As the glorious Chandrakirti said:
Any time you have freedom and your state is favourable,
If you do not take their advantage
And lose your freedom by falling to the lower realm,
Who will then raise you up again?

- Pabongka Dorje Chang, Liberation in the Palm of Your Hand

Why Must I Practice?

The greatest thing we can achieve in this life is to be able to liberate ourselves and others from suffering and its causes. To achieve that, we have to achieve the lam-rim, the gradual path to enlightenment through purifying all the negative karma we have collected and accumulate extensive merit.

What is Spiritual Practice?

Spiritual practice is not something mystical that is separate from what we do as we go about our daily business. Often, people think that to be a spiritual person, one must leave the trappings of everyday life and embark on an epic journey to a faraway land in search of awakening.

The truth is, spiritual practice can be incorporated into our daily lives. Many of these practices are readily available and establishing a consistent routine of study and practice ensures our progress along the spiritual path.

Relying on a Spiritual Guide

The Guru is the root of the spiritual path and the foundation of all spiritual attainments, hence the importance of relying on a qualified Spiritual Guide. Just like carpenters and sculptors must first study with a teacher, spiritual aspirants also need to find a guru who is capable of guiding us along the spiritual path.

Without receiving instructions and guidance from a qualified Spiritual Guide, one can never gain realizations or attainments. The Spiritual Guide helps us by giving us vows, empowerments and initiations, teaching us what is to be practised and what is to be avoided, and it is through the teacher that the blessings of the lineage flows.

If you do not have a teacher, it would highly recommended that you search for one living in your area. If you don’t know where to start, this is a list of established lineage masters and spiritual guides and dharma centers that you may wish to consult:

USA

1. H.H. Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche
   Trijang Buddhist Institute
   http://www.tbiusa.org/
2. Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche
   Gadenpa Buddhist Centre
   http://gadenpa.com/
3. Kyabje Gelek Rinpoche
   Jewel Heart Headquarters
   http://www.jewelheart.org/
4. Dagom Tensung Ling Tibetan Buddhist Monastery
   http://www.dgtlmonastery.org/

Canada

1. Zasep Tulku Rinpoche
   Gaden For The West
   http://www.gadenforthewest.org/
2. Zawa Tulku Rinpoche
   Ganden Chang Chub Choling
   http://khenrab.org/

Europe

1. Ven. Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
   Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Center
   http://nkt-kmc-manjushri.org/
2. H.H. Trisur Rinpoche Lungrik Namgyal
   Thar Deu Ling
   http://www.thardeuling.com/
3. H.E. Gangchen Rinpoche
   Albagnano Healing Meditation Centre
   http://ahmc.ngalso.net/
4. Gonsar Tulku Rinpoche
   Rabten Choeling
   http://www.rabten.eu/
5. H.E. Dagyab Kyabgoen Rinpoche
   http://www.dagyab-rinpoche.com/

For more reading on Spiritual Guides:

• Relating to a Spiritual Teacher: Building a Healthy Relationship (2000). Snow Lion Publications.
• Liberation in the Palm of Your hand: A Concise Discourse on the Path to Enlightenment (2006). Wisdom Publications, p. 217-269.
• The Fulfillment of All Hopes: Guru Devotion in Tibetan Buddhism (1996), Wisdom Publications.
• Great Treasury of Merit: How to Rely Upon a Spiritual Guide (1992). Tharpa Publications, p. 1-11

Studies and Practices

Lama Tsongkapa presented a special arrangement of Sutra and Tantra practices which can lead one to full enlightenment in one short lifetime. Below is a summary of the core teachings, beginning with the Lamrim (Stages of the Path), following by Lojong (Training the Mind) and lastly Mahamudra (the actual quick path to enlightenment).

I. LAMRIM (Stages of the Path)

The Lamrim (Stages of the Path) tradition presents a systematic, step-by-step cultivation of the Buddhist path to enlightenment from the point of view of three types of individuals.

First it leads students through the stages of the two lower spiritual motivations – individuals who aspire for a better rebirth, and then those who aspire for individual liberation. It culminates in the presentation of the path for those practicing from the point of view of the highest spiritual motivation, the Mahayana – individuals who aspire to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all living beings.

One studies the Lamrim to gain a panoramic understanding of the general teachings of the Buddha, and then receives the Lojong teachings in order to establish a quintessential regime of daily practice.

For more detailed information on the Lamrim and how to meditate on it, these are some suggested reading materials:

• The Lamp for the Path to Enlightenment (www.lamrim.com)
• Liberation in the Palm of Your hand: A Concise Discourse on the Path to Enlightenment (2006). Wisdom Publications.
• Joyful Path of Good Fortune: The Complete Buddhist Path to Enlightenment (1995). Tharpa Publications
• The Great Treatise on the Stages of the Path to Enlightenment, Volume I (2004). Canada: Snow Lion.
• The Great Treatise on the Stages of the Path to Enlightenment, Volume II (2004). Canada: Snow Lion.
• The Great Treatise on the Stages of the Path to Enlightenment, Volume III (2004). Canada: Snow Lion.

II. LOJONG (Training the Mind)

Lojong is a special formulation of the practical essence of the Lamrim teachings. Atisha embodied the pith of the Lojong teachings in his Lojong Tsa-tsig, and many of Atisha’s own Lojong teachings come to us only through passages found in the Book of the Kadampa Masters.

Two Lojong texts most studied today across all schools of Tibetan Buddhism are Geshe Chekawa’s Seven Points for Training the Mind and Geshe Langri Tangpa’s Eight Verses for Training the Mind.

For more detailed information on Lojong, these are some suggested reading materials:

• Transforming the Mind: Eight Verses on Generating Compassion and Transforming your Life, His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Thorsons
• Mind Training: The Great Collection, Geshe Thupten Jinpa. Wisdom Publications.
• Universal Compassion: Inspiring Solutions for Difficult Times, Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. Tharpa Publications.

III. MAHAMUDRA

“Mahamudra” is a Sanskrit word meaning “great seal” and refers to the nature of all phenomena. It also refers to sophisticated Buddhist systems of meditation and practice to realise this great sealing nature. The distinctive characteristic of the Mahamudra method is the realization of the relationship between mind and reality through focusing on the mind itself.

The Gelug tradition of Mahamudra is known as Gelug-Kagyu because it uses Kagyu-style methods for recognising the conventional nature of mind and then typically Gelug methods for its deepest nature.

For more detailed information on Mahamudra, these are some suggested reading materials:

• The Gelug/Kagyu Tradition of Mahamudra, H.H. the Dalai Lama and Berzin, Alexander (1997). Ithaca, Snow Lion.
• Becoming the Compassion Buddha: Tantric Mahamudra for Everyday Life. Lama Thubten Yeshe. (2003). Wisdom Publications.
• Mahamudra Tantra – An Introduction to Meditation on Tantra, Geshe Kelsang Gyatso (2005). Tharpa Publications.

IV. PRELIMINARY PRACTICES

The purpose of preliminary practices is to purify ourselves of the grossest level of obstacles and build up positive force so that our studies and meditations will be more efficacious in bringing us to enlightenment.

Positive force or “merit,” refers to the conducive internal state that results from constructive, or “virtuous” actions of body, speech, mind and heart.

The preliminary practices are sometimes enumerated as five or nine:

1. Refuge: One recites Namo Gurubhya, Namo Buddhaya, Namo Dharmaya, Namo Sanghaya while visualizing the field of positive potential.
2. Prostrations: One prostrates to the 35 Confessional Buddhas, while reciting their names and the confessional prayer.
3. Mandala Offerings: One recites the Refuge and Bodhicitta prayers and the mandala offering verses, while visualizing offering the entire universe and everything beautiful in it to the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha.
4. Vajrasattva (Dorje Sempa) Mantra: One recites the Vajrasattva 100-syllable mantra along with Vajrasattva practice and the accompanying visualizations.
5. Samayavajra (Damtsig Dorje) mantra: One recites the mantra of this Buddha together with the appropriate visualizations.
6. Dorje Khadro (Vajra Daka): Imagining black sesame seeds as the negativities of ourselves and others, one offers them in a fire to the mouth of the fierce deity Dorje Khadro, who swallows them with pleasure as if they were nectar.
7. Water Offerings: This involves offering bowls of water to the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha, together with the accompanying visualizations.
8. Guru Yoga: One meditates on the inseparability of the Buddha’s mind, the Spiritual Guide’s mind and one’s own mind, together with visualization and mantra recitation.
9. Tsa-tsas: One creates clay or plaster images of the Buddhas.

It is important to know that even the Mahamudra teachings also emphasize the importance and need for extensive preliminary practices.

For more explanations on preliminary practices, these are some suggested reading materials:

• Preliminary practice (Ngondro) overview, Thubten Chodron
  http://thubtenchodron.org/2009/09/clearing-and-enriching-mind/

V. GURU YOGA

In order for realizations to ripen within our mind, we need to receive the Spiritual Guide’s blessings through the practice of Guru Yoga. Therefore, we should begin each preliminary practice with the particular guru yoga that we are able to do, such as the Six-Session Guru Yoga, the Guru Puja ( Lama Chöpa), the Guru Yoga of Lama Tsongkapa (Ganden Lha Gyäma) or the Guru Yogas of various deities for which we have received permission to practice.

For more explanations on Guru Yoga, these are some suggested reading materials:

• The Union of Bliss and Emptiness: Teachings on the Practice of Guru Yoga, Dalai Lama. (2009). Snow Lion Publications.
• Hundreds of Deities of Tusita: Commentary on Lama Tsongkhapa Guru Yoga, H.E. Chöden Rinpoche (2013). Awakening Vajra Publications.
• Heart Jewel: The Essential Practices of Kadampa Buddhism, Geshe Kelsang Gyatso (1997). Tharpa Publications.

VI. RELYING ON THE DHARMA PROTECTOR DORJE SHUGDEN

The principal function of a Dharma Protector is to protect Dharma teachings, lineages and practitioners. If one studies the nature and function of Dorje Shugden, one will develop great faith and clearly understand the benefits of relying upon this Dharma Protector.

Dorje Shugden helps, guides, and protects pure and faithful practitioners by granting blessings, increasing wisdom, fulfilling wishes, and bestowing success on all virtuous activities. His powerful mandala and retinue are the synthesis of the Three Jewels – Buddha, Dharma and Sangha. Many sadhanas of Dorje Shugden state that Dorje Shugden is the embodiment of the ‘Guru, Yidam, and Protector’.

For more explanations about relying on Dorje Shugden, these are some suggested reading materials:

• Introduction to Dorje Shugden
  http://www.dorjeshugden.com/all-articles/features/introduction-to-dorje-shugden/
• The Way to Rely Upon Dorje Shugden
  http://www.dorjeshugden.com/all-articles/features/the-way-to-rely-upon-dorje-shugden/
• What Gyalchen Dorje Shugden Wants
  http://www.dorjeshugden.com/all-articles/features/what-gyalchen-dorje-shugden-wants/
• Nature and Function
  http://www.dorjeshugden.com/all-articles/features/the-nature-and-function-of-dorje-shugden/
• Dharma Demystified: The Mantra of Dorje Shugden
  http://www.dorjeshugden.com/all-articles/dharma-readings/dharma-demystified-the-mantra-of-dorje-shugden/
• Dharma Demystified: Melody of the Unceasing Vajra
  http://www.dorjeshugden.com/all-articles/dharma-readings/dharma-demystified-melody-of-the-unceasing-vajra/
• The Benefits of Dorje Shugden’s Puja
  http://www.dorjeshugden.com/all-articles/dharma-readings/the-benefits-of-dorje-shugdens-puja/

Rabten Choeling is one of the first Tibetan Buddhist monasteries to be established in the West after the exodus of Tibetans into India. Located 820m above sea level on Mount-Pelerin, above Lake Geneva in Vevey, Switzerland, the centre is an institute for Higher Tibetan studies and the pursuit of Tibetan Buddhist practices. At present, there are about 30 monks, 5 nuns and 20 lay students living in the centre.

