Historic First Kalachakra Initiation by the 11th Panchen Lama
(By Tsem Rinpoche and Pastor David)
His Holiness the 11th Panchen Lama Bainqen Erdini Qoigyijabu recently bestowed the Kalachakra initiation at his New Palace near Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Xigaze (Shigatse), southwest of the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. This is the first Kalachakra initiation to be held publicly in Tibet/China in the last 50 years and the historic first Kalachakra initiation presided over by the young Panchen Lama.
The initiation formally began on 21st July 2016 with 40 monks beginning a closed-door observance of the self-initiation of the Kalachakra deity on Thursday morning. The monks from Labrang Monastery in northwest China’s Gansu Province and Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, assisted in this ritual every morning throughout the four-day event.
Over 100,000 attended the initiation and teachings, which included over 5,000 monks and nuns and 100 incarnated lamas and teachers. Amongst the lamas in attendance were His Eminence the 20th Denma Gonsa Rinpoche, His Eminence Nyitrul Rinpoche, Venerable Lama Jampa Ngodrub Rinpoche also known as Lama Wangchuk, and many other eminent masters.
The famous Lama Jampa Ngodub or Lama Wangchuk (with moustache) is sitting amongst Geshes and various other teachers.
At the start of the initiation, the Tibetan pilgrims tossed silk khata scarves in the direction of the 11th Panchen Lama as an auspicious greeting. The khatas quickly piled up before the crowd. It had rained the night before and drizzled intermittently on the first day but the damp and the cold did not deter the throngs of pilgrims and monastics from attending the event. Just before the afternoon session began, monks in maroon robes carried huge kettles and offered hot tea to everyone, which offered a warm respite from the cold. The monks also distributed refreshments of barley biscuits to the crowd.
In his opening speech, the 11th Panchen Lama proclaimed the rainfall to be “an auspicious sign,” and recalled that it also rained during the previous Kalachakra initiation that was led by His Holiness the 10th Panchen Lama. He added that the 10th Panchen Lama at that time had explained that the rain indicated purification.
The organizers ensured the smooth flow of this grand event by offering various conveniences for the public, which included huge screens displaying the proceedings happening on stage so that even those seated far behind could follow the event closely, a dozen temporary water stations and portable washrooms. In addition, 50 doctors and nurses from local hospitals were assembled into 11 medical squads stationed in various strategic places to provide emergency aid if needed. These are just a reflection of the careful planning and tremendous effort put in by the organizers to ensure the historic and auspicious event went without a hitch.
The Kalachakra Tantras
The colorful sand mandala recreates the celestial Kalachakra mandala, which is an essential element of the initiation.
The name Kalachakra literally means the ‘Wheel of Time’ in Sanskrit or Dukyi Khorlo in Tibetan. The Kalachakra Tantra is one of the most advanced Tantric systems within Tibetan Buddhism. It was one of the last great Tantras to be brought over from India to Tibet before the great Indian monasteries and centers of learning were sacked and destroyed by successive Northern invasions.
The Kalachakra Tantras are inextricably linked with the legend of the mystical land of Shambhala. Shambhala is a place on our earth that is described in the commentaries to be a hidden land ruled by enlightened kings. The king of Shambhala is both ruler and lama. The Kalachakra Tantra is the primary practice of the populace of this kingdom and the king is the one who bestows the initiations and commentaries of Kalachakra.
In fact, the Kalachakra Tantra states that it was Suchandra, an earlier King of Shambhala, who requested Buddha Shakyamuni to teach a method to practice the Dharma without renouncing worldly responsibilities. In response to his request, the Buddha taught the first teachings on Kalachakra in Dhanyakataka, which is near modern-day Amaravati in Andhra Pradesh, Southeastern India. Miraculously, the Buddha gave this teaching simultaneously with another teaching on Vulture’s Peak in the state of Bihar.
Apart from the king, ninety-six minor kings and emissaries from Shambhala who were amongst the retinue of the king also received the teachings. In this manner, the Kalachakra Tantra was first transmitted directly to Shambhala, where it was kept and practiced for hundreds of years. Successive kings of Shambhala, Manjushrikirti and Pundarika, were said to have composed the condensed Shri Kalachakra Laghutantra and its main commentary, the Vimalaprabha that is at the heart of the Kalachakra texts.
The Kalachakra yidam in the sacred embrace of his consort, Visvamata and the Protector of the Kalachakra tantras, Vajravega or Dorje Shug below.
Within Tibet, the Kalachakra Tantra has many lineages but amongst them, there are two main lineages, the Dro and the Ra. The Ra lineage descends from the Kashmiri master Samantashri and the translator Ra Lotsawa Dorje Drak. This lineage eventually found a prominent place within the Sakya School, where great masters like Sakya Pandita, Drogon Chogyal Phagpa and so forth upheld and proliferated it.
On the other hand, the Dro lineage descends from the Kashmiri scholar Somanatha, who traveled to Tibet in 1027 AD and his translator Dro Lotsawa Sherab Drak, whose name became synonymous with this transmission of the Kalachakra Tantras. The Dro lineage eventually became an integral part of the Jonang lineage through its founder Yumo Mikyo Dorje and Kunpang Tukje Tsondru. Then, the Jonang scholar Taranatha left his mark on the lineage by developing this Tantra with his commentaries and teachings.
Today, the Kalachakra Tantra is disseminated within all schools of Tibetan Buddhism but is featured prominently within the Gelug lineage. Lama Tsongkhapa is said to have received and engaged in the Kalachakra practice while examining all the points of this Tantra. He received auspicious signs and Kalachakra appeared to him in a pure vision, placed his hands on Lama Tsongkhapa’s head and proclaimed, “Concerning the Kalachakra Tantra, you have appeared like King Suchandra himself.”
A close disciple of Lama Tsongkhapa and the posthumously recognized 1st Panchen Lama, Khedrup Je composed an important commentary of the Kalachakra Tantra.
Bainqen Erdini Qoigyijabu, the 11th Panchen Lama
Within the Tibetan spiritual and political sphere, the Dalai Lama and the Panchen Lama are the two highest-ranking lamas. This tradition began since the time of the 4th Panchen Lama Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen, who discovered and enthroned the Fifth Dalai Lama Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso in the 17th Century.
The Fifth Dalai Lama went on to unify the country and was enthroned as the temporal and spiritual leader of Tibet. In gratitude to his spiritual master, the Dalai Lama bestowed the title ‘Panchen Lama’ on his own teacher, while posthumously recognizing the three previous Panchen Lamas. The Dalai Lama also established Tashi Lhunpo Monastery as his teacher’s monastic seat.
As a young boy, Bainqen Erdini Qoigyijabu was officially recognized and installed as the 11th Panchen Lama on Nov. 29, 1995 after a lot-drawing ceremony from the sacred golden urn in strict compliance with religious rituals and conventions. His given name is Gyaincain Norbu.
Gyaincain Norbu was born on February 13, 1990 at Lhari County in northern Tibet. His father and mother both had primary school education. The name ‘Gyaincain Norbu’ which means ‘jewelled victory banner’ was given by his maternal grandfather. Many auspicious signs were observed surrounding the birth of Gyaincain Norbu. For instance, the boy’s caretaker discovered a white holy Tibetan letter ‘AH’ on his tongue, which signified that the boy was a high incarnation.
Meanwhile, the official search for the reincarnation of His Holiness the 10th Panchen Lama began in June 1989. Based on the observations at the sacred lake, divinations and the identifying objects left behind by the late 10th Panchen Lama as well as a comprehensive observation of his countenance and other auspicious signs, three most brilliant candidates were eventually shortlisted.
Thereafter, the method of drawing lots from the golden urn was performed before the sacred statue of Jowo Rinpoche in the Jokhang Temple in Lhasa and Gyaincain Norbu was confirmed as the reincarnation of the 10th Panchen Erdeni. His religious name is Jizun Losang Qamba Lhunzhub Qoigyijabu Baisangbu. Through the instructions of several tutors and his own diligence since his confirmation, enthronement and ordination, the young Tulku had mastered most of the Sutras and Tantras by the age of 15.
He has since grown up to become the religious leader that he is today. He is currently serving as the Vice President of the Buddhist Association of China and recently celebrated the 20th anniversary of his enthronement at his monastic seat of Tashi Lhunpo.
The Significance of this Kalachakra Initiation
The 11th Panchen Lama is adorned with the bone ornaments of a tantric yogi of the Kalachakra tantras.
The Kalachakra initiation is filled with complicated rituals, visualizations and recitations. But although relatively young, His Holiness the 11th Panchen Lama was able to bestow the initiation for the first time in a calm, familiar and confident manner, just as he had done in previous lives. Apart from highlighting the strong connection between the Kalachakra Tantras and the line of Panchen Lamas, this is also indicative of the fact that he was groomed and taught very well by his teachers, especially his root teacher Jamyang Gyatso.
In fact, the Panchen Lama has a special chapel in Tashi Lhunpo Monastery dedicated to the practice, mastery and proliferation of the Kalachakra Tantra. All his previous lives practiced and proliferated this Tantra as well. So, the Kalachakra initiation is not something new for the Panchen Lama but a continuation of the practice from previous lives. In fact, the Kalachakra Tantra is a specialty of his incarnation line.
Moreover, the Panchen Lama is known to be the emanation of Buddha Amitabha and also the emanation of the king of Shambhala. Hence, there is a special significance for the Panchen Lama to be giving this initiation given the connection between the Kalachakra Tantras and the land of Shambhala.
In actuality, any lama or practitioner can receive the Kalachakra initiation, engage in the necessary requirements and bestow the initiation upon others. In order to give the initiation, one must first have received the initiation from a qualified Lama holding the Kalachakra lineage and then practice Kalachakra single-pointedly and engage in the fire puja upon completion of the required retreats. If requested, they may then give this initiation to others just like the Panchen Lama. Therefore, one does not need to be the Dalai Lama, Panchen Lama or any High Lama sitting on a throne to be giving this initiation. Any practitioner who has completed the requirements may give this initiation.
Therefore, contrary to the claims of some who say that this Kalachakra initiation is invalid because the Panchen Lama is not the rightful incarnation, it does not matter if the Panchen Lama is the ‘real’ or ‘fake’ one. As long as this young lama has done the practice according to the ancient rites and rituals as laid down in the texts, then the initiation is real and an initiation transmission was bestowed on the initiates. Therefore, it is illogical to claim that the initiation is not authentic and anyone who tries to do so is displaying a deep ignorance of the tantric teachings (specifically the Kalachakra Tantra) and how it is transmitted.
According to news reports, the initiation was state sponsored by the Chinese government and as such, the monks and the organizing committee had the resources to ensure the event was well-planned and successfully executed. Interestingly, the Chinese government is encouraging religious freedom by allowing and sponsoring an event of this nature. In fact, His Holiness the 11th Panchen Lama welcomed everyone to be a part of the Kalachakra initiation and there were no restrictions as to who could attend the teachings. This is a far cry from the teachings and initiations held in Dharamsala, India where Dorje Shugden practitioners are barred from participating by the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan leadership. This is enough to make one re-examine who truly has religious freedom and who is truly guilty of religious persecution.
With over 100,000 people in attendance, it shows that the influence of the young Panchen Lama is growing and will continue to grow even more. This in turn means that many Tibetans will become his disciples and therefore, the claim that he is a fake Panchen Lama will have less and less of a foothold. No self-respecting Tibetan would tolerate having their lama slandered with claims that he is false and a ‘fake’.
The ascending stature of the Panchen Lama will no doubt scare his detractors in Dharamsala because his spiritual clout will only grow bigger especially if he bestows the Kalachakra initiation on a regular basis. His influence over the Tibetans will eventually eclipse theirs because he is young, energetic and has the Chinese government as his powerful ally and patron. In fact, the 11th Panchen Lama is slowly but surely blossoming and reaching out to many more people and his detractors will have less and less of a basis to criticize him.
