81 Responses to The Importance of Tibet Befriending China

1. 

   Samfoonheei on Feb 26, 2020 at 3:55 pm

   Many countries around the world have looking and working with China. They realised being friendly with China is a wise choice for the benefits for the growth of their country. China has become world largest economy country. For Tibet befriending China in long term will benefits both countries. Time had changed with Tibet having workshops with the Chinese is a good sign improving their relationship after all these years . People have their right and freedom to choose what they practice. Practicing Dorje Shugden is nothing to do with China. Every one of us have the right and freedom to choose what we want to practice. HH Dalai Lama is looking forward to return to Tibet one day. It only can be happen if the Tibetan leadership, letting go of the past and have more dialogues and meetings with the Chinese government in future. And solving all the political problems and lifting Dorje Shugden’s ban once for all.
   Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this great news.

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2. 

   nicholas on Aug 24, 2019 at 3:27 pm

   China is so influential in the world now. Many countries would want or already working closely with. China not only investing in monetary but also materials and other resources. We can see clearly China is not in the mode of military war to conquer but using economy influential to work with other country for growth. Due to such influential many countries closed their door to Dalai Lama and no one dare to go against China. Hence, this directly affect the sponsorship to the Tibetan. Time has changed and CTA has to change their way to work around. America may sound supportive to Tibetan but this is just to irk China and due to the economy is not doing well, America will not support much in term of financial to Tibetan.

   Since His Holiness Dalai Lama had mentioned that he wants to stay under China, then CTA should work accordingly to be friend with China. No other country will help Tibetan and the only door for CTA to knock for help is the Chinese. CTA should strategies their way to work out with China. CTA must get into the Chinese good book to make their way to talk to the Chinese to allow His Holiness and Tibetan to return to Tibet.

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3. 

   Chris on Aug 18, 2019 at 5:20 pm

   China is one of the most powerful countries in the world nowadays and many countries had chosen to be in China’s good books. It is only a matter of time where all the Tibetan government’s supporter will stop supporting them and be on China’s side.

   Let’s face it. The struggle for Tibet’s independence has been on-going for 60 years but there is no progress at all. Now, even His Holiness the Dalai Lama is telling the Tibetans to go for Umaylam instead of Rangzen. However, Umaylam requires their cooperation with the Chinese government.

   It is good for Tibetans or Tibetan government to befriend China because they will need their mercy to get back to Tibet because China has all the reasons for not letting the Tibetans go back to Tibet. They certainly do not need Tibetans.

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4. 

   Samfoonheei on Jul 18, 2019 at 4:15 pm

   Over the past 40 years, China have gone from traditional dynastic structure by passing a number of countries to become world powerful nation . China, under the powerful leadership , China may overtake the United States soon or later in trade , economy , technology and so forth. China is seen as harbouring the ambition to play a bigger and more important role on the world stage . China’s economic expansion and diplomatic have influence countries to befriend China and looking forward to China for help in the economic growth. Time has changed and finally the Tibetans leadership has made the right choice to befriend China. Tibet and China’s friendship in long term will surely benefits both sides. Having a dialogue ,mutual understanding and respect will be good for them for the growth of their country and benefit of their people. The Department of Information and International Relations (DIIR) holds the first workshop to enhance Chinese Outreach Campaign is a good beginning for both countries. HH Dalai Lama and many more Tibetans are looking forward to return to Tibet one day. It only can be materialised with the Tibetan leadership having more dialogues and meetings with the Chinese government to solve all the political problems and Dorje Shugden controversy.
   May the Dorje Shugden issue soon be dissolved for the sake of peace and harmony.
   Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this great news.

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5. 

   nicholas on Jul 18, 2019 at 1:47 pm

   At this time, China has made itself very important and prominent in the world economic growth. Majority of the countries not only want to befriend China but also to work with them to boost their individual economic growth in their country. Look at how by working with China it helps the individual country. This is what China can do for you and how influential China can be. After China open his door it doesn’t stop there and instead, China keeps improving themselves come to today where most of the country would want China to invest or work with them. China has developed itself to a point that they can provide money, technology and all sort of resources that would help them.

   Look at how China become favorites in the world. With this, do you think any countries will support Dalai Lama and go against China? If not then even Tibetan leadership should befriend China. Why? The only way for Tibetan to return home is to talk through it with China. No one will want to talk on behalf of Tibetan, to support them as it will affect the relationship with China. Tibetan leadership have to take this opportunity before it’s too late such as HH Holiness the 14th Dala Lama passes away.

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6. 

   Pastor Shin Tan on Dec 9, 2018 at 8:05 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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7. 

   Tsem Rinpoche on Nov 27, 2018 at 6:55 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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8. 

   Tsem Rinpoche on Nov 23, 2018 at 6:48 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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9. 

   Pastor Adeline Woon on Sep 24, 2018 at 2:56 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
10. 

    Joy Kam on Aug 13, 2018 at 1:19 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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11. 

    Edward Ooi on Aug 10, 2018 at 6:20 am

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    *Stand not included

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

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12. 

    Pastor Adeline Woon on Jul 25, 2018 at 7:28 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 21, 2018 at 2:19 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. 

    callista on Jul 15, 2018 at 12:06 am

    This is a good start to Holds First Workshop to Enhance Chinese Outreach Campaign in Dharamshala.

    It would be better to be friend with China rather than denial. After all, Tibet is already part of China. Looking at the bigger picture, if the conflicts can be resolved earlier and CTA does not use Dorje Shugden practice as a lame excuse to cover up mismanagement , this will definitely bring benefit to the Tibetan.

    I pray that the CTA will do something good for the Tibetan

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15. 

    Samfoonheei on May 21, 2018 at 1:30 pm

    Great news for Tibet befriending China. Time has changed and finally the Tibetans leadership has made the right choice to amend ties between the two countries. China has transformed itself becoming the largest economy in the world in no time. The world economy is rapidly changing, China’s economy will become more significant and will surpass America soon. Many countries in the world is making friend with China. With this meeting Tibet and China’s friendship in long term will benefits both sides. In time may HH Dalai Lama have dialogue with China to solved the controversy on the Dorje Shugden ban for the benefits of the people . Dorje Shugden has nothing to do with China. Because of the Tibetan Leadership political agenda, many has suffered and divided. Its more than a year since the workshops ,nothing has improved. Do hope both countries friendship will continue to pave way for more meetings. May HH Dalai Lama then solve the long controversy.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

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16. 

    Pastor Antoinette Kass on Apr 8, 2018 at 10:58 pm

    H.E. the 25th Tsem Tulku Rinpoche is giving a solution which is most logical. There must be a dialogue so that mutual understanding and respect can grow and ways can be found to preserve the precious Tibetan Buddhist culture.

    It has been so long and there are so many Tibetans in Tibet who need the support of the Dalai Lama and their people. There is no way that by insulting them and calling the Chinese people and government evil, that anything positive can result from this.

    I deeply hope that there will be a swift positive resolution of this conflict.

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17. 

    Valentina Suhendra on Oct 22, 2017 at 8:42 pm

    Great message every Tibetan especially must read!

    

    

    

    

    

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18. 

    Lim Han Nee on Oct 20, 2017 at 3:28 pm

    So far, the CTA has displayed nothing but a belligerent attitude towards the Chinese . This can be seen in their refusal to engage in talks or negotiations with the Chinese, as well as in labelling all Shugden practitioners and others who do not follow Dalai Lama’s instructions or disagree with or criticise the Dalai Lama or them as Chinese agents and as being funded by the Chinese.

    Hence, it came as a surprise to see them organising a workshop to enhance its Chinese outreach campaign, suggesting that more workshops and related activities were in the pipeline. Yet almost a year has passed since this workshop. Nothing has dveloped but more negative criticism and blaming of the Chinese, especially after each self-immolation by a Free Tibet fighter.

    After studying Mr Shenpenn’s profoundly beautiful speech in –
    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/mr-shenpenn-khymsar-speaks-with-so-much-wisdom.html

    – I now see a true Tibetan for what he is, through Mr Shenpenn’s eyes.

    A true Tibetan is one who truly cares for all Tibetans’ and Tibet’s future and well-being.
    If CTA were true Tibetans, Tibetans would now be back home in an autonomous Tibet, because the CTA(in the last 60 years in exile) would have already successfully negotiated it. They would all be back there as one, united in their love for Tibet and one another to be able to transcend religious and other differences.

    Great Lamas, like Tsem Rinpoche, are tireless and fearless in spreading this message of love and care for all, including Tibetans.

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19. 

    MartinC on Feb 9, 2017 at 2:56 am

    For longest time, people who have been misled have wrongly accused Dorje Shugden practitioners and have hated blindly without understanding the real issue. Therefore it is very refreshing to see this comment by Suzy in Rinpoche’s YouTube channel [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vl-4lIwxph4&t=11s] in which she eloquently expressed how her mind shifted about Dorje Shugden after learning more about the Protector.

    

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20. 

    Fong on Dec 10, 2016 at 12:28 pm

    The only way forward for both parties is to have a dialogue as the the Dalai Lama has always advocated. SO, this is a very good start. If they are serious about mending the fence they should also stop the negative rhetoric against China and work out a middle way to solving this issue.

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21. 