Early Beginnings: Geshe Tamdrin Rabten Rinpoche

Geshe Tamdrin Rabten Rinpoche

Rabten Choeling was founded by Geshe Tamdrin Rabten Rinpoche. After escaping from Tibet, Geshe Rabten Rinpoche along with Kyabje Ling Rinpoche was appointed as His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama’s advisor on philosophical matters.

Later in 1974, at the request of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Geshe Rabten moved to Switzerland to serve as the Abbot of Rikon Monastery in Tosstal. During this time, Geshe Rabten and a handful of monks lived in a rented house in the tiny hamlet of Schwendi, located 4 km from Rikon Monastery.

Geshe Rabten with a group of monastics in Rikon Monastery in 1976

H.H. the Dalai Lama gave a discourse on adaptating to Western civilization at Rikon Monastery, Switzerland, 6 October 1973

Geshe Rabten was an extraordinary lama, able to explain Buddhism and Buddhist philosophy with powerful clarity. Combined with his understanding of the Western mind and ideas, Geshe Rabten quickly gained a following of Western students and became the pioneer in spreading Tibetan Buddhism in Western Europe. It was also during this time that Geshe Rabten started training Westerners to become qualified Buddhist teachers in their own right.

Geshe Rabten Rinpoche in Dharamsala, India with his Western students

A year and a half later, Geshe Rabten and his entourage of students moved into Le Colibri, a larger property in Mount Pelerin, which later came to be known as Tharpa Choeling. A strong and closely knit Buddhist community was formed and enthusiastic lay students began settling down in the area, each finding their own unique way to contribute to the growing Dharma community. Some studied, while others helped with the more mundane works such as administration, finances, kitchen work and even gardening.

Venerable Abbot Geshe Tamdrin Rabten (with sunglasses) and the monks of Tharpa Choeling in 1978. From left to right: Glaude Grenier, Stephen Schettini, Christopher Pace, Laurence Williamson, Brian Grabia, Arnold Possick, Dominique Monmayeul, Stephen Batchelor, Helmut Gassner, Eckart Zabel, Bruno Le Guevel, Alan Wallace, Geshe Tamdrin Rabten, Geshe Jhampa Lhodro, Geshe Gendun Zangpo, Elio Guarisco and Gen Lo Norbu on the occasion of the novice ordination of Laurence, Dominique and Eckart

A younger Geshe Rabten Rinpoche

The Geneva Group

Anne Ansermet

Comprising of businessmen and industrialists, the Geneva group was led by Anne Ansermet, daughter of a famous Swiss conductor, Ernest. Coming from a privileged background, Anne was well-connected to the movers and shakers of the day, and it was this group that arranged and financed the purchase of Le Colibri. They funded the institute, put visas in passports, and provided sufficient funding for living expenses and books.

At the age of 70, Anne was drawn to Buddhism and even traveled to India to be ordained by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. She was an amazing woman to whom the residents of Tharpa Choeling owed much of their spiritual pursuits. It was the hard work of Anne and her group that allowed the ordained and lay people in Tharpa Choeling to live a life of study and contemplation without having to worry about their material needs.

The Geneva group on the other hand, approved of the study programs in Tharpa Choeling, confident that their hard work, money and time were well spent, and that things were moving in the right direction to help disseminate Buddhism in the West.

Anne Ansermet in Dharamsala with His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama

His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama Visits

In the summer of 1979, Geshe Rabten invited His Holiness the Dalai Lama to Switzerland. It was in Tharpa Choeling that His Holiness the Dalai Lama gave his first public teaching in the West, with a group of 1,000 in attendance.

1979: His Holiness Dalai Lama in Tharpa Choeling, Mt Pelerin, Switzerland (Photo by Fred von Allmen)

1979: His Holiness the Dalai Lama gives his first public teaching in the West in Tharpa Choeling, with B. Alan Wallace translating

10 Years Later: H.E. Gonsar Tulku Rinpoche

H.E. Gonsar Rinpoche

H.E. Gonsar Rinpoche, one of Geshe Rabten’s closest disciples, served his teacher for 33 years until Geshe Rabten’s passing in 1986. Gonsar Rinpoche considered it his personal responsibility to continue Geshe Rabten’s works, and Tharpa Choeling was renamed to Rabten Choeling in Geshe Rabten’s memory. At present, Gonsar Rinpoche is the director of Rabten Choeling as well as other Rabten centres across Europe.

Gonsar Rinpoche also led the search for Geshe Rabten’s incarnation, Tenzin Rabgye Rinpoche. Born in India in 1987, he now lives at Rabten Choeling under the care and tutelage of Gonsar Rinpoche. In the spring of 1998, the then ten-year-old Tenzin Rabgye Rinpoche gave his first teaching in front of 200 people in Rabten Choeling.

H.E. Tenzin Rabgye Rinpoche

Trijang Rinpoche and Rabten Choeling

Rabten Choeling was also host to H.H. Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche during his younger days. Due to increasing hostility against practitioners of the dharma protector Dorje Shugden, Trijang Rinpoche, a great Dorje Shugden proponent, had received several death threats from the Secret Society of External and Internal Enemy Eliminators which forced him to relocate to Switzerland for his own safety.

Having since moved to USA and established Trijang Buddhist Institute in Vermont, Trijang Rinpoche continues to maintain close ties with Rabten Choeling, especially with Tenzin Rabgye Rinpoche and Gonsar Rinpoche.

Kyabje Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche visits Rabten Choeling in 2012

Rabten Choeling Today

Rabten Choeling is both a monastery and an international school with students from 14 different countries. The sangha of Rabten Choeling perform daily prayers, monastic rites such as sangha confessionals, summer retreats and monthly pujas in the centre. Several guest rooms are available in the centre for retreats and for those interested to visit the monastery.

The residents of Rabten Choeling conduct prayer recitations twice a day, at 7 am and 6 pm, except during the weekends. Tsok offerings are also performed every fortnight according to the Tibetan calendar. A general class is held every Sunday, 3 pm, and several public seminars are conducted throughout the year.

Rabten Choeling Monastery

Centre des Hautes Etudes Tibétaines
Chemin Derochoz 2
1801 Le Mont-Pèlerin
Vevey, Switzerland
Phone: +41 21 9213600
E-mail: info@rabten.ch
Website: http://www.rabten.eu/visitSwiss_en.htm

More pictures of Rabten Choeling

Rabten Choeling Monastery in Switzerland

Front view of Rabten Choeling

Inside Rabten Choeling

Regular blessings ceremonies are conducted

The Dorje Shugden altar in Rabten Choeling

The magnificent view from Rabten Choeling

Prayer flags around the monastery

Shar Gaden monks explain to Mr Daniel Deming the signs in Gaden Jangtse which discriminate against Dorje Shugden practitioners

Due to the recent spate of violent attacks against Shugden practitioners, some lamas in Shar Gaden have been very concerned about the monastery’s safety and security. In the past year, the monastery has seen an attack on one of their elderly monks, and the takeover of one of the lama’s ladrangs. Thus the lamas contacted the American authorities in India, inviting them to witness for themselves the discrimination that is currently taking place in the Tibetan settlements as a result of the illegal ban on Dorje Shugden. It was because of this request that the US Vice Consul Mr Daniel Deming visited Shar Gaden Monastery. Despite denials by the Tibetan leadership that there is no discrimination against Dorje Shugden practitioners, it was very clear for Mr Deming to see the ban for himself. We thank Mr Deming for listening to the lama’s students and their concerns, and for taking the time out of his busy schedule to visit and see how he can protect the community. We hope that he is the first of a long line of distinguished visitors who will continue to visit the monasteries to witness the illegal ban for themselves. As more of the world’s leadership become aware about the discrimination, violence and threats against Dorje Shugden practitioners, it will only lead to an increased pressure on the Tibetan leadership to finally lift the ban.

A closer look at the sign in Gaden Jangtse stating the monastery disassociates from anyone affiliated with Dorje Shugden. It also states that Dorje Shugden practitioners are not allowed to use their medical facilities

Gaden Jangtse Monastery bans Shugden people from entering their Monastery

Mr Deming discussing the content of the signs

Mr Deming, the US Vice Consul, documented for himself all of the evidence against Dorje Shugden practitioners

A closer look at one of the signs Mr Deming photographed

Mr Deming takes another photograph of another sign to document the discrimination against Shugden practitioners

A closer look at one of the signs Mr Deming photographed

Mr Deming also had an audience with H.E. Domo Geshe Rinpoche and received some gifts

Mr Deming with H.E. Domo Geshe Rinpoche

Gaden Khachoe Shing in Bloomington, Indiana (USA)

Between October 3 to October 5, 2014, Kyabje Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche graced the opening of Venerable Kuten (Choijin) Lama’s monastery. Known as Gaden Khachoe Shing, the new monastery is located in Bloomington, Indiana (USA) on 150 acres of land. The opening was also graced by some of the most eminent lamas of the Gelug lineage who flew in from all over the world to join in the grand celebrations, including:

• His Eminence Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche, the Abbot of Serpom Monastery
• His Eminence Kyabje Gangchen Rinpoche from Italy
• H.E. Zasep Rinpoche from Canada
• H.E. Gonsar Rinpoche from Switzerland
• Ven. Rabten Rinpoche from Switzerland
• Ven. Achok Rinpoche from New York, USA
• Ven. Sherab Rinpoche from India
• Ven. Dechen Rinpoche from New York, USA
• Geshe Konchok Gyeltsen from Italy and
• Geshe Jangchup Gyeltsen from Italy

Thanks to the Dorje Shugden Tibetan Followers Facebook Fanpage and various monks and Tibetans who contributed materials, we recently received these very exciting photos and videos of Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche at the opening ceremony. We would like to share them with everyone who could not be there, so you may rejoice in the proliferation and promotion of Lama Tsongkhapa’s tradition, and of Dorje Shugden’s practice! These lamas show that with faith and reliance on the Dharma Protector Dorje Shugden, their works will be successful regardless of the obstacles. May many more such monasteries arise all over the world and may these lamas live long to continue to turn the wheel of Dharma for all sentient beings.

His Holiness Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche (left) and His Holiness Kyabje Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche (right) greeting one another. Yongyal Rinpoche, the abbot of Serpom Monastery, is also Trijang Rinpoche’s tutor

The high lamas and all of the attendees of the monastery’s opening. Click on the image to enlarge

More wonderful photos and videos:

DorjeShugden.com wishes to thank the Dorje Shugden Tibetan Followers Facebook Fanpageas well as the various Tibetan attendees who kindly shared the images below with us. We at DorjeShugden.com and all supporters around the world who contribute to this website send our most heartfelt congratulations to the opening of this centre. We rejoice for Venerable Kuten (Choijin) Lama and his disciples who have worked very hard to open this new centre. The spiritual head of this centre is the oracle monk himself, Venerable Kuten Lama, who through tremendous obstacles, hard work and perseverance, has built such a beautiful centre in Bloomington, Indiana (USA).

