Buddhism is one of the most ancient belief systems and is practiced today by nearly 350 million people around the world.
Bettany Mary Hughes is an English historian, author, and broadcaster, specialising in classical history. Bettany Hughes travelled to the seven wonders of the Buddhist world. Where she documented a unique insight into the seven wonders that explained the long and rich history of Buddhism 2500 years ago . Truly fascinating documentary that’s one should watch. Started off her journey with Bodh Gaya in India, the Bodanath Stupa in Nepal, the Temple of The Tooth in Sri Lanka, Wat Pho Temple in Thailand, Angkor Wat in Cambodia, the Giant Buddha in Hong Kong and the Hsi Lai Temple in the United States. At each location, she meets with Buddhist scholars who explain the different concepts that form the core of Buddhist philosophy, giving insight into the long and rich history of Buddhism. Interesting sharing.
Thank you Rinpoche.

https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/art-architecture/seven-wonders-of-the-buddhist-world.html

H.H. Kyabje Zong Rinpoche (1905-1984 AD) was a highly realized Gelug Lama known as a strong, detached and wrathful lama. He was famous as a sharp analyst and master of philosophical debate, as well as a powerful Tantric practitioner. Disciple of Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche, junior tutor of the 14th Dalai Lama. Famous as a sharp analyst and master of philosophical debate, as well as a powerful Tantric practitioner. Rinpoche traveling tremendously to many monasteries, doing rituals, and giving many initiations, transmissions and commentaries, and instruction in the profound and extensive dharma . As in this blog Kyabje Zong Rinpoche explains on many rare and precious teachings. Thousands of Westerners have received teachings from him, both in the West and in India. HH Kyabje Zong Rinpoche was the Guru of many great masters.
Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/kyabje-zong-rinpoche-explains-on-many-rare-and-precious-teachings-with-translation.html

Religious discrimination remains a significant issue globally, impacting various aspects of life. The Dorje Shugden controversy in Tibetan Buddhism involves accusations of religious discrimination against devotees of the Poweful Dharma Protector Dorje Shugden. Dorje Shugden was a powerful Protector associated with the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. H H the Dalai Lama previously practice Dorje Shugden’s practice but somehow later discouraged the practice, citing concerns about sectarianism ,its perceived role as a spirit. Dorje Shugden’s practitioners have reported feeling ostracized and discriminated against by the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and those supporting the Dalai Lama. The controversy has divided the Tibetan community and has been a source of contention and tension. CTA had breached the rights of every Dorje Shugden practitioners to what they pray . Many families are torn apart by this. Dorje Shugden people had to break away from their monasteries .Religious freedom and human rights are interconnected. Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion regardless of race and faith. Religious freedom is one of the most fundamental of human rights. The discrimination that Dorje Shugden practitioners are experiencing today has similarities to other historic bigotry and prejudices such example was the African American Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s,and the Women’s Suffrage Movement. Racism affects virtually every country in the world. It denies people their full human rights just because of their colour, race, ethnicity, descent or national origin. The most prevalent discrimination that we see today are national origin and race discrimination. May there be peace,unity, harmony and based on compassion, acceptance and universal freedom of religious choice without discrimination or recriminations of any kind.
Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/comparisons-of-the-dorje-shugden-ban-with-historic-persecutions.html

The Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Kerala, India is said to be thousands of years old, built in the Dravidian style, and houses more secrets than most people can ever dream of. That’s interesting. This temple is a legendary secret chamber that has remained unopened for centuries. Legends and local beliefs it is protected by powerful deities and a curse. The door is said to be sealed with a mystical spell, and it is believed that anyone attempting to open it without proper rituals will face grave consequences, having met with mysterious deaths or terrible misfortune. Locals had warns that attempting to open Vault B without proper rituals and respect for the deities could unleash untold calamities and misfortune. Stories abound of previous attempts to open the vault had failed that resulted in terrifying visions and other supernatural occurrences, and tragic fates for those involved. Some believe that the vault contained ancient treasures , wealth and divine relics . Previously temple workers reportedly tried to force open the door, resulting in the terrifying experiences described in legends. It’s not just a place of worship but also a vault of mysteries. Modern attempts using technology have also failed to open the door, as if some force is protecting it. Every attempt to open Vault B has failed. The door remains closed, and no one know of the contents within, whether wealth, divine relics, or something else entirely, are unknown to the world . No one dare to try opening it since at least the 1880s recording to reports. Interesting article .
Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/science-mysteries/the-mysterious-door-of-vault-b-padmanabhaswamy-temple.html

