Methar of Tengyeling Monastery
This stunning Methar statue carved of wood is on the main Dorje Shugden altar as part of the entourage in Kechara Forest Retreat.
(By Tsem Rinpoche)
Dear friends around the world,
I wanted to share with all of you the story of the very potent Methar and how he arose as a dharma protector and came to be a part of Dorje Shugden’s mandala. He was placed under the care of Kache Marpo, who is Dorje Shugden’s main assistant. This protector has a very interesting but tragic story, and yet he is a very powerful being that can aid practitioners quickly and effectively. Serkong Dorje Chang and his son Serkong Tsenshab Rinpoche (debate partner of the 14th Dalai Lama) of Gaden Jangtse Monastery are among the many who relied on this protector. His story is one of political intrigue, unholy plots against innocent men and murder. Please read carefully and understand Methar’s origins well. It is very fascinating. You can also have a free download of Methar’s painting which cannot be found easily. I must thank my team for their help in research, composition and artwork for this fantastic post.
Tsem Rinpoche
The Dharma protector Methar. In his previous life he was the treasurer of Tengyeling Monastery. He was brutally killed and then arose as a Dharma protector. Click above to go to the BUDDHA IMAGES section to download a free high resolution copy.
Background
During the period of His Holiness the 13th Dalai Lama, there was an attempt to assassinate him by means of black magic. When the 13th Dalai Lama was around 20 years old, he was given a pair of silk soles for his shoes by one of his senior tutors, the 9th Demo Rinpoche, Ngawang Lobsang Trinle Rabgye. Demo Rinpoche in turn had been given the silk soles by a stranger, who was a Ngakpa. Ngakpas are non-monastic practitioners who follow a different set of vows as compared to lay practitioners. Thinking that they were too precious for him, Demo Rinpoche offered them to the 13th Dalai Lama.
The 4th Demo Rinpoche, Lhawang Tenpai Gyaltsen, a student of the great 5th Dalai Lama, was a previous incarnation of the 9th Demo Rinpoche. This thangka is said to bear his actual likeness, as opposed to traditional thangkas which are more stylised. Click to enlarge.
Demo Rinpoche held the position of Regent of Tibet between 1886-1895, before the 13th Dalai Lama was enthroned and he was also known as the Demo Khutuktu. ‘Khutuktu’ being a Mongolian title given to high lamas just like the title ‘Rinpoche’ that is used in Tibet.
Around the same time, the Nechung oracle Rago Chenpa, visited Tsuglak Khang temple which is better known as Jokhang, where Palden Lhamo is said to reside. There he removed live scorpions from under the statue of Palden Lhamo with his bare hands, exclaiming that it was a bad omen. He told the monks of Drepung Loseling Monastery where the 13th Dalai Lama’s residence was, to be on their guard.
The 13th Dalai Lama happily accepted the offering of silk soles and was just about to wear them, when the protector Nechung took spontaneous trance and warned, “You cannot wear this. It may have something bad that can harm you. You should cut it first then wear it.” After the attendants of the Dalai Lama cut open the soles, they found a black magic spell inside in the form of a chakra. The Kashag, or Tibetan Government, conducted an investigation into the attempt to kill the 13th Dalai Lama and made inquiries into who gave the gift to the Dalai Lama.
Tengyeling Monastery was situated in Lhasa. Here we see a picture taken from Tengyeling’s rooftop in 1900. The Potala Palace can clearly be seen in the background.
When they found out that it was actually Demo Rinpoche who gifted the silk soles, he was tried for treason and he was consequently expelled from his position. His ladrang was sealed and a ban was placed on the search for his reincarnations in the future, a political move the Tibetan government had employed in the past, as in the case of Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen. In fact it was declared that no Demo Rinpoche would ever be eligible to hold the position of Regent ever again. This was announced publically. At the same time, a close associate of Demo Rinpoche called Nyari Tulku was also arrested on suspicion of being the one who cast the black magic intending harm upon the 13th Dalai Lama. The Tibetan Government had him tortured and killed in a painful and horrific manner. Nyari Tulku was innocent and after his gruesome death he arose as Nyatrul, a powerful spirit determined to exact vengeance by destroying the Tibetan government.
The official seal of Demo Rinpoche, which includes both Tibetan and Mongolian script.
Demo Rinpoche was later summoned to the Potala Palace on the pretext of attending a religious ceremony, but he was held captive instead. Many of Demo Rinpoche’s relatives and monks from his Tengyeling Monastery also suffered the same fate. Tengyeling Monastery was one of the four great Regency monasteries, from which a Regent would be chosen between the successive incarnations of Dalai Lamas. It was built in the 17th century and was also famous for its religious Cham dances. The Regent would rule the country in the period between the passing into clear light of a Dalai Lama and when his new incarnation turned 18 years old. The Tengyeling Regency was considered the most important of the four Regency seats which included the Kundeling, Tsemonling and Tsechogling Regencies. The tradition of Demo Rinpoche becoming Regent began with the 6th Demo Rinpoche, Ngawang Jampel Delek Gyatso, who ruled between 1757 and 1777. He was bestowed the Mongolian title Khutuktu and declared the Regent of Tibet by the Qianlong Emperor of China. This highlights the level of interaction between native Tibetans and the Chinese in matters of State. The 7th Demo Rinpoche also ruled Tibet between 1811 and 1819.
Demo Rinpoche’s nephews, Norbu Tsering and Palcho Lobsang were sentenced to life imprisonment. Since Demo Rinpoche was the former Regent and Abbot of Tengyeling Monastery, his punishment was less severe. He was ordered to enter into life-long retreat in a house built in the courtyard of his Tengyeling Monastery. It was here under this house-arrest that the Demo Rinpoche passed away. Some claim that he was murdered by agents of the Tibetan government, by being put in a barrel or large container and drowned.
The official seal from the Qianlong Emperor declaring the 6th Demo Rinpoche as Regent of Tibet
Demo Rinpoche shouldered the blame for the assassination attempt purely because the Kashag (Tibetan government) could not find the Ngakpa who originally gave him the silk shoe soles. The 9th in his reincarnation lineage, Demo Rinpoche was actually a highly accomplished and great master. Not only did he serve as Regent of Tibet, he was also the abbot of his monastery, tutor to the 13th Dalai Lama and commanded tremendous respect from the Sangha community.
Tengyeling monastery and its various estates were seized by the Kashag, leading to the decline of the monastery’s coffer. Many of the monks and people who lived there became bitter towards the Kashag due to the treatment Demo Rinpoche suffered and the unjust treatment meted out to their monastery.
The Chinese Invasion
In 1910, the Chinese invaded Lhasa forcing the 13th Dalai Lama to flee. During that time Tengyeling Monastery aided the Chinese troops and the monastery became one of the Chinese army’s strongholds. It is said that the Tengyeling oracle, who took trance of the Dharma protector Tsiu Marpo (also known as Kache Marpo), told the monks to aid the Chinese and fight against the Kashag of the 13th Dalai Lama. Since Demo Rinpoche had great faith in Tsiu Marpo and took him as his personal protector, he had built a protector chapel to him in the monastery. Since then Tsiu Marpo became the protector of Tengyeling Monastery.
However the Chinese forces were not able to hold on to Lhasa for long. They were in a strange environment and the local Tibetan fighters knew the intricate Lhasa streets better than the Chinese. They also stopped receiving aid and reinforcements from China. They were soon overwhelmed and captured by the Tibetan army.
In 1912, once the Chinese has been expelled from Lhasa, the Kashag sought to punish those who had aided the invading army. Tengyeling Monastery, that had acted as a Chinese stronghold was one of the first to be targeted. The monastery was ransacked and destroyed. Monks involved in aiding the Chinese forces were brutally imprisoned and those who were not involved were later sent to other monasteries. This marked the end of the Tengyeling Monastery and the line of Tengyeling oracles who took trance of Tsiu Marpo (Kache Marpo).
How Methar Arose
At the time, the treasurer of Tengyeling was a lay man called Methar. He was an ardent disciple of Demo Rinpoche and loved the monastic community of Tengyeling. He practiced the Dharma to the best of his ability and was obviously trustworthy enough to hold such an important position within the monastery. This position would have only be bestowed on someone qualified to do a good job and would have been appointed by the holy monastic community themselves, showing he was a person who was well respected.
The holy master Serkong Dorje Chang, Ngawang Tsultrim Donden, who subdued Methar and placed him under the care of Kache Marpo.
Due to their greed and jealousy in wanting the resources of Tengyeling, the Tibetan government had Methar imprisoned. In fact many people claim that the whole situation surrounding the silk soles that Demo Rinpoche gave to the 13th Dalai Lama had been orchestrated by the Tibetan government and high officials. They were jealous of Demo Rinpoche’s status and influence as a previous Regent, so they hatched a plot to over throw him and take his monastery’s resources for their own. This mirrors what had happened to Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen, who was brutally murdered for his growing influence and the jealousy of the Tibetan government.
While in prison, Methar was tortured by the Tibetan army. He was asked to give up the location of Tengyeling’s accumulated resources, such as the gold, silver, gems and other precious and holy items that the monastery had been bestowed over time and relied on for their sustenance. However, Methar’s guru devotion and loyalty to the Sangha was exemplary. He would not give the Tibetan government what they wanted, no matter what they did to him, thereby protecting the memory of his holy guru.
During the torture, Methar was horrifically skinned alive, brutally disembowelled and stabbed repeatedly. Throughout the whole gruesome and savage ordeal, Methar remembered his guru and Kache Marpo, the Dharma protector of Tengyeling, a sign of his intense devotion. However due to the excruciating circumstances of his passing, Methar developed anger. This led him to take rebirth as a ferocious spirit bent on revenge and he caused a lot of harm. He had arisen to right the wrongs inflicted upon himself, his guru and the monastery.
Kache Marpo, emanation of Hayagriva and main assistant to Dorje Shugden (top right) who protects the teachings of Lama Tsongkhapa (top left). Click to enlarge.
As mentioned in his biography, Serkong Dorje Chang subdued Methar who became a potent Dharma protector. Having been requested to perform wrathful fire pujas and rituals necessary to bind ferocious spirits, Serkong Dorje Chang simply gave Methar Dharma teachings. Serkong Dorje Chang taught Methar about the negative karmic effects of harming others and about developing compassion. Since Methar had strong Dharmic imprints and devotion from his previous life, his mind turned back towards the Dharma and he willingly took an oath as a Dharma protector. This is an important point, since powerful beings need to willingly take an oath to become Dharma protectors.
Serkong Dorje Chang placed him into Dorje Shugden’s mandala, under the care of Kache Marpo who Methar had a strong connection with from his previous life. As treasurer of Tengyeling monastery, Methar would have relied heavily on Kache Marpo as his protector. This shows that Methar’s faith, trust and devotion to Kache Marpo was strong even in his new rebirth.
Methar took rebirth as a spirit due to the anger that arose during his extreme torture and death. This anger, rather than a sign of his guilt, is actually a sign of his innocence. He arose in this form due to the power of having truth on his side and devotion to his guru. As he was being tortured he realised why the Tibetan government had treated Demo Rinpoche and Tengyeling so badly. It became clear that due to their greed and jealously, they wanted Tengyeling’s resources for themselves. Rather than giving into this, he withstood the torture due to the power of truth that his guru and monastery were not to blame at all for the assassination attempt on the 13th Dalai Lama.
His anger arose because the Tibetan government had let their greed take the better of them, to the extent of harming his guru and the holy Tengyeling monastery. This anger was what led to his current form, but his mind was still that of a Dharma practitioner. Hence Serkong Dorje Chang subdued him by teaching him the Dharma rather than having to resort to wrathful pujas. Methar’s merits from his previous life in protecting his guru and Tengyeling by taking on the pain and suffering of torture and death allowed him to arise a Dharma protector. Now, Methar once again continues his virtuous work of practising the Dharma and benefiting others through his role as a Dharma protector.
Ruins of Tengyeling Monastery in 1921 after it was destroyed by the Tibetan government.
Methar’s Iconography
Methar is depicted wearing the colourful clothes of a high-ranking lay official, since he was the treasurer of Tengyeling monastery. His hair is in a top-knot like the lay officials of the past in Tibet. His face is human and he has fangs that bite down on his lower lip, like Setrap and Kache Marpo. In his right hand he holds a spear and in his left he holds a mala. He is depicted riding a blue horse on an ocean of blood.1 (To download a picture of Methar click here)
In another more wrathful depiction, Methar is seen having a human head, similar to the depiction above. He has his long black hair in a top-knot and his fangs biting down on his lower lip are dripping with human blood. However from the neck down his body is flayed exposing his red and bloodied flesh. He holds a spear his right hand that is black and he pierces the heart of a corpse that he stands on. All of this is above an ocean of dead bodies and blood. The mala in his left hand is made of bloody human skulls and he uses it as a lasso to bind the corpse by the neck. He also uses this mala to count the heads of those evil beings he has slain.
