Biography: The 4th Tagphu Pemavajra Jampel Tenpai Ngodrub
It would not be far-fetched to say that most influential Gelug lamas of today would consider H.H. Kyabje Pabongka Rinpoche as their direct teacher, or as their lineage teacher through his heart son H.H. Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche. However, in present times, few are aware of Pabongka Rinpoche’s teacher, His Holiness the 4th Tagphu Pemavajra Jampel Tenpai Ngodrub, who played a pivotal role in transmitting many significant teachings to Pabongka Rinpoche as well as Trijang Rinpoche, culminating in the preservation of those invaluable teachings to the present day.
The 20th Gaden Tripa Chodrak Zangpo
A highly accomplished mahasiddha whose great attainments were well-known and acknowledged by innumerable Lamas during his time, Tagphu Pemavajra hailed from an illustrious line of Tagphu incarnations which included amongst them the 20th Gaden Tripa Chodrak Zangpo. The Tagphu incarnations are also commonly known as the Garwang incarnations. This name was first adopted by Tagphu Losang Chokyi Wangchuk, who was also known by the name Tagphu Garwang Chokyi Wangchuk. Tagphu Pemavajra also made references to himself as the 4th Gargyi Wangchuk, shortened to Garwang, in his own writings.
Whilst information about the Tagphu line are scarce, what is clear and undisputed is that the Tagphu incarnations were yogis famous for their visions of the Buddha deities and their ability to astral travel to various pure lands to receive teachings directly from the Buddhas. To illustrate, the title of Gargyi Wangchuk as originally used by Tagphu Losang Chokyi Wangchuk is believed to have come about on account of his mystical visions and astral travels.
Losang Chokyi Wangchuk is credited with founding the Cittamani Tara cycle of teachings, which to this day is a very widespread practice within the Gelug tradition. This unique lineage of Tara’s practice that belongs to the Highest Yoga Tantra class (also known as Maha Annuttara Yoga Tantra) is based on his pure visions of the Goddess Tara from whom he received the initiation as well as the commentary. This is clearly recorded in the text named ‘Thirteen Pure Visions of Tagphu‘, which also contains Tagphu Losang Chokyi Wangchuk’s visions, sadhanas and writings on the Five-deity Amitayus, Hayagriva, Chenrezig Gyalwa Gyatso and so forth.
Another Tagphu incarnation who had pure visions of Tara and received direct teachings from her was Tagphu Lobsang Tenpai Gyaltsen. It is said that he painted an image of Tara and henceforth, was never without a vision of her. He was not only able to perceive her golden face but was also able to receive advice, teachings and complete oral instructions and transmissions.
Tagphu Pemavajra Jampel Tenpai Ngodrub is generally regarded to be the 4th Tagphu incarnation, despite some discrepancies and differing opinions on the actual number of Tagphu incarnations. Such scarcity of information is likely due to their focus and tendency to opt for meditation in isolated places and spiritual realms, away from the demands and dictates of civilisation. Nonetheless, out of great compassion, whatever teachings that these incarnations received as well as realised were transmitted to appropriate lineage holders in order to ensure the spread and perpetuation of those teachings for the benefit of all sentient beings.
The 4th Tagphu Pemavajra Jampel Tenpai Ngodrub
Born in 1876 in Naksho (Kham, Tibet), Tagphu Pemavajra started his monastic studies at Drepung Loseling Monastery in Lhasa when he was 12 years old. After six years of studying Pramana, Madhyamaka, Prajnaparamita, Vinaya and Abhidharma, he completed his studies and returned home to Naksho in 1894.
At the age of 30, Tagphu Pemavajra returned to the Lhasa region. It is said that he returned with the intention of meeting with Pabongka Rinpoche, upon receiving a secret prophecy from Tara, his yidam. It is also said that Tagphu Pemavajra and Pabongka Rinpoche had a strong karmic connection developed over many lifetimes. In fact, Pabongka Rinpoche is viewed by many as a later incarnation of Changkya Rolpai Dorje, who was the student of an earlier Tagphu incarnation, Tagphu Lobsang Tenpai Gyeltsen. Thus, it is not surprising that upon Tagphu Pemavajra and Pabongka Rinpoche meeting in Lhasa, they immediately became acquainted and Tagphu Pemavajra spent much of his time at a hermitage called Chuzang Ritro, located above Sera Monastery, teaching and transmitting many vital practices and lineages to Pabongka Rinpoche.
H.H. Kyabje Pabongka Rinpoche
One such teaching was Lojong or mind training, where Tagphu Pemavajra gave Pabongka Rinpoche a detailed commentary on the Four Combined Annotations on the Lam Rim Chenmo, a two-volume version of the Lam Rim Chenmo that encompasses the Lam Rim Chenmo of Lama Tsongkhapa and also annotations to the Lam Rim Chenmo by Baso Chokyi Gyaltsen, Jamyang Zhepa, Ngawang Rabten and Rinchen Dondrup.
Tagphu Pemavajra also gave Pabongka Rinpoche an experiential explanation of the Easy Path Lamrim and practical instructions on the Swift Path Lamrim. Thus, it would be safe to attribute Pabongka Rinpoche’s strong grounding in Lamrim and Lojong in part to Tagphu Pemavajra, alongside teachings on The Blissful Path Lamrim composed by the 4th Panchen Lama that Pabongka Rinpoche received from his root Guru, Dagpo Lama Lobsang Jampel Lhundrub Gyatso. These various Lamrim teachings made it possible for Pabongka Rinpoche to deliver his famous 24-day Lamrim discourse at Chuzang Ritro in 1921, which was subsequently documented by Trijang Rinpoche to become ‘Liberation in the Palm of Your Hand‘, one of the leading Lamrim texts today.
Other teachings received from Tagphu Pemavajra which were widely diffused by Pabongka Rinpoche include Completion Stage teachings such as those of Guhyasamaja and the Six Yogas of Naropa, the initiations and instructions of Cittamani Tara, the Glorious Grant of Immortality long-life initiation, Gaden Nyengyu teachings such as Guru Puja (Lama Chopa), the compilation of a new initiation manual for the Thirteen Pure Visions of Tagphu, Four Empowerments for Chakrasamvara’s Body Mandala in the tradition of Ghantapa on the basis of Changkya Ngawang Lobsang’s syllabus, meditation on accomplishing the combination of peace and wrath on the basis of Chuzang Lama Je Yeshe Gyatso’s writings, explanations on Yongzin Yeshe Gyaltsen’s Essence of Nectar Mind Training, explanations on the meditation and recitation of Samayavajra, and a profound explanation on the Guru Yoga of Gaden Lhagyama.
Interestingly, the dynamics of the teacher-disciple relationship between Tagphu Pemavajra and Pabongka Rinpoche were very unique and akin to the meeting of two enlightened minds. It was common for this teacher and student to reverse their roles, as seen when Tagphu Pemavajra in turn received teachings such as the Completion Stage practices of Heruka Chakrasamvara and the Rinjung Gyatsa initiations from Pabongka Rinpoche.
