Reuters Anti-Dorje Shugden Report Backfires
On 21 December 2015, Reuters published a special investigation of the Dorje Shugden issue titled “China co-opts a Buddhist sect in global effort to smear Dalai Lama”. It was supposed to be an unbiased investigation into the Dorje Shugden movement and its alleged links to China. The report has since reverberated throughout the world, lauded by supporters of the ban as evidence that China does indeed support Dorje Shugden and Shugden practitioners.
The article has also invited responses, starting first with a response from the Chinese Foreign Ministry, followed by an objective analysis by Justin Whitaker on Patheos and insightful coverage on the online radio Sputnik by political journalist Andrew Korybko.
Already you will see many outsiders and non-Buddhists are studying carefully and questioning the ban on Dorje Shugden which is VERY GOOD NEWS. The more people know the truth because of the accurate information we put out there, the greater the pressure for the exiled Tibetan leadership to remove the ban. All the problems came from the ban. The ban started from the Tibetan leadership. If they want harmony, then it’s time for both sides to sit down and talk, and discuss on how to dismantle this ban immediately.
Tsem Rinpoche
Reuters
This is the original report published by Reuters. As a result, China with its large economy and political influence in the world, has declared openly that they will support religious freedom and all faiths, including the worship of Dorje Shugden. Their statement was a direct response to this Reuters article. This is very good news because the Chinese government is atheist. For an atheist government to openly declare that they give religious freedom to all faiths and forms of worship is definitely moving in the right direction. We should applaud China for this official change instead of criticising them. This support will have positive impact for Dorje Shugden practitioners everywhere because the exiled Tibetan leadership and their supporters have always insisted that there is a link between Shugden practice and China which is totally false. This statement also shows China’s positive direction of opening up their previously atheist restrictions to openly accepting all forms of worship and further states it is a private matter left up to their citizens.
In summation:
- The article alleges there are links between Dorje Shugden practitioners and China. These allegations are based on the testimony of one already-discredited witness and some anonymous sources
- International Shugden Community protestors are criticised for exercising their right to freedom of speech, in order to protest for their religious freedoms. Along with some Dorje Shugden lamas, the article alleges that the protestors are receiving funding and directives from the Chinese leadership
- Without any evidence, Reuters alleges that China is using the Dorje Shugden issue to create schism within the Tibetan community
Please do click on the image below to read the original article so that you understand the analyses to follow. It is important to understand this issue well because it directly concerns the future of our practice of Dorje Shugden. Despite such a lengthy investigation by a reputable news agency, questions are already being raised as to the veracity and accuracy of Reuters’ report. These questions are being raised by Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike, as well as non-Shugden practitioners who are in support of the truth.
Click on image to enlarge.
From the Chinese Foreign Ministry
Click on image to enlarge.
The Chinese government responded by saying that all citizens have the freedom of belief in China, and that “all religions and sects receive equal respect and protection”. The Chinese leadership’s response is in stark contrast to the exiled Tibetan leadership in Dharamsala. People may claim what they like, but there is no denying that they are the original source of this conflict by suppressing the rights of Dorje Shugden practitioners and ignoring their religious freedoms. It has been nearly two decades since the ban was first implemented in 1996 without the consultation and input of the Tibetan people, not unlike the theocratic behaviour that the Chinese Foreign Ministry highlights in their response to Reuters.
I was also happy to see that the Chinese Foreign Ministry demonstrates an understanding of Dorje Shugden’s nature, history and background. It shows that they have been watching and learning and reading up about Dorje Shugden, and that the evidence is overwhelming that he is not a spirit. It is up to people whether they want to believe in Dorje Shugden or not, but the Chinese government themselves recognise that Dorje Shugden is a protecting deity (and not a spirit).
If the exiled Tibetan leadership had hoped to embarrass Shugden practitioners by shedding light on their so-called links with China, I would say their plans have backfired because it gave the Chinese leadership another opportunity to highlight the shortcomings and authoritarian behaviour of the exiled Tibetan leadership. They also gave China an opportunity to officially recognise and support the practice of Dorje Shugden, and openly state everyone has religious freedom.
Isn’t it ironic that Dharamsala is becoming more and more suppressive of religious freedoms, while the Chinese government who is accused of suppressing religious freedoms is actually becoming more and more open?
Justin Whitaker on Patheos.com
The Chinese Foreign Ministry’s response was swiftly followed by an objective analysis by Mr Justin Whitaker who has previously examined the Shugden issue. In fact, Mr Whitaker previously had some relatively anti-Shugden conclusions.
Although Mr Whitaker previously made disparaging remarks about the practice, still he points out that the original article by Reuters, while broad, actually contains many shortcomings and assumptions.
Mr Whitaker is rightly concerned that the Reuters investigation does not produce any evidence to any of the claims made. Although the report is supposed to investigate a link between Shugden practice and China, Mr Whitaker recognises that allegations made are not different than what we have heard before. The title of the report therefore is quite misleading – it paints a confident picture that this link is confirmed when in fact, it is not and the report relies mostly on the testimony of an informant. We are not sure if Mr Whitaker is aware of this, but Lama Tseta as an informant has already been discredited by the Tibetan community who no longer take his claims seriously.
One of the five points made by Mr Whitaker. Scroll down to read the rest.
Months ago, when Lama Tseta’s “testimony” was first published, it was pointed out that a video testimony without evidence is not a testimony at all. Any Tom, Dick and Harry can sit in front of a camera and record themselves saying anything they want but unless they have proof, their words are just hollow accusations. His claims that he was the head of the Dorje Shugden Society were never proven. For example, he never showed photographs of his work and actually, his claims were later refuted by people that everybody knows are actual members of the Dorje Shugden Society. When questioned and asked to show proof of his claims, he stayed quiet. It was later revealed that Lama Tseta had been lying to receive funding and other benefits from the exiled Tibetan leadership.
How come the only source for these media outlets is Lama Tseta, who has already lost his credibility? How come no one wants to openly come out and confirm the links to China if it is so true? How come Lama Tseta has no proof of his claims and no one questions this, and how come this so-called official from the Indian Interior Ministry only speaks on condition of anonymity? What are they afraid of and what are they trying to hide?
More of the five points made by Mr Whitaker. Scroll down to read the rest.
Mr Whitaker also takes issue with Reuters’ treatment of Shugden worshippers as one homogenous group. Other commentators familiar with Tibetan society have the same perspective, for example Jamyang Norbu and even Lukar Jam. In his Sikyong manifesto, Lukar Jam recognised three groups of Shugden practitioners and called for “a nuance, comprehensive policy to tackle the issue”. This perspective particularly interests me because they are correct to see that not all Shugden practitioners have the exact same view.
This is not just unique for Shugden practitioners. Within the group who don’t practise Dorje Shugden, there are people who are respectful of our personal choices and there are people who are not. So everybody has a different view. For example, some Shugden practitioners hold His Holiness responsible for the ban and they are very strong about this. Whether they are right or wrong is not the point. On the other hand, I always advise my students to respect His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Not only is His Holiness one of my Gurus (but not my root guru) and I have received teachings and practices from him, but also many lamas like His Holiness Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche have advised us to keep faith in both Dorje Shugden and His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and not to disrespect or abandon either one. So I must follow.
