United Colors of Spirituality
(By Tsem Rinpoche and Li Kheng)
One morning, I received a teaching from my Guru, His Eminence the 25th Tsem Rinpoche on “Why we want to become Vajrayogini” by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. After watching the profound teaching that was delivered in an extremely easy to understand manner, the first thought that came into my mind was:
It is such a pity that because of the Dorje Shugden ban, people like me get distracted from knowing this Dharma master beyond the controversy. It is a great loss that his insightful and generous teachings conveyed in a relatable manner are lost in the fight between pro-Dorje Shugden and pro-Dalai Lama groups.
Expanding on this thought, I realized how many good lessons in life we miss because we focus on the negative aspects of life that blind us from the hope that still shines before us everyday. The wider impact of this “little ban” is significant because it reveals how we permit things to be despite knowing it is completely wrong and that it destroys all the civil progress that our forefathers fought for. It is like shutting one eye and walking away from a situation where help is desperately needed.
This is why Rinpoche is so adamant that the ban must be lifted. Besides relieving Dorje Shugden practitioners from unnecessary suffering caused by discrimination, suppression and threats to life and security, this ban deprives global citizens who seek wisdom, goodness and peace of Dharma teachings that offer solutions. This in turn means that religious bans and breaches of religious freedoms like in the case of Dorje Shugden’s practice keep us in this vicious cycle of fear that leads to anger, selfishness and ignorance.
The incredible danger of the Dorje Shugden ban is that it is an “enemy” that is spreading the poison from within. Dorje Shugden practitioners are ostracized, threatened, shunned and jeered at by the very people they grew up with and with whom they shared a common aspiration to benefit others. In a precise illustration of “biting the hand that feeds them”, students are putting down their teachers who practice Dorje Shugden, despite having received tremendous Dharma knowledge from them.
I grew up in a country where we take pride in the multi-racial and multi-cultural society that forms the “Malaysia, Truly Asia” persona of this land I call home. Hence, living in harmony with fellow Malaysians who are Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Christian etc. is a norm. In fact, having lived in this colorful and vibrant environment, I almost took harmony in diversity for granted and did not cherish it through deeper understanding. It is from Rinpoche’s teaching on mantras being the sound manifestation of the Buddha that I now interpret and appreciate the reading of the Quran to be a method through which the local Muslim community blesses the environment with positive sound energy. I am not saying that the reading of the Quran is intended to be such, but as a member of the community, I am able to develop a sincere appreciation for it, which in turn creates respect for others’ practice and culture.
Reflecting on this in relations to fellow Malaysians with whom I share this beautiful country, I realize that THIS is Dharma: a practice of equanimity, which is offering the same attitude towards everyone regardless of their race, background or faith. Equanimity is the ability to identify and embrace the beauty of diversity. It is Tsem Rinpoche, a Dorje Shugden Lama whom the Central Tibetan Administration accuses of being sectarian, who taught this spiritual lesson of tolerance to me.
To me, actions speak louder than words. And through their actions, the Central Tibetan Administration is a much more accurate reflection of sectarianism. Solely on the basis that they practice Dorje Shugden, lamas and practitioners have been discriminated against and deprived of some of the most fundamental needs such as medical attention, education and food supplies. Monks who renounced all material possessions and relations with the secular world because of their faith in the Three Jewels were expelled from their monasteries, leaving them with nothing and no one to turn to. A decision to cause such consequences is beyond sectarian, it is inhuman. How can we, informed global citizens of the 21st Century, permit representatives of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, an icon of peace and tolerance, to get away with such severe crimes against humanity?
This is just one example of how Dorje Shugden practitioners are shunned and ostracized. This is how pro-Dalai Lama supporters treat their fellow countrymen who chose a different belief. Why would people spend time and effort to propagate such wrong actions? I believe that for most, it is the desire to conform, to continue to be accepted in their society because this dog-eat-dog world is too lonely and difficult to bear alone. I do not believe that anyone who aspires to gain realizations, attainments, Bodhicitta and wisdom would want their spiritual journey to be tainted with politics, criticism and discrimination of their fellow human beings. It is individuals or groups like the Central Tibetan Administration who identified this need and habit to conform and took advantage of their upper hand to inflict separation and disharmony for personal gain using a vehicle (Buddhism) that is intended to be a way out of samsara.
H.E. Tsem Rinpoche and our Lineage Gurus, H.H. Pabongka Rinpoche, H.H. Trijang Rinpoche and H.H. Zong Rinpoche.
