, one of the most toxic environments. It was a moment that changed his life, helping thousands of vulnerable children and their families escape a world of forced labour, child trafficking and desperate poverty into safety and independence. From being a self-serving person, to an extremely giving person truly inspiring. Scott has been living in Phnom Penh where his journey still captivates, inspires and bewilders people from all over the world.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this inspiring post

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/from-hollywood-to-landfills.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Tuesday, Nov 26. 2024 02:56 PM
    Vairochana Shugden, pacifying form of Dorje Shugden is revered by many for his ability to purify one’s negative karma, pacify natural disasters and calamities. And is especially efficacious for overcoming illness and disease as well. Shize or Vairochana Shugden is the emanation of Dorje Shugden who embodies the enlightened activity of pacification. Shize’s practice is very effective in helping us to receive prophecies or develop clairvoyance. Shize’s practice is excellent for calming ourselves down and increasing our merits. His practice results in our minds becoming much happier and being alleviated from depressions. Wow we can also rely on Shize’s practice to overcome serious illnesses. It can also be engaged where the area, there are a lot of natural disasters. On the whole its practice has many benefits. When we do the practice correctly, with good motivation, Shize will bless and guide us.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this great teachings on Shize who is a direct emanation of Dorje Shugden who is none other than the enlightened Manjushri.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/downloads/shize-a-practice-for-healing-and-long-life.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Tuesday, Nov 26. 2024 02:55 PM
    Interesting article. I never thought meditation can help oneself quit smoking without consumption of medication or drugs. According to an article in The Buddhist Review, not smoking is a result of developing calm and reducing clinging through authentic Dharma practice. Mindfulness-based interventions can help people learn to pay attention to and work with negative feelings, cravings, and other symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. By focusing on our breathing the mind becomes calm and single-pointed. Many are aware of the health risks and addictive properties of nicotine that are harmful. Buddhism is very effective to inspire transformation in people. Good read of how a Yale psychiatrist bringing together neuroscience and Buddhist practices to help people overcome their addictions. Thank you Dr. Judson for the great research work.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/quit-smoking-with-buddhist-way.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Tuesday, Nov 26. 2024 02:52 PM
    Trode-khangsar a 400 year old Dorje Shugden Temple in Lhasa, had me having great memories. Having a privileged to visit it in May 2019,with my Dharma brothers and sisters. It such a Holy Temple with great stories behind it . Located in Lhasa, that is over 300 years old which is dedicated to the controversial protector deity Dorje Shugden. The Temple is a Gelugpa monastery of Tibetan Buddhism, built in the 17th century by the Fifth Dalai Lama. The Great 5th Dalai Lama composed a praise to Dorje Shugden and created a statue to honour and recognize him as a Dharma protector as apology. Trode Khangsar itself is now registered as a national heritage memorial. That’s awesome as more and more people will get to know about this Holy temple. Merely by looking at those fading murals and Holy statutes is a blessing for all who came to visit this Trode-khangsar. A place worth visiting.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/dorje-shugden/trode-khangsar-a-400-year-old-dorje-shugden-chapel-in-lhasa.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Wednesday, Nov 20. 2024 04:02 PM
    The concept of rebirth has a long association with Buddhism. Rebirth in Buddhism refers to the teaching that the actions of a sentient being lead to a new existence after death, in an endless cycle called saṃsāra. One will begins a new life in a new body that may be human, animal or spiritual depending on the moral quality of the previous life’s actions. What they are reborn as depends on their actions in their previous life rather kamma. As a Buddhist we should believe in rebirth but still many people don’t . Buddha taught us that choices of rebirth make a difference and can shape many lifetimes. Buddhists believe that nothing that exists is permanent and everything will ultimately cease to be. There is a belief in rebirth
    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this profound article.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/the-importance-of-rebirth.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Wednesday, Nov 20. 2024 03:59 PM