    Marek on Dec 9, 2016 at 12:51 am

    Germany invaded Poland in WW2, now they are doing everything they can to have a good relationship, previous German leaders having apologised profusely to Poland and other nations, as well as investing heavily as reparations for WW2. My parents are Polish, so that is why this is of particular significance to me. Chairman Mao is dead, what he did can’t be reversed, Tibetan society was medieval before 1959 – now Tibet has more schools and hospitals than it did before 1959 – many Tibetans inside China have prospered due to farming cordyceps, whereas the Tibetans outside China have a better quality of life than they would have done had they remained in Tibet – this is similar to how the USA is doing everything it can to help Native Americans/The First Nations preserve their culture, giving them special permission for casinos, educational/social grants/loans, in an attempt to make up for the massacre/holocaust imposed on them, also similar to how the Australian government is trying to help the aborigines to make up for how they were treated when Australia was first colonised, same in New Zealand and with the Maoris, and how much the British Government did to attempt to foster good relations with the nations it formerly colonised/enslaved – many people of all nations and ethnicities live in Australia/NZ/USA/UK, everybody is becoming multi ethnic and multi lingual, there is not a slave who doesn’t have a king as an ancestor, there isn’t a king who doesn’t have a slave as an ancestor – “I am descended from such and such an Emperor/Pharaoh/Genius” (and from what’s untraceable – also descended from prostitutes, undesirables,criminals and untouchables) I have met plenty alleged Lamas and Tulkus – the alleged 5th reincarnation of this throneholder, the alleged 16th reincarnation of another luminary – like Tsem Rinpoche says elsewhere – people’s titles and alleged credentials don’t matter half as much as their actions and example they set for others.

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22. 

    Khoo Hou Haw on Dec 8, 2016 at 10:06 am

    This is a great news for the Tibetans in Dharamshara. Many coutries around the world had realized that being friendly with China is a wise decision for the growth of their country and benefit of their people. It is great that Dharamshara has realized this fact as well. Anyway, simply made up an excuse to accuse China doesn’t seem like a wise move for a leadership. It brings no benefit to anyone.

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23. 

    julia Tan on Dec 8, 2016 at 8:18 am

    As a Buddhist or not, i am sure we all chose to see the bright side of the world everyday. I think that’s also one of the principle reason why we like to make light offering to Buddha and Gods. We pray for world peace, no sufferings, no disaster, harmony. We want to live our life with compassion everyday, that’s one of the Buddhists principle practices.

    No matter what had happened before to Tibet and China, the same situation had happened to many countries for the last thousands of years. The earth is turning, we were taught and learn how to let go and move in life for the sake of the future of our next generations. Hence i am very happy to know about the effort of DIIR holding the first workshop dedicated to enhance Chinese Outreach Campaign so that Tibetans learning why do Tibetans need to reach out to Chinese, the level of coordination required with Chinese nationals, and how to reach out to Chinese nationals. I rejoice for Tibetans as they are heading to direction of creating the course of world peace for their people and the world.

    I hope this open mind act will come to success, and Dorje Shugden practice issues of being blamed for the failure of Tibet course will dissolved soon. I hope CTA sees the important of the unity of all Tibetans as a whole instead of going against Dorje Shugden practitioners for political reasons. Going against Dorje Shugden practitioners is very unnecessary and waste of time and resources because this will only cut down the spirit of unity for Tibet. All Tibetans should work together to preserve love, harmony and unity for sake of Tibet’s children.

    Reply
24. 

    Pastor Chia on Dec 8, 2016 at 8:13 am

    China has become world largest economy country is undeniable now.It benefit small countries in Asia to growing and many counties are making friends with China. Since Tibet exile government has been at India over 50, is nothing they can do but always criticise people who close with China to anti His Holiness Dalai Lama. In reality, China government has help Tibetan develop much more in economy in Tibet itself,building monastery according tibetan people believe. Will be good Tibetan exile government to repair their relationship with China now,instate to promote hatred toward China by using Dorje Shugden ban. Practising Dorje Shugden is nothing to do with China. People have their right and freedom to choose what they believe and practice. With all the respect to His Holiness 14 Dalai Lama, people are not anti his wishes but always see him as the spiritual leader but not the politician.

    Reply
25. 

    Pastor Antoinette on Dec 8, 2016 at 7:59 am

    I agree that after such a long time, the chances to get Tibet back are extremely small. Tibet is a part of China now. The Tibetans are suffering and by becoming friends with the Chinese Government, the Tibetans can have better conditions and may preserve their culture and ways of life. By saying negative words against Chinese Government it will only increase tensions and not helping the Tibetans in Tibet in any way as it seems.

    I hope that the workshops to enhance Chinese Outreach campaign will grow and that the Tibetans and Chinese can improve their relationship and be friends with China as there is no way out after so many years.

    Reply
26. 

    Andrea Lai on Dec 8, 2016 at 7:40 am

    Good to know that at last the Tibetan are willing to have discussion with China. It’s a new hope not only for Shugden’s ban lift but whole nation to know this conflict end in a fair manner.
    I pray the Tibetan Leadership will reconsider of their people sufferings,befriend with China and work together to build up this country in harmony.

    Reply
27. 

    Mingwen on Dec 8, 2016 at 7:09 am

    Great news!May China & Tibet get along well and hold hands to work and benefit their people. Shame to say, whenever there are people, there will be conflicts. Hence, when conflicts arise, we should immediately search for the root of the conflict and solve it by putting our egos down.

    Reply
28. 

    Pastor Albert on Dec 8, 2016 at 2:21 am

    China has taken over Tibet, it has already been so many years, and if Tibetan government is really working for the benefit of their citizen, they should have work closely with China harmoniously and do their best to restore Tibet as a great country.

    What Rinpoche said in the video is very true, no matter how much we gain, in 20 years time, 30 years time, or 50 years later, all of us would have left the world, so why create so much harm to the people around? As a citizen of Tibet, all they want is to live their life peacefully, no one want to be in war. So if CTA still create conflict with China due to whatever reason, the Tibetan citizen will never live in peace, causing so much pain to the citizen, is this really worth it?

    Many countries has already be friend with China, BIG countries like UK, USA, France, Russia and many more who are doing great and developing their country well, and yet, they still work together with China to grow their country even better. So if these countries are going this path, why should Tibet go otherwise?

    Dorje Shugden has nothing to do with China, it is only a deity that is practicing inside China, but besides China, Dorje Shugden also been practiced by the people around the world, then why don’t CTA go against all the countries, why only pick China? just because China has took over Tibet and now the government holding grudges towards China? This doesn’t make sense at all, and in my personal opinion, if the CTA really think this way, they want to attack China due to this, they are too shallow to take care the country well.. Tibet and Tibetans deserved to be better.

    People who practice Dorje Shugden as their belief, their faith, they should have the freedom to practice any deity they want without being criticized or being attacked. If they want to attack Dorje Shugden’s practitioners, then by right, they should be attacking Avalokitesvhara and Amitabhe’s practitioners as well, because Avalokitesvhara and Amitabha Buddha is also widely practiced in China, practiced by the Chinese, and the chinese from all around the world, so again, why picked only Dorje Shugden?

    I mean no offence to anyone, but I really hope Tibetan government understand what they should do to bring best benefit to the Tibetans and not for their own benefit only.

    Spiritual and Politics does not mix and they should not mix, Spiritual is SPiritual, Politic is Politic, they are different in nature. Rinpoche has another article explain very well the difference between Spiritual and Secular, read here for more:
    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/are-you-secular-or-spiritual.html

    Reply
29. 

    June Kang on Dec 8, 2016 at 2:19 am

    China will become the world’s largest economy and it was so obvious that many countries in the world is making friend with China.

    However for the past 50 years,if any Tibetan who makes relationships with Chinese nationals and China’s leadership, Tibetan leadership will say they are anti Dalai Lama , and now “DIIR Holds First Workshop to Enhance Chinese Outreach Campaign”. I am very curious, what make them change? They should be firm of what they are fighting for for the last 50 years just like they are firm on anti Dorje Shugden Practitioners. I guess that they may not get any financial aid from the western if they still criticize China because almost the whole world is trying to have good relationship with China.

    I wonder that if the whole world support Dorje Shugden Practitioners, will Tibetan Government still ban it?

    For the past 50 years, I can’t see any great thing that Tibetan Government have done for the Tibetan and Tibet refugee in India, they rather spend money and time to attack Dorje Shugden practitioners such like CTA published on its official website, a list of Dorje Shugden Practitioners complete with faces, names, personal details and addresses whom the CTA has arbitrarily identified as traitors to the public at large. And it is very obvious that the Dorje Shugden ban has brought so many negative things to the Tibetan such like separation of the family & monasteries, suffering among the Dorje Shugden Practitioners & etc. The question is why Tibetan leadership was doing all these to own peoples which seen like doesn’t make sense. The only things I can think of are all about politics and selfishness.

    However it would not be too late for them to make friend with China. I pray for you Tibetan Leadership to be successful to bring benefits to your peoples in all the future undertaking.

    Reply
30. 