I hope more and more people will read Mr Whitaker’s analysis because it points to the danger of viewing all Shugden practitioners as one homogenous mass. It risks alienating people who may be able to come together to bridge the divide, and end this conflict once and for all.
Click on image to enlarge.
Andrew Korybko on Sputnik Radio
Lama Tseta’s credibility was also questioned by Mr Andrew Korybko, a political journalist, who gave a very good summary of the Shugden issue. What is very important about Mr Korybko that you need to know is that he does not appear to have any links to Buddhism. He is not a Buddhist, he does not appear to be interested in Buddhism and he does not appear to have any background in the Dorje Shugden matter. So his stance is 100% objective because he does not have anything to gain from supporting the Dalai Lama or going against him, or supporting Dorje Shugden or going against the practice.
Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/blog-andrew-korybko.mp4
Transcript:
Third on the countdown is Reuters’ anti-China fail, where they tried implicating Beijing for supporting an anti-Dalai Buddhist group, but in reality, raised awareness about his autocratic sectarianism. So folks, I found this story to be extraordinarily interesting and have been waiting to share with you guys.
Reuters came up with an article that was part of their anti-China series, entitled “China Co-opts a Buddhist Sect in Global Effort to Smear Dalai Lama” and guys, is it fascinating or what? Now, forget about the fact that nothing in this entire article can be proven, and even they admit that there’s no proof except for some disgruntled monk’s testimony and that’s it. But folks, did you know that Dalai Lama is fiercely sectarian? Did you even know that sectarianism exists in Buddhism? Now, I did, well, to an extent because I have been researching new religion in general for unrelated political reasons but I wasn’t aware of this. Here’s what’s going on in a nutshell.
For centuries, the Dalai Lama respected, and in some cases even worshipped Dorje Shugden, a Buddhist spirit-creature that is seen by many as a Protector but then the current Dalai Lama came along and because he wanted to centralize the beliefs of his flock and gain total control over them, he said it is wrong to worship this entity back around 1996 or so. And guys, did it create an outcry or what? Buddhists the world over were shocked, even those that liked the Dalai Lama and supported his ethnic aggression against China. They felt betrayed. It might not be the best comparison, but that would be like the Catholic Pope all of a sudden saying that it is not ok to pray to a very popular saint, that it must be stopped immediately. People were flat out confused, and then they realized that what China had been saying all along was right – the Dalai Lama is a sectarian politically-minded individual who wants to split Chinese society, be it Han or Tibetan to achieve nefarious purposes.
Well, as any scorned individual would ballistically do, especially those religiously scorned like the millions of Buddhists that the Dalai Lama disrespected and basically labelled as “infidels”, they began a protest movement and now they follow him all across the world. They have a worldwide presence, and they make a scene everywhere he goes. They are especially prevalent in the West – in the UK and the US in particular. And Reuters has taken a flamboyant and false stand that they are somehow all paid by Beijing and under its influence. Wait a second here, if the propaganda of the past six decades is to be believed, doesn’t China supposedly hate Buddhists? Why would it side with that? You see, what I’m pointing out here is that it is all misinformation, every single bit of it. And that they change their script however they like in order to pursue their main narrative – Dalai Lama good, anything opposed to him bad, even other Buddhists.
I was a bit shocked with the article to be honest with you all, because I mean to regular thinking minds like mine and all of you guys who are listening, this piece raises awareness about the Dalai Lama’s autocratic sectarianism, and it is not really a smear piece at all if you think about it, to resort to such a radical change in angle and script that now Pro-Chinese Buddhists are siding with the anti-Buddhist Chinese. I mean come on, get out of here, it’s just condescending to the readers and it shows how desperate Reuters, but most importantly the people behind them feeding them the so-called lead for these stories are, to manufacture some kind of, any kind of anti-Chinese pro-Dalai Lama message, no matter the consequences it has for any logic involved whatsoever.
So this analysis is the view of somebody who is new to the topic, and has no interest in Tibetan politics or Tibetan Buddhism. And after doing his own investigation, he has come to the conclusion that all evidence of a link between Shugden and China is circumstantial and based on the testimony of a “disgruntled monk”.
Mr Korybko himself brings up some important points:
- Although there is no evidence, Reuters and other news agencies always appear to be in such a rush to publish anti-China articles. Actually my students did some research and they found that there are rumours that Reuters is controlled by the British government. So even though they are a private company, they publish articles that indirectly support the British government’s interests. Reuters is a respected news agency so I cannot understand why they would publish an article with claims that have no evidence unless it was for some other reason, or unless they were misled by their informants and investigators.
The underlined sentence reads “Reuters is nominally a private enterprise, but in actual fact it is controlled by the government, and is the official mouthpiece of the British”. Click on image to enlarge and scroll down for the full translation.
- The article backfired and now highlights that His Holiness may actually be sectarian, and then gives a lot of evidence as to why. It’s without question that the people who are responsible for the ban are the Tibetan leadership. If China is indeed paying anyone, the only reason why they have anyone to pay is because the Tibetan leadership created the ban! The article also focuses so much on the ban and the protests. The fact people are protesting means they have something to be upset about, and the fact His Holiness keeps ignoring them and doesn’t want dialogue means he’s not willing to resolve whatever issues they’re unhappy with.
- That Dharamsala are always changing their story to keep up with their narrative that His Holiness is good. The Tibetan leadership have no firm stance on anything, and they change their minds as and when they wish, based on what they think His Holiness wants. This kind of government is very difficult to trust, if you ask me, because they change their minds all the time without any thorough explanation to their citizens.
- The ban on Dorje Shugden started 19 years ago in 1996. Tibetans have been in exile for 60 years since 1959. Have the Chinese leadership been paying Dorje Shugden practitioners since the protests or for the additional 37 years beforehand? In either case, it would be very generous (and illogical) of the Chinese leadership to financially support Buddhists who rely on Dorje Shugden, considering Tibetans have always insisted that China hates Buddhism. You know, if the Chinese government is funding any Shugden groups, then the Tibetan government should be fair and stop funding any anti-Shugden groups. Western donors should also stop funding the Tibetan leadership because their donations are being used to suppress and marginalise groups of people based on their faith.
- The fact is that the protests have only been a regular occurrence since 2008 and prior to that, Dorje Shugden was already being worshipped for 400 years. Mr Korybko even knows that at one point, His Holiness also relied on Dorje Shugden.
Translation of the Baidu article on Reuters:
Reuters (LSE:RTR, NASDAQ:, RTRSY) is one of the world’s earliest established agencies. It is currently the UK’s largest news agency and one of the four largest Western news agencies. As one of the world’s top three largest multimedia news agencies, Reuters provides all kinds of news and financial data, and operates in 128 countries. Reuters provides news to the newspapers, television and other types of media, and is internationally reputed to provide fast and accurate reporting. Reuters also provides trading tools and platforms for stocks and foreign exchange, so traders can analyze financial data and manage the risk of transactions ; at the same time, Reuters’ system enables customers to complete their trading transactions via the Internet, replacing trading through telephone or traditional transactions at the New York Stock Exchange trading hall. The electronic trading service also connects the members of the financial communities.
