134 Responses to I can speak up now about Shugden

1. 

   Samfoonheei on Aug 3, 2024 at 1:09 pm

   We should respect all religions and just believe in peace, kindness and harmony. Everyone has the right to choose and practise a religion. We should never judge, mistreat or hurt others just because they practice a different religion than ours. The first way we can begin to respect different forms of spirituality is to learn about them. Promoting tolerance and understanding is an important part of our life. Respecting people of other faiths allows us to foster an environment of tolerance and understanding. It helps us recognize that there are diverse perspectives and beliefs in the world. Everyone has the right to choose and practise a religion. The deep frustration felt by the Tibetan people who lack religious freedom to practice how and what they want, is beginning to surface with more and more people speaking up against the behaviour of the Tibetan leadership. Dorje Shugden practitioners face restrictions on freedom of belief, speech, assembly, and cultural identity. Every aspect of Tibetan life is under siege but until recently they could speak out about what they are facing, the more is spoken out, the more others will be aware of the issue. Reading what H E Tsem Rinpoche had said why he had to keep silent about his Protector practice of Shugden until now. Its all about guru devotion and faith in his guru. Tsem Rinpoche had explained clearly the reasons behind it. Well hopefully more and more people understand after reading this blog. Having peaceful dialogue through communication and solve the controversy issue for the sake in the preservation of the Dharma, has to be achieved.
   Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

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2. 

   Samfoonheei on Nov 3, 2019 at 2:09 pm

   In a perfect world, there would be freedom of religion and freedom for all religions to exercise their religion everywhere. We respect others religion so as it could bring different cultures closer together. Respecting and accepting each others religions means one less reason to discriminate others and less conflicts and fights.
   Rinpoche spoke openly about Dorje Shugden practice following his Guru advice has showed us the importance of guru devotion .Nor matter what happened , always have faith and trust in our Guru. Hopefully more Great Lamas and more people will speak up , so that more people will get to know the truth of this Dorje Shugden controversy.
   Thank you Rinpoche for this wonderful sharing.

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3. 

   Gabriele on Apr 15, 2019 at 8:53 am

   I am deeply moved by this article. I just left a message on youtube where Rinpoche gives a great teaching about how to deal with negative spirits. I very much liked his teaching, but then I heard him mention Dorje Shugden and I was alarmed. I then posted a link concerning the Dorje Shugden controversy. I regret it now that I posted it because I am moved by the deep guru devotion of Rinpoche. I shouldn’t have acted so quickly.

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4. 

   Valentina Suhendra on Dec 9, 2018 at 10:53 pm

   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

   
   

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5. 

   Tsem Rinpoche on Nov 27, 2018 at 5:56 am

   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

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

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6. 

   Tsem Rinpoche on Nov 23, 2018 at 11:21 am

   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

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7. 

   Pastor Elena Khong Jean Ai on Nov 8, 2018 at 12:08 pm

   Appliqué thangka of Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen, who is the previous incarnation of Dorje Shugden. The thangka dates possibly to the 19th Century, and it can be found in Erdene Zuu Monastery, considered by many to be the most important and oldest monastery in Mongolia. In the lower portion of the thangka are Yellow Dzambala, Six-Armed Mahakala and Kalarupa. Learn more about Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen’s life here: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/who-is-tulku-drakpa-gyeltsen.html

   

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8. 

   Pastor Adeline Woon on Sep 24, 2018 at 2:44 am

   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

   Reply
9. 

   Pastor Shin Tan on Aug 12, 2018 at 12:46 am

   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

   

   

   

   

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10. 

    Edward Ooi on Aug 10, 2018 at 8:53 am

    For the first time available, Dorje Shugden and his entourage of 32 assistants of his mandala.

    Dorje Shugden is a powerful protector deity who is also an emanation of Manjushri, a wisdom bestowing Buddha. Therefore, he has great ability to help us to progress further on the spiritual path. He does this by helping us to overcome obstacles and problems for the modern individual.

    Due to his enlightened nature, Dorje Shugden is able to manifest 32 deities and within the same abode resides Setrap and Kache Marpo:-

    1. 5 Dorje Shugden families or emanations. They consists of the following:-

    – Dulzin Dorje Shugden, which performs activities to eliminate inner and outer obstacles.
    – Shize, which performs activities to pacify all illnesses and disease.
    – Gyenze, which performs activities to increase all desirable material and spiritual wealth.
    – Wangze, which performs activities to control difficult people and circumstances.
    – Trakze, which performs activities to wrathfully eliminate all insurmountable obstacles and life-threatening situations.

    2. 9 Mothers. They represent protection of the five senses and developing control of the four elements. These are all attributes that signify their ability to assist tantric practitioners with their higher meditations.

    3. 8 Guiding Monks. They represent the Eight Great Bodhisattvas (Avalokitesvara, Manjushri, Vajrapani, Samantabhadra, Maitreya, Kshitigarbha, Akashagarbha, Sarva-nivarana-viskambini) and they bring about the growth of the Dharma, through the Sangha, Dharma practitioners and Dharma establishments.

    4. 10 Youthful & Wrathful Attendants. They represent the ten wrathful attendants to avert inner and outer obstacles. They are beings who are from Mongolia, China, Kashmir, India, Bengali, etc.

    5. Setrap. He is a senior Dharma Protector from India and an emanation of Amitabha Buddha. He had enthroned Dorje Shugden as an authentic Dharma Protector. Therefore, he also resides within the same mandala of Dorje Shugden.

    6. Kache Marpo. He is not an emanation of Dorje Shugden but he is still an enlightened Dharma Protector in his own right. He was originally known as Tsiu Marpo of Samye Monastery. However, he has placed himself under the service of Dorje Shugden as his chief minister, performing many activities in order to protect and benefit practitioners. Therefore, he stands guard at the main entrance of Dorje Shugden’s mandala. He often takes trance of qualified mediums to speak.

    7. Namkar Barzin. He is the reincarnation of an old Mongolian monk and when he passed away in Phari area of Tibet, his spirit was placed as a powerful assistant of Dorje Shugden. He guards and protects buildings and great institutions especially those that benefit others. He rides on a mythical Gyaling animal that resembles a goat but with scales.

    These sacred images are available on *Vajrasecrets. They are made of high quality alloy and are one of a kind. They are based on the lineage of His Holiness Panchen Rinpoche’s monastery, Tashilhunpo in Shigatse, Tibet. In fact, the iconography of these statues are based on detailed photographs taken by H. E. Tsem Rinpoche during a trip to Tashilhunpo’s protector chapel. These are based exactly as the 10th Panchen Lama’s personal collection.

    Dorje Shugden mandala: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=131570

    Dorje Shugden’s benefit and practice: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=62422

    Dorje Shugden’s origins: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=106424

    Dorje Shugden chapel in His Holiness Panchen Rinpoche’s Tashilhunpo Monastery in Tibet: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=68698

    *Stand not included

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

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11. 

    Valentina Suhendra on Jul 25, 2018 at 3:13 am

    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

    

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12. 

    Pastor Adeline Woon on Jul 25, 2018 at 2:03 am

    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

    

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13. 

    Joy Kam on Jul 20, 2018 at 10:23 pm

    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.

    

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14. 

    Samfoonheei on Apr 10, 2018 at 1:41 pm

    Everyone of us has the right to profess , practice one’s religion and to propagate it. Freedom of religion is a basic principle and a fundamental human right. We have to choose right from wrong, has own rights to do what we want to do and even speak or silent. Nor matter what happened , always have faith in our Guru. Time will show us. I am glad now Rinpoche can speak about Protector practice openly following his Guru advice. I am fortunate to have met Rinpoche and through Rinpoche ‘s teaching it have changed my life.
    With folded hands ,thank you Rinpoche for this precious teachings.
    May the ban of Dorje Shugden practice to be lifted soon

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15. 

    Valentina Suhendra on Oct 22, 2017 at 8:15 pm

    Great message every Tibetan especially must read!

    

    

    

    

    

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16. 

    Pastor Niral Patel on Jul 28, 2017 at 10:27 am

    This is a powerful picture of Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen, Kensur Kyabje Lati Rinpoche and the current incarnation of Trijang Rinpoche meeting together in the year 2000 when Trijang Rinpoche was 18. All three lamas are Dorje Shugden practitioners. In fact Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen was the one that first encouraged my practice of Dorje Shugden when I was 16 years old when I joined his beautiful Thubten Dhargye Ling centre in Los Angeles. I lived with Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen for 8 years before proceeding to Gaden Monastery in South India. Later Kyabje Zong Rinpoche came to our Los Angeles centre and granted sogtae (permission ceremony) to practice Dorje Shugden for life as requested by Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen. Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen had tremendous faith in Trijang Rinpoche. Kyabje Lati Rinpoche was innovative, dedicated and very much focused on bringing dharma to many. He had tremendous faith in Dorje Shugden as I had the honour to meet him many times. He would seek advice from Dorje Shugden many times via the oracle of Gaden Monastery. Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen and Kensur Kyabje Lati Rinpoche have since passed away while the current Trijang Rinpoche is a perfect lineage holder and practitioner of Dharma while he keeps Dorje Shugden as his personal protector as he has done so for many lifetimes. This is a powerful and beautiful picture of three great lamas of Buddha’s lineage and also of Gaden Monastery.

    ~Tsem Rinpoche

    

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17. 

    MartinC on Feb 9, 2017 at 1:29 am

    This is such a wonderful change. People who take the time to research and think logically about the Dorje Shugden issue can easily see past the prejudice. I am seeing more and more of this shift away from blind hatred of an ancient and holy practice that has been maligned. Very happy for Suzy.

    Here’s the link to Suzy’s comment: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vl-4lIwxph4&t=11s

    

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18. 

    Pastor Lim Han Nee on Jan 23, 2017 at 8:40 am

    In “I can speak up now”, Tsem Rinpoche shows us very clearly why he had to keep silent about his Protector practice of Shugden until now and why he now can speak up about Shugden practice. We can see how Rinpoche has been guided in all this by his single-minded focus on Guru Devotion. Tsem Rinpoche’s root Guru is Kyabje Zong Rinpoche(His previous incarnation), whom Rinpoche met in LA and served as personal attendant for the six months that Zong Rinpoche was there.

    Guru Devotion is the main and basic tenet of Tibetan Buddhism. Without Guru Devotion and following every instruction of our Root Guru, we cannot progress on our spiritual path nor gain any attainment(This is clearly stated in Ashvagosha’s Fifty Stanzas on Guru Devotion”). In fact, it is the complete surrender of our Ego – the main obstacle in our spiritual advancement – to our root Guru that ensures our real spiritual progress. Broken samaya with our root guru leads to the collapse of any path of practice, because we have not yet developed our inner guru(the inner state of mind of kindness, commitment and clarity)- the mind of bodhicitta and enlightenment.

    Tsem Rinpoche has kept his Shugden practice secret because it is an inner protector practice, which together with yidam practice have to be kept secret in Tantra. But now, his guru tells him he can speak up about it, and so, for the first time, he speaks up, with the main compassionate motive that many may practise Shugden and reap the powerful benefits of this World Peace and Wisdom Protector.

    Rinpoche continues to respect HH Dalai Lama and maintains the practices given him by HH Dalai Lama, such as the profoundly beautiful “Eight Verses of Mind Transformation”. Recently, the Dalai Lama has said that “we can practice Dorje Shugden” https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/dalai-lama-says-we-can-practise-dorje-shugden-finally.html

    Thus, it is to be hoped that there be no further obstruction to the practice of Dorje Shugden.