    Eric kksiow on Dec 8, 2016 at 12:29 am

    That is the key point (laughter). My stand until now is that I want to make clear that Tibet is a separate country from China. But the future is open and there are three different options. Regarding options, there is still a lot to be worked out, so I do not feel that I should reveal too much at this moment. At the moment, my position is that I do not want to break my links with the Chinese Government, at the same time I cannot discuss certain things that may discourage the Tibetan will and determination. I am thinking that eventually some sort of referendum among the Tibetans should be carried out. Then try to get some suggestions and thoughts of what the Tibetans really feel. I also want to get as many views of the Tibetans inside Tibet. At the same time, I do not want people to blindly follow my choice. I want people’s real feelings. I do not want to be imposing my will on the people. In 1963, I made a draft Constitution and made it clear that the power of the Dalai Lama can be changed with a two-thirds majority of the National Assembly. So now, I really want to listen to the people’s ideas. I prefer to make a number of options which I feel are possible, and to present them to the Tibetan people and listen to their wishes. It is my responsibility for the possibilities and the difficulties. This is my plan. In the near future, I think things will become clearer.

    Reply
31. 

    Jace Chong on Dec 8, 2016 at 12:28 am

    Thanks Rinpoche and the blog team for the article.

    Personally I think it’s a great move to have workshop to enhance Chinese outreach by the Central Tibetan Government and I agree what Rinpoche said here very much, that to accept what has happened is history, the importance is what we should do NOW to benefit all sides.

    Like what His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama always say, the world is one family and with dialogue and more communication, we create harmony and world peace. Looks like this the workshop is one of the attempt to go for the direction of what Dalai Lama preaches.It’s important to befriend for the benefits of all Tibetan refugees.

    Thank you.

    Reply
32. 

    nicholas on Dec 8, 2016 at 12:24 am

    This workshop to enhance Chinese outreach campaign should have done earlier. By keep asking for freedom with negative message from the Tibetan government to the Chinese will not help in anyway. Sorry to say what had happened is a fact and nothing can be change if it could it already happen and don’t have to wait after 50 years. Furthermore in this 50 years we have not seen how Tibetan leaders have done anything practical to turn the situation around but just keep creating enemy. Fund given to them had been pour down to attack other Tibetan in religious matter which is totally a waste and instead of separating Dorje Shugden practitioners they should have unite all of them regardless of their different belief. A successful country will give freedom for their people. Look at our fingers which have different length and size from the same hand but we didn’t chop them of to make them same right? What important is even though there are different but still able to cooperate to work together.

    The hypocrite attitude screaming for their country freedom but at the other side discriminate religious freedom for their own people should stop immediately.
    It’s time for Tibetan leaders realise what is reality and what need to be done. Mending back the relationship is important for Tibetans future if they are really concern for their people. Befriended with China is not about Tibetan leaders but for all Tibetan future. We hope to see the Tibetan leaders also take the same step to mend the relationship with Dorje Shugden practitioners as they have done nothing wrong but just having strong faith in their spiritual practice.

    Reply
33. 

    pammie yap on Dec 7, 2016 at 11:44 pm

    I truly agree. After 50 years of friendship with, I don’t see CTA doing anything collected from the aids, to improve much for the Tibetan refugees. As a government, shouldn’t Tibetans be top priority?
    Personally IMO, instead of ‘angering’ China more, CTA should be looking for ways to improve the relationship. How does angering and irritating China actually help the situation?
    Having the workshop is indeed a good start towards mending the relationship. How can CTA, on one hand ask for a dialogue and on the other hand, keep sending negative remarks? How does that work?
    For example, just because we practice Dorje Shugden, we are branded Chinese spies. Where does the word ‘Chinese spies’ come from? What has religion to do with politics? If CTA is ‘really’ keen on mending the relationship, they should come up with ways to stop anti DS practitioners saying such things and avoid further ‘damage’. Until that is so, CTA, please stop talking about human rights, when you don’t even practice it.

    Reply
34. 

    Adeline Tan on Dec 6, 2016 at 1:47 am

    Tibet is part of China for sure,no other countries will recognise Tibet as a country even though the CTA in exile without a country tried to fight for independent and self rule for the last 50 years. All the problems they are having now can only be solved by having dialogues with all the parties involved including the practice of Dorje Shudgen issue.
    It is high time for the Tibetan to befriend China and work together to develop Tibet to benefit the people and hopefully one day the Tibetan people and the Chines people can work and live together harmoniously .

    Reply
35. 

    Carmen Koo on Nov 28, 2016 at 9:10 pm

    Under China’s ruling, we have seen Tibet flourish. Infrastructure has dramatically improved, and tourism has also been boosted in Tibet. After losing its independence, Tibet has only gotten better and better, and placed itself on the international map for tourism.

    I haven’t seen the exile leadership have proper plans for growth and development for Tibetans around the world, or in Tibet alone. The funds received worldwide through foreign aid, help and donations are not borne to benefit its people. And now, making friends with China after years of going against them, I wonder what the exile leadership wants out of this relationship.

    But on the other hand, how much longer does the Tibetan leadership want to go against the might of China, which will benefit nobody? As China gets more powerful in its economic ties and investments worldwide, people will soon forget the occupation of Tibet, and will move towards developing with China.

    The exile leadership, on one hand, holds a workshop on how to foster ties with China, but on the other hand, continue to use Dorje Shugden to divide its people, into choosing being a pro Tibetan/HHDL supporter or anti. If you are a DS practitioner, then you are with China, if you are not, then you are with HHDL/Tibet.

    Only recently, I saw a published video on line by the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), condemning the practice of Dorje Shugden and its practitioners for maligning the name of His Holiness Dalai Lama. They had published a book against Dorje Shugden and I for one, am sure that in my few years of practice of Dorje Shugden, have done nothing to that effect in maligning HHDL’s name.

    Now what is wrong with this, is that the governing body in exile has turned to publishing a book on the practice of a Buddhist deity, Dorje Shugden, and placed the blame on a divine interference for their own inability in succeeding to unite and harmonise its people thus far. That being one of the reasons that resulted in the publication of the book and documentary film, the latest releases of the CTA has only further caused segregation amongst its people. Tibetans are split between practicing Dorje Shugden practice or not, and by releasing this book and video, the Central Tibetan Administration have totally denied the feelings and religious freedom of this entire faction of its population.

    It is ironic that the fundamental accusations made against the practice of Dorje Shugden, that its practice “…disrupt the harmony of the Tibetan people” – Ms Tenzin Dhardon Sharling, Secretary of the Department of Information and International Relations, is the very reason they are releasing this book and film. By doing so, they have only served to further divide their own people, so the release of the book and video is clearly NOT intended to unite its people, but purely to demean the practice of Dorje Shugden.

    “It is clear now that Dolgyal (a derogatory term referring to Dorje Shugden) activities have become a tool for the Chinese government to slander His Holiness the Dalai Lama, demean the Tibetan people’s faith in His Holiness and disrupt Tibetan harmony,” she said.

    How can any government blame and use a religious practice in its political game, and in its process stop people from practising Dorje Shugden? All practitioners have different teachers, some His Holiness Dalai Lama and some other teachers, whom they have received the practice of Dorje Shugden from. How can the Central Tibetan Administration publish a book telling people of the disbenefits of a religious practice with the aims of hoping to achieve unity and garner more support for His Holiness in that manner? I respect His Holiness very much, but as an icon of peace, the ban against Dorje Shugden practice has brought much more suffering and condemnation than peace to Tibetans and practitioners worldwide.

    The fact is there is a ban on Dorje Shugden practice and Dorje Shugden lamas worldwide like Tsem Tulku Rinpoche are constantly defamed, abused, threatened and insulted for it. I am not interested in the political movements of the CTA but exploiting sentiments of people through means of a religious practice is not what a governing body should do. I stand for the fact that everyone should be able to practice what they choose to freely, not be discriminated against for practising it and definitely not having the administrative body of Tibetans publish books and videos undermining and speaking against the practice of Dorje Shugden.

    Fostering ties with China can only bring benefits to Tibet, its people and the leadership in exile but ultimately, this workshop will only go to waste if the leadership in exile continues its way to segregate its people in this way.

    Reply
36. 

    Ron Wong on Nov 27, 2016 at 6:03 pm

    China being the new superpower nation of the world is certainly undeniable. Every nations & leaders of the world wants to be friend & develop close relationship with china because there are many benefits doing so. Whether it is for economic, political, trade & security benefits, China is the leading nation of the world that everyone chooses not to ignore. Even the Tibetan leadership is no exception. Though I am a little surprised with the change of heart here, but it is certainly a good start because of the many benefits that China can bring to the nation & its people as we have seen since the mother land rule over Tibet.

    In the past 50 years, the Tibetan leadership had tried to regain back Tibet’s independent from China, nothing has achieved but only separation, disharmony & suffering of its people who are torn between the Dorje Shugden issue which has nothing to do with politics at all. Instead of focusing on the real issue at hand, the practice of Dorje Shugden, a dharma protector has been portrait as anti-Dalai Lama & a sabotage to the Tibetan cause since then. This time around & for whatever reason the Tibetan leadership’s change of heart, I hope that their focus is on the Tibetan people & Dorje Shugden issue. As I believe that leader of the country is responsible to ensure that economical & social welfare of the people is being taken care off & there are peace & harmony in the people living conditions.

    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing such great news & I wish only happiness & joy for the Tibetan people.

    Reply
37. 

