Dalai Lama blesses Setrap Chapel in Gaden Monastery
His Holiness the Dalai Lama visited the Dharma protector Setrap’s chapel in Gaden Shartse Monastery, South India. Here we see His Holiness consecrating the chapel with prayers. How beautiful!
(By Tsem Rinpoche)
Dharma protector practice is widely believed to be a subsidiary practice of Tibetan Buddhism that has become wildly popular both within lay and monastic circles. Hence, every Tibetan institution has their own Dharma protector to safeguard the organisation and its interests. This is also seen within the great monastic establishments of Tibet. In fact, every Tibetan Buddhist monastery (lachi), college (dratsang) and fraternity (khangtsen) has its own protector.
Setrap is well-known as the protector of Gaden Shartse, while on the other hand, Palden Lhamo is the protectress of Gaden Jangtse. As for Sera Mey, their protector is Thaog, and Tamdrin Yangsang (a form of Hayagriva) is the protector of Sera Jey. As for Drepung Gomang, their protector is Six-armed Mahakala while the protector of Drepung Loseling is Four-faced Mahakala. The monks of each monastery gather together to propitiate their Dharma protectors every month to request for protection, blessings, and assistance for the growth of the Dharma and the well-being of the sangha.
Since I am an incumbent of Gaden Shartse Monastery that propitiates the Dharma protector Setrap, and I also practice Dorje Shugden, this article discusses Dharma protector practice in Gaden Shartse and the close historical relationship between Dorje Shugden and Setrap.
Tsem Rinpoche
History of Setrap
According to the original fulfilment liturgy dedicated to Setrap, the practice originally arose in India. Around the 11th Century CE, Ngok Lotsawa Loden Sherab (1059- 1109 CE), an earlier incarnation of Dorje Shugden, travelled to India in order to study Sanskrit and the Indian treatises under the great pandits of India.
Ngok Lotsawa Loden Sherab
After spending a number of years in India, he was about to return to Tibet when the abbot of a monastery in Bodhgaya entrusted Setrap to this Tibetan master. The abbot clairvoyantly knew that an extraordinary protector was needed to safeguard the teachings as they were being transmitted into Tibet. According to the story, he entered the protector chapel of his monastery and made a request for a protector who would return with Loden Sherab to Tibet. It was said that only Setrap answered the request and was thus chosen. During his journey to Tibet, Loden Sherab used his meditative powers and ascertained Setrap to be enlightened, meaning that he had tremendous abilities to protect and provide for practitioners on the path to enlightenment. In Tibet, Loden Sherab enthroned Setrap as the protector of Sangpu Neutog Monastery, which was built by his uncle, Ngok Lekpe Sherab, one of the few surviving students of Dipamkara Srijnana Atisha at that time. Loden Sherab became foremost in the mind training teachings and established Sangpu Monastery as one of the most prestigious monasteries in Tibet. According to historical records, in its heyday, Sangpu easily had over 20,000 monks.
After the establishment of Gaden Monastery, Sangpu monastery became affiliated with Gaden when the monastery was absorbed into the Gelug tradition. A major fire broke out at Sangpu Monastery, which resulted in many monks from Sangpu transferring over to Gaden. These monks were housed in Gaden Shartse Monastery and they brought along with them the practice of propitiating Setrap. Over time and out of the many other Dharma protectors, Setrap was chosen by the senior monks to be the protector of Gaden Shartse Monastery.
Setrap and Dorje Shugden
Setrap statue in Gaden Shartse Monastery. Setrap has been the protector of Gaden Shartse Monastery for 600 years. Setrap, Dorje Shugden and Kache Marpo work very closely together.
The Dharma protectors Setrap and Dorje Shugden have a very close connection with each other. This divine relationship is most exemplified in the story of how Dorje Shugden arose as a Dharma protector. Upon the demise of his previous incarnation as Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen, Dorje Shugden arose in the form of a Dharma protector. During a fire puja performed with the intention of destroying Dorje Shugden, the powerful and ancient Setrap displayed coming to Dorje Shugden’s aid. At the time, Dorje Shugden was wrongly accused of being an evil spirit, and the great 5th Dalai Lama manifesting that he also believed so, instructed the powerful Mindrolling Lama (Mingling Terchen), the highest Nyingma Lama of the land, with great attainments and well known for his extremely potent fire pujas, to get rid of Dorje Shugden through wrathful rituals. During such a fire puja, the Mindrolling Lama compelled Dorje Shugden, through the power of mantra, to reside on a ceremonial ladle, with the intent of casting the protector into the fire, thereby destroying his form and liberating his mind. Although Dorje Shugden could not have been destroyed due to his already enlightened nature, Setrap manifested his support and close association with Dorje Shugden by emerging from Sangpu Neutog Monastery in all his fierce glory, travelling at the speed of thought, and emanated a grand heavenly palace in the sky to disturb the Mindrolling Lama, allowing Dorje Shugden to escape. As the ritual was unsuccessful, the lama once again tried to destroy Dorje Shugden in the ceremonial fire. This time Setrap manifested as a dancing dakini to distract the lama from his concentration during the fire puja.
The oracles of Gaden Monastery are well known to facilitate trance of both Setrap and Dorje Shugden. Here we see Choyang Duldzin Kuten in trance of another deity Kache Marpo, closely connected to Dorje Shugden and Setrap. This picture was taken in Dorje Shugden’s chapel in Gaden Monastery.
Setrap coming to Dorje Shugden’s ‘assistance’ is due to a number of reasons, primarily to show that Dorje Shugden was indeed not a malicious spirit. Otherwise why would Setrap, the emanation of Buddha Amitabha, aid Dorje Shugden, a supposed evil spirit to escape? As a matter of fact, Setrap knew all along who Dorje Shugden was because Setrap was one of the main protectors of Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen, recognised to be Manjushri himself. Therefore, although this story is the most recounted to highlight their relationship, their closeness spanned previous lifetimes as well.
The Relationship Between Dorje Shugden and Setrap
Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/RelationshipBetweenDorjeShugdenAndSetrap.mp4
Origins of Dorje Shugden in the Sakya Tradition
The practice of both Setrap and Dorje Shugden predate the currently held belief that they are Dharma protectors associated with the Gelug tradition. Setrap and his practice were brought over from India by the great translator Loden Sherab. Originally enshrined in Bodhgaya Monastery, Setrap offered to accompany Loden Sherab on his journey to Tibet, providing him with divine protection. Upon reaching Tibet Loden Sherab enthroned Setrap as the special protector of Sangpu Monastery, which belonged to the early Kadam tradition which was founded by Lama Dromtonpa, chief disciple of the Indian master Lama Dipamkara Srijnana Atisha. From there, his practice spread and was incorporated into the Sakya tradition, and at a later time the religious descendants of the Kadam tradition – the Gelugpa.
Similarly, when Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen arose as the Dharma protector Dorje Shugden, after his un-timely demise, he was enthroned and practiced first in the Sakya tradition. In fact both Setrap and Dorje Shugden are part of a protector triad called the Gyalpo Sum. The third protector is Tsiu Marpo, also known as Kache Marpo, who is now considered Dorje Shugden’s minister, and aids him in his work to benefit sentient beings. Therefore, the connection between Dorje Shugden and Setrap predates the practice within the Gelugpa tradition.
The Sakya Gyalpo Sum trio of protectors including Setrap, Dorje Shugden and Tsiu Marpo (a.k.a. Kache Marpo). These same three are being practiced within the Gelugpa lineage now.
The Gyalpo Sum were relied on heavily within the Sakya tradition. Many Sakya lineage throne holders were known to have composed prayers to them. It was the 30th Sakya Trizin Sonam Rinchen who enthroned Dorje Shugden in the Sakya tradition. Other Sakya throne holders of particular note are the 31st Sakya Trizin Kunga Lodro and the 39th Sakya Trizin Dragshul Trinley Rinchen, who wrote prayers to Dorje Shugden. Another striking point is that the 37th Sakya Trizin Kunga Nyingpo was considered to be an emanation of Dorje Shugden.
Gyalpo Sum on the bottom right, according to the Sakya tradition. They are Setrap, Tsiu Marpo, and Dorje Shugden. Click to enlarge.
The Three Brothers in the Same Mandala
The divine relationship between Setrap, Dorje Shugden, and Kache Marpo continued and spread to the Gelug tradition. This is exemplified in the mandala of Dorje Shugden. On the top most level is the sublime Amitabha, Buddha of Infinite Light. On the next level is the Dharma protector Setrap, himself an emanation of Amitabha, together with his entourage. And on the level below this is Dorje Shugden’s Five Families, surrounded by his entourage. And just outside of the gates to this level is the great minister – Kache Marpo. Similar to Setrap being an emanation of Amitabha, Dorje Shugden is the emanation of Manjushri, the Buddha of wisdom, while Kache Marpo is considered to be the emanation of the meditational deity Hayagriva. This again highlights the strong and divine connection between all three Dharma protectors.
Gyalpo Sum according to the Gelug tradition. In this case, Setrap (top) and Tsiu Marpo aka Kache Marpo (bottom) reside in Dorje Shugden’s mandala. Click to enlarge.
Enlightened Nature
The 39th Sakya throne holder Sakya Trizin Dragshul Trinley Rinchen who also practised Dorje Shugden
The enlightened nature of Setrap and Dorje Shugden is without question. This has been highlighted again and again by many masters. Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche in his work “Music Delighting the Ocean of Protectors” clearly states that Setrap is the unmistaken emanation of the Buddha Amitabha, and that Dorje Shugden is the emanation of Manjushri. This is not a claim that he makes lightly, and is backed up by his pre-eminent learning, practice and meditative ability. He states:
“A protector who exhibits a worldly aspect yet is in fact indivisible from Manjusri Yamantaka is this very Dharma Protector, Mighty Gyalchen Dorje Shugden. Then there is the protector of Sukhavati who is Buddha Amitabha in nature, the great Dharma Protector Setrab Chen”
Despite this, some still claim that Dorje Shugden is not an enlightened being. However, overwhelming evidence and advice, not only from masters of the Gelug tradition, but other traditions as well, state he is indeed an enlightened being. For example, the 39th Sakya Trizin Dragshul Trinley Rinchen, who wrote praises to Dorje Shugden also stated that:
“The one known as Dolgyal [Dorje Shugden] is not mistaken on the path to liberation, he is by nature the Great Compassionate One.”