It is said that when this wrathful form takes trance of an oracle, it is characteristic of Methar to hold up his oracular apron, as if he was staring at his own flayed body and gutted belly. He also makes a sound, like he was being stabbed. This is a reminder of his violent death that led to arising in his current form. Only after doing this will he speak.
Praise to Tengyeling’s Dharmaphala Methar
The great incarnation whose nature is Yamantaka,
whose countless deeds of bringing many who are ripened
onto the path of the sublime Sage (Shakyamuni), to
this wondrous incarnation named His Holiness
Kyabje Demo Hutuktu Rinpoche, I offer obeisance!Moist with devotion, faith and service to the great Demo Hutuktu,
Stalwart devotee Methar accepted wrongly the punishments due to others’ greed.
Although his lama, monastery and Methar himself the treasurer were innocent, all was lost.
Flayed, tortured and stabbed, Methar focused on his lama and the truth as his life force drained.Arise Dharmaphala Methar, oath bound by the compassion of Serkong Dorje Chang,
Fulfill your duty and give me your protection, potent signs and ever constant presence.
May I gain bodhicitta and arise in the form of the Sugata. Homage to the
Tengyeling Monastic treasurer arising as Dharmaphala Methar who served his lama completely!Mantra: OM DHARMAPALA METHAR SARWA SIDDHI HUNG HUNG
(recite many times to invoke Methar’s assistance and energy)
Composed by Tsem Tulku of Kechara, October 4, 2016
Serkong Dorje Chang’s Biography by Zemey Rinpoche
Serkong Tsenshab (son of the 2nd Serkong Dorje Chang) asked Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche to write the namthar or biography of the 1st Serkong Dorje Chang. Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche was preocupied at the time so he asked Zemey Rinpoche to write it. Zemey Rinpoche wrote a root text of Serkong Dorje Chang’s biography that mentions his connection with Methar explicitly. In Volume Nga, pages 559-562, Zemey Rinpoche recounts how Serkong Dorje Chang subdued Methar and how he arose as a Dharma protector. Please see below for a translation.
English Translation
Legend:
[ ] = indicates information or a phrase that has been added for clarity or context
Methar was a Tengyeling staff attached to the main changtso [manager / assistant] Nyima Drug Trag. After he died, he came back as a ghost. [Gen-la’s note: Zemey Rinpoche was close to Gaden Phodrang at the time of composing this namthar about Serkong Dorjechang so he could not write about the murder and how Methar was really killed]
After he died, Methar went in the direction of the outskirts of Lhasa, and started to hide and steal things. People knew he was stealing these things but they just could not see him or his form.
During a Kalachakra initiation in Gaden being given by Serkong Dorjechang, Gaden Lhokpa Khangtsen Gyal Se Rinpoche brought Methar with him for the initiation. Methar actually went with the lama in the form of a man. He said, “Except for Serkong Dorjechang, no one knows about me.”
Gradually, Methar was connected with the Zi Bug Pel Rab Pa’i family. At the time, Methar was very angry. After inviting Serkong Dorjechang three times, he was later bound by an oath.
On Serkong Dorjechang’s second visit to the Zi Bug Pel Rab Pa’i family, he passed by the holy place of Gonpo [Mahakala] called Drom Thöd Dar Lung Nyen Gyi Phodrang. After visiting this holy place, he then went to the Zi Bug Pel Rab Pa’i family’s house.
The mother of the family spontaneously took trance and when Serkong Dorjechang arrived, Methar, taking trance of the mother, said, “My Bodhisattva guru has arrived.” Methar then paid his respects to him. Serkong Dorjechang also gave him a teaching and advice about cause and effect, saying, “You should show compassion to sentient beings.” At the end, Serkong Dorjechang said, “Stop harming sentient beings and go to the place named Drom Thöd. I have requested Gonpo Chag Drug [Six-Armed Mahakala] to give you the position of changtso.”
Serkong Dorjechang told him, “During your journey to that place, you should maintain compassion and for your food, take this bowl of chang [barley beer].” Then, instead of handing the bowl to Methar, Serkong Dorjechang poured the chang. Not a single drop of chang however, fell to the floor and it floated in the air. Those who were present were surprised.
Methar took the chang and set off on his journey to Drom Thöd. After that incident, the Zi Bug Pel Rab Pa’i family and their place was calm for a long period of time.
When Serkong Dorjechang was near a bridge called Dechen Zampa, suddenly the spirit Methar came there and offered a namzö [a khata of the best quality] to him. At the time, Serkong Dorjechang was riding a horse. With his khata offering, Methar resigned as the assistant of Gonpo then went back to the Zi Bug Pel Rab Pa’i family and made problems for them.
So Serkong Dorjechang went back to the Zi Bug Pel Rab Pa’i family house and explained to Methar about the karma of harming others, and the benefit of helping others. Methar was so impressed and touched by the advice of Serkong Dorjechang that he took an oath that he will never harm anyone.
After that, Methar was accepted as a Protector and a tenkhang [Protector chapel] was built. Serkong Dorjechang requested the jindak [sponsor] of the Meldro area to do daily prayers to Methar at that tenkhang. Serkong Dorjechang also told Methar, “You should always be helpful to them.” After that, Serkong Dorjechang composed a praise of Methar.
Original Tibetan
Serkong Dorje Chang’s Biography by Rakra Rinpoche
The 2nd Serkong Dorje Chang (left) and the son of his previous life Serkong Tsenshab (right). It is said that Dorje Shugden told the 1st Serkong Dorje Chang to take a consort and together they bore Serkong Tsenshab. This picture of the son and his reincarnated father is very rare.
Rakra Rinpoche composed a commentary to Serkong Dorje Chang’s biography, which was written by Zemey Rinpoche. In it he clarifies what is briefly mentioned in Zemey Rinpoche’s writing. If anything was explained clearly in Zemey Rinpoche’s text, it is not given much attention in Rakra Rinpoche’s version. However if Zemey Rinpoche only briefly mentioned something, then Rakra Rinpoche expanded upon it in his version. On pages 184-191, Rakra Rinpoche clarifies points regarding Serkong Dorje Chang and Methar. See below for translation.
English Translation
Legend:
[ ] = indicates information or a phrase that has been added for clarity or context
Before Serkong Dorjechang passed away, there was an evil spirit called Methar. In Methar’s past life [as Tengyeling’s changtso or manager/treasurer] he did Yamantaka retreat nine times.
In a place called Meldro there was a clan called Zi Bug Pel Rab Pa’i who requested Serkong Dorjechang three times to come there and subdue the evil spirit named Methar.
Serkong Tsenshab said he had heard that Methar was a staff member of Tengyeling and he was brutally murdered by the Tibetan government army. The student of Serkong Dorjechang [meaning Serkong Tsenshab] said that when Methar takes trance in ordinary people, he makes a ‘sir sir’ [inhaling sharply] sound. It shows he has the imprint of being stabbed many times. After he died, he was reborn as a wrathful spirit. In Gaden, while reading a pecha [scripture] at night, a junior monk would see a big mala come in front of him and it would rotate on its own, making a ‘thrig thrig’ sound [the sound of counting mala beads]. Some of the monks experienced that when they were reading their pecha, it was pulled from their hands and thrown away.
In Gaden there was a Geshe Lama-la or Geshe Dhamchö Tenpel, he [Rakra Rinpoche] does not remember very well. During his geshe tangor [geshe offering] ceremony, the damja thukpa [noodle soup] was ready and suddenly there was a ‘sir sir’ sound in the big pot. The damja thukpa instantly turned into water. When he was circumambulating the monastery with incense [after all the offerings were done], the geshe-la was crying at the time [because it was not a good sign for him].
After a period of many bad signs, they [the Zi Bug Pel Rab Pa’i family] invited some lamas from Gaden to subdue the spirit Methar by doing a fire puja. Among them was a lama called Geshe Agya Rinpoche, a mahasiddha, who was invited. On his way to Gaden he came to a bridge called Dechen Zampa. Before he crossed the bridge, Methar offered him the scripture of Je Tsongkhapa. After giving him the book, Methar requested Agya Rinpoche not to do the fire puja. Agya Rinpoche resumed his journey but somewhere between Dechen area and Gyami area, he pretended to fall from his horse. He said, “I cannot subdue Methar” and he returned to Lhasa.
After this, Kyabje Serkong Dorjechang was invited. Again, Serkong Dorjechang was about to cross Dechen Zampa when Methar appeared, taking on the form of a man. He also offered Je Tsongkhapa’s scripture to him and requested Serkong Dorjechang not to do the fire puja.
A member of Zi Bug Pel Rab Pa’i had invited Serkong Dorjechang three times. During the second request, Serkong Dorjechang travelled from Lhasa. During his journey from Lhasa to Zi Bug Pel Rab Pa’i’s house situated in Meldro, he visited Drom Thöd Dar Lung Nyen Gyi Phodrang. Then he continued on his journey and arrived at Zi Bug Pel Rab Pa’i’s house.
At the time, the mother of the family spontaneously took trance of Methar. Methar, taking trance of the mother, said, “My guru Bodhisattva has arrived.” Then Methar paid his respects. Serkong Dorjechang gave a teaching about cause and effect, and compassion to Methar. At the end of the teaching, Serkong Dorjechang said, “You should stop harming sentient beings and you must go to Drom Thöd. I have requested Gonpo Chag Drug [Six-Armed Mahakala] to give you the position of changtso. During your journey to that monastery you should maintain a practice of compassion.”
For food for his journey, Serkong Dorjechang told Methar, “Take this bowl of chang [barley beer] for your journey.” Then, instead of giving the bowl to Methar, he poured the chang on the floor but the chang did not touch the floor. Instead it floated in the air and left the room, and not a single drop fell to the floor. Many people saw this and were so surprised. After that, things for the Zi Bug Pel Rab Pa’i family became calm and peaceful for a long time.
After a long gap, again Methar made many problems for them. Serkong Dorjechang was in Lhoka at the time. During his journey to Zi Bug Pel Ra Wa’s house, he had to cross over a big mountain at night. All of a sudden, a big black cloud appeared and it started to rain. Because of the black cloud, the disciples and attendants could not see the way clearly. They could only see boulders. The group was scattered but Serkong Dorjechang continued on his way, as though someone was pulling the bridle of his horse and guiding him. When he arrived at Zi Bug Pel Ra Wa’s house, Serkong Dorjechang gave a teaching about the karma of harming people and about the benefit of helping people. Methar was so touched by the advice of Serkong Dorjechang, he took an oath that he would not harm anyone and his mind was turned to Dharma.
Serkong Dorjechang advised to make a tenkhang [Protector chapel] and to do a daily prayer over there. Serkong Dorjechang then composed a praise to Methar. A person named Lama-la asked Serkong Dorjechang, “During the journey, all of your disciples were scattered but you were the only one who came without facing obstacles. Why is that?” Serkong Dorjechang answered Lama-la by saying, “Damchen Garwa Nagpo guided me.” Serkong Tsenshab had heard about this incident.
Serkong Tsenshab heard that after Serkong Dorjechang had subdued Methar for the third time, on that third time, after Methar had taken an oath not to harm, Methar resigned from Mahakala [as a changtso]. Then he joined as Dorje Shugden’s changtso [minister] and entered into Dorje Shugden’s mandala.
By having a strong connection with Serkong Dorjechang, Methar also has a good connection with Serkong Tsenshab. Whenever the yangsi [reincarnation] of Serkong Dorjechang would do something mischievous, Methar used to come at night in Serkong Tsenshab’s dreams and tell Serkong Tsenshab what the young incarnation did. At that time, Serkong Dorjechang was living in Gaden and Lhoka, and Serkong Tsenshab was in Lhasa but despite the distance, Methar would still appear in his dreams. In Lhoka, the young yangsi lived with his assistants. The assistants often visited Lhasa and would update Serkong Tsenshab on the yangsi. But even before they could update, Serkong Tsenshab already knew what Serkong Dorjechang was up to. This [incident] was told by Drepung Gya Geshe.
The following was told by Drepung Gya Geshe. Serkong Tsenshab said that during Serkong Dorjechang’s stay in Lhasa in Serkong Tsenshab’s house, they were visited by a short nun with a red face who was known to be an oracle of Methar. She stayed there for a few days but Drepung Gya Geshe never saw her take trance. During Serkong Tsenshab’s youth, he had asked Methar, “How did you harm the other people?” At first Methar was not willing to answer; he only used to say, “Now I have stopped harming people.” Later, he said, “If you keep insisting for me to tell you what I did, maybe you already know? For example, many people used to die suddenly during gatherings. These are the things I have done. During parties, when people were distracted by entertainment, I would go and pull out the essence of their organs. After the gathering, when they return home, they would suddenly fall sick and pass away. This is what is meant by I harmed people.”
Serkong Tsenshab, when he was the debate partner of the Dalai Lama, stayed in Norbulingka. Even before going to his room, he used to feel like someone was calling him to the room, gesturing to him. And sometimes when Serkong Tsenshab had some miscommunication with other people, Methar used to be angry. Sometimes Serkong Tsenshab would find it difficult to locate his important items even if they were near to him [almost as though his vision was blocked]. Serkong Tsenshab told Rakra Rinpoche, “Sometimes Methar hides my personal belongings and I cannot find them and this makes me so embarrassed.”