    Against the odds two inspiring nuns fought all the way to become ordained, fighting for their rights to practice Buddhism . Interesting read of how they went through , bringing equality for women in Thailand. Buddhism is the predominant religion in Thailand. Officially, only men can become monks and novices in Thailand under a Buddhist order. The country does not recognize female monks or novices. In recent years, more Thai Buddhist women seeking to become full-fledged female monks, have been defying the tradition getting ordained overseas, in Sri Lanka or India. Buddhist women have been fighting for years for equality and social acceptance in Thailand. They just can’t be ordained by Thai monks. Ven. Dhammananda, 68 year old former university lecturer and activist became Thailand’s first Theravadin bhikkhuni after going the odds. Inspiring read biography on Ven. Dhammananda and Ven. Dr. Lee. They had gone through great hardships, discrimination and against the many odds in bringing equality to women in Buddhism in Thailand.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this great inspiration post.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/thailands-renegade-yet-powerful-buddhist-nuns.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Wednesday, Nov 20. 2024 03:57 PM
    The unseen things are spiritual realities that are eternal and invisible to our physical eye. There are many forces and phenomena that are not visible to the naked eye. There are many things that humans cannot see yet there are some could see. For what is can be seen is only. Things do exist even we can’t see, believing their existence is our choice. Things that we can’t see in the world opens up a curiosity and exploration by some. Whether through scientific inquiry, or spiritual exploration, the pursuit of knowledge about the unseen can lead to profound insights about ourselves and the universe.
    Malacca City is the historic capital of the coastal state of Malacca, in Malaysia serving as a link between east and west for over 500 years. Famous for breath-taking sights with rich heritage, ancient dark culture and history with many old centuries buildings with an interesting past and a colourful ghost story. For that reason alone it is worth visiting as is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site owing to its well-preserved historical center. There’s many historical mansions been passed down generation to generations and with many ghostly sighting by the locals and visitors. There’s the reason many unseen beings loitering and attached to these places. Such an interesting and incredibly creepy watching the video in this blog host by Li Kim. Li Kim had done a great work all along with her team to share with readers about our historic Malacca .
    Thank you Rinpoche and Li Kim for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/paranormal/unseen-unspoken.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Wednesday, Nov 20. 2024 03:56 PM
    The concept of rebirth has a long association with Buddhism. Rebirth in Buddhism refers to the teaching that the actions of a sentient being lead to a new existence after death, in an endless cycle called saṃsāra. One will begins a new life in a new body that may be human, animal or spiritual depending on the moral quality of the previous life’s actions. What they are reborn as depends on their actions in their previous life rather kamma. As a Buddhist we should believe in rebirth but still many people don’t . Buddha taught us that choices of rebirth make a difference and can shape many lifetimes. Buddhists believe that nothing that exists is permanent and everything will ultimately cease to be. There is a belief in rebirth
    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this profound article.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/12-little-known-law-of-karma-that-will-change-your-life.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Thursday, Nov 14. 2024 11:37 AM
    Revisit this post again , watching the rare video footage of Dorje Shugden oracles. Awesome ,we are so fortunate to watch this incredible video, where extraordinary footage of Tsem Rinpoche self-arising as the all-powerful Buddha Yamantaka. Its was during Rinpoche’s visit to Tibet in 2009.
    Thank you Rinpoche with folded hands.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/dorje-shugden/never-seen-before-footage-of-dorje-shugden-oracles.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Thursday, Nov 14. 2024 11:35 AM
    Vajrayogini symbolizes the wisdom of all enlightened beings and embodies the impulse of inspiration that drives the Buddhas to attain the perfect enlightenment. Vajrayogini is one of the most effective practices for people today. We can make offerings such as gold or jewel offerings and so on. The offering of gold helps us to collect merits, spiritual attainments, gain a deeper connection to Vajrayogini. It also creates the causes to attain a Buddha’s body.