By stating that Dorje Shugden is “not mistaken on the path to liberation” Sakya Trizin Dragshul Trinley Rinchen, is affirming that he is an enlightened being, not a worldly being as some people claim.
Setrap, Dorje Shugden, and the Dalai Lamas
We have seen how the Dalai Lama holds Setrap in high regards, through the fact that His Holiness visited Setrap’s chapel in Gaden Shartse Monastery, and consecrated it with prayers. This shows that Setrap’s practice is indeed a beneficial one, and that practitioners can rely on Setrap as their Dharma protector. The endorsement by His Holiness is not only limited to Setrap, but has extended to Dorje Shugden over many lifetimes.
Precious Dorje Shugden statue handmade by the 5th Dalai Lama
During the time when Dorje Shugden first arose, it was the great 5th Dalai Lama Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso, who composed a praise to Dorje Shugden as a Dharma protector that could be relied upon. Dorje Shugden’s previous incarnation, Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen, had been the 5th Dalai Lama’s Dharma brother, as both had the same teacher, the omniscient 4th Panchen Lama Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen. The 5th Dalai Lama had composed the praise after manifesting the realisation that Dorje Shugden was indeed an enlightened Dharma protector. In fact the 5th Dalai Lama himself created a statue of Dorje Shugden, to honour him as a protector.
Similarly, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, at an earlier point in his life had also composed a praise to Dorje Shugden, while at Domo Geshe Rinpoche’s Dungkar Monastery, entitled “A Propitiation of Mighty Gyalchen Dorje Shugden, Protector of Manjushri’s Tsongkhapa’s Teachings” highlighting the fact that he held Dorje Shugden in the highest esteem. A worldly Dharma protector would never be given such an epithet as ‘protector of Lama Tsongkhapa’s teachings’.
Given this fact, when His Holiness the Dalai Lama consecrated the Setrap Chapel in Gaden Shartse, he indirectly inferred that Dorje Shugden’s practice is also a beneficial one due to their closeness. As we have seen, Setrap and Dorje Shugden have an intimate relationship, not only due to the manner in which Setrap aided Dorje Shugden when he arose and the fact that Dorje Shugden’s previous incarnation of Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen was a strong Setrap practitioner, but also the joint history of their practice within both the Sakya and Gelug lineages.
Choyang Duldzin Kuten of Gaden Monastery took trance of both Setrap (left) and Dorje Shugden (right). Setrap takes trance in many Dorje Shugden oracles due to their close and brotherly bond.
Coupled with the fact that Setrap takes trance in some Dorje Shugden oracles, we see a greater extent to their connection with each other. When in trance of an oracle, Setrap’s energy is so fierce, that it can hardly be contained within the oracle’s body. As such, Setrap does not stay long while in trance due to the toll it takes on the oracle. Since this is the case, there are no oracles that primarily facilitate Setrap to take trance of them. However, it is well known that Setrap takes trance of those oracles who primarily facilitate Dorje Shugden to take trance.
Since both protectors are so connected, to say one of them is good, is to infer that the other is also good. That is why when His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama consecrated Setrap’s chapel in Gaden Shartse, endorsed Setrap and his practice as a beneficial one, he also affirmed the practice of Dorje Shugden through such close association.
Monks Swearing Not to Practise Dorje Shugden
Gaden Monks Swore Against Dorje Shugden in front of Setrap Thangka
Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/GadenMonksSwearAgainstDorjeShugden.mp4
Between 2008 and 2009, the monks of Gaden Shartse Monastery had to make a choice – whether to stop their practice of Dorje Shugden or continue with the practice as was taught to them by their lamas. As seen in the video above, lay officials from the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) delivered a teaching about the supposed harms associated with the practice. After the lecture, monks both young and old, and even senior Geshes, were asked to queue in line and swear in front of a thangka of Setrap that they would no longer engage in the propitiation of Dorje Shugden.
This whole situation is ironic and disconcerting on many levels, the main of which is that Setrap has such a close and brotherly bond with Dorje Shugden, as elucidated above. The second was that the Setrap thangka itself was sponsored by His Eminence the 25th Tsem Rinpoche, a lama who is now known as a staunch Dorje Shugden practitioner, in keeping with the practice commitments he received from Kyabje Zong Rinpoche. On another level, the lecture was given by lay officials, even though there were senior monks and geshes in the audience, who would have had a far better understanding of the situation. This shows the CTA’s lack of respect for the learned sangha members that were present. Ignorant of Dorje Shugden’s intimate connection to Setrap, and that they reside in the same mandala, the CTA officials nevertheless forced monks to make the oath. It is clear that these monks did not swear out due to religious reasons, but were pressured to do so due to political machinations. It really is sad that political manipulation could have led to such an event, which would never have occurred due to religious reasons, given the history and connection between Setrap and Dorje Shugden.
Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche and Kyabje Zong Rinpoche were both illustrious incumbents of Gaden Shartse Monastery. Both highly attained masters promoted the practice in the monastery. In fact, Kyabje Zong Rinpoche was the one who built the Dorje Shugden chapel in Gaden Shartse Monastery. The chapel is a building standing on its own, where daily rituals are performed to Dorje Shugden. This chapel is within the confines of Gaden Shartse Monastery. Why are the secular Tibetan leadership demanding the removal of Dorje Shugden from the monastery where both Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche and Kyabje Zong Rinpoche instructed their students to worship Dorje Shugden? If people did not swear out of the practice, they were expelled. No such rule existed within Gaden Monastery, Sera Monastery or Drepung Monastery at all before it was forced onto the monks by the Tibetan leadership.
All this goes to show that the protectors Setrap and Dorje Shugden share an intimate connection with each other. They were both worshipped at Gaden Shartse Monastery for over 350 years by the most illustrious masters and the normal monk alike. In fact the tradition of oracles in Gaden Monastery are known to facilitate trance of both protectors even until today. Both the practices of Setrap and Dorje Shugden were engaged in tandem, and both are extremely effective. In fact the practices have not created any problems or issues for the last 350 years. On the contrary, their practice continued among the holy sangha because they were so effective. It is due to the machinations of the Tibetan leadership, known as the Central Tibetan Administration, that the ban on Dorje Shugden arose, and created conflict within the monastery when monks were made to swear out of their practice.
Due to various political issues facing the Tibetan people and the leadership’s inability to deal with them, a scapegoat for these issues was needed, and this came in the form of instigating a ban on the practice of Dorje Shugden. The failures of the Tibetan leadership such as not making headway with receiving autonomy for Tibet from China as well as shortening the Dalai Lama’s life were blamed on Dorje Shugden. They claimed Dorje Shugden practice within Tibetans created the obstacles preventing Tibet from becoming autonomous and increased the karmic situation for the Dalai Lama not to live long and as well as many other problems were blamed on Dorje Shugden. Dorje Shugden would harm the Dalai Lama which is preposterous as well as impossible. How can anyone harm the life of a pure monk for starters? Ever since the ban was implemented, people were told that things would get better and their problems would be solved if Shugden was expelled, but this is not the case. Since the Tibetan situation is not improving, it shows very clearly that the Dorje Shugden ban arose from politics and has no real basis and the blame on Shugden for all ills is proving to be untrue. Setrap and Dorje Shugden were practiced together in the past, but then the Tibetan leadership evicted the practice from the Monastery, therefore to see His Holiness the Dalai Lama consecrating the statue of Dorje Shugden’s divine brother, Setrap, is heartwarming since their connection and the efficacy of their practices are so strong and beneficial.
Lamas and Geshes from Gaden Shartse
The following Lamas and Geshes (past and present) come from Gaden Shartse Monastery. They are known to have practised both Setrap, as Gaden Shartse’s Dharma protector, and also Dorje Shugden. These are only some of the many masters who practiced both Setrap and Dorje Shugden for the last 350 years in Gaden Monastery.
For More Interesting Links:
- Various prayers to Dorje Shugden composed by His Holiness the Omniscient 10th Panchen Lama (download PDF)
- Unique Dorje Shugden Oracle Statue in Kechara Forest Retreat
- Largest Dorje Shugden in the world
- Kyabje Zong Rinpoche’s Advice on Dorje Shugden’s Practice
- Dorje Shugden people
- I pray to what I want to
- Sakya Trizin’s Dorje Shugden Prayer
- They were not wrong
- The 14th Dalai Lama’s prayer to Dorje Shugden
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Many monasteries have their own Dharma Protectors to safeguard the organisation and its interests. Setrap is one of them , they will propitiate their Dharma protectors every month to request for protection, blessings, and assistance for the growth of the Dharma and the well-being of the sangha. Each and every monasteries have their own. Interesting read of this article all about the close historical relationship between Dorje Shugden and Setrap.
Setrap is emanation of the wrathful emanation of Buddha Amitabha, while Dorje Shugden is emanation of Manjushri. Setrap is an ancient Dharma Protector from the holy land of Bodhgaya in India. Sworn to protect the teachings and the practice was introduced to Tibet, and has since flourished. Many great Lamas and Geshes are known to have practised both Setrap, as Gaden Shartse’s Dharma protector, and also Dorje Shugden. They cannot be wrong definitely where Dorje Shugden is not an evil as claimed by the CTA. They knew the practice is very beneficial . has been the Dharma Protector of Gaden Shartse Monastery for the past 600 years. Dalai Lama visited the Dharma protector Setrap’s chapel in Gaden Shartse Monastery, South India. Dalai Lama even consecrated the chapel with prayers and sees Setrap as an enlightened being. Dalai Lama also endorsed Setrap and his practice as a beneficial one where he did affirmed the practice of Dorje Shugden through such close association. Interesting read may more people read this article to have a clearer understanding.
Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.
Thank you, Rinpoche for sharing the history and clear picture of the connection between Dorje Shugden and Setrap. HH the Dalai Lama blessed the Setrap Chapel in Gaden Monastery after all. He surely knew for sure the closeness of both Protector. Great lamas of Tibetan Buddhism, such as Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche, Kyabje Zong Rinpoche and many more had propitiated Setrap and Dorje Shugden for decades. The Dorje Shugden practice has been passed down by many generations of great lamas even the 14th Dalai Lama himself did composed a praise to Dorje Shugden . Its was Dorje Shugden that has saved and helped him to escape from Tibet during the Chinese invasion. Dorje Shugden is not an evil spirit but instead an enlightened Being who has taken an oath to protect Lama Tsongkapa’s teachings. Interesting read …..may more people this post to understand better.
Thank you Rinpoche for giving us a teaching on Setrap. Just like Dorje Shugden, Setrap is an enlightened Dharma protector. He is the emanation of Buddha Amitabha and a big brother of Dorje Shugden.
When Dorje Shugden was ‘subdued’ by some high lamas, Setrap came to rescue Dorje Shugden. Setrap is also residing in the mandala of Dorje Shugden. Dorje Shugden resides on the ground floor while Setrap resides on the first floor.
If the Dalai Lama accepts Setrap and sees him as an enlightened being, it means whatever Setrap does has not wrong. Therefore, Dorje Shugden cannot be an evil spirit because Setrap is residing in Dorje Shugden’s mandala and he did not say Dorje Shugden is an evil spirit.
Mantras are sacred verbalized words that invoke the protection and blessings of the deity to whom the mantra is ascribed. Mantras are also the manifestations of Buddhas in the form of ‘sounds’, hence the various mantras of Dorje Shugden contain the essence of the Protector.
Dorje Shugden’s main mantra 多杰雄登主要咒语
OM BENZA WIKI BITANA SOHA
Dorje Shugden’s mantra for peace 平和咒语
For gaining attainments through the energy of Peaceful Shugden, peace of environment and mind, harmony in one’s abode and dwelling area, and calming of disasters
OM BENZA WIKI BITANA SHANTI SIDDHI HUNG
Dorje Shugden’s mantra for health 福寿安康咒语
For long life, increasing life, healing of disease and protection from diseases
OM BENZA WIKI BITANA AYU SIDDHI HUNG
Dorje Shugden’s mantra for increase 增长咒语
For gaining great merits and increase of all necessary needs, both material and spiritual
OM BENZA WIKI BITANA PUNYE SIDDHI HUNG
Dorje Shugden’s mantra for control 控制咒语
Of worldly deities, negative people and nagas and for influencing friends towards the positive
OM BENZA WIKI BITANA WASHAM KURU HO
Dorje Shugden’s mantra to grant protection 庇护咒语
Visualize that you are in the Protector’s mandala, fully protected from outside interferences. Recite when in danger or for dangerous situations, for protection while travelling or when residing in dangerous/hostile places
OM BENZA WIKI BITANA RAKYA RAKYA HUNG
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videouploads/comment-1544345059.mp4
Dear friends,
Tibet has produced many powerful meditations, rituals and guidelines to help us gain spiritual protection, gain wisdom and higher states of consciousness. In general Tibet has produced many powerful methods for the growth of our spiritual evolution. Dorje Shugden is an angel, a saint, a powerful spiritual protector-warrior who originated 350 years ago when a highly awakened Tibetan Lama fulfilled his vows to become a special being to grant protection, wisdom, material needs, safety when travelling (normal and astral travel) and spiritual awakening. Both the Great 5th Dalai Lama and the current His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama composed short yet effective prayers to invoke upon the power and blessings of this special saint and protector. One can recite either one of the prayers that you feel suits you, anytime or even daily. When you feel a special need for help, you can recite either prayer anytime. When you are feeling down, afraid or just need a blessing, you can recite them. After reciting either invocation, it is good to chant the mantra of Dorje Shugden: Om Benza Wiki Bitana Soha.
You do not have to be a Buddhist or practitioner of any religion to invoke upon the blessings and protection of this special enlightened and awakened angel Dorje Shugden. He helps all without discrimination or bias as he is filled with compassion and love. Divinity has no boundaries, they help all who call upon them.
Enclosed are the prayers in English, Chinese and Tibetan.
May you be safe, protected and blessed.
Tsem Rinpoche
More on the Great 5th Dalai Lama and Dorje Shugden – https://bit.ly/2w7KHv6
More on H.H. the 14th Dalai Lama and Dorje Shugden – https://bit.ly/2QdaL4n
Chapel (Trode Khangsar) built by the Great 5th Dalai Lama dedicated to Dorje Shugden in Lhasa – https://bit.ly/2zBTd8M
—
亲爱的朋友们，
西藏产生了许多有助于我们得到精神庇佑、取得智慧和更高层次之觉悟的强大禅修法、仪式和教诲。总括来说，西藏产生了许多有助于我们在修行上取得提升的强有力方法。多杰雄登是一个天使，一位圣人和一名护法战士。他的崛起始于350年前，当一位高度觉悟的西藏高僧履行本身的承诺，化身为特别的护法，赐予我们守护、智慧、物质需要、出入平安（平日外游和神游时）和灵修上的觉醒。任何人都可以随时随地在任何时候念诵适合自己的祈愿文。当你需要特别的帮助时，你可以随时念诵任何一篇祈愿文。当你感到沮丧、恐惧或仅是需要加持时，你也可以持诵这些祈愿文。在念诵任何祈请文后，你应该接着念诵多杰雄登的心咒：嗡 班杂 维格 毗札那 娑哈 Om Benza Wiki Bitana Soha。
要祈请多杰雄登这位特殊、觉悟和觉醒的天使赐予加持和庇佑，你无需是佛教徒或任何宗教的修行者。他总是没有分别或偏见，充满慈悲和慈爱地帮助一切众生。神圣是没有界限的，圣者会帮助有求于他的任何人。
以下附上英文、中文和藏文的祈愿文。
愿你平安，常受庇护和加持。
尊贵的詹杜固仁波切
更多关于第五世达赖尊者和多杰雄登护法的内容 — https://bit.ly/2zsC3tG
更多关于第十四世达赖尊者和多杰雄登护法的内容 — https://bit.ly/2r4aaDN
第五世达赖尊者为多杰雄登护法在拉萨建造的护法殿（布旦康萨）— https://bit.ly/2zBTd8M
Divination (‘mo’) Text by Dorje Shugden
This is an important divination (‘mo’) text composed by Dorje Shugden himself. Dorje Shugden took trance of the Choyang Dulzin oracle lama, the senior oracle of Gaden Shartse Monastery, and instantly on the spot composed this text within two hours.
The divination text contains information on how to use dice to do divination for the future and is known to be highly accurate. When practitioners use this text, they will be in direct contact with Dorje Shugden to get answers to questions about the future. It is for those who have good samaya with Dorje Shugden and are free of the eight worldly dharmas to be of benefit to others in divining the future.
Tsem Rinpoche
DS-MO-choyang.pdf
Be blessed with these rare videos featuring explanation and advice about Dorje Shugden practice by His Holiness Kyabje Zong Rinpoche in his own voice. The teaching was requested by Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen, one of the earliest masters who taught Tibetan Buddhism in the West.
Video 1: H.H. Kyabje Zong Rinpoche Explains Dorje Shugden Initiation and Benefits (With English Subtitles)
Kyabje Zong Rinpoche was an erudite scholar, ritual master and practitioner of the highest degree from Tibet. At the request of Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen, one of the pioneers who taught Tibetan Buddhism in America, Kyabje Zong Rinpoche gives clear explanation and advice about the life-entrustment initiation of Dorje Shugden and how to go about the practice and get the maximum benefits in this video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzFMvlxAqtc&feature=youtu.be
Video 2: H.H. Kyabje Zong Rinpoche speaks on the History and Lineage of Dorje Shugden (With English Subtitles)
In this video, an erudite scholar, ritual master and practitioner of the highest degree from Tibet, Kyabje Zong Rinpoche talks about the incarnation lineage of Dorje Shugden and how the practice arose, with examples of Dorje Shugden’s previous lives that reveal his powerful spiritual attainments and contributions. This very rare teaching was given at the request of Kyabje Zong Rinpoche’s student, Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen, one of the pioneers who taught Buddhism in the West to many disciples since the 1970s.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sIzKSJgK618&feature=youtu.be
For more information: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/kyabje-zong-rinpoches-advice-on-dorje-shugdens-practice.html
His Holiness the 10th Panchen Lama
Tibetans commonly refer to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and His Holiness 10th Panchen Lama as the “sun and moon” of Tibetan Buddhism. They are the center of Tibetan Buddhist civilization, which draws to its sphere of influence millions of non-Tibetan practitioners. The Panchen Lama’s incarnation line began with the 16th abbot of Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen (1570 – 1662). He was bestowed the title of Panchen Lama by His Holiness the 5th Dalai Lama after being declared as an emanation of Amitabha.
After being given the title, his three previous incarnations were posthumously also bestowed the title, making Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen the 4th Panchen Lama. He became a teacher to many Tibetans, Bhutanese and Mongolian religious figures, including His Holiness the 4th and 5th Dalai Lamas, and the 1st Jetsun Dampa of Mongolia. A prolific author, Chokyi Gyeltsen is credited with over a hundred compositions, including a number of commentaries and ritual texts that remain central in the Gelukpa tradition today. Along with his role as a teacher of the Dharma, the Panchen Lamas are usually responsible for the recognition of the rebirths of the Dalai Lamas, and vice versa.