Another of Tagphu Pemavajra’s remarkable deeds which continues to influence the Gelug lineage significantly relates to his role in ensuring the authenticity of instructions on the practice of Dorje Shugden and his Five Families. In fact, the life entrustment initiation (sogtae), which is an important aspect of the Dorje Shugden practice could have been lost but for the efforts of Tagphu Pemavajra and Pabongka Rinpoche.
The 4th Tagphu Pemavajra (top) and Pabongka Rinpoche (bottom) as depicted in the Dorje Shugden lineage tree
Sogtae is not something unique only to the practice of Dorje Shugden but is present in many other Dharma Protector practices, such as Setrap and Nechung. In essence, sogtae is the promissory rite where the Lama seals the spiritual bond between the initiate and the Dharma Protector. In the case of a Dorje Shugden sogtae, both the Protector and the initiate pledge loyalty wherein the initiate swears to take Dorje Shugden as his Dharma Protector until he achieves Bodhicitta and in turn, the Protector is sworn to protect the initiate until the achievement of Bodhicitta. This is premised upon the understanding that with the realisation of Bodhicitta, the initiate no longer needs a Protector’s assistance and becomes a ‘Protector’ for others instead.
According to traditional records, an older Dorje Shugden life entrustment text had been composed by Rinchen Wangyal (1741-1812) of Sera Monastery but was believed to be lost during the time of Pabongka Rinpoche. Out of great compassion, Dorje Shugden via an oracle requested Pabongka Rinpoche to compose another text to replace it. Pabongka Rinpoche then wrote the “seed text” accordingly but felt it was inadequate. Thus, he sought the assistance of Tagphu Pemavajra, whose abilities to astral travel were renowned.
At the request of Pabongka Rinpoche, Tagphu Pemavajra entered deep meditation and astral-travelled to Tushita Pure Land where Lama Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug tradition, resides. There, he received the complete instructions on the practice of Dorje Shugden and his Five Families, including the life entrustment initiation, directly from Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen, one of Lama Tsongkhapa’s main disciples and also one of the previous lives of Dorje Shugden.
An excerpt from ‘The Dorje Shugden’s Dharma History: White Diamond’ by His Eminence Kyabje Dagom Rinpoche, which details how Tagphu Pemavajra astral-travelled to Tushita Heaven to receive the complete instructions of Dorje Shugden’s practice
Upon his return from Tushita Pure Land, Tagphu Pemavajra painstakingly documented the instructions and subsequently passed on the practices to Pabongka Rinpoche. As such, the Dorje Shugden line of lineage lamas originates from Lama Tsongkhapa to Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen followed by Tagphu Pemavajra, and then to Pabongka Rinpoche, Trijang Rinpoche and so forth. Pabongka Rinpoche also composed his famous fulfilment ritual (kangso) entitled ‘Melodious Drum Victorious in All Directions’ based on the transmissions from Tagphu Pemavajra, and this text continues to be frequently used by practitioners all over the world to this day.
Astral travelling to Tushita Pure Land is but one of the mystical deeds of Tagphu Pemavajra. To name but a few others, when Tagphu Pemavajra did a retreat at Guru Rinpoche’s meditation cave Myang-phug, the dakini sign language was revealed to him three times, and he had a vision of Guru Yab Yum, Trisong Detsen and the 25 disciples. Another time, while giving an initiation of Five Deity Heruka, the Mahasiddha Ghantapa Yab Yum actually came and spoke to Tagphu Pemavajra based on his inquiries.
On another occassion, Tagphu Pemavajra had a clear vision of Heruka Yab Yum surrounded by the pandits, yogis and yoginis of India and Tibet. He received the four initiations directly from Heruka Yab Yum, all the while seeing clearly the deities of the body mandala of Heruka, and was also able to seek advice directly from Heruka in the form of a monk.
Tagphu Pemavajra was also able to reveal the location of Heruka’s sacred cave called Takden near Chuzang. According to traditional sources, the cave was found following the appearance of a shiny crow, who was in actuality Heruka’s sworn Protector. The crow appeared to Tagphu Pemavajra and entourage, which included Pabongka Rinpoche, after they made offerings of incense and prayer flags to the Lamas, Yidams, Protectors and local deities at Umbrella Mountain. It sang various melodies in a powerful voice before flying to a cave in the neighbouring mountain. The crow repeated its actions several times, clearly showing the location of Heruka’s cave. In this sacred abode of Heruka, Tagphu Pemavajra is said to have experienced many extraordinary visions.
The mountain ridge where Heruka’s holy cave Takden is said to be located
On another occasion at Takden Cave, Tagphu Pemavajra and Pabongka Rinpoche were welcomed by countless dakinis and both saw the actual Wisdom Body of Heruka from the top of the cave. And when Pabongka Rinpoche performed a tenshug for the long life of Tagphu Pemavajra, the cave turned into an immeasurable mandala complete in all of its characteristics and activities with the tsog offering merit field comprised of actual wisdom beings. From this assembly came Dromtonpa, who explained that the extraordinary phenomenon was due to Tagphu Pemavajra’s proper reliance and belief in his spiritual guide. Dromtonpa also gave a series of specific and general prophecies which were recorded by Tagphu Pemavajra.
Tagphu Pemavajra had many other illustrious students including Demo Rinpoche, Ula Tulku, Sang Yum Rinpoche and especially Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche, to whom he transmitted the secret jenang of Cittamani Tara (the final empowerment out of a series of three empowerments related to the great Tara) and the Glorious Grant of Immortality long-life initiation, which Tagphu Pemavajra had also bestowed on Pabongka Rinpoche previously. Tagphu Pemavajra also answered Trijang Rinpoche’s request for divination on which deity he should take as his main practice and what would happen to him at the end of his life with eight lines of text, which he received from Tara herself.
He was also highly revered by the public at the time, and had a number of disciples and patrons from the upper echelons of Tibetan society, such as the then Prime Minister Lochen Shatra Peljor Dorje. Although a hermit at heart, Tagphu Pemavajra eventually set up his own monastery in Naksho called Driru Drubde Monastery, also known as Geden Lukzang Kunphel Ling.
The timing and circumstances of Tagphu Pemavajra’s passing are unclear but there is a recorded estimation that he entered clear light in 1922. However, several biographies of Tagphu Pemavajra’s students appear to contradict this and reflect that they received teachings from him up until the mid-1930s.
The life and deeds of this mahasiddha-yogi have heavily influenced Tibetan Buddhism today, but the most impactful is undoubtedly his vision and transmission of the Dorje Shugden cycle of teachings. Just like his predecessor Tagphu Garwang Losang Chokyi Wangchuk, who established the incredibly beneficial Cittamani Tara Tantras after receiving them directly from Arya Tara in Potala Pure Land, Tagphu Pemavajra’s legacy of the Dorje Shugden lineage has impacted the lives of millions and ensured that this highly effective practice remains alive in our degenerate era.