    Make Offerings to Vajrayogini in Kechara Forest Retreat at Bentong is such an meritorious way for us to collect merits. All thanks to our Guru having conceptualised the idea of having a statue of Vajrayogini for everyone . Recitation of Vajrayogini mantra can be a powerful tool for self-transformation, healing and liberation from samsara.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing with details explanation .

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/kechara-13-depts/make-offerings-to-vajrayogini-in-kechara-forest-retreat.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Thursday, Nov 14. 2024 11:31 AM
    Thank you, Rinpoche for sharing this insightful article. Life is short, and if we enjoy every moment of every day, then we will be happy no matter what happens or what changes along the way.What ever matter to us at the time of death is nothing. In the end, it’s not the years in our life that count it’s what you leave behind that matters. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again.Death is the golden key that opens the palace of eternity. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time. Learning Dharma and practicing dharma is the our choice that’s matter. Some of the key points to take notes, read, study the Lam Rim and apply it, engage in Sadhana daily and consistently. No one will help us at the moment of death but ourselves. Spiritual practicing is the best choice.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/last-moment.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Thursday, Nov 14. 2024 11:29 AM
    Well the size of Buddha statues in Tibetan Buddhism is important because it represents the Buddha’s immense ability and vast knowledge. Hence the Buddha statues hold the symbol of satisfaction within, peace and happiness. They are a symbol of inspiration for every human being. When we focus on the Buddha statues, it gives us inner peace that our mind, our heart and our soul gets enlightened.
    We have are so fortunate seeing and circumambulating where the 9-foot Dorje Shugden statue and with 500 mantra stones engraved with Dorje Shugden’s sacred mantra. As Rinpoche had said before the bigger and more Buddha statues helps in planting seeds of enlightenment in people’s mind-streams. It also help us to generate as much merit and purify as much karma as possible. Merely by seeing all those big statues at Kechara Forest Retreat is a blessing.
    Thank you Rinpoche.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/kechara-13-depts/bigger-and-more-buddha-statues-makes-a-difference.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Thursday, Nov 14. 2024 11:27 AM
    The 4th Tagpu Pemavajra Jampel Tenpai Ngodrub, most commonly known as Tagpu Dorje Chang, was a highly accomplished yogi Highly attained lama who had many authentic visions of the Buddhas and even travel astrally to receive direct teachings from them. His recognised line of incarnations stem all the way back to the 14th Century. He is generally regarded as such amongst Gelug lineage holders. He spent most of his time in a hermitage located above Sera Monastery, gave teachings and transmitted many vital practices and lineages to his foremost student Kyabje Pabongka Rinpoche. Besides receiving the complete instructions of Dorje Shugden’s practice, Tagpu Dorje Chang had many other mystical experiences throughout his lifetime. Interesting read biography of a highly accomplished mahasiddha lama.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this great sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/guest-contributors/biography-the-4th-tagphu-pemavajra-jampel-tenpai-ngodrub.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Oct 18. 2024 06:39 PM
    n Tibetan culture, it is a popular and customary practice for families to invite monks to perform spiritual ceremonies such as Trusol rituals. The monks have had the opportunity to offer such ceremonies for individuals or their families. Such ceremonies purify the elements of the environment which helps those living or visiting there to experience good health, success and well-being. The sacred ritual of ‘bathing’ the Buddhas and consecration through which negativities, sicknesses and obstacles will be cleared. Where by filling those areas with positive energies and good vibes through this Trusol consecration puja. Water is an essential part of this puja and symbolises the cleansing of all negativities and impurities. Through this puja it also pacifies local deities and other unseen beings in the surrounding areas. We are indeed fortunate that Tsem Rinpoche has taught Kecharians this practice and it has benefited many.
    Thank you Rinpoche with folded hands

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/the-second-generation-of-trusol-practitioners.html

1 · 2 · 3 · 4 · 5 · »

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The Known and unknown are both feared,
Known is being comfortable and stagnant,
The unknown may be growth and opportunities,
One shall never know if one fears the unknown more than the known.
Who says the unknown would be worse than the known?