Reuters was founded by a British man, Paul Julius Reuter in 1850 in Aachen, Germany, who moved to London, England the following year. In 1865, Reuter expanded his private news agency into a big company. In 1916, Reuters was reorganised as Reuters Limited. It is renowned globally for its speedy news reporting that is widely used by newspapers around the world. Reuters is nominally a private enterprise, but in actual fact it is controlled by the government, and is the official mouthpiece of the British.
[Source: http://baike.baidu.com/view/72489.htm]
Conclusion
The Reuters article was accompanied by this short video which recognises that 20 years ago, His Holiness was much more popular than he is today. Embarrassingly, the Reuters correspondent David Lague himself acknowledges that the Dalai Lama’s popularity is declining, thereby confirming that the so-called “smear campaign” against His Holiness is working. For Shugden practitioners who are committed to protesting against the ban, hearing such a statement merely provides more incentive to protest, knowing that their efforts are having an impact.
Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/Reuters.mp4
In this way, the Reuters article has actually backfired. Not only has it provided incentive for the protestors to continue by telling them their efforts are working, but the publication of this report led to China issuing an official statement granting full religious freedom to all faiths, including Dorje Shugden. In publishing this report, Reuters prompted China to officially recognise Dorje Shugden as a practice, thereby granting it all religious rights afforded under Chinese law.
In the video, Mr Lague also claimed possession of a document proving China’s official support for Dorje Shugden but it seems such a document may no longer be relevant or necessary now that the Chinese Foreign Ministry has issued their statement recognising Dorje Shugden as an official practice. It would however be good journalistic practice for Mr Lague to produce this document, to show at least some proof of the links that Reuters alleges to exist between Dorje Shugden practice and China. After all, in the Reuters investigation, the only proof offered thus far was the testimony of a few anonymous sources and a monk who credibility is already highly questionable.
Mr Lague also failed to recognise that the recent public relations damage to His Holiness’ image had nothing to do with Shugden practitioners. It was not a Shugden practitioner that authored or published the VICE article, nor was it a Shugden practitioner who made remarks about His Holiness’ successor. It was in fact His Holiness the Dalai Lama himself who remarked that his successor, should there be one, must be an attractive female. This comment was picked up, broadcast and analysed by media agencies all over the world as a sexist comment out of place in contemporary thought.
Increasingly, due to incidents like these, we are seeing the Tibetan leadership’s popularity and influence waning. We are also seeing more and more people questioning why the exiled Tibetan leadership never provided any concrete basis for the ban on Dorje Shugden, and why all the claims and allegations made about Shugden practitioners never have any proof or basis.
How come Lama Tseta is allowed to make so many allegations against Dorje Shugden worshippers but he isn’t asked to provide any evidence at all? And even when he cannot provide evidence, people still publish his views? In the past, he has been able to say that Shugden lamas are responsible for the alleged murders in the Institute of Buddhist Dialectics in Dharamsala. How does Lama Tseta know this and does he have any evidence? If he doesn’t have evidence, he should stop talking about it. And if he does have evidence, he should not withhold it. He should go to the authorities like Interpol with his evidence or else he is an accessory to murder.
The Reuters report also mentions foreign governments are less willing to meet with His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Click on image to enlarge.
More and more we are seeing that Dorje Shugden practitioners are being victimised and abused, and these conclusions are being arrived at by people who are not connected to the practice. In the original Reuters article, the journalists quote Zhu Weiqun (religious-affairs official) as saying that the international media are “less and less interested in the Dalai Lama”. This is definitely true because nowadays, more foreign governments and heads of state are less willing to meet with His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
I think it is sad that His Holiness’ work has been overshadowed by this Dorje Shugden issue. The more articles like the Reuters one are published, the more people are forced to speak up and highlight the illegal ban even if they are not Buddhists themselves. It’s just logical – if Reuters had not published their article, then maybe China would not have been forced to take a public stand on the Dorje Shugden issue, and Mr Whitaker and Mr Korbyko’s powerful analyses would not have been published. Now that it is all published, they simply add to the growing body of work that is not in favour of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
Sources
- http://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/china-dalailama/
- http://in.reuters.com/article/china-dalailama-response-idINKBN0U420120151221
- http://www.patheos.com/blogs/americanbuddhist/2015/12/5-things-we-learned-and-dont-from-the-reuters-investigation-into-the-buddhist-shugden-sect-china-and-the-dalai-lama.html
- sputniknews.com/radio_context_countdown/20151225/1032303406/dorje-shugden-refugee-confiscations.html
- http://baike.baidu.com/view/72489.htm
For more interesting information:
- The Dorje Shugden category on my blog
- China officially supports Dorje Shugden
- Reuters Investigation on Dorje Shugden Inaccurate?
- When Reuters becomes a tool of oppression
- Dalai Lama, China & Dorje Shugden
- Dorje Shugden: My side of the story (多杰雄登：我这方面的说法)
- To Sum It Up
- Dorje Shugden people
- This happened in the USA
- I can speak up now about Shugden
Please support us so that we can continue to bring you more Dharma:
If you are in the United States, please note that your offerings and contributions are tax deductible. ~ the tsemrinpoche.com blog team
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
For the first time available, Dorje Shugden and his entourage of 32 asssistants 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
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
This elderly & innocent monk in India was brutally attacked, find out why. Shocking – https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=163953
“If the Dalai Lama, if His Holiness the Dalai Lama can be harmed by Dorje Shugden, then we might as well not practice Buddhism anymore. If His Holiness the Dalai Lama can have his life shortened by a so-called evil spirit, any evil spirit, then can he be Avalokiteshvara? So on one hand you say, we say, I say, everybody says, he is Avalokiteshvara; on the other hand you’re saying that he can be harmed by an evil spirit… Which one is it? Can he be harmed by an evil spirit or is he Avalokiteshvara? Do you think Avalokiteshvara, Manjushri, Vajrapani, Tara all take refuge in something else to protect themselves from Dorje Shugden? How illogical is that? How illogical of people to say His Holiness the Dalai Lama can be harmed by an evil spirit, any evil spirit or “Dorje Shugden” evil spirit. How is that possible?” – Tsem Tulku Rinpoche
Photo: His Holiness the Dalai Lama, young Tsem Tulku Rinpoche and Tsem Tulku Rinpoche’s tutor Kensur Rinpoche Jampa Yeshe
DON’T MISS THIS! FANTASTIC NEW GREAT STUFF! High quality videos redressing the misinformation about Dorje Shugden practice and people and the current sad Tibetan situation and why they are losing ground in the world. Powerful and truthful – CLEAR VIDEOS – https://bit.ly/2LJbo35
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.
In line with the recent de-escalation in Asia, such as the reset of Sino-Indian ties, an article about His Eminence the 25th Tsem Tulku Rinpoche offering his strong prayers and thanksgiving was published on Reuters.
Share and read the good news here: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/reuters-publishes-my-reconciliation-prayers-for-asia.html
A true democracy allows everyone the freedom to exercise their human rights, including the freedom to practise any religion they want. In democratic countries, the government does not interfere with this right. Neither are democratic governments prejudiced against their citizens’ choice of religious belief. They do not force people to stop their religious practice or pass legislation criminalising people because of their religion.