According to Tibetan Buddhist beliefs, if the wrong person is enthroned as a lama, the merits of the lama’s incarnation line would be detrimental to the pretender. Therefore, a false lama’s works and teachings will not grow and the lama himself will have a short life. However, as the current Panchen Lama is growing from strength to strength, this proves that he is indeed the unmistaken incarnation.
Over 100,000 people, both monks and laypeople, were in attendance
In fact, the success of this Panchen Lama goes to show that the Chinese government is able to groom a high Lama to be highly beneficial, and this is not the first time they have done so as we can see in the case of the 10th Panchen Lama. In the 1950s, the Dalai Lama had recognized his preferred candidate as the reincarnation of the 9th Panchen Lama, while the Chinese Kuomintang government enthroned their own candidate, Lobsang Trinley Lhundrub Chokyi Gyaltsen. The Chinese candidate eventually became much more famous and influential, thus forcing the Dalai Lama to recognize him as the rightful Panchen Lama and relegate his original candidate to be Panchen Otrul Rinpoche, which signifies that he is an emanation of the Panchen Lama but NOT the main incarnation.
It also logically follows that if the Panchen Lama’s influence is on the rise, this would also have a positive impact on the acceptance of Dorje Shugden’s practice. Historically, one of the main Protectors of the Panchen Lamas is Dorje Shugden and he is also the Protector of Tashi Lhunpo, the monastic seat of the Panchen Lamas. In fact, there is a huge chapel at Tashi Lhunpo Monastery dedicated to the practice of Dorje Shugden. Therefore, the acceptance and popularity of Dorje Shugden’s practice will most certainly rise in line with the Panchen Lama’s fame and influence.
Conclusion
By tradition, most Maha Anuttarayoga Tantra class initiations like Heruka Chakrasamvara, Guhyasamaja and so forth would never be given to the masses. This is because they are supposed to be given only to a select few, highly qualified disciples who have guru devotion, are able to hold vows and commitments, have completed the preliminary practices and whose minds are stabilized by the Three Principle Aspects of the Path. Hence, teachers would closely check and screen their students before giving any higher Tantric empowerments and in the end, only a handful of disciples usually qualify to receive the initiation. Thus, the giving or not giving of an initiation is done out of compassion, so that qualified disciples are able to reap the full benefit of these powerful practices and so that unqualified disciples will not have to suffer the consequences for not being able to maintain the commitments.
However, the Kalachakra Tantra is an exception because the initiation can be given to the masses and has various benefits according to the level of the practitioner. For the highest practitioner, he or she will achieve Enlightenment through this practice; for the middling practitioner, he or she will continue to practice the Dharma in this and future lives; and for the lowest practitioner, he or she will be able to take rebirth in Shambhala through sincere practice although they may not achieve high attainments. Lastly, those who attend the initiation but do not practice will have the powerful blessings of Kalachakra planted in their mindstreams so that in the future, they too may be able to take rebirth in Shambhala as well.
The mystical kingdom of Shambhala is geographically located on our earth. As such, we have a stronger connection to this place and it is easier for us to take rebirth there compared to other pure lands. Therefore, when the Kalachakra initiation is given to the masses, the imprints and blessings of Kalachakra are planted in the minds of the masses and the causes are created for them to eventually take rebirth in Shambhala.
That is the main reason why this particular initiation is given on a massive scale by the Panchen Lama who is the emanation of the Shambhala kings, whose sole purpose is to liberate as many beings as possible. No matter how exotic and elaborate the rituals, the Kalachakra initiation and practice embodies the spirit of Mahayana Buddhism – liberation of others and oneself. And the Kalachakra initiation given by His Holiness the 11th Panchen Lama is definitely an event to rejoice at, and can be seen as a powerful indication of the Dharma growing and spreading from China to beyond.
Video: His Holiness the 11th Panchen Lama Gives Kalachakra Initiation
Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/PanchenLamaKalachakra.mp4
More Pictures of the Event
The sacred thangkas of Buddha Shakyamuni and the Indian pandits of the ‘Two Supremes and Six Ornaments’ hang behind Panchen Lama’s throne.
Making a mandala offering to the 11th Panchen Lama
The 11th Panchen Lama Bainqen Erdini Qoigyijabu is ushered to the initiation canopy with the traditional accompaniment of ritual music, parasol, victory banners, incense and so forth.
The Panchen Lama is resplendent while presiding over the Kalachakra initiation with the help of assistant monks.
The 11th Panchen Lama engaging in one of the many rituals required during the Kalachakra initiation.
The young incarnation of Denma Gonsa Rinpoche is one of the many great lamas and teachers who are attending the initiation.
The young Denma Gonsa Rinpoche adorned in dakini robes while engaging in one of the Kalachakra initiation rituals.
The 11th Panchen Lama making the auspicious gesture of throwing rice into the air.
4-armed Chenrezig (central figure)
10th Panchen Lama Choekyi Gyaltsen (top left), Buddha Amitabha (top right), 6-armed Mahakala (bottom left), Tsangpa Karpo (bottom middle) and Dorje Shugden
The 10th Panchen Lama Choekyi Gyaltsen is widely regarded as the emanation of the Buddha Amitabha and for many lifetimes, the Panchen Lama line of incarnations have been the tutors of the Dalai Lama’s previous lives, who in turn are widely regarded as emanations of Chenrezig. Both Tsangpa Karpo and Dorje Shugden have been the protectors of the Panchen Lama for a number of incarnations. In fact, the 10th Panchen Lama himself composed special and extensive prayers to Dorje Shugden and this has been included within his collected written works. This shows that the Panchen Lama himself had the highest regard for Dorje Shugden as an enlightened protector and his powerful ability to assist sentient beings of this time.
Kalachakra (central figure)
Buddha Shakyamuni (top left), Dorje Shug (bottom left), Dorje Shugden (bottom middle), White Tara (bottom right)
Kalachakra means Wheel of Time or “time-cycles” and is also a Tantric deity or yidam of Vajrayana Buddhism. The name also represents complex meditation practices contained within the Kalachakra Tantra literature. The meditations contained in this tantric system has the great ability to bring one to complete enlightenment. According to the Kalachakra Tantra, Buddha Shakyamuni taught the Kalachakra Root Tantra in Dharanikota (near modern-day Amaravathi) in south-eastern India to the first king of Shambhala.
Furthermore, Dorje Shugden for many lifetimes as great translators and lineage holders had been responsible for the dissemination and preservation of the Kalachakra Tantra in Tibet. According to the long fulfilment puja (kangsol) text, Dorje Shugden at the beginning of the puja is called forth from the mystical land of Shambhala, the last great stronghold of the Kalachakra lineage and practice on earth.
For more interesting information:
- Various prayers to Dorje Shugden composed by His Holiness the Omniscient 10th Panchen Lama (download PDF)
- Panchen Lama’s Dorje Shugden Puja text
- Panchen Lama sungbum
- The Dalai Lama & Panchen Lama in India in 1956
- Nechung – The Retiring Devil of Tibet
- H.H. Gaden Trisur Lungrik Namgyal’s 90th Birthday Celebration
- My recollection of H.E. Guru Deva Rinpoche 忆念尊贵的古鲁迪瓦仁波切
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If you are in the United States, please note that your offerings and contributions are tax deductible. ~ the tsemrinpoche.com blog team
The historic first Kalachakra initiation by the young Panchen Lama Bainqen Erdini Qoigyijabu held publicly in Tibet,China. Awesome over hundred thousand attended the self-initiation of the Kalachakra deity and teachings. Among them thousand monks and nuns and hundred incarnated lamas and teachers in attendance were HE the 20th Denma Gonsa Rinpoche, HE Nyitrul Rinpoche, Venerable Lama Jampa Ngodrub Rinpoche and many other High Lamas. On the first day auspicious sign appeared with shower of rain. With over thousands of people attended this initiation , it proven that the influence of the young Panchen Lama is growing and will continue to grow even more and stronger. This also proves that he is indeed the unmistaken incarnation. This definitely have a positive impact on the acceptance of Dorje Shugden’s practice. Historically, one of the main Protectors of the Panchen Lamas is Dorje Shugden and he is also the Protector of Tashi Lhunpo, the monastic seat of the Panchen Lamas.
Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor David for this great sharing.
Wow what a great day …..the historic first Kalachakra initiation been held publicly in Tibet, China in the last 50 years. For most by H H the 11th Panchen Lama Bainqen Erdini Qoigyijabu. Many highly attained masters and incarnated lamas and teachers and more than hundred thousand over monks and nuns attended this auspicious event. Looking at those beautiful pictures tells us all. So many of them it’s a blessing for them. With so many attending this event has proves that he is indeed the unmistaken incarnation as he is claimed by some as false and a fake Panchen Lama.
With Panchen Lama as a spiritual leader, his influence made a huge impact on the Tibetans which is on the rise, this would be wonderful. In no time they might accept Dorje Shugden’s practice. Interesting read and blessing been able to see those beautiful pictures.
Thank You Pastor David Lai for sharing.
I rejoice to see the 11th Panchen Lama has started to teach, fulfilling his duty as a high lama. The Panchen Lama reincarnation lineage is as important as the Dalai Lama reincarnation lineage. The previous Panchen Lama was highly respected by Tibetans and Chinese, he was a very high lama. The current incarnation has learned from a very qualified teacher and thus he is also very qualified to teach.
I have seen a video of him speaking in Chinese, he speaks very well and he is also very charismatic. He is still young, I am sure he can do a lot in preserving and spreading Tibetan Buddhism.
The Library of Tibetan Works and Archives is in Dharamsala, which is broken into two parts. Upper Dharamsala is where the Dalai Lama’s palace is located with his audience room and main prayer hall. It is also the location of the Dialectics School, Gaden Shartse’s guesthouse, restaurants, tourist hotels and main tourist areas.
A short ride down takes you to the lower part of Dharamsala where the Tibetan government is located. It is the location of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile, Nechung monastery, the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, the Tibetan arts centre…it’s all in one area. And the reason why it’s split into upper and lower Dharamsala is because the area is mountainous.
The Library of Tibetan Works and Archives was established by the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government to preserve all the ancient texts – both secular and spiritual – of Tibet and in the process, translate them into various languages like English. This book, Overview of Buddhist Tantra, by Panchen Sonam Drakpa was one of the books translated into English. What’s very interesting is that the book very clearly says that Panchen Sonam Drakpa’s previous life is Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen, one of the five main disciples of Lama Tsongkhapa. It also says that after that, he was Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen.
So the book is basically saying that Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen, Panchen Sonam Drakpa and Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen – the three Drakpas – are of the same mindstream.
Now that’s very peculiar because if Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen’s previous life is Panchen Sonam Drakpa, the renowned composer of 45 volumes of Dharma texts, the abbot of three monasteries AND the 15th Gaden Tripa, the holder of Lama Tsongkhapa’s throne…if that’s the case, how can Panchen Sonam Drakpa take rebirth as Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen and become an evil spirit and have a negative mind?
Prior to Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen, he was Panchen Sonam Drakpa and before that, he was Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen, a heart disciple of Lama Tsongkhapa. How can a heart disciple of Lama Tsongkhapa reincarnate as the erudite master Panchen Sonam Drakpa, and then die and reincarnate as Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen…and then Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen, due to a bad and negative prayer, become the evil spirit Dorje Shugden? How is that possible? Logically, it’s not.
What’s incredible is that all of this was printed by the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives under the Dalai Lama’s guidance. They contradict themselves because on one hand, the Tibetan leaders say Dorje Shugden is an evil spirit. On the other hand they’re printing a book saying that Panchen Sonam Drakpa, whose later incarnation became Dorje Shugden, is of this illustrious mindstream.
So how can the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, which is under the auspices of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government, print the translation of a book composed by the previous incarnation of a so-called evil spirit? How can they then say in the book that Panchen Sonam Drakpa’s previous life is Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen, and his next life was Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen?
Prior to the Dorje Shugden ban and controversy, everyone in Tibet knew that Dorje Shugden is Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen, that Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen is Panchen Sonam Drakpa, and that Panchen Sonam Drakpa is Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen. The three Drakpas, they are one mindstream emanating again and again to benefit other beings.