The 10th Panchen Lama, Lobsang Trinley Lhundrub Chokyi Gyeltsen (19 February 1938 – 28 January 1989) continued both the spiritual and political roles of his predecessors. His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, his contemporary, was even heard to say and echo the Panchen Lama’s own words that the Dalai Lama would safeguard Tibet from the outside while the Panchen Lama would safeguard Tibet from the inside, as he never left Tibet after the political troubles of 1959. He was truly loved by the Tibetans, all the way until his passing. When he taught, thousands of people would attend, not only from his own Gelug lineage, but masters and practitioners from all traditions of Tibetan Buddhism.
At his sprawling monastery of Tashi Lhunpo, he has a special chapel specifically dedicated to Dorje Shugden, where prayers and rituals are performed on a daily basis. In his great omniscience the Panchen Lama held Dorje Shugden as the principal Dharma protector of the monastery. He also personally propitiated Dorje Shugden among other Dharma protectors, and even wrote extensive prayers and rituals to Dorje Shugden. These rituals and prayers are contained within his ‘sung bum’ or collected works, which are provided here. As such a great lama, with an erudite and clear understanding of the Buddhist scriptures, a teacher to millions in both Tibet and China, from an established incarnation line and an emanation of the Buddha Amitabha, he could not be mistaken about his practice of Dorje Shugden.
His Holiness 10th Panchen Lama is known for his composition of commentaries and practice texts that are still in use by contemporary Buddhist practitioners both in Tibet and across the world. One of these is a powerful ritual composition propitiating the compassionate Dorje Shugden.
Upon the request by Acharya Lobsang Jangchub to compose a shorter version of the prayer (sadhana) for the exhortation of activities of Dorje Shugden, Panchen Lama immediately composed an abbreviate form of Dorje Shugden’s Kangsol. This text is entitled “Manjunatha’s (Tsongkapa) Lineage protector Dorje Shugden and five forms wrathful propitiations and confessional prayers and fulfilment of activities rites” or “Melodious sound of Accomplishment of the Four Activities” for short. Once the prayers were completed, he had signs and strong feelings that Dorje Shugden has been working hard to protect the Buddhadharma in general and the lineage of Lama Tsongkhapa specifically.
Mirroring the abilities of one of his earlier incarnations, Khedrub Je, a disciple of Lama Tsongkhapa and master of both sutra and tantra, the Panchen Lama used his compositional skill and poetic prowess to create a masterful sadhana. Worthy of note is a praise in which the first letter of each verse is a Tibetan vowel. Such compositions are rarely seen, and have historically only been used when propitiating senior Dharma protectors such as Palden Lhamo and Kalarupa.
The Panchen Lama also stated that while composing the Dorje Shugden sadhana (prayers) he was filled with a sense of happiness and bliss. He ends the composition with not only his official title but his ordination name, Tenzin Trinley Jigme Choje Wangchuk, endorsing the validity of his work. He composed the sadhana in his own Tashi Lhunpo monastery while in the Hall of Clear Light and Bliss.
See the Panchen Lama’s writings and download: https://bit.ly/2KIfeXb
For the first time available, Dorje Shugden and his entourage of 32 assistants of his mandala.
Dorje Shugden is a powerful protector deity who is also an emanation of Manjushri, a wisdom bestowing Buddha. Therefore, he has great ability to help us to progress further on the spiritual path. He does this by helping us to overcome obstacles and problems for the modern individual.
Due to his enlightened nature, Dorje Shugden is able to manifest 32 deities and within the same abode resides Setrap and Kache Marpo:-
1. 5 Dorje Shugden families or emanations. They consists of the following:-
– Dulzin Dorje Shugden, which performs activities to eliminate inner and outer obstacles.
– Shize, which performs activities to pacify all illnesses and disease.
– Gyenze, which performs activities to increase all desirable material and spiritual wealth.
– Wangze, which performs activities to control difficult people and circumstances.
– Trakze, which performs activities to wrathfully eliminate all insurmountable obstacles and life-threatening situations.
2. 9 Mothers. They represent protection of the five senses and developing control of the four elements. These are all attributes that signify their ability to assist tantric practitioners with their higher meditations.
3. 8 Guiding Monks. They represent the Eight Great Bodhisattvas (Avalokiteshvara, Manjushri, Vajrapani, Samantabhadra, Maitreya, Kshitigarbha, Akashagarbha, Sarva-nivarana-viskambini) and they bring about the growth of the Dharma, through the Sangha, Dharma practitioners and Dharma establishments.
4. 10 Youthful & Wrathful Attendants. They represent the ten wrathful attendants to avert inner and outer obstacles. They are beings who are from Mongolia, China, Kashmir, India, Bengali, etc.
5. Setrap. He is a senior Dharma Protector from India and an emanation of Amitabha Buddha. He had enthroned Dorje Shugden as an authentic Dharma Protector. Therefore, he also resides within the same mandala of Dorje Shugden.
6. Kache Marpo. He is not an emanation of Dorje Shugden but he is still an enlightened Dharma Protector in his own right. He was originally known as Tsiu Marpo of Samye Monastery. However, he has placed himself under the service of Dorje Shugden as his chief minister, performing many activities in order to protect and benefit practitioners. Therefore, he stands guard at the main entrance of Dorje Shugden’s mandala. He often takes trance of qualified mediums to speak.
7. Namkar Barzin. He is the reincarnation of an old Mongolian monk and when he passed away in Phari area of Tibet, his spirit was placed as a powerful assistant of Dorje Shugden. He guards and protects buildings and great institutions especially those that benefit others. He rides on a mythical Gyaling animal that resembles a goat but with scales.
These sacred images are available on *Vajrasecrets. They are made of high quality alloy and are one of a kind. They are based on the lineage of His Holiness Panchen Rinpoche’s monastery, Tashilhunpo in Shigatse, Tibet. In fact, the iconography of these statues are based on detailed photographs taken by H. E. Tsem Rinpoche during a trip to Tashilhunpo’s protector chapel. These are based exactly as the 10th Panchen Lama’s personal collection.
Dorje Shugden mandala: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=131570
Dorje Shugden’s benefit and practice: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=62422
Dorje Shugden’s origins: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=106424
Dorje Shugden chapel in His Holiness Panchen Rinpoche’s Tashilhunpo Monastery in Tibet: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=68698
*Stand not included
Amazing post!!!!!
Dear friends, For months we have been working on this BEAUTIFUL and meaningful mural in Kathmandu, Nepal. Please click here to enjoy the many stunning pictures of this mural: https://bit.ly/2LgOj8J
Tsem Rinpoche
Sakya tradition’s thangka of Dorje Shugden sitting on a throne within his palace with his four emanations and high Sakya Lamas nearby. Tsem Rinpoche
Antique Pelden Lhamo thangka with sacred Dorje Shugden at the bottom right. Can see Tsongkapa and Guru Rinpoche on the top also. Beautiful and holy.
Great message every Tibetan especially must read!
Every practitioner knows the strong relationship between Setrap and Dorje Shugden. Both Setrap and Dorje Shugden are in the same mandala. It is illogical that Setrap being accepted and Dorje Shugden being banned. In this article, H.H. the Dalai Lama is blessing an enlightened Dharma protector who is like a brother to Dorje Shugden. As we believe in the divine power of the enlightened Setrap, we will also see that by virtue of association, Dorje Shugden practice is beneficial and safe for us to practice too. Thank you Rinpoche and blog team for this article. ?
H.H Dalai Lama is known to be the emanation of Avalokiteśvara, Setrap is emanation from Amitabha, while Dorje Shugden is emanation of Manjushri. To me, this three highly attain beings are always working so closely to protect sentient being by bringing dharma to sentient being in different levels and age of time
Setrap have very close relationship with Dorje Shugden since Ngok Lotsawa Loden Sherab . Setrap was brought by Dorje Shugden’s previous reincarnation to Tibet, and, when Dorje Shugden became a dharma protector, the way Setrap “protect” Dorje Shugden was like introduce to the world about Dorje Shugden.
It is very well said in this article that, Setrap as a well-known protector of Tibet, which was worship in Sakya lineage and also Gelugpa lineage will not “save” Dorje Shugden during the fire puja is Dorje Shugden is not enlighten. Why would Setrap save some evil spirit that would harm sentient beings? Same as the 5th Dalai Lama, if Dorje Shugden is not enlightened, the 5th Dalai Lama will not wrote any praise to Dorje Shugden.
Dorje Shugden and Setrap are both appear in Sakya lineage and Gelugpa lineage, thus, to say Dorje Shugden is sectarian was not true
In the video, where the monks have to swear not to connect to Dorje Shugden, to me it is ridiculous and the swore session was not valid. The Monks have to hear lecture from lay person about Dorje Shugden. Gaden Shartse Monastery was known to be place where lots of highly learned monks reside in. CTA did this not only disrespect to the monks, also have shown their disrespect on dharma and have cause harm to the Buddhism. More ironic is to swear infront of Setrap Thangka sponsored by H.E Tsem Rinpoche who is staunch Dorje Shugden’s practitioner.
Thus, believe in Dorje Shugden, the dharma and not followed blindly what have CTA said is to protect the dharma from being contaminated by politic purposes.