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The 4th Tagpu Pemavajra Jampel Tenpai Ngodrub, most commonly known as Tagpu Dorje Chang, was a highly accomplished yogi Highly attained lama who had many authentic visions of the Buddhas and even travel astrally to receive direct teachings from them. His recognised line of incarnations stem all the way back to the 14th Century. He is generally regarded as such amongst Gelug lineage holders. He spent most of his time in a hermitage located above Sera Monastery, gave teachings and transmitted many vital practices and lineages to his foremost student Kyabje Pabongka Rinpoche. Besides receiving the complete instructions of Dorje Shugden’s practice, Tagpu Dorje Chang had many other mystical experiences throughout his lifetime. Interesting read biography of a highly accomplished mahasiddha lama.
Thank you Rinpoche for this great sharing.
Tagphu Pemavajra, brought many practice lineages from purelands and such. During that time, everyone recognized his deep spiritual powers and praised Tagphu Pemavajra’s prowess and ability to get teachings directly from the enlightened beings.
Yet today, the some pf the practices like Cittamani Tara still is being practiced, yet the Dorje Shugden practice is being demonized as a political tool. He cannot be on one hand enlightened, and on the other hand not enlightened this makes no sense whatsoever.
Mantras are sacred verbalized words that invoke the protection and blessings of the deity to whom the mantra is ascribed. Mantras are also the manifestations of Buddhas in the form of ‘sounds’, hence the various mantras of Dorje Shugden contain the essence of the Protector.
Dorje Shugden’s main mantra 多杰雄登主要咒语
OM BENZA WIKI BITANA SOHA
Dorje Shugden’s mantra for peace 平和咒语
For gaining attainments through the energy of Peaceful Shugden, peace of environment and mind, harmony in one’s abode and dwelling area, and calming of disasters
OM BENZA WIKI BITANA SHANTI SIDDHI HUNG
Dorje Shugden’s mantra for health 福寿安康咒语
For long life, increasing life, healing of disease and protection from diseases
OM BENZA WIKI BITANA AYU SIDDHI HUNG
Dorje Shugden’s mantra for increase 增长咒语
For gaining great merits and increase of all necessary needs, both material and spiritual
OM BENZA WIKI BITANA PUNYE SIDDHI HUNG
Dorje Shugden’s mantra for control 控制咒语
Of worldly deities, negative people and nagas and for influencing friends towards the positive
OM BENZA WIKI BITANA WASHAM KURU HO
Dorje Shugden’s mantra to grant protection 庇护咒语
Visualize that you are in the Protector’s mandala, fully protected from outside interferences. Recite when in danger or for dangerous situations, for protection while travelling or when residing in dangerous/hostile places
OM BENZA WIKI BITANA RAKYA RAKYA HUNG
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videouploads/comment-1544345059.mp4
Dear friends,
Tibet has produced many powerful meditations, rituals and guidelines to help us gain spiritual protection, gain wisdom and higher states of consciousness. In general Tibet has produced many powerful methods for the growth of our spiritual evolution. Dorje Shugden is an angel, a saint, a powerful spiritual protector-warrior who originated 350 years ago when a highly awakened Tibetan Lama fulfilled his vows to become a special being to grant protection, wisdom, material needs, safety when travelling (normal and astral travel) and spiritual awakening. Both the Great 5th Dalai Lama and the current His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama composed short yet effective prayers to invoke upon the power and blessings of this special saint and protector. One can recite either one of the prayers that you feel suits you, anytime or even daily. When you feel a special need for help, you can recite either prayer anytime. When you are feeling down, afraid or just need a blessing, you can recite them. After reciting either invocation, it is good to chant the mantra of Dorje Shugden: Om Benza Wiki Bitana Soha.
You do not have to be a Buddhist or practitioner of any religion to invoke upon the blessings and protection of this special enlightened and awakened angel Dorje Shugden. He helps all without discrimination or bias as he is filled with compassion and love. Divinity has no boundaries, they help all who call upon them.
Enclosed are the prayers in English, Chinese and Tibetan.
May you be safe, protected and blessed.
Tsem Rinpoche
More on the Great 5th Dalai Lama and Dorje Shugden – https://bit.ly/2w7KHv6
More on H.H. the 14th Dalai Lama and Dorje Shugden – https://bit.ly/2QdaL4n
Chapel (Trode Khangsar) built by the Great 5th Dalai Lama dedicated to Dorje Shugden in Lhasa – https://bit.ly/2zBTd8M
—
亲爱的朋友们，
西藏产生了许多有助于我们得到精神庇佑、取得智慧和更高层次之觉悟的强大禅修法、仪式和教诲。总括来说，西藏产生了许多有助于我们在修行上取得提升的强有力方法。多杰雄登是一个天使，一位圣人和一名护法战士。他的崛起始于350年前，当一位高度觉悟的西藏高僧履行本身的承诺，化身为特别的护法，赐予我们守护、智慧、物质需要、出入平安（平日外游和神游时）和灵修上的觉醒。任何人都可以随时随地在任何时候念诵适合自己的祈愿文。当你需要特别的帮助时，你可以随时念诵任何一篇祈愿文。当你感到沮丧、恐惧或仅是需要加持时，你也可以持诵这些祈愿文。在念诵任何祈请文后，你应该接着念诵多杰雄登的心咒：嗡 班杂 维格 毗札那 娑哈 Om Benza Wiki Bitana Soha。
要祈请多杰雄登这位特殊、觉悟和觉醒的天使赐予加持和庇佑，你无需是佛教徒或任何宗教的修行者。他总是没有分别或偏见，充满慈悲和慈爱地帮助一切众生。神圣是没有界限的，圣者会帮助有求于他的任何人。
以下附上英文、中文和藏文的祈愿文。
愿你平安，常受庇护和加持。
尊贵的詹杜固仁波切
更多关于第五世达赖尊者和多杰雄登护法的内容 — https://bit.ly/2zsC3tG
更多关于第十四世达赖尊者和多杰雄登护法的内容 — https://bit.ly/2r4aaDN
第五世达赖尊者为多杰雄登护法在拉萨建造的护法殿（布旦康萨）— https://bit.ly/2zBTd8M
Divination (‘mo’) Text by Dorje Shugden
This is an important divination (‘mo’) text composed by Dorje Shugden himself. Dorje Shugden took trance of the Choyang Dulzin oracle lama, the senior oracle of Gaden Shartse Monastery, and instantly on the spot composed this text within two hours.
The divination text contains information on how to use dice to do divination for the future and is known to be highly accurate. When practitioners use this text, they will be in direct contact with Dorje Shugden to get answers to questions about the future. It is for those who have good samaya with Dorje Shugden and are free of the eight worldly dharmas to be of benefit to others in divining the future.
Tsem Rinpoche
DS-MO-choyang.pdf
Be blessed with these rare videos featuring explanation and advice about Dorje Shugden practice by His Holiness Kyabje Zong Rinpoche in his own voice. The teaching was requested by Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen, one of the earliest masters who taught Tibetan Buddhism in the West.