Original Tibetan
Provided below is the original Tibetan source of the part in Serkong Dorje Chang’s biography that speaks about Methar.
You can download the complete biography of Serkong Dorje Chang as written by Rakra Rinpoche here.
Addendum
Even though the line of Demo Rinpoche incarnations was banned, this was overturned when the 13th Dalai Lama himself recognised and enthroned his nephew, Tenzin Gyatso, as the 10th incarnation of Demo Rinpoche. This incarnation returned his monks vows later in life, and took a consort, who used to be a nun. They gave birth to three sons, one of whom is Gelek Rinpoche who he now resides in the United States.
The 10th Demo Rinpoche, Tenzin Gyatso (left), and his consort (right).
- This description of the Methar is taken from Rene de Nebesky-Wojkowitz. Oracles and Demons of Tibet. 1996, Book Faith India. Page 144.
Sources:
- Melvyn C. Goldstein. A History of Modern Tibet, 1913-1951: The Demise of the Lamaist State. 1991, University of California Press.
- Rene de Nebesky-Wojkowitz. Demons and Oracles of Tibet. 1996, Book Faith India.
- Dundun Namgyal Tsarong. In the Service of His Country: The Biography of Dasang Damdul Tsarong Commander General of Tibet. 2000, Snow Lion.
Addendum
The Tibetan leadership’s connection with Nechung spans centuries. This study, by Christopher Paul Bell titled “Nechung – The Ritual History and Institutionalization of A Tibetan Buddhist Protector Deity“, chronicles the relationship between the Dalai Lamas and Nechung, and how Nechung’s practice become state-sanctioned during the time of the Fifth Dalai Lama.
It was the Fifth Dalai Lama’s government which endorsed, renovated and improved Nechung Monastery, as well as expanded Nechung’s ritual cycle, thus setting the course for the Tibetan government to come to heavily rely on his prophecies. To read the PDF document, click here.
For more interesting information:
- The Spirit Nyatrul: Magic, Mischief and Misery
- The Fourteenth Dalai Lama & Dorje Shugden
- The Fifth Dalai Lama & Dorje Shugden
- Never Seen Before Footage of Dorje Shugden Oracles
- Comparison between the Shamarpa and Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen
- Nechung – The Retiring Devil of Tibet
- Achi Chokyi Drolma – Chief Protectress of the Drikung Kagyu
- Dharma Protectors of Tibetan Buddhism
- They were not wrong
- Music Delighting the Ocean of Protectors – A Definitive Guide to Dorje Shugden by Trijang Rinpoche
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It is very good to know about the origin and the story of the Buddhist deity. The story of Methar shows us how the Tibetan leadership has been operating since the older time, how powerful highly attained lamas are and how an evil spirit can be subdued to do good to help others.
Power and money are what the Tibetan leadership is interested in. They will make false accusations on someone to take over someone’s wealth and power, like in the case of Demo Rinpoche and Methar. Methar turned into an angry spirit after he was killed. However, due to the power of Serkong Rinpoche and his deep Dharma imprint, Methar was subdued and agreed to give his service to Kache Marpo.
Politics and greed can really destroy people’s lives. Still eventually it was fortunate Methar was subdued and made into an oath bound protector by the Serkong DorjeChang.
Also it is great that there is a Dorje Shugden mandala for many of such beings to serve at.
What does Methar mean in English?
Is there a daily sadhana practice for Methar?
Beautiful billboard just came up in our hometown of Bentong where Kechara Forest Retreat (KFR) in Malaysia is located. All of us in Bentong are warm, simple and very friendly people. Our beautiful billboard depicts Dorje Shugden statue in KFR and Dorje Shugden is a hero (pahlawan) and a powerful being from Tibet. He is highly respected for giving great inspirations and blessings from his life story.~Tsem Rinpoche- See more beautiful pictures- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
这个美丽的布告板刚在我们的家乡——文冬安装好。文冬是克切拉禅修林的所在地。我们文冬人热情、朴实和友善。我们美丽的布告板描绘着禅修林里的多杰雄登像，而多杰雄登是位英雄，也是一位来自西藏强大的守护者。从他的生平我们得知他因赐人加持和灵感而备受尊崇。詹仁波切- 点击链接查看更多图片： https://bit.ly/2ThOvVa
When will the female Dharmapala Shangmo Dorje Putri join Methar on Dorje Shugden’s alter at Kechara?
Mantras are sacred verbalized words that invoke the protection and blessings of the deity to whom the mantra is ascribed. Mantras are also the manifestations of Buddhas in the form of ‘sounds’, hence the various mantras of Dorje Shugden contain the essence of the Protector.
Dorje Shugden’s main mantra 多杰雄登主要咒语
OM BENZA WIKI BITANA SOHA
Dorje Shugden’s mantra for peace 平和咒语
For gaining attainments through the energy of Peaceful Shugden, peace of environment and mind, harmony in one’s abode and dwelling area, and calming of disasters
OM BENZA WIKI BITANA SHANTI SIDDHI HUNG
Dorje Shugden’s mantra for health 福寿安康咒语
For long life, increasing life, healing of disease and protection from diseases
OM BENZA WIKI BITANA AYU SIDDHI HUNG
Dorje Shugden’s mantra for increase 增长咒语
For gaining great merits and increase of all necessary needs, both material and spiritual
OM BENZA WIKI BITANA PUNYE SIDDHI HUNG
Dorje Shugden’s mantra for control 控制咒语
Of worldly deities, negative people and nagas and for influencing friends towards the positive
OM BENZA WIKI BITANA WASHAM KURU HO
Dorje Shugden’s mantra to grant protection 庇护咒语
Visualize that you are in the Protector’s mandala, fully protected from outside interferences. Recite when in danger or for dangerous situations, for protection while travelling or when residing in dangerous/hostile places
OM BENZA WIKI BITANA RAKYA RAKYA HUNG
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videouploads/comment-1544345059.mp4
Dear friends,
Tibet has produced many powerful meditations, rituals and guidelines to help us gain spiritual protection, gain wisdom and higher states of consciousness. In general Tibet has produced many powerful methods for the growth of our spiritual evolution. Dorje Shugden is an angel, a saint, a powerful spiritual protector-warrior who originated 350 years ago when a highly awakened Tibetan Lama fulfilled his vows to become a special being to grant protection, wisdom, material needs, safety when travelling (normal and astral travel) and spiritual awakening. Both the Great 5th Dalai Lama and the current His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama composed short yet effective prayers to invoke upon the power and blessings of this special saint and protector. One can recite either one of the prayers that you feel suits you, anytime or even daily. When you feel a special need for help, you can recite either prayer anytime. When you are feeling down, afraid or just need a blessing, you can recite them. After reciting either invocation, it is good to chant the mantra of Dorje Shugden: Om Benza Wiki Bitana Soha.
You do not have to be a Buddhist or practitioner of any religion to invoke upon the blessings and protection of this special enlightened and awakened angel Dorje Shugden. He helps all without discrimination or bias as he is filled with compassion and love. Divinity has no boundaries, they help all who call upon them.
Enclosed are the prayers in English, Chinese and Tibetan.
May you be safe, protected and blessed.
Tsem Rinpoche
More on the Great 5th Dalai Lama and Dorje Shugden – https://bit.ly/2w7KHv6
More on H.H. the 14th Dalai Lama and Dorje Shugden – https://bit.ly/2QdaL4n
Chapel (Trode Khangsar) built by the Great 5th Dalai Lama dedicated to Dorje Shugden in Lhasa – https://bit.ly/2zBTd8M
—
亲爱的朋友们，
西藏产生了许多有助于我们得到精神庇佑、取得智慧和更高层次之觉悟的强大禅修法、仪式和教诲。总括来说，西藏产生了许多有助于我们在修行上取得提升的强有力方法。多杰雄登是一个天使，一位圣人和一名护法战士。他的崛起始于350年前，当一位高度觉悟的西藏高僧履行本身的承诺，化身为特别的护法，赐予我们守护、智慧、物质需要、出入平安（平日外游和神游时）和灵修上的觉醒。任何人都可以随时随地在任何时候念诵适合自己的祈愿文。当你需要特别的帮助时，你可以随时念诵任何一篇祈愿文。当你感到沮丧、恐惧或仅是需要加持时，你也可以持诵这些祈愿文。在念诵任何祈请文后，你应该接着念诵多杰雄登的心咒：嗡 班杂 维格 毗札那 娑哈 Om Benza Wiki Bitana Soha。
要祈请多杰雄登这位特殊、觉悟和觉醒的天使赐予加持和庇佑，你无需是佛教徒或任何宗教的修行者。他总是没有分别或偏见，充满慈悲和慈爱地帮助一切众生。神圣是没有界限的，圣者会帮助有求于他的任何人。
以下附上英文、中文和藏文的祈愿文。
愿你平安，常受庇护和加持。
尊贵的詹杜固仁波切
更多关于第五世达赖尊者和多杰雄登护法的内容 — https://bit.ly/2zsC3tG
更多关于第十四世达赖尊者和多杰雄登护法的内容 — https://bit.ly/2r4aaDN
第五世达赖尊者为多杰雄登护法在拉萨建造的护法殿（布旦康萨）— https://bit.ly/2zBTd8M
Divination (‘mo’) Text by Dorje Shugden
This is an important divination (‘mo’) text composed by Dorje Shugden himself. Dorje Shugden took trance of the Choyang Dulzin oracle lama, the senior oracle of Gaden Shartse Monastery, and instantly on the spot composed this text within two hours.
The divination text contains information on how to use dice to do divination for the future and is known to be highly accurate. When practitioners use this text, they will be in direct contact with Dorje Shugden to get answers to questions about the future. It is for those who have good samaya with Dorje Shugden and are free of the eight worldly dharmas to be of benefit to others in divining the future.
Tsem Rinpoche
DS-MO-choyang.pdf
Appliqué thangka of Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen, who is the previous incarnation of Dorje Shugden. The thangka dates possibly to the 19th Century, and it can be found in Erdene Zuu Monastery, considered by many to be the most important and oldest monastery in Mongolia. In the lower portion of the thangka are Yellow Dzambala, Six-Armed Mahakala and Kalarupa. Learn more about Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen’s life here: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/who-is-tulku-drakpa-gyeltsen.html
A Daily Request for Wealth, Peace and Protection
Composed by H.E. Tsem Rinpoche
In the heavens there are myriad manifestations of the divine. All those manifestations specifically show us different aspects of divinity in order to be of benefit to all living beings. All the rupakaya forms of the divine have compassion, skillful means and wisdom. We invoke upon them whether we are happy, sad, down, lost, fulfilled, confused, empty, and during the whole range of emotions we constantly experience due to an untrained mind.
Understanding our nature, Great Wisdom Being Dorje Shugden, therefore all the more so, please hold us close to your bosom as an only child to a parent.
Though the manifestations of the divine need no offerings and gifts from us, we offer you supreme Manjushri Dorje Shugden a libation of tea, incense and mantras, in order to ask you to bless us, to be a part of our lives, to abide in our dwellings and to give us signs, omens and portents of both good and bad. When the negative arises, quell them immediately. Please increase the positive for my weary and worn mind as I lay my hopes in you.
When difficulties, problems and confusion arise, we ask you, who is but the culmination of all that is powerful, holy and omniscient to bless myself, family, loved ones, environment and even my pets. May I see wisdom, find hope, and be at peace.
I request you, O Divine Bhagavān Dorje Shugden, who wears a round dome hat and the three robes of a saffroned bhikshu, who wields a sword of liberty, justice and wisdom and clutches a wish-fulfilling jewel, who rides on a supreme lion of subjugation of all that is negative, to fulfill my wishes. I understand my wishes may not be the best, so I surrender to your wisdom for the outcome though it may not be what I have in mind. Please bless myself and everyone that we may enter into the supreme city of liberation.
Great Bhagavān Dorje Shugden, I request you sincerely from my heart to be a part of my life, bless my home, and grant me wisdom, solace and comfort, that I might be of service to others without agenda, and that I may focus out onto others and not be fixated on myself, creating more problems for all that I hold dear.
Bless me to become kinder, wiser, more compassionate, tolerant and very forgiving to all those who hurt and love me. In order to become close to you, Dorje Shugden, we must surrender the banal. We must abandon fixed views, projections and rigidity. Lastly, in my final moment when I leave this plane of existence, only the positive actions I have done will matter as everything and everyone will be left behind. Let me realise this and act upon this now! At this crucial moment, please may I have a vision of yourself, the powerful and merciful Dorje Shugden, to take me to where I may course in the sky to continue my journey of spiritual waxing.
I offer you saffron-coloured tea and my faith to fulfill my prayers and gain siddhis. By reciting your mantra, may healing, peace, love, long life, protection and perfect view of sunyata arise.