The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), the Tibetan leadership who are based in Dharamsala are the exception. They are the only so-called ‘democratic’ leadership that puts a stranglehold on its people, persecuting them for their religious beliefs. They deny the rights of Dorje Shugden practitioners for simply practicing their religion as they have done for the past 400 years. Dorje Shugden practitioners are ostracised from their own community, denied medical care, education or even employment in government offices. The CTA definitely does not live up to the right to be called a democratic administration, especially when in it inflicts suppression of people’s freedom and disrespects basic human rights.
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videouploads/comment-1523907609.mp4
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videouploads/comment-1519934791.mp4
Will the CTA (Tibetan govt in exile) and their supporters in East and West say voodoo is evil and cannot be practiced too? Will they advise against Voodoo and say its a demon’s practice and people who practice are bad too? Truth be told, no one has the right to say anything about anyone’s religion. Listen to what this man says in the short snagged clip because he speaks well and with the truth.
Watch the rest of the video on Youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n0_syJQBteA
Isn’t this just lovely?! Look at these cute Tibetan kids singing praises to Dorje Shugden during Losar celebration in Tibet! Great blessings to all – Click to watch! ???
https://video.tsemtulku.com/chat-videos/chat-1519938132.mp4
This excerpt of the Swiss Television documentary presented in 1988 is a painful reminder of the hypocrisy and the sad reality of the oppression, discrimination, and ostracisation of Dorje Shugden practitioners. For 20 years, Dorje Shugden practitioners have endured this and no one supported their fight as the Tibetan leadership in exile continues to undermine their effort by denying the existence of this ban, and silencing their voice by peer pressure, flooding the media and fooling the general public with accusations that Shugden practitioners are political tools supported by the Chinese government to create discord within the Tibetan community. Please listen to their plea and please share this video far and wide to end this injustice.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gis2vaURT40
The entire episode of this illogical ban on the practice of Dorje Shugden over the last 20+ years have brought nothing but many illogical and needless political conspiracy theories, that have unfortunately, brought to the world stage and like a ceiling fan being splattered with wet paint, it is spread and hits all the way to the government of the world’s most powerful nation. And yet the small “fry” government-in-exile does not wake up and adapt itself to this “lost” cause.
With all these evidence and more objective reporting being published, it is best that the government-in-exile bow out of this scenario and end the ban immediately.
Great message every Tibetan especially must read!
I still love and miss His Holiness the Dalai Lama. I am hoping he will unite all of us no matter what our religion is. I know he will. His Holiness has done so much good in the world. I’ve admired him since I was a very young boy and when I met him for the first time in 1979. He came to Howell, New Jersey where I grew up. It was magical to see him. I pray one day he will accept all Dorje Shugden practitioners as was his root guru was a Dorje Shugden practitioner and invite us into his presence again with love and acceptance. I pray for his long life and continued presence in this world. I never lost hope in His Holiness the Dalai Lama to accept all of us regardless of race, religion, sect and background once again.
I place my unworthy head to his feet, Humbly, Tsem Rinpoche https://www.tsemrinpoche.com
The Tibetan leadership’s smear campaign against Dorje Shugden has been going on for 20years now but instead of succeeding, there are signs that the public have seen through the Tibetan leadership’s ploy to wipe out the practice and are not beginning to embrace the Protector practice instead. One example is this very good comment left by Suzy on Tsem Rinpoche’s YouTube channel-https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vl-4lIwxph4&t=11s
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
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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
I am born in Malaysia, and familiar with mainly things around here. I don’t really understand how Tibetans think, but due to the kindness of Tsem Rinpoche, I have now a glimpse. Rinpoche is always very alert and accurate in His analysis.
Reuter as a large and credible news agency should have studied more and probably see some proofs before publishing such article. But may be due to the “news worthy”, they published this article even without much substance. It is also possible that anything which is “anti-China” is news worthy, since so many people pro-China now because everyone wants a piece of business with China.
If Reuters and western countries are so concerned about religious freedom, then why do they associate with HH Dalai Lama who openly segregate and suppress the practice? Why condemn China for non-democracy, but associate with people like HH Dalai Lama who openly suppress religious freedom? Why the double standards?
I agree with Wai Meng that I am glad it backfired Reuters.
This article, shows that not only Dorje Shudgen people find this article has no basis, others who are not Dorje Shudgen practitioners, also have checked out this article and found it to be lacking. This is a good sign, that despite many denials and mistruths about the Dorje Shudgen issue, the truth is coming out for good into the light.
The Reuters article, is proof that might is not right. News Agencies cannot simply create news and assume people will just swallow it line, hook and sinker. Not in this time and age, whereby people have learning and education. The time whereby Je Tsongkhapa’s teachings is most suited to the people of this particular time.
I am glad it backfired on Reuters, they were out of their depth with that article.
Thank you for having the strength, courage and genuine care to stand up and speak peacefully for what you believe in. No one should ever suffer, be segregated, assaulted, hurt, degraded, belittled, cursed, hated and biased for their religious beliefs. No one should advise anyone against any religious belief. If we want to find people who hate a certain religion, we can find plenty. If we want to find people who like a certain religion or form of spirituality, there will be plenty. In the end who is right and wrong? Which religion is right or wrong. All or some or none? Therefore it is more logical to respect all religions, all faiths and all forms of spirituality. In history many have exploited religion for selfish purposes and many have not. As long as I have not, that is all that matters. I cannot and will not speak for others of my faith and what their motive is, but I know my motive. No one and no leader and no religious leader should ever hurt, segregate or speak against another religion. Time for peace. Time for harmony. Time for respect. Time to look beyond mine/your religion and be kind. Be kind to everyone. Never put anyone down because of their religion.
Humbly,
Tsem Rinpoche.
P.S. I wish very much the people from His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s views/side and people from the side of Dorje Shugden practitioners meet very soon. May they meet in peace, with kindness in the hearts and good motivation to solve this issue once and for all. We have to solve this through peaceful dialogue. I never protested against His Holiness Dalai Lama nor spoke harshly against his views ever. I have always respected his and everyone’s views. We all have to live on this earth together. You will not accept my way of spirituality and I will not accept your’s and that is okay. But we must respect each other’s spiritual faith and NEVER criticize or advise against it. We must respect also what we don’t accept. Everyone has their way. Advising against another’s religion/faith/spirituality creates so much disharmony. No more disharmony. It’s been 19 years since the ban against Dorje Shugden started. It must end please. We have so many things to argue about in this world, let’s make one less conflict. I wish this conflict to end peacefully soon. I wish His Holiness the Dalai Lama and supporters can open channels of communication and solve this issue soon. Peaceful dialogue please and soon. Thank you.