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19. 

    Jeff Weege on Jan 20, 2017 at 9:25 pm

    Just get on with your business and stop pretending others are restraining your Dorje Shugden brew hahaha.How much more money do you need from the Chinese before the dumb will understand your just duping them?

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    • 

      Mel on Jan 23, 2017 at 1:00 pm

      If you’re not a fan of Dorje Shugden, why even bother coming to this teacher’s blog? I don’t know this Tsem lama well but as I figure it, your lame one-line insult won’t change his mind about the practice. The same accusation has been directed against him time and time again, and he hasn’t given it up so what makes you think some Internet rando with no connection to him will accomplish what many have already previously tried?

      And by the way, your one-liner that’s clearly ill-informed has already been thoroughly debunked so nice try. https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/dorje-shugden/tibetan-leaderships-new-anti-shugden-video.html

      No one here believes you. All you did was create more negative karma for yourself with your need to say something. I’m not sure Lama would be so impressed with your behaviour.

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      • 

        Pastor Lim Han Nee on Jan 23, 2017 at 7:31 pm

        Dear Mel,

        Thank you for coming to the defence of Tsem Rinpoche. Yes, the one-liner insulting attack of Tsem Rinpoche is baseless and comes from someone who is ill-informed.It is merely echoing the same baseless insult levied at Tsem Rinpoche, again and again, by individuals who have not checked out the real facts. Yes, the blogpost at https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/dorje-shugden/tibetan-leaderships-new-anti-shugden-video.html
        has clearly debunked all these unfounded negative remarks about Tsem Rinpoche.

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20. 

    Anne Ong on Jan 16, 2017 at 10:13 pm

    As a student who are sincerely wanting to learn dharma. I think our job is to learn and practice Dharma. Not to talk bad of any High Lamas.From this article, I learned the important of Guru devotion. If we have faiths and devote to a Guru, which is an important element in Vajrayana Buddhism, we should not questions what is our Guru motivation. Thank you RInpoche for emphasising the importance to us on keeping our vows and promises that we make._/\_

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21. 

    paul yap on Jan 16, 2017 at 5:28 pm

    Whatever the CTA reasons is, banning others’ beliefs, having discrimination on one’s faith is wrong. And there they are giving all sorts of “reasons” to justify their sinful acts. High lamas like HHDL for sure has lots of nasty assitant around him. And is funny what if I am a Taoist, Satanist, Hindu, Zen, Christian or pagan, does that mean I am against the Dalai Lama too because I differ from his spiritual tradition? This only shows the bad quality of one who does NOT practice the dharma, and does NOT walk the talk. Its shameful when they called themselves Buddhist.

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22. 

    Konchok Shemphen on Sep 24, 2016 at 7:02 am

    what is there to say? I don’t like the feeling of having to practice and all of the negativity associated with it. Even though it is the only real connection I have with the Dharma that is of any value left to me after many years of abuse I cannot go on and say that it is enough for me just to focus on Dorje Shugden and nothing else. And on the other hand I do not like the idea of just focusing on my own practice and ignoring Shugden alltogether. I guess there is a happy medium somewhere in the middle but I have yet to find it especially when we are forced to make the decision. If the decision is Dorje Shugden or whatever then I would choose Dorje Shugden but then again is that the best thing for me? I don’t know. All I know is what I have been practicing thus far from the protectors given to me by Tsem Tulku through his teachings. There is a part of me that finds great joy in practicing Dorje Shugden and being willing to follow him no matter what but it is obvious that the negative part of it is also difficult to bear. For this reason I am no longer practicing Shugden.

    Reply
    • 

      Konchok Shemphen on Sep 24, 2016 at 10:34 pm

      It turns out that the benefits of the practice outweigh the negativity surrounding the controversy actually and for that reason I still want to.

      Reply
    • 

      Konchok Shemphen on Sep 24, 2016 at 11:36 pm

      but I still will not practice I hope this is okay

      Reply
    • 

      Lama Konchok Shemphen on Sep 27, 2016 at 6:37 pm

      It’s not fair to not practice Shugden even based on just what hater comments I have gotten based on Trijang Rinpoche’s example I should do the same and just go away and practice on my own and ignore them either way. When I swore to the protector I would do whatever he said I made a friend for life just like how Rinpoche says he will befriend you and I will keep practicing but that does not just mean reciting the sadhana. I can recite any Manjushriye mantra and visualize. I still am accumulating mantras so for the reason I also need to practice and can visualize any wrathful form of Manjushriye which would basically mean I have permission to practice Shugden in case any haters were wondering and this is from tantric initiation not some public teaching by Dalai Lama where he says there are some people here higher than him. If that is so then there should be no problem. But I am going to follow Trijang Rinpoche’s example and not use this is an excuse to gather more Shugden followers and tell them to stay away because it is better to leave and go practice by my lonesome if that be the case. So there shouldn’t be any difference between the protector I though I was practicing before because that’s what Rinpoche was supporting and I support him all the way down to today and the protector he still suppors. Even though I ran into some problems along the way I also accept these as the Protector pointing me in the right decision even though I thought if what was best for my career none of this would ever have happened but that is not trusting in the protector. So when it comes to making right decisions the protector cannot be blamed. I am going to keep practicing as if it was the same protector before…and I do hope that people learn from this because I am actually teaching the Dharma in these things. I am talking about how to view the Guru and also to practice his teachings no matter what the outside label seems to be and giving real life examples to follow so I thank you for that. It takes time to learn something new and I would hope that you would bear with me and would appreciate the little bit of information that can come from this as it would be of great benefit to true practioners and people who truly believe in the path of Tibetan Buddhism in particular. If you are honest then eventually the truth will come out. I hope that after a while you will be able to see for yourself what I am talking about and can use it to your advantage as to best understand this very important issue. Thank you very much.

      Reply
    • 

      Lama Konchok Shemphen on Sep 29, 2016 at 9:13 pm

      I guess the way to approach it is to not practice Shugden nor not not practice Shugden. Two bad choices trick. Option c. Plant the seeds. That’s what I’m going to do. Then the situation will work itself out.

      Reply
    • 

      Lama Konchok Shemphen on Oct 3, 2016 at 10:04 pm

      If I’m not going to practice Shugden then I’m not going to follow Geshe Michael Roach either. I realize now that what I was doing all those years ago was complete nonsense

      Reply
23. 

    Tsem Rinpoche on Sep 15, 2016 at 12:18 am

    Trode Khangsar Chapel in Lhasa, Tibet

    Over 400 years ago a great and learned lama Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen was famed in Mongolia, Tibet, Nepal and China for being very saintly and compassionate. He resided in his residence (Zimkhang Gongma Ladrang) in Drepung Monastery. His root guru was H.H. the Omniscient 4th Panchen Lama and his close dharma brother was the 5th Dalai Lama.

    The 5th Dalai Lama and Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen had a very close and dharmic relationship and often went to receive teachings together from the 4th Panchen Lama. They were close in age. They both became very learned and well known. During this time, the Dalai Lama was enthroned as a Dharma King of Tibet. But more people went to see Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen for teachings, initiations and divinations. This made the attendants of the 5th Dalai Lama feel threatened that Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen’s fame might usurp the power of the 5th Dalai Lama. So they had a khata forced down his throat. At that moment, Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen dissolved his psychic winds and generated the wish to be a great guardian of Buddha and Tsongkapa’s teachings. As his consciousness dissolved, he entered ‘bardo’ as a dharma protector of the highest order (jikten depey sungma). Many signs were seen throughout Lhasa at this time and the earth was said to have shaken in Lhasa. This event was already predicted to Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen’s previous incarnation when he was one of the 8 main disciples of Lord Tsongkapa the Supreme Master and he served Tsongkapa directly by building Gaden Monastery.

    When the 5th Dalai Lama heard what his scheming and power-hungry attendants had done, he was very distressed. He was very sorry Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen was murdered and dishonored as he was a great dharma master. The 5th Dalai Lama composed an apology to Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen. In Lhasa, tens of thousands gathered for the cremation of Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen’s holy body. During the cremation, the 5th Dalai Lama’s apology was read out at which flames spontaneously arose from the body of Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen commencing the cremation. From the body, during cremation, a powerful whirlwind of smoke tunneled into the sky for all to see as this was an indication Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen’s consciousness has arisen as the Dharma Protector Dorje Shugden. The Dharma Protector Setrap immediately recognized this new protector Dorje Shugden and ‘enthroned’ him as a powerful Dharma Protector in the realm of the Buddhas. From this, Setrap and Dorje Shugden are closely connected and very close working hand in hand always. After the cremation, the great 5th Dalai Lama built a Dorje Shugden chapel on the spot the cremation took place and named it Trode Khangsar. The 5th Dalai Lama commissioned the statue of Dorje Shugden in this chapel and had monks installed in the chapel to do continuous propitiations to Dorje Shugden. Trode Khangsar Chapel was a commemoration to Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen who was wronged and also a celebration of his consciousness arising as the World Peace Peace Protector Dorje Shugden.

    This Trode Khangsar Chapel still exists now in Lhasa where many make pilgrimages there. It is in good condition and was recently renovated. It is over 400 years old and a testimony to the respect the Great 5th Dalai Lama had to Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen who arose as Dorje Shugden.

    I have visited this holy chapel in Lhasa years back. I’ve never heard of it till I was in Lhasa and by chance, I was told about it which I was happy to visit. I could not find the place but strangely a bunch of pilgrims from Amdo told me they would show me how to get there in Lhasa.

    This short video is a short clip of this holy Trode Khangsar Chapel in Lhasa today commemorating Dorje Shugden, built by the great 5th Dalai Lama. The great 5th Dalai Lama even composed a prayer to Dorje Shugden which is still available today and we can recite to invoke the blessings, protection, and assistance of World Peace Protector Dorje Shugden.

    Tsem Rinpoche

    
    Read more: Trode Khangsar – A 400-year-old Dorje Shugden Chapel in Lhasa
    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/dorje-shugden/trode-khangsar-%E2%80%93-a-400-year-old-dorje-shugden-chapel-in-lhasa.html

    Short video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTybDwTeLAM

    __________________________________

    The 5th Dalai Lama’s Prayer to Dorje Shugden

    HUM
    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

    Reply
24. 

    Sameer on Aug 31, 2016 at 5:04 pm

    Yesterday, I went to newly formed Dorje Shugden Chapel in Kathmandu. I felt nice to be there.

    Reply
    • 

      Pastor Shin on Sep 3, 2016 at 12:18 am

      Kathmandu is a beautiful place and there are many holy sites. I am glad to know you felt nice to be at the Dorje Shugden Chapel in Kathmandu.

      For more information about Dorje Shugden, you can visit: http://www.dorjeshugden.org

      In October 2008, H.E. Tsem Rinpoche led a group of 61 pilgrims to Nepal to visit the holy power places in Kathmandu valley. It was such a memorable and holy experience. Here is the link to the videos and pictures to share with everyone: http://wwwot .tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/kechara-13-depts/nepal-pilgrimage-full-videos.html

      Reply
25. 

    Valentina Suhendra on Mar 8, 2016 at 11:42 pm

    I hope Tibetan leadership will stop contradicting itself and discriminating based on faith, for the benefit of Tibetan people.

    

    

    

    Reply
26. 

    Tsem Rinpoche on Jan 7, 2016 at 5:08 am

    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.