Long Life Puja For Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche and Dorje Shugden Oracle in Trance at Gaden Khachoe Shing

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

Grand Opening of Gaden Khachoe Shing Monastery in Bloomington, Indiana (USA)

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

H.H. Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche Gracing the Opening of Gaden Khachoe Shing Monastery

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

Gaden Khachoe Shing is situated on 150 acres of lush land

Entering the gompa

The prayer hall (gompa) beautifully set up for the opening ceremony. Obscured by the columns is a gold-plated Shakyamuni on their main altar

The main altar for Gaden Khachoe Shing. In the centre is Lama Tsongkhapa in long life form. To the left is Shakyamuni and to the right, Maitreya (the future Buddha). All statues are fully gold-plated

An attendee steps back to take photos of Gaden Khachoe Shing’s main altar. From left to right are Shakyamuni, Lama Tsongkhapa in long life form and Maitreya, the future Buddha

Gaden Khachoe Shing’s wonderful Long Life Tsongkhapa, the central image of their main altar

Gaden Khachoe Shing’s beautiful gold-plated Vajrayogini statue

The monastery’s beautiful gold-plated Maitreya statue is ornately decorated with jewels as an offering on the Buddha’s body

The wonderful gold-plated Dorje Shugden statue in Gaden Khachoe Shing’s Protector chapel

Awaiting Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche’s arrival

Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche’s arrival with his security escort. Such are the measures taken to protect his life from the very realistic threat of harm and violence against his life

H.H. Kyabje Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche arrives at Gaden Khachoe Shing

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

From left to right, Kyabje Gangchen Rinpoche, Kyabje Zasep Rinpoche and Ven. Dechen Rinpoche during a break at Gaden Khachoe Shing

Many people came from all over the world to celebrate in the opening of this new Dorje Shugden monastery, established by Ven. Kuten Lama in Indiana, USA

Ven. Dechen Rinpoche (left) and Geshe Jangchup Gyeltsen (right) escorting Kyabje Gangchen Rinpoche

Kyabje Gangchen Rinpoche joyfully greets a faithful practitioner of Dorje Shugden who came to attend the opening of this new monastery

Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche (centre), abbot of Serpom Monastery, poses for a photograph

Kyabje Gangchen Rinpoche

Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche is escorted to his seat to begin the puja

Sangha gathered to do prayers at the opening of Gaden Khachoe Shing in Bloomington, Indiana (USA)

Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche (left) with his teacher Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche (center)

H.H. Kyabje Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche pays his respects in Gaden Khachoe Shing’s Dorje Shugden chapel

A group picture in Gaden Khachoe Shing’s Protector chapel. From left to right are Ven. Sherab Rinpoche, H.E. Gonsar Rinpoche, Ven. Rabten Rinpoche, H.E. Zasep Rinpoche, H.H. Kyabje Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche, H.E. Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche, Ven. Achok Rinpoche, H.E. Kyabje Gangchen Rinpoche and Ven. Kuten (Choijin) Lama

Gathering for a group photo

Two holy attained beings share a quiet, private moment together

The sangha gathered take a moment to relax and have something to eat during the celebrations

Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche in front of Gaden Khachoe Shing’s main altar

Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche sitting with Ven. Achok Rinpoche, Kyabje Gangchen Rinpoche and H.E. Zasep Rinpoche

The event’s attendees gather to witness Kuten-la take trance of Duldzin

Kyabje Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche greets the peaceful form of Dorje Shugden, Duldzin, during trance

Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche greeting Duldzin, the peaceful form of Dorje Shugden. Dorje Shugden is very unique as he can take full trance within a qualified oracle in both peaceful and wrathful forms. The peaceful form is known as Duldzin and the wrathful form is known as Dorje Shugden.

Ven. Achok Rinpoche receives and is blessed by Duldzin

The oracle, Venerable Kuten Lama, in full trance of peaceful Dorje Shugden known as Duldzin. In this form, Duldzin can remain in the oracle for many hours, giving discourses, teachings and granting initiations

Wrathful Dorje Shugden about to take trance in Gaden Khachoe Shing

Wrathful Dorje Shugden enters the oracle

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

As wrathful Dorje Shugden enters the oracle, his monk assistants rush to tie on the oracle’s hat which weighs well over 120lb. The hat is tied so tightly that under normal circumstances (i.e. not in trance), a normal person would not be able to withstand the pressure to their neck

Wrathful Dorje Shugden has entered the oracle

Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche receives wrathful Dorje Shugden and proceeds to consult the Protector on a number of Dharma matters

Wrathful Dorje Shugden makes an offering of body, speech and mind to Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche

Anyone who dedicates their lives to spreading the Dharma, and to benefiting sentient beings will receive Dorje Shugden’s affection, as Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche does here

The attendees queue to receive a blessing and make offerings directly to Dorje Shugden

Kyabje Gonsar Rinpoche, Kyabje Rabten Rinpoche and Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche. Seated behind Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche is his consort Cham Kusho-la

Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche with Ven. Kuten Lama. Kuten Lama is the spiritual head of this beautiful new centre, Gaden Khachoe Shing and also one of the official oracles of Dorje Shugden recognised by the high lamas

Ganden Chang Chub Choling started from humble beginnings in the early 1970’s through the efforts of a great attained master and stalwart Dorje Shugden practitioner, Geshe Khenrab Gajam of Ganden Jangtse Monastery. During this era, an influx of Tibetan refugees had migrated to Canada. Thus, the Canadian government extended an invitation to Geshe Khenrab Gajam to establish a dharma center to fulfill the spiritual needs of their new citizens.

When Geshe Khenrab Gajam arrived in Montreal, he lived in a small apartment in Longueuil where the local Tibetan community soon made a close connection with him. Not long after his arrival, a small group of English and French students also started to gather for Dharma classes in Geshe Khenrab’s apartment.

Eventually, Geshe Khenrab converted his apartment into a Dharma centre known as the Atisha Dharma Centre. Although it was small, they were often visited by many great lamas, amongst them Venerable Pema Gyaltsen, Kyabje Lati Rinpoche, Venerable Kalu Rinpoche and Kyabje Zong Rinpoche.

Geshe Khenrab Gajam (right) and Kyabje Zong Rinpoche (left)

In 1980, just before the visit of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, the Atisha Dharma Centre moved to a larger building in Longueuil and was renamed the Tibetan Buddhist Temple – Ganden Chang Chub Choling. The more spacious premises allowed the Dharma community to flourish, and many more newcomers began to participate in the temple’s activities.

Chang Chub Choling remained in this location for six years until they relocated yet again to an even bigger place on De l’Eglise Ave. in Côte St. Paul at the advice of H.H. the 98th Gaden Tripa, Jamphel Shenpen, who had visited the temple several times over the course of a few years. The new center had its official opening in May 1986, with a traditional ceremony performed by the monks of Gyuto Tantric College.

H.H. the 14th Dalai Lama visited Ganden Chang Chub Choling in 1980

Chang Chub Choling continued to enjoy visits from great Lamas such as Zasep Tulku Rinpoche, and the students received many teachings and initiations from these enlightened masters under the auspices of Geshe Khenrab Gajam. After Geshela entered clear light on 4 October 1993, his students continued their practices and sought advice from both Kyabje Lati Rinpoche and Kyabje Dagom Rinpoche on the search for the reincarnation of their beloved teacher.

Through the kindness of Kyabje Dagom Rinpoche, the temple came under the guidance of Geshe Tsultrim Tenzin, an exceptional Geshe and Dorje Shugden practitioner, also from Ganden Jangtse Monastery. Geshe-la arrived with Kyabje Dagom Rinpoche in the fall of 2001, and remained in Chang Chub Choling for 4 months during which he gave many teachings. Thereafter, Geshe Tsultrim was called away to Austria to be the tutor of H.H. Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche.

Geshe Tsultrim Tenzin (right) with his close student Zawa Tulku Rinpoche (left)

Since then, Zawa Tulku Rinpoche and Gen Lobsang Tashi, both close disciples of Geshe Tsultrim, have established a permanent monastic presence in Chang Chub Choling to guide the spiritual community of Montreal. Together, they work hand in hand to actualize the vision of Geshe Khenrab Gajam.

The Sangha of Ganden Chang Chub Choling

Geshe Tsultrim Tenzin

Geshe Tsultrim Tenzin is the Spiritual Director of Gaden Chang Chub Choling temple in Montreal since 2001. Born in Kham, Tibet, he became a monk at the age of twelve at Ganden Jangtse Monastery and was awarded the highest degree of Geshe Lharampa after completing the study of all divisions of Tibetan Buddhist Philosophy.

Geshe-la also received an Acharya (Masters) degree at the Varanasi Sanskrit University in India and completed his tantric education at the Gyumed Tantric College.

Today, Geshe-la teaches at many Buddhist temples and monasteries in India, Tibet, Europe and North America. He has been responsible for the education of many monks, guiding them from a young age to maturity, and in particular, he is the chosen teacher of the young Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche.

Venerable Zawa Tulku Rinpoche

Born in India in 1978, Zawa Tulku Lobsang Dorje Chokyi Gyaltsen Rinpoche was recognized as the incarnation of the great Zawa Geshe Rinpoche. He was enthroned and ordained at Ganden Shartse monastery in 1982, where he studied Buddhist philosophy for the next 16 years.

Upon completing his education, Rinpoche then embarked upon an international tour, teaching at numerous Dharma centers around the world. Rinpoche is also a master of the ritual arts, particularly in healing and purification rituals, and the construction of sand mandalas.

When Zawa Rinpoche’s Guru, Geshe Tsultrim Tenzin, was called away to Austria to assist Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche in his studies, Zawa Rinpoche was given the responsibility to carry on the work of his teacher. Renowned for his kindness and pure morality, Zawa Rinpoche is now the Abbot of Ganden Chang Chub Choling Tibetan Buddhist Temple in Montreal.

Venerable Trote Tulku Rinpoche

Born in Tibet in 1978, Trote Rinpoche was recognized by the Panglung oracle as the reincarnation of Trote Geshe Rinpoche in 1983, when he was 5 years old. Enthroned in both Chatreng Sampheling Monastery and Ganden Shartse Monastery, Trote Rinpoche studied Buddhist philosophy under various great masters including H.H. the 101st Ganden Tripa Lungrik Namgyal, Venerable Laka Rinpoche, Kyabje Lati Rinpoche and Kensur Jampa Yeshe Rinpoche.

In 2012, Trote Rinpoche was invited by his good Dharma friend Zawa Tulku Rinpoche to assist in the operations of Ganden Chang Chub Choling in Montreal. Ever since then, Trote Rinpoche has been the resident Lama and teacher in the temple.

Gen Lungrik Tenzin

Gen Lungrik Tenzin was born in Kham, Tibet in 1975.

After being ordained in Ganden Shartse Monastery in India, he studied under many great masters such as Kensur Lati Rinpoche, Kensur Jampa Yeshe Rinpoche and Geshe Gyatso.

Just like Trote Rinpoche, Gen Lungrik Tenzin is a close associate of Zawa Rinpoche and was invited to Montreal as a resident Lama and teacher of Ganden Chang Chub Choling.

Gen Lobsang Tashi

Gen Lobsang Tashi was ordained at the age of 8 in Ganden Jangtse Monastery and is in the process of completing his traditional monastic education.

Gen-la is the assistant of Zawa Tulku Rinpoche and is also the resident Tibetan translator and language teacher in Ganden Chang Chub Choling.

Carrying on the Lineage

It is widely known that Geshe Khenrab Gajam was an eminent Dorje Shugden practitioner who upheld his commitments and practices until he entered clear light in 1993. Determined to preserve the holy lineage of their Guru, the members of Chang Chug Choling have continued their protector practices after the passing of their teacher.

Through Chang Chub Choling’s Spiritual Director, Geshe Tsultrim Tenzin, and his unique position as H.H. Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche’s tutor, the members of the temple are also closely connected to many great Dorje Shugden masters.

Today, under the guidance of Zawa Tulku Rinpoche, who is an active and vocal supporter of the Dorje Shugden movement, Ganden Chang Chub Choling offers a variety of Buddhist services for the public, among them Dorje Shugden prayer services .

We at DorjeShugden.com are proud of our Dharma brothers and sisters in Montreal for staying strong and unified during these difficult times, and for their unwavering devotion to Geshe Khenrab Gajam.