And as we all know, Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen became Dorje Shugden so it totally doesn’t make sense to call him an evil spirit, then highlight all of his previous lives as erudite masters, and publish all of this information under their own library. So you can see the contradictions. You can read all of this for yourself in Overview of Buddhist Tantra, which was printed by the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives.
—–
OVERVIEW OF BUDDHIST TANTRA
GENERAL PRESENTATION OF THE CLASSES OF TANTRA,
CAPTIVATING THE MINDS OF THE FORTUNATE ONES
rgyud sde spyi’i rnam par bzhag pa
skal bzang gi yid ‘phrog ces bya ba bzhugs so
BY
PANCHEN SONAM DRAGPA
(Pan-chen bSod-nams grags-pa, 1478-1554)
O Choje Sonam Dragpa Pel! (Chos-rje bSod-nams grags-pa-dpal!)
In the vast expanse of Your bodhi-mind,
The mind that the Buddhas have lauded for as many as
one hundred times,
You have developed “merit” shining like the sun.
Through Your skill in learning, debate and writing,
As illuminating as one hundred thousand sun rays,
You have developed in You a complete knowledge of
the entire sutras and tantras,
Resembling a garden of flowers in full bloom.
The power of Your speech is like the sun;
The fame of your name has reached the three realms of
this world.
O Sonam Dragpa, the teacher of teachers!
I bow down at your feet.
In the vast garden of Your great teachings,
The intelligent young people gather for
The ‘six ultimates’ and the ‘four modes of transmission,’
Just as they are attracted to
The one hundred thousand types of nectar
Dripping from a flower of one hundred petals.
May I be able to experience
The taste of the secret tantra!
Panchen Choje Sonam Dragpa Pel (Panchen Chos-rje bSod-nams grags-pa-dpal), the holder of sutra and Vajrayana teachings, was a master whose outstanding learning and spiritual accomplishments are well known by all the learned ones in Tibet. His first incarnation came in the form of one of the five prestigious disciples of Lord Tsongkhapa (Tsong-kha-pa) and became known as Vinaya Holder (Dulzin) Dragpa Gyaltsen (Gragspa rgyal-mtshan). Then came Panchen Sonam Dragpa Pel (Panchen bSod-nams grags-pa-dpal), the author of the present text. The next was Nagri Tulku Dragpa Gyaltsen (mNga’-ris sPrul-sku Grags-pa rgyal-mtshan). In this way, a line of his incarnations, each with the Dragpa (gragspa) surname, followed successively.
Panchen Sonam Dragpa Pel (Panchen bSod-nams grags-pa-dpal) was born in the 14th century in Tsetang (rTsed-thang) in the Lhoka (Lho-kha) region of Central Tibet. He entered the great seat of learning, Sera Thekchenling (Se-ra theg-chen-gling) monastic university, where he became the personal disciple of spiritual master Donyo Dangden (Dhon-yod dang-ldan) and His Holiness the Second Dalai Lama Gedun Gyatso (dGe-‘dun rgya-mtsho). Under them, he studied the entire teachings of sutra, tantra and their commentaries, and became known for his outstanding learning. He also received from them the empowerments, reading transmissions, guides and instructions of the entire body of spiritual training. On becoming the fully blessed one, the Dalai Lama appointed him the abbot of the Loseling (Blo-gsalgling) college, one of the four colleges of Drepung (‘Bras-dpung)- the most prestigious monastic university in Tibet before 1959, with over 10,000 monks on its register. He continued to be the abbot of this college for the next six years; and after him the tenure for each of his successors in this position was fixed for a period of six years, a rule that is followed even today.
He was then appointed the head of the Gelugpa (dGe-lugs-pa) order, the throne holder of Gaden (dGa’-ldan), thus becoming the 15th regent of Lord Tsongkhapa (Tsong-khapa), the second Buddha. In his eulogy to him, Khedrub Gelek Pelsang (mKhas-grub dGe-legs dpal- bzang) says:
O Lama, the second successor of the Unsubduable One,
The regent of the Lord of Dharma,
You are the one who made the virtuous qualities thrive;
You are the one who ascended to the golden throne uplifted
by the fearless lions.
May Your success thrive forever!
He continued to be the throne holder for the next seven years, during which time he promoted the spread of Lord Tsongkhapa’s (Tsong-kha-pa) precious teachings, the Gelug (dGe-lugs) tradition, across the land in all directions. He also paid special attention to the practice of monastic rules and the learning and meditation of Buddhism in the monasteries such as Sera (Se-ra), Drepung (‘Bras-spungs), Kyomolung (sKyo-mo-lung), Phagmo Chode (Phag-mo chos-sde), Nyeding (Nye-sdings), Ödna (’Od-sna) and Chöde Rinchen (Chos-sde rin-chen) etc. and improved them to a great extent. He taught the Third Dalai Lama Sonam Gyatso (bSod-nams rGya-mtsho) as the latter’s spiritual master. It was from him that the Dalai Lama received the name Sonam (bSod-nams).
His contributions in the literary field are enormous; and, indeed, they are the most valuable of all his contributions. Tsongkhapa (Tsong-kha-pa) has rightly said:
Of all one’s deeds,
The ‘deeds of speech’ are the most valuable.
Panchen Sonam Dragpa Pel (Panchen bSod-nams grags-pa-dpal) was a person with an extraordinary talent for teaching, debate and writing. In his colophon to Bu mey chi don zab don sel wey dron mey (dBu ma’i spyi don zab don gsal ba’i sgron me), he wrote:
In the field of teaching, I am [next to none!] Knowing that
I would outdo them in this field, Arya Asanga and his
brother transmigrated into another realm.
In the field of debate, I am [next to none!] Knowing that
I would find out the areas they had contradicted and
that I would examine them and put forth my arguments,
the logician Dignaga (Digh-naga) and Dharmakirti tactfully
bypassed me.
In the field of writing, I am [next to none!] [In my eyes,]
Arya-sura was just good at spreading the works, which
are like ‘disputes~ between an insect and a field.’
I am the learned man. Peerless in the field of teaching,
debate and writing!
For some this passage might sound utterly nonsensical, but the most learned master of our age, the talented teacher, logician and writer, the late tutor to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Yongdzin Trijang Dorjechang (Yongs-‘dzin Khri-byang rDorje-‘Chang), said: “Now, some people of our time, who consider themselves learned scholars, think that this is utter nonsense; but they are wrong.”
Panchen Sonam Dragpa Pel (Panchen bSod-nams grags-pa-dpal) wrote over 45 volumes of books dealing with many different subjects, such as the commentaries on the sutras and tantras, the saddhana manuals of the tutelary deities, history, religious history and so forth. Among these, one that is very important for all who wish to learn and meditate on the path-of the practical aspect of Buddhism in general and that of Vajrayana in particular is the Leg shey gyu de chi nam par shagpa kelsang gi yi trod (Legs bshad rgyud sde spyi’i rnam par bzhag pa skal bzang gi yid ‘phrod). In this book, he has explained precisely how the four tantras differ from one another. He has also fully described the stages of the two spontaneous path practices of the Vajrayana tradition, dealing with the ‘six ultimates’ and the ‘four modes of transmission’, thus interpreting without mistake the intention of Adhi-Buddha Vajradhara.
May the reprint of this text, which the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives is publishing herewith, bring peace and happiness in this world!
Prof. Nawang Jinpa
St. Joseph’s College
Darjeeling
January 24 1996
H.H. the 10th Panchen Lama (Main figure)
(Top to bottom): Amitabha, Lama Tsongkhapa, H.H. the 10th Panchen Lama, Tsangpa Karpo and Dorje Shugden.
The Panchen Lama line of incarnations are believed to be emanations of Amitabha, the Buddha of Boundless Light. Amitabha is relied on strongly within Pure Land Buddhism that is popularly practised in East Asia. He embodies the awakened aggregate of discernment and that means he purifies desire within the mindstream of practitioners. He currently resides in Sukhavati, the Western Pure Land, where practitioners aspire to take rebirth in order to continue their spiritual practice.
Panchen Lama is not just a name but a title bestowed by the Great Fifth Dalai Lama upon his illustrious teacher, Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen and it literally means ‘Great Scholar’ in recognition of his teacher’s scholarly prowess. Since then, the Panchen Lamas have been regarded as the second highest incarnation lineage after the Dalai Lamas in Tibet. Although this incarnation lineage stems all the way back to India, it is traditionally traced back to Kedrub Gelek Pelsang, one of the two main heart disciples of Lama Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug tradition. Furthermore, the Great Fifth Dalai Lama bestowed the monastery of Tashi Lhunpo in Shigatse to be the monastic seat of the Panchen Lamas. Therefore, Tashi Lhunpo which was originally established by the First Dalai Lama Gendrub Drub has since become the monastic seat of the later incarnations of the Panchen Lama.
In 1938, the 10th Panchen Lama was born in what is today’s Qinghai province. He was enthroned and given the name Choekyi Gyaltsen at Kumbum Monastery in 1949. In 1954, the Dalai Lama and the Panchen Lama travelled to Beijing in order to attend the first session of the first National People’s Congress, meeting Mao Zedong and other Chinese leaders. When the Dalai Lama fled to India in 1959, the Panchen Lama remained in Tibet and supported the Chinese government in order to be the spiritual head of his people that remained in Tibet. Following a tour of Tibet, in 1962 the Panchen Lama wrote a document entitled the 70,000 Character Petition denouncing the abusive policies of the Chinese in Tibet. In 1964, he was publicly humiliated and dismissed from all posts and imprisoned. In 1978, he returned his monastic vows and married Li Jie, a soldier and medical student. In 1983, Li Jie gave birth to a daughter who was named Yabshi Pan Rinzinwangmo. She is highly revered as she is the only known offspring of the either Panchen Lama or Dalai Lama incarnation lineages. The Panchen Lama entered clear light from a heart attack in Shigatse at the age of 51 in 1989.
One of the main protectors of the Panchen Lama line of incarnations is Tsangpa Karpo, the peaceful aspect of Setrap Chen. Setrap along with his various manifestations is a Dharma Protector that arose in ancient times in India and was brought to Tibet by Lotsawa Loden Sherab. Dorje Shugden was also closely associated with the Panchen Lamas by virtue of his previous life as Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen, the heart disciple of His Holiness the 4th Panchen Lama. There is a large chapel dedicated to Dorje Shugden in Tashi Lhunpo Monastery which still stands today. It was consecrated by Kyabje Pabongka Rinpoche at the request of His Holiness the 9th Panchen Lama. Within the collected works of the 10th Panchen Lama, there is an extensive liturgy propitiating Dorje Shugden. Therefore, his writings bear testament to the fact that the Panchen Lama worshiped and considered Dorje Shugden to be beneficial and his practice efficacious.
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Read more about the 10th Panchen Lama: https://bit.ly/2EKfDJI
H.H. the 4th Panchen Lama (Main figure)
(Top to bottom): Manjushri, H.H. the 4th Panchen Lama, H.H. the 5th Dalai Lama, Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen, Dorje Shugden and Four-Faced Mahakala.
The Panchen Lama line of incarnations are believed to be emanations of Amitabha, the Buddha of Boundless Light. Amitabha is relied on strongly within Pure Land Buddhism that is popularly practised in East Asia. He embodies the awakened aggregate of discernment and that means he purifies desire within the mindstream of practitioners. He currently resides in Sukhavati, the Western Pure Land, where practitioners aspire to take rebirth in order to continue their spiritual practice.
Panchen Lama is not just a name but a title bestowed by the Great Fifth Dalai Lama upon his illustrious teacher, Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen and it literally means ‘Great Scholar’ in recognition of his teacher’s scholarly prowess. Since then, the Panchen Lamas have been regarded as the second highest incarnation lineage after the Dalai Lamas in Tibet. Although this incarnation lineage stems all the way back to India, it is traditionally traced back to Kedrub Gelek Pelsang, one of the two main heart disciples of Lama Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug tradition.
Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen who later became known as the 4th Panchen Lama was born in a village called Drukgya in the Lhan valley, in Tsang, in 1570. He searched for and enthroned Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso as the 5th Dalai Lama and Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen as the 4th Zimkhang Gongma (the incarnation of Panchen Sonam Drakpa). These two lamas became the heart disciples of Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen.
Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen managed to keep suppression by the Tsang king at bay by healing the king from disease and subsequently, he was allowed to recognise the Fifth Dalai Lama. Later, he forged an alliance with the invading Mongols after they had defeated the Tsang king and thus, he was able to enthrone the Dalai Lama as the temporal leader of Tibet at Drepung Monastery. In turn, the Dalai Lama unified Tibet and established his government of the Gaden Podrang. He offered his monastic seat of Tashi Lhunpo to his guru, Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen and also bestowed upon him the title Panchen Lama. Thereafter, Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen was known as the Panchen Lama and Tashi Lhunpo became the monastic seat of the Panchen Lama incarnation lineage. On the spiritual side, he wrote prolifically and one of his most famous works was the Lama Chopa, also known as the Guru Puja. It was originally transmitted through an oral tradition and stemmed from the sacred teachings and transmissions that Manjushri gave to Lama Tsongkhapa.
Four-Faced Mahakala is a protective emanation of Manjushri, the patron Bodhisattva of Wisdom and is a protector of the Cakrasamvara Tantra. This is one of the main tantric systems widely practised within the Gelug order and therefore, this protector is widely propitiated by many high lamas of our tradition as well.
Upon his passing Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen arose in the form of Dorje Shugden, who became a protector of the teachings of Lama Tsongkhapa and has been widely propitiated as such ever since.
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Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor David Lai for writing and sharing this article to educate us about Kalachakra Tantra, His Holiness the 11th Panchen Lama Bainqen Erdini Qoigyijabu and the growth of Vajrayana Buddhism in China.
The past story of the His Holiness the Great Fifth Dalai Lama Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso and His Holiness the 4th Panchen Lama Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen was remarkable when the 4th Panchen Lama discovered and enthroned the Fifth Dalai Lama and the Fifth Dalai Lama bestowed the title of ‘Panchen Lama’ on his own teacher in gratitude as well as recognizing the past three Panchen Lamas after unified the entire country and became the spiritual leader of Tibet at that time. This history has shown the two highly reincarnated Lamas on earth hold the prestigious relationship to spread the Buddhadharma inside and outside Tibet & China respectively since the 17th century until today.
After reading through the article, this is my first time to learn that Kalachakra Tantra initiation is different from other Maha Anuttarayoga Tantra initiations as Kalachakra Tantra initiation can be given to the public that benefits all levels of practitioners or even to those who do not practice after receiving the initiation, they will be blessed with Kalachakra planted in their mindstreams so that they may be able to take rebirth in Shambhala and able to continue with Buddhadharma practice & Kalachakra Tantra until achieving enlightenment without having the worldly concerns. This is the ideal condition for every Buddhist that aims to become enlightened and liberated from samsara one day.
During the mass Kalachakra Tantra initiation given by His Holiness the 11th Panchen Lama in Shigatse, Tibet Autonomous Region of China, thousands and thousands of pilgrims including lay people, monks, nuns, incarnated lamas and masters came and attended the initiation organized and sponsored by the Chinese government, with full of respect and faith shown towards His Holiness the 11th Panchen Lama. Evidently, the Buddhism is growing in China through the blessing and guidance of His Holiness the 11th Panchen Lama, and this is the result of positive effect where the Chinese government creates the cause for the growth of Buddhadharma.
May all the obstacles and obscurations will be cleared to path way for the growth of Buddhadharma which eventually can alleviate the sufferings endured by many sentient beings, especially for those who have yet to meet with Buddhadharma.
Thank you with folded hands,
kin hoe
These are beautiful pictures of H.E. Dilgo Kyentse Rinpoche going to meet His Holiness Panchen Rinpoche and getting blessings from Panchen Rinpoche. You can see how humble Dilgo Kyentse Rinpoche is. He is always bowed in the presence of Panchen Rinpoche. Dilgo Kyentse Rinpoche is a great lama himself yet has not ego to get blessings from another very high lama. Beautiful to see this. I wanted to share these.
Rejoice to this wondreful and auspicious news! It’s great to know more about The 11th Panchen Lama, Kalachakra and the first Kalachakra initiation to be held publicly in Tibet/China in the last 50 years and the historic first Kalachakra initiation by the young Panchen Lama. I enjoyed reading this interesting article and pictures. Thank you very much Rinpoche and Pastor David for sharing.?
This is the historic first Kalachakra initiation presided over over by the young Panchen Lama. to be held publicly in Tibet/China in the last 50 years.Rejoice It is a great and powerful blessing for those who witness such a historic event.This event can be seen as a powerful indication of the Dharma growing and spreading from China.The Kalachakra Tantra has various benefits according to the level of the practitioner.
With Panchen Lama’s influence this would have a positive impact on the acceptance of Dorje Shugden’s practice.
Thank You Pastor David Lai for sharing this very interesting article.
Wrathful Kalachakra
It is wonderful that the seeds of enlightenment had been planted on the minds of 100,000 people that day, and many more in future since the 11th Panchen Lama’s influence is growing. Fake or real is not a matter of importance anymore. The crucial fact is that many people benefitted, the dharma is growing. The fact that the Chinese government sponsored the event and is supportive of religious freedom is a very good sign. Since historically, one of the main Protectors of the Panchen Lamas is Dorje Shugden, this is another good sign.
In my opinion, the Panchen Lama’s influence as a spiritual leader to Tibetans is gaining traction and with increased religious freedom, Dorje Shugden practice will grow. Tulkus reincarnate life after life for the sole purpose of benefiting others. From the results of the 11th Panchen Lama’s work, it does not look like the work of a fake Tulku. Through him, dharma is thriving, his student base is growing and there is no indication of any negative outcome. After all, no one can fool the Buddhas or karma.
May the Panchen Lama’s influence grow within China for the benefit of the 1.4 billion populace, Tibet and beyond. May he gain many more disciples who will learn and practice sincerely and may Dorje Shugden’s practice grow.
HH the 11th Panchen Lama stands tall and dignified on this occasion. I like,in particular, his reference to the 10th Panchen Lama,when he proclaimed the rainfall to be “an auspicious sign,” and recalled that it also rained during the previous Kalachakra initiation that was led by His Holiness the 10th Panchen Lama. He added that the 10th Panchen Lama at that time had explained that the rain indicated purification.
In the minds of the Tibetans attending , this must surely evoke the sentiments that the same mind-stream continues into this life, continues to spread the Dharma and to give blessings and initiations to benefit all!
Is definitely good news to hear that the 11th Panchen Lama is having his first Kalachakra initiation. I am sure a lot of Shugden followers are banned from taking/attending this famous initiation from H.H. The Dalai Lama due to the Shugden issue. With Panchen Lama giving this initiation, they will not be deprived of such crucial practice in the Tibetan Buddhism context.
I am looking forward to hearing more news in the near future of more initiation by the 11th Panchen Lama in China and also around the world.
Seem like the reincarnate lamas have started to turn the wheel of dharma again. From H.H Trijang Rinpoche, H.H Zong Rinpoche and now we hear about H.H Panchen Lama’s reincarnation have turn the dharma wheel. This is a great news.
The Kalachakra initiation that was held in Tibet China, and supported strongly by the China’s government was something really new. China government have not openly support the Vajrayana Buddhism, partially to them the Vajrayana Buddhism was not familiar to them. I think the Panchen Lama have did a great work to have convince the China Government about Vajrayana Buddhism. In China, any religion that is not “authentic” to them, will be stopped by the Government. Thus, to have hold this Kalachackra event was not meant only Vajrayana Buddhism have certain position in Government, it is also meant that the China government have put some hard work to promote the Vajrayana Buddhism to the world. By open up this event for the news reporters all over the world to come to attend to this event. It is an act that showing the China government are serious in promoting Buddhism, not only to China itself but also to the world.
Although the 11th Panchen Lama is very young. But, during the ceremony, He is very familiar on the ritual. The familiarity of him on ritual is not just happens in this ceremony. When H. H Panchen Lama was 10 years old, on June 24th, 1999, in Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, H.H gave Long Life initiation to the Sangha members from the monastery. H.H could remember 25 pages of the prayer, and during the ceremony, the ritual uses by H.H was according to the traditional.
Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor David and blog teams for sharing this great news.
With Folded hand, love
Freon
Dear PDL
Thank you for this article written with wonderful pictures. I rejoice in the work of the 11th Panchen Lama. I think as he mature, he started to show who he really is. I think as he mature, the controversy surrounding is recognition will matter less since in Gelug tradition, we very much rely on the lineage study and what the contribution of the Tulku in that very life.
I sincerely hope that the 11th Panchen Lama will make significant contribution in this life.
Valentina
HH the Panchen Lama giving initiations of Kalachakra which is synonymous to his line of incarnations, is very meritorious and a great blessing to all who received it. Regardless of China’s political agenda for sponsoring the event, the seeds of enlightenment were planted in many people’s mindstream. This is ultimately more important. If for whatever this lama is not the real Panchen Lama, he is still qualified to give the Kalachakra initiation as long as he has received the initiation himself and gone through the required retreats. This huge event also earmarks China’s support of Buddhism which was part of the Chinese history for more than a thousand years. I rejoice for China’s step in reviving Buddhism for the sake of her citizens.
This is HUGE! The number of people who attended this Kalachakra initiation is just mind blowing! Imagine being one of the fortunate ones to receive this sacred initiation.
I would like to thank Pastor David and everyone who contributed to this article. There are many salient points in here, but these 4 stood out to me the most.
1) Panchen Lama is known to be the emanation of Buddha Amitabha and also the emanation of the king of Shambhala. Hence, there is a special significance for the Panchen Lama to be giving this initiation given the connection between the Kalachakra Tantras and the land of Shambhala.
2) According to Tibetan Buddhist beliefs, if the wrong person is enthroned as a lama, the merits of the lama’s incarnation line would be detrimental to the pretender. Therefore, a false lama’s works and teachings will not grow and the lama himself will have a short life. However, as the current Panchen Lama is growing from strength to strength, this proves that he is indeed the unmistaken incarnation.
3) Kalachakra Tantra is an exception because the initiation can be given to the masses and has various benefits according to the level of the practitioner. For the highest practitioner, he or she will achieve Enlightenment through this practice; for the middling practitioner, he or she will continue to practice the Dharma in this and future lives; and for the lowest practitioner, he or she will be able to take rebirth in Shambhala through sincere practice although they may not achieve high attainments. Lastly, those who attend the initiation but do not practice will have the powerful blessings of Kalachakra planted in their mindstreams so that in the future, they too may be able to take rebirth in Shambhala as well.
4) The main reason why this particular initiation is given on a massive scale by the Panchen Lama who is the emanation of the Shambhala kings, whose sole purpose is to liberate as many beings as possible.
There are many who claim that His Holiness the 11th Panchen Lama Bainqen Erdini Qoigyijabu is not the “real” Panchen Lama but the fact that his sole purpose of giving this initiation to such a huge number of people is to liberate them, speaks for itself. To me, his pure motivation shows me who His Holiness really is.
This is amazing, 100,000 people attended Kalachakra initiation in China, China has always been very strict on people gathering in a group, but for this initiation, China government has actually sponsored it and support, it shows how much China encourage their citizen to receive blessing from this initiation, this is really one of the great decision for benefiting the citizens of China.
Normally before a great event start, there will be some incident happen, just like this event, there is a rainfall before the initiation, and this rainfall is to purify off the people’s negative karma so that they can attend abd receive the blassing from this initiation. I remembered that during that time Kechara Forest Retreat is organizing an event of Dorje Shugden oracle take trance, in that morning, we did experienced a blackout and apperently part of Bentong town was also black out, there’s no electricity in that whole area and it lasted for a few hours, but just before thw event is about to start, then electricity came back and the whole event was very smooth, at the end, all 700++ people who attended that event got the blessing from Dorje Shugden, so the blackout was actually a purification for the 700 of us on that day.