I am grateful whenever Rinpoche sends us spiritual lessons in any form or manner, as there is always something beneficial that will uplift the level of our thinking and attitude. Rinpoche often shares profound teachings from other spiritual masters, good examples of other faiths and religions as well as exemplary celebrities so that we practice humanity, live consciously with fellow sentient beings and make sustainable decisions in consideration of our merit bank and karma composition.
The human race has progressed significantly and we are now able to call ourselves a civilization by the blood, sweat and tears of previous generations. Today, children of various racial, religious and social backgrounds have the equal opportunity to share a classroom in most parts of the world. It is impossible for anyone to turn a blind eye on Dorje Shugden practitioners who are being ostracized by their very own people who share the same land, traditions, dreams and leadership. The ban must end for the sake of humanity.
We are in the age of the United Colors of Spirituality, a time of acceptance, and every time we turn away from those in need, we shed a layer of our potential to fulfill our spiritual awakening.
Memo from the Central Tibetan Administration’s Department of Health calling for the resignation of employees who practice Dorje Shugden. Given the shortage of qualified healthcare staff, it is clear that politics are prioritized above the welfare of Tibetan citizens. Click to enlarge.
For the benefit of those who do not know about Dorje Shugden and the ban, or the dire consequences that have arisen from the spiritual division created by the ban, in a nutshell:
- Dorje Shugden is an enlightened Dharma Protector who manifested about 400 years ago from a lineage of erudite masters like Mahasiddha Biwawa, Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen, Panchen Sonam Drakpa and Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen who are recognized emanations of Manjushri, the Buddha of Wisdom.
- There were inauspicious events when Dorje Shugden first arose because a divine play was staged through the wisdom of the Gods that resulted in the murder of Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen. After several unmistakable signs, Dorje Shugden was enthroned as a Dharma Protector by the Sakya Trizin and recognized by the 5th Dalai Lama who wrote a praise to this Enlightened Protector, crafted a Dorje Shugden image with his own hands and built a chapel, Trode Khangsar, for Dorje Shugden.
- From the time Dorje Shugden was enthroned, his practice spread far and wide through the tireless efforts of renowned Dorje Shugden masters like H.H. Pabongka Rinpoche, H.H. Trijang Rinpoche, H.H. Zong Rinpoche, H.E. Rabten Rinpoche and H.E. Domo Geshe Rinpoche, just to name a few.
The long list of Dorje Shugden masters whose work has benefited the Dharma tremendously and who have all returned to continue turning the Wheel of Dharma as recognized by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama
- The ban came in the form of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama’s “advice” directing all subjects of the Central Tibetan Administration to give up their practice of Dorje Shugden. Failure to comply would lead to expulsion, segregation and threats. The implementation of this “advice” ranged from the infamous red/yellow stick referendum on Dorje Shugden to social pressure on households and businesses to turn away from individuals who chose to continue their practice.
The video below highlights announcements of the ban and the granting of permission to use harsh methods to enforce it, including the expulsion of Dorje Shugden monks.
Those who chose to discontinue spiritual and material relations with Dorje Shugden followers would pick the yellow colored voting stick while those who chose to continue their practice would pick the red stick.
- The consequences… ugly. Tibetans, lay and ordained, turned against each other. Brothers and sisters from the Land of Snows rained hostility, aggression and violence on each other. A nation is not ruined when they lose the land they call home but when they lose the bond that holds the people together to a common vision. Holy images like Dorje Shugden statues and H.H. Trijang Rinpoche’s photos were removed from monasteries and nunneries. Monks were beaten, clubbed and stabbed; walls were built between monasteries that practice Dorje Shugden and those that do not. These are just some of the results of the Dorje Shugden ban.
Five masked men bearing knives attacked an 84-year old monk who dedicated his life to the Dharma at Trijang Ladrang in Shar Gaden Monastery. Who can these dedicated elderly sangha members turn to for help given that the authorities put in place to protect their wellbeing are the very people threatening their safety and lives?
Monk covered in blood in the name of “Free Tibet” and “Long live the Dalai Lama”
- Current news of hope… International media has created increased exposure and awareness of the plight of Dorje Shugden practitioners in the world, where breaches of human rights and religious freedom is not tolerated. The Tibetan leadership is being questioned and this encourages young Tibetans to stand up and have their voices heard. Never before has the Central Tibetan Administration been answerable to its people. This is the time of change and like the saying goes, strike while the iron is still hot: the ban must end now for humanity, for hope and for a future.
For more information about Dorje Shugden:
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If you are in the United States, please note that your offerings and contributions are tax deductible. ~ the tsemrinpoche.com blog team
Thank you Li Kheng for highlighting the problems, sufferings under the unethical Dorje Shugden ban.