ON BLOG CHAT:
Tsem Rinpoche, I think that you are a wonderfully wise and awesome teacher, and I respect your voice on the issues of Dorje Shugden. But I have several issues with your argument against the Dalai Lama’s voice. I have not found any real stance given by the Dalai Lama as to WHY he has made the ban (either in your posts or in most posts on the internet). Even more disturbingly, after exploring a little bit more I have found that Dorje Shugden has relations with the Communist Party of China and this makes it very controversial. The Communist Party wishes to destroy the Dalai Lama and even replace him with their own spiritual leader–in other words there is a Conflict of Interest. While I do believe people should have the right to believe in what they wish, it seems to me that Dorje Shugden practitioners are being supported by Communist members of China with a HIDDEN AGENDA. I believe this is why the Dalai Lama has ousted this sect.
Please correct me if I am wrong. I only want some clarity, because it really doesn’t make sense if the Dalai Lama issued this ban without any regards. There has to be a reason, and if Dorje Shugden practitioners are being supported by Communist China, then it is obvious that Dorje Shugden intentions are not good for the community of Tibetan Buddhism.
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Hi John,
You didn’t leave any contact details so I’m replying to you here, hopefully you see my response! Thank you for writing on the blog chat and for giving us the opportunity to answer your questions. In answer to your multiple-fold query, Dorje Shugden is a 400-year old practice which has been relied upon by countless masters over the last four centuries. We are talking about masters who are considered fully omniscient Buddhas, whose teachings are relied upon to lead people to enlightenment. It’s not possible that 400 years of lamas were mistaken about Shugden.
The reliance of Dorje Shugden has been ongoing long before the modern Chinese state existed, and long before the political troubles of the 1950s. So it would be inaccurate for anyone to say that Shugden practice is directly related to any modern day Tibetan political problems when the deity was propitiated for hundreds of years without issue.
Also, I was happy to read you agree there is a ban because that indicates that you also believe that it was the Tibetan leadership who implemented a ban against Shugden in 1996 🙂
It also means that if there was no ban, then there’d be nothing for the Chinese authorities to allegedly support. That is, if they were supporting anything at all – no proof (for example receipts, bank statements, etc) has ever been produced for any of the allegations made about Shugden practitioners receiving financial support from the Chinese leadership.
The solution to the problem is very simple – lift the ban and there will be nothing for the Chinese leadership to allegedly exploit or manipulate.
Also, as Justin Whitaker wrote in his analysis of the Reuters report, there’s no one single Shugden lama or organisation that represents all practitioners. So just because a few Shugden people MAY receive support from the Chinese leadership, this is their personal decision which does not represent or reflect a choice made by all Shugden practitioners. Purely logically speaking, it would be unfeasible for the Chinese leadership to financially support four million Shugden practitioners…logistically, where would they even channel the money to, individual bank accounts? It really does not make sense 🙂
Finally, I am sorry to hear that you are in confusion. This is exactly what the ban does to people, it confuses them. It confuses the people who were forced to choose between their teachers and practice and being ostracised. It confuses the people who were forced to choose between their families and their practice. It confuses people who are forced to choose between friends.
Whether or not the practice is supported by any government is irrelevant of the fact people should be given the choice to rely on any deity they like. Like you say, our faith should be our personal choice and not one enforced by the state. BUT this right to religious freedom should be universally applicable because once we involve our opinions in the matter of someone else’s rights, we stop allowing them to have free and ultimate control over their choice. It no longer becomes their full right to decide and therefore, it is no longer religious freedom.
Now as for why His Holiness implemented the ban on Dorje Shugden, we believe it was to spread Dorje Shugden’s name everywhere. The previous Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche (one of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s tutors) wrote that in the future, Dorje Shugden and high lamas will manifest disagreement. During such a time, we should not lose faith in either. That is why Tsem Rinpoche always advises us never to disparage or criticise His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
In today’s day and age, controversy sells and there are fewer things more controversial than people saying “the Dalai Lama, the embodiment of compassion, banned a religious practice”. If you think about it, before 1996, the name and practice of Dorje Shugden was confined to the Tibetan settlements. Since 1996 however, the issue has been endlessly covered because it is controversial and as a result, many people outside of the Tibetan settlements have come to know about this emanation of Manjushri.
Then there are the institutions that continue to propitiate Dorje Shugden which have been established, free from any political interferences (Tibetan or otherwise). Since church and state should be kept separate, there is an opportunity to return to that in these institutions which do not have to abide by the decisions made by the Tibetan leadership.
Finally, I have to clarify one more thing – there is no such thing as “a Shugden sect”. Dorje Shugden is relied upon as part of the Gelug tradition, and not as a separate and individualistic practice. He has been a part of the Gelug school just as much as Kalarupa or Mahakala or Palden Lhamo practice is 🙂 in fact, all Tibetan Buddhist traditions have evidence of relying on Dorje Shugden as an enlightened Protector. So to say this is a sect, as though it is separate from mainstream Gelug teachings, would not be accurate. Shugden lamas are in actuality Gelug lamas who teach Gelug teachings…they just happen to propitiate Shugden too.
Hope my answers went some way to answering your questions. You may also like to read this analysis which you may find helpful 🙂 https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=83332
If you’ve any further questions, you’re very welcome to contact me at elena.khong@kechara.com
Thank you!
His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama composed this prayer to Dorje Shugden. His Holiness has full clairvoyance and knowledge of the nature of the deity he composed the prayer to when he was younger and when he is older as it is the same mind stream. So not logical His Holiness can make a mistake? If he can make mistakes about deities, then the mistakes cannot be limited to time span: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=61029
Reuters Desperate Attempt to Repair the Dalai Lama’s Image
A Response to Reuters Article – “Special Report: China co-opts Buddhist sect in drive to discredit Dalai Lama” by Sonam Rinchen
The recent article written by David Lague published in Reuters, “Special Report: China co-opts Buddhist sect in drive to discredit Dalai Lama” was disappointing and disheartening. When I was contacted by Mr. Lague to provide an interview and insight into the plight of Shugden followers in Tibet and around the world, I was elated. I thought a respected news outlet would provide the world with an unbiased report on the abuses and discrimination being perpetrated on Shugden followers throughout Tibetan communities. Sadly that is not what David Lague provided.
Mr. Lague’s supposed unbiased investigation is immediately shown to be biased early in the article by his dim view of the Shugden followers’ plight. He has described the protesters, including myself, in the third paragraph of his “Special Report” merely as “noisy” and causing a “cacophony”. He goes on to say that we, the protesters, follow the Dalai Lama, using abusive, harsh and insulting language in our protests against him. This negative tone shines an unwelcome light on all Shugden followers. It is an attempt to discredit our cause and repair the Dalai Lama’s tarnishing public image. If Mr. Lague had listened to us and had spoken with us, he would have discovered that we are a peaceful group, wanting only to be heard. Many attempts to begin a peaceful dialogue with the Dalai Lama have been ignored by the Dalai Lama and his organization. Therefore, we have no alternative but to peacefully protest to get our message heard.