    

    Reply
27. 

    Wan Wai Meng on Jun 2, 2015 at 4:40 am

    Whatever tantric commitments or practices we have should not be revealed for people to see unless it is something our guru have asked us to. Secrecy in terms of what we practice is not because we have something to hide or what we do is illegal but it represents humility and respect for this tradition that has only been passed on from a teacher to a qualified student. Also we should be able to agree to disagree, what is right for you may not be right for me.

    Reply
28. 

    mahakala on Apr 14, 2015 at 2:30 pm

    Namo Manjusriye! OM A RA PA CHA NA DHI HUM!

    I also have high empowerment from both HH Kyabje Zong Rinpoche ( Cittamani Tara ) and HH the Dalai Lama ( Vajra Master Kalacakra and Eightfold Padmasambhava ). And a book on Chod teachings by HH Kyabje Zong Rinpoche. In this book he says that some of his relatives are Nyingma and there’s nothing to do about that, that’s just how life is.

    As a guru I have not created any conflict but worked long and hard to build Buddhist community on several continents. To do that I need Padmasambhava and the Dalai Lama, and I need to minimize unnecessary friction.

    If someone does not actively attack Padmasambhava or obstruct the teaching work of the Dalai Lama or do anything else really destructive then I have no issue with them. Such a person is not my opponent and they can do whatever they want, including lots of Shugden practice day and night.

    From my side, all this controversy is very simple: First, Shugden is basically a Gelugpa practice, and the Shugden controversy has brought about a definite and irreversible split in the Gelugpa community. I wish this were not so, but it is not my public or private issue since I am Nonsectarian / Rimay, and not specifically Gelugpa.

    Second, I have all the protectors for the Nyingma, Sakya, and Kagyu, including big Yamantaka stuff. So, no particular need for Shugden. Third, several of my key teachers have repeatedly said to not do Shugden. I certainly lose nothing by going with the protectors specific to Cakrasamvara, Dzogchen, Kalacakra, Sakya lineage or whatever. And I have the big Gelugpa Vajrapani-Hayagriva-Garuda too.

    Fourth, it would be better by far to see the pro-Shugden and anti-Shugden people really ignore each other. Instead, we all see ever-increasing tension and struggle. I’ve read up on all that. The public conflict works great for the Communist Chinese, and even the Muslims ( al-Jazeera ) have picked up on this.

    And who suffers from all this? Mainly the Gelugpa. Where I live the Sakya, Nyingma, and Kagyu are very strong, but the Gelugpa are very weak. The Shugden practice communities will be around ten years from now, but the Dalai Lama supporters and practitioners will increase far more. I would lose no sleep if the trends were reversed.

    Fifth, I DO lose a lot of sleep over Islam and the Islamic State, and the major risks to Europe and South Asia. If your protector Dorje Shugden had real power to address this critical issue, then that would be just fine by me! OTHERWISE, the overarching and DIRE problem we ALL face requires other measures and other protector practices.

    It’s time to get real. I have. I stand for freedom and for the Mahayana. Long live the Mahayana!

    Sincerely, mahakala

    Reply
29. 

    Josh Akers on Feb 26, 2015 at 2:47 am

    I was already thinking about how many, many practitioners have their secret yidam and their secret mala and secret ritual items. So Tsem Rinpoche ‘hiding’ his practice never really seemed offensive to me.

    I think also Rinpoche would have lost many followers who had been misinformed about what Shugden is, if he had been open from the start. I might not have become a follower. There is a possibility that before I created a strong connection to weather the storm, I would have walked away before I got to know Rinpoche, because of the negative stigma of Shugden. I am glad he did what he did because I might not still be here being the best Tsem Rinpoche Cheerleader I can be!

    Reply
30. 

    Marta on Feb 17, 2015 at 5:01 am

    Dear Rinpoche,

    I will follow HH Dalai Lama’s advice on this practice.
    However, I wanted to tell you that I appreciate this post and all your work. I’ve enjoyed many of your teachings and many have helped me become a better person.
    I think this post belongs to one of them. I now feel closer in my heart to those who have chosen to practice this while genuinely working to be good Dharma practitioners.

    Although I may have little understanding of the teachings,
    it seems to me that HH Dalai Lama advises not to practice,
    but does not prevent anyone from practicing. That is our choice and our freedom and I respect that, probably more so than before. Best of fortune and happiness in your Dharma practice.

    Take care,
    /\

    Reply
31. 

    tsemtulku on Feb 16, 2015 at 4:56 pm

    INTERESTING DEVELOPEMENT:

    We have been informed by our friends in Dharamsala that the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA; the de facto head of Tibetans in Exile in India) that they have seen the vulgarities said in the name of being on the Dalai Lama’s defense. Many who can read English in Dharamsala have been horrified that their campaign against Shugden is leading to such vulgarities and attacks on Shugden followers personal lives. CTA had hoped to intimidate Shugden people to give up through fear and violence in the past, but it has worked against them as they represent Dalai Lama a Nobel peace prize winner. People are asking why Dalai Lama does not speak up against the hatred towards Shugden people? CTA in the past have kept quiet about the attacks on Shugden people both physical and verbal but now IT’S DIRECTLY BEING CONNECTED TO THEM which is bad PR. The more Dalai Lama supporters hurl abuses on line and it’s recorded, the more it will work against CTA.

    The CTA visit this blog often to keep a watch. They are embarrassed by people who write such negatives and vulgarities now and engage in name-calling in the name of Buddhism and the Dalai Lama. It reflects terribly on them. They have been getting more negative response from people around the world and more queries. The press has been picking up on these types of verbal abuses hurled at Shugden people and find it justified and alerted to the fact something is seriously wrong. They are starting to question the CTA more which is embarrassing.

    We will keep posting these vulgarities hurled at Shugden people online. This is what Shugden people have to tolerate daily. But you will see NO SUCH COMMENTS from Shugden people. I have friends who informed me they will also send this article’s link to press around the world and proper authorities to keep them alert. As violent vulgarities can escalate into violence against innocent Shugden practitioners.

    You see the bottom line is all this name hurling and violent words can stop overnight if His Holiness Dalai Lama speaks up to stop it. Dalai Lama should send people to engage in dialogue to settle this matter once and for all. It would benefit everyone all around. This ban and advice against peaceful Shugden practitioners was started by Tibetan leadership. They should do something to stop it as they are responsible for every person they affect with this ban. The Tibetan leadership is responsible for every harm perpetrated or planned against Shugden practitioners both verbal, psychological and physical.

    Do see the pictures here of the abuse but be ready for how unpleasant it could be: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=58841

    Reply
    • 

      Robert Anderson on Feb 17, 2015 at 1:00 am

      People let their inner pig, chicken, and snake get out of control sometimes. I too called D.S. a low level woodland spirit on this very page out of ignorance (shame on me). All wrong doing starts from the ignorance. Hate is the opposite of Dharma. Dalai Lama says Trijang Rinpoche can practise Dorje Shugden: http://youtu.be/pWi1fJkTA9Q ….So D.S. must not be the devil if H.H. blessed the practice to one person.

      Reply
      • 

        Robert Anderson on Feb 17, 2015 at 1:15 am

        Modern Buddhist Fellowship (Singapore) Official Opening: http://youtu.be/70EI-dV1eVw ….Thank You Rinpoche for putting out this new video that explains about D.S.!!!!

        I have seen videos of people with signs on their businesses that BAN D.S. practitioners from entering. To be a buddha you can ban NOBODY!!!!! When i practice lama tsongkhapa i put all of my so called enemies in front of me to bless them first. After a while of doing this I have no one in front of me. I realized no one is my enemy. The reasons I didn’t like them was my own selfish thought. One by one they became my friends in my mind. To hate someone is to hate yourself.

        Reply
32. 

    Alice Tay on Feb 15, 2015 at 8:16 pm

    宗喀巴大師的出现，开创了藏传佛教的新修行的制度。宗喀巴大師以身作则，利用严格的戒律与善巧的方法来引导众生，来重振佛教。根据宗喀巴大師 的传承，是先有文殊菩萨口传与宗喀巴大師，然后一代接一代传到了至尊嘉杰帕绷喀仁波切，至尊当赤江仁波切和至尊宋仁波切。因此在藏传佛教里，格鲁派可以说是比较注重纯正的传承。

    由此可见，一位上师的传承是很重要的。而要成为一位合格的上师都必须有慈悲心、正知正念、觉悟等等良好的素质。

    在这里，我看到了上师詹杜固仁波切的慈悲心。无论面对种种的挑战，他还是不断的想尽办法来引导我们，让我们的修行的路途中有所领悟。

    我也看到仁波切一心一意地依止上师，不管其他人曾经告诉过他是错的或是承受多少压力，仁波切却一直守住他的承诺以及从来没有放弃过至尊宋仁波切所赐予仁波切的修持与护法，而且还一直很敬爱与信任他的根本上师至尊宋仁波切。

    除此，仁波切也时时刻刻提醒着弟子们要持守的皈依戒。我们时常可以看到仁波切的诸多博文都是关于皈依戒里所提到的如：严禁我们造语的四大过失 （离间语、恶语、绮语、妄语），意的三大过失 （贪心、嗔心、邪见），以及身的三大过失 （杀生、偷盗、邪淫）。

    感谢仁波切的坦白，因为让我们知道他部分的修持法。无论如何，仁波切最主要的目的就是修心～修持佛法。

    最后，当我们充分的明白上师所对弟子的用心，外界人不明白的这一切已经不重要了。

    Reply
33. 

    tsemtulku on Feb 13, 2015 at 2:26 am

    It’s amazing, sometimes when you make a spiritual choice, some people can criticize and segregate you for it. As if your choice must be approved by them. If they don’t approve they have some mandate to tell you that you are wrong and also can be rude for your choice of faith. If you don’t pray to what they pray to, then your ‘god’ is a demon or something. How archaic. LOL. I find that amazing. LOL again. How can you come to my space, face and life and tell me my religion is wrong? I didn’t hurt anyone with my faith and I don’t intend to. Whatever others of my same faith are or are not doing is not me. So don’t bundle me up into the same package. I am me and they are them. Besides, I am more than my religion. There are many aspects of who I am. So don’t just look at my spiritual choice and summarize me. You don’t know me. And you don’t have to know me. Also I owe nothing to you. I don’t need your approval for my spirituality. I would love to be your friend but let’s not let our spiritual choice ever get in the way. Be modern, be today and accept who I am as I don’t hurt anyone. 🙂 So look at all parts of who I am but the bottom line is my spirituality is my choice, do not ever presume to comment, disparage, judge or even think anything about it. I eat what I want. I dress as I like. Live where I want. Befriend who I wish. Write what I like on my social media space and pray to whatever I feel is working for me. Full stop! 🙂 Thanks for letting me live my life as your opinion of it is not needed, requested or solicited and I say this with deepest respects to you.. Humbly, Tsem Rinpoche

    Reply
34. 

    sarahyap on Feb 7, 2015 at 7:16 pm

    For me, I have received teachings from H.H. the Dalai Lama and I still have to respect him as one of my lamas. It might be different for some of you who have not. But my approach must be respectful. Even if I didn’t have teachings from H.H. the Dalai Lama, would still approach him in a respectful manner. The advice against Dorje Shugden practice by His Holiness is hurting many people in fact millions. It’s creating discord, segregation and pain. Everything the Dalai Lama teaches is about compassion, tolerance and reconciliation and the Shugden practitioners deserve that too. I therefore, respectfully prostrating to the ground would ask H.H. the Dalai Lama to please send his ministers to talk to the leaders of the Shugden group and resolve this issue. I say all this with deepest respects. As a part Tibetan, I also wish His Holiness the best. Long live the Dalai lama. Humbly, Tsem Rinpoche

    Reply
    • 

      Robert Anderson on Feb 14, 2015 at 2:51 am

      No words I can say will help. My thoughts and prayers go with you at this time. May this all be resolved soon. Thank you Tsem Tulku Rinpoche for adding a video of your alter on youtube today. I was blessed just to see it. May my guru have a long healthy life. /\ /\ /\

      Reply
35. 