    Pastor Han Nee on Nov 24, 2016 at 9:43 pm

    Tibet is an inalienable part of China -most democratic countries in the world agree on that.Even the Dalai Lama has, since 1974, not sought for independence, according to what he told the media in Ulaanbatar on23rd November. All His Holiness wants is genuine autonomy. All Dalai Lama wants is “a mutually beneficial solution, beneficial to both sides”.He has stressed that “friendship between Tibetan and Chinese peoples is very essential”.

    The Tibetan leadership should respect the wishes of HH Dalai Lama, and , as Tsem Rinpoche so wisely suggests, there should be peaceful negotiations, for a solution acceptable to both sides. This also applies to the Shugden issue. There should be peaceful negotiations for an amicable solution. So right now, the Tibetan leadership should not be irritating the Chinese government. Instead, they should work towards a peaceful way of reaching out to China. There is everything to gain. Most importantly is to work peacefully for the preservation of the rich Tibetan language and culture, and not lose all of this through a stubborn refusal to be friends with China.

    Reply
38. 

    Lum Kok Luen on Nov 24, 2016 at 6:23 pm

    Dear Rinpoche,

    Thank you very much for sharing this positive news. At least there is this cause created for Tibet and China to ultimately reconcile, albeit in whatever form we do not know yet.

    Whichever way this turns out, I am sure that there is nothing wrong in befriending China as it is a pretty big and powerful nation (both in numbers and economics). So, I would say that this is really a good positive step forward.

    I am also sad that till this day there are so much verbal and written abuse of Your Eminnece which saddens me as the person(s) creating these statements are collecting so much negative karma themselves.

    We pray and hope that one day there will be very positive results in this whole Tibet – China relation.

    Thank you.

    Humbly yours.
    Lum Kok Luen

    Reply
39. 

    Paul Yap on Nov 22, 2016 at 10:38 pm

    China is definitely becoming the world leaders in this century, in terms of economy and perhaps military as well. There are more Pros to have close ties with China. We can see that all the world leaders are making good relationship with China. We have to accept that Tibet is already part of China, there is no turning back. Tibetan and their leaders needs to accept this fact. It will be wise for the Tibetan to make good relationship with China, to grow their economy, culture and religious.

    Reply
40. 

    So Kin Hoe (KISG) on Nov 22, 2016 at 7:58 pm

    Thank you Rinpoche for writing and sharing the article about the importance of Tibet befriending China, especially at this point of time where China is one of the most powerful countries with the fast growing economy. I totally agree that Tibetans should have become friends with Chinese few decades ago since both are living in neighboring countries and once Tibetan has become friends with Chinese, there will be more benefits for Tibetans in terms of economic trading, national security, political relationship and even cultural exchange to learn more from each other. It would be better to have more friends rather more unfriendly persons surrounding us within our vicinity.

    Further more, religion should not be interfered by any political means, which can only induce more confusion and contradiction, and it is totally a wrong view when Dorje Shugden’s practitioners are being linked to China’s influence since Dorje Shugden arose as Dharma Protector during the 5th Dalai Lama’s time in Tibet. Upon reading this article, it is observed that a good and positive step taken by Mr Dawa Tsering, Representative His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Taiwan, to participate the workshop carried out at DIIR Lhakpa Tsering Memorial Hall with the objective of closing the gap between Tibet and China in the diplomatic level.

    I sincerely pray that very soon, both Tibet and China will become friends and maintain a good neighboring relationship that promote peace, harmony and mutual understanding which can benefit all the Tibetans in overall.

    May the ban of Dorje Shugden will be lifted as soon as possible with the compassion and blessings from H.H. the 14th Dalai Lama. May no one ever live in fear and being discriminated.

    Thank you Rinpoche with folded hands,
    kin hoe

    Reply
41. 

    Fong on Nov 21, 2016 at 9:53 pm

    China is fast becoming an economic power exceeding all others in this world. The major western leaders have been meeting with China officials and having referendums for trade. All the western powers walk a thin line balancing politics and economics. SO, they will be very cautious when it comes to Tibet.

    So, it is timely and for the benefit of Tibet that there are training on befriending China. Though it may not seem palatable at all, there must a separation of church and state, as all the major powers of the world had recognized and practiced.

    Reply
42. 

    Keng Tan on Nov 21, 2016 at 6:51 pm

    This article makes a while lot of sense. If I remember well, back in the 90’s His Holiness The Dalai Lama appeared on UK news saying prayers and guns don’t fill hungry stomachs and China is making that provision for/to Tibetan sector.

    If indeed we are dealing with spirituality, we should disregard politics as I feel they do not mix well.

    So His Holiness in the 90’s already has far better vision of the Sino Tibetan relationship.

    Its a shame that those at grass roots level cannot see this vision and constantly creating schism within a community that would otherwise be enjoying the fruits of harmony.

    Reply
43. 

    Choong on Nov 21, 2016 at 12:24 am

    Guess what?
    Even Mark Zuckerberg is marching to China!

    https://www.technologyreview.com/s/602493/mark-zuckerbergs-long-march-to-china/?utm_campaign=socialflow&utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=post

    

    Reply
    • 

      Jacinta Goh on Nov 22, 2016 at 8:44 am

      That’s funny but it is a fact too. He learnt mandarin quite well. Not sure of his intention but am pleased to see this.

      Reply
      • 

        Choong on Nov 24, 2016 at 12:11 am

        He is just being a practical businessman. You cannot pretend to be “the” global social media company without a footprint in China which is the world’s largest economy and who has 700 million internet users.

        And to be in China, you have to play with Chinese rules.

        Reply
44. 

    Echeah on Nov 20, 2016 at 2:34 am

    Thank you Rinpoche for the very well written article. We are so fortunate to be given updates on these events as they unfold, right here on Rinpoche’s blog.

    Indeed it is very heartening to hear some sort of Chinese outreach campaign is starting. Tibet as a people should engage rather than face off China, same goes for Hong Kong, America and any nation. Any ally is always better than a foe. Whatever their reason to do so, if they do, it may be for benefits, whether economic, power or security etc. I totally agree with Rinpoche that it’s always about benefits. All nations usually look for benefits first, and often it is at other nations’ expense.

    Look at how the western nations bully the 3rd world and keep them down as much as possible. Christopher Columbus sailed the ocean not to enjoy his cruise but to colonise and plunder.

    Palm oil, being major export revenue for the 3rd world (SEA countries), is so versatile that it dominates supermarket shelves from shampoo to Nutella to shortening to cooking oil to biscuits to pastries, to cosmetics, the list goes on. It’s technical superiority, health benefits and versatility cannot be usurped by oil from soybean, rapeseed, sunflower, corn (from the western countries). But the west has advocated a very strong anti-palm oil lobby and their buzzword is sustainability. They cite oil palm industry as having an extensive carbon footprint while the western oils do not. But studies have shown that America’s carbon footprint is way higher than that of China or India in terms of carbon consumption, meaning the US is much more polluted per capita. They fabricate all kinds of untruths about palm oil and have a well oiled lobbying machinery that has got the western man on the street totally convinced on their lies and governments enacting laws. They continue their plunder of the weaker nations by instituting economic sanctions and preferential taxes against them. There is the Nutella tax. Now Trump has a new crackpot idea of imposing a 45% tax on Chinese imports. Well, is that a fair country after all? It’s blatant protectionism and bullying.

    It’s always about self-benefit.

    Reply
45. 

    Vinnie Tan on Nov 19, 2016 at 9:32 pm

    This is just great news that the DIIR are conducting workshops teaching the Tibetans how to reach out to the Chinese in China. It shows that the younger and the newer generation of Tibetans know what is more practical and know what they should be doing in order to help their own people.

    There is no point to keep fighting against China like that. The world’s economy is changing and it is only smarter for them to follow the trend. In fact, Tibet has improved with the help of China.

    If the CTA really want to help the Tibetans that are still in China and fulfill H.H. Dalai Lama’s wishes, I think that they should try their best to be friends with China stop their anti-China actions.

    Reply
46. 

    Li Kim on Nov 19, 2016 at 12:57 pm

    There is so much logic and common sense for nations to have relations with China. It is a fact. Look at everything that is happening in the world. Therefore it is only normal for Tibet to do the same. This workshop looks like a progressive step for the CTA. But I cannot help but see the irony and hypocrisy in the actions of the CTA overall especially in the issue of worship of Dorje Shugden and China. It is “brave” that CTA paints this whole picture that China is behind the slandering of the HHDL, and then have this workshop to close ties with China. It is no wonder that after 5 decades things are still the same and Tibet is part of China still – fickle and inconsistent government actions.

    Reply
47. 

    shelly tai on Nov 19, 2016 at 12:37 pm

    As we all know China is the growing superpower there is no doubt about it ,so for the Tibetan to grow economically they need to rely on China so that the Tibetan will have a better living place and is good for the younger generation which they need proper education to improve their current living condition so no point to fight with China that is really pointless to do that.

    Reply
48. 

    Mingwen on Nov 19, 2016 at 3:31 am

    The authorities of one country must always place their citizens’ as their priority rather than their own benefits.

    Imagine how much works can be well done and eliminates any possibility of going back to redo or repair a project that has been “DONE” in a country. Its saved cost, time and the citizens can be benefited without any delay.