Dorje Shugden is one of the important protector deities worshipped by many throughout the Tibetan Buddhism . And even many high Lamas since the time of the 5th Dalai Lama and in monasteries have had propitiated Dorje Shugden. Tibetan leadership has been exploiting their people all these years with the Dorje Shugden ban. Many families are torn apart by this ban instituted by the Tibetan Leadership.
Living in Malaysia a multi-country is a privilege , we allowed to pray what we want , having religious freedom. But not for those Tibetans living in India, Nepal and so forth who propitiate Dorje Shugden. Current days many news has created increased exposure and awareness of the plight of Dorje Shugden practitioners in the world. And it is slowly going down to history , as many Tibetans are standing up and speaking up on the unfairness and discrimination to be heard.
Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding…..quoted.
The Tibetan people lacks religious freedom to practice how and what they want, as more than enough evidence surfacing and many are aware of the issue. Many more are speaking up on the unfairness and discrimination against the Tibetan leadership or the CTA. The ban of Dorje Shugden by the CTA has caused sufferings, disharmony, hardships , social problems and so forth to many practitioners and non- practitioners around the world for the past 20 years. Due to the ban against Dorje Shugden the whole Tibetan Buddhist world is divided until now.
We are fortunate living in a Malaysia , we have religious freedom we are allowed to pray what we want. Buddhism is a peaceful religion , in fact all religion taught us to be compassion, kind and caring.
Thank you Li Kheng for this write up on Dorje Shugden ban . Highlighting the problems, sufferings under the unethical Dorje Shugden ban.
May the ban be lifted soon .
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
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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
“The 4th Zhabdrung Rinpoche of Bhutan and Dorje Shugden” blog post which was published June 8, 2018 already has exactly at the moment 152,744 views!! Over 150k views!!! Amazing!! The views will keep growing as time elapses of course.
This indicates many Bhutanse and Buddhists around the world will now know that Dorje Shugden is connected to Bhutan and their Kagyu Lineage. Dorje Shugden was promoted by the highest lama of Bhutan namely the 4th Zhabdrung Rinpoche himself. So Dorje Shugden will help and protect anyone and is not sectarian as they accuse him to be. People in the Kagyu school of Buddhism also practised Dorje Shugden and Dorje Shugden assisted them lovingly. Dorje Shugden being an emanation of Manjushri will help anyone who calls upon him regardless of their background and religion.
Good job to our writers, researchers, editors, technical team, supporting team and Kechara people who promoted this blog post on social media. Now more will come to understand how pervasive Dorje Shugden is in all the lineages of Tibetan Buddhism although the Tibetan leadership in-exile tries to hide this truth. Thank you everyone for promoting Dorje Shugden to benefit many. We were all very harmonious before the unethical ban against Dorje Shugden practitioners. Since the inception of the ban in 1996, there has been no benefits and instead so much disharmony among Tibetan Buddhists around the world. Many hundreds have spoken up about this point where we want harmony back. There should never be a ban against any spiritual practice.
Tsem Rinpoche
Blog post- https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=160863
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于2018年6月8日发表的《不丹国第四世夏仲仁波切与多杰雄登》的博文至今已经有 152,744次的浏览量！！也就是超过了15万次的浏览量！！这个数字肯定还会随着时间而增长。
这表示很多不丹人和全世界的佛教徒现在已经知道了多杰雄登和不丹以及他们的噶举派传承是有紧密联系的。多杰雄登是被不丹的最高级别的喇嘛夏仲仁波切本身所推崇的。这显示了多杰雄登是会帮助和保护任何人的，而祂不是像他人所指控那样的充满宗派主义。佛教的噶举派的修行者也修持多杰雄登，而多杰雄登也很怀爱地帮助他们。多杰雄登是文殊菩萨的化身，祂将无视任何宗教和背景地去帮助任何召唤祈请祂的人们。
我们的写作、搜集资料，编辑、技术、辅助等的人员们和推广这篇博文的克切拉人们，你们做得好！虽然流亡藏人领袖们尝试掩盖事实，但现在更多的人将了解到多杰雄登在所有藏传佛教的传承中是多么的普及了。感谢大家努力推广多杰雄登以造福大众。在这个不道德的多杰雄登禁令出现之前，我们都是很和谐融洽的。自从禁令在1996年开始之后，它为全世界的藏传佛教徒没有带来任何利益，而只有更多的不和谐。成千上万的人已经对该禁令发声，要求重建和谐。对于任何心灵修行，是从来就不该有任何禁令的。
詹杜固仁波切
博文网址: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/l/cn/dorje-shugden/the-4th-zhabdrung-rinpoche-of-bhutan-and-dorje-shugden-cn.html
His Eminence Kyabje Dagom Rinpoche’s incarnation is in Lhasa visiting. He is visiting the 350-year-old Trode Khangsar chapel dedicated to Dorje Shugden. He is paying homage to the powerful statue of Dorje Shugden housed in this sacred chapel. Both the chapel and statue of Dorje Shugden were commissioned by His Holiness the 5th Dalai Lama. The Great 5th Dalai Lama also composed a prayer to be recited daily to Dorje Shugden.