Mr. Lague continues his article, using the opinion of Lama Tseta as the basis for the majority of his claims. Lama Tseta is a known schemer and opportunist in the Tibetan community who holds little creditability among Shugden followers. He is not a major influencer in the Shugden community and I, as Mr. Lague points out, one of “the most visible” protesters, have never met Lama Tseta. It is known that Lama Tseta has provided US Visas to Tibetan immigrants, charging them thousands of dollars. Mr. Lague points out that Lama Tseta has travelled to China many times, supposedly helping the Shugden cause. This is not true. His travels to China are purely self-motivated, obtaining Visas for his human trafficking of Tibetan immigrants. Funding for Lama Tseta’s travels and living expenses may be worth investigating, as he has never been gainfully employed. A look into the US Consulate in Chengdu may show where Lama Tseta gets his financial support. I have never received any funds from the Chinese government or any government to support my travel to these peaceful demonstrations.
The article goes on to discuss the recent accusations that the Shugden followers are threat to the Dalai Lama. The idea that Shugden followers are a “serious potential threat to the Dalai Lama’s well-being” is ridiculous. None of the demonstrations I have been involved with have ever become violent nor have any of the protesters ever threatened the Dalai Lama’s life. Without the Dalai Lama’s help, our struggle will never be resolved. The Shugden followers are merely trying to get their message out, hoping that the discrimination and ostracizing being experienced by them in the Tibetan communities will cause a global outcry for relief.
In his article, David Lague quoted Richard Gere regarding the situation. Before theDalai Lama’s segregation, I worked for Richard Gere building a stone wall and lived at his house for over a month. He is a sincere devotee of the Dalai Lama and his point of view is expected. I respect his comments.
Shugden followers have never been an organized sect or community, with leadership and funding sources. There are many groups, such as ITScommunity.org, that have been organized in an attempt to get the truth told about the treatment of Shugden followers by the Dalai Lama and his supporters. These groups are not a cohesive organization. They only have similar goals. Groups such as International Shugden Community (ISC) are made up of volunteers. Many are Westerners who are shocked by the Dalai Lama’s behavior towards their Dharma brothers and sisters. Being from the West, many of these volunteers have never experienced such discrimination and are accustomed to a non-discriminatory religious environment. David Lague states that the “majority of the rank-and-file protesters are Westerners who follow NKT”. I have never been associated with NKT nor have I ever met Kelsang Gyatso, the leader of NKT. The same goes for Lama Gangchen. He has no official role in the Shugden community; he is simply a Shugden follower. Though I cannot speak for all of these organizations, International Tibetan Shugden Community (ITSC) is a self-funded, non-profit group, joining demonstrations throughout the world, alongside other organizations with similar goals. The ITSC is merely a group of Buddhists who would like the right to practice religion freely without persecution.
When interviewed by Mr. Lague, I sent him scores of documents and letters written to various world leaders and organizations pleading for assistance. These requests have been written personally by me and also from ITSC. I provided him with evidence of the discrimination and violence against Shugden followers. The ITSC, along with other organizations, have four main requests of the Dalai Lama. These four points have been sent to the Dalai Lama numerous times, most recently on International Human Rights Day. I also provided Mr. Lague with the four points given to the Dalai Lama. Mr. Lague did not include these points anywhere in his article. He did not explain the reasons behind the protesting. He only accused Shugden followers of being involved in a conspiracy with the Chinese government to overthrow the Dalai Lama, being “noisy” and meaningless.
Shugden followers request only the following from the Dalai Lama:
1. To allow anyone who wishes to practice Dorje Shugden the freedom to do so;
2. To stop completely the discrimination against Shugden practitioners;
3. To allow all Shugden monks and nuns who have been expelled to return to their monasteries and nunneries; and to receive the same material and spiritual rights as non Shugden practitioners;
4. To write to Tibetan communities throughout the world that they should apply practically the above three points.
The Dalai Lama has a charming public persona and, as a Nobel Laureate, is a supposed ambassador of peace throughout the world as well as the leader of the Buddhist community. However, there is no peace in his own Tibetan community. The Dalai Lama causes the suffering endured by many Tibetans. He has no peace in his own family. Before his death, the Dalai Lama’s older brother, Thubten Jigme Norbu, stated that there was no Tibetan Government and that Tibet was owned by three families, his being the majority owner. The Dalai Lama did not attend the Norbu’s funeral in 2008. Another brother has written a book accusing a relative of stealing from the old Tibetan gold reserve. The only Buddhist country that would allow the Dalai Lama to visit was Japan. The other Buddhist countries did not welcome him. He has manipulated the West with his charm and pleasing demeanor, gaining popularity and sympathy from many countries. But now Westerners are beginning to see through this public image. World leaders, including the British and Norwegian Prime Ministers, have chosen not to meet with the Dalai Lama. The Western leaders are beginning to see that the Dalai Lama is a hypocrite and religious dictator.
Reuter’s, and possible David Lague’s, hatred towards China has blinded them, unable to see the truth or even to be interested in seeking the truth.
Prior to the article being published, I provided to Mr. Lague the opportunity to interview other Shugden followers, including Lobsang Dorje. He did not follow through with these contacts. Since the article was published, I have attempted to contact Mt. Lague to express my disappointment. He has not returned my calls.
I think the article should have been titled “Special Report: Dalai Lama co-opts David Lague and Reuters in drive to discredit Tibetan Buddhists seeking religious freedom”
Dear Rinpoche
Apologies on the glitches of the last 2 replies.
After reading the latest articles relating to Reuters’s write up on “China co-opt a Buddhist sect in global effort to smear the Dalai Lama”. These are my observations :-
1) Reuters being such a “branded” name in the media industry seemed to have lost its edge. As pointed out by Andrew Korybko and Justin Whitaker, many of the statements made in the report were shallow, unsubstantiated and if there were so called evidence it was from unreliable/tainted persons. Who is Lama Tseta ? Why are his words credible ?
I have also noticed that Reuters have an inclination towards writing high profile “gossips” for e.g “Rising son” – story on the man who married Russian President’s daughter and obtaining a big loan to make him rich etc etc. Plus other articles which seemed to milk on juicy gossips to earn readership. Maybe people are so degenerated now that they prefer to read these sort of stories. No wonder Reuters tried to make China vs Dalai Lama another gossip sensation. But oops it back fired on them !! KARMA !!
2) It is interesting that ex pro Dalai Lama followers like Justin take a more neutral stand. It’s unhealthy when people adopt extreme views – reinforcing our deluded minds when we do that.
3) I agree with Rinpoche that Andrew Korybko wrote a very good summary of the DS issue; as Rinpoche said his stand was 100% objective. The topic interests him and made him go into intensive studies of it. But because he was not pro or anti, there were no sides to take as per se. He looked from an entirely different perspective. Interesting !
I began to notice that human beings have this great tendency to group people into categories. Bias approach. Ignorant approach. If you are Muslims (in certain countries), ISIS comes to mind. If you are refugees, terrorists comes to mind. If you are Dalai Lama students you are the good guys. If you are DS practitioners you are the cult/spirit worshippers; such narrow and bias thinking. Self created “correct views” or “wrong views” and we become fixated on them. Sigh !!
However, i think it’s great this controversial article cropped up. It created the opportunity to bring forth more neutral and unbiased views of DS. Let’s pray that these views will spread to many to plant a positive seed. After all the truth is DORJE SHUGDEN DOESN’T HARM. Learning and practicing DS can only make us better people.