Panchen Lama is such a great Dharma master who is highly attained. We are most fortunate to have such a holy being amongst us in samsara today. Not only that, the Panchen Lama is supported and promoted by one of the most influential authorities in the world: China.
Many are stuck to the previous image of China being close-minded to matters like culture, tradition and spiritual practice. However, China has progressed much from those days as its economy flourish and its society develop to become more and more international in nature.
The organization of this grand event is typical of China who is able to arrange the most efficient possible events taking into consideration the masses of people they have to accommodate. I am simply glad and excited that such a historical event by the Panchen Lama is hosted under conditions that can benefit many.
Thank you Pastor David for this informative post!
As a Buddhist, we should be rejoice for such an event as it is served to benefit the people and spread the dharma. Moreover it is good to know that the government of China is supporting and sponsoring this event. Those who have been criticising this event should think twice about their own intention of doing this, what is their intention of stopping the spread of Dharma?
I rejoice for the Kalachakra initiation for the first time held in Tibet, China after sixty over years later. Rejoice for the rise of H.H. the 11th Panchen Lama to conduct this event. I think this is what many of Buddhist all over the world have been waiting for, to see the glory of Buddhism once again take root in Tibet. Buddhism is the only religion that arise in peace. Buddhism never arise nor spread once due to politics, war nor enforcement. Buddhism was taught to all to liberate people from Samsara hence it is equal to all and all are welcome. Just like this Kalachakra initiation this time, it was opened to all who has faith to Buddha and wanted to practice and seek for blessings.
I specially rejoice for the people of China (included Tibet), that their government is being so supportive and to promote religious freedom in China. Buddhsim will spread wide and far in and from China, one of the leading country in the world today. Dorje Shugden, the true Dharma Protector will also arise together with the teaching of H.H. the 11th Panchen Lama as His Holiness is also Dorje Shugden practitioner.
This is a historic moment after 50 years the fist Kalachakra initiation being heal in Tibet/China by Panchen Lama. This event also shows that how China support Tibetan Buddhism in this country not just allow such holy event to be held in large scale but also monetary sponsorship to make this event a success.
A successful leader will respect other religious and give freedom for their people belief. China is not just big in number of population but to be such a successful country their leaders understand that unity is important and by respecting them it will bring harmony to their country.
True compassion is form action not just from the words. China prove this and the evident is through this mega event that benefitted 10,000 of this fortunate people. May the 11th Panchen Lama live long and continue to turn the wheel of dharma in this supportive country.
“The Kalachakra Tantra is an exception because the initiation can be given to the masses and has various benefits according to the level of the practitioner. For the highest practitioner, he or she will achieve Enlightenment through this practice; for the middling practitioner, he or she will continue to practice the Dharma in this and future lives; and for the lowest practitioner, he or she will be able to take rebirth in Shambhala through sincere practice although they may not achieve high attainments. Lastly, those who attend the initiation but do not practice will have the powerful blessings of Kalachakra planted in their mindstreams so that in the future, they too may be able to take rebirth in Shambhala as well.”
Wow, I’ve always thought that such high tantric practice is only meant for students who are well prepared. Never thought of the motivations behind it. This masses initiation is extremely beneficial to all sentient beings. More of the event like this must held more, hence, it could brings more benefits to the others.
It’s glad to know more about The 11th Panchen Lama, Kalachakra and the first Kalachakra initiation to be held publicly in Tibet/China in the last 50 years and the historic first Kalachakra initiation presided over by the young Panchen Lama.
I am rejoice more than 100k of peoples received the initiation and teachings.
Thank You PDL for your efforts and researched. _/\_
It is really awesome to see the sea of people of over 100000 including incarnated lamas attending the initiation. And in Tibet, China. Buddhism is about tolerance, forgiving, compassion, peace, wisdom and so on and His Holiness The 11th Panchen Lama is practicing the teachings of the Buddha. And HH is showing what religious freedom is all about by welcoming all and sundry at the event. I pray that HH gives more teachings and initiations especially in Tashi Lhunpo. May HH The 11th Panchen Lama live very long.
This is one of the great news to see the young 11th Panchan Lama Bainqen Erdini Qoigyijabu are giving out Kalachakra initiation at northwest China’s Gansu Province and Tashi Lhunpo Monastery.In rejoice reading this articlebecause over 10,000 people are fortunate received Kalachara initiation blessing by 11th Panchan Lama.
Panchan Lama is from Tashi Lhunpo monastery, which monastery main protector is Dorje Shugden. I am excited to see at future Panchen Lama also able give out Dorje Shugden sogtee to the public benifit thousand of thousand of people who have affinity with the protector. I am glad to see more DS lineage lama are promoting buddha dharma benefiting many people in the world.
This is a beautiful event. So many people receiving the initiation. With rain slightly falling, a sign of purification and auspicious. I rejoice for this wonderful event in China, So many people have this precious opportunity and everybody is allowed to join. This is truly good news.
The 11th Panchen Lama was recognised in 1995 after a lot-drawing ceremony from the sacred golden urn, which is one way of divination used in Tibetan Buddhism.
Thank you for this detailed and informative article and the beautiful pictures.
It is great news to the Buddhist community that the current Panchen Lama is giving initiation. As long as more people are being blessed and more people are being benefitted, political and personal issues should be put aside. Religion has never been apart from samsaric influences of this world such as political, financial and personal agendas. There will always be political play involved specially when it comes to religious figure of mass influence such as Dalai Lama or Panchen Lama. Whatever China’s agenda may be, the Kalachakra initiation created vast awareness on Tibetan Buddhist in China and internationally.
I have always wondered what it’s like in Shambala.
Must be interesting to be able to practice Dharma there without having to be stuck in samsaric activities that we have now. Not only that, they live in peace and all they do is study and transform. I hope we can be there one day!
Yes, it doesn’t matter real or fake so long as the person did his studies and practice well. And if he is fake, why would his audiences and students grow?
At least he does not discriminate those who are practicing Dorje Shugden and welcome everyone. That should be the way when it comes to religions. No discrimination.
Thank you organizers and China for supporting Tibetan Buddhism because 100,000 people was blessed and received the initiation. How wonderful!
Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor David Lai about this write up on this auspicious event . I must said this event is so grand and is so beneficial to so many people in China, so however the outside people want to criticise about China government policy on religious matters whatever negative issue that they claim with this event that happen we must convince that China government do give religion freedom to the Tibetan .
Dear Rinpoche,
I rejoice to see so many people , lay and ordained attending this mass initiation of Kalachakra Tantra by Panchen Lama. It is very nice to see the dharma can grow and flourish in China/Tibet. The most special part of this mass initiation is that it was held openly supported by the China government. The Chinese had been not so in favout of Tibetan Buddhism in the past and this is definitely a huge step for them. On the other hand, this mass initiation is opened to public where anyone can attend it regardless of who they are. This is a strong contrary to teachings and innitiations given by his Holiness the Dalai Lama where Dorje Shugden practitioners are not allowed to join. This clearly shows who truly practice religious freedom and who doesn’t.
Humbly,
Chris Chong
Thank You Pastor David Lai for this very enlightening post.
I learned that the Kalachakra is the only HYT initiation that can be given to the mass and everyone can benefit for the initiation according to ones’ level. Hence, during this degenerate times, I think it is very beneficial to the trained and untrained alike.
Also, the lineage of the Panchen Lamas are closely associated with the Kalachakra Tantra and that anyone initiated and who hold the commitments well can give initiations; hence there is no such thing as which is the right or wrong Lama.
Lastly, I rejoice to see the increase activity of the Panchen Lama supported by the Chinese Government in spreading the Buddha Dharma; in this very well organised Initiation. It bodes well for the people in Tibet, China and the world at large.
Finally, the lineage of the Protector is growing with this and this is proof that the Protector is Enlightened; otherwise, there will be no karma for 100,000 people to attend this initiation.
西藏人相信一些高僧大德在人生某阶段的样貌将与前世的相似，这也更进一步证明了他们是真的转世。请看这张今世和前世喇嘛的比较图，注意他们惊人的相似处。
西藏人相信一些高僧大德在人生某阶段的样貌将与前世的相似，这也更进一步证明了他们是真的转世。请看以下几张今世和前世喇嘛的比较图，注意他们惊人的相似处。
西藏人相信一些高僧大德在人生某阶段的样貌将与前世的相似，这也更进一步证明了他们是真的转世。请看以下四张今世和前世班禅喇嘛的比较图，注意他们惊人的相似处。
Tibetans believe some high lamas will resemble their previous lives at some point of their lives. This further proves that they are the true incarnation. Please see the four memes of current Panchen Lama and previous Panchen Lama and see the similarities.
Indeed this is a very good news to rejoice! The China Government has shown strong support towards the 11th Panchen Lama. To allow 100,000 Tibetans gather together for religious activities is a big deal in China. It also means that 11th Panchen Lama is able to bring dharma to the massive crowd in China. Being a strong practitioner of Dorje Shugden, hopefully Panchen Lama might conduct teaching and initiation for this Deity.
It is truly blessed that this interesting article has benefited so many people from the First Historical Initiation of the Kalachakra by the Panchen Lama. As said, “The Kalachakra Tantra is an exception because the initiation can be given to the masses and has various benefits according to the level of the practitioner. For the highest practitioner, he or she will achieve enlightenment through this practice; for the middling practitioner, he or she will continue to practice the Dharma in this and future lives; and for the lowest practitioner he or she will be able to take rebirth in Shambala through sincere practice although they may not achieve high attainments. Lastly, those who attend the initiation but do not practice will have the powerful blessings of Kalachakra planted in their mind-stream, so that in future they too may be able to take rebirth in Shambala as well.” Such is the aim of the Chinese’s Government in support of Tibetan Buddhism in the masses to the people or a show of support that the Chinese Government are pro-Buddhist. Panchen Lama Gyainchin Norbu is a qualified Vajra-master whereby, he is in a powerful position to promote Dharma to millions of Chinese there in Tibet, China. At the end of the day, Buddhism should be much more important than anything else! It is this for this reason that we should rejoice as this is the First Historical Kalachakra Initiation by the 11th Panchen Lama held publicly in Tibet/China in the last 50 years! Thank you so much for the, sharing, Pastor David Lai.
Thanks for writing this up. Mainly, I think the way to interpret this from the perspective more of an outsider is just to see it as a good event. I know both Tsem and the 14th DL have been doing that ritual for decades. It is good that the young Panchen Lama over in China is able to do it as well. ….some confusion about the self-initiating monks, but despite having spent 2000 hours or so learning more about Buddhism I still have lots of ignorance.
Thank you Miriam for your refreshing, logical and balanced opinion which is very true. In the end we should rejoice in the “good” event we are witnessing here which is over 100k received the dharma and imprints were planted and they received the Kalachakra initiation! Wow that’s way better than most of people who has no dharma. Chinese people also need dharma as well, in fact, they need it the most if you ask me! So yes this is a positive move forward for China and Buddhism at large.
Thank you and hope to see you around more on this blog 🙂
Dear Miriam,
I agree with you to see it as a good event. I think that any event that encourages spirituality, for people to look deeper about life than materialism, or to just believe in being kinder is good.
Regarding having lots of ignorance, so do I and many of us here 🙂 There are many posts here on TsemRinpoche.com that we can learn a lot more, especially in the Buddhas, Dharma & Practice category: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/category/buddhas-dharma
You may also want to check out this category where Rinpoche’s video teachings are made available together with transcripts: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/category/transcripts
Hope to see you more on this blog!
Dear Miriam Pia,
Thank you for writing in and you are right. It’s always a good thing that the Panchen Lama or any lama for that matter, engage in teachings, initiations and so forth because it has profound blessings for everyone and it also spreads the lineage. With regards to self-initiating monks, the lama along with a group of monks were engaging in a ritual called daju or self-initiation.