Dagom Rinpoche’s previous lives were great masters, scholars and practitioners of Dorje Shugden. Now this new incarnation of Dagom Rinpoche is offering gold on the face of Dorje Shugden in homage and worship to this very sacred statue of Dorje Shugden housed in Lhasa for the last 350 years. This is a very traditional Tibetan method of paying homage to holy images, which is by offering gold with prayers.
The Tibetan leadership wrongly says if you practise Dorje Shugden you will take rebirth into the three lower realms. Hundreds of lamas from the Sakya, Kagyu and Gelugpa schools of Buddhism have practised Dorje Shugden and their incarnations returned. Many of the incarnations are recognised by His Holiness the Dalai Lama himself. So this shows if you practise Dorje Shugden, only benefits come and no harm will come. The very fact Dagom Rinpoche’s incarnation is back, is clear evidence that Dorje Shugden’s practice is beneficial.
May Dagom Rinpoche’s current incarnation live a very long life.
Tsem Rinpoche
https://www.tsemrinpoche.com
YouTube High resolution video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=THbGknXcLbo
Trode Khangsar – A 400 year old Dorje Shugden Chapel in Lhasa:
https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=92148[/color]
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尊贵的扎贡仁波切的现任转世正在拜访拉萨。他拜访了一座供奉给多杰雄登并且拥有350年历史的护法殿”布旦康萨”。他在向这座神圣护法殿里的强大多杰雄登像顶礼。该座护法殿和多杰雄登圣像是由第五世达赖喇嘛指示而造的。伟大的第五世达赖喇嘛也亲笔撰写了多杰雄登的每日祈愿文。
扎贡仁波切的前几世都是伟大的上师，学者兼多杰雄登的修持者。现在扎贡仁波切的现任转世在为这尊已经安奉在拉萨350年并且非常神圣的多杰雄登圣像的脸上供养金漆，以示顶礼和膜拜。这种供养金并祈愿的做法是西藏为圣像顶礼非常传统的做法。
流亡藏人领袖们说如果你修持多杰雄登就将投生三恶道，那是错误的。佛教派系——萨迦派、噶举派、格鲁派的上百名喇嘛们都修持了多杰雄登，而且他们也都转世回来了，而其中有很多转世还是达赖喇嘛亲自认证的。这明显显示了如果你修持多杰雄登，是百利无一弊的。扎贡仁波切转世回来了，就已经是很确凿的证据显示多杰雄登的修持是有利的。
愿今世的扎贡仁波切健康长寿。
詹杜固仁波切
blog.sina.com.cn/zhandugu
YouTube高清视频- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=THbGknXcLbo
拉萨400年历史的多杰雄登护法殿—布旦康萨- https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=92148
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
The Library of Tibetan Works and Archives is in Dharamsala, which is broken into two parts. Upper Dharamsala is where the Dalai Lama’s palace is located with his audience room and main prayer hall. It is also the location of the Dialectics School, Gaden Shartse’s guesthouse, restaurants, tourist hotels and main tourist areas.
A short ride down takes you to the lower part of Dharamsala where the Tibetan government is located. It is the location of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile, Nechung monastery, the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, the Tibetan arts centre…it’s all in one area. And the reason why it’s split into upper and lower Dharamsala is because the area is mountainous.
The Library of Tibetan Works and Archives was established by the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government to preserve all the ancient texts – both secular and spiritual – of Tibet and in the process, translate them into various languages like English. This book, Overview of Buddhist Tantra, by Panchen Sonam Drakpa was one of the books translated into English. What’s very interesting is that the book very clearly says that Panchen Sonam Drakpa’s previous life is Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen, one of the five main disciples of Lama Tsongkhapa. It also says that after that, he was Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen.
So the book is basically saying that Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen, Panchen Sonam Drakpa and Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen – the three Drakpas – are of the same mindstream.
Now that’s very peculiar because if Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen’s previous life is Panchen Sonam Drakpa, the renowned composer of 45 volumes of Dharma texts, the abbot of three monasteries AND the 15th Gaden Tripa, the holder of Lama Tsongkhapa’s throne…if that’s the case, how can Panchen Sonam Drakpa take rebirth as Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen and become an evil spirit and have a negative mind?