    Uncle Eddie on Feb 7, 2015 at 6:09 pm

    We at Kechara House (Malaysia) will never abandon our teacher who showed us that being tolerant, compassionate and working hard for the benefit of others is the true meaning of Life! True spirituality, as we have learnt, is tolerance, kindness, forgiveness and compassionate in action, though many of us may be far from it. But, inspired by our Guru’s action, we are determined to keep practicing and working on it until we achieve these qualities. With folded hands,we thank Rinpoche eternally for the teaching and for showing us how, through his good examples. We respect all teachers who compassionately train their students like Rinpoche did. We shall always follow a teacher who touches our heart and can inspire us to transform from selfish, angry, intolerant persons to better, kind and helpful beings than what we were before! Om Mani Padme Hung.

    Reply
36. 

    Jampa Lhamo on Feb 7, 2015 at 4:18 pm

    Dear Rinpoche

    Have you discussed the Shugden controversy with the current incarnation of your Holy Guru Zong Rinpoche?

    If so what did he advise?

    If you haven’t why not?

    Reply
    • 

      Pastor Elena Khong Jean Ai on Dec 4, 2015 at 2:25 am

      Hi Jampa,

      Thank you for your questions. In answer to your queries:

      1) Rinpoche received sogtae from the previous incarnation of Kyabje Zong Rinpoche. So if Rinpoche were to contemplate giving it up, he would have to request the previous incarnation of Kyabje Zong Rinpoche for permission to do so; according to the scriptures, not even the current incarnation Kyabje Zong Chocktrul Rinpoche can override the instructions of the previous incarnation. So to even discuss it would be irrelevant 🙂

      I feel that you may find this blog post helpful: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/inspiration-worthy-words/i-pray-to-what-i-want-to.html

      In particular, this paragraph: “For example, for myself, my root teacher is His Holiness Kyabje Zong Rinpoche and Zong Rinpoche has given me a set of practices for me, my life and my enlightenment. I have been following it diligently for the last 25 years. Suddenly, there are people and lamas and students who tell me Zong Rinpoche was wrong. Well, Zong Rinpoche has passed away so I cannot go and get his permission and ask, “Can I stop such and such practice you gave me?” The new lama cannot override Zong Rinpoche. If I were to stop any of my practices given to me by Zong Rinpoche, I would need Zong Rinpoche’s permission and no new or other lamas can override his word. That applies to everyone in any practice, with any lama in any situation. Not even the current incarnation of Zong Rinpoche may override the instructions of the previous one for the previous one’s students. If we were to start in the direction of one teacher can override another teacher, then the teacher who has overridden a previous teacher may himself be overridden in the future by another, and it never ends. It will only lead to chronic confusion, doubt and eventually disillusionment. So basically, whatever practices your teacher has given you from the depths of his heart, practice it all the way and rejoice in the teachings of the teachers for their disciples. Am I going to go on a rampage for the rest of my life, telling all voodoo practitioners that their path is bad and that they should give up, and that they will go to hell? No, I’m not going to do that.”

      2) why not? Because Rinpoche practises Dorje Shugden and His Holiness Zong Chocktrul Rinpoche is completing his studies in Gaden Shartse, which has publicly given up the practice. To be in contact with His Holiness now would invite trouble for Kyabje Zong Rinpoche. People who are in contact with Shugden practitioners will be viewed with suspicion and surveilled, just as Jamyang Norbu was for simply appearing in a picture with Dechen Tulku. This type of surveillance is the last thing Rinpoche wants for the current incarnation of his root guru. That’s why 🙂

      Thank you,
      Pastor Jean Ai

      Reply
37. 

    So Kin Hoe (Ipoh) on Feb 7, 2015 at 12:17 pm

    Dear Rinpoche,

    Thank you for sharing your teachings and advice with us on how to work ourselves through this conflict which occurs out of our control. To abide and practise with one’s Guru Devotion is vital for self attainment and Enlightenment. By following our Guru’s advice and teachings should not lead us to the wrong way but a suitable path for us to gain realization and liberation from samsara since our Guru understands us the most of which practice method is good for us to follow and practice.

    May the ban of Dorje Shugden practice to be lifted soon and may all sentient beings be free of conflicts, hatred, anger and other negative emotions.

    Best wishes with folded hands,
    kin hoe

    Reply
38. 

    Alan Chan (KHJB) on Feb 7, 2015 at 10:36 am

    How fortunate am i to meet Rinpoche this life , Tulku Rinpoche is my root guru , I will follow his teaching all the way without doubt. May DS ban release as soon as possible which to united all Buddhist in one family.

    Thank you Rinpoche

    With folded hand

    Alan Chan KHJB

    Reply
39. 

    Vinnie Tan on Feb 7, 2015 at 12:48 am

    Dear Rinpoche,

    Thank you so much for this article. It not only just reminds and teaches us the importance of not speaking of harsh word that would create negative karma from there, but also how we should be dealing with situations when we are caught in a dilemma between our teachers.

    Thank you RInpoche for emphasising the importance to us on keeping our vows and promises that we make.

    Reply
40. 

    Kevin W on Feb 5, 2015 at 1:39 am

    Thank you Rinpoche for speaking your mind about the Shugden issue. I guess it all boils down to having pure and unwavering faith in our root Guru not matter what happens.. and not letting our minds be be embroiled by “issues”. The end result of the practice is more important, which is the Dharma. Focusing on controversial issues no matter how big is beyond our control, can only leads to more disturbance of the mind when we fight against it which leads to all karmas arise.. and hence the creation of more negative karma. Everything will be played out eventually just like a movie. The key is “Acceptance” whatever conditions surrounding it, and go about about our practices, our vows, our whatever our Protector given by our root guru. Because HH Rinpoche’s main practices is the most important. Which is Dharma for the benefit of all sentient beings. Thank you HH Rinpoche.

    Reply
    • 

      Robert Anderson on Feb 5, 2015 at 11:30 am

      How true. Tsem tulku rinpoche is my guru. The dalai lama isnt my guru. So no controversy for me…. I do shugden. I imagine if i asked a buddha which one is right he would say “what does that half to do with the transformation of your mind to enlightenment?”. Reminds me of when my father used to tell me “If your looking for a fight, you will find one around every corner”. I only came back to make sure that i did not draw anyone’s view negatively about D.S. I felt bad after posting and said my wrong to lama tsongkhapa. May all not worry because worry is pointless and only hurts ourselves.

      Reply
41. 

    Adeline Tan on Feb 4, 2015 at 4:08 pm

    Thank you Rinpoche for the clear explanation about the Shugden issue. As for myself if this practice is good enough for Rinpoche, it should be beneficial for me and i will follow this practice all the way.

    Reply
42. 

    freon on Feb 3, 2015 at 9:30 pm

    Dear Rinpoche,

    As a student who are sincerely wanting to learn dharma. I think our job is to learn and practice Dharma. Not to criticize any High Lama or to be a police in Buddhism, and keep on pinpoint on other Lama’s mistakes, which i think is very wrong.

    From this article, I learned the important of Guru devotion. If we have faiths and devote to a Guru, which is an important element in Vajrayana Buddhism, we should not questions what is our Guru motivation. I believed that the Guru is the emanation of Buddha Vajradhara, therefore, there would not be mistake if the Guru manifest in certain way that seem challenge to our mind. If the moment we could not understand the challenge, I think we should watched and believe in our Guru.

    Thank you Rinpoche for showing us to choose the middle way. And beware to practice spirituality not samsaric.

    Humbly your Student,
    Freon

    Reply
43. 

    Michael Aguilar on Feb 3, 2015 at 7:12 pm

    Dear Rinpoche,
    Thankyou for speaking out about Dorje Shugden. One solution tI have heard suggested o the conflict caused by the Dalai Lamaś ban of the practice of Dorje Shugden is that to keep the peace Dhorje Shugden practitioners should accept defeat and simply switch to another Protector. After all there are quite a few Dharma Protectors all schools accept are fully enlightened beings, such as Mahakala, Kalarupa, Palden Lhamo or Kinkara. Indeed many Dorje Shugden practitioners already rely on these Protectors in their practice of Kangso and Vajrayoginiś Quick Path. Kalarupa in particular has exactly the same nature as Dorje Shugden, both being emanations of Manjushri, so why dont Shugden practitioners simply submit and rely on Kalarupa instead. Admittedly its a bit galling, since we have done nothing wrong, but then accepting defeat is usually like that. On the surface this sounds very reasonable, but for some reason it did not convince our Gurus, such as Trijang Rinpoche, Zong Rinpoche or Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. Even after the Dalai Lama had started speaking out publically against Dorje Shugden, Zong Rinpoche for example continued to promote the practice, as did Trijang Rinpche and Geshe Kelsang. These Lamas are not stupid, they could easily see that this would lead to conflict with the Dalai Lama. As students of these great Lamas, our main reason for continuing with the practice of Dorje Shugden may simply be loyalty towards our Teacher. But what is their reason? Zong Rinpoche continued to promote Dorje Shugden even when it became obvious it would lead to conflict with the Dalai Lama because he clearly saw that we need Dorje Shugden. My question is why do we need Dorje Shugden nowadays? Why is it not enough for us to rely on Kalarupa or other Protectors? From what you have heard from your Teachers, and from your own experience of relying on Dorje Shugden over the years, why do you feel Dorje Shugden practice is necessary for us? (And by the way, who is “us” – is Dorje Shugden practice necessary for all Buddhists, or for all followers of Je Tsong Khapa, or just for followers of the special lineage of Pabongha and Trijang Rinpoche). I would very much appreciate your advice here, for though I instinctively feel the practice is especially necessary in this modern world, I can’t really explain why. Thankyou

    Reply
44. 

    Stella on Feb 3, 2015 at 1:47 pm

    Dearest Rinpoche,

    Thank you for sharing this post. It brought a few points home:

    1. Rinpoche walks the talk – Rinpoche’s demonstrates impeccable Guru Devotion in both cases of “coming out” on the Dorje Shugden issue only after permission granted by Rinpoche’s Guru, as well as not backing down from practicing Dorje Shugden practice given by his Root Guru, because of conflict.

    2. Compassion conquers all – while one may be shunned or insulted or even attacked for spiritual difference, but there is no use in retaliating with the same as it only furthers the divide. Rinpoche demonstrates true compassion by voicing out gently on the issue with facts and clarity instead of hatred and threats as what I have witnessed from supporter of Anti-Dorje-Shugden, in this blog as well as FB space.

    3. It is so fortunate for us to be able to receive teachings from Rinpoche who has proper lineage that can be traced back to the Buddha himself. And it is very clear in Rinpoche’s teaching that our main practice is Lama Tsongkhapa’s practice and mind transformation. Since there is no flaw in Rinpoche’s lineage, I will pratice wholeheartedly whatever teaching Rinpoche confers.