Both Setrap and Dorje Shugden are in the same mandala. It is illogical that Setrap being accepted and Dorje Shugden being banned. If Dorje Shugden is a spirit, Setrap as enlightened being would have recognised Dorje Shugden as a spirit and not assist Dorje Shugden to arose as a Dharma Protector. If Dorje Shugden is a spirit, are you saying that those lineage master such like Kyabje Trijang Dorje Chang and Kyabje Zong Dorje Chang all are wrong. If they were wrong to follow Dorje Shugden would that not mean their whole lineage of teachings was impure? But Kyabje Trijang Dorjechang was the root guru and junior tutor of the 14th Dalai Lama for forty years. So, where is the logic? For those who wanted to understand more about Dorje Shugden and how he benefiting us , please read Music Delighting the Ocean of Protectors
After reading this article I am perplexed as to why Setrap is accepted while Dorje Shugden is banned. Both these two great Dharma Protectors have a close relationship and they live in the same mandala. If Dorje Shugden is an evil spirit Setrap would not have helped Him. There is also no evidence to prove that the practice of Dorje Shugden will cause harm and bring ill effects. On the contrary, practitioners of Dorje Shugden have benefited from their practice. This clearly shows that the ban on Dorje Shugden is politically motivated. Hopefully those people who are against the practice of Dorje Shugden will come to their senses and the ban will be lifted.
Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this informative article. It will help to clear the controversy surrounding the practice of Dorje Shugden which has been circulating around.
This is an interesting article about the relationship between Setrap and Dorje Shugden which can be traced back to 11th Century CE where Setrap was being entrusted to protect Ngok Lotsawa Loden Sherab back to Tibet from India.
In later stage, we can see clearly that Setrap is in Dorje Shugden’s Mandala and located on top level of Dorje Shugden. Another significant point to support the practice of Dorje Shugden is beneficial to us is H.H. Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche, who was the junior tutor of H.H. the 14th Dalai Lama, composed Music Delighting The Ocean of Protector, which is the precious teaching about the Dharma Protector Dorje Shugden. Besides, an erudite great master, H.E. Kyabje Dagom Rinpoche, has Incorporated Dorje Shugden as one of the main Protectors in the magnificent Gelugpa Guru Tree.
There are so many evidence to show Dorje Shugden is an enlightened being even Setrap has given supports and protect Dorje Shugden in the past. If we choose not to believe all these, then all the great lineage masters are wrong and the dharma may not growth for the benefit of many others.
May everyone be blessed by The Wisdom Buddha, Manjushri, and the emanation of Manjushri, World Peace Dharma Protector Dorje Shugden, have clarity of mind to seek for the truth.
Setrap is highly respected by monasteries and high lama as the protector of Gaden Shartse. He is the enlightened protector, emanation of Amitabha and Setrap protected Loden Sherab to bring the Tibetan teaching to Tibet.
At the same time, we can also see that Setrap has very close relationship with Dorje Shugden. During the fire puja to destroy Dorje Shugden, Setrap appeared and helped Dorje Shugden to escape. If Dorje Shugden is a spirit, why would Setrap, ie the enlightened protector will help to rescue Dorje Shugden?
Besides, in the Sakya and Gelug lineage, we can also see the close relationship between Setrap, Dorje Shugden and Kache Marpo. If Dorje Shugden is a spirit, it is definitely not possible to be included in the thangka for both Sakya and Gelug tradition together with other enlightened being like Setrap.
HH Dalai Lama blessed the Setrap Chapel in Gaden Shartse. Since Setrap is so close with Dorje Shugden, if Dorje Shugden is a spirit, why would HH still bless Setrap Chapel? Not logical right?
From all the facts above, I can confidently conclude that Dorje Shugden is not a spirits.
金甲衣护法一直都被受各寺院与高僧们所尊敬。它是甘丹寺的护法。金甲衣护法是证悟的护法，阿弥陀佛的化身，也是帮助译师罗定舍拉尊者把佛法从印度传到西藏的主要功臣。
多杰雄登与金甲衣护法之间自古就有着十分密切的关系。当敏珠林喇嘛想要用火供来消灭多杰雄登时，金甲衣护法也出现帮助多杰雄登护法。这也让大家意识到多杰雄登不是邪灵。
此外，在萨迦和格鲁派传承里，多杰雄登与金甲衣护法都在同一个曼达拉里。如果多杰雄登是邪灵，它怎么可能会和证悟护法一起在同一个曼达拉和唐卡呢？
至尊第十四世达赖喇嘛前往金甲衣护法殿加持金甲衣护法像，而金甲衣护法又和多杰雄登护法关系这么密切，如果多杰雄登是邪灵，怎么可能至尊达赖喇嘛会加持金甲衣护法殿呢？对一些对多杰雄登护法有疑惑或误解的人，可以思考一下。
大家可以点击以下有关多杰雄登与金甲衣护法的关系的中文视频，以便能更深入的了解：
https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/%E5%A4%9A%E6%9D%B0%E9%9B%84%E7%99%BB%E6%95%99%E8%AF%B2%E7%B3%BB%E5%88%97%E8%A7%86%E9%A2%91.html#teach08
The relationship between Setrap and Dorje Shugden is quite fascinating. It goes back to the time when the great translator Loden Sherab met Setrap in Bodhgaya and went back to Tibet with the Dharmapala as his protector. During the journey, Loden Sherab almost drowned when crossing a river but He was saved by Setrap. Now, it is well known that Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen was a reincarnation of Loden Sherab. One of his protectors was also Setrap. When Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen arose as Dorje Shugden, Lord Setrap came to his aid when a fire puja was done to destroy Dorje Shugden. It is said that the two are so close that when one is invoked, the other would also turn up.
In this article, H.H. the Dalai Lama is blessing an enlightened Dharma protector who is like a brother to Dorje Shugden. How ironic! The irony is that if Lord Setrap is worthy of being worshiped and propitiated, then why not Dorje Shugden who is so close to Setrap and whom Setrap would spontaneously help? This is because Dorje Shugden is a reincarnation of Setrap’s master, Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen!
Thanks Rinpoche and the blog team for sharing this article about the relationship of the two “brothers” of Dharma Protector and also the very pathetic situation happened in Gaden Shartse Monastery.
I wonder why a monastery system needs to be interrupted by politics. Dorje Shugden practice is a lineage given by high lamas generations after generations. Why CTA can just come and force the monks to swear out? Is CTA so powerful that they can disrespect the monastic lineage and history?
The enforcement of swearing out is something completely political, and politics should not dominance any religions. It’s sad that what happened in Gaden Shartse Monastery showed that any practise regardless the lineage can just be controlled and banned for political reasons. Even the most logic place in the world that the monks have to debate for, have no right to implement the logics. The monastery has just defeated the purpose to serve the public.
May the illogical ban on Dorje Shugden to be lifted soon, to revive the monastery and pure Dharma practice.
Thank you.
Everything that was practiced and still being practiced in Gaden Shartse Monastery such as yidam practices, Dharma protector practice, education system and so on came from Lama Tsongkhapa or his disciples since the existence of this monastery 600 years ago. This includes Setrap as the main Dharma Protector of Gaden Shartse Monastery.
If the practice of Dorje Shugden is wrong, then Setrap is not fulfilling its role to be a Dharma Protector of the monastery because a Dharma Protector’s role is to help the practitioners on the correct spiritual path. If Dorje Shugden is a spirit, Setrap would have recognised Dorje Shugden as a spirit and not assist Dorje Shugden to arose as a Dharma Protector. Therefore, it is not possible for Dorje Shugden to be a spirit which is one of the basis of the ban.
This is another angle I would like to add on to the relationship of Setrap and Dorje Shugden.
Basically, having read this article, it reinforces the logical inference supporting the validation of Dorje Shugden as an enlightened being and also its practice. Firstly, the high level of reverence for Setrap and recognition of its stature by His Holiness are apparent and it is even to the extent that the swear out entails Setrap being “brought in to fill the void” so to speak. At the end of the day, if Setrap is regarded as an enlightened being, then so must Dorje Shugden for they arise from that same enlightened space. Further, if there is still continued reliance on Setrap, then it is only illogical to regard Dorje Shugden as a spirit, when these two beings pretty much worked hand-in-hand since the beginning of time as reflected in history. In short, given the strong logic and historical backing attesting to the closeness of the bond between Setrap and Dorje Shugden, it clearly refutes the arguments of Dorje Shugden as an inferior being or practice. After all, is it even said to call one of them entails the calling of another. Thank you for such an informative piece to put things in better perspective.
It is important to note the close ties between Setrap and Dorje Shugden that spanned over past lifetimes. It gives a deeper meaning when we see His Holiness consecrated the Setrap Chapel in Gaden Shatrze Monastery. Since Setrap is an enlightened Dharmapala, an emanation of Buddha Amithaba, the close association between Setrap and Dorje Shugden also goes to show that Dorje Shugden cannot be evil, to say the least.
The relationship between Setrap and Dorje Shugden can be traced back to the time of Dorje Shugden previous incarnation, Loden Sherab, who brought Setrap into Tibet and enthroned Setrap as the protector of the largest Monastery then, Sangpu Monastery. As a matter of fact, Setrap is the personal protector to Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen, another of Dorje Shugden’s previous incarnation.
When Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen arose as Dorje Shugden but mistaken as an evil spirit, Setrap came to aid Dorje Shugden in a couple of occasions when high lamas then, who did not know better, use ritualistic power trying to subdue Dorje Shugden. And together with Tsiu Marpo (Kache Marpo), the trio was enthroned as the Gyalpo Sum in Sakya lineage. This goes to show the enlightened qualities of not just Setrap but also Dorje Shugden and Tsui Marpo beyond the Gelugpa lineage.
Today, when we propitiate Dorje Shugden, we also invoke upon Setrap, because Setrap resides in Dorje Shugden’s mandala. As we believe in the divine power of the enlightened Setrap, we will also see that by virtue of association, Dorje Shugden practice is beneficial and safe for us to practice too. Thank you, Rinpoche, for this article.
This piece clearly highlights the close connection between Dorje Shugden and Setrap over many lifetimes and across many traditions, and as a result, gets us thinking about why the Dalai Lama would endorse the practice of Setrap (and indeed the entire monastery of Gaden Shartse who propotiate him as their main Dharma protector!).