Tibetan Buddhist Temple – Gaden Chang Chub Choling

1870, De l’Eglise Ave.
Montreal H4E 1G8
Quebec, Canada

Tel.: +1-514-765-3515
Info: +1-514-219-4506
Fax : +1-514-765-9102

Email: tbt@khenrab.org
Website: www.khenrab.org

October 20, 2014

Press Release


DALAI LAMA AND HIS FOLLOWERS 
BEEF UP ATTACK ON DORJE SHUGDEN

 FOLLOWERS

1. By attacking physically and trying to eliminate the followers of Dorje Shugden.

2. By bribing and convincing people to not follow Dorje Shugden.

3. Trying to divide Shugden followers and get them to infiltrate and divide by spreading rumors. For one example, in Tibet Autonomous Region, Tengsheng District Sertsa-shang village Shugden follower Kunchok Thargyal, 22, on September 28, 2014 afternoon was on a mountain gathering dung   for his firewood. When he was returning from his work the three men met him in a remote area and attacked him. He was stabbed multiple times.  They stoned and stabbed him many times. They assumed he was dead. Fortunately he survived and is now in critical condition in a Lhasa hospital fighting for his life.
The team leader and perpetrator is directly linked and connected to the Dalai Lama and his organization in India.  His monk name is Nawang Tenlay.  His lay name was Dawa Tendruk.  He was trained in Drepung Loseyling, Lohpa Khangtsen in South India the monastery where Dalai Lama gave the first statement ostracizing and banning all religious and material pertaining to Dorje Shugden.  Also he promoted religious persecution and segregation.Two other young Tibetans, Oyo Tsering and Wopa contributed to the attack, following the direction of Nawang Tenlay.

This is the picture of Kunchok Thargay in Lhasa hospital fighting for his life

Local authorities seemed not too concerned with the attacking and murdering of Shugden followers.  They even ordered the victim’s family to not mention it was about religious conflict and also not talking to higher authorities.  They were perhaps trying to protect the Dalai Lama’s image.
After a few days the perpetrators were arrested and held by local police with minimum security.  Even they could go outside and party and celebrate with local friends and visit with other Dalai Lama followers.
One of the Dorje Shugden followers Thamchoe Nyema, who lives in Boston, Massachusetts, was previously one of the Dorje Shugden community members.  All of a sudden he was infiltrating the community and he called an old friend and said the Dalai Lama would give him support to buy a house in Nepal or help with a monastery in Mongolia.  He offered house and money and assistance with all these things if he abandoned support of the Dorje Shugden group.  He starts conversations with old friends and creates gossip and rumor among Shugden followers and secretly records the conversations.  He then posts this material on YouTube as Boston Real Tibetan Talk.  It was very well met and funded.
Westerners and Tibetan donors give money to the Dalai Lama and his organization give money for this good cause. The Dalai Lama uses the money to eliminate and suppress and harass other Tibetans.
Please support and join the protest against these actions at Vancouver, Canada Birmingham, Alabama, New Jersey, Boston, Massachusetts, and New York City.   This is organized by the International Shugden Community.

Posted by Sonam Rinchen Lama
 Lobsang Dorje

I’ve always known that life is unpredictable. From the time my father left us so suddenly after the family business collapsed, all he left my mother was debt. Life was difficult, so difficult that it was a miracle she put my siblings and I through college, but somehow things worked out. It was these bleak moments in life that drove me to be successful in my career later on, but none of these early beginnings prepared me for what I was going to face in my mid 30s.

At the height of my success, I did everything, tried everything I could imagine, living each day as if it were my last. It was all I ever knew and along the way I earned many enemies for being a world-class annoyance. In the midst of enjoying life to the fullest, my life took an about turn during one of my regular social gatherings with friends and colleagues.

Unknowingly, I had consumed a drink containing illicit drugs. Within minutes, I fell into an epileptic shock and later into a coma. After 17 days absent from the world, I woke up to find the left side of my body completely paralyzed. I fell into depression; it was easier being dead than living with a disability.

That was just the beginning. Throughout the following months, countless problems arose from my being paralyzed. The mismanagement of my companies leading to the closure of one of my factories and 300 people being made redundant was just one of the many. There were also other problems that were fairly insignificant but added to my worries. Worst of all was the disappearance of my fiancé – the person I planned to spend the rest of my life with conveniently left because I was becoming a burden.

I was devastated. Close friends and relatives tried to console me but failed. Even my mother, the person I admired most for her strength, could not do much for me because I could not accept the situation I was in. I became completely self-absorbed, self-pitying and people visited me less often until it reached a point when no one came.

Months of depression went by painfully slowly. My life was a living death, and if euthanasia were legal, I would have lined up for it in my motorized wheelchair. It was during this time when an old friend of mine dropped by for a visit.

She gave me a bag with a present for me and also in the bag, there it was – a little green brochure (similar to the one on this website). I tossed the brochure away; I did not want religion. My friend started explaining how this meditation could heal body, mind and spirit. She was so persistent that I finally gave in, thinking I had nothing to lose, and after all, I could definitely use some healing.

I found my way to this website and devoured its contents in less than a month. There really isn’t much for a partially paralyzed person to do besides reading. I never considered myself a religious person; however I found the Dorje Shugden controversy fairly interesting and that got me reading. Over time, I also started reciting Dorje Shugden’s prayers and even printed out a picture of him that I found on the website.

My interest in Buddhism grew alongside the prayers I was reciting daily. I began reading more extensively about Tibetan Buddhism, particularly Lama Yeshe’s books, which helped me regain some of my confidence and optimism. Dorje Shugden’s prayers in particular eased my mind and after so many months of being trapped in depression, it was a relief to have my mind unclouded gradually, so much so that I was willing to give physical therapy a try.

One year on, I am still partially paralyzed, and my problems are still present, although many of them are slowly dissipating. But I am happier and each day passes with greater hope as I have a more positive outlook on life. I just wanted to share my chance meeting with Dorje Shugden and how it changed my life for the better. I hope this story can perhaps inspire others with similar or even worse conditions, to not give up. Dorje Shugden’s practice is amazing; he lifted me up from my depression and I truly appreciate what he has done for me.

~ Fiete Michi

As the glorious Chandrakirti said:
Any time you have freedom and your state is favourable,
If you do not take their advantage
And lose your freedom by falling to the lower realm,
Who will then raise you up again?

- Pabongka Dorje Chang, Liberation in the Palm of Your Hand

Why Must I Practice?

The greatest thing we can achieve in this life is to be able to liberate ourselves and others from suffering and its causes. To achieve that, we have to achieve the lam-rim, the gradual path to enlightenment through purifying all the negative karma we have collected and accumulate extensive merit.

What is Spiritual Practice?

Spiritual practice is not something mystical that is separate from what we do as we go about our daily business. Often, people think that to be a spiritual person, one must leave the trappings of everyday life and embark on an epic journey to a faraway land in search of awakening.

The truth is, spiritual practice can be incorporated into our daily lives. Many of these practices are readily available and establishing a consistent routine of study and practice ensures our progress along the spiritual path.

Relying on a Spiritual Guide

The Guru is the root of the spiritual path and the foundation of all spiritual attainments, hence the importance of relying on a qualified Spiritual Guide. Just like carpenters and sculptors must first study with a teacher, spiritual aspirants also need to find a guru who is capable of guiding us along the spiritual path.

Without receiving instructions and guidance from a qualified Spiritual Guide, one can never gain realizations or attainments. The Spiritual Guide helps us by giving us vows, empowerments and initiations, teaching us what is to be practised and what is to be avoided, and it is through the teacher that the blessings of the lineage flows.

If you do not have a teacher, it would highly recommended that you search for one living in your area. If you don’t know where to start, this is a list of established lineage masters and spiritual guides and dharma centers that you may wish to consult:

USA

1. H.H. Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche
   Trijang Buddhist Institute
   http://www.tbiusa.org/
2. Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche
   Gadenpa Buddhist Centre
   http://gadenpa.com/
3. Kyabje Gelek Rinpoche
   Jewel Heart Headquarters
   http://www.jewelheart.org/
4. Dagom Tensung Ling Tibetan Buddhist Monastery
   http://www.dgtlmonastery.org/

Canada

1. Zasep Tulku Rinpoche
   Gaden For The West
   http://www.gadenforthewest.org/
2. Zawa Tulku Rinpoche
   Ganden Chang Chub Choling
   http://khenrab.org/

Europe

1. Ven. Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
   Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Center
   http://nkt-kmc-manjushri.org/
2. H.H. Trisur Rinpoche Lungrik Namgyal
   Thar Deu Ling
   http://www.thardeuling.com/
3. H.E. Gangchen Rinpoche
   Albagnano Healing Meditation Centre
   http://ahmc.ngalso.net/
4. Gonsar Tulku Rinpoche
   Rabten Choeling
   http://www.rabten.eu/
5. H.E. Dagyab Kyabgoen Rinpoche
   http://www.dagyab-rinpoche.com/

For more reading on Spiritual Guides:

• Relating to a Spiritual Teacher: Building a Healthy Relationship (2000). Snow Lion Publications.
• Liberation in the Palm of Your hand: A Concise Discourse on the Path to Enlightenment (2006). Wisdom Publications, p. 217-269.
• The Fulfillment of All Hopes: Guru Devotion in Tibetan Buddhism (1996), Wisdom Publications.
• Great Treasury of Merit: How to Rely Upon a Spiritual Guide (1992). Tharpa Publications, p. 1-11

Studies and Practices

Lama Tsongkapa presented a special arrangement of Sutra and Tantra practices which can lead one to full enlightenment in one short lifetime. Below is a summary of the core teachings, beginning with the Lamrim (Stages of the Path), following by Lojong (Training the Mind) and lastly Mahamudra (the actual quick path to enlightenment).

I. LAMRIM (Stages of the Path)

The Lamrim (Stages of the Path) tradition presents a systematic, step-by-step cultivation of the Buddhist path to enlightenment from the point of view of three types of individuals.

First it leads students through the stages of the two lower spiritual motivations – individuals who aspire for a better rebirth, and then those who aspire for individual liberation. It culminates in the presentation of the path for those practicing from the point of view of the highest spiritual motivation, the Mahayana – individuals who aspire to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all living beings.

One studies the Lamrim to gain a panoramic understanding of the general teachings of the Buddha, and then receives the Lojong teachings in order to establish a quintessential regime of daily practice.

For more detailed information on the Lamrim and how to meditate on it, these are some suggested reading materials:

• The Lamp for the Path to Enlightenment (www.lamrim.com)
• Liberation in the Palm of Your hand: A Concise Discourse on the Path to Enlightenment (2006). Wisdom Publications.
• Joyful Path of Good Fortune: The Complete Buddhist Path to Enlightenment (1995). Tharpa Publications
• The Great Treatise on the Stages of the Path to Enlightenment, Volume I (2004). Canada: Snow Lion.
• The Great Treatise on the Stages of the Path to Enlightenment, Volume II (2004). Canada: Snow Lion.
• The Great Treatise on the Stages of the Path to Enlightenment, Volume III (2004). Canada: Snow Lion.

II. LOJONG (Training the Mind)

Lojong is a special formulation of the practical essence of the Lamrim teachings. Atisha embodied the pith of the Lojong teachings in his Lojong Tsa-tsig, and many of Atisha’s own Lojong teachings come to us only through passages found in the Book of the Kadampa Masters.

Two Lojong texts most studied today across all schools of Tibetan Buddhism are Geshe Chekawa’s Seven Points for Training the Mind and Geshe Langri Tangpa’s Eight Verses for Training the Mind.

For more detailed information on Lojong, these are some suggested reading materials:

• Transforming the Mind: Eight Verses on Generating Compassion and Transforming your Life, His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Thorsons
• Mind Training: The Great Collection, Geshe Thupten Jinpa. Wisdom Publications.
• Universal Compassion: Inspiring Solutions for Difficult Times, Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. Tharpa Publications.

III. MAHAMUDRA

“Mahamudra” is a Sanskrit word meaning “great seal” and refers to the nature of all phenomena. It also refers to sophisticated Buddhist systems of meditation and practice to realise this great sealing nature. The distinctive characteristic of the Mahamudra method is the realization of the relationship between mind and reality through focusing on the mind itself.

The Gelug tradition of Mahamudra is known as Gelug-Kagyu because it uses Kagyu-style methods for recognising the conventional nature of mind and then typically Gelug methods for its deepest nature.

For more detailed information on Mahamudra, these are some suggested reading materials:

• The Gelug/Kagyu Tradition of Mahamudra, H.H. the Dalai Lama and Berzin, Alexander (1997). Ithaca, Snow Lion.
• Becoming the Compassion Buddha: Tantric Mahamudra for Everyday Life. Lama Thubten Yeshe. (2003). Wisdom Publications.
• Mahamudra Tantra – An Introduction to Meditation on Tantra, Geshe Kelsang Gyatso (2005). Tharpa Publications.