But then again, the unknown is sometimes worse than the known. In the end nothing is known unless we endeavour,
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According to legend, Shambhala is a place where wisdom and love reign, and there is no crime. Doesn\'t this sound like the kind of place all of us would love to live in? https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=204874
5 years ago
According to legend, Shambhala is a place where wisdom and love reign, and there is no crime. Doesn't this sound like the kind of place all of us would love to live in? https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=204874
108 candles and sang (incense) offered at our Wish-Fulfilling Grotto, invoking Dorje Shugden\'s blessings for friends, sponsors and supporters, wonderful!
5 years ago
108 candles and sang (incense) offered at our Wish-Fulfilling Grotto, invoking Dorje Shugden's blessings for friends, sponsors and supporters, wonderful!
Dharmapalas are not exclusive to Tibetan culture and their practice is widespread throughout the Buddhist world - https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=193645
5 years ago
Dharmapalas are not exclusive to Tibetan culture and their practice is widespread throughout the Buddhist world - https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=193645
One of our adorable Kechara Forest Retreat\'s doggies, Tara, happy and safe, and enjoying herself in front of Wisdom Hall which has been decorated for Chinese New Year
5 years ago
One of our adorable Kechara Forest Retreat's doggies, Tara, happy and safe, and enjoying herself in front of Wisdom Hall which has been decorated for Chinese New Year
Fragrant organic Thai basil harvested from our very own Kechara Forest Retreat farm!
5 years ago
Fragrant organic Thai basil harvested from our very own Kechara Forest Retreat farm!
On behalf of our Puja House team, Pastor Tat Ming receives food and drinks from Rinpoche. Rinpoche wanted to make sure the hardworking Puja House team are always taken care of.
5 years ago
On behalf of our Puja House team, Pastor Tat Ming receives food and drinks from Rinpoche. Rinpoche wanted to make sure the hardworking Puja House team are always taken care of.
By the time I heard about Luang Phor Thong, he was already very old, in his late 80s. When I heard about him, I immediately wanted to go and pay my respects to him. - http://bit.ly/LuangPhorThong
5 years ago
By the time I heard about Luang Phor Thong, he was already very old, in his late 80s. When I heard about him, I immediately wanted to go and pay my respects to him. - http://bit.ly/LuangPhorThong
It\'s very nice to see volunteers helping maintain holy sites in Kechara Forest Retreat, it\'s very good for them. Cleaning Buddha statues is a very powerful and effective way of purifying body karma.
5 years ago
It's very nice to see volunteers helping maintain holy sites in Kechara Forest Retreat, it's very good for them. Cleaning Buddha statues is a very powerful and effective way of purifying body karma.
Kechara Forest Retreat is preparing for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations. This is our holy Vajra Yogini stupa which is now surrounded by beautiful lanterns organised by our students.
5 years ago
Kechara Forest Retreat is preparing for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations. This is our holy Vajra Yogini stupa which is now surrounded by beautiful lanterns organised by our students.
One of the most recent harvests from our Kechara Forest Retreat land. It was grown free of chemicals and pesticides, wonderful!
5 years ago
One of the most recent harvests from our Kechara Forest Retreat land. It was grown free of chemicals and pesticides, wonderful!
Third picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
5 years ago
Third picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
Second picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
5 years ago
Second picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
First picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
5 years ago
First picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
The first title published by Kechara Comics is Karuna Finds A Way. It tells the tale of high-school sweethearts Karuna and Adam who had what some would call the dream life. Everything was going great for them until one day when reality came knocking on their door. Caught in a surprise swindle, this loving family who never harmed anyone found themselves out of luck and down on their fortune. Determined to save her family, Karuna goes all out to find a solution. See what she does- https://bit.ly/2LSKuWo
5 years ago
The first title published by Kechara Comics is Karuna Finds A Way. It tells the tale of high-school sweethearts Karuna and Adam who had what some would call the dream life. Everything was going great for them until one day when reality came knocking on their door. Caught in a surprise swindle, this loving family who never harmed anyone found themselves out of luck and down on their fortune. Determined to save her family, Karuna goes all out to find a solution. See what she does- https://bit.ly/2LSKuWo
Very powerful story! Tibetan Resistance group Chushi Gangdruk reveals how Dalai Lama escaped in 1959- https://bit.ly/2S9VMGX
5 years ago
Very powerful story! Tibetan Resistance group Chushi Gangdruk reveals how Dalai Lama escaped in 1959- https://bit.ly/2S9VMGX
At Kechara Forest Retreat land we have nice fresh spinach growing free of chemicals and pesticides. Yes!