Revisit this interesting truth where not many people knew the actual story behind . With great effort and research finally the story unfolded. In Tibet, Oracles play, an important part in principal roles assisting governmental decision-making and providing intelligence revelation, religion, doctrine, and prophecy. To this day the Tibetan government still believe and rely in Nechung Oracle. When Nechung oracle took trance, it is actually spirit Nyatrul who has causes problems and misprophecies. Nechung is bound by oath to protect the Dharma. Nechung prophecies are unreliable, most probably given by Nyatrul spirit to the Tibetan government. Such as wrong medication given to the 13 th Dalai Lama as prescribed by the Nechung Oracle. Another misprophecies was during the British invasion. If it was really Nechung who took trance of the Oracle, these types of misprophecies would not have happen. As mentioned in the 6th Dalai Lama biography, we cannot trust or rely on Nechung’s prophecies. It was said that Nyatrul not Nechung who created the problems and harm to Dorje Shugden . It must have told HH the Dalai Lama to ban Dorje Shugden .
Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor Jean Ai for this interesting article.

https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/dorje-shugden/the-spirit-nyatrul-magic-mischief-and-misery.html

In Tibetan Buddhism, water offerings, particularly the seven or eight bowls offering, are a common practice used to express gratitude, cultivate merit, and purify the mind. The seven bowls represent essential aspects of offerings and can be offered daily, along with other items like flowers, incense, and lamps. Water offerings are probably the most common offering made in Tibetan Buddhism. Offering any item of value to the three jewels is the antidote to greed and attachment and helps to cultivate generosity. It is a powerful practice that can help us develop positive qualities such as generosity, devotion, and selflessness. By making water offering, we are creating good karma for ourselves and all sentient beings in the future. Great explanations and teachings all about water offerings.
Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/making-water-offerings-to-the-buddhas.html

H.H. Kyabje Pabongka Rinpoche (1878–1941), also known as Dechen Nyingpo Jampa Tenzin Trinlay Gyatso, was one of the great lamas of the twentieth century. was a highly influential teacher in Tibet and a prominent lama in the 20th century. He was the root guru of the present Dalai Lama’s tutors and many other Tibetan lamas who brought the Dharma to the West. His teachings, particularly his book “Liberation in the Palm of Your Hand,” are significant in the Gelugpa tradition until this days.He was the root guru of the present Dalai Lama’s tutors, Kyabje Ling Rinpoche and Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche, and a teacher to many other Gelug lamas who fled Tibet. He had brought the Dharma to the West after 1959. His teachings covered various aspects of the Tibetan Buddhist path, including the seven-point mind training and the stages of the path to enlightenment. Rinpoche’s teachings are so famous that thousands of people would come from far and wide to attend. He was an extraordinary master for the Heruka Body Mandala and the Vajrayogini practice. Wow ……one of the many famous stories been told of how Heruka actually appeared to Pabongka when he visited Cimburi in Tibet and how Heruka image spoke to him. Interesting biography of a great master of all times.
Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/h-h-kyabje-pabongka-rinpoche-1878-1941.html

The practice of Sangha in Buddhism involves building and cultivating a supportive community of practitioners who engage in shared spiritual practice, often focusing on mindfulness and concentration. This community provides mutual support, guidance, and encouragement on the path of self-discovery. The Sangha is not just a gathering of people; it’s a collective energy of mindfulness and compassion that benefits all members. It provides a supportive environment for individuals on their spiritual journey, offering guidance, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. Sharing experiences and insights within the Sangha can accelerate the learning process.
Thank you Thich Nhat Hanh for sharing and explaining all about the insight of sangha. Great sharing .
Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this article by Thich Nhat Hanh.

https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/the-practice-of-sangha.html

Wat Rong Khun better known as the White Temple, is a Buddhist temple in Chiang Rai province, Thailand. The gold symbolizes how people focus on worldly desires and money. The white building represents the idea to make merit and to focus on the mind. It is owned by a succesful Thai businessman who opened it to visitors in 1997. Awesome….This temple stands out through the white colour and use of pieces of glass that sparkle in the sun. The white colour signifies the purity of Buddha while the glass symbolizes Buddha’s wisdom. Located 3 hour drive from Chiang Mai built to honour and pay tribute to sacred Buddhist figures. Over time, temples grew in prominence and is one of the famous temples to visit in Thailand. I have visited years back its simple stunning temple which truly love the design and architecture .
Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/the-white-temple-in-thailand.html