Thank you Rinpoche for always holding steadfast to Rinpoche’s practice irrespective of how much “XXX” Rinpoche receives from the anti DS groups. Because of Rinpoche’s virtues and blessings ignorant people like me get a chance to learn the Dharma and be protected by DS. With folded hands grace
Dear Rinpoche
Hope Rinpoche is well
Dear Rinpoche
Hope Rinpoche is well
So many beautiful teaching videos here on the various aspects of Dorje Shugden’s practice. Kecharians really did a terrific job on this. So much needed information: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=66785
Tsem Rinpoche speaks up on Dorje Shugden. The explanation is clear, logical and very humble. Everyone should take the time to listen carefully: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jxC6uKHM3dY
Its indeed a good news that China is embracing and encouraging religious freedom, to a communist country, this a a big leap and advancement. Proper steps should be taken by the public and media to support this positive moves. No one should put down or discriminate another religion, and make their’s the supreme.
Reuter’s report on Dorje Shugden is a superficial one, it does not gives in-depth studies and understanding of the history, no proper credible account of various testimony, and no evidence of the said funding.
Reuters should continue the research and reports on this issues for the truth and justice.
So much of unwanted and unnecessary problems, hatred, anger, blames, and unhappiness both amongst reputed international countries like China, India and Tibet, as well as representations of other political governmental institutions, the foreign press, Reuter and last but not least, H.H The Dalai Lama, holder of the ruler’s seal of Dorje Shugden’s ban. Even China, in all respect , has soften down and responded by saying that “all citizens have the freedom of belief in China, and that all religions and sects receive equal respect and protection.” It has been confirmed that the ban has already been held for two decades since its first implementation in 1996. Since then, inspite of all appeals made no actions were said to have been made in response, nor any indication of same were made known to the Tibetan community and to other nationalities the World over, who were very anxiously awaiting for the ban to be repealed to restart off their practices. The longer the ban stays on, it will only risk allienating people who may be able to come together to bridge the divide, and end this unwarranted conflict once and for all. As said by our Rinpoche, “The ban started from the Tibetan Leadership. If they want harmony, then it’s time for all sides to sit down and talk, and discuss on how to dismantle this Ban immediately”. This seems the most logical end and best peaceful solution of all for settlement. Om Benza Wiki Bitana Zoha.
Trust Rinpoche to see this incident differently, and to see how it could result in something positive. When I first heard the news, I was a little worried about the impact it would have. I wasn’t worried about the information – I knew it was going to be untrue, as are all anti-Shugden allegations – but we are talking about Reuters. It’s a well-respected news agency and syndicate responsible for transmitting news to media agencies all over the world, so how far would these lies spread?
I have to say, not very far because it would appear anti-Shugden people are developing a more moderate view, and Reuters made the error of using the testimony of someone like Lama Tseta.
If Lama Tseta was such a prominent member of the anti-Shugden movement, how come no one has heard of him prior to his testimony? We have heard of Geshe Konchok Gyaltsen, Geshe Jangchup Gyaltsen, Geshe Chime Tsering, Geshe Lobsang Sopa, Kundeling Rinpoche, etc. but never Lama Tseta. Who was he prominent to?
The more missteps the media makes by publicising anti-Shugden views without evidence, the worse it will make Dharamsala look. If Dharamsala doesn’t have evidence for how Shugden is bad, but they keep insisting over and over again that it is bad, sooner or later people are going to ask, “Hang on. You keep saying they’re bad. But where’s the proof?”
Would the Tibetan leadership rather backtrack on the ban now, or wait until their own supporters turn on them and start asking them why they implemented the ban 19 years ago when there was no evidence? Which option would be less embarrassing, voluntarily lifting the ban or being pressured into it? It would be to Dharamsala and the Tibetan leadership’s benefit to end this ban because as it is, the hole they’ve dug for themselves is so deep, it’s getting harder and harder to climb and excuse their way out of it.
It looks like Reuters wanted so badly to portray China in a negative light that it was prepared to take the word of Lama Tseta for it. And yet if Lama Tseta’s word is to be believed, it incriminates His Holiness in more ways than one.
For instance, Lama Tseta claimed, “It’s not about Shugden; it’s about politics”. According to the Dalai Lama, Dorje Shugden is a malevolent spirit and hence be advised against the practice. In other words, it IS about Shugden. And yet Lama Tseta said it’s not. So who are we to believe?
If we believe the Dalai Lama, then Lama Tseta is wrong and much of what he claims has to be called into question. If what Lama Tseta said is true, that it is about politics, then His Holiness the Dalai Lama misled the public by maligning this deity. Essentially, Lama Tseta is saying that His Holiness the Dalai Lama politcised a religious practice and many innocent Buddhist suffered unnecessarily for it.
I am a Dorje Shugden practitioner with no interest in the politics between China and His Holiness the Dalai Lama. And yet this article portrays me negatively and drags me into an unwholesome conflict and so I regard Reuter’s objective in publishing this article as dubious at best.
I think in order to keep the respect of its readers, Reuters and its main source Lama Tseta should just publish proof of their claims. In the meantime if Reuters meant to vilify China by this piece and drag an entire international community of Dorje Shugden practitioners along the way, then it has just created yet another fault line in the relationship between China and the Dalai Lama.
This is the power of information technology that is used for the benefit of society. Information that is fair, researched and honest can create understanding, create acceptance and harmony as well as end aggression arising from fear of the unknown.
With this exposure, not only will people get a more comprehensive angle to the Dorje Shugden story, media giants like Reuters will also behave more responsibly when disseminating information and news to the public.
May more truth arise from the sincere inquisitive mind of the public.
As far as a Buddhist practitioner is concern, I am utterly surprised and disgusted by the ban on Dorje Shugden by the Tibetan Exile administration (CTA). No matter which way I look at it, there is a huge degree of political play in imposing the ban (in the first place) and the recent Reuter’s accusation of Chinese link with the worship of Dorje Shugden (as a Dharma protector based on Tibetan Buddhism tradition) to smear HHDL. Using Dorje Shugden and the welfare of the practitioners as pawn to launch attack towards China now appeared to be the tactic by Tibetan Exile leadership to gain worldwide sympathy and lobby for independence. And by Reuter pointing out that Chinese government co-opt with a religious sect to smear HHDL using words of a discredited lama tainted Reuter’s good name in being an impartial reporting agency in this matter.
In general, it is not acceptable for any government to interfere and ban any particular religion practice in this time and age. The key take away from the Reuter’s report is the Tibetan leadership prohibits the practice of a certain religion; while in response to Reuter’s report, the Chinese government support freedom in religious practice. This tells the world the double standard of the Tibetan leadership. I sincerely wish that the Tibetan leadership can lift the ban and walk the talk.
Thank You Rinpoche for sharing this article that encourages us to use our analytic ability to understand the issue.
Humbly, bowing down,
Stella Cheang
Why is Dorje Shugden a demon but cannot be conquered by the powerful HHDL himself. Instead of using compassion to subdue the demon like other great Buddhist masters did in the past, HHDL chose to ban the practice hence created so much of confusion and suffering among the Tibetan.