5 years ago
At Kechara Forest Retreat land we have nice fresh spinach growing free of chemicals and pesticides. Yes!
See beautiful pictures of Manjushri Guest House here- https://bit.ly/2WGo0ti
5 years ago
See beautiful pictures of Manjushri Guest House here- https://bit.ly/2WGo0ti
Beginner’s Introduction to Dorje Shugden~Very good overview https://bit.ly/2QQNfYv
5 years ago
Beginner’s Introduction to Dorje Shugden~Very good overview https://bit.ly/2QQNfYv
Fresh eggplants grown on Kechara Forest Retreat\'s land here in Malaysia
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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  • Our Malaysian Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir speaks so well, logically and regarding our country’s collaboration with China for growth. It is refreshing to listen to Dr. Mahathir’s thoughts. He said our country can look to China for many more things such as technology and so on. Tsem Rinpoche
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  • This is the first time His Holiness Dalai Lama mentions he had some very serious illness. Very worrying. This video is captured April 2019.
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  • This dog thanks his hero in such a touching way. Tsem Rinpoche
    6 years ago
    This dog thanks his hero in such a touching way. Tsem Rinpoche
  • Join Tsem Rinpoche in prayer for H.H. Dalai Lama’s long life~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYy7JcveikU&feature=youtu.be
    6 years ago
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    6 years ago
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    6 years ago
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A section for you to clarify your Dharma questions with Kechara’s esteemed pastors.

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

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CHAT PICTURES

Thank you for your Order!52393739852742
3 weeks ago
Thank you for your Order!52393739852742
Look at how attentive of the members during Dharma talk. It is through hearing, contemplation and practicing Dharma, one is able to eradicate delusions and march towards liberation. 28/9/2024 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 months ago
Look at how attentive of the members during Dharma talk. It is through hearing, contemplation and practicing Dharma, one is able to eradicate delusions and march towards liberation. 28/9/2024 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Pastor  did dharma sharing on KFR retreat puja, purification after retreat and karma. Kechara Penang weekly puja. Pic taken by Siew Hong.
2 months ago
Pastor  did dharma sharing on KFR retreat puja, purification after retreat and karma. Kechara Penang weekly puja. Pic taken by Siew Hong.
Under the guidance from Pastor Seng Piow, Kechara Penang Study Group members completed our weekly Dorje Shugden Puja. 28th September 2024 by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Under the guidance from Pastor Seng Piow, Kechara Penang Study Group members completed our weekly Dorje Shugden Puja. 28th September 2024 by Jacinta.
Sponsors' packages nicely decorated nd offered up on behalf. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Sponsors' packages nicely decorated nd offered up on behalf. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Completed Dorje Shugden puja cum recitation of Namasangiti on 14th September 2024. Kechara Penang Study Group, uploaded by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Completed Dorje Shugden puja cum recitation of Namasangiti on 14th September 2024. Kechara Penang Study Group, uploaded by Jacinta.
Known as Merdeka Day (31st Aug 2024), our Kechara Penang members celebrated this day with Dorje Shugden and his entourage by doing a DS puja together with recitation of Namasangiti. Uploaded by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Known as Merdeka Day (31st Aug 2024), our Kechara Penang members celebrated this day with Dorje Shugden and his entourage by doing a DS puja together with recitation of Namasangiti. Uploaded by Jacinta.