Video 1: H.H. Kyabje Zong Rinpoche Explains Dorje Shugden Initiation and Benefits (With English Subtitles)
Kyabje Zong Rinpoche was an erudite scholar, ritual master and practitioner of the highest degree from Tibet. At the request of Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen, one of the pioneers who taught Tibetan Buddhism in America, Kyabje Zong Rinpoche gives clear explanation and advice about the life-entrustment initiation of Dorje Shugden and how to go about the practice and get the maximum benefits in this video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzFMvlxAqtc&feature=youtu.be
Video 2: H.H. Kyabje Zong Rinpoche speaks on the History and Lineage of Dorje Shugden (With English Subtitles)
In this video, an erudite scholar, ritual master and practitioner of the highest degree from Tibet, Kyabje Zong Rinpoche talks about the incarnation lineage of Dorje Shugden and how the practice arose, with examples of Dorje Shugden’s previous lives that reveal his powerful spiritual attainments and contributions. This very rare teaching was given at the request of Kyabje Zong Rinpoche’s student, Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen, one of the pioneers who taught Buddhism in the West to many disciples since the 1970s.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sIzKSJgK618&feature=youtu.be
For more information: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/kyabje-zong-rinpoches-advice-on-dorje-shugdens-practice.html
His Holiness the 10th Panchen Lama
Tibetans commonly refer to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and His Holiness 10th Panchen Lama as the “sun and moon” of Tibetan Buddhism. They are the center of Tibetan Buddhist civilization, which draws to its sphere of influence millions of non-Tibetan practitioners. The Panchen Lama’s incarnation line began with the 16th abbot of Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen (1570 – 1662). He was bestowed the title of Panchen Lama by His Holiness the 5th Dalai Lama after being declared as an emanation of Amitabha.
After being given the title, his three previous incarnations were posthumously also bestowed the title, making Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen the 4th Panchen Lama. He became a teacher to many Tibetans, Bhutanese and Mongolian religious figures, including His Holiness the 4th and 5th Dalai Lamas, and the 1st Jetsun Dampa of Mongolia. A prolific author, Chokyi Gyeltsen is credited with over a hundred compositions, including a number of commentaries and ritual texts that remain central in the Gelukpa tradition today. Along with his role as a teacher of the Dharma, the Panchen Lamas are usually responsible for the recognition of the rebirths of the Dalai Lamas, and vice versa.
The 10th Panchen Lama, Lobsang Trinley Lhundrub Chokyi Gyeltsen (19 February 1938 – 28 January 1989) continued both the spiritual and political roles of his predecessors. His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, his contemporary, was even heard to say and echo the Panchen Lama’s own words that the Dalai Lama would safeguard Tibet from the outside while the Panchen Lama would safeguard Tibet from the inside, as he never left Tibet after the political troubles of 1959. He was truly loved by the Tibetans, all the way until his passing. When he taught, thousands of people would attend, not only from his own Gelug lineage, but masters and practitioners from all traditions of Tibetan Buddhism.
At his sprawling monastery of Tashi Lhunpo, he has a special chapel specifically dedicated to Dorje Shugden, where prayers and rituals are performed on a daily basis. In his great omniscience the Panchen Lama held Dorje Shugden as the principal Dharma protector of the monastery. He also personally propitiated Dorje Shugden among other Dharma protectors, and even wrote extensive prayers and rituals to Dorje Shugden. These rituals and prayers are contained within his ‘sung bum’ or collected works, which are provided here. As such a great lama, with an erudite and clear understanding of the Buddhist scriptures, a teacher to millions in both Tibet and China, from an established incarnation line and an emanation of the Buddha Amitabha, he could not be mistaken about his practice of Dorje Shugden.
His Holiness 10th Panchen Lama is known for his composition of commentaries and practice texts that are still in use by contemporary Buddhist practitioners both in Tibet and across the world. One of these is a powerful ritual composition propitiating the compassionate Dorje Shugden.
Upon the request by Acharya Lobsang Jangchub to compose a shorter version of the prayer (sadhana) for the exhortation of activities of Dorje Shugden, Panchen Lama immediately composed an abbreviate form of Dorje Shugden’s Kangsol. This text is entitled “Manjunatha’s (Tsongkapa) Lineage protector Dorje Shugden and five forms wrathful propitiations and confessional prayers and fulfilment of activities rites” or “Melodious sound of Accomplishment of the Four Activities” for short. Once the prayers were completed, he had signs and strong feelings that Dorje Shugden has been working hard to protect the Buddhadharma in general and the lineage of Lama Tsongkhapa specifically.
Mirroring the abilities of one of his earlier incarnations, Khedrub Je, a disciple of Lama Tsongkhapa and master of both sutra and tantra, the Panchen Lama used his compositional skill and poetic prowess to create a masterful sadhana. Worthy of note is a praise in which the first letter of each verse is a Tibetan vowel. Such compositions are rarely seen, and have historically only been used when propitiating senior Dharma protectors such as Palden Lhamo and Kalarupa.
The Panchen Lama also stated that while composing the Dorje Shugden sadhana (prayers) he was filled with a sense of happiness and bliss. He ends the composition with not only his official title but his ordination name, Tenzin Trinley Jigme Choje Wangchuk, endorsing the validity of his work. He composed the sadhana in his own Tashi Lhunpo monastery while in the Hall of Clear Light and Bliss.
See the Panchen Lama’s writings and download: https://bit.ly/2KIfeXb
For the first time available, Dorje Shugden and his entourage of 32 assistants of his mandala.
Dorje Shugden is a powerful protector deity who is also an emanation of Manjushri, a wisdom bestowing Buddha. Therefore, he has great ability to help us to progress further on the spiritual path. He does this by helping us to overcome obstacles and problems for the modern individual.
Due to his enlightened nature, Dorje Shugden is able to manifest 32 deities and within the same abode resides Setrap and Kache Marpo:-
1. 5 Dorje Shugden families or emanations. They consists of the following:-
– Dulzin Dorje Shugden, which performs activities to eliminate inner and outer obstacles.
– Shize, which performs activities to pacify all illnesses and disease.
– Gyenze, which performs activities to increase all desirable material and spiritual wealth.
– Wangze, which performs activities to control difficult people and circumstances.
– Trakze, which performs activities to wrathfully eliminate all insurmountable obstacles and life-threatening situations.
2. 9 Mothers. They represent protection of the five senses and developing control of the four elements. These are all attributes that signify their ability to assist tantric practitioners with their higher meditations.
3. 8 Guiding Monks. They represent the Eight Great Bodhisattvas (Avalokitesvara, Manjushri, Vajrapani, Samantabhadra, Maitreya, Kshitigarbha, Akashagarbha, Sarva-nivarana-viskambini) and they bring about the growth of the Dharma, through the Sangha, Dharma practitioners and Dharma establishments.
4. 10 Youthful & Wrathful Attendants. They represent the ten wrathful attendants to avert inner and outer obstacles. They are beings who are from Mongolia, China, Kashmir, India, Bengali, etc.