    All of the countries have corruption issue, but why some of the countries are developed and some are still undeveloped? Personally, I think that the authorities of one country are being selfish, greedy and acting illogically. When a country is developed, the country would definitely have more incomes why are they only focusing actions that are gaining self benefits.

    May all authorities of various country place their citizens’ as their priority. May all of us regardless of race, religion and gender around the world can live together in harmony and peace.

    Reply
49. 

    Lew on Nov 18, 2016 at 11:38 pm

    HH Dalai Lama has always advocate love, compassion and kindness, but it is strange that many Tibetans are very hateful towards China. It is quite ironic because Buddhism talks about acceptance, forgive and move forward, but yet, so many engage in this hatred game.

    With all the hatred against China, why would China give Tibet autonomous? If China give Tibet autonomous, with the hatred, Tibet would want to be independent of China and we all know China is not going to let that happen.

    If Tibet is smart, they really should be friend China and stop the hatred strategy. But I guess Tibetan government in exile is caught in between. They want to use the hatred energy to stir the emotions of people, but I am quite sure they know it is not going to work, but they seem to have lost their way.

    I can understand why Tibetans are so hateful against China, but being hateful is not going change anything for the better, for sure.

    Reply
50. 

    Anne Ong on Nov 18, 2016 at 2:17 pm

    Thank you Rinpoche for highlighting this article. i myself is really not good in politics. In my humble opinion, politics and religion should not mix. This is indeed a good news. China today holds the strongest economy country in the world. CTA really did a very good move this time. And I hope it’ll be more coming in the future. I agree with Rinpoche that Tibet should be in touch with China for the benefit of the Tibetans. And this includes the Dorje Shugden issue.

    Reply
51. 

    Uncle Eddie on Nov 18, 2016 at 12:18 pm

    Xi Jinping, assumed Presidency of China on March 14, 2013. The most talked about issue during his presidency has been to establish China as a powerful Nation. As said and believed by what everybody thinks, it is essentially “a Chinese Dream” of China’s President, Xi Jinping! As written in the news, he wants to see China in 2049 on the centenary of her independence as a rich, powerful, democractic and a friendly nation, with its century’s old tradition and legacy. As the old proverb says, “Where there is a will, there is a way.” The great Chinese plan major goal remains the “Silk Road Economic Belt.” In his envision, Xi Jinping considers the development of the Silk Road Economic Zone as an essential to build a network for regional coperatoion. The great Chinese plan aims at including Euraisian, South Asian and West Asian countries within it fold. Through this framework of economic cooperation amongst these countries, it will promote cultural communication and interaction amongst the people. While in its focused on the promotion of regional, international and bilateral relations, President Xi Jinping was not oblivious to building the foundation of good Governance of China. Being an experienced political Leader emerging from the grassroot. He knows well that unless the hopes and aspirations of the people are met, no initiatives will sustain in the long run! So therefore, this may be one major important point of why Tibet should befriend back China, for the sole benefit of its people, followers and friends. Thank you heartily, Rinpoche for the sharing!

    Reply
52. 

    Phoebe Chong on Nov 18, 2016 at 5:36 am

    CTA should seriously work harder to repair relationship with China. It’s time Tibetan to wake up, the fact is in the past 60 years of time have proven CTA unable to win Tibet back, what make CTA able to win now or tomorrow! In addition, today china is a power house unlike CTA not even recognised as a country. People shouldn’t still staying in the past or history, move on, work for the better future.

    Tibetans and monks who staying at China speak fluently in mandarin these days, should be so proud of them. Many people in the world now learning mandarin or parents encouraging their children to learn mandarin. One of the good example is Ivanka Trump’s daughter Arabella (US’s president Donald Trump’s granddaughter), reciting Chinese Poem and learning mandarin at aged 4 been published by CNN (http://edition.cnn.com/2016/11/15/asia/china-donald-trump-granddaughter-speaks-chinese-trnd/). What this mean! No more fighting against or ignore the strong existence of China in our world now!

    Even the owner’s family of US white house educating their next generation for chinese and cultural, what make CTA should be exception. CTA should spending times and resources befriending China instead of promoting hatred among community on Dorje Shugden’s ban, or using funds and leading tibetan working against religious freedom.

    Reply
53. 

    Joy Kam on Nov 18, 2016 at 4:16 am

    Well if you ask me… I think it is about time but maybe time is running out for the CTA. They should have done this like 10 years ago. Befriending China is the way to go if they want to survive especially after His Holiness sorry to say passes. India is trying hard tobuild strong tie with China and anything to do with the Tibetans and HH the Dalai Lama has been in the way most of the time, so I would not be surprised that India ditches the Tibetans and CTA once HH is gone. They are still friendly now to give face to His Holiness.

    But I cannot help to wonder why do they want to learn mandarin now as an outreach to China now while a few days ago they condemn Dorje Shugden, accusing it to be a tool the Chinese is using against His Holiness? Why the huge contrast and contradiction? Could it be desperation or a plot by the CTA to get into the good books of China so that they can maintain their power and wealth? Either way they need to be friends with China like what Rinpoche has been telling us. And if H.H. the Dalai Lama wishes to return to Tibet, they definitely need to be friends with China. The clock is ticking for them and they really don’t have much time left.

    Reply
54. 

    TekLee on Nov 18, 2016 at 1:55 am

    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing the article. It is indeed a good news. Maybe it is not to those who “fight” for Tibet independent. Actually i keep asking this question to myself, “is it really so bad under the governance of China? What is wrong under governance of China?” If we take some time to read about China history (i am always interested in reading China history) China was not ruled by communist by choice. And, if it’s not rule by communist, what will this country be today? Such a big country. And, actually, the faith of the country falls in the hand of the citizen / people of that country.
    But China today is totally different from China 10 years ago, even different from the past 5 years ago. China today holds the strongest economy country in the world. So, what is wrong under the governance of China? CTA really did a very good move this time, and hope it’ll be more coming in the future. I totally agree with what Rinpoche said, we don’t cast stones at those who we request things from, we treat them coffee & tea and lunch & dinner to slowly talk about it. I am not part of Tibet, but as a Tibetan Buddhism practitioner, I also hope that one day Tibet and China can solve this issue peacefully soon.
    Thank you again Rinpoche. With folded hands _/\_

    Reply
55. 

    nicholas on Nov 18, 2016 at 1:18 am

    It’s a great move for Tibet to be in this program to foster the relationship with China. What happen in 57 years ago is a past and what important is the future. His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama has been preaching for dialogue to resolve whatever issue we have or face and this is the first time I see such movement from CTA following His Holiness positive advice.

    Dorje Shugden practice has been claimed to be the caused of the downfall of the country and has been accused as anti Dalai Lama due to connection with China. So does it mean anyone or country that befriended with China are anti Dalai Lama? This sound ridiculous. Why mix the religious belief into political issue?
    After so long from the Shugden ban what positive result that actually has it been achieved by Tibetan leaders? yet only separation and suffering of the Tibetan.

    The future for Tibetan is not to hold back the past and spending unnecessary effort splitting their people through religious ban but how to move forward to unite their people and face the reality of the existence. China indeed is the country that have most influences in the world that many country would like to be ally with. The future is peace, unity and harmony not only within Tibetan but with other countries.

    This first move from CTA is a surprising step but is a positive one and looking forward for the next event.

    Reply
56. 

    Vivian Ong on Nov 18, 2016 at 12:24 am

    Thank you Rinpoche for this interesting and informative article. I agree with Rinpoche that Tibet should be in touch with China for the benefit of the Tibetans. We know very well that now China is the biggest in terms of economy. So, for Tibetan to be able to build back Tibet, they need to reach out to China for help. I think the CTA should think of a middle way to resolve this issue.

    With folded palms,
    Vivian

    Reply
57. 

    Kb Thapa on Nov 17, 2016 at 11:57 pm

    Rinpoche came to Malaysia to teach he has been doing very well. Dorje Shugden practitioners have been discriminated and along with very high lamas like H. E. Tsem Rinpoche. I am just amazed how Tibetan Government can put down another lama saying Chinese spay or being paid just because he practice Dorje Shugden. As far as i know Tibetan they never criticize another lama. Wake up CTA look around you see what happening.. China, one of the most powerful and growing economically. CTA needs to be serious and be honest and have sincere dialog with China, they need to stop talking nonsense. CTA should lift the ban on Dorje Shugden and let people practice whatever they want.

    Reply
58. 

    Julia Tan on Nov 17, 2016 at 7:52 pm

    I’m a Malaysian Chinese. In Malaysia we have many religions, but we do not have conflict nor problems practicing Dorje Shugden (a 400 years Dharma protector purely for spiritual growth).

    I’ve seen how anti-Shugden people attack H.E. the 25th Tsem Rinpoche online, put him down by accusing Rinpoche of being paid by China. He was being called names. These anti-DS people are very rude.

    H.E. Tsem Rinpoche and many other Dorje Shugden lamas and practitioners have been discriminated and being blamed for the failure of Tibetan course with some illogical reasons. Not only that, DS Lamas and practitioners being accused as China’s spies without any prove.

    H. E. Tsem Rinpoche who being the spiritual guide for Tsem Rinpoche organisation in Malaysia. Rinpoche is being put down and attacked online daily with horrible threat, vulgar words and lies by some anonymous that claimed represent Tibetan and forced Rinpoche to give up Dorje Shugden practice.