Mantra of fulfillment, peace and wisdom:
OM BENZA WIKI BITANA SOHA
(It is good to recite this mantra daily as much as you like or your timing allows.)
I dedicate this supreme heartfelt prayer to the all-knowing Celestial and Supreme Protector Dorje Shugden, that I may quickly become a being of light, compassion, love and enlightenment.
Please play the audio included here to follow along with the prayer.
OR
Follow on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-OSudd323A
For more information, go to: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=61394
https://video.tsemtulku.com/chat-videos/chat-1538813324.mp4
Be blessed with these rare videos featuring explanation and advice about Dorje Shugden practice by His Holiness Kyabje Zong Rinpoche in his own voice. The teaching was requested by Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen, one of the earliest masters who taught Tibetan Buddhism in the West.
Video 1: H.H. Kyabje Zong Rinpoche Explains Dorje Shugden Initiation and Benefits (With English Subtitles)
Kyabje Zong Rinpoche was an erudite scholar, ritual master and practitioner of the highest degree from Tibet. At the request of Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen, one of the pioneers who taught Tibetan Buddhism in America, Kyabje Zong Rinpoche gives clear explanation and advice about the life-entrustment initiation of Dorje Shugden and how to go about the practice and get the maximum benefits in this video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzFMvlxAqtc&feature=youtu.be
Video 2: H.H. Kyabje Zong Rinpoche speaks on the History and Lineage of Dorje Shugden (With English Subtitles)
In this video, an erudite scholar, ritual master and practitioner of the highest degree from Tibet, Kyabje Zong Rinpoche talks about the incarnation lineage of Dorje Shugden and how the practice arose, with examples of Dorje Shugden’s previous lives that reveal his powerful spiritual attainments and contributions. This very rare teaching was given at the request of Kyabje Zong Rinpoche’s student, Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen, one of the pioneers who taught Buddhism in the West to many disciples since the 1970s.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sIzKSJgK618&feature=youtu.be
For more information: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/kyabje-zong-rinpoches-advice-on-dorje-shugdens-practice.html
His Holiness the 10th Panchen Lama
Tibetans commonly refer to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and His Holiness 10th Panchen Lama as the “sun and moon” of Tibetan Buddhism. They are the center of Tibetan Buddhist civilization, which draws to its sphere of influence millions of non-Tibetan practitioners. The Panchen Lama’s incarnation line began with the 16th abbot of Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen (1570 – 1662). He was bestowed the title of Panchen Lama by His Holiness the 5th Dalai Lama after being declared as an emanation of Amitabha.
After being given the title, his three previous incarnations were posthumously also bestowed the title, making Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen the 4th Panchen Lama. He became a teacher to many Tibetans, Bhutanese and Mongolian religious figures, including His Holiness the 4th and 5th Dalai Lamas, and the 1st Jetsun Dampa of Mongolia. A prolific author, Chokyi Gyeltsen is credited with over a hundred compositions, including a number of commentaries and ritual texts that remain central in the Gelukpa tradition today. Along with his role as a teacher of the Dharma, the Panchen Lamas are usually responsible for the recognition of the rebirths of the Dalai Lamas, and vice versa.
The 10th Panchen Lama, Lobsang Trinley Lhundrub Chokyi Gyeltsen (19 February 1938 – 28 January 1989) continued both the spiritual and political roles of his predecessors. His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, his contemporary, was even heard to say and echo the Panchen Lama’s own words that the Dalai Lama would safeguard Tibet from the outside while the Panchen Lama would safeguard Tibet from the inside, as he never left Tibet after the political troubles of 1959. He was truly loved by the Tibetans, all the way until his passing. When he taught, thousands of people would attend, not only from his own Gelug lineage, but masters and practitioners from all traditions of Tibetan Buddhism.
At his sprawling monastery of Tashi Lhunpo, he has a special chapel specifically dedicated to Dorje Shugden, where prayers and rituals are performed on a daily basis. In his great omniscience the Panchen Lama held Dorje Shugden as the principal Dharma protector of the monastery. He also personally propitiated Dorje Shugden among other Dharma protectors, and even wrote extensive prayers and rituals to Dorje Shugden. These rituals and prayers are contained within his ‘sung bum’ or collected works, which are provided here. As such a great lama, with an erudite and clear understanding of the Buddhist scriptures, a teacher to millions in both Tibet and China, from an established incarnation line and an emanation of the Buddha Amitabha, he could not be mistaken about his practice of Dorje Shugden.
His Holiness 10th Panchen Lama is known for his composition of commentaries and practice texts that are still in use by contemporary Buddhist practitioners both in Tibet and across the world. One of these is a powerful ritual composition propitiating the compassionate Dorje Shugden.
Upon the request by Acharya Lobsang Jangchub to compose a shorter version of the prayer (sadhana) for the exhortation of activities of Dorje Shugden, Panchen Lama immediately composed an abbreviate form of Dorje Shugden’s Kangsol. This text is entitled “Manjunatha’s (Tsongkapa) Lineage protector Dorje Shugden and five forms wrathful propitiations and confessional prayers and fulfilment of activities rites” or “Melodious sound of Accomplishment of the Four Activities” for short. Once the prayers were completed, he had signs and strong feelings that Dorje Shugden has been working hard to protect the Buddhadharma in general and the lineage of Lama Tsongkhapa specifically.
Mirroring the abilities of one of his earlier incarnations, Khedrub Je, a disciple of Lama Tsongkhapa and master of both sutra and tantra, the Panchen Lama used his compositional skill and poetic prowess to create a masterful sadhana. Worthy of note is a praise in which the first letter of each verse is a Tibetan vowel. Such compositions are rarely seen, and have historically only been used when propitiating senior Dharma protectors such as Palden Lhamo and Kalarupa.
The Panchen Lama also stated that while composing the Dorje Shugden sadhana (prayers) he was filled with a sense of happiness and bliss. He ends the composition with not only his official title but his ordination name, Tenzin Trinley Jigme Choje Wangchuk, endorsing the validity of his work. He composed the sadhana in his own Tashi Lhunpo monastery while in the Hall of Clear Light and Bliss.
See the Panchen Lama’s writings and download: https://bit.ly/2KIfeXb
For the first time available, Dorje Shugden and his entourage of 32 asssistants of his mandala.
Dorje Shugden is a powerful protector deity who is also an emanation of Manjushri, a wisdom bestowing Buddha. Therefore, he has great ability to help us to progress further on the spiritual path. He does this by helping us to overcome obstacles and problems for the modern individual.
Due to his enlightened nature, Dorje Shugden is able to manifest 32 deities and within the same abode resides Setrap and Kache Marpo:-
1. 5 Dorje Shugden families or emanations. They consists of the following:-
– Dulzin Dorje Shugden, which performs activities to eliminate inner and outer obstacles.
– Shize, which performs activities to pacify all illnesses and disease.
– Gyenze, which performs activities to increase all desirable material and spiritual wealth.
– Wangze, which performs activities to control difficult people and circumstances.
– Trakze, which performs activities to wrathfully eliminate all insurmountable obstacles and life-threatening situations.
2. 9 Mothers. They represent protection of the five senses and developing control of the four elements. These are all attributes that signify their ability to assist tantric practitioners with their higher meditations.
3. 8 Guiding Monks. They represent the Eight Great Bodhisattvas (Avalokitesvara, Manjushri, Vajrapani, Samantabhadra, Maitreya, Kshitigarbha, Akashagarbha, Sarva-nivarana-viskambini) and they bring about the growth of the Dharma, through the Sangha, Dharma practitioners and Dharma establishments.
4. 10 Youthful & Wrathful Attendants. They represent the ten wrathful attendants to avert inner and outer obstacles. They are beings who are from Mongolia, China, Kashmir, India, Bengali, etc.
5. Setrap. He is a senior Dharma Protector from India and an emanation of Amitabha Buddha. He had enthroned Dorje Shugden as an authentic Dharma Protector. Therefore, he also resides within the same mandala of Dorje Shugden.
6. Kache Marpo. He is not an emanation of Dorje Shugden but he is still an enlightened Dharma Protector in his own right. He was originally known as Tsiu Marpo of Samye Monastery. However, he has placed himself under the service of Dorje Shugden as his chief minister, performing many activities in order to protect and benefit practitioners. Therefore, he stands guard at the main entrance of Dorje Shugden’s mandala. He often takes trance of qualified mediums to speak.
7. Namkar Barzin. He is the reincarnation of an old Mongolian monk and when he passed away in Phari area of Tibet, his spirit was placed as a powerful assistant of Dorje Shugden. He guards and protects buildings and great institutions especially those that benefit others. He rides on a mythical Gyaling animal that resembles a goat but with scales.
These sacred images are available on *Vajrasecrets. They are made of high quality alloy and are one of a kind. They are based on the lineage of His Holiness Panchen Rinpoche’s monastery, Tashilhunpo in Shigatse, Tibet. In fact, the iconography of these statues are based on detailed photographs taken by H. E. Tsem Rinpoche during a trip to Tashilhunpo’s protector chapel. These are based exactly as the 10th Panchen Lama’s personal collection.
Dorje Shugden mandala: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=131570
Dorje Shugden’s benefit and practice: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=62422
Dorje Shugden’s origins: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=106424
Dorje Shugden chapel in His Holiness Panchen Rinpoche’s Tashilhunpo Monastery in Tibet: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=68698
*Stand not included
Regarding Goddess Yudroma and her oracle in Dharamsala
1. I have met this oracle several times in Dharamsala. She gives very accurate predictions. I have experienced this myself.
2. She is a gentle Yudroma goddess riding on a horse and she is white in color and takes trance quite easily in this official oracle lady that lived in Dharamsala. When you go meet her, you have to bring milk and yogurt. She takes 7 sips of the milk when she first arrives and recites a host of prayers before we can consult her. We have the honor to offer her the milk to gather affinity with her.
3. She, the oracle lady became well known as over several decades ago, a western hiker was lost in the Dharamsala hills. The goddess was consulted via this oracle and Yudroma then correctly told them where to find the hiker and the hiker was found and life saved. After that she became very well known in Dharamsala.
4. Yudroma the goddess is one of the main protectors of the Gelug Gyuto Tantric Monastery in Dharamsala. They have relied on her for hundreds of years since Tibet. The monks often ask the lady oracle to take trance and through her consult Yudroma.
5. She would be pleased in this video because people are helping Gyuto Monastery, her dominion. Perhaps she is the one that brought the Australian sponsors to help in the first place in her own mystical methods.
6. She is also the protector of Gungru khangtsen in Drepung Gomang monastery in South India.
7. Sadly this lady oracle has passed away and I guess people are perhaps waiting for a new oracle to be chosen by the Yudroma goddess. Haven’t heard anything yet. How lovely this lady served the goddess, monks and monasteries and public through taking trance her whole life. So virtuous of a job. Her body was used to benefit thousands in her lifetime and serve the sangha.
Exciting.
I like oracles because humans can meet the gods directly.
Tsem Rinpoche
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videouploads/comment-1532845550.mp4
(I have attached a video of her taking trance as well as This is Goddess Yudroma thangka photo. This is a picture of the actual thangka that belonged to the oracle in the video. I got her permission to take this picture when I visited her. The Yudroma thangka was hanging in the room where the oracle takes trance in her house. Thanks. TR)
Sakya tradition’s thangka of Dorje Shugden sitting on a throne within his palace with his four emanations and high Sakya Lamas nearby. Tsem Rinpoche
Amazing post!!!!!
Dear friends, For months we have been working on this BEAUTIFUL and meaningful mural in Kathmandu, Nepal. Please click here to enjoy the many stunning pictures of this mural: https://bit.ly/2LgOj8J
Tsem Rinpoche
Revisit this post again and learned more of it through reading all the comments by readers. How Methar of Tengyeling Monastery arose as a dharma protector and be part of Dorje Shugden’s mandala. Interesting tragic story ……..a good read and understand much better now. Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.
Dear Rinpoche,
Sorry if this question is silly but I couldn’t help thinking about propitiating just to Dharmapala Methar. Although through having strong faith in Rinpoche, I believe Dharmapala Methar will help us in our spiritual path but I’m little concerned on what Dharmapala Methar could do. In Rakra Rinpoche’s bio on Serkong Dorje Chang, the last paragraph mentioned that –
“sometimes when Serkong Tsenshab had some miscommunication with other people, Methar used to be angry. Sometimes Serkong Tsenshab would find it difficult to locate his important items even if they were near to him [almost as though his vision was blocked]. Serkong Tsenshab told Rakra Rinpoche, “Sometimes Methar hides my personal belongings and I cannot find them and this makes me so embarrassed.”
I wonder if one strongly propitiating Dharmapala Methar (lay people like us ), one will be ‘ disturbed ‘ more as we tend to have worldly motivation in most of our daily activities?
Thank you Rinpoche
Great message every Tibetan especially must read!
The Tengyeling Oracle was tortured and executed by the 13th Dalai Lama’s Government in 1912.
What was going through the mind of the Oracle as he was executed and entering the Bardo?
He must have suffered greatly.