5. Setrap. He is a senior Dharma Protector from India and an emanation of Amitabha Buddha. He had enthroned Dorje Shugden as an authentic Dharma Protector. Therefore, he also resides within the same mandala of Dorje Shugden.
6. Kache Marpo. He is not an emanation of Dorje Shugden but he is still an enlightened Dharma Protector in his own right. He was originally known as Tsiu Marpo of Samye Monastery. However, he has placed himself under the service of Dorje Shugden as his chief minister, performing many activities in order to protect and benefit practitioners. Therefore, he stands guard at the main entrance of Dorje Shugden’s mandala. He often takes trance of qualified mediums to speak.
7. Namkar Barzin. He is the reincarnation of an old Mongolian monk and when he passed away in Phari area of Tibet, his spirit was placed as a powerful assistant of Dorje Shugden. He guards and protects buildings and great institutions especially those that benefit others. He rides on a mythical Gyaling animal that resembles a goat but with scales.
These sacred images are available on *Vajrasecrets. They are made of high quality alloy and are one of a kind. They are based on the lineage of His Holiness Panchen Rinpoche’s monastery, Tashilhunpo in Shigatse, Tibet. In fact, the iconography of these statues are based on detailed photographs taken by H. E. Tsem Rinpoche during a trip to Tashilhunpo’s protector chapel. These are based exactly as the 10th Panchen Lama’s personal collection.
Dorje Shugden mandala: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=131570
Dorje Shugden’s benefit and practice: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=62422
Dorje Shugden’s origins: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=106424
Dorje Shugden chapel in His Holiness Panchen Rinpoche’s Tashilhunpo Monastery in Tibet: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=68698
*Stand not included
Amazing post!!!!!
Dear friends, For months we have been working on this BEAUTIFUL and meaningful mural in Kathmandu, Nepal. Please click here to enjoy the many stunning pictures of this mural: https://bit.ly/2LgOj8J
Tsem Rinpoche
Sakya tradition’s thangka of Dorje Shugden sitting on a throne within his palace with his four emanations and high Sakya Lamas nearby. Tsem Rinpoche
Antique Pelden Lhamo thangka with sacred Dorje Shugden at the bottom right. Can see Tsongkapa and Guru Rinpoche on the top also. Beautiful and holy.
Interesting write up of our lineage master. The 4th Tagpu Pemavajra Jampel Tenpai Ngodrub, was a highly accomplished yogi also known as Tagpu Dorje Chang. His great achievements and attainments were well-known by many high lamas during his time. It seems that Jampel Tenpai Ngodrub have had numerous mystical experiences in his life time. It was him that brought the Cittamani Tara practices and the Dorje Shugden practices directly . He has a great influence in the Gelug lineage on the practice of Dorje Shugden and his Five Families. He also seem to have vision of Tara and able to receive advice, teachings and so forth.
Thank you Rinpoche and Cindy for this interesting write up.
Great message every Tibetan especially must read!
This comment by Suzy posted on Tsem Rinpoche’s YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vl-4lIwxph4&t=11s) speaks volumes of how the public is beginning to look beyond false rhetoric to see the goodness of this very important deity. Suzy confessed that she tried to avoid recognizing the beauty of the Shugden practice due I guess to old loyalties but the truth cannot be buried forever. Have a read.
This is Dorje Shugden history in the making, as Tagphu Pemavajra travelled to the purelands and gotten the lineage and kangsol of Dorje Shugden from Tushita. Also a significant lama within Pabongka Rinpoche’s life.
Very good write up on this biography of The 4th Tagphu Pemavajra Jampel Tenpai Ngodrub. It’s very straight forward and clear cut. Keep up with your great work ,Cindy! Thank you.
Here are some parts of the biography that sparked my interest and knowledge which was also mentioned in the video by Martin Chow.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ys3XYO93IyU
“Another Tagphu incarnation who had pure visions of Tara and received direct teachings from her was Tagphu Lobsang Tenpai Gyaltsen. It is said that he painted an image of Tara and henceforth, was never without a vision of her. He was not only able to perceive her golden face but was also able to receive advice, teachings and complete oral instructions and transmissions.”
“At the request of Pabongka Rinpoche, Tagphu Pemavajra entered deep meditation and astral-travelled to Tushita Pure Land where Lama Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug tradition, resides. There, he received the complete instructions on the practice of Dorje Shugden and his Five Families, including the life entrustment initiation, directly from Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen, one of Lama Tsongkhapa’s main disciples and also one of the previous lives of Dorje Shugden.”
“Just like his predecessor Tagphu Garwang Losang Chokyi Wangchuk, who established the incredibly beneficial Cittamani Tara Tantras after receiving them directly from Arya Tara in Potala Pure Land, Tagphu Pemavajra’s legacy of the Dorje Shugden lineage has impacted the lives of millions and ensured that this highly effective practice remains alive in our degenerate era.”
Trode Khangsar Chapel in Lhasa, TibetOver 400 years ago a great and learned lama Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen was famed in Mongolia, Tibet, Nepal and China for being very saintly and compassionate. He resided in his residence (Zimkhang Gongma Ladrang) in Drepung Monastery. His root guru was H.H. the Omniscient 4th Panchen Lama and his close dharma brother was the 5th Dalai Lama.
The 5th Dalai Lama and Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen had a very close and dharmic relationship and often went to receive teachings together from the 4th Panchen Lama. They were close in age. They both became very learned and well known. During this time, the Dalai Lama was enthroned as a Dharma King of Tibet. But more people went to see Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen for teachings, initiations and divinations. This made the attendants of the 5th Dalai Lama feel threatened that Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen’s fame might usurp the power of the 5th Dalai Lama. So they had a khata forced down his throat. At that moment, Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen dissolved his psychic winds and generated the wish to be a great guardian of Buddha and Tsongkapa’s teachings. As his consciousness dissolved, he entered ‘bardo’ as a dharma protector of the highest order (jikten depey sungma). Many signs were seen throughout Lhasa at this time and the earth was said to have shaken in Lhasa. This event was already predicted to Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen’s previous incarnation when he was one of the 8 main disciples of Lord Tsongkapa the Supreme Master and he served Tsongkapa directly by building Gaden Monastery.
When the 5th Dalai Lama heard what his scheming and power-hungry attendants had done, he was very distressed. He was very sorry Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen was murdered and dishonored as he was a great dharma master. The 5th Dalai Lama composed an apology to Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen. In Lhasa, tens of thousands gathered for the cremation of Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen’s holy body. During the cremation, the 5th Dalai Lama’s apology was read out at which flames spontaneously arose from the body of Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen commencing the cremation. From the body, during cremation, a powerful whirlwind of smoke tunneled into the sky for all to see as this was an indication Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen’s consciousness has arisen as the Dharma Protector Dorje Shugden. The Dharma Protector Setrap immediately recognized this new protector Dorje Shugden and ‘enthroned’ him as a powerful Dharma Protector in the realm of the Buddhas. From this, Setrap and Dorje Shugden are closely connected and very close working hand in hand always. After the cremation, the great 5th Dalai Lama built a Dorje Shugden chapel on the spot the cremation took place and named it Trode Khangsar. The 5th Dalai Lama commissioned the statue of Dorje Shugden in this chapel and had monks installed in the chapel to do continuous propitiations to Dorje Shugden. Trode Khangsar Chapel was a commemoration to Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen who was wronged and also a celebration of his consciousness arising as the World Peace Peace Protector Dorje Shugden.