But at the same time, the Tibetan leadership vociferously claim that Dorje Shugden is a harmful spirit, which contradicts not only centuries of tradition but also is in direct opposition to the enlightened Setrap’s example and actions. If Setrap has “condoned” Dorje Shugden’s practice, who are we to say Dorje Shugden isn’t beneficial? If by calling upon Dorje Shugden, we also call upon his brother Setrap and vice versa, isn’t the Dalai Lama condoning Dorje Shugden too? (Case in point, this statue of Dorje Shugden made by the Great Fifth Dalai Lama himself) By honoring the great masters of the past – Kyabje Trijang Dorje Chang and Kyabje Zong Dorje Chang – aren’t we also respecting their teachings that Dorje Shugden is beneficial?
Thank you for this informative article which is definitely food for thought to clear up the confusion currently surrounding Dorje Shugden’s practice ?
For centuries, these two protectors have been practiced together by monasteries and khangtsen. For many centuries, the mandala of Dorje Shugden has Setrap in it. But it is now said that Dorje Shugden is a spirit. But if Dorje Shugden is indeed a spirit, then it would mean that monasteries were wrong, and many of the erudite masters and geshes were wrong because they cannot idenfity Dorje Shugden as spirit? If that is the case, does it also mean monasteries can make mistakes and therefore, scriptures taught in monasteries can be mistaken too?
That is a very serious accusation, and it would mean scriptures & teachings from monasteries can be wrong, and it would mean not safe for us to get teachings from. If Dorje Shugden is spirit, why didn’t the masters correct the mandala of Dorje Shugden and let many monks do their practice, and continue with the mistakes for so many centuries?
The logical conclusion of this close relationship between Setrap and Dorje Shugden can only mean Dorje Shugden is uncommon and enlightened.
Setrap and Dorje Shugden are very close. Tulku Dragpa Gyeltsen relied on Setrap before he became Dorje Shugden.
This thangka shows it very clearly
https://it.pinterest.com/pin/334533078548687800/
then the 3 Drakpas lineage of Dorje Shudgen, Setrap is prominently there which shows the 3 Drakpas relied on the Setrap practice.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/407223991297041689/
When Dorje Shugden first manifested, Setrap was there assisting Dorje Shugden, not to be harmed by the Mindroling lamas.
Lastly Dorje Shudgen and Setrap in the very same Mandala.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/224405993911892681/
Hence blessing Setrap’s chapel is in a way blessing Dorje Shugden, as Setrap being Amitabha and full enlightened will not associate with something that is unenlightened.
Very touch to read about how close the relation between this two holy protectors, Setrap and Dorje Shugden. It doesn’t make sense of why accept Setrap but reject Dorj Shugden. Everything CTA do is not logical. They made everyone in the monastery a fool. First, in what ground they think they are to stop all the Abbots, Tulkus, geshes, Lama and monks from practicing Dorje Shugden. CTA is just a group of greedy blood sucking people thinking of all ways to get money for themselves. All Tibetan turned into the victims of their money game strategy. Sad that so many people just follow and allowing them to do so.
With knowledge we can think deeper and understand better. This are knowledge with prove and logic. Why follow blindly instead of giving up a practice that can lead you to enlightenment?
It make people feel sad watching the monks in Shatze Monastery swear out their oat in front of Setrap giving out their practice of Dorje Shugden and separeted the sangha community in Gaden. Depite of this CTA action has no like using Holiness Dalai Lama name to order the sangha to do this. CTA is action has review more hidden secret about their failure and put the blames toward DS practitioner. This cruel action has to stop. It look sily asking Monks in Gaden swear out the oat give up DS practice. People know Setrap relationship with DS and they are in stay together in share same mandala. How can that effective the swear out ceremony. I am just wonder ordinary human like CTA using super mandance being to cheat and harm people and push their responbility to be blame.
Study, observe and thinking logically are essential to examine and solve problems that we face in daily life.
To check the credibility of a statement, we would need to check who is saying It, when, how, why and explore any possibility rather than just accept the words completely without studying.
To say Dorje Shugden is not good, there is no solid evidence. To ban the practice of Dorje Shugden is unacceptable, because no one get hurt by practicing it, in fact, the practioners are getting better in lives.
May more people get to know about Dorje Shugden, benefited by practicing and may all the floating doubts be poked like flying balloons.
Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this article. It is a beautiful story about Setrap and Dorje Shugden. But it is really sad and shame in the same time ridiculous to see that the Tibetan Leadership, CTA, force the abbots and the monks to swear that not to practice Dorje Shugden in front of the thangka, and yet, Setrap and Dorje Shguden are both in the thangka. Swearing not to practice Dorje Shugden by force, is like forcing someone to drop their Guru Samaya. I believe mostly Dorje Shugden practice are given to the monks by their Guru. My Dorje Shugden practice is given to me by my Guru, H.E 25th Tsem Rinpoche. Guru devotion is the most important in Vajrayana because of the lineage. Now, they force them to drop the practice, means not to listen to their Guru? Then where is Guru Samaya? Other than Guru Samaya, the Tibetan leadership themselves are creating the cause that Tibetan fights among themselves because of the ban, instead of uniting all the Tibetans. I see there are more negatives than positives by doing that. But why Tibetan leadership wanted to do that?
The ban has caused lots of lots of suffering. Even by only forcing the monk to swear in front of the thangka. What more that people put there discriminate and segregate the practitioners, treat them like alien? By the blessing of Dorje Shugden and Setrap, may the ban be lifted soon. _/\_
While reading this article, this came into my mind, swearing in front of Setrap for giving up Dorje Shugden practice, this does sound ‘funny’ for me, Setrap and Dorje Shugden stayed in the same Mandala, how can practice 1 and abandon another? Politics and religion are not supposed to overlap with each other, but unfortunately, in reality, the politicians always used religion to gain what they want, power, fame, money, etc. It is sad to see the current situation, hope the ban on Dorje Shugden lifted soonest and no more suffering were to impose to Dorje Shugden practitioners. CTA should also focus on improving the living of Tibetans in the settlement and not to create more harm onto them.
Despite all the blames made on Dorje Shugden for whatsoever excuses, it doesn’t seems to me that CTA is progressing very well in their works in regaining China. I in fact see more and more blunders and bad things being done for the disadvantaged Tibetans in India based Tibetan communities. Continued harrasments against those who prays to Dorje Shugden will not work as people see the reason behind the ban as unfounded and also illogical.
Thank You Rinpoche for sharing this article to everyone of us.
From this article, CTA = Central Tibetan Administration did lot of things that’s doesn’t make sense to me. Why CTA want to asked the Sanghas member who practicing Dorje Shugden practice to swear off not to practice Dorje Shugden practice any-more?
On the contrary：
My Guru ( Tsem Rinpoche ) come out with a lots of evidences to proof that Dorje Shugden practice is not harming to others and benefit lot of peoples. Here’s the link below :
https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/downloads/dorje-shugden-illustrated-story-graphic-novel.html
https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/dorje-shugden/the-dalai-lama-speaks-clearly-about-the-dorje-shugden-ban.html
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozkfjVRhRxQ&t=22s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v0Wb01RwLPM
Thank you, Rinpoche for sharing the history and the divine relationship between Lord Setrap and Dorje Shugden. Now I understand the existing of Setrap when Mindrolling Lama doing fire puja on Dorje Shugden. Both of them are Dharma Protectors and they are like brothers that live in the same mandala.
Since, Dorje Shugden is an Enlightened Being, why is He banned from practice? It’s very rude and impolite of CTA force monks in monastery to swear out. Obviously, CTA have created an ugly exacerbate religious cultures to the world, moreover it happened in Tibet.
The CTA meddles in affairs that are out of their boundary. For example: ‘Explaining’ to the monks why they should give up on Dorje Shugden. Many of the monks have been studying and practicing the dharma for decades, many of them are Tulku, Rinpoche, Geshe. Those CTA officials were lay people, as seen in the video, yet they have the audicity to ‘explain’ to the Tulkus present, to the Rinpoches present, to the Abbot present, to the Geshes present. I wonder who empowered the CTA officials to preside over the event.
Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this article. Every practitioner knows the strong relationship between Setrap and Dorje Shugden. They are like brothers and they are swift in assisting Dharma Practitioners. Many High Lamas, Geshes and monks also practice these two Dharma Protectors and we do not see any negative effects by practising both. I am curious as to why Central Tibetan Administration is allowed to go into monastery and force the monks to swear that they will only practice Setrap and forgo Dorje Shugden? What is the motive behind all these? Why did Dalai Lama allowed this to happen?
With folded palms,
Vivian
If indeed Dorje Shugden is not an Enlightened being, then how come He is ‘still around’? How come all the fire pujas and attained Lamas can’t do anything to subdue Him?
How can a monk who is an emanation of Chenrezig be hurt by Dorje Shugden? He is HHDL, a monk who holds His vows and a Bodhisattva can be hurt by another being? If we keep our samaya clean, hold our vows, listen to our Guru’s advice and do our practice well, how can ‘other beings’ hurt us? Especially if it’s HHDL.
If they can, why do we still need to practice Dharma? There is no difference with having Dharma and non Dharma then. Because this will also mean that what the Buddha teach and practice are wrong.
How can secular and non secular be mixed together? Who gave the rights to CTA to make the monks swear out? Who are they to make such decisions? They are very disrespectful to the Sanghas.
So many great Lamas practiced in the past and many came back and continued to practice. So if Dorje Shugden is not an Enlightened being and send you to ‘hell’ then how come those great Lamas came back and HHDL recognized them?
Since Dorje Shugden and Setrap are brothers and live in the same mandala, what does it mean when those monks swore out in front of Setrap’s thangka?
I strongly believe HH the Dalai Lama knows the relationship between Setrap and Dorje Shugden. Even the 5th Dalai Lama composed prayer for Dorje Shugden and with this it’s sad to see how CTA intervene in the spiritual matter and with what right that they are allow to instruct the ordained members to swear out?