It was because of him that Tengyeling Monastery was destroyed in 1912.
It was because of him that a great many monks and lay followers of Demo Tulku died in the war of Tengyleing Monastery from 1910 through 1912.
It was because of him that a great many monks and lay followers were wounded during that war.
It was because of him that many monks and lay followers including the Dharmapala Methar were captured and tortured to death at the end of the war in 1912.
It was because of him that many monks and lay followers were captured, tortured and later released from prison by the 13 Dalai Lama’s Government.
It was because of him that the remaining monks and lay followers were expelled from Tengyeling and forced to enter into other Gelug Monasteries.
The Tengyeling Oracle was present in the same prison and watched as Methar and the Oracle’s fellow monks and lay followers were tortured.
The Tengyeling Oracle knew that all this happened because of him and him alone.
The monks and lay followers fought, died, were wounded and tortured all because they believed in him as the Tengyeling Oracle.
This all happened because the Tengyeling Oracle took trance of Tsiu (Kache) Marpo who told them in trance to stand and fight with the Chinese Garrison in Lhasa against the 13th Dalai Lama and his government.
To avenge the murder of their beloved guru Demo Tulku.
Their “Oracular” devotion was so great because of their “Guru” Devotion to Demo Tulku.
It was Demo Tulku who personally chose and trained the Tengyeling Oracle.
I wonder if the Tengyeling Oracle entered his Bardo with great sorrow and sadness for what he and he alone caused at Tengyeling Monastery?
Why doesn’t the Tengyeling Oracle take trance and let us know the answer?
His answer is “YES”!
Just wondering. If it is important to resurrect Tengyeling’s lineage, surely Kache Marpo would have recognized incarnation of Demo Tulku and said so by now? I’m just speculating that since none of the high lamas or the protectors through oracles said anything, perhaps it is no longer relevant, or too much politics?
He has.
He hasn’t.
The iconography of the wrathful Methar and reading the account of Nechung’s role in the whole episode (“Nechung took spontaneous trance and warned the 13th Dalai Lama not to wear the silk soles”) makes me think that as with Dorje Shugden, it was Nechung that has arranged the conditions for Methar to arise and to be part of Dorje Shugden’s entourage.
The meditation tool or symbol of overcoming “ignorance” is traditionally the flayed elephant skin or in the case of HH Dalai Lama, he has carpet picturing a flayed human skin which HH uses to meditate. In this case, Methar is already flayed.
The spear signifies piercing false views. The 16 skull mala represents the 16 types of sunyata.
Just my 2 cents.
One last item about the Tengyeling Oracle.
During the two year war at Tengyeling the monks there gave their Oracle a special name.
The monks called him “Gesar Kuten” the “Warrior Oracle”.
One last item about the Gadong Oracle.
The monks called him “Warrior Kuten” the “General Oracle”.
Hello Tsem Tulku
You missed out one part of the story of Tengyeling Monastery and that was how the Tengyeling Oracle died.
As you have stated it was the then Tengyeling Oracle who told the monks in 1910 to stand up with the Chinese troops and fight against the Government of Tibet.
He went into trance and Kache (Tsiu) Marpo told the monks to fight and avenge the cruel murder of their guru, His Holiness Demo Tulku.
The monks stood shoulder to shoulder with their Chinese cousins against the cruel Tibetan Government.
The Tengyeling Oracle lay down his monks vows so he could actually fight and kill these evil troops.
His devotion to His Holiness Demo Tulku was go great. It was H.H. Demo Tulku who chose and personally trained him to become the Oracle of Tengyeling Monastery.
The Oracle also fought because of his devotion and faith to “Kache (Tsiu) Marpo”. It was Kache (Tsiu) Marpo who was Demo Tulku’s personal dharmapala.
He was also the Dharmapala of Tengyeling Monastery.
During the final battle the Tengyeling Oracle was wounded and captured.
He was at the top of the list of wanted men that the Government sought.
It was he and he alone as the Oracle of Tengyeling who convinced the monks and lay people to stand and fight against the Dalai Lama’s Government.
These evil troops had one special punishment for the Oracle.
This special punishment was ordered by the Tibetan Government.
They asked him if he had any last WORDS to say before they “CUT OFF HIS TONGUE”.
The Oracle last words were to praised both Demo Tulku and Kache Marpo and to curse all of them and promised to return and seek his revenge.
They then cut out his tongue and tortured him and finally “SKINNED HIM ALIVE” as they had done to both Methar and years earlier to Nyari Tulku.
Like Methar the Tengyeling Oracle died because of his total devotion to Demo Tulku and Kache (Tsiu) Marpo.
Unlike Methar he did not become a Demon but retook birth in the “Human Realm” to seek his revenge in the future.
So Rinpoche you now have the complete story of the Tengyeling Oracle.
A story as great as the murdered Oracle’s dharma brother “Methar”.
Hello Rinpoche
Just thought I would let you know that I am the Tengyeling Oracle.
No more hiding the truth.
Have a good one, Rinpoche
Hello Rinpoche
Just thought I would let you know that I am the Gadong Oracle.
No more hiding the truth.
Robbie
Hello Rinpoche
I was wonder if H.H. Trijang Rinpoche and Geshe Kelsang Geshe of the New Kadampa have embraced Methar as a member of Dorje Shugden’s retinue.
It would be wonderful news to all of us if they have and Methar is now fully accepted by all followers of Dorje Shugden.
Could you give us an update.
Also will you be having yourself or one of your Pastor’s do a You Tube video on Methar and his formal practice?
It gave me great joy to read this comment by ‘Suzy in Hawaii’ that she left on Tsem Rinpoche’s YouTube channel-(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vl-4lIwxph4&t=11s) After 2 decades of persecution and maltreatment by those who seek to destroy a holy practice, it is a pleasure to see the truth prevailing and more and more people like Suzy realizing the goodness and benefit of Dorje Shugden.
Tibetan Government’s power game is not just started recently, it has already started since 200 years ago, or even longer, and until now, it is still the same as what they did to the Dorje Shugden Practitioners. Their motivation is all about getting money and absolute power, it is never based on the benefit of Tibetan citizen.
Although Methar has took rebirth as a spirit, but due to his strong connection and the merits he collected in his previous life, he is able to meet Serkong Dorje Chang who transform him to a protector and put him under the care of Dorje Shugden. Every beings in this six realms are able to gain enlightenment. This has also showed that Dharma is the essential path in our life, that is the only exit to our endless suffering, without Dharma, there is no liberation.
The story of Methar once again sadden me after the story about Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen. A country run by holy being, yet story of people and high lamas being wronged and accused by the Tibetan government then murdered. It shows the same way of abuse by the Tibetan leadership today, Central Tibetan Administration (CTA).
Due to Methar’s strong imprint of dharma and the reason of his death was to protect his Guru Demo Rinpoche, he has the karma to be subdued by Serkong Dorje Chang and put him under the Dorje Shugden Mandala.
Trauma to see more and more similar stories like this. Very sad and until today it still happen in Tibetan community.
Reading through how protector Methar origin arose,it make feel sad how Tibetan government due to jealousy and greed ,blindly use their politic power brutally murdered him. This is another clear example same reason how Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen get murdered. Both cases has created unforgettable story, and they arose as protector to protect Buddha dharma.
Although Methar arose as the vengeful, angry spirit and harmful to people,yet his was able subdue by Serkong Dorje Chang’s make him swear becoming assistant of Karche Marpo. It shown clearly his nature of mind and his sincere motivation at the passed had strong guru devotion toward his guru to promote dharma to grow.
For many century now, tibetan leadership has create unfair crimes. Is the time, they had to stop all to negative action toward people who are sincere just want to practice buddha dharma.
Methar, a powerful protector! We can see because of his story, that eventhough he was the changtso or manager/treasurer of the Tengyeling monastery, he was reborn as a spirit because of his anger.
Anger will always harm us, no matter if we think we are right or not! Never dwell in anger. But I rejoice for Methar being in the Mandala of Dorje Shugden and helping Kache Marpo.
Sad again that we have to witness again the greed and jealousy of the Tibetan Government.
Thank you Methar for helping countless beings now.
从梅塔被逼害至死之事至到多杰雄登修行者被逼害，显示了西藏领导人滥用了权力的模式在不同的世纪里。梅塔对上师的过人的忠诚和依止心是我们佛教徒的模范。
梅塔死后化身为鬼而难以被降伏直至到色贡多杰羌到来，色贡多杰羌只给梅塔佛法开示即把他给降伏了成为护法，这显示了梅塔有足够的功德，智慧及对上师的过人的忠诚和依止心。
这个故事加强人们看待上师依止心和佛法力量
Thank you for your most sincere interest in Methar.
I regret that due to “Tantric Commitments and Vows” I have been sworn to I can not reveal anymore in public. The connection I have to “Methar” has spanned life times. The practice of “Methar” though in one sense is public it is meant for the select few and not for the many. Methar is one of many dharmapalas in the retinue of Dorje Shugden but his “Samaya” is very special.
Hi Eric,
I am very much drawn to your comment as above. Isn’t Methar can be propitiated by any layman as I’ve read the article above, Rinpoche didn’t mention any restriction. By the way, what kind of ‘special samaya’ that you’ve mentioned above?
The statement of above is from your good self or Rinpoche?
Thank you
Due to greed and jealously the Kashag will do anything to protect their selfish interest. Many people definitely had a bad time under Tibetan government which instead of protecting their people they will do anything including separating their own people just like what happen to Dorje Shugden practitioners.
In this articles mentioned that Nechung oracle take trance to said that by wearing the shoe it will bring harm to the 13th Dalai Lama. How could this be possible if the Dalai Lama is the emanation of Cherezig? How can a Buddha has the karma to be harm? Look at the 14th Dalai Lama can even escape unharmed from the Chinese during their invasion in 1959 .
It’s sad that when the government use political influences to jeopardized spiritual practice.
What I like about this article is that how Methar who took rebirth as a spirit able to make a turn as dharma protector due to his strong imprint in dharma that able to make him realise and change his motivation.
Imprint is very important for one in their crucial time to return from negative influences. Methar background gave a very important teaching of how we should consistently learn and do dharma not only to benefit in this life time but also future.
Politics, power, wealth, fame, control, sinister plots, jealousy, torture, murder, wiping out name of the deceased… these are elements of the making of a movie. Like the murder of Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen,
the Tibetan government, past and present, are always mentioned in such accounts. I wonder how many more stories there are that have not been told that are linked to the CTA.
The Tibetan government is amazing! Always taking something that is not theirs. And always at the expense of others. How can people be so cruel?? It’s shocking to even read and think of the pain that Methar went through. Can one even imagine if one were to go through that??
But, on the positive side, Methar’s strong Guru devotion and Dharma practice during his life, helped him. Although mischievous when he was a spirit but due to his practice, he had the merits to understand and change. And Serkong Dorjechang is full of wisdom and compassion to have Methar change and put him under Dorje Shugden’s mandala. How fortunate!
What stands out for me in reading the story of Methar is that it is authentic as his story appears in the biography of a High Lama, Serkong Dorje Chang by two authors, Zemey Rinpoche and Rakra Rinpoche.
Although Methar was not a monk, he was a great practitioner as he was able to withstand the horrible way by which he was tortured and died from the torturing of having had his skin removed and his body opened and his bowels dislodged, by remembering his Guru, Demo Rinpoche, his Protector, Kache Marpo and his love for the monastery, Tengyeling.
His practice of the Dharma was once again proven to be of good standing and sound when, Serkong Dorje Chang did not subdue him in a wrathful manner but rather by teaching him the compassion of Dharma and enthroning him as a Dharma Protector.
Another impact the story of Methar has for me is how the Tibetan government would always do their best to eliminate powerful Lamas of whom they feel threatened and using the Dalai Lama as the pawn. This seem the same in the case of Tulku Dragpa Gyelsten.
It is also very interesting and wonderful to note that Methar is now under Kache Marpo in the mandala of Dorje Shugden.
Well, this is another interesting yet sad story of victim of the Tibetan government’s power crazy. Poor Methar been tortured, skinned alive, brutally disembowelled and stabbed. Due to Methar had strong Dharmic imprints and devotion from his previous life,he willingly took an oath as a Dharma protector subdued by Serkong Dorje Chang.Hence Serkong Dorje Chang subdued him by teaching him the Dharma and taught him about the negative karmic effects of harming others and about developing compassion.
This article tell us of a disciple responsibilities and strong implementation on guru devotion.Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this remarkable story of Methar.
Hello Rinpoche
Please go onto ebay and type in Tsiu Marpo . There you will find the “Kache” Marpo thangka I have previous described. In the top left hand corner is “Demo Tulku”, the top right corner “Nyari Tulku”, the bottom right corner “Methar” and the bottom left corner a “Dakini”
In the centre is “Kache Marpo.
Dear friends around the world, Here are more pictures of our one of a kind Methar statue in Kechara Forest Retreat-Bentong, Malaysia. As he belongs on the entourage of our powerful protector a beautiful statue was commissioned by myself for our main Dorje Shugden shrine here.