    Thank You so much, Rinpoche for all the teachings. Rinpoche’s teaching has improved my life ever since I started practicing. As such, I will not ever abandon or turn my back on the Guru who bestows the teaching nor the organization who stand firm behind the Guru.

    Humbly and sincerely,
    Stella

    Reply
45. 

    Toh Cheng See on Feb 2, 2015 at 8:49 am

    Dear Rinpoche,
    Thank you for sharing your feelings on this issue. I am a new student and thanks to Rinpoche’s and Pastor Yek Yee and some senior members who have shared with me the issue of the controversy and the power of Dorge Shugden. It hurts me to see how some people speak harshly and rudely towards Rinpoche on Rinpoche’s posting on Facebook. Even though I am fairly new and have not even heard about Dorje Shugden before till of late , I have my trust in you Rinpoche.
    Thank you. _/|\_.

    Reply
46. 

    Denise Kuek on Feb 1, 2015 at 11:18 pm

    Dear Rinpoche, thank you for the post. Everybody has their own rights to do what they want to do, pray what they want to pray, say what they want to say, even if they keep silent, it is their rights to keep silent. I do not know why some people are so busybody, they like to talk, judge, criticise what the others do? They should do their own things, mind their own business and save their time to benefit others..I hope the conflict with praying Dorje Shugden will be solved soon by having a peaceful meeting from two sides. Thank you my guru Tsem Rinpoche, what Rinpoche doing for this conflict show Rinpoche’s compassion, I wish this issue can be solved through the blessing from Rinpoche.

    Reply
47. 

    Pee Bee Chong on Feb 1, 2015 at 3:18 pm

    Thank you Rinpoche for the sharing. No matter what happened or discussed, we will only follow whatever teachings and instructions given by Rinpoche.

    Reply
48. 

    Stacy cye on Jan 31, 2015 at 5:31 pm

    Dear Tsem Rinpoche,
    Just like most of the people here, I have deep respect for your guru devotion, which I seriously lacking. That’s the reason I’m in where I am now. Lingering in the ocean of samsara. Chuckle

    Reply
49. 

    Pastor Han Nee on Jan 31, 2015 at 2:08 pm

    The best thing that has happened to me in this life is to have met my Guru, Tsem Rinpoche, and received precious teachings and practices from him. He is my Spiritual Guide, who has taught me to become a better person and to continue to strive to be better to benefit others. It is through his selfless compassionate actions of body, speech and mind, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, that I see the Dharma that he teaches as living Dharma, to be wholly embraced.

    Best of all, I learned that through his unwavering Guru Devotion, he has moved effortlessly between teaching the Dharma and practicing the Dharma in total unity.

    When people criticize my Guru about his disrespecting the Dalai Lama by keeping the practice of Shugden, which his Guru had given him, and cannot understand that this is not so, it is because they cannot understand the middle non-dualistic way my Guru is pursuing.In this middle-way, there is no conflict because there is no extreme opposites involved as ‘like’ and ‘dislike’, or ‘love’ and ‘hate’.There is NO SIDE taken. No belonging to the opposite camp.Like a true Bodhisattva that he is, in this middle way, he adheres to, there is only a balanced view born of equanimity,respect and love.It is the way that DOES NOT BRING ANY HARM TO ANYONE IN ANY WAY. Hence, Tsem Rinpoche says:

    “My world is the middle way, I can take the good things from all my lamas and practice, and the things I don’t agree with, I don’t have to comment and make negative snide remarks against them, or I don’t have to choose.
    I choose to respect all my lamas and other teachers, and I choose to practice what they have given me, because in the end, it is the practice that will bring me to enlightenment.
    My world offers me peace of mind, your world makes you compete and feel disloyal to one lama or another”.

    Finally, Rinpoche is speaking up now only because his gurus say he can do so NOW, not before this. Again this is a mark of his enduring GURU DEVOTION.

    I prostrate to my Guru and thank him for the precious teachings he gives here in this blogpost.

    Reply
50. 

    James on Jan 31, 2015 at 10:59 am

    Something strange…. All the comments seem to side the writer. Are negative comments filtered?

    Reply
    • 

      tsemtulku on Feb 1, 2015 at 4:01 am

      Nothing is filtered.

      Admin

      Reply
      • 

        James on Feb 3, 2015 at 4:02 pm

        *Nothing* is filtered. I understand.

        Reply
51. 

    tsemtulku on Jan 31, 2015 at 6:20 am

    Dear everyone, His Holiness Dalai Lama says to kick out monks from the monasteries who do not listen. I was so surprised at this short speech: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BS6hq5HJNik

    Reply
    • 

      Robert Anderson on Jan 31, 2015 at 10:59 am

      I thought you knew??? I heard gaden monastery has a wall built to devide D.S. practitioners from the others. H.H. said in a video i watched that anyone practicing D.S. may not go to his.teachings. from this video (THE ORACLE – A 400 Year Old Secret – HD FEATURE FILM: http://youtu.be/zQ1VvvrAILo)…. H.H. states D.S practitioners are told not to recognize any other sect except D.S. therefore H.H had no choice but to ban D.S. from being used because it segregated them from the other sects and thats not dharma. He also says D.S. is not a protector like setrap but is recognized as a low level woodland spirit. You are my master Tsem therfore i do what you say no matter what. I thought H.H was further spliting the sects of Buddhism using his far far far seeing clairvoyance into the future. The video states D.S is not a bad practice and since your teacher taught it maby he knew that D.S. would in the future become a buddha many lives from now. Like you said in a video i watched last week (i think it was about nechem) how powerful he was in the past is not how powerful he will be in the future because he has gained many attainments over hundreds of lifetimes. I dont care who says what thou because you are my buddha. In the 200 plus dharma videos of yours that i have watched so far …. you have taught me more about life than all the people i have met combined.

      Reply
      • 

        Robert Anderson on Jan 31, 2015 at 11:25 am

        I said my last post with the utmost respect /\ /\ /\. I am sure Zong Rinpoche had good reason to teach you what he taught you. Please take my post as nothing but possitive with nothing but love. I was hesitant to post it because you are by far smarter than me. Please live a long life teaching the world the real dharma /\ /\ /\.

        Reply
      • 

        Robert Anderson on Jan 31, 2015 at 10:37 pm

        I apologize…. i posted the first post from my recollection of that video i watched a week or 2 ago. I was referring to what was daid at 37 minutes into the video by the narrator. H.H. never said anything to what i stated. I shouldnt be on here trying to gain praise anyway (wrong motivation). I will insted keep watching your 12 part series on the 8 thoughts of mind transformation on youtube. I bow to H.H and Tsem everday since they are both on my alter. May any negative karma or merits come to me only and not Tsem for my actions.

        Reply
52. 

    Phng Keng Hwa on Jan 30, 2015 at 11:49 pm

    Sorry, Rinpoche. There are some typo errors in my previous comment.
    I meant to say ‘I’ instead of ‘wl’ and ‘our friends’ instead of ‘your friends.

    Thank you.

    Your humble student,
    Keng Hwa.

    Reply
53. 

    Phng Keng Hwa on Jan 30, 2015 at 11:38 pm

    Dear Rinpoche,

    I’m a little late at reading this, but thank you for posting this. _/|\_
    I will always be faithful to you, Rinpoche. 🙂

    Rinpoche, when our protector was still a secret, my sister would still draw her own adaptation of him as well as Setrap. And sometimes, wI would, with her permission, show some of your school friends. We would not tell them his name but say that he was Setraps brother and a very powerful protector. Our intention when showing our friends Setrap and him were not because we wanted we wanted to disobey Rinpoche but because we wanted out friends to gain some merits by just laying their eyes on powerful protectors. I hope that by doing that we have not disrespected Rinpoche in any way. And if we have, I humbly apologize on behalf of my sister as well as myself.

    Your humble student,
    Keng Hwa.

    Reply
54. 

    William on Jan 30, 2015 at 8:45 pm

    Thank you Rinpoche for explaining and showing us that we have a choice of the middle way rather than just choosing to be either side of the fence. It must have been difficult for Rinpoche all these years to practise the practice bestowed by Kyabje Zong Rinpoche and also not to disrespect HHDL. I am very happy that Rinpoche can now finally stop hiding and be open about protector practice which benefits many. 🙂

    Reply
55. 

    Sharyn Lim SC (PG) on Jan 30, 2015 at 7:54 pm

    This article has really touched my heart and moved me deeply as I can clearly see strong Guru devotion shown by Rinpoche towards His root Guru. I agree that most importantly the practises given by our Guru has benefited us and so many people for 400 years. How could this be wrong? Now Rinpoche has openly shared His thoughts on that and His ultimate goal that this on going conflict and ban be resolved soon and thus millions of DS practitioners worldwide can practise DS peacefully. I really hope this can be achieved soon so that those karmically ready and current practictioners of DS can continue this practise without being discriminated or abused anymore. With my deepest gratitude, thank you Rinpoche for sharing your sincere thoughts on this. May Rinpoche live long and well.

    Reply
56. 

    Emily Stevenson on Jan 30, 2015 at 6:49 am

    I posted this on Twitter 1st reaction I got was , beware , @ something or another is the #Devil.?

    Reply
57. 

    paolorossi4444 on Jan 29, 2015 at 10:04 pm

    THANKS FOR YOUR CLARITY:PAOLO from italy

    Reply
58. 

    Andrew Hibberd on Jan 29, 2015 at 4:16 pm

    Wow. Amazing historical article.

    Reply
59. 

    Frederick Law on Jan 29, 2015 at 1:52 am

    It is clear what Rinpoche has been doing is merely following the advice from His Guru, and also keeping the tradition of Tantra by not revealing the Yidam and protector unless being given permission. How ignorance we are that to think what ever Guru gave us is such a huge blessing we can flaunt it to others, without us knowing we are breaking the vow and staining our Samaya with our Guru, most importantly we create a cause for ourself for not achieving results in our attainments.

    Rinpoche is our inspiration and a good role model for everyone of us to follow of how should a disciple takes Guru Devotion so dearly as part of our spirituality, because our Guru is the roots of all our attainments, our Guru is the person who gave us Dharma, love, care, blessing and teaching not for our praise or money in return, but it is given out of their compassion for our wellbeing, for our future life, and most importantly our Enlightenment.

    I agree that as a student to our Lama, Guru Devotion is utmost importance, but never to an extent we exert brute and criticize other practitioners or other Lama of the own practice. Since we taken refuge with our Lama, we have actually taken refuge in the 3 Jewels which is the essence of Buddha Dharma, then it is more important that we keep our vows and samaya pure not only to our Guru, but also to the Buddha as well, why i say so, because everyday in our prayer we take Refuge to our Guru, Buddha, Dharma and Sangha, we are directly taking refuge to Buddha and His Mandala. Isn’t it that we are breaking the vow and distancing ourself with Buddhism and at the same time creating bad karma by attacking and discrediting another Guru who is also spreading and teaching Dharma through different approach, Yidam, Protector and practices? Since if we say we have Guru, we are Buddhist, why make distinction and disparaging others? so illogical.

    Thank You Rinpoche for your explanation in this post for us to understand and centemplate deeply what we should be doing as a Student.

    Reply
60. 