There is no democratic in CTA governance but only by force. The miss use of power to force the monk to make oath is totally unacceptable and it’s a shame to let the world see how they disrespect the sangha members.
This is another unjust act from CTA that revealed to the world by using their political power to suppress spiritual practitioners in a holy environment.
Setrap and Dorje Shugden are incarnates of compassion and wisdom, and there is so much information about how close they are, especially when Dorje Shugden first arrived on the scene. That Setrap helped Dorje Shugden when certain lamas tried to burn Dorje Shugden using Fire Pujas.
For the Dalai Lama to pay his respects to Setrap, and Setrap is like an older brother to Dorje Shugden is highly indicative that not all is what meets the eye, with Dalai Lama’s decision to ban Dorje Shugden.
谢谢仁波切的分享。
至尊第十四世达赖喇嘛前往甘丹寺金甲衣护法殿加持金甲衣护法， 看起来是如此正常不过的事。 不过也在多杰雄登禁令课题上加上了一份矛盾。
在2008-2009年间， 甘丹寺僧侣被藏人行政中央威逼在金甲衣护法唐卡前宣誓他们将不会修持多杰雄登法门。 藏人行政中央完全无视多杰雄登在寺院的历史，也无视各位僧侣对于上师的三昧耶， 强迫他们放弃多杰雄登修持。 藏人行政中央所给的理由是多杰雄登会破坏西藏事业和会危害至尊第十四世达赖喇嘛的生命， 有、也说多杰雄登并不是护法， 只是一位邪灵。
不过大家所知道的就是金甲衣护法与多杰雄登关系密切。 多杰雄登、金甲衣护法与阿弥陀佛就在同一个曼达拉内。 金甲衣为阿弥陀佛化身而成的护法，是一位完全证悟的护法。 多杰雄登护法则是文殊菩萨的化身， 也是一位证悟的护法。
问题就在这里， 至尊第十四世达赖喇嘛前往金甲衣护法殿加持金甲衣护法像， 是不是变相承认多杰雄登也是证悟的护法？ 多杰雄登与金甲衣护法都在同一个曼达拉里， 不可能承认金甲衣护法却否认多杰雄登为证悟护法。 还是至尊第十四世达赖喇嘛根本就是认定多杰雄登是一位证悟的护法？ 只是形势所需， 必须有多杰雄登禁令？
其实根据历史来看过去的达赖喇嘛和现世达赖喇嘛都曾经为多杰雄登撰写祈愿文， 也称多杰雄登为无上的护法。 至尊第十四世达赖喇嘛前往金甲衣护法殿加持金甲衣护法像的举动也只是再进一步强调了多杰雄登也是一位证悟的护法。
愿藏人行政中央可以早日停止抹黑多杰雄登护法， 停止以强硬野蛮的方式打压多杰雄登修持者。 还给大家可以修持任何法门或是护法的自由。
谢谢
There is no way to deny the intimate relationship of Setrap and Dorje Shugden throughout the history of Tibetan Buddhism. The fact that His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama visited Gaden Shartse Setrap Chapel is a direct proof of such understanding.
Being a knowledgeable and erudite master in the Buddhadharma, His Holiness is definitely aware of the connection between the two enlightened protectors and their roles. Recognising Setrap is the same as recognising Dorje Shugden as they are both in the same mandala and “good partners”.
His Holiness has stated last year that practising Dorje Shugden will not harm his life, which makes perfect sense because His Holiness does not have the karma to be harmed. Dorje Shugden on the other hand arose to protect and not to harm.
So this beautiful picture is a very powerful assurance of this message.
The Dalai Lama, in visiting the Dharma Protector Setrap’s chapel in Gaden Shartse Monastery and consecrating it with prayers, shows us clearly his great reverence for Lord Setrap, recognising him as Buddha Amitabha’s emanation. Just as he recognises Setrap, the Dalai Lama equally recognises Dorje Shugden as an enlightened Dharma Protector in the prayer he composed at Dungkar Monastery, in praise of Dorje Shugden – “Melody of the Unceasing Vajra”:
“Glory of the wisdom, compassion and power of infinite Buddhas…”
I agree that the Dalai Lama would have been fully aware of the very close relationship of Setrap with Dorje Shugden , a relationship that began almost from the moment Dorje Shugden arose as a Dharma Protector.
Indeed the close affinity of the two Protectors can be traced back to that point in time when Setrap alone stepped forward to be the Protector of Loden Sherab ( a previous incarnation of Dorje Shugden)on his journey back to India. Knowing how different and harsh in climate and environment Tibet was compared to India, Setrap was willing to bear with it all. To me, it was at that moment that two enlightened beings, compassionate Bodhisattvas, made a pact to join hands to help sentient beings as Dharma Protectors. Hence that closeness , like that between twin brothers, has been kept to this day.
What is most amazing and inexplicable is that before 1996, it was alright for Setrap and Dorje Shugden to come forth in trance through the same oracle. But after 1996, it became wrong to have Dorje Shugden appear in trance, because overnight he had become a spirit and a demon. For 400 years the practice of Dorje Shugden had benefited innumerable people and brought them out of suffering. Then all of this was gone overnight.
Thank you Rinpoche for this powerful and thought-provoking post.
The fact that the Dalai Lama did this blessing recently in the midst of the Dorje Shugden controversy, showed that deep inside the Dalai Lama actually knows the true nature of Dorje Shugden, which is that of Buddha Manjushri. Setrap resides in Dorje Shugden’s mandala, anyone who has studied Tibetan Buddhism long enough will know this including the Dalai Lama, so it is impossible that the Dalai Lama was willing to bless the chapel who is the “accomplice” of a demon. When the Dalai Lama blessed Setrap chapel, it is the same as saying he reveres Setrap and believes Setrap as holy, so a holy protector cannot be residing in the house of another demonic being. Hence, this very action of Dalai Lama proves that Dorje Shugden is really an enlightened being as well.
This is a very powerful article, both Dharmapala Setrap and Dorje Shugden have established a very strong relationship with each other. As we can see, Setrap resides within the mandala of Dorje Shugden. Therefore it is absolutely illogical to say that Dorje Shugden is an evil spirit while Setrap is not. How can an enlightened protector such as Setrap himself, reside within the mandala of a spirit? Then it doesn’t say much about Setrap doesn’t it? Dorje Shugden practice is not political at all, but the Central Tibetan Administration decided that they won’t be able to have a good life if they don’t defame and politicise Dorje Shugden. The intention is crystal clear, if you have not done anything wrong, why are you so eager to prove to the world that you are right and others are wrong? Unless they are trying to hide something from the people…
This article gives a clear picture of the connection between Dorje Shugden and Setrap. HH the Dalai Lama blessed the Setrap Chapel in Gaden Monastery and he knows for sure the strong bonds between those two protectors.
It is too bad that the Tibetan Government, CTA does not stay away from religious matters and forced people to swear out from such a holy practice such as Dorje Shugden. No democratic government would do such thing!
Not only does Dorje Shugden have a strong connection to Gaden but also to the Shakya school with the 39th Sakya throne holder Sakya Trizin Dragshul Trinley Rinchen practicing Dorje Shugden. You can read more on Dorje Shugden’s long history within Shakya lineage here: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/the-sakya-lineage-dorje-shugden.html
Thank you for this helpful article. May the ban on Dorje Shugden quickly be resolved.
Dear Rinpoche
Thank you for this article that shows the close relationship between Setrap and Dorje Shugden. After reading and learning about the history of both protectors, it is ridiculous to see that lay Tibetan officers preaching to the sangha and ordering them to swear against Dorje Shugden in front of a Setrap Thangka that is sponsored by a Dorje Shugden Lama, H.E. Tsem Tulku Rinpoche. How ignorant these people are. They even have the audacity to preach in front of the holy sangha. The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) never cease to amaze me.
I do hope that the ban against Dorje Shugden practice that has caused so much suffering will end soon.
Valentina
The Dharmapala Setrap Chen is none other than Amitabha. Dorje Setrap is the Dharma Protector of the great monastery, Ganden Shartse and when the Tibetan leadership required the Ganden Shartse monks to swear against Dorje Shugden or be expelled, they chose the a thangka of Setrap for the monks to swear before.
I mean this must be one of the greatest irony because Dorje Setrap played such a big role in protecting Dorje Shugden from harm via the Mindrolling fire puja. This is not to say that that Dorje Shugden could not protect himself, rather it was a sign from a well-known and well-accepted enlightened Protector (Setrap himself) that Dorje Shugden should be praised not condemned.
It is quite odd that His Holiness the Dalai Lama should show such reverence for Setrap and not give any attention to the enlightened being Setrap has chosen to ‘serve’ with. Some have said that this precisely shows that the Dalai Lama intends to actually demonstrate how hollow the anti-Shugden rhetoric is.
Dorje Shugden was first enthroned by the 30th Sakya Trizin Sonam Rinchen as their protector, and the 37th Sakya Trizin Kunga Nyingpo was considered to be an emanation of Dorje Shugden. Gelugpa has later adopted Dorje Shugden as the main protector as well. As Dorje Shugden has been widely practised, we should be confidence that this practice is good for us and everyone. The ban who orchestra by CTA is mainly political driven as CTA is finding a scapegoat for their failure in free Tibet. CTA has used thousand of method to “Kill” Dorje Shugden but not one of them has any effect cos Dorje Shugden’s nature is Manjushri himself, which cannot be killed.
I agree with you Paul. Up till today, what I still cannot comprehend is that if the great lamas of Tibetan Buddhism, Sakya masters aside, the teachers like Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche, Kyabje Zong Rinpoche and many more of this illustrious Gaden Shartse Monastery had propitiated Setrap and Dorje Shugden for decades, and the practice has been passed down by many generations of great lamas, why were the monks forced to swear out of their practice? His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama himself composed a praise to Dorje Shugden earlier in his life after receiving divine advice from the oracle of Dorje Shugden at Dungkar monastery, so why is this sudden change of mind to say that one has made a mistake? How about Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche, Kyabje Ling Rinpoche who were tutors to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama? Do we believe the teachers or the student now?