24th Aug 2024, Kechara Penang Study Group members have completed weekly puja. A variety of kuihs and fruits were offered up on behalf of sponsors. By Jacinta
2 months ago
24th Aug 2024, Kechara Penang Study Group members have completed weekly puja. A variety of kuihs and fruits were offered up on behalf of sponsors. By Jacinta
At the point of the passing, the only thing that will help us and our loved ones is the Dharma. Hence, try to chant mantra, do pujas, giving alms and etc during this period. Bereavement puja by Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 months ago
At the point of the passing, the only thing that will help us and our loved ones is the Dharma. Hence, try to chant mantra, do pujas, giving alms and etc during this period. Bereavement puja by Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Bereavement puja by Kechara Penang Study Group. May the deceased has good rebirth and the family members find solace in the Three Jewels. Thanks to Rinpoche for He always taught us about practising compassion through action. By Jacinta
3 months ago
Bereavement puja by Kechara Penang Study Group. May the deceased has good rebirth and the family members find solace in the Three Jewels. Thanks to Rinpoche for He always taught us about practising compassion through action. By Jacinta
Thanks to Sharyn, the florist came and arranged on the spot! What a lovely and colourful bunch flowers attractively arranged to Buddha as offerings. 2nd Penang DS retreat of the year (2024), uploaded by Jacinta.
4 months ago
Thanks to Sharyn, the florist came and arranged on the spot! What a lovely and colourful bunch flowers attractively arranged to Buddha as offerings. 2nd Penang DS retreat of the year (2024), uploaded by Jacinta.
As usual, a retreat will not be complete without nice tormas. Pastor Patsy and our dear Penang members ~ Swee Bee, Tang, Jasmine and Siew Hong came together as a perfect and united team in completing it. Penang DS Retreat 17-18th Aug 2024 by Jacinta.
4 months ago
As usual, a retreat will not be complete without nice tormas. Pastor Patsy and our dear Penang members ~ Swee Bee, Tang, Jasmine and Siew Hong came together as a perfect and united team in completing it. Penang DS Retreat 17-18th Aug 2024 by Jacinta.
A picture that says all. Thanks to Pastor Seng Piow, 12 retreatants and 51sponsors that make this event a successful one. See you all in our next retreat. Kam Siah. A simple yet full of gratitude note by Choong, uploaded by Jacinta.
4 months ago
A picture that says all. Thanks to Pastor Seng Piow, 12 retreatants and 51sponsors that make this event a successful one. See you all in our next retreat. Kam Siah. A simple yet full of gratitude note by Choong, uploaded by Jacinta.
Offerings being set up, getting ready to start the first day of Kechara Penang Group's retreat. By Jacinta
4 months ago
Offerings being set up, getting ready to start the first day of Kechara Penang Group's retreat. By Jacinta
As H. E. The 25th Tsem Tulku Rinpoche had mentioned a retreat is time taken away from our ordinary, daily, mundane activities specifically to focus on deeper meditation, deeper meditational practices to gain some benefits.  Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
4 months ago
As H. E. The 25th Tsem Tulku Rinpoche had mentioned a retreat is time taken away from our ordinary, daily, mundane activities specifically to focus on deeper meditation, deeper meditational practices to gain some benefits. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Retreat started for the second half of the year, 17th Aug 2024. We have new participants and those regulars. Thanks to Pastor Seng Piow and Choong for organising it. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
4 months ago
Retreat started for the second half of the year, 17th Aug 2024. We have new participants and those regulars. Thanks to Pastor Seng Piow and Choong for organising it. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
10th Aug 2024. Kechara Penang Study Group completed DS puja, led by Siew Hong. Uploaded by Jacinta.
4 months ago
10th Aug 2024. Kechara Penang Study Group completed DS puja, led by Siew Hong. Uploaded by Jacinta.