Prior to Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen, he was Panchen Sonam Drakpa and before that, he was Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen, a heart disciple of Lama Tsongkhapa. How can a heart disciple of Lama Tsongkhapa reincarnate as the erudite master Panchen Sonam Drakpa, and then die and reincarnate as Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen…and then Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen, due to a bad and negative prayer, become the evil spirit Dorje Shugden? How is that possible? Logically, it’s not.
What’s incredible is that all of this was printed by the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives under the Dalai Lama’s guidance. They contradict themselves because on one hand, the Tibetan leaders say Dorje Shugden is an evil spirit. On the other hand they’re printing a book saying that Panchen Sonam Drakpa, whose later incarnation became Dorje Shugden, is of this illustrious mindstream.
So how can the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, which is under the auspices of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government, print the translation of a book composed by the previous incarnation of a so-called evil spirit? How can they then say in the book that Panchen Sonam Drakpa’s previous life is Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen, and his next life was Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen?
Prior to the Dorje Shugden ban and controversy, everyone in Tibet knew that Dorje Shugden is Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen, that Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen is Panchen Sonam Drakpa, and that Panchen Sonam Drakpa is Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen. The three Drakpas, they are one mindstream emanating again and again to benefit other beings.
And as we all know, Tulku Drakpa Gyaltsen became Dorje Shugden so it totally doesn’t make sense to call him an evil spirit, then highlight all of his previous lives as erudite masters, and publish all of this information under their own library. So you can see the contradictions. You can read all of this for yourself in Overview of Buddhist Tantra, which was printed by the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives.
—–
OVERVIEW OF BUDDHIST TANTRA
GENERAL PRESENTATION OF THE CLASSES OF TANTRA,
CAPTIVATING THE MINDS OF THE FORTUNATE ONES
rgyud sde spyi’i rnam par bzhag pa
skal bzang gi yid ‘phrog ces bya ba bzhugs so
BY
PANCHEN SONAM DRAGPA
(Pan-chen bSod-nams grags-pa, 1478-1554)
O Choje Sonam Dragpa Pel! (Chos-rje bSod-nams grags-pa-dpal!)
In the vast expanse of Your bodhi-mind,
The mind that the Buddhas have lauded for as many as
one hundred times,
You have developed “merit” shining like the sun.
Through Your skill in learning, debate and writing,
As illuminating as one hundred thousand sun rays,
You have developed in You a complete knowledge of
the entire sutras and tantras,
Resembling a garden of flowers in full bloom.
The power of Your speech is like the sun;
The fame of your name has reached the three realms of
this world.
O Sonam Dragpa, the teacher of teachers!
I bow down at your feet.
In the vast garden of Your great teachings,
The intelligent young people gather for
The ‘six ultimates’ and the ‘four modes of transmission,’
Just as they are attracted to
The one hundred thousand types of nectar
Dripping from a flower of one hundred petals.
May I be able to experience
The taste of the secret tantra!
Panchen Choje Sonam Dragpa Pel (Panchen Chos-rje bSod-nams grags-pa-dpal), the holder of sutra and Vajrayana teachings, was a master whose outstanding learning and spiritual accomplishments are well known by all the learned ones in Tibet. His first incarnation came in the form of one of the five prestigious disciples of Lord Tsongkhapa (Tsong-kha-pa) and became known as Vinaya Holder (Dulzin) Dragpa Gyaltsen (Gragspa rgyal-mtshan). Then came Panchen Sonam Dragpa Pel (Panchen bSod-nams grags-pa-dpal), the author of the present text. The next was Nagri Tulku Dragpa Gyaltsen (mNga’-ris sPrul-sku Grags-pa rgyal-mtshan). In this way, a line of his incarnations, each with the Dragpa (gragspa) surname, followed successively.
Panchen Sonam Dragpa Pel (Panchen bSod-nams grags-pa-dpal) was born in the 14th century in Tsetang (rTsed-thang) in the Lhoka (Lho-kha) region of Central Tibet. He entered the great seat of learning, Sera Thekchenling (Se-ra theg-chen-gling) monastic university, where he became the personal disciple of spiritual master Donyo Dangden (Dhon-yod dang-ldan) and His Holiness the Second Dalai Lama Gedun Gyatso (dGe-‘dun rgya-mtsho). Under them, he studied the entire teachings of sutra, tantra and their commentaries, and became known for his outstanding learning. He also received from them the empowerments, reading transmissions, guides and instructions of the entire body of spiritual training. On becoming the fully blessed one, the Dalai Lama appointed him the abbot of the Loseling (Blo-gsalgling) college, one of the four colleges of Drepung (‘Bras-dpung)- the most prestigious monastic university in Tibet before 1959, with over 10,000 monks on its register. He continued to be the abbot of this college for the next six years; and after him the tenure for each of his successors in this position was fixed for a period of six years, a rule that is followed even today.