Will there by a video of your ceremony placing Methar on Dorje Shugden’s alter.
Dear friends around the world, Here are more pictures of our one of a kind Methar statue in Kechara Forest Retreat-Bentong, Malaysia
Did you every wonder why Methar suddenly disappeared some 60 or more years ago?
He was totally forgotten by the followers of Dorje Shugden.
I asked the New Kadampas years ago about him and they told me they knew nothing about him.
I asked the same question on your “Ask a Pastor” and they knew nothing about Methar.
What were the causes, the “Karma” for Methar to disappear just like that?
Have you ever wonder why this happened?
Why we all forgot the Methar existed.
Have you ever wondered what were the causes, the “Karma” that brought you and I together to “Raise Methar from the Dead”?
For me to bring Methar to you and for you to “officially” reintroduce Methar to the world?
Why did Methar “disappear” and why were we “Chosen” and by whom were we “Chosen”?
I ponder this question often.
Thank you Rinpoche for creating this wonderful wooden statue of the “Wrathful” form of Methar and placing it on the main altar of Dorje Shugden.
When the Tengyeling Oracle saw your photo he had tears in his eyes.
Because of you the world now knows and pratice’s Methar who is the “First Minister” to Kache Marpo.
Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Why did Methar not first present himself to a “Officially Recognized Oracle”?
Methar himself or via Kache Marpo0 could have taken “Trance” of either the Panglung Kuten or the Gameng Kuten. Both of these Kutens are known throughout the world by all follower of the “Yellow Hat” sect.. Yet Methar did no chose either of these two men. The Panglung Kuten through the generous heart and soul of Tsem Tulku now lives with Tsem Tulku. The Panglung Kuten is held in such high honor and respect and yet Methar chose not to enter him first. WHY?
Had Methar chosen any one of these to Oracles and taken trance and told the whole story what would have happen? Well, Tengyeling Monastery, His Holiness Demo Tulku, Nyari Tulku and Methar would have been immediately be known to the world. WHY?
Yet Methar or maybe Kache Marpo chose not to enter either of these two Kutens. He choice an “unknown”,”unrecognized” and a self appointed Kuten(?). A senior citizen and non Tibetan. Methar would chose a man that would fight for years to get him recognized and not immediately by a “Recognized” Kuten? A Dorje Shugden follower who lives in the same place were the only Geluppa “Tengyeling” Temple exists in the world.A man with a birth mark of a “Red Dot” at the exact spot of the “Crown Chakra” or as he calls it “The Gate of Heaven”.
Why did Methar pick His Eminence Tsem Tulku to tell the story of Tengyeling Monastery. As he stated in this article a “story of political intrigue, unholy plots against innoceent men and Murder”. Why did he pick H.E. Tsem Tulku to “reintroduce” this great dharmapala to the world. WHY
Hopefully we will find all this out in 2017.
Happy New Year Rinpoche and to the Panglung Kuten!!!!
The Tengyeling Oracle can be reached at “dharmafrauds@gmail.com”.
Merry Christmas
Hello Rinpoche
In this article you wrote about an “Oracle(s)” taking trance of the wrathful form of “Methar”. You stated “It is said that when this wrathful form takes trance of an oracle……Only after this does he speak.”
Could you tell us which “Oracle(s)” you were writing about.
I know that it could not be the “Panglung Oracle” since a member of your staff told me that it wasn’t him.
I commented on your newest article about how the “Panglung Oracle” help cure you while he was in trance. Your article stated that the “Panglung Oracle” takes trance from seven different spirits. I asked if the “Panglung Oracle” took trance of “Methar”. Ms Anne Ong replied back ( I assumed she was writing on your behalf)
“Hello Harold, No, the Panglung Kuten Oracle doesn’t take trance of Methar”.
So Rinpoche, it was not the Panglung Kuten Oracle you were writing about when you wrote the above mentioned statement.
Could you tell all of us which “Oracle(s)” you were in fact writing about that takes trance of the “Wrathful” form of “Methar”? When and were it happened and what “Methar” has stated through this “Oracle(s)”. Does he also take trance of the “Peaceful” form of “Methar”?
Thank you for providing us with the “Mantra” for the “Peaceful” form of “Methar” and also your “Praise”. Could you tell us what the “Wrathful Mantra” is for “Methar” since there is both a “Peaceful” and “Wrathful” form of “Methar”. Will you soon be providing us with the complete “Practice” for the dharmapala “Methar”?
I am so glad that the “Panglung Kuten Oracle” has be so helpful with your illness.
I pray for your continued good health and long life.
Very interesting history behind these ….the Methar of Tengyeling Monastery.Its really interesting to know how he was arose as a Dharma protector and came to be a part of Dorje Shugden’s mandala. Due to Methar’s guru devotion, his strong faith with protector It was through the compassion and teaching of Serkong Dorje Chang that Methar took the oath and be bound as a protector.
Thank Rinpoche for sharing this post.May all be blessed and able to receive protections from Dharma Protector .
Interesting to find that another protector arose due to the evil deeds of the Tibetan Kashag in particularly one named Klu Khang ba Tshe dbang ra brtan (鲁康娃·泽旺饶登) who was the nyer-tsang-nga (food rationing officer) who decided to starve the Chinese troops to death, but it was due to the compassion and “political position” of the 10th Demo Rinpoche who decided to release the food stock in his monastery to aid the Chinese troops.
It can be found on this Chinese source : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JsD1RRR64lc at the end 1:03:08.
During the time of the 9th Demo Rinpoche, there was the “evil silk soles” incident following by the act of going against the will of the Kashag during the 10th.
Undeniable those who hold power to rule will seek allied with surrounding foreign power to fence off their foe. History shows that Tibet and been intruded by country like India, Nepal which through the power of Qing Government repel its invader. The British finally grab-hold of Tibet through the pretext of trade and ruled Tibet for 40 years and to open a trade route to sell their “Black Gold” to the much resources richer China. All of this was much muted by the current Tibetan government in-exile.
We can noticed that lots of these incidents was political motivated by nature that was just an all-out power struggle between the then influential Tibetan noblemen.
Two things that standout from this blog :- The energy of the highly accomplished cannot be quenched by any means. Even the Tibetan Government barred the reincarnation of the 9th Demo Rinpoche, he came back as 10th anyway as an accomplished master and an avid photographer!
The tragic ending of Methar the treasurer due to his Dharma practice will always had a positive outcome later, now as a Dharma Protector to continue his accumulations.
Politics is always a dirty game, cos people will do anything for power and money. Methar is the victim in this game. He was brutally murdered cos of the treasure he is guarding. As a result of the anger, he has arose as a spirit that caused harm to Zi Bug Pel Rab Pa’i. But due to Methar’s guru devotion, his strong faith with protector and dharmic imprint from his previous life, he is able to be subdue with just one dharma teaching by Serkong Dorje Chang.
What I learned from this story are, we need to have strong devotion with our guru, cos our guru is very compassion and is the one that will guide us in our dharma path and lead us to enlightenment. Dharma is the only tool that can transform our mind.
Dear Rinpoche,
Thank you Rinpoche for sharing the history of how Methar arose as Dharma Protector. To uphold pure virtues of Dharma, guru devotion and loyalty such as Methar, requires 100% of selflessness and not 99.99%. Methar has shown us the way that no matter what it takes, guru devotion and loyalty to our guru and temple should be put at the highest level of importance and urgency. Since Methar was practising Dharma at his level best with great guru devotion before He was brutally killed, Methar has arisen as Dharma Protector to protect the Buddhadharma and protect many Buddhist practitioners after being subdued by Serkong Dorje Chang with Dharma teachings instead of wrathful puja. This true example has shown us that if we have a strong Dharmic imprints from our previous life, we can easily pick up and continue with Dharma practice in our current life without much inner obstacles such as deep ignorance, laziness, stubbornness, selfishness and self-centered mind. We should take every opportunity to practise Dharma as time is short for normal human being.
May many people able to receive protections and blessings from Dharma Protector Methar for smooth Dharma practice with conducive environment to progress in Dharma practice.
Thank you with folded hands,
kin hoe
As Kache Marpo is the “First Minister” to Dorje Shugden, Methar is the “First Minister” to Kache Marpo.
Thank you Rinpoche for this article.._/\_
谢谢仁波切的分享。
Methar 从寺院的财政到被人残忍杀害， 到成为护法的故事真的是一波三折。
首先是 Demo Rinpoche 被一位不知名的人陷害， 他被误以为是想伤害达赖喇嘛而被软禁。 他的寺院 Tengyeling 寺也因为如此而被摧毁了。 其实在这个事件的处理上西藏政府都是非常残忍， 就如杜固扎巴坚赞被杀害、拉章被毁、转世被禁一样， 也被应用在 Demo Rinpoche 身上。
Methar 也存粹因为是当时的Tengyeling 寺的财政而被活活剥皮， 然后被刀捅多次致死。 Methar 虽然是诚心的佛法修持者也因为如此而心生怒气， 死后化身成为力量强大的邪灵。
Methar 成为护法经历也和南喀巴津差不多一样， 都是被高僧降伏， 然后被纳入多杰雄登的曼达拉中。
谢谢
Thank you Rinpoche for sharing with us about this powerful Dharma protector of Methar. Indeed the Tibetan government is a very corrupted government why I said that throughout the history of 5th Dalai Lama and 13th Dalai Lama as well as the current 14th Dalai Lama they are very power hunger and full of greed if I may said that this so bad as a religion practitioner because the government represent the Dalai Lama, his holiness himself is represent compassion and kindness, butI unfortunately his government has stain his name as a holy icon . I must said all these brutal killing that happened is not plan by Dalai Lama himself is the officers who plan all these evil action that cause a lot of harm to an innocent victims.
It seems like little has changed since the time of the 5th Dalai Lama to the 13th Dalai Lama. The Tibetan government will use any tactic to eliminate anyone or group that could potentially threaten their political power and status.
One of the things that I find remarkably inspiring is Methar’s unwavering Guru devotion and deep sense of loyalty towards the Sangha. The fact that he endured all the extremely horrific torture shows me what an extraordinary selfless being he really is.
The photo that stood out for me is the one with the 2nd Serkong Dorje Chang (left) and the son of his previous life Serkong Tsenshab (right). Given the rarity of a photo of a son and his reincarnated father together, to be able to see this is priceless.
Thank you for sharing this interesting and fascinating post, Rinpoche.
In your source “Dundun Namgyal Tsarong. In the Service of His Country: The Biography of Dasang Damdul Tsarong Commander General of Tibet. 2000, Snow Lion”, page 40, there’s a different twist to the story of the shoe.
There is states:
“The next year, in 1896, the Nechung Oracle came to know through divination that a spell had been cast on the Government. Later, Oracle Rago Chenpa produced live scorpions from Pelha Chok, the third story of the Tsuklak Khang, where the protector deity Palden Lhamo resides. As a young boy, my father witnessed this, telling me that the Oracle took the scorpions out from under the deity with his bare hands. This was read as an evil omen by the officials, and the Nechung Oracle put a warning out to the monks at Loseling College, as well as the chief monks of Drepung, to be alert. The Dalai Lama became increasingly concerned when one day in trance before His Holiness, the Nechung Oracle told him that a spell against the spiritual leader was to be found in the boot of Terton Sonam Gyaltsen, someone close to His Holiness at that time. The terton was called and claimed he was given the boots by a tea server from Tengyeling, and, when he began to wear them, he started bleeding from the nose without cause or reason. The boots were brought and opened before all attendants, and found hidden in between one sole was a small paper which carried a curse on His Holiness.”
So this is a different version of how Demo Rinpoche and the Tengyeling Monastery was accused of trying to kill His Holiness.
A very tragic story of an innocent man brutally murdered for deeds he didn’t do and for being loyal to his Lama. Totally despicable to read of the same greed and jealousy that exist in CTA today were already rampant back in the days of the 13th Dalai Lama. The people around the spiritual leader made themselves available only to accumulate resources, as shown in the horrific ways they tortured Methar for the treasure of Tengyeling Monastery. We should not let unjust fell silent and buried unnoticed. This story also bring us to see that compassion can convert the most vindictive mind. It was through the compassion and teaching of Serkong Dorje Chang that Methar took the oath and be bound as a protector. Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this article.
Amazing….From 5th Dalai Lama’s time to 13th Dalai Lama’s time, almost 300 plus years, the Tibetan government still did the same to their enemies who get in their way? The uncivilised and barbaric way of eliminating their enemies just show how backwards they are, worse than narcissists. The Tibetan government’s manipulativeness, selfishness, power motives and most terribly, misuse their power to cause the death of great highly attained beings such as Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen, Demo Rinpoche and lay person Methar whose whole-heartedly follow the Dharma path.
Just like the arose of Dorje Shugden, though Methar’s death was unplanned, Methar died because of his commitment to his guru and it was Dharma that transform him into a Dharma protector. Both protectors absorbed the sufferings and pain just to protect the Dharma. Such are Bodhisattva qualities.