    Sharon Ong on Jan 28, 2015 at 10:52 pm

    Dearest Rinpoche,

    Rinpoche’s approach to this whole Shugden issue speaks volumes of your compassion, courage, wisdom and practice. I pray that the healing will start soon, so that no one will be hurt further with all this discrimination and prejudice. After all, no matter what our lineage is, who our lama is, we are all brothers and sisters in Dharma. It is hurtful to see one fraction hurling harsh words and stones at another. I wish that everyone will just accept each other’s differences and live in harmony, practising along side with each other, promoting the Buddhadharma.

    With folded hands, thank you for this post. It truly moved me.

    Reply
61. 

    Li Kim on Jan 28, 2015 at 10:22 pm

    Thank you Rinpoche for this article. It gives deep insight and strength to my mind. I am so glad that I only have Rinpoche and my only Guru. I guess my “defiance” when I was a kid when I was forced to temples gave me the chance to meet the right Guru whom I can understand and learn from and who makes me think better and kinder. As for this conflict… it will go no where except more suffering and pain, and this outcome does not make it about religion but politics. No religion enforces nor teaches inflicting suffering or pain.

    I am blessed to have HH Zong Rinpoche as my spiritual grandfather, and I thank Tsem Rinpoche for accepting me as his student. I am so sharing this article on Facebook!!!

    Reply
62. 

    shelly tai on Jan 28, 2015 at 9:28 pm

    Dear Rinpoche thank you for sharing your thoughts, i think the middle way is the best way because is a way we practice tolarence, kindness and ultimately the bodhichitta. I personally really do not know much about Dharma so from the beginning until now I only follow what Rinpoche teach of cause I have not fully transform myself but I will not give up because I found a right guru and this is the path will lead us to ultimate happiness.
    With folded hand
    Shelly tai

    Reply
63. 

    KH Ng on Jan 28, 2015 at 5:21 pm

    Dear Rinpoche,
    I can’t help but feel that Rinpoche’s “coming out” is an act of a Mahasiddha showing beings, Shugden’s side or otherwise, the practice of love, kindness and compassion driven by infallible Guru Devotion. Hence, starting from the root of attainments which is Guru Devotion, we can attain the enlightened qualities of love, kindness, compassion which is the core practices all religion. Like MartinC commented, it is a living lesson in the practice of equanimity.

    Boddhisattvas take the suffering of samsara and shows a path to enlightenment; and Rinpoche stated many times as the “Middle Way”; for the benefit of sentient beings. I rejoice to have the fortune to witness this act as a teaching and I will always contemplate and absorb this teaching until enlightenment.

    I will always practice Guru Devotion as Rinpoche has shown.

    With Folded Hands!
    KH Ng.

    Reply
64. 

    Eva Krebs on Jan 28, 2015 at 4:35 pm

    Dear Rinpoche, i have just read your article and i can feel some of the suffering at least, that you must have gone through with having gurus on both sides of the protector conflict.

    I am a Western woman practicing in the Kagyu tradition born in 1955. How i found your name? Since many many years i was waiting to be taught something about Trance and Channeling when recently your video popped up on the side of my YouTube. I liked it, it answered many of my questions. I had these questions because since 32 years i had experiences in this field. They were commented by my guru but I was waiting to get teachings about it. My motivation was to treat it in a responsible way and to make sure no spirit is mingling into using an other name. So thank you very much i know a lot more now.

    I see that you are very determined to keep all the practices you got from your gurus and you gave your reasons. Now it seems to me (without knowing much about it) the Dalai Lama is also determined to discourage people to take on the specific protector practice having his own reasons.

    When i think what could be a solution i came to the following:

    First the question is since you feel the need out of loyalty to your gurus to continue the practice do you also feel the need to give it on?

    Secondly: (because my motivation is harmony i allow myself to tell you that) because of my own experiences i strongly believe that it is possible to channel the Buddha Shakyamuni. Since you asked in one of your quotes :”What would the Buddha tell…….. in this regard”
    How about trying to get the Buddha’s answer in this difficult topic?

    As i understand it the subject could be even more crucial than destroyed monasteries that can be rebuild and Sangha that was killed by the Chinese Maoists who can reincarnate.
    The subject here seems to be: is the practice good or neutral or harmful as an contributive element to the survival of Tibetan Buddhism also in the future.

    I know that in the Vajrayana tradition as a skill full means we see also a not yet enlightened lama as the Buddha and so can get the blessings of the Buddha. But does this also apply to protectors?

    I also would like to point out to the teachings HH Karmapa gave during the Arya Kshema teachings here in Bodhgaya on January 19, 2015 (i think it is accessible on YouTube) about how to be towards enlightened deities versus how to be with wordly gods.
    He refers mostly to scriptures and historical accounts.

    Does it really not matter wether the protector is enlightened or not, if it’s practice was given by one of our root lamas? is the practice really save for the practitioner?

    Please, when you debate this can you do it leaving a side the hurt you went through over many years, can you dabate in a mind frame of free investigation? May be a way can be found to debate it newly on the basis of scriptures and channeling.

    It seems to me that the question is also very much how the practice affects the practitioner himself in the LONG run. What does the scripture say, how the level of wisdom of the protector can be determined and by whom. What to do when the practice is given by a highly realised root lama. Is the practice really save for you? In general is it good to continue to spread the practice?

    In the end i hope the answers can be find in the Buddhas teachings after careful, subtle and free investigation and hopefully topped with some direct insight.

    Anyways i honestly wish you a constructive debate about the subject and that it will lead to harmony.

    Reply
65. 

    Kenny Wong Kwok Jing on Jan 28, 2015 at 2:14 pm

    Dear Rinpoche,

    Thank you for explaining and elaborating how one should approach this sticky situation. I am very happy and amazed on how you explain your approach that we should take the middle path and not be force to choose sides. Many people might call that fence sitting, but I would think that Buddha and all the great teachers like Jesus ect thought us to take the peaceful path (the way of the pacifist) We can agree to disagree but we do not need to be enemies. (You can call me names, i dun care frankly)

    I totally agree on how one should continue to practice what his/her guru has instructed. You have shown us what is truly guru devotion all about, there are many around who give lip service and elaborate speeches on how they adore and respect their guru’s. But they abandon their guru’s instruction and teachings without even batting an eye when it suits their convenience.

    You have shown me how to be kind, honest, courageous, faithful and loyal. And if these are not the virtues we as Buddhist practitioners should strive to achieve and embody. Than what is?

    With folded hands,

    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing your thoughts with us.

    Reply
66. 

    Calvin Thum (Penang) on Jan 28, 2015 at 2:05 pm

    Dear Tsem Tulku Rinpoche,

    Thank you for your sharing.
    Everyone has a choice which we cant control. The only thing we can control is ourselves. We make our own choice, craft our own path, and go all the way with Guru devotion.

    Reply
67. 

    MartinC on Jan 28, 2015 at 1:47 pm

    For so many years I have witnessed Tsem Rinpoche being ‘attacked’ by both sides of the controversy – being known for Rinpoche’s strong devotion to Zong Rinpoche and hence likely to have kept the protector practice, as well as for not speaking out against His Holiness. And finally when Rinpoche does voice Rinpoche’s thoughts on the matter, I see that it gives so many people relief and hope and an avenue to practice dharma without conflict overshadowing their practice.

    As I read this and some other recent writings by Tsem Rinpoche, I couldn’t help but think how fortunate we are to be guided thus and the lessons from this can be applied to so many other situations in our lives. Come to think of it, this is a living lesson in equanimity.

    The dharma is far too precious to be torn apart and broken into bits and I hope this is the beginning of the healing process between parties to the controversy. I am extremely grateful that Rinpoche so compassionately absorbed so many years of criticisms and insults but did not compromise on Rinpoche’s devotion. It is one thing to read Ashvagosha and other works about guru devotion and its quite another to see it being lived what seemed to be effortlessly when we surrender our own preferences to dharma.

    Reply
68. 

    ECheah on Jan 28, 2015 at 1:31 pm

    Thank you, Rinpoche for your kindness. As your students, we should never lose sight of or take for granted how extremely lucky and fortunate we are to receive through Rinpoche the sacred teachings, guidance and blessings from such a long line of erudite masters, Kyabje Zong Rinpoche, Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche, Kyabje Pabongka Rinpoche and beyond. What great, good fortune! What further validation we do need? What they teach and the lineages they pass down can only be beneficial. How can they cause harm?
    Each Guru has his different methods to suit the levels and conditions of the student at any one time. Sometimes they manifest conflict. But who are we, with our unattained minds, to judge what is right, what is wrong? We can’t see beyond our immediate circumstance let alone the bigger picture. Perhaps the conflict is a means for us to practice patience, compassion? The comfort zone gets us nowhere. What we don’t fully understand, we should refrain from passing judgement. It is safer to have faith in one’s own guru.
    Our karmas brought us together and we should follow all the way. What is important ultimately is results, not fame, political correctness, popularity or fitting in with the crowd. If this is what we need, this is what we must do, not pick and choose. One lama one centre makes complete sense.

    Reply
69. 

    Fernando on Jan 28, 2015 at 12:05 pm

    Dear Rimpoche, thank you for this and all your teachings, I wish you a long and happy life. Dorje Shugden controversy is something I can’t quite understand, but the win-win solution would be bliss, thank you again.

    Reply
    • 

      Robert on Jan 28, 2015 at 12:33 pm

      I consider tsem tulku rinpoche my teacher. I have been confused about the whole d.s. controversy since day one. Video after video.. debate after debate. It all just made me more confused. Then i saw d.s. merchandise for sale at kenchara and i let go. If tsem is my guru then i need not question it. If it is good enough for my guru then i accept it without question. If this alienates me then so be it. If it makes me a target then so be it. If it means i will never meet the dali lama then so be it. Controversy is like poltics and arguing (there is no winner). Since h.h. has clairvoyance then maby he is looking far into the future and splitting Buddhism into more sects to make it grow, but either way i follow my guru for without him i would be lost.

      Reply
70. 

    Jay Freeman on Jan 28, 2015 at 9:53 am

    Thank you so so much Venerable Tsem Rinpoche. I admire you and this and your previous post have really inspired me and caused my faith in you and in my Guru Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche to increase.

    Thank you deeply.

    SO much love.

    jay

    Reply
    • 

      Pastor Jay Jae on Feb 15, 2015 at 2:14 am

      Dear Jay,

      Thank you for taking time off to read Rinpoche’s blog. It is only by knowledge we protect ourselves from confusion and being mislead by mere hearsay.

      May the sun of Je Tsongkhapa’s doctrine shine forever!

      PJJ

      Reply
71. 

    Hyun Il on Jan 28, 2015 at 9:35 am

    Dear Rinpoche,

    This is the first time I have posted on this site. I am not a Tibetan Buddhism practitioner, I practice Korean Zen, so I am not completely familiar with some of these specific Tibetan practices. I have heard of the Shugden disputes a bit, so I am least familiar that there are differing viewpoints. What I will say, is in my experience, I have seen religion, of all different kinds, divide sometimes. This is that sincerely breaks my heart as it is the exact opposite of what I believe it is meant to do, whether we are Buddhists, Christians, Muslims, Jews, etc etc. So although I do not have the experience that you have in regards to this specific practice, I am sorry that it has caused anyone pain, on both sides of the aisle. Division does not progress us forward. I am saddened by anything that focuses more on divisiveness and makes us forget our interconnected nature. So although I don’t know enough about the subject, I wanted to say I think you have laid out your approach in such a respectful and beautiful way, a way of inclusiveness, and not division. The great Gandhi is one of the people I look to most in my life, as a wonderful example of kindness and non-violence. You seem to have his understanding that while you will stand for what you believe in, you do it in a way that helps someone who opposes your viewpoint understand your explanations more, without causing division, without putting them down. I thank you for all the wonderful teachings I have read on your site and watched on Youtube. You are a strong and compassionate individual, and I hope you continue to bring your message of togetherness to all beings.