Self initiation purifies ones vows that you have taken before (that means you must have received the initiation prior to this from a qualified lama who holds the lineage), repairs the broken vows, re-affirms them, and powerful to purify many downfalls in general that prevent attainments from one’s practice.
You may also retake your mantra count commitment if it was broken. You plant the 4 types of initiations into one’s mindstream. It is necessary for the Lama also to do a daju prior to conferring initiation to others. Self initiations are only available in higher tantric practices.
The Panchen Lama, Dalai Lama and Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen (Dorje Shugden in a previous life) had worked hand-in-hand for many lifetimes to spread the Dharma far and wide. In this current time, for some reason, perhaps it is due to the karma of people today. In this lifetime, they appear to even go against each other but it has been predicted that their activities would benefit many beings of this time.
Thus, it is always exciting to be watch someone like the Panchen Lama grow in influence in China. For, we know that China will ascend to be a world power and everybody would eventually and that would mean that her beliefs – Buddhism would grow to be very big as well. Panchen Lama would eventually have a bigger foothold in the future due to this.
Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor David Lai for this informative article.
This is the first time I read about Kalachakra Initiation. Thanks Pastor David for the detail on the power of the Kalachakra Initiation and the connection between the land of Shambhala and the Kalachakra Tantras.
The current Kalachakra Initiation event at Tibet had opened another angle of perspective on religious freedom.
May 11th Panchen Lama’s dharma work continue to flourish, may the concept of religious freedom reaches out to all places around the world and may more and more people have chances to learn dharma, receive Kalachakra Initiation and never separate from guru and dharma in their future lives.
Humbly with hand folded,
Ng Jesvin
Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor David for this most interesting blogpost. This first Kalachakra initiation to be held publicly in Tibet/China in the last 50 years and the historic first Kalachakra initiation presided over by the young 11th Panchen Lama is an occasion for great rejoicing! It surely shows that Dharma is still flourishing in Tibet, China!
Over 100,000 attended the initiation and teachings held in such majestic resplendence, and that included over 5,000 monks and nuns and 100 incarnated lamas and teachers. Amongst the lamas in attendance were luminaries like His Eminence the 20th Denma Gonsa Rinpoche, His Eminence Nyitrul Rinpoche, Venerable Lama Jampa Ngodrub Rinpoche also known as Lama Wangchuk, and many other eminent masters!
The crowd braved the cold and the rain(which the Panchen Lama said was an auspicious sign).
The fact that the Kalachakra Tantras are inextricably linked with the legend of the mystical land of Shambhala, lends the Kalachakra initiations much power and makes it so awesome.Shambala appears to be like a pure land on earth that is hidden and ruled by enlightened kings. The Kalachakra Tantra is the primary practice of the Beings of this kingdom . Today, the Kalachakra Tantra is disseminated within all schools of Tibetan Buddhism but is featured prominently within the Gelug lineage.
Bestowing the Kalachakra initiation is not something new for the Panchen Lama but a continuation of the practice from previous lives. In fact, the Kalachakra Tantra is a specialty of the Panchen Lama’s incarnation line.
It also logically follows that if the Panchen Lama’s influence is on the rise, this would also have a positive impact on the acceptance of Dorje Shugden’s practice. This is because historically, one of the main Protectors of the Panchen Lamas is Dorje Shugden and he is also the Protector of Tashi Lhunpo, the monastic seat of the Panchen Lamas.Hence, there is another cause for great rejoicing over this massive Kalachakra initiations event!
I’ve grown up reading about Shambhala, well what authors and new age pracitioners have construed Shambhala to be. Therefore I’ve had a fascination with Shambhala and as an extension, the Kalachakra practices. But i really did not know much about the practice until I came to Kechara and started learning more. It is such a wonderful tantric system taught by Buddha Shakyamuni in the form of the deity Kalachakra.
Knowing the benefits of the practice and its history as recounted in this post by Pastor David, really shows the importance of such a public blessing given by His Holiness the Panchen Lama. Given that there hasn’t been such a public initiation in Tibet for over 50 years, this event really is a very memorable one.
From the numbers of attendees, it goes to show that the Dharma is still alive and well in Tibet. All the people that attended received such powerful blessing. I rejoice for all of those who attended the initiation.
Thank you Rinpoche and PDL for sharing this great piece of news and to learn that Dharma is spreading so well.
I also rejoice that DS is working in so many ways to bring Dharma to people and in removing obstacles our Dharma journey.
May HH 11th Panchen Lama live long and continue to turn the Dharma Wheel.
Humbly yours
Lum Kok Luen
Thank you for this blog post Pastor David.
Kalachakra had always been intriguing to me because of its close relation to Shambala. Although I have never read much about Shambala, I have always been attracted to this place and view it to be likened to a space like Shangri-la…a heaven on Earth. I hope that many of those who received the Kalachakra initiation will find their way to Shambala and eventually reach enlightenment.
Pastor David’s explanation tha the “power” to give Kalachakra initiation depends on the sincerity and effort of the practitioner who completed all the requirements is very logical. The Dharma is not based on status, i.e. only a high lama can confer it or only a reincarnate recognized by the authorities has the ability to do so. The Dharma is based on the merits and motivation of the practitioner. Hence, I agree that as long as the Panchen Lama fulfilled the requirements of his own personal Kalchakra practice and has the motivation to benefit others, his empowerments have blessings and can bestow attainments and enlightenment.
It is also very encouraging to witness China encourage the growth of Dharma. With China “on board”, there is great opportunity for the Dharma to grow. If one has the sincere motivation for the blessing of the 3 Jewels to touch as many lives as possible, one would rejoice for this.
Again, thank you for sharing this auspicious event with us!
Whether He is the real Holy Panchen Lama or not is not the issue here… the fact is that over 100,000 people attending His teaching, initiation, is something we can all rejoice sincerely, and I would say so happily because hey this is going to help Dharma spread all over China and the world. As we all know the His Holiness Panchen Lama’s status is equal to His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s. And as the Dalai Lama is slowly seen retiring from the Buddhist scene, the Panchen Lama is arising like the Sun to revive Buddhism where it has suffered a great void for quite some time.
If you ask me, it is high time for Buddhism to be revived in China again, like in her previous hay days when Buddhism flourished and people were living in peace and prosperity.
Various Blog post on the influence of Buddhism in China:
– https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/external-article/leshan-giant-buddha
– https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/chinas-huge-buddha-statues.html
– https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/art-architecture/vajravarahi-caves-in-china.html
Though He is still very young, this Holy Panchen Lama carries himself with such gentle grace and charisma… Seeing how He can bestow such a complicated initiation as the Kalachakra in such a grand scale; to hundreds of thousands with such ease, shows you He is no ordinary Lama, and that this is definitely not His first time giving such a grand initiation. It as if he had done this in previous lives.
He has such kind eyes and we can see from His gentle demeanour, He is compassionate. I rejoice for the people in Tibet China, because this is historical and a great step for their future, for Tibetan Buddhism’s future and culture, which by the looks of it is being preserved and shall flourish even more, because from China is can spread to the entire world.
Thank you Pastor David for sharing this rejoicing event, such beautiful pictures and video. May this 11th Holy Panchen Lama’s Dharma work flourish in greatness into the ten directions.
Thank you for sharing this rejoicing news on the mass Kalachakra Initiation by the 11th Panchen Lama. So many people in China would benefit from this Initiation especially when I know about the details on the Kalachakra practices and the importance of it as shared by Pastor David:
.
1. “The Kalachakra Tantra is an exception because the initiation can be given to the masses and has various benefits according to the level of the practitioner. For the highest practitioner, he or she will achieve Enlightenment through this practice; for the middling practitioner, he or she will continue to practice the Dharma in this and future lives; and for the lowest practitioner, he or she will be able to take rebirth in Shambhala through sincere practice although they may not achieve high attainments. Lastly, those who attend the initiation but do not practice will have the powerful blessings of Kalachakra planted in their mindstreams so that in the future, they too may be able to take rebirth in Shambhala as well.”
2. “The mystical kingdom of Shambhala is geographically located on our earth. As such, we have a stronger connection to this place and it is easier for us to take rebirth there compared to other pure lands. Therefore, when the Kalachakra initiation is given to the masses, the imprints and blessings of Kalachakra are planted in the minds of the masses and the causes are created for them to eventually take rebirth in Shambhala.”
Besides, I also rejoice to see the Chinese translation is available here: 第十一世班禅喇嘛首次授予时轮金刚灌顶 https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/panchen-lama-gives-kalachakra-initiation-2016.html
Sina: http://blog.sina.com.cn/s/blog_6d7edf5f0102x2og.html
Thank you!
China’s performance to stage the 11th Panchen Lama’s giving the Kalachakra is a tour de force. It is starting to look like China will be influential not only because of its products but soon because it will export its brand of Buddhism all over the world. Buddhism that is practical and suitable for the modern era.
The Panchen Lama has benefitted untold number of people Tibetans this time around, but I suppose the next one more of the Han Chinese would be participating and perhaps more outside China people. Such are the skillful methods of the Buddha to enable people who have the karma, merit an affinity to be reborn in Shambhala which is a place on planet Earth.
It is no easy feat that the 11th Panchen lama have done, I can’t help but feel a sense of pride that we were witness to a spiritual master, benefitting so many sentient beings. If the 11th Panchen Lama was fake, then much karmic calamities will befall him, but one does see him moving from strength to strength.
If the wrong man uses the right means, the
right means will work in the wrong way.
The communist tulku is not the real
tulku. They keep the real tulku in jail and
captivity.
@Robert Wood
What makes you think that this tulku is not real ? For all you know, they could both be the real deal. Tulkus are not ordinary beings limited by being in one body at a time. They are enlightened beings who have the ability to emanate into countless simultaneous emanations. Just because the Chinese think they are using him to control the Tibetans. Perhaps, he is also using the Chinese to spread Dharma as well. I am sure you didn’t think about that because you are not familiar with the abilities of a tulku.
Thank you Pastor David for pointing out that “They are enlightened beings who have the ability to emanate into countless simultaneous emanations.”
I like your perspective on “Perhaps, he is also using the Chinese to spread Dharma as well.” 🙂
To me, what is important is the spreading of Dharma and many people are benefiting from it.
May Dharma spread to the ten directions and may all sentient beings be free from sufferings.
If this Panchen Lama does not have the qualities of the Panchen Lama, he will soon face a lot of obstacles and difficulties, but watching his progress it seems like he is growing from strength to strength. The incarnations of a Lama, can be mind,speech, body, activities and can be more than one.
Dear Robert,
These days, it is so easy for people to accuse a lama of being a fake tulku or false reincarnation. On the one hand, we see some in Dharmasala saying that this Panchen Lama is ‘fake’ just because he was recognised and enthroned by the Chinese government. Then we see detractors of His Holiness the Dalai Lama claiming that he is not a real Dalai Lama because they disagree with some of his policies.
I wonder, can enlightened beings be so easily sidelined by man’s mere declaration? Can a samsaric being block a Buddha’s work? I think not. I read that all high lamas can have many concurrent emanations and reincarnations.
Politics aside, what I see is a monk who has undergone all the traditional training and who is fully qualified, blessings many people with the Dharma and stoking the people’s interest in the Dharma. This cannot be a bad thing and for sure it is a lot better than a supposedly correct incarnation not turning the wheel of Dharma or even leading people astray. I think there is much to rejoice in this alone.
May I ask, without having any intention to be offensive, what qualifies you to declare who is and who isn’t a real tulku?
Thank you
Quite wonderful to see this initiation happening. May many sentient beings benefit. Regardless of the politics involved we should really focus on and rejoice in the beings that will benefit from this kalachakra initiation. I’m not qualified to state who is and who isn’t the real Panchen Lama; however it resemebles that case of Karmapa controversy. I am going to take the minority view on this and say it is possible that there can be two Karmapas & two Panchen Lamas in order to benefit sentient beings because they can manifest in many different forms, and as far as I am concerned, they are both to be respected and perceived with pure appreciation.
Dear Tan
The communists are setting up a fake Tulku to recognize a fake 15th Dalai Lama.