He was then appointed the head of the Gelugpa (dGe-lugs-pa) order, the throne holder of Gaden (dGa’-ldan), thus becoming the 15th regent of Lord Tsongkhapa (Tsong-khapa), the second Buddha. In his eulogy to him, Khedrub Gelek Pelsang (mKhas-grub dGe-legs dpal- bzang) says:
O Lama, the second successor of the Unsubduable One,
The regent of the Lord of Dharma,
You are the one who made the virtuous qualities thrive;
You are the one who ascended to the golden throne uplifted
by the fearless lions.
May Your success thrive forever!
He continued to be the throne holder for the next seven years, during which time he promoted the spread of Lord Tsongkhapa’s (Tsong-kha-pa) precious teachings, the Gelug (dGe-lugs) tradition, across the land in all directions. He also paid special attention to the practice of monastic rules and the learning and meditation of Buddhism in the monasteries such as Sera (Se-ra), Drepung (‘Bras-spungs), Kyomolung (sKyo-mo-lung), Phagmo Chode (Phag-mo chos-sde), Nyeding (Nye-sdings), Ödna (’Od-sna) and Chöde Rinchen (Chos-sde rin-chen) etc. and improved them to a great extent. He taught the Third Dalai Lama Sonam Gyatso (bSod-nams rGya-mtsho) as the latter’s spiritual master. It was from him that the Dalai Lama received the name Sonam (bSod-nams).
His contributions in the literary field are enormous; and, indeed, they are the most valuable of all his contributions. Tsongkhapa (Tsong-kha-pa) has rightly said:
Of all one’s deeds,
The ‘deeds of speech’ are the most valuable.
Panchen Sonam Dragpa Pel (Panchen bSod-nams grags-pa-dpal) was a person with an extraordinary talent for teaching, debate and writing. In his colophon to Bu mey chi don zab don sel wey dron mey (dBu ma’i spyi don zab don gsal ba’i sgron me), he wrote:
In the field of teaching, I am [next to none!] Knowing that
I would outdo them in this field, Arya Asanga and his
brother transmigrated into another realm.
In the field of debate, I am [next to none!] Knowing that
I would find out the areas they had contradicted and
that I would examine them and put forth my arguments,
the logician Dignaga (Digh-naga) and Dharmakirti tactfully
bypassed me.
In the field of writing, I am [next to none!] [In my eyes,]
Arya-sura was just good at spreading the works, which
are like ‘disputes~ between an insect and a field.’
I am the learned man. Peerless in the field of teaching,
debate and writing!
For some this passage might sound utterly nonsensical, but the most learned master of our age, the talented teacher, logician and writer, the late tutor to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Yongdzin Trijang Dorjechang (Yongs-‘dzin Khri-byang rDorje-‘Chang), said: “Now, some people of our time, who consider themselves learned scholars, think that this is utter nonsense; but they are wrong.”
Panchen Sonam Dragpa Pel (Panchen bSod-nams grags-pa-dpal) wrote over 45 volumes of books dealing with many different subjects, such as the commentaries on the sutras and tantras, the saddhana manuals of the tutelary deities, history, religious history and so forth. Among these, one that is very important for all who wish to learn and meditate on the path-of the practical aspect of Buddhism in general and that of Vajrayana in particular is the Leg shey gyu de chi nam par shagpa kelsang gi yi trod (Legs bshad rgyud sde spyi’i rnam par bzhag pa skal bzang gi yid ‘phrod). In this book, he has explained precisely how the four tantras differ from one another. He has also fully described the stages of the two spontaneous path practices of the Vajrayana tradition, dealing with the ‘six ultimates’ and the ‘four modes of transmission’, thus interpreting without mistake the intention of Adhi-Buddha Vajradhara.
May the reprint of this text, which the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives is publishing herewith, bring peace and happiness in this world!
Prof. Nawang Jinpa
St. Joseph’s College
Darjeeling
January 24 1996
” It is such a pity that because of the Dorje Shugden ban, people like me get distracted from knowing this Dharma master beyond the controversy. It is a great loss that his insightful and generous teachings conveyed in a relatable manner are lost in the fight between pro-Dorje Shugden and pro-Dalai Lama groups.”
This is a very good summary of why Dorje Shugden ban is a damaging move instead of a beneficial one. First of all, it is banning a beneficial practice that has a good history of 400 years. Many high lamas from various sects can prove to us that this practice is a genuine practice that came from Tushita heaven.