IV. PRELIMINARY PRACTICES

The purpose of preliminary practices is to purify ourselves of the grossest level of obstacles and build up positive force so that our studies and meditations will be more efficacious in bringing us to enlightenment.

Positive force or “merit,” refers to the conducive internal state that results from constructive, or “virtuous” actions of body, speech, mind and heart.

The preliminary practices are sometimes enumerated as five or nine:

1. Refuge: One recites Namo Gurubhya, Namo Buddhaya, Namo Dharmaya, Namo Sanghaya while visualizing the field of positive potential.
2. Prostrations: One prostrates to the 35 Confessional Buddhas, while reciting their names and the confessional prayer.
3. Mandala Offerings: One recites the Refuge and Bodhicitta prayers and the mandala offering verses, while visualizing offering the entire universe and everything beautiful in it to the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha.
4. Vajrasattva (Dorje Sempa) Mantra: One recites the Vajrasattva 100-syllable mantra along with Vajrasattva practice and the accompanying visualizations.
5. Samayavajra (Damtsig Dorje) mantra: One recites the mantra of this Buddha together with the appropriate visualizations.
6. Dorje Khadro (Vajra Daka): Imagining black sesame seeds as the negativities of ourselves and others, one offers them in a fire to the mouth of the fierce deity Dorje Khadro, who swallows them with pleasure as if they were nectar.
7. Water Offerings: This involves offering bowls of water to the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha, together with the accompanying visualizations.
8. Guru Yoga: One meditates on the inseparability of the Buddha’s mind, the Spiritual Guide’s mind and one’s own mind, together with visualization and mantra recitation.
9. Tsa-tsas: One creates clay or plaster images of the Buddhas.

It is important to know that even the Mahamudra teachings also emphasize the importance and need for extensive preliminary practices.

For more explanations on preliminary practices, these are some suggested reading materials:

• Preliminary practice (Ngondro) overview, Thubten Chodron
  http://thubtenchodron.org/2009/09/clearing-and-enriching-mind/

V. GURU YOGA

In order for realizations to ripen within our mind, we need to receive the Spiritual Guide’s blessings through the practice of Guru Yoga. Therefore, we should begin each preliminary practice with the particular guru yoga that we are able to do, such as the Six-Session Guru Yoga, the Guru Puja ( Lama Chöpa), the Guru Yoga of Lama Tsongkapa (Ganden Lha Gyäma) or the Guru Yogas of various deities for which we have received permission to practice.

For more explanations on Guru Yoga, these are some suggested reading materials:

• The Union of Bliss and Emptiness: Teachings on the Practice of Guru Yoga, Dalai Lama. (2009). Snow Lion Publications.
• Hundreds of Deities of Tusita: Commentary on Lama Tsongkhapa Guru Yoga, H.E. Chöden Rinpoche (2013). Awakening Vajra Publications.
• Heart Jewel: The Essential Practices of Kadampa Buddhism, Geshe Kelsang Gyatso (1997). Tharpa Publications.

VI. RELYING ON THE DHARMA PROTECTOR DORJE SHUGDEN

The principal function of a Dharma Protector is to protect Dharma teachings, lineages and practitioners. If one studies the nature and function of Dorje Shugden, one will develop great faith and clearly understand the benefits of relying upon this Dharma Protector.

Dorje Shugden helps, guides, and protects pure and faithful practitioners by granting blessings, increasing wisdom, fulfilling wishes, and bestowing success on all virtuous activities. His powerful mandala and retinue are the synthesis of the Three Jewels – Buddha, Dharma and Sangha. Many sadhanas of Dorje Shugden state that Dorje Shugden is the embodiment of the ‘Guru, Yidam, and Protector’.

For more explanations about relying on Dorje Shugden, these are some suggested reading materials:

• Introduction to Dorje Shugden
  http://www.dorjeshugden.com/all-articles/features/introduction-to-dorje-shugden/
• The Way to Rely Upon Dorje Shugden
  http://www.dorjeshugden.com/all-articles/features/the-way-to-rely-upon-dorje-shugden/
• What Gyalchen Dorje Shugden Wants
  http://www.dorjeshugden.com/all-articles/features/what-gyalchen-dorje-shugden-wants/
• Nature and Function
  http://www.dorjeshugden.com/all-articles/features/the-nature-and-function-of-dorje-shugden/
• Dharma Demystified: The Mantra of Dorje Shugden
  http://www.dorjeshugden.com/all-articles/dharma-readings/dharma-demystified-the-mantra-of-dorje-shugden/
• Dharma Demystified: Melody of the Unceasing Vajra
  http://www.dorjeshugden.com/all-articles/dharma-readings/dharma-demystified-melody-of-the-unceasing-vajra/
• The Benefits of Dorje Shugden’s Puja
  http://www.dorjeshugden.com/all-articles/dharma-readings/the-benefits-of-dorje-shugdens-puja/

Rabten Choeling is one of the first Tibetan Buddhist monasteries to be established in the West after the exodus of Tibetans into India. Located 820m above sea level on Mount-Pelerin, above Lake Geneva in Vevey, Switzerland, the centre is an institute for Higher Tibetan studies and the pursuit of Tibetan Buddhist practices. At present, there are about 30 monks, 5 nuns and 20 lay students living in the centre.

Early Beginnings: Geshe Tamdrin Rabten Rinpoche

Geshe Tamdrin Rabten Rinpoche

Rabten Choeling was founded by Geshe Tamdrin Rabten Rinpoche. After escaping from Tibet, Geshe Rabten Rinpoche along with Kyabje Ling Rinpoche was appointed as His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama’s advisor on philosophical matters.

Later in 1974, at the request of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Geshe Rabten moved to Switzerland to serve as the Abbot of Rikon Monastery in Tosstal. During this time, Geshe Rabten and a handful of monks lived in a rented house in the tiny hamlet of Schwendi, located 4 km from Rikon Monastery.

Geshe Rabten with a group of monastics in Rikon Monastery in 1976

H.H. the Dalai Lama gave a discourse on adaptating to Western civilization at Rikon Monastery, Switzerland, 6 October 1973

Geshe Rabten was an extraordinary lama, able to explain Buddhism and Buddhist philosophy with powerful clarity. Combined with his understanding of the Western mind and ideas, Geshe Rabten quickly gained a following of Western students and became the pioneer in spreading Tibetan Buddhism in Western Europe. It was also during this time that Geshe Rabten started training Westerners to become qualified Buddhist teachers in their own right.

Geshe Rabten Rinpoche in Dharamsala, India with his Western students

A year and a half later, Geshe Rabten and his entourage of students moved into Le Colibri, a larger property in Mount Pelerin, which later came to be known as Tharpa Choeling. A strong and closely knit Buddhist community was formed and enthusiastic lay students began settling down in the area, each finding their own unique way to contribute to the growing Dharma community. Some studied, while others helped with the more mundane works such as administration, finances, kitchen work and even gardening.

Venerable Abbot Geshe Tamdrin Rabten (with sunglasses) and the monks of Tharpa Choeling in 1978. From left to right: Glaude Grenier, Stephen Schettini, Christopher Pace, Laurence Williamson, Brian Grabia, Arnold Possick, Dominique Monmayeul, Stephen Batchelor, Helmut Gassner, Eckart Zabel, Bruno Le Guevel, Alan Wallace, Geshe Tamdrin Rabten, Geshe Jhampa Lhodro, Geshe Gendun Zangpo, Elio Guarisco and Gen Lo Norbu on the occasion of the novice ordination of Laurence, Dominique and Eckart

A younger Geshe Rabten Rinpoche

The Geneva Group

Anne Ansermet

Comprising of businessmen and industrialists, the Geneva group was led by Anne Ansermet, daughter of a famous Swiss conductor, Ernest. Coming from a privileged background, Anne was well-connected to the movers and shakers of the day, and it was this group that arranged and financed the purchase of Le Colibri. They funded the institute, put visas in passports, and provided sufficient funding for living expenses and books.

At the age of 70, Anne was drawn to Buddhism and even traveled to India to be ordained by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. She was an amazing woman to whom the residents of Tharpa Choeling owed much of their spiritual pursuits. It was the hard work of Anne and her group that allowed the ordained and lay people in Tharpa Choeling to live a life of study and contemplation without having to worry about their material needs.

The Geneva group on the other hand, approved of the study programs in Tharpa Choeling, confident that their hard work, money and time were well spent, and that things were moving in the right direction to help disseminate Buddhism in the West.

Anne Ansermet in Dharamsala with His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama

His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama Visits

In the summer of 1979, Geshe Rabten invited His Holiness the Dalai Lama to Switzerland. It was in Tharpa Choeling that His Holiness the Dalai Lama gave his first public teaching in the West. Under the direction of Geshe Rabten, Stephen Batchelor was placed in-charge of organizing the Dalai Lama’s visit. He was given a total budget of 30’000 Swiss Francs to prepare for a free public teaching by the Dalai Lama to accommodate 1,000 attendees.

At that time, the organizing committee’s request to the Swiss police for security forces was declined with the argument that “The Dalai Lama is not an endangered person”. On top of that, despite intensive advertising, only about 900 attendees turned up for the Dalai Lama’s teaching.

1979: His Holiness Dalai Lama (left) in Tharpa Choeling, Mt Pelerin, Switzerland humbly sat on a few cushions instead of the throne prepared for Him. Seated beside the Dalai Lama are translators: B. Alan Wallace (centre) and Helmut Gassner (right)
(Photo by Fred von Allmen)

1979: His Holiness the Dalai Lama gives his first public teaching in the West in Tharpa Choeling, with B. Alan Wallace and Helmut Gassner translating

10 Years Later: H.E. Gonsar Tulku Rinpoche

H.E. Gonsar Rinpoche

H.E. Gonsar Rinpoche, one of Geshe Rabten’s closest disciples, served his teacher for 33 years until Geshe Rabten’s passing in 1986. Gonsar Rinpoche considered it his personal responsibility to continue Geshe Rabten’s works, and Tharpa Choeling was renamed to Rabten Choeling in Geshe Rabten’s memory. At present, Gonsar Rinpoche is the director of Rabten Choeling as well as other Rabten centres across Europe.

Gonsar Rinpoche also led the search for Geshe Rabten’s incarnation, Tenzin Rabgye Rinpoche. Born in India in 1987, he now lives at Rabten Choeling under the care and tutelage of Gonsar Rinpoche. In the spring of 1998, the then ten-year-old Tenzin Rabgye Rinpoche gave his first teaching in front of 200 people in Rabten Choeling.

H.E. Tenzin Rabgye Rinpoche

Trijang Rinpoche and Rabten Choeling

Rabten Choeling was also host to H.H. Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche during his younger days. Due to increasing hostility against practitioners of the dharma protector Dorje Shugden, Trijang Rinpoche, a great Dorje Shugden proponent, had received several death threats from the Secret Society of External and Internal Enemy Eliminators which forced him to relocate to Switzerland for his own safety.

Having since moved to USA and established Trijang Buddhist Institute in Vermont, Trijang Rinpoche continues to maintain close ties with Rabten Choeling, especially with Tenzin Rabgye Rinpoche and Gonsar Rinpoche.

Kyabje Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche visits Rabten Choeling in 2012

Rabten Choeling Today

Rabten Choeling is both a monastery and an international school with students from 14 different countries. The sangha of Rabten Choeling perform daily prayers, monastic rites such as sangha confessionals, summer retreats and monthly pujas in the centre. Several guest rooms are available in the centre for retreats and for those interested to visit the monastery.

The residents of Rabten Choeling conduct prayer recitations twice a day, at 7 am and 6 pm, except during the weekends. Tsok offerings are also performed every fortnight according to the Tibetan calendar. A general class is held every Sunday, 3 pm, and several public seminars are conducted throughout the year.