    H.E. Tsem Rinpoche is a simple monk who came to Malaysia to teach the pure lineage of Lama Tsongkhapa. He deserved to be respected as anyone of us.

    Setting up DIIR is the smartest move by CTA. After 50 years, CTA finally realised the importance of building the relationship between Tibet and China. I don’t know much about politic but I believe everyone deserve world peace, happiness and a stable economy. Setting up DIIR is definitely for the better future of Tibet. The day Tibatan to return to their mother land will be soon.

    Reply
59. 

    graceleong on Nov 17, 2016 at 7:35 pm

    I agree 100% to the explanation given by Rinpoche relating to the importance of Tibet befreinding China.
    I do sympathise with the Tibetans who suffered during the invasion of Tibet by China in the 1950s. Many lost their loved ones or were forced to be separated, lost their homes and other material possesions, lost their careers and livelihoods etc. There is without a doubt that there was lots of sufferings caused to the Tibetans for many years.
    That was 57 years ago. We cannot survive on sympathy alone. For the Buddhists, what happened to Tibet and the Tibetans is KARMA. Maybe it’s a purification of very bad karma. I am not an expert in the subject of Karma, and I do not say this to judge anyone. Whatever did happen has happened for a reason, and the only way is to move on from there, believing it was for a collective good and be grateful that it was not worse.
    Well Karma doesn’t stop there. How the Tibetans react to the invasion and all the decisions made thereafter will create new karma. If the Tibetans want good karma then create the causes for that to ensure a better future.
    The question now is – was all that bad mouthing towards China and Tibetans who befriended China necessary or productive ?
    During the initial period after the invasion, many will sympathise with the Tibetans and loads of money was raised from the kind hearts of the citizens of the world. However, if the money raised was not put to do what was promised, then it becomes a scam. Scamming intentionally cannot possibly bring any help or good karma to the Tibetans !! Is that why China never barged even an inch towards all the requests made by HH the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government ?
    Lets have a simple scenario. When you need a favour from someone do you talk to the person kindly and patiently and skillfully or bad mouth them ?
    Tibetans stand to loose more when you turn China into an enemy. The rest of the world cannot resist being friends with China. China is huge and huge can only be transformed to dollars and cents. In this degenerate world there is no value for righteousness ! It’s sad but that is the truth and humbly we have to learn to live with it and do what is necessary for the benefit of the majority.
    When Tibetan government bad mouth China plus discriminate all the Tibetans who have dealings with China, they are just thinking of themselves and not how to benefit their people. It’s so clear! So if the Tibetan government truly want to benefit its people then it will have to change its approach – try being a friend to China as Tsem Rinpoche advises !
    It’s a great start for DIIR to hold their First Workshop to Enhance Chinese Outreach Campaign. Let’s hope more initiatives will be put in place to close the gaps created from all the animosity between the two governments.
    Also, a very crucial point to the Tibetan government is to STOP DISCRIMINATING others like the Dorje Shugden Lamas and practitioners and using them as an excuse for their own failure to free tibet. STOP creating diversions or falsity to un-focus from your own failures. That is totally unfair and uncalled for. It will not bring the CTA any good results by doing so and too much sufferings are created instead. PLEASE END THIS BAN ON DORJE SHUGDEN . With folded hands.

    Reply
60. 

    Sarah Yap on Nov 17, 2016 at 7:27 pm

    The CTA have always been saying that they are waiting to have dialogue with China, but all they ever did is to push China away. China is obviously managed by highly intelligent officials, now tell me which intelligent person would bother to waste their time to speak to someone who’s so set on seeing you as wrong and appear to be hostile. Anyone would see such pointlessness of engaging in such meeting. The CTA has no leeway to bargain with China and they of all people, like every other country in the world, should be rushing to be in China good books. Instead, they act as if they are exclusive and deserve the demands they place on China. LOL.

    Frankly speaking, if CTA doesn’t repair their relationship with China, a few more years down the road, it will be impossible for them to do anything even if they wanted to. Infact, I’m just guessing that because of all the damage the CTA have done between China and them, it is highly possible that there is no chance at all for reconciliation, and the CTA is just biding their time as long as they can.

    Some people from the ‘Free Tibet’ branch has a genuine hate for China, condemns China as if their life depends on it, despite knowing the hypocrisy behind their actions. And at the same time, without realizing, or perhaps they dont care, that their actions are directly harming the very hope of re-establishing any form of connection between the CTA and China.

    It’s time the CTA wake up and stop lying to themselves. They cant use the ‘poor me’ or ‘human rights’ approach much longer. With China rising as a power house, their economic significance will force other nations to keep good relations with them. NO LEADER in any country be it a President, Prime Minister, Sultan, whatever… will fight for Tibet’s human rights at the expense of foreign relations. At the end of their term, all retired presidents would want to talk about is how their works have contributed to their own country and GDP growth; not how they screw up the country’s foreign relations due to their ‘personal’ feelings toward human rights issues in Tibet.

    Reply
61. 

    Justin Cheah on Nov 17, 2016 at 6:31 pm

    It is indeed interesting that the Tibetan leadership is encouraging such workshops to foster Tibetans on how to reach out to China. For me it would bexpect better if it had been done much earlier. What Tsem Rinpoche highlighted in this article was very clear and yes I would agree. Sooner or later Tibetans in Exile will already have different mindsets of their ancestors. By then, there will be not much headway to be done like for instance returning back to Tibet which would have been flourished by then. I really hope the workshop will be done with a good motivation and also regularly so that there will be hope for Tibetans. Who knows, Tibetan can be back in Tibet again and take care of their own clan and land with Chinese government watching closely. I really hope by this small little step began by CTA will lead to more positivity rather than negativity that is surrounding Dharamsala especially the issue with Dorje Shugden. I am very happy to also read the word “middle way” in the article. I believe this is what the majority of Tibetans want, the lifting of Dorje Shugden ban, back in Tibet with families, peace away from war and continue the legacy of rich Tibetan culture.

    Reply
62. 

    Pastor Han Nee on Nov 17, 2016 at 4:21 pm

    Respect for Tibet and respect for China can go hand in hand . Tibet has a rich and unique culture and religion and language. China too has a rich cultural background and boasts of a past of powerful ancient civilisations. Today China is being courted by Western powers because it is a fast rising economic powerhouse , and, in fact ,it is the world’s leading economic power.

    While we can respect the past, we should not cling to it. Impermanence and change are the truths that Buddha taught. Clinging to a past that is no more will not allow us to move on. The way forward for Tibet is what Tsem Rinpoche advises so wisely. The Tibetan leadership should be friends with China , instead of mulishly sticking its head in the sand. There is everything to gain and nothing to lose, if it does so.

    In the past the Tibetan leadership had been quick to ostracise Tibetan Lamas and ordinary people who had been to China and met the Chinese leaders. So now when Dharamsala starts organising workshops to teach Tibetans and others how to reach out to China and the Chinese national, we wonder if it’s a genuine effort to start being friends with China or not. If it is a genuine effort, it should be sustained. It will only be good for the future of the Tibetans in exile if the Tibetan leadership were to pursue this single-mindedly.

    At the same time, it should recognize the sincerity of Lamas like Tsem Rinpoche, who can respect Tibet, China and the Dalai Lama, simultaneously, from the pure viewpoint of Dharma. What Tsem Rinpoche says is true. In previous lives , we had been born as citizens of every one of the countries in the world today. We had been born as animals and in other realms too. Hence, it is meaninglessly to discriminate based on the labels we give to others. Best is to focus on our ongoing spiritual growth for this and future lives, as our mindstream is continuous and goes on into future lives.

    In a matter of time, Tibetans who have migrated abroad, will have assimilated into the foreign cultures of the countries they had migrated to. History has shown that , after a few generations, all the wrongs done to one’s own country or race would have been forgotten, once the dust of time had settled over them.

    Reply
63. 

    Sarah on Nov 17, 2016 at 3:53 pm

    H.E. Tsem Rinpoche is speaking the truth. The fact is, Tibet is part of China. Therefore, it is better for the Tibetans to be pragmatic and work together with the Chinese authorities to preserve the Tibetan language and culture. Looking at things from the point of view of the Dharma, I see only karma (cause and effect). If one believes in karma, then it shouldn’t be difficult to accept one’s present situation and move forward, creating the causes and conditions for a better future for Tibetans living in China. As Rinpoche said, it is necessary to have dialogue with polite language and mutual respect for each other. Both sides can work something out together. And this includes the Dorje Shugden issue.

    Reply
64. 

    Datuk May on Nov 17, 2016 at 3:52 pm

    It is with great amazement that the DIIR part of the CTA is conducting programs to their executive officers on the Outreach to China.

    It had been more than 50 years now that Tibetans in exile had left their motherland and it may be a bit late for such ideas of reconciliation. However having said that, I think that it is better late than never.

    What is going through my mind is why now? Is it another manipulation by the CTA in fear of losing power with the reincarnation of the 15th Dalai Lama. In the event there are to be two 15th Dalai Lama, who then will be in better position to lead and be the spiritual head of Tibetans.

    The one in China, leading 6 million Tibetans or the one in India leading a few hundred thousands Tibetan in exile. Looking at this fact may be the reason for the CTA to consider this outreach to China.