Thank you Rinpoche for composing the praise to Methar, the Tengyeling’s Dharmaphala for people to pray to him. I guess not many are aware of this protector as its photo is rarely seen, many monk friends of mine have also not heard about Methar. Thank you Blog team for always working hard for getting this article up to educate and nurture us with new knowledge.
I find this account of the origins of Methar fascinating and for sure, there are a lot of similarities in the stories of Methar and Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen. Both suffered under the tyranny of the Tibetan government and both were murdered by the Tibetan authorities but over different centuries. It shows a pattern of abuse by the leadership that today is known as the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA).
What touches me most about Methar’s story was how he was subdued by Serkong Dorje Shugden’s Dharma teaching. This itself augments the question why Dorje Shugden could not have been similarly subdued by even the most potent and forceful of means available to Tibetan lamas. According to anti-Dorje Shugden argument, Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen arose as a spirit by the violent and traumatic way he died. And yet, if Methar could be subdued, why not Dorje Shugden if indeed he is a truly a malicious element?
Another aspect of this story that I like is how gentle Serkong Dorje Chang was, with Methar. But we have to remember that Methar was wronged and tortured not because of any crime but because he was loyal to Demo Rinpoche. It is this loyalty and resoluteness that now strengthens Dorje Shugden’s mandala. This is not to mention Methar’s potency due to the fact that he is a protector that arose only recently and therefore closely linked to sentient beings of this present karmic era.
Dear Rinpoche
Thank you for this informative post. I enjoyed reading it. Prior to reading this article, I read a history book in a passing that Demo Rinpoche was tried for something, but I was not clear for what. Now with this story, I got the missing historical information.
Methar story is truly a sad one. The gruesome torture that he experienced before his death was very unnecessary and barbaric. I am glad that these sort of barbaric treatment is outlawed nowadays.
It is interesting when Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen was murdered, he immediately arose as a Dharma protector. But when Methar was murdered, he arose as a ranging spirit until he was subdued by Serkong Dorje Chang. I guess this is another proof that Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen was an enlightened being and degeneration from enlightened state is impossible.
I am glad that Methar story had a happy ending and currently he is benefitting being as part of Dorje Shugden entourage.
Valentina
I have read about the boots that was presented as a gift to the previous 13th Dalai Lama that contained a secret mantra to harm him and did not realize the corresponding relation to Methar, who rose to become an oath bound dharma protector in Dorje Shugden’s mandala.
Methar’s story had a sad ending, much like how Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen death. Both of their death were the culmination of the desire of greed by the Tibetan government to overtake their popularity, wealth and power. They have so much similarities in their tragic lives and both also took oath to become dharma protector.
This story helped me realized that loyal and devoted enlightened beings like Methar and Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen had enormous compassion, wisdom and kindness to help all beings despite their own gruesome deaths. They have dharmic seeds to continue to benefit even after their deaths and as dharma protectors.
I hope to read more in future of the other dharma protector’s story who are inside Dorje Shugden’s mandala to motivate and inspire the faithful. Thank you for sharing this story of how Methar arose to benefit us all.
Dear Rinpoche,
This tragic story has shown that the Tibetan Government can do anything just to take control of Tibet and ensure their position is secure, without thinking on the karma. To secure their position, they have used H.H Dalai Lama as an excuses to harm the innocent Tibetan, how the dharma can be secure with this kind of situation.
Methar could be rose as Dharma protector; the most important attitude he has was Guru Devotion. Even though he was brutally tortured, his mind still thinking of his Guru and Protector. Methar story gave me a clue that, Guru Devotion is important for our spiritual path. Methar loyalty towards his Guru has save him from becoming a fierce spirit and harm more people, which eventually will harm him at the end.
Because of his Guru Devotion and loyalty, Methar could stand that brutal pain causes by torturing and does not gave in the information that the greedy Government wanted. He goes all the way just to protect his Guru.
Methar story inspire me on important of Guru Devotion and do more Dharma with sincerity while we are still alive. If unfortunate happens, at least our mind will have Dharmic imprint and could be save us from doing more harm to ourself and others.
Thank you for sharing the story on Methar of Tengyeling Monastery.
With folded hand,
Freon
I have one more story about the Second Serkong Dorje Chan of the ’70 but I’ll tell you later.long life to Tzem Rinpoche.paul
Dear paolorossi4444, when are you going to tell us the other story? Waiting eagerly…
I had the great fortune to meet the Second Serkong Dorje Chan in His Room at His Gonpa in Swayambunath close to Saraswati hill.It was in the ’70 He was famous among dharmabums for a story:
Rinpoche was the abbot of His Gonpa,
one day His servant (they said He was Dorje zShugden emanation a lay guy)enter in Rinpoche room and found Him drinking a bottle of arak something like vodka,the servant asthonished told Rinpoche better not to drink such liquor (dont forget Serkong Rinpoche is Dorje Chan)in reply SR said take my woodden bowl and follow me.
They went to katmandu in a place called pig street,terrible place there was like a small river of blood interiors so on there He asked the bowl digg it into the filth and say oh delicious!the servant took back the bowl and replied lhaso lhaso and they went back.paul
Thank you Paolorossi4444 for the Mahasiddha type story/teaching.
Thank you Paolorossi4444 for sharing such a story. This reminded me about what His Holiness the Dalai Lama once said (in his reply about tantric consort practices), referring to a person who views all the phenomena of cyclic existence with complete impartiality: “The kind of realization that is required is like this: If someone gives you a goblet of wine and a glass of urine, or a plate of wonderful food and a piece of excrement, you must be in such a state that you can eat and drink from all four and it makes no difference to you what they are.”
(John Powers, “Introduction to Tibetan Buddhism”, Snow Lion Publications, 1995, p. 252.)
How fortunate we are that in this day and age, great teachers or practitioners who have achieved realization are still around, showing us that practices do have results.
Thank you for sharing this interesting history article. It is really shocking at the same time educative reading this story of the past.
What i felt after reading this article are:
1. CTA’s current predicament is entirely their predecessor’s wrong doing. Out of jealously and self gain they have created heavy karma by killing high lamas such as Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen; framing Lamas like Demo Rinpoche, Tulku Nyari and also Methar.
2. I was rather amazed by Serkong Dorje Chang. An High Lama whom i will always remember for compassionately used Dharma to “subdue” an angry spirit like Methar. I think it is also the skillful means used by Serkong Dorje Chang in helping Methar to be in Dorje Shugden’s mandala making him one of the assistants of Kache Marpo benefitting Methar and more people prompting the growth of Dharma.
Thank you Rinpoche and writers team for this post on powerful Methar.
It is indeed very fascinating to read about the origin of Methar and how Methar arose as a Dharma Protector and under Dorje Shugden Mandala.
It is very sad to know more stories about how CTA has caused the death of Demo Rinpoche, Methar and Nyari Tulku. CTA has silenced anyone that they feel threatened and for their political gain. Just like what they did to Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen. So much negative karma that they have created and that causing Tibetans suffer so much due to the collective karma.
However, it is also very inspiring to learn that due to the strong Dharma Imprint, strong guru devotion and faith to protector, Methar was subdued by the Dharma teaching of Serkong Dorje Chang. Methar then took oath for not doing any more harm and arose as a powerful Dharma protector who can aid practitioners quickly and effectively. This has showed me the importance of guru devotion that will also help us to be closed to Dharma in our next lives.
Lastly, thank you Rinpoche for composing the praise to Methar that we can recites many times to invoke the powerful assistance and energy from Methar.
With folded hands, Wei Theng
Amazing the story of methar and it just happened recently at the time of 13 Dalai Lama,that’s why the Chinese Governament of today consider the Tibetan Governament barbarian they skinned a guy alive just in the 1920,like the SS in Germany ,most civiliezed european country nowaday.So one would say the 13 Dalai Lama head of Tibet that time was aware of these acts of his governament.?Of course he was their king.
The same is happening nowaday,Disgusting.
Paolo rossi4444
When I first read about Methar either in the Oracles of Demon, in which he was mentioned briefly or online as a comment, I didn’t think much about him. I just thought he was another powerful raging spirit that was subdued and placed in the mandala of Dorje Shugden.
But I was really impressed when I read Methar’s story here because he was subdued by a Dharma teaching and that he arose due to Guru devotion. That is just so utterly incredible. To me, that’s just incredible to have such powerful devotion to the lama, protector (Kache Marpo) and the Dharma. He has gotten me smitten with him because I find that inspirational although he is not a transcendent enlightened Protector.
Please Tsem Tulku live till the end of Samsara for the benefit of all sentient beings.italychampatogme
We thank you with our heads down and our hands together.
Thank you Rinpoche for this interesting teaching on Methar. There is a lot of similarities between Demo Rinpoche, Methar and Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen. They were murdered by the ruling government due to their insecurity, greed and jealousy. Their ladrangs and wealth of their ladrang were confiscated by the government and the search for the reincarnation was banned.
The differences between Methar and Dorje Shugden are:
1. Methar is an unenlightened protector while Dorje Shugden is an enlightened protector.
2. Methar took rebirth as a spirit after he was murdered brutally and was later subdued by Serkong Dorje Chang. Serkong Dorje Chang was asked to do wrathful fire pujas to subdue Methar but out of compassion, Serkong Dorje Chang subdued Methar with Dharma teachings. Methar having strong Dharma imprints was able to be subdued easily and took the oath to become a Dharma protector.
3. Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen on the other hand had made a promise to become a Dharma protector many life times before to protect Tsongkhapa’s doctrine. The ruling government attempted to kill him but at the end he willingly taught them the method to kill him so that he could fulfil his promise of becoming a protector. Many fire Pujas were performed by high lamas trying to subdue Dorje Shugden but failed. This proved that Dorje Shugden is not a spirit at all because if he is he would have been destroyed by the fire pujas.
4. Methar is ‘working’ for Kache Marpo, while Kache Marpo ‘works’ for Dorje Shugden.
It is also clear to see very often the ruling government would do anything to harm a person they think is a threat to their power even though that person might be someone who brings tremendous benefits to the people in Tibet.
It might seem strange that Tengyeling Monastery would show such disloyalty to Tibet and to the Dalai Lama by siding the Chinese and aiding the Chinese troops, when China invaded Tibet.However, the Tengyeling oracle had taken trance of the Dharma protector Tsiu Marpo (also known as Kache Marpo), and told the monks to aid the Chinese and fight against the Kashag of the 13th Dalai Lama. The Dalai Lama had already fled the country.
It was Demo Rinpoche (the abbot of this Monastery) who had developed great faith in Tsiu Marpo(Kache Marpo) and taken him as his personal protector. He had subsequently built a protector chapel to him in the monastery. Since then Kache Marpo had become the protector of Tengyeling Monastery. Hence the Monastery’s devotion to their Guru(Demo Rinpoche) and their strong faith and trust in their Protector and the oracle had led them to follow the advice of the oracle.
Anyway, the monastery was ransacked and destroyed by the Tibetan Government and the monks and the people in the monastery who were involved, were brutally punished.
Methar was an ardent disciple of Demo Rinpoche and also a man of great integrity. He refused to divulge to the Tibetan Government where the wealth of the Monastery was kept.His devotion to his Guru and to the Sangha of Tengyeling Monastery was so great that he kept mum despite being horrifically skinned alive, brutally disembowelled and stabbed repeatedly. Throughout the whole gruesome and savage ordeal, Methar remembered his guru and Kache Marpo, the Dharma protector of Tengyeling. So strong and intense was his devotion to both his Guru and his Protector that he endured it all.
Nonetheless, he had developed great anger . This led him to take rebirth as a ferocious spirit bent on revenge and he caused a lot of harm. He had arisen to right the wrongs inflicted upon himself, his guru and the monastery.
Serkong Dorje Chang, the great tantric master, had been asked to subdue him with fire pujas and rituals. Instead he taught Methar the Dharma and the importance of being compassionate.Methar had strong Dharmic imprints and devotion from his previous life. He also had a strong karmic link to Kache Marpo from a previous life , and had relied heavily on Kache Marpo as Protector, when he was treasurer of the Monastery.
Hence, after listening to the Dharma teachings of Serkong Dorje Chang,Methar willingly took an oath to become a Dharma Protector. Hence, Serkong Dorje Chang placed him into Dorje Shugden’s mandala, under the care of Kache Marpo.
He is a very potent protector and helps the dharma practioners, who seek his help, quickly and effectively. Serkong Dorje Chang and his son Serkong Tsenshab Rinpoche of Gaden Jangtse Monastery are among the many who have relied on this protector. This story of political intrigue, unholy plots against innocent men and murder, fortunately ended well.