The most damaging point of the ban is that it will limit the number of people that can make a connection with Dorje Shugden. He is the most suitable protector of our time because of his karma is the closest to us. He is able to lend us help very quickly and effectively. Imagine the thousands and millions of people that lost their chance to make the connection with this great protector because of the ban. That is very sad indeed.
We are indeed very fortunate that we have religious freedom down here where we can hold our heads up and says we are Buddhist living in a Muslim country. The Dorje Shugden ban has created disharmaony, hardship, social problems and so forth to many practitioners. Buddhism is a peaceful religion which should be upheld by the practitioners and not mixing with politics. With Politics, the lines becomes blurred and people’s greed becomes apparent. Instead of working for the betterment of the people, the CTA is dividing its people and causing hurt and hardship.Thank you Rinpoche and Li Kheng for good write up ???
Be blessed with these rare videos featuring explanation and advice about Dorje Shugden practice by His Holiness Kyabje Zong Rinpoche in his own voice. The teaching was requested by Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen, one of the earliest masters who taught Tibetan Buddhism in the West.
Video 1: H.H. Kyabje Zong Rinpoche Explains Dorje Shugden Initiation and Benefits (With English Subtitles)
Kyabje Zong Rinpoche was an erudite scholar, ritual master and practitioner of the highest degree from Tibet. At the request of Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen, one of the pioneers who taught Tibetan Buddhism in America, Kyabje Zong Rinpoche gives clear explanation and advice about the life-entrustment initiation of Dorje Shugden and how to go about the practice and get the maximum benefits in this video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzFMvlxAqtc&feature=youtu.be
Video 2: H.H. Kyabje Zong Rinpoche speaks on the History and Lineage of Dorje Shugden (With English Subtitles)
In this video, an erudite scholar, ritual master and practitioner of the highest degree from Tibet, Kyabje Zong Rinpoche talks about the incarnation lineage of Dorje Shugden and how the practice arose, with examples of Dorje Shugden’s previous lives that reveal his powerful spiritual attainments and contributions. This very rare teaching was given at the request of Kyabje Zong Rinpoche’s student, Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen, one of the pioneers who taught Buddhism in the West to many disciples since the 1970s.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sIzKSJgK618&feature=youtu.be
For more information: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/kyabje-zong-rinpoches-advice-on-dorje-shugdens-practice.html
His Holiness the 10th Panchen Lama
Tibetans commonly refer to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and His Holiness 10th Panchen Lama as the “sun and moon” of Tibetan Buddhism. They are the center of Tibetan Buddhist civilization, which draws to its sphere of influence millions of non-Tibetan practitioners. The Panchen Lama’s incarnation line began with the 16th abbot of Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen (1570 – 1662). He was bestowed the title of Panchen Lama by His Holiness the 5th Dalai Lama after being declared as an emanation of Amitabha.
After being given the title, his three previous incarnations were posthumously also bestowed the title, making Lobsang Chokyi Gyeltsen the 4th Panchen Lama. He became a teacher to many Tibetans, Bhutanese and Mongolian religious figures, including His Holiness the 4th and 5th Dalai Lamas, and the 1st Jetsun Dampa of Mongolia. A prolific author, Chokyi Gyeltsen is credited with over a hundred compositions, including a number of commentaries and ritual texts that remain central in the Gelukpa tradition today. Along with his role as a teacher of the Dharma, the Panchen Lamas are usually responsible for the recognition of the rebirths of the Dalai Lamas, and vice versa.
The 10th Panchen Lama, Lobsang Trinley Lhundrub Chokyi Gyeltsen (19 February 1938 – 28 January 1989) continued both the spiritual and political roles of his predecessors. His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, his contemporary, was even heard to say and echo the Panchen Lama’s own words that the Dalai Lama would safeguard Tibet from the outside while the Panchen Lama would safeguard Tibet from the inside, as he never left Tibet after the political troubles of 1959. He was truly loved by the Tibetans, all the way until his passing. When he taught, thousands of people would attend, not only from his own Gelug lineage, but masters and practitioners from all traditions of Tibetan Buddhism.
At his sprawling monastery of Tashi Lhunpo, he has a special chapel specifically dedicated to Dorje Shugden, where prayers and rituals are performed on a daily basis. In his great omniscience the Panchen Lama held Dorje Shugden as the principal Dharma protector of the monastery. He also personally propitiated Dorje Shugden among other Dharma protectors, and even wrote extensive prayers and rituals to Dorje Shugden. These rituals and prayers are contained within his ‘sung bum’ or collected works, which are provided here. As such a great lama, with an erudite and clear understanding of the Buddhist scriptures, a teacher to millions in both Tibet and China, from an established incarnation line and an emanation of the Buddha Amitabha, he could not be mistaken about his practice of Dorje Shugden.