Thank you Pastor Seng Piow for the dharma sharing and leading today's puja 3rd August 2024. Pic by Siew Hong and uploaded by Jacinta.
4 months ago
Thank you Pastor Seng Piow for the dharma sharing and leading today's puja 3rd August 2024. Pic by Siew Hong and uploaded by Jacinta.
Puja sponsorships packages of RM100, RM 50 and RM30. Really appreciate the continuous support for our Penang DS Chapel. 28/7/2024 By Jacinta
4 months ago
Puja sponsorships packages of RM100, RM 50 and RM30. Really appreciate the continuous support for our Penang DS Chapel. 28/7/2024 By Jacinta
Completed weekly puja at Penang DS Chapel. 27th July 2024 by Jacinta.
4 months ago
Completed weekly puja at Penang DS Chapel. 27th July 2024 by Jacinta.
For those Penang members who were back in Penang, instead of having a weekend off, they chose to go to Penang DS centre and did a DS puja for the benefits of all beings. 20th July 2024, Saturday. By Jacinta
4 months ago
For those Penang members who were back in Penang, instead of having a weekend off, they chose to go to Penang DS centre and did a DS puja for the benefits of all beings. 20th July 2024, Saturday. By Jacinta
So proud of Penang Kecharians for attending initiations given by Venerable Chojila at Kechara Forest Retreat, Bentong on 20th - 21st July 2024. Against all odds, many of us made it there. (Not in the pic Mr. Teo and Sunny) By Jacinta.
4 months ago
So proud of Penang Kecharians for attending initiations given by Venerable Chojila at Kechara Forest Retreat, Bentong on 20th - 21st July 2024. Against all odds, many of us made it there. (Not in the pic Mr. Teo and Sunny) By Jacinta.
Wishing all sponsors' wishes be fulfilled and thanks for supporting our Kechara Penang Puja packages on 13/7/2024. By Jacinta
4 months ago
Wishing all sponsors' wishes be fulfilled and thanks for supporting our Kechara Penang Puja packages on 13/7/2024. By Jacinta
#throwback 13th July 2024, Kechara Penang Study Group completed DS puja. We have special guest that day, Paul, a long time senior Kecharian with his friends. By Jacinta
4 months ago
#throwback 13th July 2024, Kechara Penang Study Group completed DS puja. We have special guest that day, Paul, a long time senior Kecharian with his friends. By Jacinta
Beautiful offerings arranged by Choong. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
5 months ago
Beautiful offerings arranged by Choong. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
7/7/2024 Kechara Penang weekly puja completed. Kechara Penang Study Girup by Jacinta.
5 months ago
7/7/2024 Kechara Penang weekly puja completed. Kechara Penang Study Girup by Jacinta.
This week's puja offerings sponsored by a few people and we hope their wishes be fulfilled. Pic taken by Choong and uploaded by Jacinta.
5 months ago
This week's puja offerings sponsored by a few people and we hope their wishes be fulfilled. Pic taken by Choong and uploaded by Jacinta.
29th June 2024. Kechara Penang Study Group completed weekly Dorje Shugden cum Manjushri Namasangiti. Pic taken by Choong and uploaded by Jacinta
5 months ago
29th June 2024. Kechara Penang Study Group completed weekly Dorje Shugden cum Manjushri Namasangiti. Pic taken by Choong and uploaded by Jacinta
Need a dose of spiritual nourishment or perhaps any spiritual protection? Do take up our Kechara Penang food/candles offering packages. Do not hesitate to contact our member Choong for more info. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
6 months ago
Need a dose of spiritual nourishment or perhaps any spiritual protection? Do take up our Kechara Penang food/candles offering packages. Do not hesitate to contact our member Choong for more info. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Different food offerings offered on Penang Kechara Chapel's altar behalf of the sponsors. May sponsors' wishes be fulfilled. Great effort from Choong Soon Heng, one of our Kechara Penang dedicated members who thought of this way for people to generate merits while clearing obstacles. Uploaded by Jacinta.