Sak Yant, a traditional Thai tattooing practice, involves sacred geometrical and animal designs. Its often accompanied by Pali phrases, and is believed to offer power, protection, charisma, and other benefits to the wearer. Sak Yant tattoos are deeply rooted in Buddhist and spiritual beliefs, with each design and symbol carrying specific meanings and purported powers. Many designs are believed to provide protection against evil spirits, misfortune, and danger. Sak Yant tattoos are traditionally applied by monks or masters using a needle and ink, and the process is often accompanied by chants and blessings. I personally have not seen one yet . Sound interesting.
Thank you Rinpoche and L Kim for this sharing.

https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/science-mysteries/the-power-of-sak-yant.html

Jojo Struys is a travel and wellness personality, accredited yoga instructor, speaker and author. She visited Bangsar of Kechara outlet for a feature with Star Property. With her visit hopefully more people will get to know more of our Kechara . She had made a video with and Pastor David Lai all about Buddhist Arts. She openly admitted interested in Buddhist art . Buddhist art pieces have given her home a contemporary edge. Art was important to Buddhist religious life. It was not only part of ritual and worship but also served to transmit religious ideas, and artistic styles between cultures. Do agree with her statement ,…..if you want to change your life, change the way you think, because everything begins with you.”
Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this article.

https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/kechara-13-depts/jojo-struys-goes-shopping-at-kechara-paradise.html

n their theoretical model, rudeness has this impact on our ability to think because it engenders negative sadness, anger. Researchers have found that common negative behaviours can spread easily and have significant consequences. The best way to avoid rude people is to meet their acts of rudeness with kindness. Exposure to neurotoxins in society is not new. Children today are raised in an environment that is much different from those days. Nowadays they are exposed to behaviours, profane language, hostilities and stress from which we adults, raised a generation ago. Studies have shown that children exposed to serious psychological trauma during childhood are at risk of suffering increased psychiatric disorders. Interesting read.
Thank you Rinpoche.

https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/rudeness-is-a-neurotoxin.html

Revisit this blog again . Reading comments in this blog Rich people have substantial assets and income, providing a sense of security and freedom from financial worries. Owning high-end cars, designer clothing and everything they want with their money. Rich people often have more time for leisure, hobbies, and travel, allowing them to pursue interests and experiences. They may live in large, luxurious homes and have or apartments, often in desirable locations and having personalized services. The fundamental difference in mindset between the rich and the poor is, the rich have understood a very simple principle money makes money. Rich people see money as an opportunity, while poor people see it as something to be earned. Poor people work hard for their money. It is the heart that makes a man rich. He is rich according to what he is, not according to what he has. Not he who has much is rich, but he who gives much. The primary difference between rich people and poor people is how they handle their wealth. My thought been rich in this world it is not what we take up, but what we give up, that makes us rich.
Thank you for sharing Rinpoche.

https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/rich-people.html

Found this old post …disturbing. Having a name especially a Bar linked to Buddha to be disrespectful towards Buddhism. After much controversy the owner had it removed. The Buddha Bar located in Sabah by a young owner which opened without much thought had many people complaining. Later was forced to have its controversial name changed to ‘Peacock Garden’ and had apologised for the controversial name. As a devout Buddhist, the name ‘Buddha Bar’ which serves alcohol, is disrespectful to the revered Buddha.
Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/buddha-bar.html

Siberia, considered the heartland of shamanism inhabited by many different ethnic groups, and many of its peoples observe shamanistic. Many of the indigenous communities reclaiming their traditional spiritual and healing practices . Interesting. Siberian shamanism is often called Tengerism, involves various rituals, including drumming, chanting, trance states, and offerings to nature spirits and ancestors. This religious practice has deep roots in Siberia and Central Asia in recent years with roots in the Turkic and Mongolic cultures. Many who have been live in a remote part of Russia, have preserved their shamanic traditions due to their isolation. Many customs of Tengrism are still been practiced where they emphasizes a deep respect for nature and its various spirits, including those of the earth, water, and mountains. They do believe in the continued existence of souls and the importance of honouring their ancestors.
Thank you Rinpoche sharing this ancient religion.

https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/interesting-siberia.html