感谢仁波切的开示与教诲，
我很开心能够获得知道原来Methar护法同样是在多杰雄登护法的曼达拉里面，并且主要协助喀切瑪波护法，我感到非常殊胜能够看到Methar护法的画像，因为仁波切与写作团体不断努力与不眠不休的搜索，考证，筛选资料并且写作与翻译，查证的努力下，我们能够得到那么多的佛法知识与资料。
在阅读这贴子时，Mather在还没有成为护法前，因为带着非常痛苦与愤怒的力量死去，并在他忆念起他的上师与护法喀切瑪波，而造成了Mather成为护法，这一点让我感到非常动容，在生活上往往我们遇到痛苦与困难或愤怒时，我们很少会想到我们的上师与护法，而大多数的我们都会选择放弃与报仇，可见Mather护法对于佛法，上师与护法的依止心是如此的强烈与实践出佛法的精髓，而这是非常值得我们学习的，希望我们都可以成为多杰雄登护法曼达拉里面的一员，帮助多杰雄登护法帮助一切有情众生，得闻佛法，修持佛法，离苦得乐，直至或的证悟
谢谢
Jerry Sito
Very informative & profound sharing, very detail and in depth research. Thank you Rinpoche and the team for this eye opening and beneficial article.This great post shown a very good example of a protector’s strong Guru Devotion and pure motivation in service to the Guru and dharma.
The story of Methar also brought out the key point that any wrathful spirit can be subdued. Methar encountered horrific death, then subdued to be dharma protector under the entourage of Karche Marpo.
Serkong Dorje Chang constantly taught Methar not to harm others and developing compassion and placed him into Dorje Shugden’s mandala, under the care of Kache Marpo who Methar had a strong connection with from his previous life.
This shown that the importance of one’s dharma imprints and merits in order to have a good rebirth. If one’s faith, trust and devotion to Guru was strong in previous life will lead one to a new good rebirth, continue to benefit others.
I’ve been waiting to read info on this one. So hard to come across info regarding this dharmapala. A lot of hard work and research was put into this one. What I learned from it and that of Namkar Barzin’s write up is the the moments leading to one’s death are very critical to how someone will be reborn. The impact on there mind in the last moments is crucial. Not many individuals would be so lucky to have dharma imprints and the merits to arise as a protector. Both individuals had strong guru devotion and practiced the dharma strongly. Though in their last moments both had anger arise in their minds and caused them to be reborn as raging spirits that had to be subdued and oath bound by a lama. Both because of their imprints and merits were lucky to be oath bound to assist sentient beings and had the great fortune to be placed in Dorje Shugden’s care in his mandala. Thank you H.E Tsem Tulku Rinpoche & blog team for your time effort and research.
Thank you Rinpoche for this eye opening article that shows such powerful contradictions when ignorance remain strong in people, especially “high” practitioners. In our minds, Buddhism is good and yet often times, we read about how “practitioners” in very high positions, in this case the very officials of the Dalai Lama, overcame by their lust for power, greed and pride to exercise their authority with wrongful motivations. As with Nyatrul, this lay Treasurer of Tengyeling Monastery was innocently tortured and killed wrongfully which resulted him taking on the form of the spirit known as Methar. One thing that stood out to me was that due to his being a sincere practitioner of the Dharma, with his strong Guru Devotion to Demo Rinpoche and faith in Protector Kache Marpo, it was Dharma that saved him from creating more karma as the spirit. When Serkong Dorjechang gave him teachings, Methar with his strong imprint for Dharma, easily took on the Oath to be a Protector under Kache Marpo, within the mandala of Lord Dorje Shugden. It is very clear that only the Dharma practiced with pure Guru Devotion and the faith in our protector will provide that chance to help us in future rebirths, by leading us back to the Dharma we had practiced.
It is amazing how this story parallel the story of how Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen was also murdered by the Ministers of the 5th Dalai Lama due to their jealousy, pride and greed. So it is not something out of the norm that the personal offices of the Holy Dalai Lama, could commit grave sins although being so close to an enlightened Boddhisatva. However Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen’s arising as Dorje Shugden was a fulfilment of a promise to be the Protector of Lama Tsongkapa’s precious teachings and orchestrated by Nechung. Tulku Drakpa Gyetsent already had the enlightended mindstream as Manjushri (as the 5th Dalai Lama had the enlightened mindstream of Avalokisteshvara) and as such Lord Dorje Shugden is already of the enlightened mind and not a spirit to be subdued into his position as Protector.
May His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama manifest his enlightened emanation of Avalokisteshvara to right the wrongs on the ban of Protector Dorje Shugden’s practice as the enlightened 5th Dalai Lama had in the past. May the unity of all Tibetan Buddhist practitioners be the legacy of the 14th Dalai Lama. Om Benza Wiki Bitana Soha.
Thank you Rinpoche for the fascinating read. With so many skeletons in their cupboard, I’m not surprised the TBA has continued to take the stand against Dorje Shugden. There are too many dark secrets they’re trying to keep under wraps, but exposed they should be. One thing for sure, they can’t hide from karma. One negative and harmful action leads to another to cover up the first and another the second and so forth. Karma will catch up and will snowball.
I’m inspired to note that Nechung and Methar were similar in that they were naughty spirits and did a lot of harm before they were subdued. They turned over a new leaf and swore to serve the dharma.
That goes to show that no matter how abominable one has been in the past, one may not necessarily be a hopeless write-off. One can still admit to the wrongdoings, resolve never to repeat them, atone and make amends. Though the results of the previous actions may still need to be suffered, the ensuing purification and collection of merit still can lead to attainments. Similarly the people behind the TBA could also go along that route. I certainly hope so.
Typo. Should be CTA.
Tibetan Government instead of bringing the benefit to the Tibetan, they created more bad karma by accused the high lama , Demo Rinpohce. Furthermore, they tortured and killed Nyari Tulku. and later Methar. Repeatedly we have seen many time of how Tibetan Government treated badly to the high lama who has powerful influences, one of them is Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen. Do you like a government who always act on their greed and jealousy?
Although Methar took rebirth as an anger spirit, he willingly took oath as a Dharma Protector was due to he had strong Dharma imprints. It shows that it is important for us to learn Dharma so that we have the imprint to be connected to the Dharma again in our future life.
Also because of Methar’s guru devotion and the merits of protecting the guru and the monastery had cause him being save by the Sekong Dorje Chang to become a Dharma Protector instead of being a spirit to harm others. Again, it wake me up that how important of guru devotion and protect our center.
Thank you for this wonderful post of Methar.
Dear Rinpoche,
Thank you for this wonderful post on Methar. It was really interesting and especially the truth about how Methar came about which is how the Dalai Lama’s ministers/Tibetan Government have wrongly accused, condemned, torture and killed people and even high Lamas. There is good evidences here to show this is not a made up story and this story is obviously not the first. It just goes to show the kind of track record the Tibetan Government is infamous for. They just basically wipe away and kill anyone they feel threatened all due to their greed and power.
This is not an isolated case, as it is similar to what they did to Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen. And they always try to ban their incarnations, basically stop people from recognising them. All this harm they have done to so many Lamas and innocent people, their karma will surely return. I can’t help to think, perhaps that is why they lost Tibet and will probably never get it back. And up until today they are still oppressing their people, speciically Dorje Shugden practitioners.
Where on earth do you hear a democratic government dividing their own people? Great leaders bring people together in unity and harmony. So it is very sad and disgusting to read the kind of crimes they do and yet they can get away with it. Why does the His Holiness allow this is a wonder. I can only conclude is that even though evil, H.H. Dalai Lama allows them to be nea him, hopefully to collect some kind of merits? That is the only excuse I can think of that would make some kind of weird sense.
It is good to know that Methar is under Dorje Shugden’s entourage and specifically under Kache Marpo, it goes to show that he has strong Dharma imprint or merits to allow him to serve Dorje Shugden and be an entourage. It’s funny to know that even in Dorje Shugden’s entourage, it consist of those who were wrongly accused, condemdned or wronged by the Tibetan Government and killed, like Dorje Shugden himself. I suppose that is the karmic connection with Dorje Shugden. And in real life, we the practitioners of Dorje Shugden carry the same burden as our protector of being wrongly accused and condemned. I think soon the karma will ripen for the Tibetan Government to face their injustice crimes are one by one surfacing for the world to know. They are wolves hiding behind Dalai Lama’s robes but not for long.
This is a very interesting article and i really enjoyed reading about the background of Methar. It is quite sad to see politics affects Buddhism.But I like the explanation of how Methar is subdued, which is by giving Dharma teaching of negative karmic effects of harming others and about developing compassion.Like Nyatrul, Mentar was murdered by the Tibetan Government due to greed and jealousy. Both became powerful spirits but because of their Dharmic inclinations and merits they were subdued and took oat to become Dharma Protectors.i’m also very inspired by Serkong Dorje Chang who gives dharma talks to malevolent spirits to calm them down, and also bringing ‘Methar’ to the mandala of Dorje Shugden. Thank you very much Rinpoche and blog writers for this wonderful story on this Dharma Protector.
This is a very interesting article and i really enjoyed reading about the background of Methar. Here are some important points that i have read and understood in this story.
Methar was an ardent disciple of Demo Rinpoche and loved the monastic community of Tengyeling. He practiced the Dharma to the best of his ability and was obviously trustworthy enough to hold such an important position within the monastery. This position would have only be bestowed on someone qualified to do a good job and would have been appointed by the holy monastic community themselves, showing he was a person who was well respected.
Due to their greed and jealousy in wanting the resources of Tengyeling, the Tibetan government had Methar imprisoned. In fact many people claim that the whole situation surrounding the silk soles that Demo Rinpoche gave to the 13th Dalai Lama had been orchestrated by the Tibetan government and high officials.
While in prison, Methar was tortured by the Tibetan army. He was asked to give up the location of Tengyeling’s accumulated resources, such as the gold, silver, gems and other precious and holy items that the monastery had been bestowed over time and relied on for their sustenance.
“His anger arose because the Tibetan government had let their greed take the better of them, to the extent of harming his guru and the holy Tengyeling monastery. “
“Serkong Dorjechang said, “Stop harming sentient beings and go to the place named Drom Thöd.”
“Serkong Dorjechang explained to Methar about the karma of harming others, and the benefit of helping others. Methar was so impressed and touched by the advice of Serkong Dorjechang that he took an oath that he will never harm anyone.”
“After that, Methar was accepted as a Protector and a tenkhang [Protector chapel] was built. Serkong Dorjechang requested the jindak [sponsor] of the Meldro area to do daily prayers to Methar at that tenkhang. Serkong Dorjechang also told Methar, “You should always be helpful to them.”
Thank you very much Rinpoche and blog writers for this wonderful story on this Dharma Protector.
This is an indeed very interesting read about Methar. It is quite sad to see politics affects Buddhism in quite a big way. But then again, I guess politics is everywhere. Also, it is sad to see that Demo Rinpoche’s line of reincarnation is destroy because of political motives.
But I like the explanation of how Methar is subdued, which is by giving Dharma teaching of negative karmic effects of harming others and about developing compassion, instead of performing fire puja. It goes to show that Methar is a real Dharma practitioner before his death.
Thank You Rinpoche for this post of Methar of Tengyeling Monastery.
Like Nyatrul, Mentar was murdered by the Tibetan Government due to greed and jealousy. Both became powerful spirits but because of their Dharmic inclinations and merits they were subdued and took oat to become Dharma Protectors
What I learned from this is that the world we live in is full of delusions and negative karma that results in sufferings for ourselves and others. In spite of this we should practice the Dharma for there will never be perfect conditions for Dharma practice; only “perfect conditions” not to practice Dharma. But the latter brings only more sufferings. Hence, Dharma is the only assured path to happiness for self and others.
I really enjoyed reading about Methar, about his origins and what he has become eventually, I do hope ‘Methar’ will be like Namka Bardzin they will serve the Mandala of Dorje Shugden and speed their ways towards enlightenment.
Some of the points that stood out for me is that ‘Methar’ carried on making the same sounds, as per how he was hurt and tortured, which is very much describes how spirits also do the same they are attached to, or those that brought about their demise.
Also noted that ‘Methar’ did nine times Yamantaka retreats, had full devotion to his teacher and Kache Marpo, so despite an inauspicious event happened to him, he was able to be brought into Dorje Shudgen mandala by Serkong Dorjechang. So all his actions prior to his death, contributed to him manifesting as an oath bound protector.
What is also interesting, was that Methar stole the life essence of the organs, which was the method he harmed others before he became oath bound. probably he caused organ failure, which leads to the death of the targeted person.
Dorje Shugden has been described as having the strength of 10 million oath bound dharma protectors thats like having the strength of 10 million Nechung(s) imagine that! And Dorje Shdugen and its mandala, is very representative of the skill, creativity of Manjushri that it is able to save beings, not matter how difficult their conditions are, even save malevolent raging spirits like ‘Methar’ and ‘Namka Bardzin’, that no matter what obstacles and challenges is faced, Dorje Shudgen and his mandala are able to turn something negative to positive.
Also very very inspired by the likes of Serkong Dorje Chang who gives dharma talks to malevolent spirits to calm them down, and also bringing ‘Methar’ to the mandala of Dorje Shugden. Serkong Dorje Chang obviously known the circumstances of ‘Methar’ birth as a malevolent spirit which is why he had much compassion for ‘Methar’. I have seen on the internet a monk who was trying to help a being possessed by a spirit.