Everyone already knows about the plot. This is nothing new.
Abe Lincoln said you can fool some of the people some of the time but you can’t fool all of the people all of the time.
Dear Rob,
For the benefit of the readers of this article, please allow me to share more info.
Bodhisattvas can manifest themselves in large number of bodies simultaneously, and in some cases, even manifesting an emanation before their deaths. High Lamas too may have a few reincarnations at the same time, for example, the incarnations of body, speech, mind and so on.
The principle reason for the reincarnation to return, and hence the importance of the recognition, is to proceed with the previous incarnation’s unfinished work to serve Dharma and creatures. As mentioned by His Holiness the Dalai Lama,
“In the case of a Lama who is an ordinary being, instead of having a reincarnation belonging to the same mind-stream, someone else with connections to that Lama through pure karma and prayers may be recognised as his or her emanation. Alternatively, it is possible for the Lama to appoint a successor who is either his disciple or someone young who is to be recognised as his emanation.”
So you see, this all can be quite confusing.
There are many issues with the Tulku system, and nowadays, we see more confusion and doubt arising due to this, apart from the 2 Panchen Lamas, there are the 2 Karmapas, and other ‘double’ reincarnations – some reincarnations supported by the predecessors’ students or organisations and the others ‘recognised’ by the Tibetan government/ authority. Even His Holiness the Dalai Lama is now evaluating whether or not the institution of the Dalai Lama should continue.
I share the view of Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche, that at the end of the day, Buddhism is more important than Tulku system. Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche also said that “If the Tibetans are not careful, this tulku system is going to ruin Buddhism.”
Panchen Lama Gyaincain Norbu is a qualified Vajra Master regardless and he is in a powerful position to promote Dharma to millions of Chinese. For that reason, I rejoice and also for the reason that this is the first Kalachakra initiation held publicly in Tibet/China in the last 50 years.
Dear Rob,
Agreed that “Abe Lincoln said you can fool some of the people some of the time but you can’t fool all of the people all of the time.”
I always believe that the law of Karma is very fair and we cannot run away from it as it will follow us lives after lives until we purify it or it has manifested.
Whether or not the 10th Panchen Lama is a real Tulku, Karma will tell. If HH is not a real Tulku, karma will take it causes and I do not think HH would be able to spread Dharma to so many people. From the look of it, HH the 11th Panchen Lama is now spreading Dharma and giving initiations like HH is continuing the work of HH the 10th Panchen Lama, I believe HH is real. I also have the same thinking that they might be another emanation of HH Panchen Lama as the enlightened beings have the ability to emanate into countless simultaneous emanations..
To me, whether real or not is not important. What is Important for me is that HH is a qualified Vajra Master who has received the initiation from a qualified Lama holding the Kalachakra lineage, practice Kalachakra single pointedly and engage in the fire puja upon completion of the required retreats in order for him to give the Kalachakra initiation The initiation of Kalachakra given would benefit the thousands of people receiving it.
I rejoice in the spreading of Dharma especially in this Buddhism degenerated era.
May HH live long and continue turning the wheel of Dharma.
With folded hands.
Dear Rob,
Until the day we are fully enlightened, how would we know who or what is a Buddha? How do we know that the HH the 14th Dalai Lama or any other Tulku is not a “fake”? Have you looked into this?
In the mean time, we have to rely on testing the actions of such persons against logic and the Dharma or Abidharma. This is a sure means for as long as we are not enlightened.
In this respect, I am always reminded of the five fundamental aspects of an enlightened being – body, speech, mind, qualities and activities.
I am not defending China, neither am I against HH Dalai Lama but thus far, I see no reason to doubt the Panchen Lama as an emanation of an enlightened being as he does radiate the five fundamental aspects of an enlightened being.
Dear Choong, I really like the way you look at circumstances and possibilities. I liked the way you look for spiritual answers in this case as it is a spiritual issue. I do hope you will comment more. I enjoy reading your comments.
When the communists arrested and imprisoned
the real Tulku, then only a boy, they massively
violated his civil and religious rights.
The communist Tulku never protested
these heinous acts of the CCP,
because he is a direct representative
and actor on behalf of the Chinese
Communist Party, which plots the
destruction of Buddha Dharma.
As a co-conspirator with destroyers of
dharma, unfortunately the communist Tulku
didn’t suddenly acquire recollection of
a life as the 10th Panchen Lama when
he pulled the ball out of the golden urn.
Dear Robert,
We do not know whether this Tulku in China knew what happened to the other Tulku, and whether he has protested, and it is unfair to call him a co-conspirator.
Like what Pastor David and Bradley commented, it is possible that there can be two Karmapas or Panchen Lamas.
The fact that the Tibetans are allowed to receive initiation in public and such a huge number of turn-out is something to rejoice about, regardless of whether the the Tulku is Panchen Lama or not.
Gyaincain Norbu has studied the subjects in Tibetan Buddhism, sutra, and logic since he was ten years old. He holds his monk vows that he received at a young age, and is a qualified teacher in terms of lineage and practice to give the initiation, especially when it comes to Kalachakra Tantra, one has to hold Bodhisattva Vows and Tantric Vows.
In order to give the initiation, one must first have received the initiation from a qualified Lama holding the Kalachakra lineage, practice Kalachakra single-pointedly and engage in the fire puja upon completion of the required retreats. On that basis, whether or not he is the real Panchen, he is a qualified Vajra Master to give initiations and teachings.
Dear Robert,
I believe everyone has shared with you many possibilities, scenarios, examples, info of why this Panchen Lama could plausibly be another emanation of the previous Panchen Lama and working smartly to spread the Dharma. But if your mind remains closed and choose to only believe one side of the story and whatever is being heavily disseminated and pounded from Dharamsala, I believe nothing we say could bring light for you to think that there is some logic and possible truth to what we are proposing.
In anyway whether or not He is the real deal or not, only time will tell, like you say… there is KARMA…. because I do not think this Panchen Lama can be someone “ordinary” even if He is a great actor China hired to continue playing this role of a highly attained Lama with ease in front of millions and hundreds of other high Lamas forever. Imagine all the pujas, scriptures, tantra teachings etc he has to learn, memorise, absorb and then teach others. On top of that to have such a magnetic charisma to carry yourself and sit on such a high throne to bless millions. No ordinary being will be able to pull it of with such natural grace, you need to be someone really quit special and talented seriously. And even if He is not the real Panchen, well He is still be blessing millions, planting Dharma seed to millions and spreading the Dharma in China. That alone is a wow factor.
Let us analyse and think deeper… who are the ones going around telling everyone He is fake, without any real concrete evidences? Besides the Tibetan Leadership who continues to say He is a fake, while achieving no real solutions to bring themselves or H.H. the Dalai Lama any closer back to Tibet, to benefit themselves or their people back in Tibet, who else is really arguing with China on this?
You see it is very simple logic, if you still want to argue, fight and fire with fire, with your so called enemy, and with of all nations, China, we know the results is never ever going to be positive, ever. Looks at all the many examples of war thorn countries, Israel, Pakistan, Irag, Palestine etc etc… countries that are always fighting their “self-righteous, holier than thou, I am right you are wrong wars” and never gaining anything instead more loses. Would you say any of them are doing the right thing in the name of their religion?
Those who are always affected from such ego power battles are always the people. And as a Buddhist society and nation, shouldn’t the better example of compassion, tolerance, forgiveness and wisdom come from those who preach it themselves – in this case, the Buddhist nation, Dharamsala??? How does it make them any better, holier, or right when they keep hitting, fighting, condemning their “enemy”? Cause and effect is a simple understanding of their results. So How does that bring peace and dialogue with China any closer? It has not for over 50 years now and will continue to be so without much improvements if this is the same method the Tibetan Leadership continues to apply unfortunately… it will be a losing battle. And of all nations, the “Buddhist” one should know better how to behave I would say. Let’s be honest, and sorry to say, I think the world is slowly getting less interested in the Tiebtan Leadership’s plight without much results, as we all know economics affects everyone and Dharamsala does nothing to contribute in this sector unfortunately, this is the reality. And it does not help the Tibetan plight get any better with the many mistakes His Holiness has been accidentally or not accidentally, manifesting deliberately or not deliberately lately…
– https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/what-happened-to-the-compassionate-dalai-lama.html
– http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2015/09/24/dalai-lama-women-attractive_n_8186726.html
– https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/tibetan-refugee-youth-speaking-up.html
Bottom line is… whether you choose to believe Dharamsala’s spin and say He is fake or not, is only your take, but at least here we see hundreds of thousands of Tibetans receiving the Dharma, and the lineage and traditions of Tibetan Buddhism are being preserved together with Tibetan Culture, that itself gives hope for the estimated of 7.8 million Tibetans. I would say is not bad.
P.S. If the Dalai Lama is a great Bodhisattva which He is no doubt, wouldn’t the best and right thing to do is to take rebirth in China? So He can be of more benefit to His people then and also fulfil His wish to return to Tibet and from there spread Buddhism again?
The motivation should always be about spreading and preserving the holy Buddha Dharma and not so much about politics or geographical territories and possessions of this temporary samsaric world for there will always be politics everywhere, anywhere in samsara. We know this, so why expect anything different? Just a thought.
There are just so many possibilities. We don’t know for sure.
One is that the other Tulku that is/was imprisoned is also an emanation playing the part of being “sacrificed”.
This is more likely than this boy/man being an ordinary person whose karma was to ripen in such a unique circumstance.
As I stated earlier, let’s just weigh the Panchen Lama against the five attributes of an enlightened being – body, speech, mind, qualities and activities.
Robert, Do not look only at Dharamasala’s version of things. They didn’t do such a good job and they have much corruption and scandals in their 50 years in ‘power’. It’s been 50 years in exile and they are not getting closer to getting Tibet back in the way they want it. It shows there is no support from the international community as it’s not something people want to support. If all that you say has merit, then there will be support from all democratic countries. Does your country’s government support Tibetan independence? If it does not, that should say a lot.
P.S. If China is doing all that it’s doing (supposedly harmful) to Tibet, why are all democratic countries allowing it? All democratic nations (Japan, USA, UK, German, Australia, Canada, etc) firmly stipulate Tibet is a inalienable part of China. They do not lodge formal protests or any disagreements to China’s internal policies. Therefore if these governments believe that Tibet is a part of China and China can run its country how it likes, then you should be writing your own governments to do something about Tibet. Because these governments are just watching China ‘eat up Tibet’ right? Whether China wants to install and promote the ‘real’ Panchen Lama or the ‘fake’ one, then all these countries are allowing it by trading with China right? So besides the Panchen issue, there are many other issues you and some of your same thinking people might have against the current policies in China right? Well you should write to your own government. China can do what it’s doing as all these countries trade with them and never speak up.
Just food for thought. The Tibetan exiled government (CTA) has created two Karmapas, two Domo Geshe Rinpoches, two Kundelings and two 10th Panchens and there are more. The CTA in Dharamsala are not innocent.
It seems politics has totally overshadowed Robert’s perspective and he cannot see beyond the title of the post. Because he clearly didn’t read the conclusion posited at the end of the article, which people have brought to his attention over and over again – you don’t need to be a tulku for an initiation or empowerment to be valid. You just need to be a practitioner who has done the retreats…you don’t even need to be a monk!
FYI the 10th Panchen Lama worked very closely with the Chinese leadership. He may have been critical at certain moments in his life but in general, he had a good relationship with them. He married a Han Chinese woman…did he betray his close friend, the Dalai Lama? Why are you so selective? Why don’t you spend your time online besmirching his good name too?
This is indeed an event worth celebrating. Rejoice! For the Tibetans, it has been 60 years since their last mass initiation. China has gone through some turmoil for the past few decades, and this was a suppression of religions in general for many years, therefore, it is excellent to see that China government has loosen their tight grip of their control over religion. This is understandable because not too long ago, people used Fa Lun Gong to try to topple the government.