Rabten Choeling Monastery

Centre des Hautes Etudes Tibétaines
Chemin Derochoz 2
1801 Le Mont-Pèlerin
Vevey, Switzerland
Phone: +41 21 9213600
E-mail: info@rabten.ch
Website: http://www.rabten.eu/visitSwiss_en.htm

More pictures of Rabten Choeling

Rabten Choeling Monastery in Switzerland

Front view of Rabten Choeling

Inside Rabten Choeling

Regular blessings ceremonies are conducted

The Dorje Shugden altar in Rabten Choeling

The magnificent view from Rabten Choeling

Prayer flags around the monastery

The International Shugden Community is once again on the move, this time taking the peaceful demonstrations to Vancouver, Canada during the Dalai Lama’s teachings from 21-23 October 2014. Both ISC members and Tibetan Shugdenpas stood united, requesting the Dalai Lama to lift the ban on Dorje Shugden.

DorjeShugden.com brings you the latest news, photos and videos of the Vancouver demonstrations, compiled for your convenience. If you have more pictures or information to share, please email us at ds@dorjeshugden.com.

Admin

News Coverage

THE UBESSEY

Click to enlarge

Source: http://ubyssey.ca/news/the-dalai-lamas-arrival-at-ubc-sparks-protesters-supporters-629/

BURNABY NEWSLEADER

Click to enlarge

Source: http://www.burnabynewsleader.com/lifestyles/280219822.html

WND

Click on image

Source: http://www.wnd.com/2014/10/dalai-lama-accused-of-religious-persecution/

24 HOURS VANCOUVER

Click to enlarge

Source: http://vancouver.24hrs.ca/2014/10/21/groups-wage-dalai-duel

EXAMINER

Click to enlarge

Source: http://www.examiner.com/article/dalai-lama-speaks-about-educating-the-heart-canada

HUFFINGTON POST

Click to enlarge

Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2014/10/22/dalai-lama-vancouver_n_6030924.html

METRO NEWS VANCOUVER

Click on image

Source: http://metronews.ca/news/vancouver/1190199/dalai-lama-inspires-hearts-and-minds-in-vancouver/

Photos of the Vancouver Demonstrations

Video Coverage of the Vancouver Demonstrations

Protest Against the Dalai lama By Dorje Shugden Followers, Vancouver, Canada. Oct 21st -2014

From Tibetan Public Talk

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

or watch on our server:
http://video.dorjeshugden.com/videos/demonstration_nov2014/211014-tpt-vancouver.flv

Protest against the Dalai lama (Day 2 – 22nd October 2014) Vancouver, Canada

From Tibetan Public Talk

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

or watch on our server:
http://video.dorjeshugden.com/videos/demonstration_nov2014/221014-tpt-vancouver.flv

You have to consider the tactics of the CTA and His Holiness the Dalai Lama in pursuit of the ’freedom’ of Tibet has not borne fruit. They have been courting Western Governments for the last 50 years which is not working as they all believe Tibet is part of China. The West has no influence over the sovereign and powerful nation of China in relations to Tibet. No Western Government can force China to do anything if they do not wish to. The West needs China but not Tibet. The axis of power is shifting towards the East and specifically to China. The courting of Western powers has gotten CTA sponsorship for their activities in Dharamsala and that is about it. Has this achieved the purpose of the Tibetan nation in obtaining their so called independence or autonomy? Of course not. CTA is not any closer at all to this end, if anything farther from their goal. The Tibetan leadership should have changed their tactics long ago and should have become friends with China. To stop all activities that irritate China and harm further what’s left of the bilateral relations. China does not need CTA but on the contrary. China is as big as the planet Jupiter compared to the Tibetan leadership in Dharamsala which is likened to a floating tiny asteroid without any destination. The asteroid can do no damage to Jupiter whatsoever.

The Dorje Shugden people are accused of taking money from China and befriending China. Which is really not true. But if that is the case, CTA should do what the purported Shugden people are doing. Making friends with China and cooperating with them will help Chinese leaders become less hardline and change their policies in Tibet towards preserving religion, culture and language. China can do anything they want in Tibet and if the world is not happy, what happens? A torrent of hate China messages appear on social media and then it blows over as usual. No Western government will interfere and take action against China. Their economies are intimately intertwined. No Western nation will jeopardize their hundreds of billions if not trillions in trade deals with China for Tibet. Tibet has nothing to offer the world in the economic sense. Tibet has offered the Dalai Lama but he does not generate or sustain the national economy. The Dalai Lama is now 79 years old and how long more can he live? Once the Dalai Lama is no more, you will not see another able Tibetan leader step into his shoes and have any effect on any government. If someone could replace the Dalai Lama they would be wise to be friends with China. The straightforward and carve-in-stone fact is that Tibet is part of China and it would be wise for Tibetans to make friends with China to better the life of their countrymen.

Since the Shugden lamas in Tibet are friends with China as Tibet is a part of China and they really don’t have a choice, it would be wise to not suppress the practice of Dorje Shugden and hurt the sentiments of these powerful lamas with their powerful connections. All funds, buildings, roads, schools, hospitals, approvals, public services in Tibet comes from the Chinese government funding. What further need is there to explain the simple equation that CTA must make friends with China. If the Tibetans inside Tibet and outside of Tibet work with the Chinese government, relations will grow and it will become easier for all Tibetans in every sense. Tibetan Leadership and Dalai Lama should make friends with the Dorje Shugden lamas in Tibet and around the world to open better communications with Beijing. In fact, the friendlier CTA are, the better it will benefit the preservation of Tibetan language, religion and culture within Tibet. Since China supports the growth of Dorje Shugden monasteries and Lamas, CTA will be wiser if they don’t contradict this policy. To ban Shugden practice, Shugden practitioners, Shugden lamas and ostracize them is the wrong move by the CTA. The more they ban Shugden, the bigger China will help Shugden to grow bigger to oppose CTA. Once the 79 year old Dalai Lama is no more, Tibet and Tibetans will have to embrace or at least peacefully tolerate Shugden practice. Better they remove the ban against Shugden and start humbling themselves and start contacting China. Stop locking horns with China as CTA’s horns are no match for China. You see, it’s very simple. China can do whatever they like in Tibet and CTA has no say at all. If CTA wants to play hardball, they will be the loser in the end as they have no power over Tibet. Some Tibetans accuse Shugden Tibetans for selling out their country by being friendly with China. This is just plain illogical hysteria meted out by CTA to cover their failures. Tibet is a part of China and that is a fact. By Tibetans being friendly with China, they are making friends with the nation they belong to and making it easier for other Tibetans living within Tibet.  For the last 50 years, has there been any progress in solving the Tibet question from the side of the CTA? The answer is sadly no. CTA needs to remove the ban as this offends China and humble down and request for fresh talks agreeing to China’s demands while the Dalai Lama is alive. If not, it will be inevitable after the Dalai Lama has passed on, all Tibetans will have to cooperate with China.

Kay Beswick

***

‘We are not in favor of independence’: President Barack Obama reiterates U.S. position that Tibet is part of China

• Obama said he encouraged Chinese authorities ‘to take steps to preserve the unique cultural, religious and linguistic identity of the Tibetan people’

• He shared the same viewpoint with exiled Tibetan leader His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama when he visited the White House earlier this year

• The Dalai Lama told Obama during their meeting that he doesn’t want independence for Tibet – he wants autonomy

• Obama also said today that he and Chinese President Xi Jinping ‘had a very healthy exchange’ about human rights issues

• ‘China stands ready to have dialogue with the United States on human rights issues,’ Xi told reporters

By Francesca Chambers for MailOnline

Published: 10:14 EST, 12 November 2014 | Updated: 12:42 EST, 12 November 2014

President Barack Obama reaffirmed on Wednesday the United States’ position that Tibet is ‘part of the People’s Republic of China.’

‘We are not in favor of independence,’ Obama said during a joint press conference in Beijing with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

‘But we did encourage Chinese authorities to take steps to preserve the unique cultural, religious and linguistic identity of the Tibetan people,’ the U.S. leader said.

No change: President Barack Obama said today during a press conference with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing that the U.S. still does not support independence for Tibet

Obama, left, is pictured here shaking hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, after a joint press conference at the Great Hall of People. Obama paid a state visit to China after attending the 22nd Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting

Obama has been unwavering in his stance that Tibet should remain under the control of China, sharing the same viewpoint with exiled Tibetan leader His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama when he visited the White House earlier this year.

After the February meeting the White House said in a statement similar to the one offered by Obama today that the president expressed ‘strong support’ for traditions and ‘the protection of human rights for Tibetans.’

‘The President stressed that he encourages direct dialogue to resolve long-standing differences and that a dialogue that produces results would be positive for China and Tibetans,’ the White House said, and explained that the U.S. does not back independence for the region.

In response, the White House said the Dalai Lama ‘stated that he is not seeking independence for Tibet and hopes that dialogue between his representatives and the Chinese government will resume.’

Careful not to anger the Chinese, who said at the time that the meeting was ‘a gross interference in China’s internal affairs’ and ‘a serious violation of the norms of international relation,’ the White House kept the president’s hour-long one on one with spiritual leader of Tibet mostly quiet, keeping both his entrance and exit from the president’s home out of sight from photographers.

In today’s overseas press conference Obama advocated on behalf of Tibet without formally taking its side in its dispute with China, citing ‘America’s unwavering support for fundamental human rights of all people.’

Obama said he and President Xi ‘had a very healthy exchange around these issues,’ and he told the Chinese head that ‘it is so important for us to speak out for the freedoms that we believe are universal, rights that we believe are the birthright of all men and women, wherever they live, whether it is in New York or Paris or Hong Kong.’

Continuing, Obama said, ‘We think history shows that nations that uphold these rights – including for ethnic and religious minorities – are ultimately more prosperous, more successful, and more able to achieve the dreams of their people.’

President Obama is pictured here meeting with His Holiness the Dalai Lama in the Map Room of the White House on Feb. 18, 2010. The president traditionally meets with important world leaders in the Oval Office, but when the exiled Tibetan leader comes, he alway speaks with him in the less prestigious setting

The Dalai Lama, left, wasn’t event allowed to exit the White House through the front door when he visited Obama in 2010. He was forced to walk out the doors of the Palm Room, passing by trash bags waiting to be picked up due to delays from a snow storm

In a statement following Obama’s remarks President Xi said he had a ‘candid discussion’ with his U.S. counterpart on the topic of human rights. He then pointed out that ‘over the last three decades and more of China’s reform and opening era, China has made enormous progress in its human rights.

‘That is a fact recognized by all the people in the world,’ he added, according to a White House transcript of the press conference.

That said, ‘we should never consider our work to be mission accomplished,’ Xi told reporters. ‘It’s always work in progress, and there is always room for further improvement.

‘China stands ready to have dialogue with the United States on human rights issues on the basis of equality and mutual respect so that we can constructively handle our differences, deepen our mutual understanding, and learn from each other.’

The U.S. has always walked a tightrope in regards to its relations with both China, a fellow world power that holds a significant amount of U.S. debt, and Tibet, whom it recognizes has been mistreated at the hands of the Chinese.

Since a 1959 uprising in Tibet, the country’s leader has lived in exile in India. China has subsequently painted him as a subversive whom the international community cannot trust.

The Dalai Lama professes non-violence in the battle for autonomy in his native region, but the Chinese say he is a ‘wolf in sheep’s clothing’ and privately supports a violent takeover.

‘The Dalai is definitely not a pure religious figure. He is using the cloak of religion to engage in long-term activities to separate China. He is a political exile,’ Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said in a statement preceding the February 2014 meeting.

Meanwhile, human rights groups have accused China of using perverted methods themselves to keep Tibet’s residents in line.

The U.S. State Department even issued a report in 2012 acknowledging the abuses and noted that ‘the government’s respect for and protection of human rights…deteriorated markedly’ in the preceding year.