I hope that the Dorje Shugden ban that arise because of political issues will be lifted, because if you look at this sample list of many masters who practiced both Setrap and Dorje Shugden for the last 350 years in Gaden Monastery, it cannot be that all of them can be fooled?
Dorje Shugden and Lord Setrab are Dharma Protectors in their own right, both are closely connected through the past life of Dorje Shugden.Having a very special relationship with one another so many lifetime after lifetime. Dorje Shugden is not an evil spirit but instead an enlightened Being who has taken an oath to protect Lama Tsongkapa’s teachings.
H.H.Dalai Lama said that we can practice Dorjeshugden ,hope the ban on Doejeshugden may soon be lifted to end those who had suffered and discrimination since the ban.May we all live harmoneously and peacefully.
Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this beautiful insight explanation of these two powerful Protectors of our time.
In the article, trances are mentioned and I would like to take the opportunity to add one more thing:
Before 1996, it was universally accepted that Setrap and Dorje Shugden took trance in the SAME oracle. This was accepted by EVERYONE from every monastery, whether or not they practised Setrap and/or Dorje Shugden. Everyone knew the Gaden Oracle takes trance of Setrap AND Dorje Shugden, and people followed both Setrap and Dorje Shugden’s proclamations when they entered into the same oracle taking trance of both beings.
After 1996, this was no longer the case and Dorje Shugden was called a demon. But Setrap continued to be accepted.
Yet, how can the proclamations of one being (Setrap) be accepted, and the advice of the other (Dorje Shugden) is not, when they inhabited the SAME body to give that advice at the time of the trance?
Furthermore, Setrap is universally accepted to be the emanation of Amitabha. How can a being whose nature is enlightened (like Amitabha) enter into the same vessel which is the oracle who takes trance of a spirit (which is what they accuse Dorje Shugden of being)?
An oracle who takes trance of a spirit would have pollutions in their channels which would not support the trance of a Buddha. So if an oracle is capable of taking trance of a Buddha like Setrap, they would not be able to take trance of a spirit which Dorje Shugden is accused of being. And vice versa; if an oracle can only take trance of spirits, their channels would not be able to support taking trance of a Buddha.
Yet, when this so-called spirit Dorje Shugden gave advice from the same Setrap-trance taking oracle before 1996, no one questioned it. So which one is it?
(1) Setrap is good and his advice is good, and he enters an oracle who also takes trance of Dorje Shugden and therefore Dorje Shugden is also good?
or
(2) Dorje Shugden is bad and his advice is bad, and he enters into an oracle who also takes trance of Setrap and therefore Setrap is also bad?
If we choose Option #2, then since Dorje Shugden is a so-called demon whose advice should not be followed, should we also disregard Setrap’s advice since both Setrap and Dorje Shugden spoke from the same oracle at that time?
If we choose Option #2, we should also force Gaden Shartse to stop praying to Setrap since he’s bad too, thanks to his association with Dorje Shugden. And the whole irony is the monks swore out of the Shugden practice in front of a Setrap thangka, sponsored by a Shugden lama (our Rinpoche) no less, oyvey.
Hence if you want to say that Setrap is good, then Dorje Shugden must also be good. And if Dorje Shugden is bad, Setrap must also be bad. Because it can’t be one or the other.
And all of this (and more) is why the ban becomes problematic and illogical if you really think about it.
Yes indeed it is very ironic!
Lord Setrap seems to be Dorje Shugden’s protector since the time of Loden Sherab. And then when Dorje Shugden was Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen he was propitiating Lord Setrap as his protector. So obviously Setrap will come to Dorje Shugden’s aid when the Mindroling Lama did the fire puja. But I believe all this was just a show because by right Dorje Shugden as an enlightened cannot be destroyed in a fire puja.
Likewise H.H. the Dalai Lama is certainly playing the divine play because how can the 5th Dalai Lama realise who Dorje Shugden is and then he composed a praise stating that he realise Dorje Shugden was indeed an enlightened Dharma protector and also created a statue of Dorje Shugden to honour him as a protector. And not only in the lifetime of the 5th, again as the 14th Dalai Lama he compose another praise to Dorje Shugden! Twice he praised Dorje Shugden as the Protector of Manjushri’s Tsongkhapa’s Teachings. So how can His Holiness knows who he is and then suddenly turn 360 and say he isn’t with so many untrue reasons which we can see today that they were not happening. So the only logical conclusion is that this is all a divine play, and why is what I and I am sure many have been asking. Why so much suffering, pain and misery for the spread of Dorje Shugden?
I can only think that it is to purify for something good and massive to come our way and for the next generation and the future. There cannot be any other reasons, it just doesn’t make any sense. Because if we think in any other way, it would make us really go crazy, to say His Holiness made a mistake because he is false is also false. Like what HH Trijang Rinpoche has prophesised we normal ordinary beings should not judge, condemn, blame of take any sides and believe that all this is for good reasons.
It is definitely sad and quite weird for Tibetans who are supposed to know more Dharma, to have a lay officer to ask monks to swear out in front of Lorf Setrap in Gaden. I think Setrap must be laughing. This tells me that many Tibetan people are actually not very knowledgable and sad quite hypocritical. They call themselves Buddhist but they do not know much about Buddhism. This is the part that amazes me.
Not many people of the close connection between Setrap Chen and Dorje Shugden. This connection has been around for many lifetimes, especially since Setrap was practiced by Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen, who went on to become the powerful Dharma protector Dorje Shugden. What is magnificent here is that it shows that the connection you make with the enlightened beings, benefits you in life time after life time. It was due to their close connection that Setrap aided Dorje Shugden when he first arose. Their relationship is a divine brotherhood, and this is exemplified in the tradition of Dorje Shugden oracles taking trance of Setrap. Setrap himself does not have his own oracle, but the Dorje Shugden oracles facilitates Setrap to take trance so that people can be benefited from his compassionate activity.
It is nice to read about this, and also how closely they are related in terms of practice. Setrap and Dorje Shugden were both propitiated for over 350 years together, and their practices were upheld by the highest of the lineage lamas. This is something beautiful and it should continue, as it does in Kechara, because it is something that can really aid one’s spiritual path towards enlightenment.
Thank you for this very insightful and logical Dharma teaching.
All evidence points towards Dorje Shugden being an Enlightened Protector. It is very disappointing to hear that all the power politics being played in entering the spiritual arena. The so-called government in exile is supposed to act and champion the welfare, rights and all good things for the Tibetan settlement in India. But sadly, the opposite is being done today and there is now more pluralism created through this needless ban on Dorje Shugden practice.
I would humbly request HH the 14th Dalai Lama to officially lift the ban on the practice and the CTA to work towards a reconciliation amongst the Tibetan community in India so that there is closure to this 20 year saga of needless suffering, schism and breaking of samaya.
Humbly yours,
Lum Kok Luen
Setrap chen is a grand protector and an emanation of Amitabha. Though his origins did not start with the Gelug, it is wonderful he was recognized early on as being very beneficial to many beings. I am greatful that Ngok Lotsawa Loden Sherab brought his practice from Bodhgaya, India to Tibet, and enthroned Setrap as the protector of Sangpu Neutog Monastery, which was built by his uncle, Ngok Lekpe Sherab, one of the few surviving students of Dipamkara Srijnana Atisha. Eventually he became part of Gaden Shartse Monastery, and has continued to benefit the monks of Gaden till this very day. His relationship with Dorje Shugden spans lifetimes and their closeness is similar to being brothers. They look out for one another, and wherever their practices are, they both are present. It was nice to see that His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama consecrated the Chapel in Gaden Shartse Monastery. We are indeed very lucky to have come across the practices of both Setrap and Dorje Shugden. An opportunity that is so extreamly rare. Thank you Rinpoche for bringing their practices to the world! We need their assistance very much!
Like you say, it is incredible that such an old protector deity like Setrap is associated with Dorje Shugden. The amazing thing is how intimately connected Setrap is with Dorje Shugden on many levels. You do not see this kind of connection in other protector deities that even down to sharing the same oracle.
This connection speaks volumes of the ability and quality of Dorje Shugden as not only as a Dharma Protector. The confidence in which Setrap is entrusting in Dorje Shugden, a so-called ‘new kid on the block’ is phenomenal. Dorje Shugden is indeed special on being highly attained lama-siddhas for many lifetimes and in one lifetime as Loden Sherab brought Setrap practice to Tibet.
It’s just a pity that politics have to come into play and destroy the reputation of Dorje Shugden and in the process drag Setrap into this political mess. It is with obvious reasons, the ban on Dorje Shugden is totally political and that the Tibetan leadership blowing something that the Dalai Lama said way out of proportion.
All the centuries-old evidence points to Dorje Shugden being an enlightened protector of Buddha’s teachings. I’m sad that the monks and many others had to, and till today, succumb to pressure from a government in exile that is around supposedly to act in the interest of Tibetans, including the large monastic community. [br][br] Well, in January this year, India’s top court has ruled that politicians are barred from using religion, caste, to win votes. Let us hope that the Tibetan politicians in India change their ways or they will have to face the law. Religious freedom is also enshrined in the Indian Constitution. [br][br] http://www.reuters.com/article/uk-india-law-religion-idUSKBN14O1CO
Hi Bob, Thanks for sharing the good news regarding India’s top court’s decision. Hope it also applies to Tibetan settlements as well. Using religion to win votes or to get any personal gain are totally against the spirit of buddhism, creates only harm, schism and separation. A true spiritual leaders/politician won’t do that, those who use this as their tactics to win votes definitely are not spiritual at all hence they don’t even have rights to say anything about religion. Hope more Tibetans would understand this.