    My hands palm to palm to you, your Eminence,

    Hyun Il

    Reply
    • 

      sweekeong on Jan 28, 2015 at 11:36 am

      Dear HyunII,
      Thank you sharing your thoughts here. Although we may have different faith but by practicing the teachings to heart, as I am quite sure you do, then we can live in harmony along side each others. Religions do not separate people but bring people together. If that is not the case it is the opposite and we no longer can call/label it as religion, it would be individual interest/agenda because it is done out of a selfish motive not for collective good.

      Reply
      • 

        Hyun Il on Jan 28, 2015 at 7:24 pm

        I agree. I hope I did not come across as labeling all religions as doing this. I guess a better way would be to say that I have seen this happen in the name of religion, which of course seems to come out of selfish motive. But I completely agree, religion should bring us together and not break us apart. Thank you for your kind and intelligent words.

        Reply
72. 

    Matthew Sturgis on Jan 28, 2015 at 5:45 am

    Thank you your Eminence for sharing your views on this subject. Here in the west (America) we tend to be a bit harsh with our words. While I personally don’t agree with the practice, like you stated, that gives me no right to attack you for it, nor will I. I have learned far too much from you to see this as a negative thing. I hope things continue to go well for you and KH in the future.

    Your Dharma Friend,
    Matthew

    Reply
    • 

      tsemtulku on Jan 28, 2015 at 6:52 am

      Dear Matthew, you really can think in a wide angle manner and also seem to have much gratitude. You can see a person from different angles. Meaning you don’t take one aspect of a person and make this one facet the all encompassing quality and that is good. You can say, I like this part and I don’t agree with that part. But I still can like a part and therefore this person. Also to say you have learned much and therefore you appreciate and wish the person well is really excellent. You have your mind under control.

      I am happy to read your sharing. Keep it up! 🙂 Tsem Rinpoche

      Reply
      • 

        dennis stobinski on Jan 30, 2015 at 7:16 pm

        I was very harsh in my criticism of rinpoche about this practice and see that this viewpoint is much closer to the one I should have.I apologize and will strive for a wider and more comprehensive outlook.

        Reply
73. 

    Steve Rogers on Jan 28, 2015 at 5:04 am

    Please can you tell us how you got the advice? Was it from HH Zong Rinpoche via meditation or an oracle, or from a living Guru?

    Reply
    • 

      tsemtulku on Jan 28, 2015 at 6:48 am

      It was through a living Guru. Kyabje Zong Rinpoche is my Root Guru and has passed. I have 14 other teachers of which some are still on this earth luckily and some very close to me that I have taken teachings from in the last 40 years. Tsem Rinpoche

      Reply
    • 

      fran on Feb 8, 2015 at 9:22 am

      The new incarnation of Zong Rinpoche follows HH the Dalai Lama’s advice and does not practice Shugden. So Tsem Tulku does not follow his main Guru or the Dalai Lama. Simple as that.

      Reply
      • 

        Pammy on Feb 16, 2015 at 2:40 pm

        Oo pray tell, Fran, where did you get your information from? Of course as a close student of zong rinpoche himself you would know whether zong rinpoche still practices Dorje Shugden or not. Of course you would be in the loop with zong rinpoche’s secret practices. of course

        Reply
74. 

    paolorossi4444 on Jan 28, 2015 at 3:00 am

    May no one be hurt and may everyone win-as You said.please continue to give Dharma Teachings for the benefit of all sentient beings till the end of samsara.
    Thanks
    paolo

    Reply
75. 

    herferra on Jan 28, 2015 at 1:56 am

    It is sad to see how things happen.
    Much talk of tantra, devotion to the guru …… then this unnecessary.
    Sorry. I feel lost an old friend.

    Reply
    • 

      Eno on Jan 28, 2015 at 5:48 pm

      You’re too sentimental, however, less than others on this forum. 🙂

      Reply
76. 

    cris katogiritis on Jan 28, 2015 at 1:04 am

    Thank you very much for kind words, good advice and sharing personal experience. I rejoice!

    Reply
77. 

    Low KHJB on Jan 28, 2015 at 12:11 am

    Thank you Tsem Rinpoche for your sincere sharing on your faith and your strong guru devotion.We are glad that we were so fortunate to be given a chance to share a practice that was only permitted to a selected few in the past.We trust the benefit of such practice as it is from a creditable linage of holy masters who hold their vows closely their entire lives.
    Thank you Tsem Rinpoche for your compassion and generosity to show us a path to practice dharma.Your guidance have help many to gain positive mind transformation through proper application of dharma practice thought.

    Reply
78. 

    Judy Chen on Jan 27, 2015 at 11:57 pm

    Dear Rinpoche,

    As a new student in dharma practice, your teachings and your guru devotion shows as a role model for the practice.

    With folded hands
    Thank you Rinpoche

    Reply
79. 

    Soon Huat (Penang) on Jan 27, 2015 at 11:36 pm

    Thank You Rinpoche for sharing this precious news with us. I will follow and practice what my Guru practising. In fact, my humble view, a lot of people focus on the wrong thing and bark to the wrong tree. We should focus on how well we can follow our Lama teaching and put them into practice to become a better person; to be more tolerant, more compassion and more kindness. Instead of arguing which protectors others are practising, protector is just mirror practice, we should focus on Dharma practice or teaching and our Guru is our source of Dharma teaching. We should follow His guidance closely and put them into practise to be better person. Remember our action reflects our Lama’s wisdom. Harming others is not right way to show how loyal we are to our Guru, in fact, it is disparaging our Guru.
    I have accepted Tsem Tulku Rinpoche as my Guru, I will follow His path closely without any doubt. Nothing will sway me away from His guidance. I will follow His advice to respect others (I personally like this middle way, it is mature way to treat others). We want harmony and do our Dharma practice our Guru given to us, I will not be pulled into conflict.

    Reply
80. 

    Grace Leu ( KHJB) on Jan 27, 2015 at 10:55 pm

    Tq Rinpoche for the sharing . I think the most important is since we have choose our Guru,we should keep the samaya clean by follow the Guru instructions . What I know is Rinpoche is my root Guru and I will follow him humbly , sincerely and with no doubts .

    Reply
81. 

    Pema Thinley on Jan 27, 2015 at 10:21 pm

    Dear Rinpoche.

    How lucky i am and others who have came across this beautiful dharma sharing to have karma to read this beautiful and flawless precious words of Rinpoche. Daily visit to your blog is like i am being able to connect to many enlightened beings through the teachings you and your kind students tirelessly and selflessly share and inspire the world. This teaching is so powerful and penetrates my mind breaking all my confusions and converging to the middle point. How wonderful it would be if all the people out there who are confused like me could come across such wisdom and understanding of the buddhist perspective.
    Thank you so much Rinpoche _/\_ for leading us through the darkest age and immeasurable samsara. May You Live Long To benefit many beings, My Lama _/\__/\__/\_

    Reply
82. 

    Gina on Jan 27, 2015 at 10:08 pm

    Dear Rinpoche,
    But how can we expect a balanced attitude from the Dalai Lama followers if the Dalai Lama instructs them to segregate Dorje Shugden’s followers?

    Reply
    • 

      Lawrence on Jan 27, 2015 at 10:21 pm

      There are good questions, bad questions and questions that are not answered. – kidding

      Reply
83. 

    Irene Lim on Jan 27, 2015 at 10:01 pm

    Practitioners have to do self introspection. If one goes on a rampage to hurt others by disparaging teachers with hatred and bitterness in vengeance using the Shugden conflict as tools to their end, then Dharma has not penetrated into their mind stream. What they create for themselves is negativities.

    I hope the Shugden conflict will resolve soon too so everyone can be in one happy Buddhist family and end the suffering of many Shugden Buddhists. There are too much disunity and disharmony in the Buddhist community with this conflict which can destroy the reputation of Buddhism as a peaceful religion and the image of the Tibetan leader who is an icon of peace.

    Reply
84. 

    Ee Mun on Jan 27, 2015 at 9:57 pm

    Dear Tsem Rinpoche,

    Thank you so much for another detailed and profound post pertaining to this long debated controversy in the spiritual arena.

    I’m truly moved and impressed with your courage, integrity and guru devotion as well as very profound Dharma knowledge and logical reasoning.

    This post is very insightful and helpful to a beginner like me who had unsettled doubts and concerns from time to time. Thank you Rinpoche.

    With folded hands,
    Ee Mun

    Reply
85. 

    Gina on Jan 27, 2015 at 9:44 pm

    Dear Rinpoche,
    I understand your desire for harmony but what to expect of the Dalai Lama followers if the Dalai Lama is the one who instruct them to segregate and chase after Dorje Shugden followers?

    Reply
86. 

    Ashlee on Jan 27, 2015 at 8:51 pm

    Buddhism is about following the true lineage passed down from Buddha Shakyamuni to his disciples and i personally find that Buddhist teachings are very logical hence i continue to learn and practice it by following my Guru, Tsem Tulku Rinpoche. If Dorje Shugden is an enlightened protector practices by high lamas such as Trijang Rinpoche, Zong Rinpoche and passed down to Tsem Rinpoche, how can they be doing the wrong practice? After all, Dorje Shugden is an “Enlightened Protector” and not just any normal worldly protector. Enlightened protector are suppose to help excel our Dharma practice and help us clear away our Dharma obstacles in this degenerate age. Logically speaking, then how can an enlightened protector bring harm to us or even help us to harm others? Also how can an enlightened being harm another enlightened being? That is illogical.Each of us bring with us imprints from previous lives and for some of us, we do have strong affinity with Dorje Shugden due to our practices from previous lives. I personally am very drawn to Dorje Shugden protector’s practice. Ever since I become a student of Rinpoche since 10 years ago, i’ve seen positive transformation in myself. Hence I have full trust & respect towards my Lama and it’s good enough for my Lama and his root Gurus and other high lamas to practice it, i think i can safely practice it without any doubt and at the same time still respect H.H. Dalai Lama. Thank you Rinpoche for speaking up.

    Reply
87. 

    Wylfred Ng on Jan 27, 2015 at 8:34 pm

    Dear Rinpoche

    I always believe that every sentient beings are equal, no one is superior than others because of the gender, color, religion, or practice.

    I am proud of myself and grateful to be accepted by Rinpoche as your student, with pure lineage from Lama Tsongkhapa.

    Thank you.
    With Folded Hand
    Wylfred

    Reply
88. 

    Laura Oliveira on Jan 27, 2015 at 8:29 pm

    FANTASTIC answer to what is happening with DS practice. Thank you. Faithful in dharma.
    We are victorious, now and forever !

    Reply
89. 

    Pastor Jean Ai on Jan 27, 2015 at 8:27 pm

    What I found most inspirational about this post is Rinpoche’s method of approaching the Protector practice. I find it practical and logical, yet fulfilling all the vows and commitments that Rinpoche holds. In fact, Rinpoche’s approach is in itself spiritual practice. Why? Because the point of our practice is to eradicate a dualistic point-of-view, and that is how Rinpoche approaches the Dorje Shugden ‘issue’.