‘Under the banner of maintaining social stability, the government engaged in the severe repression of Tibet’s unique religious, cultural, and linguistic heritage by, among other means, strictly curtailing the civil rights of China’s ethnic Tibetan population, including the freedoms of speech, religion, association, and movement,’ reads the State Department’s report.

‘Other serious human rights abuses included extrajudicial killings, torture, arbitrary arrests, extrajudicial detentions, and house arrests,’ it said.

According to Reuters, more than 120 Tibetans – mostly monks and nuns – have protested China’s brutal rule of the territory by lighting themselves of fire.

Smile for the cameras: President Xi and Obama participate in a welcoming ceremony at the Great Hall of the People upon Obama’s arrival

The U.S. and China have long been on shaky terms and Obama has tried to bolster the relationship by staying neutral in the country’s dispute with Tibet while acknowledging that parent country has oppressed and abused Tibet’s people

During the Dalai Lama’s visit to Washington, D.C. nine months ago, then-White House Press Secretary Jay Carney told reporters the Obama administration was ‘concerned about continuing tensions and that the deteriorating human rights situation in Tibetan areas of China.’

As such, the Obama spokesman said, ‘We will continue to urge the Chinese government to resume dialogue with the Dalai Lama or his representatives without pre-conditions as a means to reduce tensions.’

The visit marked the third time the president had invited the ‘internationally respected religious and cultural leader’ to the White House since taking office. Previously the Dalai Lama and Obama met in February of 2010 and July of 2011.

After the 2010 meeting, the Dalai Lama was photographed leaving 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue unceremoniously through a side door, where piles of not yet disposed trash were heaped in the snow.

This year photographers never said the Nobel Peace Prize laureate coming or going. However, the White House said the meeting was held in the Map Room – not the prestigious Oval Office where the president usually holds important meetings and entertains world leaders.

No U.S. president has ever sat down with the Dalai Lama in the Oval Office, the White House has said.

The snubs are ostensibly meant to cool tensions with the Chinese over the assignations, though the White House refused in February to go on the record with an explanation.

‘We don’t have photographers in every meeting the president has,’ Carney told inquiring reporters.

THE TIBET TANGO

World leaders have struggled for years to find appropriate ways to maintain positive relations with the Dalai Lama while remaining loyal to China, which often punishes countries whose heads show favoritism to the exiled cultural and spiritual icon.

China suspended high-level diplomatic ties with Britain in 2012 for the next year in response to British Prime Minister Cameron and Deputy PM Nick Clegg’s decision to meet with the Dalai Lama in London.

Afterward, Cameron refused to apologize for the face to face discussion, but he did promise not to visit with His Holiness again any time soon.

China also broke off diplomatic communications with Norway after it awarded a Chinese dissident the Nobel Peace Prize in 2010.

Seeking to avoid a new confrontation with China, Norwegian officials refused to see the Dalai Lama earlier this year when he came to the country to celebrate the 25th anniversary of his own Nobel Prize.

After German Chancellor Angela Merkel entertained the exiled Tibetan leader in 2007, China bowed out of forthcoming meeting in the country on the protection of intellectual property rights ‘for technical reasons.’

Likewise, China called off a summit with the European Union in 2008 after then-French President and EU head Nicolas Sarkozy agreed to meet the Dalai Lama and other Nobel Prize winners while in Poland.

President Barack Obama has met with the Dalai Lama three times since taking office. And while the Chinese government has responded with outrage every time, the U.S. has not been shunned the way European countries have fit its actions.

‘Internationally, if Beijing does not show anger or protest in the strongest terms, the fear is that many heads of states will meet the Dalai Lama,’ Wenran Jiang, a professor of political science professor at the University of Alberta, told CNN after Obama’s first meeting with His Holiness.

‘So Chinese leaders want to show as much disincentives as possible, even though they know they cannot stop such meetings.’

Reported by: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2831586/We-not-favor-independence-President-Barack-Obama-reiterates-U-S-position-Tibet-China.html

Two days after demonstrating in Birmingham, Alabama Shugdenpas from both the International Shugden Community and and the local Tibetan community followed the Dalai Lama to his next teaching venue in Princeton University, New Jersey, which was held on 28 October 2014.

DorjeShugden.com has been closely following the protests organised by our fellow Shugdenpas to bring our readers this compilation of news, pictures and videos. If you have more pictures or information to share, please email us at ds@dorjeshugden.com.

Admin

News Coverage

THE DAILY PRINCETONIAN

Click to enlarge

Source: http://dailyprincetonian.com/news/2014/10/group-to-protest-dalai-lama-talk-at-princeton-next-week/

Click to enlarge

Source: http://dailyprincetonian.com/news/2014/10/amid-protests-dalai-lama-maintains-jovial-atmosphere/

CENTRAL JERSEY

Click to enlarge

Source: http://www.centraljersey.com/articles/2014/10/20/the_princeton_packet/featured/doc5445773cb8016373065586.txt

Click to enlarge

Source: http://www.centraljersey.com/articles/2014/10/30/topstory/doc5451463e59502228197098.txt

TOWN TOPICS

Click to enlarge

Source: http://www.towntopics.com/wordpress/2014/10/29/university-welcomes-dalai-lama/

THE REPORTER

Click to enlarge

Source: http://www.thereporteronline.com/general-news/20141029/thousands-attend-dalai-lama-event-at-princeton

NBC

Click to enlarge

Source: http://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/Buddhist-Group-Plans-Protest-280497672.html#ixzz3IqybIO52

NEWS NETWORKS

Click to enlarge

Source: http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/local/new-jersey/74354-as-dalai-lama-visits-princeton-university-buddhist-group-plans-protest-

DAILY REPORTER

Click to enlarge

Source: http://www.greenfieldreporter.com/view/story/aa96ff5a3bad427eb221888f86cbc662/NJ–Dalai-Lama-Princeton

NJ.COM

Click to enlarge

Source: http://www.nj.com/mercer/index.ssf/2014/10/group_protests_dalai_lama_at_princeton_university_claiming_discrimination_human_rights_violations.html

Click to enlarge

Source: http://www.nj.com/mercer/index.ssf/2014/10/live_report_dalai_lamas_develop_the_heart_talk_taking_place_at_princeton_university.html

Click to enlarge

Source: http://www.nj.com/mercer/index.ssf/2014/10/dalai_lama_to_princeton_university_students_you_should_be_active_in_order_to_achieve_a_happy_world.html

Photos of the Princeton Demonstrations

Video Coverage of the Princeton Demonstrations

Calling for Religious Freedom at Princeton University

From ISC News

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

or watch on our server:
http://video.dorjeshugden.com/videos/demonstration_nov2014/Oct2014-isc-news-calling-for-religious-freedom-princeton-university.flv

Dalai Lama Give Religious Freedom (NJ.com)

From NJ.com

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

or watch on our server:
http://video.dorjeshugden.com/videos/demonstration_nov2014/oct2014-nj-princeton-false-dl.flv

Dalai Lama Visits Princeton University (NJTV News)

From NJTV News

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

or watch on our server:
http://video.dorjeshugden.com/videos/demonstration_nov2014/oct2014-njtv-princeton-dl-visits-princeton-uni.flv

Following on the heels of protests in Princeton, New Jersey, devoted Shugden practitioners comprised of local Tibetans and the International Shugden Community followed the Dalai Lama to demonstrate at his upcoming teachings in Boston, in hope that he would heed their plea for religious freedom.

• 30th October 2014: Wang Centre for Performing Arts
• 31st October 2014: Boston Marriott Copley
• 01st November 2014: TD Gardens

DorjeShugden.com has been closely following the protests organised by our fellow Shugdenpas to bring our readers this compilation of news, pictures and videos. If you have more pictures or information to share, please email us at ds@dorjeshugden.com.

Admin

News Coverage

GLOBAL POST

Click to enlarge

Source: http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/regions/asia-pacific/141030/why-demonstrators-trolling-dalai-lama-us-tour

KOUW.ORG

Click to enlarge

Source: http://kuow.org/post/breakaway-buddhists-take-aim-dalai-lama

MY FOX BOSTON

Click to enlarge

Source: http://www.myfoxboston.com/story/27172951/dalai-lama-speaking-at-boston-hotel-and-mit

WASHINGTON TIMES

Click to enlarge

Source: http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2014/oct/31/dalai-lama-speaking-at-boston-hotel-and-mit/

PORTLAND PRESS HERALD

Click to enlarge

Source: http://www.pressherald.com/2014/11/01/protests-greet-dalai-lama-at-events-in-massachusetts/

PRI – BBC World

Radio report on PRI – BBC on the demonstration held in front of the Wang Theatre

Photos of the Boston Demonstrations

Video Coverage of the Boston Demonstrations

Dalai Lama’s Arrival Raises Controversy in Boston

From Boston Herald

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

or watch on our server:
http://video.dorjeshugden.com/videos/demonstration_nov2014/31102014-bostonherald-dl-arrival-raises-controversy.flv

Boston Stands for Religious Freedom

From ISC News

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

or watch on our server:
http://video.dorjeshugden.com/videos/demonstration_nov2014/01112014-BostonStandsforReligiousFreedom.flv

ISC protests in Boston: We will not be silenced

From ISC News

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

or watch on our server:
http://video.dorjeshugden.com/videos/demonstration_nov2014/01112014-ISC-protests-boston-we-will-not-be-silenced.flv

Protest against the Dalai Lama and Robert Thurman. Boston, U.S.A Oct 31st 2014

From Dorje Shugden Tibetan Followers

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

or watch on our server:
http://video.dorjeshugden.com/videos/demonstration_nov2014/31102014-dstf-protest-against-dl-and-thurman.flv

Shugden practitioners demonstrate at TD Garden, Boston

From Dorje Shugden Tibetan Followers

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

or watch on our server:
http://video.dorjeshugden.com/videos/demonstration_nov2014/01112014-ISC-td-garden-boston.flv

Protest during Dalai Lama’s teachings at Wang Theatre, Boston

From Dorje Shugden Tibetan Followers

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

or watch on our server:
http://video.dorjeshugden.com/videos/demonstration_nov2014/30102014-ISC-wang-theatre-boston.flv

New York City was the final destination in the Dalai Lama’s recent USA tour, where he was scheduled to give a 3-day teaching. Once again, the Dalai Lama had to face both Western and Tibetan Shugden practitioners, who were peacefully demonstrating for religious freedom at the various locations where the Dalai Lama was scheduled to appear.

• 2nd November 2014: Manhattan Center
• 3rd and 4th November 2014: Beacon Theater

DorjeShugden.com has been closely following the protests organised by our fellow Shugdenpas to bring our readers this compilation of news, pictures and videos. If you have more pictures or information to share, please email us at ds@dorjeshugden.com.

Admin

News Coverage

THE EXAMINER

Click to enlarge

Source: http://www.examiner.com/article/the-dalai-lama-accused-of-discrimination

BLOOMBERG NYC

Click to enlarge

Source: http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-11-02/nyc-protesters-say-dalai-lama-rejects-their-buddhist-sect.html

CBS NYC

Click to enlarge

Source: http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2014/11/04/buddhist-group-protests-dalai-lamas-nyc-visit/

HUFFINGTON POST

Click to enlarge

Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/11/04/dalai-lama-new-york_n_6097362.html?ir=Religion

THE TECH

Click to enlarge

Source: http://tech.mit.edu/V134/N52/dalailama.html

SOUTH COAST TODAY

Click to enlarge

Source: http://www.southcoasttoday.com/article/20141106/Opinion/141109502

Photos of the NYC Demonstrations

Video Coverage of the New York City Demonstrations

Proud to be Shugden

From ISC News

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

or watch on our server:
http://video.dorjeshugden.com/videos/demonstration_nov2014/nov2014-isc-proud-to-be-shugden.flv

The Dalai Lama’s Religious Intolerance Spreads to the US

From ISC News

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

or watch on our server:
http://video.dorjeshugden.com/videos/demonstration_nov2014/nov2014-isc-dl-religious-intolerance.flv

One Flag: Buddhism

From ISC News

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

or watch on our server:
http://video.dorjeshugden.com/videos/demonstration_nov2014/nov2014-isc-one-flag.flv

Protest against the Dalai Lama at Beacon Theatre, NYC

From ISC News

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

or watch on our server:
http://video.dorjeshugden.com/videos/demonstration_nov2014/nov2014-beacon-theater-nyc-iscfb.flv

The opinion piece below was sent to dorjeshugden.com for publication. We accept submissions from the public, please send in your articles to ds@dorjeshugden.com.