This Trode Khangsar Chapel still exists now in Lhasa where many make pilgrimages there. It is in good condition and was recently renovated. It is over 400 years old and a testimony to the respect the Great 5th Dalai Lama had to Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen who arose as Dorje Shugden.
I have visited this holy chapel in Lhasa years back. I’ve never heard of it till I was in Lhasa and by chance, I was told about it which I was happy to visit. I could not find the place but strangely a bunch of pilgrims from Amdo told me they would show me how to get there in Lhasa.
This short video is a short clip of this holy Trode Khangsar Chapel in Lhasa today commemorating Dorje Shugden, built by the great 5th Dalai Lama. The great 5th Dalai Lama even composed a prayer to Dorje Shugden which is still available today and we can recite to invoke the blessings, protection, and assistance of World Peace Protector Dorje Shugden.
Tsem Rinpoche
Read more: Trode Khangsar – A 400-year-old Dorje Shugden Chapel in Lhasa
https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/dorje-shugden/trode-khangsar-%E2%80%93-a-400-year-old-dorje-shugden-chapel-in-lhasa.html
Short video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTybDwTeLAM
__________________________________
The 5th Dalai Lama’s Prayer to Dorje ShugdenHUM
Though unmoving from the sphere of primordial spontaneity,
With wrathful turbulent power, swifter than lightning,
Endowed with heroic courage to judge good and bad,
I invite you with faith, please come to this place!
Robes of a monk, crown adorned with rhinoceros leather hat,
Right hand holds ornate club, left holds a human heart,
Riding various mounts such as nagas and garudas,
Who subdues the mamos of the charnel grounds, praise to you!
Samaya substances, offerings and torma, outer, inner and secret,
Favourite visual offerings and various objects are arranged.
Although, previously, my wishes were a bit dense,
Do not stop your powerful apparitions, I reveal and confess!
Now respectfully praising with body, speech, and mind,
For us, the masters, disciples, benefactors and entourages,
Provide the good and avert the bad!
Bring increase like the waxing moon in spiritual and temporal realms!
Moreover, swiftly accomplishing all wishes,
According to our prayers, bestow the supreme effortlessly!
And like the jewel that bestows all wishes,
Always protect us with the Three Jewels!
From: http://www.dorjeshugden.org/practice/the-5th-dalai-lamas-prayer-to-dorje-shugden
Tibetan prayer from: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/dorje-shugden/the-14th-dalai-lamas-prayer-to-dorje-shugden.html
Due to the Dorje Shugden controversy, the credibility of the Tagphu incarnation is disputed right now. This is sad because Tagphu incarnations’s contribution is more than just Dorje Shugden but spans many authentic practices and especially on the Highest Yoga Tantra practice of Cittamani Tara.
Majority of Gelug Lamas are practicing and proliferating this form of Tara due to her efficacy in bringing about attainments. How Tagphu Rinpoche be so wrong about Dorje Shugden and so right about Tara? It’s too bad that lamas and practitioners deny this point. I believe that the visions of Taphu Pemavajra was real and that the practice of Dorje Shugden is an especially sacred one because it arose directly in Gaden and under the throne of Lama Tsongkhapa.
This in itself legitimises Dorje Shugden to be the principle protector of the Gelug teachings. It doesn’t matter of Dorje Shugden arose to protect Lama Tsongkhapa’s great tradition but the fact remains that he is one with Manjushri and therefore, he protects all beings. Hence, he is found to be historically practiced in all traditions.
今天早上与工作大伙儿一起研读尊贵第廿五世詹杜固仁波切博客帖文《第四世塔普．莲花金刚传记》（https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/guest-contributors/biography-the-4th-tagphu-pemavajra-jampel-tenpai-ngodrub.html）时，让我印象最深刻的是，当时在大家都认为Rinchen Wangyal 高僧所编写的life entrustment text 此佛典不见了，于是便请求至尊 帕绷喀仁波切撰写另一本佛典以取代它，帕绷喀仁波切循众所求写了这本名叫《种子字母》的佛典，可是帕绷喀仁波切并不满意自己所写来的这本书，因此便请求拥有自由穿梭星球能力的第四世塔普．莲花金刚到兜率天祈求至尊宗喀巴大师，给予纯淨无睱的多杰雄登持修法门。。。
皇天不负有心人，塔普仁波切在兜 率天获得了至尊宗喀巴大师的主要弟子杜津传授多杰雄登的教义和完整的life entrustment text，塔普仁波切从兜 率天回来后，将所有雄登护法的教义传授给帕绷喀仁波切。帕绷喀仁波切将这个完美无睱的多杰雄登教义传授给至尊赤江仁波切，从赤江仁波切那儿再传到至尊宋仁波切，现在由尊贵第廿五世詹杜固仁波切传授给我们， 足见雄登护法这个法门和教义是多么的殊胜啊。而作为詹仁波切的弟子，我们是何其的幸运啊！
其实，塔普莲花金刚是帕绷喀仁波切的上师，塔普仁波切在帕绷喀仁波切一生的佛法修习过程中，扮演着举足轻重的角色，当年塔普仁波切的细心引导，让帕绷喀仁波切这位在众多弟子不显出的他，对《菩提次道》的理解和诠释更加透彻和清明，并且在廿四天裡对《菩提次道》的开示，将此佛典讲解得深入浅出，易懂又容易掌握；这个连续廿四天的开示讲义后来被赤江仁波切编写，变成佛教显密派宝贵的必读佛典，也被当代佛教爱好者收藏。经过了无数次校对审阅和编译，进化成了我们熟悉的《掌中解脱》。试想若不是当年塔普仁波切慧眼识英雄，如今我们才有机缘读到这样有力量的一本佛典。
读了这篇文后才知道Pabongka Rinpoche的上师是 Tagphu Pemavajra ,而且是位大成就者，他所编写许多教义都一直受到其他高僧喇嘛认同，自己才知道如此幸运在茫茫人海 里遇见珍贵的传承，而且是实实在在的多杰雄登修持。
可想而知我们的传承是多么的殊胜并且延续至今，当你在做你的日常功课时也会感到骄傲。
Tagphu Pemavajra 的直属传承里 Tagphu Garwang Losang Chokyi Wangchuk 也是 了得因为 Cittamani Tara 仪轨是他’飞‘到 净土向Arya Tara 取得。Tagphu Pema
vajra 也将多个版本的掌中解脱传授 Pabongka Rinpoche 才会有24天掌中解脱授法。
Pabongka Rinpoche 和 他上师有着密切关系，和纯洁三昧耶。因此他们在一些场合会看见空行母，喜乐金刚和天神等等的殊胜情景。
在这里感谢 仁波切和 Cindy 把这篇好文章分享。因为我们在学习着的是道道地地的真法门。
Thank you Rinpoche and Cindy for sharing this article.