I thank Mr Whitaker for pointing out what Reuters commented simply according to what Lama Tseta said was actually without any solid edvidence. How can such a big issues involved Beijing and Daramsara being published through Reuters without any filter. This is so irrisponsible.
I also thank Mr. Korybko to speak up of what he analyzed this issue through Radio Sputnik on how the whole situation from history and logical view.
I am glad that Beijing finally responded to clear the doubts and confusion that has been going on for a while by declairing China’s constitution stipulates that citizens have freedom of belief.
So now what is HHDL intention to ban Dorje Shugden? The intention has obviously changed from belief issues to political issues. Or it was political issue from the beginning? Even so, I still think it is illogical by using His citizens against China. How can a ban that created by HHDL, which is separating and destroying the nation, bring Tibet back? As a most respected and popular monk in the world, you chose to create suffering, doubts, confusion and lots of anger among Buddhists. Don’t you suppose to promote world peace?
I totally agreed with u….
The Chinese government has already instructed its agencies not to cause disunity and conflict by taking either side. If only the Tibetan administration had done the same! But since they are still utterly theocratic, there is no chance. The contradiction, between the Dalai Lama’s popular image as a religious super-liberal and the medieval superstitions under which the Tibetan community in India are actually encouraged to live, is tragicomic.
This is really interesting news reporting…
First where is all that evidence, documents to prove your investigation Reuters??? Why don’t you publish and show it to us if it was really true and you’ve seen it? This makes this news reporting questionable. And these are very very big allegations you are making when you say a certain government i.e. China is paying to cause segregation and disunity. Even if it was true, you will still need to show evidence. And for a huge country like China, to wrongly accuse can cause great repercussion to a lot of things for UK, no? It would be best to get your facts right and show evidences. Otherwise I am sorry this news will drag Reuters into the mud, unfortunately.
How can anyone believe what this Lama Tseta said is true? Just because he says so? If he really was afraid for his life… why did he not go anonymous and instead allowed his picture to be blasted out so big on Reuters report? Isn’t he afraid he will be targeted as he claimed? This already tells us it’s one huge lie, besides the fact that most Tibetans already know he is not worth trusting. Only those unfamiliar with Tibetans would be gullible enough to believe him.
How come Reuters (if unbiased in this reporting) did not go further to ASK… WHEN AND WHY DID THIS CONFLICT HAPPENED? HOW DID IT HAPPENED? BECAUSE it sure was NOT the Shugden practitioners who STARTED BANNING their own practice and KICKING MONKS out of their own monastery. IT sure wasn’t the Shugden practitioners who started putting up signs to not allow Shugden people enter schools, hospitals, shops or attend any public talk by the Dalai Lama. How on did this all started? That is the question they ought to be asking instead of publishing something that has very little weight, almost like a gossip column of he said she said.
I really hope that Reuters would do a decent investigation and provide a more concrete story on the Shugden controversy. Provide all the evidences to back up its claims or perhaps investigate further as to “WHY is there even a conflict amongst Tibetans’ in exile?” Who started it and why?
If we say China is using Dorje Shugden issue to smear Dalai Lama… then why did the Dalai Lama give China something to use against Him in the first place? If there was no ban, there would be no issue. Hence, why doesn’t Dalai Lama just allow religious freedom for his own people and ask all Tibetans to respect and be harmonious amongst each other? This would serve a better purpose in bring peace to those oppressed and surpressed…. and surprise surprise, it’s not necessary from the China though the world is often inclined to point the finger at. May TRUTH prevails and the ban on Dorje Shugden and the suffering of millions of practitioners be release soon.
IF THERE IS NO BAN, NO DISCRIMINATION & NO ABUSE ON SHUGDEN PRACTITIONERS THEN THIS NEWS WOULD SEIZE TO EXIST AND SO WHAT IS ALL THIS ABOUT?
His Holiness in this video is very strong about expelling monks from the monasteries and enforcing that Dorje Shugden practitioners must be removed. He also rejoices in this action when it happens. This video was recorded in Drepung I was told. It hurt so much to watch this as I love His Holiness: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BS6hq5HJNik
It’s something to rejoice from the statement by China direct response to Reuters acticle. Not for argurement sake but the offcial and open minded by China to promote and protect religions freedom in their country. Giving the freedom of belief and religious tolerence between different religious and sects is what a succesful country should practice to unite the country to move forward in harmony.
One of the thing I respect China from the reponse is they even study the background of Dorje Shugden. This shows the government does care and willing to know more about their people choices.
I really appreciate Whiteaker’s analysis pointing out the lack of evidence by Reuters which will give a different view & conclusion to the mass. Same goes to Andrew Korybko which is not a Buddhism giving his point as a non bias individual stated them in a logical manner. This proven how a third party which has no interest in any side view this situation. What in their finding is purely fact with logical view.
Reuters should really get their fact right and publish the truth with logical analysis. Shugden ban issue is no longer a close door matter but as a real human rights and religions freedom issue by the Tibetan leaders.
In religious it’s not about right or wrong but it’s personal choice that individual belief so why don’t just resolve this by lifting the ban and unite everyone as a true leader of a country.
It baffles me why the Dalai Lama enforced the ban on the practice of Dorje Shugden. If it is true that Dorje Shugden is indeed a malevolent spirit as claimed, it would have been easier to snuff him out than to have this ban which brings untold suffering to countless people. After all, Tibetan high lamas including the Dalai Lama, are known for their highly attained meditative powers to subdue spirits. It does not make sense why so many people must suffer just for a spirit.
Why does the CTA (Central Tibetan Admin) go on this religious crusade to persecute Dorje Shugden practitioners, they should be working to better the lives of Tibetans. Why divide Tibetans over such an insignificant issue.
Even China, with its atheist government, is supporting religious freedom, whereby the CTA (who once ruled former Tibet, of which the majority of Tibetans is Buddhists) is against religious freedom. In this case, the practice and worship of Dorje Shugden.
When will Dorje Shugden practitioners receive help from fair minded and compassionate people in the world in this unjust ban on human rights?
The ban’s probable intent is to weaken the scholarly dominance of the Gelugpa tradition and substitute a mixed tradition under the direction of the Dalai Lama. It’s rather similar to Henry VIII’s attack on the Catholic Church and substitution by the Church of England, except that the Gelug tradition (and the Dorje Shugden practice) are not foreign but native Tibetan entities. The Dalai Lama’s power, conversely, has been inflated by association with many foreign powers.
Dear Rinpoche,
Thanks for update us the latest news…
I m new comer to join the group….
We should not use Religion as a political issue….
So sad for the ban…
Thank you for sharing this very informative article.
No matter who make then ban, who play games with the ban. Why got this ban. How the ban start…. all this… already happen.
The pain, the hurt, the problen already create and all this still going add on and add on.
Please please lift the ban in harmony.
Please please stay harmony and talk politely if anyone want to say something.
Because what we do, say or social media, it represent our Guru , practice and ourself level. Please dont create hate. It hurt people.
Please please dont use religions as a point to harm people. All religions teach us world peace , harmony , mind transform and etc.
More and more people around the world, they practice or not practice Dorje Shugden. They work very hard to find information to show everyone. No matter right or wrong, we the obe who read and benefited.