    What I have mentioned here is not folly for even now there are 2 Karmapas.

    Another very valid point as highlighted by HE the 25th Tsem Rinpoche is that Tibetans in exile may not be that much aligned to their ethnic cultures anymore as they grow up in other lands and may be more assimilated in their new environment.

    It is my sincere hope that CTA can reconcile with China with some meaningful advantages for all Tibetans.

    Since the 1980s when China opened up to the world, many Chinese like my forefathers have returned to China, reunited with their families and have contributed towards the betterment of their kin. That was a wonderful experience for overseas Chinese to be part of their homeland again.

    It is also my hope that with this realization of dialogue as advocated by Rinpoche, the same may be applied for the ban on Dorje Shugden. Dialogue will create situations whereby all parties will win and harmony restored.

    Reply
65. 

    Stella Cheang on Nov 17, 2016 at 3:31 pm

    Happy to read that Dharamsala decided to soften their stance on China and hold workshop that focuses on hypotheses of a potential friendship i.e. (1) why do Tibetans need to reach out to Chinese, (2) the level of coordination required with Chinese nationals, and (3) how to reach out to Chinese nationals. It is not too late to choose between being the leader with lessening respect of a tiny population versus being the leader, no doubt with confined authorities, of a six million population and a thriving economy.

    The sad thing is, while the leadership of Tibetan in exile is spinning their u-turn in their national policy, they seemed to have forgotten the pain and suffering that they had created in their own backyard when they used to (still are) demonizing and labelling all Dorje Shugden practitioners as pro-China. As the accusations are without prove, and the leadership of Tibetan in exile has decided to cozy up to China, they should immediately lift the Shugden ban. In the earnestly to pursue a good and friendly relationship with China, they should remove the Shugden ban, which is as good as removing the excuses for negative rhetoric about China to a large extend.

    Collaboration to expound Shugden practice and teachings in Tibet can be one of the many steps to reach out to the Chinese in the very near future. Thank you very much Rinpoche for this fantastic article.

    Reply
66. 

    Pastor Patsy on Nov 17, 2016 at 2:14 pm

    CTA, it’s time to wake up and it’s time to put aside the slandering and stop antagonizing China.
    Reading this article gives a glimmer of hope and I am happy that the CTA is taking the first and right step to enhance better relationships with China. However, there is no way that the CTA can have good relationship with China if they keep degrading China and condemning those who practiced Dorje Shugden as anti-Dalai Lama or Chinese spies etc. CTA should stopped discriminating and suppressing Dorje Shugden practitioners and even respected lamas are not spared. It is so disheartening to see H.E. The 25th Tsem Rinpoche been bombarded with vulgarities and nasty messages on line with the intention of tarnishing his reputation.
    HH. The 14th Dalai Lama has already said that anyone can practice Dorje Shugden as Dorje Shugden cannot harm him or the Tibetan cause. CTA should lift the ban and not go all out to ostracized Dorje Shugden practioners.
    Thank you, Rinpoche for sharing this insightful article.

    Reply
67. 

    Leonard Ooi on Nov 17, 2016 at 1:09 pm

    Dear Rinpoche,

    Thank you for highlighting this article.

    In my opinion, politics and religion should not mix , and the initiative taken by the Tibet authorities to reach out to China is indeed a correct move to promote peace and harmony.

    Lifting the ban on Dorje Shugden worship is one of the best move to promote Peace among worshippers and non worshippers ; so much so that eventually there woukd be less or no alienation or discrimination among the people of China and Tibet based on their different beliefs and religion. Everyone has the freedom to choose their religion without fear being branded anti-Tibet or anti Dalai Lama or pro China etc etc .

    Let there be PEACE Abd HARMONY

    With folded hands,

    Leonard Ooi
    KPSG

    Reply
68. 

    Pastor Henry Ooi on Nov 17, 2016 at 12:49 pm

    It’s about time the CTA wake up that it benefits them and their governance of their people by not going against their enemy, China, one of the most powerful, if not the current most powerful nation in the world. CTA have been crying over spilt milk for over five decades, I think it is time for them to clean up the milk and move on ahead. CTA banned the practice of Dorje Shugden, a practice that is being in existence for centuries in Tibet, yet China, considered a country ruled by so called communists, allow their citizens to do the practice. Reports and news that booming businesses in Tibet China are on the rise, the majority of the citizens living there are happy and prosperous. I can’t say the same of the people living in Dharamsala.

    Reply
    • 

      Pastor Henry Ooi on Dec 7, 2016 at 11:57 pm

      I hope that for the betterment of the Tibetan leadership and its people that this effort would bring about benefits for all. No use crying over spilt milk but look forward to a better future. Also I look forward to seeing the lifting of the ban imposed by the Dalai Lama on the practice of Dorje Shugden.

      Reply
69. 

    Kien Wong on Nov 17, 2016 at 12:43 pm

    Thank you Rinpoche to share this topic with us. i myself really not good in politic. But, i really don’t see the benefit of any of this Tibetan in the China site after all the past fighting topics/issues of CTA for the past 50 years. I think is time to check the results they created before and look for the new possibility to gain the China to support them in many ways like to keep their religions, culture and many more other Tibetan believe.

    Reply
70. 

    Harold Musetescu on Nov 17, 2016 at 11:33 am

    I think that the key phrase here is, “The topics included the reincarnation issue…”. Keep a eye on the Dalai Lama’s health in the months to come. The CTA is not the author of all of this new found policy but it is in fact the 14th Dalai Lama.

    The 14th Dalai Lama and his CTA fear the “reincarnation issue”. Will there in fact be only one 15th Dalai Lama or will there be TWO. They fear that there will be two 15th Dalai Lama’s. One from “India” which will be chosen by the CTA and one from “Tibet” chosen by the Chinese.

    The “Tibetan” 15th Dalai Lama will be chosen by the “Golden Urn” method. He will be born in Tibet and he will be pro Dorje Shugen. He and the Panchen Lama will do Dorje Shugden empowerments throughout Tibet. Together they will stand as defenders of Dorje Shugden. The new Tibetan Dorje Shugden “Oracle” will replace the Nechung Oracle as the new State Oracle of Tibet. Dorje Shugden as has been previously predicted will be made the “State Protector of Tibet”, replacing the Pehar who is to retire.

    How can the CTA and the Dalai Lama counter all of this? Maybe they realize that they can’t and hope by making nice gestures to the Chinese they will get on their good side. They may believe that an “Indian” 15th Dalai Lama is just a dead end road for them? Maybe by making gestures to the Chinese they can get a chance to remain in some kind of partial position of power under the Chinese.

    Keep watching what the CTA and the Dalai Lama do in the future with positive statements towards China. See what they say and do about ending the ban on Dorje Shugden.

    This is all about “The reincarnation issue” and nothing else.

    Reply
71. 

    CindyH on Nov 17, 2016 at 11:24 am

    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this article.

    With such workshops, it does appear that CTA is stepping in the direction which can yield a positive outcome. Whilst such initiatives are indeed welcomed, CTA has to back up such initiative to reach out and befriend China with more sincerity in order for things to move. The reality is that China has the upper hand and for CTA to have a shot at furthering the Tibetan cause from its current stalemate status, CTA has to befriend and rebuild a relationship with China.

    Imagine that you are thinking of going into a business with X and in the midst of negotiating the deal, you keep hearing X disparaging you by attacking your integrity and character. Would you still think that X is someone who can be trusted to have the interest of the business at heart and will act in good faith? Would you not be put-off by X? Would it not jeopardise the deal?

    And yet that is what CTA is actually doing. Take for example the ban on Dorje Shugden. CTA has issued many official documents condemning Dorje Shugden practitioners as China’s spies, working for China as working for the enemy of Tibet and anti-Dalai Lama. In fact, to date, many of such negative statement and propaganda continues to be available visibly internally and internationally. Whenever CTA repeats those baseless allegations, CTA is continuously demonising China in the eyes of both Tibetans and the world at large. Isn’t it then logically foreseeable that such action would frustrate CTA’s efforts in reaching out to China for furtherance of the Tibetan cause?

    It also reinforces China’s views that Dalai Lama/CTA as not being genuine and bent on creating problems for the Chinese government. In fact, to a certain extent, China views CTA’s ban on Dorje Shugden as a way to split the Tibetans in the Tibet Autonomous Region and cause unrest there to make things difficult for China.

    Thus, based on past actions of CTA, China has every reason to be wary of them and workshops focusing on how to engage Chinese officials would amount to nothing if China refuse to play ball with CTA. Realistically, there really is no need for China to deal with CTA (as many countries acknowledge Tibet as part of China) and China’s economic influence is prevalent. So, unless China is moved by CTA’s sincerity to come back to the negotiation table, there is nothing much CTA can do to further the Tibet cause. Isn’t that another good reason to remove the baseless ban? What better way to demonstrate sincerity than to remove one of the things that China sees as a thorn on their side? In addition, CTA has nothing to lose (except for some “face”) and much to gain from removing the illogical ban.

    Hopefully, CTA’s would really do what it takes and put the interests of Tibetans over all other interests.