6 months ago
Different food offerings offered on Penang Kechara Chapel's altar behalf of the sponsors. May sponsors' wishes be fulfilled. Great effort from Choong Soon Heng, one of our Kechara Penang dedicated members who thought of this way for people to generate merits while clearing obstacles. Uploaded by Jacinta.
These are some of the offerings offered on behalf of our sponsors. We have different offerings packages which one can choose from or just simply sponsor our weekly puja in dedication to our loved ones. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
6 months ago
These are some of the offerings offered on behalf of our sponsors. We have different offerings packages which one can choose from or just simply sponsor our weekly puja in dedication to our loved ones. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
We hope you enjoyed our pictures, as much as we enjoyed our Wesak Day together in Penang. Let us carry the energy and enthusiasm we experienced so far and inspires many more. Happy Wesak Day! 22/5/2024 KPSG by Jacinta
7 months ago
We hope you enjoyed our pictures, as much as we enjoyed our Wesak Day together in Penang. Let us carry the energy and enthusiasm we experienced so far and inspires many more. Happy Wesak Day! 22/5/2024 KPSG by Jacinta
Puja offering packages. Thanks to those who sponsored the puja. May all your wishes be fulfilled. KPSG by Jacinta
7 months ago
Puja offering packages. Thanks to those who sponsored the puja. May all your wishes be fulfilled. KPSG by Jacinta
Colourful altar with plenty of offerings. We had DS puja with Praise to Buddha Shakyamuni as we celebrate this special day of Buddha's Birth, Enlightenment and Parinirvana. KPSG by Jacinta
7 months ago
Colourful altar with plenty of offerings. We had DS puja with Praise to Buddha Shakyamuni as we celebrate this special day of Buddha's Birth, Enlightenment and Parinirvana. KPSG by Jacinta
Some of the activities done during the Wesak Day Celebration in Penang. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
7 months ago
Some of the activities done during the Wesak Day Celebration in Penang. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Wesak Day Celebration in Penang!Buddha's Bathing Ritual. 22/5/2024 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
7 months ago
Wesak Day Celebration in Penang!Buddha's Bathing Ritual. 22/5/2024 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
11/5/2024 Saturday @3pm. After puja, all members helped out clearing the offerings and we shared out the blessed food offerings with our families, friends and even animals. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
7 months ago
11/5/2024 Saturday @3pm. After puja, all members helped out clearing the offerings and we shared out the blessed food offerings with our families, friends and even animals. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
11/5/2024 Saturday @3pm. Activities during puja. Members chanting Dorje Shugden mantras. We've completed Dorje Shugden puja cum Namasangiti. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
7 months ago
11/5/2024 Saturday @3pm. Activities during puja. Members chanting Dorje Shugden mantras. We've completed Dorje Shugden puja cum Namasangiti. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
11/5/2024, Saturday @3pm. Activities : Offerings of khata to Rinpoche, garland of flowers to Dorje Shugden and a new Tibetan butterlamp being offered on the altar. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
7 months ago
11/5/2024, Saturday @3pm. Activities : Offerings of khata to Rinpoche, garland of flowers to Dorje Shugden and a new Tibetan butterlamp being offered on the altar. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Today we have an inaugural cancer free diet talk and info sharing by Mr. Ooi. Mr. Ooi is a Penangite and like any other man, he has a family to provide for. From colon cancer stage 4,he is now known as a cancer-free man. Learn more about his story and his acquaintance with Dorje Shugden here https://youtu.be/x7i-yXJBUwM?si=A-5O0udxjg52iS58
7 months ago
Today we have an inaugural cancer free diet talk and info sharing by Mr. Ooi. Mr. Ooi is a Penangite and like any other man, he has a family to provide for. From colon cancer stage 4,he is now known as a cancer-free man. Learn more about his story and his acquaintance with Dorje Shugden here https://youtu.be/x7i-yXJBUwM?si=A-5O0udxjg52iS58
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Dorje Shugden
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