    It is the most practical method because yes, Dorje Shugden is an issue now. But what happens if, let’s say, Pelden Lhamo becomes an issue tomorrow? As humans with delusions, we can (and will!) make an issue out of anything so in actuality, nothing is beyond our reproach.

    So going back to Pelden Lhamo. If suddenly tomorrow Dorje Shugden became okay, but Pelden Lhamo was rejected, for Rinpoche the approach will be the same, regardless of the victim/issue du jour – keep the practice AND respect the person who is rejecting it. But what about the rest of us? Pelden Lhamo practitioners will be up in arms; people against Pelden Lhamo’s practice will also be up in arms.

    In the meantime, Rinpoche rises about the melee and maintains a STEADY, Middle Way view of Pelden Lhamo.

    Ultimately therefore, this Middle Way method of approaching Shugden practice is the reason why Rinpoche’s practice is so stable and ours is not. Externally-arising obstacles will not shake or affect Rinpoche’s practice, because the motivation, approach and therefore stability comes from within.

    Reply
    • 

      kengpa lama on Feb 12, 2015 at 5:18 pm

      you said good to every viewers. so thank you lot.

      Reply
90. 

    Joel on Jan 27, 2015 at 8:18 pm

    Dear Tsem Rinpoche,

    Your overwhelming devotion to your spiritual guide is such an inspiration for us. May we all gain such a powerful mind and be empowered to fulfill the wishes of ourselves and others. Thank you.

    Reply
91. 

    Lawrence on Jan 27, 2015 at 8:03 pm

    Devas are more fortunate than human beings as far as sensual pleasures are concerned. They also possess certain powers which human beings usually lack. However, the powers of these deities are limited because they are also transitory beings. They exist in happy abodes and enjoy their life for a longer period than human beings do. When they have exhausted all the good kamma, that they have gathered during previous birth, these deities pass away and are reborn somewhere else according to their good and bad kamma. According to the Buddha, human beings have more opportunities to accrue merits to be born in a better condition, and the deities have less chances in this respect.

    Buddhist do not attribute any specific importance to such gods. They do not regard the deities as a support for the moral development or as a support for the attainment of salvation of Nibbana. Whether they are great or small, both human beings and deities are perishable.

    Buddha stated that it is impossible to eliminate other people’s suffering and problems as though you were pulling a thorn from their foot. The only thing you can do is to show the way for people themselves to overcome their own suffering. This is a very important point when looking at the issue of fear and protection. Basically, nobody can eliminate our fear for us. They might be able to provide a calming atmosphere, but it really is up to us to overcome our own fears. This is the basic approach in Buddhism. Buddhism doesn’t assert any sort of omnipotent force in a Buddha, in a Dharma-protector or in anybody else that can just save us from the dangers we face, like with a snap of the fingers.

    It is a common belief amongst the Buddhist public that such deities can be influenced to grant their favours by transferring merits to them whenever meritorious deeds are performed. This belief is based on the Buddha’s injunction to the deities to protect those human beings who lead a religious way of life. This is the reason why Buddhists transfer the merits to such deities or remember them whenever they do some meritorious deeds. However, making of offerings to and worshipping such deities are not encouraged, although some Buddhist customs center around such activities. When people are in great difficulties, they naturally turn to the deities to express their grievances in a place of worship. By doing this, they gain some relief and consolation; in their hearts, they feel much better. However, to an intellectual who has strong will power, sound education and understanding, such beliefs and actions need not be resorted to. There is definitely no Teaching in Buddhism to the effect that Buddhists can attain Nibbana by praying to any deity. Buddhists believe that ‘purity and impurity depend on oneself. No one from outside can purify another.’ (Dhammapada 165)

    Buddhahood and Nibbana can be attained without any help from an external source. Therefore, Buddhists can practise their religion with or without the deities.

    Reply
    • 

      Nico on Jan 29, 2015 at 1:48 pm

      Thank you very much for the reminder, Lawrence. It now makes it clearer for me on how to choose my path in this humble journey…

      Reply
92. 

    joshua on Jan 27, 2015 at 7:14 pm

    Dear Rinpoche,
    As far as i am concern, whether DS practitionars or not, you speak the same dharma as what the Buddha has taught. People get the benefits, which is most important. It doesnt matter what others say as long as our motivation is correct. Thank you Rinpoche.

    Reply
93. 

    Jacinta Goh on Jan 27, 2015 at 6:44 pm

    Dear Rinpoche,

    This article instilled my faith in Rinpoche and Kechara as a whole. I couldn’t have imagined how hard it must have been for Rinpoche in all these years. The heart must have been torn in between keeping up the practices and its commitment while on the other hand, taking in the criticism, negatives views and etc. In this case, Rinpoche has shown exceptional example of Great Guru Devotion! The Eight Verses of Thought Transformation is not a mere knowledge, it can be achieved and in this case, Rinpoche has shown it to us.

    Yidam and Protector practices are indeed secret practices and cannot be revealed. Hence, Rinpoche and other Gurus should not be blamed for this. Besides, true spirituality should lead to more tolerance, kindness and compassion and not hatred, jealousy and anger. We really have to examine ourselves on why we practice Dharma in the first place. Instead of making the matter worst, why don’t just sit down and talk? H.H. Dalai Lama always promotes dialogue and only through dialogue, we can have peace. Perhaps it’s time to have dialogues among the High Lamas?

    I really hope Rinpoche wish be fulfilled whereby this matter comes to an end soon. Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this truthful thoughts of Yours.

    For as long as the space remains,
    For as long as sentient beings remain,
    Until then, may I too remain,
    To dispel the miseries of the world.

    Reply
94. 

    abby foo on Jan 27, 2015 at 6:43 pm

    Dear Tsem Rinpoche,

    Thank you for this beautiful article, it helps me to really understand what spirituality is about, what Dharma practice is about.

    Now I understand, spirituality is NEVER about how great my practice, my Guru, my lineage are. Spirituality is NOT a competition of I am better than you or I am the best, spirituality is NEVER about right or wrong, higher or lower, bad or good. All these are what make us bitter and unhappy, and are the reasons why we came to seek spirituality because we know deep down inside we should be someone with a more opened heart that accepts and tolerates. Why putting ourselves back to the bitter situation again when we are in spiritual?

    Then what is spirituality? From Rinpoche’s actions and teachings, I know loyalty IS spirituality. Humble, tolerance, respect, understanding, keeping promises and being kind are spirituality no matter what you practice, no matter what is your religion/belief. All the qualities above have nothing to do with what your religion/belief are, but how you act, speak and think determine if you are a spiritual person.

    Those who don’t like Dorje Shugden, why keep condemning people over and over? Why speaks against it over and over? If you think you going to stop people from getting ‘harm’ because Dorje Shugden is bad, your intention is to stop harm, but why end up you actually CREATING HARM everytime you speak against Dorje Shugden and put those who practice it down??? If your intention is pure and kind, then the results should be pure and kind too, but obviously you are hurting people’s belief and emotions, and you show no respect to people.

    If we really want to practice spirituality, then from this moment onward, show that you are a good student of your Lama by practicing Dharma. Dharma NEVER teaches us to put people down, to criticize others. So please respect and be considerate. I wish the Dorje Shugden issue can be resolved soon in a peaceful way. Everyone deserves peace, respect and love. 🙂

    Reply
95. 

    SP Chua on Jan 27, 2015 at 6:12 pm

    Dear Rinpoche
    I feel extremely very very happy after read this post, I read over and over and over again a few times… and it make me want to cry!! I can only said I am the Luckiest “being” in this earth that I meet Rinpoche in this life.
    with greatest respect and gratitude /\

    Reply
96. 

    Lum Kok Luen on Jan 27, 2015 at 5:27 pm

    Dear Rinpoche,
    I am awed, amazed and overwhelmed by your wisdom. This wisdom cannot be obtained but only through complete guru devotion. You have set a perfect example for us to emulate and through guru devotion, we get enlightenment.

    The path now is very clear. We know how to move. Lojong and Lam Rim is our guiding lamp and through guru devotion, we will achieve our spiritual path.

    Reply
    • 

      tsemtulku on Jan 27, 2015 at 5:35 pm

      Dear Lum Kok Luen,

      Thank you for your sharing. I am so glad you visit this space to learn dharma. I am not the best dharma teacher, but I try my best.

      Yes, the path has always been clear for me. Lojong and Lam Rim practice are what will help us overcome our harmful habituations of lifetimes. By changing our habituations, we change our mind and future. It’s all in our hands. Buddha is the greatest teacher but we have to aspire to be good students. I do aspire. 🙂

      I do the best I can daily and put my complete faith in the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha. I watch my karma and my mind daily. That is the best I can do. I try my best to serve others and develop compassion, great compassion and eventually bodhicitta which is my goal.

      I request you to study more on dharma and apply. You will see dharma’s magnificence! You will be blessed. Good luck!!

      Tsem Rinpoche

      Reply
97. 

    tsemtulku on Jan 27, 2015 at 5:09 pm

    When we find kind people,
    We appreciate them,
    When we find difficult people,
    We find ways to forgive them,
    When we find sad people,
    We find ways to uplift them,
    When we find people without hope,
    We find a way to give them light,
    By doing this tirelessly,
    We find our true selves.~Tsem Tulku Rinpoche

    Reply
    • 

      Lum Kok Luen on Jan 27, 2015 at 5:29 pm

      Thank you Rinpoche. These words are so simple and yet, we often lose ourselves. Thank you for this wonderful teaching

      Reply
98. 

    Lester on Jan 27, 2015 at 4:54 pm

    Dear Tsem Rinpoche,while I am not your student, you have my highest respect. Your guru devotion is impeccable. That is enough for me to see you as my role model. Whether it is DS or not, it doesn’t matter so long as we have fulfilled our roles as students. While not taking side on this issue, I have this nagging feeling in me that the Gelugpa practice is not “whole” in some way. Now that you are open and supportive about DS, I guess the path before us is now very clear and we should go all the way. With gratitude and reverence. /\

    Reply
    • 

      tsemtulku on Jan 27, 2015 at 5:00 pm

      Dear Lester,

      Thank you for your kind, honest and intelligent sharing. Dorje Shugden does not matter but what matters is following our teachers all the way. No other teacher no matter how famous and powerful may override the instructions our personal teacher(s) have given us. This is the root practice of the higher instructions of Buddhism. Without guru devotion gaining higher insight is difficult. We all wish this conflict to end amicably soon.

      May you reach your spiritual journey soon. Tsem Rinpoche

      Reply
      • 

        Lester on Jan 27, 2015 at 6:20 pm

        Dear Rinpoche, thank you for the kind reply. (I almost missed coming back to this thread because there isn’t any automated reminder of sort to tell contributors that they have been responded to). I am a sinful being throwing in my last ounce to be a better Buddhist. I wish you good health and long life. I wish I have the good fortune to meet you in person and hopefully be received as a student. I will help the holy disciples of Kechara and MBF in my limited capacity. With gratitude!

        Reply
    • 

      R. Philippe on Jan 30, 2015 at 11:33 pm

      Dear Tsem Tulku,
      Your words seem to be filled With wisdom and respect and for that only reason, Even as a student of a Great lama whoo does not practice Shugden, I bowl respectfully to you and wish that your prayers for peace and better understanding succeed! I am also tired of these “bad discours” from both sides! (And here… I am not saying that yours is bad! 🙂
      With profound respect
      R. Philippe

      Reply