    Reply
72. 

    sonny tan on Nov 17, 2016 at 10:35 am

    Thank you Rinpoche for this illuminating article which will be the most talked about events worldwide in the very near future. It is indeed a very happy moment for all Tibetans that the CTA is willing to put behind the unfortunate episode that has disrupted so many lives, causing undissolved grievances, inducing unnecessary hatred which I hope the Tibetans would erased it from their memory in time to come.
    I must congratulate President Xi for his openness, friendly disposition, decisive and a very bold person who does not tolerate corruption a very likeable, warm and amicable person.
    This historic meeting I believe would not have been made possible without the blessings of his Holiness Dalai Lama which I hope would be fruitful and thereby ending an unpleasant chapter in Tibetan history and hopefully closed forever.

    Reply
73. 

    JP on Nov 17, 2016 at 9:36 am

    This is definitely a turn of events from CTA who has been ostracizing all Tibetans who have any sort of connections to China. I understand the sentiments having lost their country to China but it doesn’t serve the Tibetans at the end of the day.

    As highlighted clearly in this artice, most developed countries are eager to build a strong and amicable relationship with China for economic reasons. When countries prosper, their citizens’ livelihood improves and everyone is happy. Even the big boys like USA and the UK put in so much effort to have a good relationship with China regardless of their stance on human rights against China. At the end of the day, it’s all about money, as stated in the article.

    So if CTA really wants to take care of their Tibetans in exile, they should really stop attacking China. There is nothing CTA can do to reverse the situation. China is way too big and powerful for any country to have any influence on her.

    CTA should also stop abusing Dorje Shugden practitioners and accusing us of being anti Dalai Lama. It’s like accusing Muslims and Christians of being anti Dalai Lama just because they have connections with China. So ridiculously illogical and a complete farce. Being Malaysian looking at Tibetan politics, it’s so obvious that CTA is using Dorje Shugden practitioners as a scapegoat to cover up for their incompetence in not regaining Tibet. In addition, it is also very obvious that they are not interested in their people’s welfare.

    Why would any government punish their own people because of religious beliefs???? I find it highly suspicious. It’s a typical rule and divide strategy at the expense of the people.

    Let’s see.what else CTA will do after this.

    Reply
74. 

    Valentina Suhendra on Nov 17, 2016 at 9:17 am

    Dear Rinpoche

    Thank you for this insightful article. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that Department of Information and International Relations (DIIR) held a workshop to enhance China outreach campaign. The followings are my thoughts on the issue:

    1. Tibet is under Chinese authority and governance. If the Dalai Lama and the CTA are serious about wanting to have honest and sincere dialogs with China, they need to stop saying nasty things and accuse people of being the Chinese spies or receiving Chinese money in a manner that is degrading every time they found a person or a party that is not agreeable with their view. There is no way the CTA can have a discussion that is based on goodwill with China if they keep saying that everything that is associated with China is bad.

    2. Not only the CTA have to change their stance and be more polite to China, they also need to control their followers. The Dalai Lama and the CTA leadership in exile should strongly encourage their followers to stop using the terms Chinese and China in a degrading manner, to stop self-immolation, and to stop protesting against China in Tibet.

    3. As China’s influence grow, more world leaders will be drawn to China and avoid risking China’s wrath by meeting the Dalai Lama or the CTA leadership. Even today, we have read in the news leaders like the Vatican and Norwegian have been avoiding the Dalai Lama. This trend will continue if the CTA does not make peace with China. The CTA is highly depended on foreign aid to help its people. Only recently, they appeal for the fund to help Tibetan settlements in India, which are suffering from prolonged drought. Therefore, considering the current situation, the CTA should build a good rapport with China at least by implementing point no. 1 and no.2 above to reduce the risk other world leaders disassociating themselves with them for fear of invoking China’s displeasure.

    I think for the sake of Tibetan refugees in exile, the CTA should not repeatedly focus on the history of how China mistreat the Tibetans, but instead, focus on the better future and the benefit that can be gained by building a better relation with China. I am happy that the CTA is arranging this workshop to enhance the China outreach program and I hope this positive trend will continue.

    Valentina

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75. 

    Pastor Antoinette on Nov 17, 2016 at 8:23 am

    I rejoice for the efforts done in Dharamsala to organise such a Tibetan-Chinese cultire issue discussion. It has been so long since Tibet has been taken over by China and there is no good in not cooperating as the Tibetan people has to suffer the consequences.

    Indeed Chinese is a huge nation and has recently even overtaken the US as largest economy. I think that it is time to move on and these discussions are a good sign for finding the best conditions for the Tibetan people in the situation.

    The ban on Dorje Shugden and the many high lamas, monks and nuns as well as lay practitioners is not helpful and has destroyed the unity of the Tibetan people as the consequences are very harsh when exposed as a Dorje Shugden practitioner.

    Forced to sign that you give up the practice or being cast out, kicked out of the monastery, or for lay man and women they are not allowed to travel, not allowed to a governmental job, even going to the hospital, shops and school is not allowed for the Dorje Shugden practitioner in their community.

    These consequences are not part of a democratic society and I hope that the ban on Dorje Shugden practitioners will be lifted as soon as possible to bring the Tibetan community into harmony again.

    Thank you,
    Pastor Antoinette

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76. 

    Irene Lim on Nov 17, 2016 at 8:00 am

    No man is an island and especially we can see many powerful nations are clambering to reach out to China, the emerging world superpower for a slice of economic benefits. In reality every nation who cares for her country and people establish friendly relations with China for obvious reasons. They stand to gain from this stance than to remain aloof or foe. Even the once proud and powerful United Kingdom bent her knees and woed China at her best for trade favours. But why would an exile administration, CTA keep fighting a losing battle with the Great Wall? Isn’t it like throwing eggs on a wall? How illogical and comical it is. Of course unless CTA choose to gain financial aids and empathy from the world for its lost cause which is more attractive than serving its people while using Dorje Shugden and Shugden practitioners as a scapegoat for its political rhetoric. As a result of this it is hurting and segregating its own flock beyond imagination. If CTA is genuine for its people every effort should be made to repair its relation and create a peaceful and friendly bond with China. It is impertinent that CTA correct its damage now otherwise its opportunity would come to a pass for the status CTA is imminently withering away.

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77. 

    Sofi on Nov 17, 2016 at 5:41 am

    I read this article with great hope that CTA is moving towards friendship with China and finally H.H. the Dalai Lama may have his wish of dialogue for Autonomous Tibet granted. After 60 years in exile, the surviving Tibetans finally have a glimmer of hope to return home. I must commend CTA in seeking to correct their mistake of antagonising China, with this workshop to understand China & Chinese better.

    I agree that the past is history and without any countries’ backing, the Tibetans-In-Exile has no stance to regain full control of Tibet, especially not now when China has become the super power in military and international trade. Who would support the refugees who has nothing to offer whilst friendship with China offers riches to their country in terms of trade agreements?

    When I read point 2 & 3, I just couldn’t decide to laugh or sneer. Accusing China of being oppressive, evil, terrible human rights violation, etc when CTA practices the same. Just look at how the Dorje Shugden practitioners and Lamas had suffered for 20 years under the ban imposed by CTA. Properties were seized, monks were ran out of the only home (monasteries) they had known, practitioners denied access into shops for necessities, hospitals for medical care, schools for education, etc. There had been countless cases of Shugden practitioners being abused and threaten, even attained Lamas. Rinpoche has been spammed with ugly & vulgar messages of lies & abuses daily, trying to discredit & tarnish his precious Dharma work that helped so many of his students and other people locally and worldwide. So in actuality, CTA has no rights to speak of China’s “violations” at all. It’s like a double sided mirror that reflects each other and unless the mirror cracks, it will be a stalemate with no forward future. So I am impress that CTA is moving towards extending the olive branch.

    CTA should lift the ban on Dorje Shugden now. Firstly, the Dalai Lama had said we are allowed to practice without any harm to his life nor the Tibetan cause. Secondly, with lifting of the ban, unification of practitioners will take place. This would translate into support for CTA numbers extra millions as even non-Tibetans are still Tibetan Buddhists. Thirdly, CTA could refocus their wasteful expenditure to attack Shugden practitioners on efforts to train the friendship team. Lastly but not the least, Shugden pracitioners had never been any threat to either the Dalai Lama nor the Tibetan cause. We are just practitioner who wish for the freedom to practice with NO LINKS to China nor any supposedly “enemy”. Our link is only to our Guru who practices pure samaya to the unbroken lineage Gurus with pure teachings.

    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this article of hope and may the Ban on Dorje Shugden be lifted swiftly and all Tibetan Buddhists reunite as a whole. May the precious lineage teachings remain pure to carry the blessings all the way down to be pass on to the future.

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78. 

    Wan Wai Meng on Nov 17, 2016 at 5:09 am

    We all need friends, and especially if we are without a nation.

    Now this is a new development, that the Tibetans are working towards building ties with the Chinese. The issue of Tibet, cannot be resolved with more conflict. It needs dialogue, negotiation and understanding.

    It used to be unthinkable that Tibetans would want to reach to the Chinese, apart from the Dalai Lama doing, but seems like this is a government supported initiative. At some point we do need to wake up to reality, the China that is now is almost unstoppable not even the US can stand in its way.

    This is also validates the work Dorje Shugden lamas have done in China, they were not traitors to Tibetans, they were building a bridge to connect with the Chinese towards some form or resolution on the Tibetan issue.

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