The second reason why it is a happy event is because this is the first mass initiation by the 11th Panchen Lama. This young Panchen Lama has gone through many years of learning and practice, and this can be seen from the confidence during the initiation.
I think one of the important point Pastor David pointed out is that anyone who has received the authentic Kalachakra initiation and gone through the necessary retreats and fire puja, then the person can give initiation.
I know Dharamsala claims that this 11th Panchen Lama (who is enthroned by China government) is fake. But if a sincere practitioner gives initiation and benefit hundreds of thousands of people, shouldn’t we all rejoice? Why claimed the initiation is fake, where this initiation can be conferred by ANYONE who is qualified, and that person do not need to be Panchen Lama or Dalai Lama. Regardless if it is a public stunt, an authentic initiation is an authentic initiation, and it will benefit the recipients.
Although I don’t quite agree with what HH Dalai Lama did to Dorje Shugden practitioners, I still rejoice when HH Dalai Lama gave mass initiation, because this will help the spreading of Dharma. I hope Tibetans in exile can think logically, and let go of their hatred, because hatred is not helping them in their spiritual practice at all.
感謝這篇非常鉅細靡遺的文章，讓我初次了解時輪灌頂（Kalachakra Initiation）為何。
文中提到這是史上第一次由第十一世班禪喇嘛主持這個極其殊勝的儀式，之前都是由尊貴的達賴喇嘛主持，這表示藉由這次的儀式主持，能夠打破部分人對於第十一世班禪喇嘛的質疑。同時從文中也了解到當前中國政府對於宗教的態度，如今的中國政府已逐漸以更開放的態度去面對宗教這項議題，這是一件非常讓人歡喜的事，尤其身為佛教徒的我們。
What a lovely article – Thank you for this, Pastor David!
It is with great joy to read this article. Indeed, it is a historic event, firstly because its the first from the current incarnation of Panchen Lama and the first to be done publicly in Tibet/China in over 50 years since the cultural revolution. It is historic because it shows China embracing and proliferating Buddhism, and it is sure to continue to grow.
Everyone deserves a right to practice religion, and the Buddha Dharma will be needed by many, especially as materialism and globalisation continues as suffering increases. It is also nice to see that ALL are welcome to the initiation, no matter whether they practice Dorje Shugden or not. Those who are refrained from attending Kalachakra initiation by the Dalai Lama, can be welcomed to this. It is lovely to see that everyone has a right to religious freedom, through this event.
Didn’t know that Panchen Lama is an incarnation of the Shambala King. His deeds to spread the BuddhaDharma to so many and benefit so many is befitting of a true Tulku.
Thank you very much Rinpoche and Pastor David for sharing this article. This is one great article because it clears people’s doubt (especially haters) about HH 11th Panchen Lama’s credibility as the rightful reincarnation of HH previous life. This Kalachakra initiation is also timely and appropriate because HHLP is well known to be an emanation of Buddha Amithaba and also King of Shambala.
It is great to see HHPL starting to benefit people especially in the land of Tibet. This is the first ever initiation event being held since last organised 50 years back. It shows the government of China is serious in encouraging religion practice and especially to the citizens who are still staying in Tibet after so many years. I am quite shocked to read that over 100k people (Sangha and locals) were present. No joke, 100k.
This goes to show people have faith with HHPL despite claims that HH is not the true Panchen Lama and He is not qualified to give such initiations. HHPL also received a lot of support from the Sangha members. I believe in HHPL too because it takes someone who is real and attained to be able to give such initiation.
I rejoice to see so many of them can go to such event without having to worry about being barred to enter because they suspect you as practising Dorje Shugden. People comes in with a free mind and reap the power of the blessings.
Thank you.
It is really blessed to read this article and rejoice that so many people has benefitted from the Kalachakra initiation by the Panchen Lama. No doubt that this Panchen Lama is the real Panchen Lama because of his ability at such a young age. He has been on his throne for 20 years and able to give this initiation so that many people benefit from it.
As stated in the article:
“the Kalachakra Tantra is an exception because the initiation can be given to the masses and has various benefits according to the level of the practitioner. For the highest practitioner, he or she will achieve Enlightenment through this practice; for the middling practitioner, he or she will continue to practice the Dharma in this and future lives; and for the lowest practitioner, he or she will be able to take rebirth in Shambhala through sincere practice although they may not achieve high attainments. Lastly, those who attend the initiation but do not practice will have the powerful blessings of Kalachakra planted in their mindstreams so that in the future, they too may be able to take rebirth in Shambhala as well.”
The Chinese government is able to support Buddhism in the masses to its people and shows that the government is pro-Buddhism. The are reviving Buddhism in a controlled manner so that their citizen can reap the benefits and not just about materialism.
Rejoice for the people in Tibet who is so fortunate to receive the Kalachakra initiation from the 11th Panchen Lama. People say Chinese government does not give religious freedom, suppress people from practising religion. But in this case, Chinese government actually sponsored this event, there were close to 100,000 people participating the initiation. Therefore, if a religion’s objective is to promote spirituality, morality, there is no any political elements, Chinese government will not oppose. In fact, it is very wise of the Chinese government to encourage spiritual practice because it promotes harmony and respect among the people.
It is also very rejoicing to know the 11th Panchen Lama is ready to give initiation, teachings to the public to fulfil the purpose of his coming back as a high lama.
谢谢黎国圆讲法师那么用心的分享。
随喜至尊第十一世班禅喇嘛的佛法事业蓬勃发展。 这个史无前列的时轮金刚灌顶有超过十万人出席， 这也包括了在家众、僧侣、僧尼、转世活佛等等。
以出席率来看也证明了西藏还是有无数的修行者， 而且他们对至尊第十一世班禅喇嘛是有着非常崇高的敬意。这也打破了很多人对于至尊第十一世班禅喇嘛的指责， 说他的时轮金刚法门是不纯正的。
愿至尊第十一世班禅喇嘛长寿、健康、及把佛法弘扬到各地。
谢谢
感谢你的分享
很开心看到那么多人能够参与这一次在西藏日喀则的扎什伦布寺重要宗教仪式。这也是50年来首次由尊贵的班禅喇嘛主持这个仪式，殊胜的时轮金刚灌顶。这是非常殊胜与难得，看来尊贵的第十一世世班禅喇嘛，在经过多年的佛法训练后，开始为中国的藏传佛教，给与崭新的一页，开始把佛法的加持与祝福，传递给每一个人。
尊贵的达赖喇嘛是观世音菩萨的化身，但是许多人其实都忘记了，其实在西藏格鲁的活佛转世体系里，除了达赖，还有一位一样重要的转世体系就是班禅喇嘛的转世，而班禅喇嘛是阿弥陀佛与香巴拉国王的化身，而香巴拉与时轮金刚有着密不可分的关系，佛陀是在秘密主金刚手的化身——香巴拉国王达哇然波(Dawa Zangpo)的请求下，教授了时轮金刚密续的。此後，时轮金刚密续的修法就在香巴拉变得十分重要。事实上，整个香巴拉王国就是时轮金刚的坛城。并且从那时起，历代所有的香巴拉国王都是时轮金刚密续教法的传承持有者。
而如今，在众生的因缘业力的关系下，尊贵的班禅喇嘛给予此殊胜的灌顶，祈愿每一位众生都能够有这样的机会，得到殊胜的密续灌顶，并谨守戒律，严加修行直至获得证悟。
谢谢
Jerry Sito
It is auspicious and nice to see that China is going back to its spiritual roots following the destruction and aftermath of the Cultural Revolution.
Only spirituality can ensure a continued balanced development of culture and society.
May the teachings of Lord Buddha and Je Tsongkhapa spread in the ten directions.
May an innumerable number of sentient beings benefit from the protector Dorje Shugden.
Amazing article, thank you Rinpoche and Pastor David. The information in this article has erased the myth planted in my mind that the Kalachakra initiation was solely by the Dalai Lama.
The historical information in the article that the Panchen Lama is the reincarnation of the Shambala king reinforces that initiations granted by the Panchen Lama will give great hope of salvation to Buddhists who practises diligently the opportunity to enter Shambala, pure land on earth.
I rejoice to also note that such a historical and auspicious and huge event was organised by the Chinese Government who is patron to the Panchen Lama. Thinking of the Beijing Olympics gives me great joy that with the freedom of religion in China, the Dharma will spread far and wide in all ten directions.
Without discrimination against Dorje Shugden devotees is another joy to celebrate, now DS practitioners will not be marginalised from initiations and teachings.
May the Dharma spread exponentially to benefit many sentients beings.
A refreshing start to the week by reading this riveting account of Kalachakra initiation by the 11th Panchen Lama Baingen Erdini Qoigyijabu. This is a summary of what I gathered from this post:
1. This is the first Kalachakra initiation to be held publicly in Tibet/China in the last 50 years.
2. Over 100,000 attended the initiation and teachings, which included over 5,000 monks and nuns and 100 incarnated lamas and teachers.
3. On the night before, it had rained and continued to drizzle intermittently on the first day. It also rained during the previous Kalachakra initiation that was led by His Holiness the 10th Panchen Lama. The 10th Panchen Lama had explained that the rain indicated purification.
4. The meaning of Kalachakra literally means the ‘Wheel of Time’ in Sanskrit or Dukyi Khorlo in Tibetan.
5. Kalachakra Tantra was a teaching by Buddha Shakyamuni by the request of Suchandra (a King of Shambhala). It is a method to practice Dharma without renouncing worldly responsibilities. It is now one of the most advanced Tantric systems within Tibetan Buddhism.
6. Miracle of the Buddha: Kalachakra Tantra was taught by Buddha in Dhanyakataka (nearby modern-day Amaravati in Andhra Pradesh) and simultaneously with another teaching on Vulture’s Peak in the state of Bihar.
7. The Kalachakra initiation is not something new for the Panchen Lama but a continuation of the practice from previous lives. In fact, the Kalachakra Tantra is a specialty of his incarnation line.
8. How to prepare and what to prepare for such a huge event: huge screens to display the proceedings that was happening on stage for audience stationed afar, numerous temporary water stations and portable washrooms, emergency aid i.e. 50 doctors and nurses positioned in 11 medical squads bases that were careful placed. Everyone is welcome to attend this event.
9. Judging by the preparatory work, it is apparent that the Chinese government gave their full support to this event, which means religious freedom is being practiced and a common practice in China. As compared to Dharamsala and teachings by Dalai Lama who barred Dorje Shugden practitioners from attending.
Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor David Lai for this uplifting write up.
Just to add on, Tibetans are fiercely loyal to their Guru. With over 100,000 people in attendance, it shows that the young Panchen Lama’s base of loyalist is growing and growing strong. This literally means that more and more Tibetan are ready to defend Panchen Lama and his teaching. Historically, Dorje Shugden is one of the main Protectors of the Panchen Lamas as well as Tashi Lhunpo, the monastic seat of the Panchen Lamas. We will most certainly see the rise of Dorje Shugden’s practice alongside the fame and influence of the 11th Panchen Lama.
Thank you, Rinpoche and Pastor David for this informative article. It answered my curiosity on why Kalachakra initiation is held en masse.
In fact, this is the first time I’m hearing about the 11th Panchen Lama. And, it is such an auspicious occasion to learn of him.
I particularly like the part about the Shambala kings and their subjects receiving he Kalachakra teachings directly from Buddha Skakyamuni a method to practice the Dharma without renouncing worldly responsibilities.
May the 11th Panchen Lama continue to turn the Wheel of Dharma and liberate more sentient beings.
He is the real deal.
Only DL presents false Tulkus and Buddhas.
Remember when DL announced the Location of the newly reincarnate Panchen lama in Lhasa on Radio Free America? The authorities picked him up in a few hours.
He parades a false Domo Geshe Rinpoche and many others. Funny thing is this Panchen Lama will determine the next Dalia Lama fate. There is nothing DL can do to prevent this.
Thanks Pastor. This is great news. May the lineage of Lama Tsongkhapa thrive! May the Tantra of Kalachakra and the practice Lord Dorje Shugden shine over China with the efforts of His Holiness the Panchen Lama!