As peaceful protests against the Dalai Lama over his ban on the worship of Shugden intensify, his propaganda machine ─ the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) ─ have endeavored to portray Shugden devotees as a group of violence-prone extremists who collaborate with and are funded by Beijing. Discrediting those who refuse to bow down to the Dalai Lama’s authority within the Tibetan Diaspora is nothing new.

Behind Tenzin Gyatso’s veneer of enlightenment lies a secret dark history of repressions and human rights abuses, committed against the very people he is supposed to protect.

The Shugden community is aptly described as the latest victim of the Dalai Lama’s prolonged attempt to establish an absolute powerbase among the exiled Tibetans throughout the world. It is by no means the first to have been targeted by the Dalai Lama and the CTA.

H.H. Dudjom Rinpoche

In 1963, His Holiness Dudjom Rinpoche, acknowledged as head of the Nyingma school within Tibetan Buddhism, was arrested in Siliguri by the Indian authorities on charges of espionage for the Chinese. Although he was later released, it was whispered that his popularity with Tibetans was seen as a threat to the Dalai Lama.

Not only did Dudjom Rinpoche have many followers, he was also opposed to the idea that all Tibetan Buddhist schools should be amalgamated under the leadership of the Dalai Lama. On being asked what his opinion was on the issue of amalgamation, Dudjom Rinpoche said,

Part of our purpose is to preserve all lineages as methods for attaining enlightenment. We should sustain our own tradition while respecting and rejoicing in the virtue of other traditions.

From Dudjom Rinpoche’s statement, it was evident the Nyingmapas were ready to co-exist with the other traditions within Tibetan Buddhism. Yet, later on, the Dalai Lama would declare that the reason for their reluctance to work with the others was because they could not abide Shugden followers.

It wasn’t enough for the Dalai Lama that the head of the Nyingmapas had been accused of being a Chinese spy. His followers had to be set against the Shugdenpas as well. Obviously, the price of disobedience to the dictates of the Dalai Lama was very high indeed.

If anyone were to ask why the Indian authorities would act as the henchmen of the Dalai Lama by arresting Dudjom Rinpoche, a closer look at the shared history between the two is sufficient.

Geopolitically, India has a number of territorial disputes with China. By helping the Dalai Lama, the Indian government proved itself capable of being a thorn in China’s side. The collaboration between New Delhi and the Dalai Lama would deepen. The latter would even authorize the use of Tibet’s secret guerrilla army ─ funded by the CIA ─ in India’s wars against Pakistan.

Dudjom Rinpoche wasn’t alone in his opposition to the Dalai Lama’s imposition of absolute power. In a bid to unify all Tibetans in exile, the Dalai Lama, through his brother Gyalo Thondup, sponsored the formation of the United Party in 1964.

Although some of the United Party’s programs that promoted understanding and cultural unity found support among the Tibetans, it was when they tried to push for religious unity that many objected. There were at least 13 settlements within the Tibetan Diaspora that stood in the way, known as the Thirteen Group.

The Thirteen Group included the leaders of the Nyingma and Kagyu schools. More damaging for the Dalai Lama was that the groups secured the support of the 16th Karmapa, who agreed to be their spiritual leader.

Other lamas, including the famous Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, also joined the opposition. They also elected a layman, Gungthang Tsultrim, who acted as their political leader in their fight against the United Party’s bid for religious uniformity.

Unable to persuade them to conform, the CTA, then known as the Tibetan Government-in-Exile, decided to once again enlist the help of the Indian authorities. Bringing pressure to bear, New Delhi ordered relocation for 24 prominent members of the opposition. Two of those ordered to move challenged the orders in the Indian High Court and won.

Embittered by their legal defeat, Dharamsala decided to orchestrate the assassination of the political leader of the Thirteen Group, Gungthang Tsultrim, who was shot from close range on March 13, 1977. The assassin, by the name of Amdo Rekhang Tenzin, admitted to being paid 300,000 rupees by the Tibetan Government-in-Exile to commit the act.

H.H. the 16th Karmapa Rangjung Rigpe Dorje and H.H. the 14th Dalai Lama

By siding with the opposition groups, the 16th Karmapa Rangjung Rigpe Dorje was marked as an enemy by the Dalai Lama. When he died in 1981, a search for his reincarnated successor began. Two candidates emerged and the Dalai Lama exacted his revenge on the Karma Kagyus by supporting Ogyen Trinley Dorje instead of Trinley Thaye Dorje, the candidate backed by the enemy of Tibetan independence, the Chinese government in Beijing.

The role of the Dalai Lama in the selection of the 17th Karmapa was nothing short of extraordinary. As a lama of the Gelugpa school, he had no religious authority to confirm the reincarnation of a Kagyu lama, much less the Karmapa himself. What motivated him to do so remains shrouded in mystery but it was, all the same, an act of betrayal.

The secret history of the Dalai Lama is slowly emerging into light. It has remained secret because most people do not associate such acts of deceit and violence with the self-proclaimed “simple monk” that the mainstream media presents him to be. This history portrays Tenzin Gyatso as the politician who uses his monk’s robes as a façade. It is time we brought down that façade.

John N.

Disclaimer: This article was submitted by a third party author and does not necessarily reflect the official opinion of DorjeShugden.com. We accept submissions from the public, please send in your articles to ds@dorjeshugden.com.

Governor Chris Christie of New Jersey. We call upon him respectully, and the leaders of other nations where Dorje Shugden practitioners may be found, to speak up against the defamatory statements being made by the Central Tibetan Administration

On March 17, 2014 the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA; Tibetan leadership based in Dharamsala) published a resolution on the Dorje Shugden ban (http://tibet.net/dolgyal-shugden/tibetan-parliament-in-exiles-resolution-concerning-dolgyal-17-march-2014/). It, amongst other things, labelled Dorje Shugden practitioners as “criminals in history”. Such a blanket statement is problematic when compared against the socio-economic and geopolitical demographic of 4 million Dorje Shugden practitioners who come from all over the world.

The resolution does not make any distinction between Tibetan and non-Tibetan practitioners of Dorje Shugden. It would therefore appear that the CTA have knowingly labelled citizens of other nations as “criminals”, when their only ‘crime’ is the fact they have their own religious beliefs and respectfully refuse to adhere to the Dalai Lama’s edicts. The CTA has overstepped the boundaries and are perhaps a bit arrogant for labelling citizens of other countries “criminals” for practicing Shugden.

Nothing that Dorje Shugden practitioners have done all over the world is against the laws of their land. Their protests have been permitted by the police and no violence has been directed at supporters of the ban.

Whatever the CTA has done however, up until now with regards to the Dorje Shugden ban has been illegal and undemocratic. Withholding medical treatment on the basis of a person’s faith is unethical, inhumane and not to mention illegal. Encouraging children to bully young Dorje Shugden practitioners is unethical. Lying about the state of our lamas in the way Penpa Tsering has done is defamatory.

We at DorjeShugden.com therefore support Diane Cadman’s call to Governor Chris Christie to protest against this defamatory statement against American citizens. We also call upon the federal governments of free nations to observe the statements by the CTA. We also request that the governments of other nations follow suit – wherever Dorje Shugden practitioners reside (for example the United Kingdom and Switzerland), we request these governments to protest against this statement by the CTA. Such a statement is an affront to the sovereignty of these nations who are duty-bound to protect their citizens against smear campaigns waged by foreign administrations.

Click to enlarge the image. To sign the petition, please click here: http://www.askthem.io/nj/questions/5468f6ea9d29c91cbd00000b?share=false

Gov. Christie should demand that the CTA desist, with immediate effect, all of their vague, fear-mongering language which makes false claims regarding the motivation of Dorje Shugden practitioners. For example, the CTA has yet to prove that Dorje Shugden practitioners have received any kind of ‘monetary gain’ as a result of protesting against the ban on Dorje Shugden. Yet in this resolution, they state clearly that Dorje Shugden practitioners protest because they receive “monetary and material incentives” from the Chinese government.

Furthermore, the Tibetan government has never explained with any real logic what “grave harm” has been caused to the faith of Tibet. Whose faith are they referring to, and how can the Tibetan leadership expect anyone to retain faith in their administration after more than 50 years of false promises and hopes for independence? The so-called loss of the Tibetan nation has nothing to do with religion, gods, God or deities. It has everything to do with the selfish mismanagement of the Tibetan Government that handled China wrongly in the 1950s resulting in them ‘losing’ their country. No one is to blame for the ‘loss’ of their country except their own government. That leads us to logically conclude that in the last 55 years, the CTA has failed miserably in acquiring Tibet ‘back’ or even nearing the goals of autonomy. Tibet is part of China and whose doing is this? Of course the CTA who signed their nation away.

The resolution in fact also contradicts many of the CTA’s recent statements against Dorje Shugden practitioners. On such glaring contradiction relates to the first two clauses of the resolution which recognises previous discussions on Dorje Shugden, as well as previous actions taken against Shugden practitioners:

(1) Reaffirms to carefully follow up the series of resolutions unanimously passed by the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile on this issue in 1996, 1997 and 2008.

(2) Recognises and resolves to collectively disseminate to all people the actual issue as per the resolution/section (B) of article 5 passed during the Conference of the Heads, Abbots, Lamas/Trulkus and Representatives of the four schools of Tibetan Buddhism and Bon religion in 2009. It states: “Worshipping the worldly gods, particularly spirits for protection, contravenes the principle of following the three refuge in Buddhism. The conference unequivocally proclaims that any individuals or organisation propitiating Dolgyal, would not be affiliated to any Tibetan religious school.”

The CTA has recently taken to insisting that no ban has ever been enshrined in their halls of legislation. However this resolution recognises that on at least three separate occasions, effort has been taken to guard against the supposed danger arising from the worship of Dorje Shugden. As the CTA themselves note, the CTA took proactive steps “to lead the ignorant to righteous path” when it “unanimously passed resolutions on 6 June 1996, 17 September 1997 and 15 March 2008.” Despite this resolution clearly stating that Dorje Shugden practitioners are not welcomed, the CTA’s spokespeople seem quite happy to tell the world’s media that there is no such thing as ban on Dorje Shugden practice. Why pass resolutions when there is no ban? Of course there has been a ban and, at times, violent segregation.

Thus it seems that whilst the CTA is very adept at passing grandiose resolutions, their command of the English language is selective at best, and their logic quite lacking. This lack of logic is most apparent when, in this resolution, the CTA says this issue has nothing to do with religious freedom. In fact, this issue has everything to do with religious freedom. When a government passes four resolutions, each one reaffirming actions taken against a certain religious belief, practice or faith, THAT makes the issue about religious freedom.

It has been 55 years since the diaspora of the Tibetan peoples all over the world. Since that time, many have become citizens of various nations around the world. Tibetans can be found in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Taiwan, Switzerland, France, Canada and of course India and Nepal. This resolution however, ignores the fact that Dorje Shugden practitioners may not necessarily come under the jurisdiction of the Tibetan leadership and overrides the sovereign rights of these governments. To add, many practitioners of Shugden are not even Tibetan. So stop calling people who practice Dorje Shugden as criminals.

We thank Ms. Diane Cadman for bringing attention to this issue and call upon the governments of these various nations, wherever Dorje Shugden practitioners may reside, to exert due influence on the Tibetan administration for the defamatory statements that have been brought against their citizens.

To sign the petition, please click here: http://www.askthem.io/nj/questions/5468f6ea9d29c91cbd00000b?share=false

Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile’s Resolution Concerning Dolgyal – 17 March 2014

Click to enlarge the image.