I have learnt from the article that :
Tagphu Pemavajra Rinpoche, who is generally regarded to be the 4th Tagphu incarnation is a highly mahasiddha with great attainments. His incarnation includes the 20th Gaden Tripa Ghodrak Zangpo, Tagphu Losang Chokyi Wangchuk (also known as Tagphu Garbing Choyki Wa) and Tagphu Lobsang Tenpai Gyaltsen
Tagphu incarnations were yogis famous for their vision of the Buddha deities and their ability to astral travel to various pure land to receive teaching directly from Buddha. Cittamani Tara cycle of teaching which is very widespread within the Gelug tradition were credited to Tagphu incarnations
Born in 1876 in Naksho (Khan, Tibet), Tagphu Pemavajra started his monastic studies at Draping Loseling Monastery in Lhasa at the age of 12. At the age of 30, Tagphu Pemavajra returned to Lhasa upon receiving a secret prophecy from Tara to meet up with Pabongka Rinpoche, who was the incarnation of Changkya Rolpai Dorje, a student of earlier Tagphu incarnation, Tagphu Pemavajra conferred many teaching to Pabongka Rinpoche.
Due to the teaching from Tagphu Pemavajra, and from his root Guru, Dagpo Lama Lobsang Jampel Lhundrub Gyatso, Pabongka Rinpoche had strong grounding in Lamrim and Lojong and this made it possible for Pabongka Rinpoche to deliver his famous 24-days Lamrim discourse at Chuzang Ritro in 1921, The discourse was subsequently documented by Trijang Rinpoche to become ‘Liberation in the Palm of Your Hand‘, one of the leading Lamrim texts today.
Tagphu Pemavajra is renowned for Astral-traveling and have vision of buddha.
At the request from Pabongka Rinpoche, Tagphu Pemavajra entered deep mediation and astral-travelled to Tushita Pure Land and received the completed instruction on the practise of Dorje Shugden and his Five Families directly from Duldzin Drakpha Gyaltsen, this include the entrustment initiation that was lost during the time of Pabongka Rinpoche.
Due to the effort of Tagphu Pemavajra and Pabongka Rinpoche, the authenticity of Dorje Shugden practises had been transmitted from Pabangka Rinpoche to Trijang Rinpoche, Trijang Rinpoche to Zong Rinpoche and Zong Rinpoche to Tsem Rinpoche, and we are so fortunate to have receive the Dorje Shugden practise from Tsem Rinpoche
Thank you
Pee Bee Chong
Thank you Rinpoche and Cindy Hew about the write up of our lineage master. The Tagphu lineage is such an important master that as a Gelug lineage practitioner we must really well understand where is our lineage come from the history of how a particular practice being pass down by all the great master, as more we read about our lineage holder history it will increase our faith in our practice and also inspiring us to stay in the path because the lineage is authentic and real.
Learning about every aspect of our lineage is important. From here, we learnt that the Tagphu incarnations play a pivotal role in the Gelugpa school because many of the veteran students from Gaden, Drepung and Sera would have received the teachings from the Tagphu incarnations directly or indirectly. His Holiness the 4th Tagphu Pemavajra Jampel Tenpai Ngodrub is the guru of Pabongka Rinpoche. Pabongka Rinpoche is the guru to Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche who is the tutor to the 14th Dalai Lama and many other erudite spiritual masters who are revered worldwide today.
Tagphu Pemavajra is instrumental in shaping the teachings of modern days Gelugpa school because he had bestowed Pabongka Rinpoche with teachings that are still being used widely, namely:
• Lojong (mind transformation)
• Detailed commentary on the 4 Combined Annotations on the Lamrim chen mo (by Lama Tsongkaha)
• Annotation to the Lamrim chen mo by Baso Choyki Gyaltsen, Jamyang Zhepa, Ngawang Rabten and Rinchen Dondrup.
• Teaching on the Easy Path Lamrim and the Swift Path Lamrim
• Guhyasamaja practice
• Six Yogas of Naropa
• Cittamani Tara
• Lama Chopa
• And a long list of other initiations and teachings, which include authentic instruction of the practice on Dorje Shugden and His Five Families.
It is noteworthy to know that if not for Tagphu Pemavajra and Pabongka Rinpoche, the life entrustment initiation (Sogtae) of Dorje Shugden would have been lost.
Thus, it is extremely important to respect the teachings from Guru within our lineage. Without a pure lineage and blessing from Root Guru, we will not gain any spiritual attainment, especially if we are serious practitioners on the Vajrayana Buddhism path.
Thank you very much, Rinpoche and Cindy Hew for this insightful article to deepen our knowledge about our lineage.
Humbly, bowing down,
Stella Cheang
A wonderful and well researched article.
You stated that “Tagphu Pemavarja had many other illustrious students including DEMO RINPOCHE…”. Is this the Demo Rinpoche of Tengyeling Monastery in Lhasa?
Thank you Cindy for this informative article about Tagphu Pemavajra.
These five points are the most prominent of what I have learnt.
1. Tagphu Pemavajra is a highly attained master who possess many extraordinary abilities that helped him to retrieve lost teachings and gain new teachings from the deities themselves.
2. It is by the request of his students, Pabongka to that Tagphu Pemavajra astral travelled to Tushita to receive the teachings of Dorje Shugden.
3. The relationship between Tagphu Pemavajra and Pabongka Rinpoche is sometimes reversal. Tagphu Pemavajra had received teachings from Pabongka Rinpoche and vice versa.
4. Tagphu Pemavajra had taught Pabongka Rinpoche many types of Lamrim teachings which contributed to the 24day of Lamrim discourse by Pabongka Rinpoche.
5. Tagphu Pemavajra is very important in our lineage because many of the teachings was retrieved by him and most of the teachings are still very important till this day. Example will be Dorje Shugden Sogtae and Cittamani Tara.
This greataster had contributed so much to our lineage. His ability to receive teachings directly from the deities themselves had resulted in the strong blessings that was in the teachings in our lineage because it is directly from the deities.
Thank you Cindy for this biography of the 4th Tagphu Pemavajra Jampel Tenpai Ngodrub which clearly shows how highly accomplished a mahasiddha he was. I find the following points particularly signiifcant in this biography.
As Pabongka Rinpoche’s teacher, he had transmitted many significant teachings and practices to him, as well as to Trijang Rinpoche, which have been preserved to this day. Tagphu Pemavajra and Pabongka Rinpoche had a strong karmic connection developed over many lifetimes.The actual first encounter of Tagphu Pemavajra and Pabongka Rinpoche in Lhasa was intentional and is supposed to have come about upon Tagphu Pemvajra receiving a secret prophecy from Tara, his yidam. Thereafter, Tagphu Pemavajra began to transmit many vital practices and lineages to Pabongka Rinpoche.
One can safely attribute Pabongka Rinpoche’s strong grounding in Lamrim and Lojong in part to Tagphu Pemavajra’s transmission to him of various Lamrim Chenmo teachings and commentaries, as well as an experiential explanation of the Easy Path Lamrim and practical instructions on the Swift Path Lamrim, alongside teachings on The Blissful Path Lamrim composed by the 4th Panchen Lama that Pabongka Rinpoche received from his root Guru, Dagpo Lama Lobsang Jampel Lhundrub Gyatso.
As a result of this rich grounding, Pabongka Rinpoche was able to deliver his famous 24-day Lamrim discourse at Chuzang Ritro in 1921, which was subsequently documented by Trijang Rinpoche to become ‘Liberation in the Palm of Your Hand‘, one of the leading Lamrim texts today.
One of Tagphu Pemavajra’s remarkable deeds which continues to influence the Gelug lineage significantly relates to his role in ensuring the authenticity of instructions on the practice of Dorje Shugden and his Five Families. At the request of Pabongka Rinpoche, Tagphu Pemavajra entered deep meditation and astral-travelled to Tushita Pure Land where Lama Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug tradition, resides. There, he received the complete instructions on the practice of Dorje Shugden and his Five Families, including the life entrustment initiation, directly from Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen.
Upon returning from Tushita Pure Land, Tagphu Pemavajra painstakingly documented the instructions and subsequently passed on the practices to Pabongka Rinpoche. It can be safely said that the Dorje Shugden line of lineage lamas originates from Lama Tsongkhapa to Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen followed by Tagphu Pemavajra, and then to Pabongka Rinpoche, Trijang Rinpoche and to their students. Pabongka Rinpoche also composed his famous fulfilment ritual (kangsol) entitled ‘Melodious Drum Victorious in All Directions’ based on transmissions from Tagphu Pemavajra. This text continues to be frequently used by practitioners all over the world to this day.
Thus it can be seen that Tagphu Pemavajra has played a significant role in transmitting vital lineage teachings and practices to us in th epresent time through Pabongka Rinpoche and Trijang Rinpoche. To this great master and mahasiddha who hails from an illustrious line of Tagphu incarnations I prostrate.
Dear Rinpoche.
Thank you for this invaluable article that I gain knowledge about the 4th Tagphu Pemavajra Jampel Tenpai Ngodrub,guru of H.H. Kyabje Pabongka Rinpoche. I am really excited to learn all these valuable teachings which came from great teachers from gelug tradition. May Dorje shugden bless you!
_/\_ _/\_ _/\_
Thank you Rinpoche and Cindy for this enlightening article of our lineage Guru that had brought us Cittamani Tara cycle of teachings, the highest “Maha Annuttara Yoga Tantra”, as well as, Five-deity Amitayus, Hayagriva, Chenrezig Gyalwa Gyatso and etc. Such an illustrious line of incarnations known for their “astral” travel abilities to visit “pure lands”, having direct pure visions and teachings from the Buddhas’ themselves. The 4th Tagphu Pemavajra Jampel Tenpai’s authenticity can be proven through his deeds and achievements.
Since the 4th Tagphu Pemavajra Jampel Tenpai is such an attained master who holds an important role in the lineage Guru that without him, we effectively cut off the blessings which render the practise of Cittamani Tara Tantra ineffective. With such an enlightened mind, that had brought us such high Tantric practises, how can he not know if Dorje Shugden is a spirit and dangerous to be propitiated? Doesn’t make sense at all! Therefore if he is able to astral travel to Tushita to receive the complete instructions on the practice of Dorje Shugden and his Five Families, including the life entrustment initiation, directly from Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen, one of Lama Tsongkhapa’s main disciples and also one of the previous lives of Dorje Shugden, we should unquestionably have complete faith in Protector Dorje Shugden’s practise.
If one can question the authenticity of such a illustrious stainless lineage master due to some trumped up political ban, then that person might as well not practise as one would not get the lineage blessings at all.
From my understanding, both Cittamani Tara Maha Annutara Yoga and the Dorje Shugden practice came from the same line of incarnation. Both were given by the deities themselves. And, both these practices were passed on to Pabongka Rinpoche, who taught the Lamrim which forms the backbone of the Gelug. The Tagpu or Garwang line of incarnations is an illustrious one and Pabongka Rinpoche is no mere monk.
Both Cittamani Tara and Dorje Shugden were taught by Pabongka Rinpoce to the Gelug school. So, if the Cittamani Tara empowerment is given to thousands by the Dalai Lama and other high Lamas, would this mean that it is a tremendous blessing and can lead the practitioner to enlightenment? The Dalai Lama in his clairvoyance, wisdom and compassion would not give a doubtful practice to the masses.
So, by the same breath, Dorje Shugden should be a blessing as it came from the same line of incarnation and from the same teacher which is Pabongka Rinpoche.
So, to me, the mere fact that the Dalai Lama and other high Lamas are giving empowerment of Cittamani Tara to thousands assures me that the practice of Dorje Shugden is not a ‘mistake’ and merely affirms that the Dorje Shugden is not a demonic practice.
Thank you, Cindy for the sharing.
In the effort of some to discredit the Dorje Shugden practice, they have in fact dismissed Tagphu Pemavajra Jampel Tenpai Ngodrub as a lama without any attainments and who was responsible for initiating a ‘demonic’ practice.
We see from this article, that Tagpu Pemavajra was no ordinary lama and to try and cast this great yogi aside (on account of his ‘founding’ of the Dorje Shugden practice) would be to foolishly pull the central thread from the rich tapestry which is the holy Gelug lineage. You cannot remove Tagpu Pemavajra without disassembling a cornerstone of Lama Tsongkhapa’s lineage.
The relationship between Tagpu Pemavajra and his student Pabongka Rinpoche is also of great significance. In the life time of the 4th Tagpu Pemavajra, their collaboration ushered in the practice of Dorje Shugden. In a previous lifetime, Tagpu Losang Tenpai Gyaltsen (previous incarnation of Tagpu Pemavajra) wrote a commentary on Naro Kacho as the request of Changya Rolpe Dorje (previous incarnation of Pabongka Rinpoche).
Considering the greatness of the Tagpu line, and the many key and valid practices associated with this line of incarnation, it is preposterous to suggest that this Mahasiddha went to Tushita and brought back an evil practice.
Thank you Rinpoche and Cindy for writing up on this holy being, Tagphu Pemavajra. It is because of him, today we are able to practice something very holy,of authentic lineage and no words can correctly describe the blessings we get from being able to do the practices of the Protector as it was transmitted directly from one of Lama Tsongkapas 8 main disciples , in Tusita Heaven itself! to Tagpu Pemavajra who, then taught it to the Holy Pabongka Rinpoche. thus we can also infer from this that the Protector practice is holy and the connection to the Great Lama Tsongkapa aso
Dear Rinpoche,
Thank you very much for sharing this invaluable and well researched article on Pabongkha Rinpoche’s Guru. It is indeed enlightening to learn that Dorje Shugden was already protecting Lama Tsongkhapa’s lineage and teachings.
With folded hands, humbly yours.
Lum Kok Luen