His Holiness 10th Panchen Lama is known for his composition of commentaries and practice texts that are still in use by contemporary Buddhist practitioners both in Tibet and across the world. One of these is a powerful ritual composition propitiating the compassionate Dorje Shugden.
Upon the request by Acharya Lobsang Jangchub to compose a shorter version of the prayer (sadhana) for the exhortation of activities of Dorje Shugden, Panchen Lama immediately composed an abbreviate form of Dorje Shugden’s Kangsol. This text is entitled “Manjunatha’s (Tsongkapa) Lineage protector Dorje Shugden and five forms wrathful propitiations and confessional prayers and fulfilment of activities rites” or “Melodious sound of Accomplishment of the Four Activities” for short. Once the prayers were completed, he had signs and strong feelings that Dorje Shugden has been working hard to protect the Buddhadharma in general and the lineage of Lama Tsongkhapa specifically.
Mirroring the abilities of one of his earlier incarnations, Khedrub Je, a disciple of Lama Tsongkhapa and master of both sutra and tantra, the Panchen Lama used his compositional skill and poetic prowess to create a masterful sadhana. Worthy of note is a praise in which the first letter of each verse is a Tibetan vowel. Such compositions are rarely seen, and have historically only been used when propitiating senior Dharma protectors such as Palden Lhamo and Kalarupa.
The Panchen Lama also stated that while composing the Dorje Shugden sadhana (prayers) he was filled with a sense of happiness and bliss. He ends the composition with not only his official title but his ordination name, Tenzin Trinley Jigme Choje Wangchuk, endorsing the validity of his work. He composed the sadhana in his own Tashi Lhunpo monastery while in the Hall of Clear Light and Bliss.
See the Panchen Lama’s writings and download: https://bit.ly/2KIfeXb
For the first time available, Dorje Shugden and his entourage of 32 assistants of his mandala.
Dorje Shugden is a powerful protector deity who is also an emanation of Manjushri, a wisdom bestowing Buddha. Therefore, he has great ability to help us to progress further on the spiritual path. He does this by helping us to overcome obstacles and problems for the modern individual.
Due to his enlightened nature, Dorje Shugden is able to manifest 32 deities and within the same abode resides Setrap and Kache Marpo:-
1. 5 Dorje Shugden families or emanations. They consists of the following:-
– Dulzin Dorje Shugden, which performs activities to eliminate inner and outer obstacles.
– Shize, which performs activities to pacify all illnesses and disease.
– Gyenze, which performs activities to increase all desirable material and spiritual wealth.
– Wangze, which performs activities to control difficult people and circumstances.
– Trakze, which performs activities to wrathfully eliminate all insurmountable obstacles and life-threatening situations.
2. 9 Mothers. They represent protection of the five senses and developing control of the four elements. These are all attributes that signify their ability to assist tantric practitioners with their higher meditations.
3. 8 Guiding Monks. They represent the Eight Great Bodhisattvas (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
Sakya tradition’s thangka of Dorje Shugden sitting on a throne within his palace with his four emanations and high Sakya Lamas nearby. Tsem Rinpoche
Antique Pelden Lhamo thangka with sacred Dorje Shugden at the bottom right. Can see Tsongkapa and Guru Rinpoche on the top also. Beautiful and holy.
Great message every Tibetan especially must read!
Thank you Li Kheng for this well written article on Dorje Shugden practice and the ban on the practice. You have written in a simple way yet with depth. The article starts with the teaching of Vajrayogini of the precious teachings of great master Geshe Kelsang Gyatso (and many more other masters) not able to reach the mass or being accessed by the mass because of the Dorje Shugden ban and various smear campaigns by Tibetan leadership against great masters who practice Dorje Shugden.
What she said is so true. The ban actually do lots of damage and cause so much sufferings than one can see it now. It actually damaged and damaging the Gelug lineage. Even not about Gelug lineage, the mass who are looking for wisdom of daily life will be deprived from the opportunity/rights as well.
I have the similiar experience when Li Kheng shares about how she feels and views about the prayer call in mosque after listening to the teachings of H.E. Tsem Rinpoche. I learned to put in more thoughts and be more open when encountering with something new that looks “weird” or abnormal” from my experience. Tsem Rinpoche will always shares news and articles from different lineages, cultures and faith. I learned quite a lot about witchcraft and some Indian or South American belief for example after reading Rinpoche’s blog articles. Some of the practices or culture customs look “dangerous”, “scrary” or “disgusting”, in fact view all things we are not familiar with, with closed mind is much more “dangerous” and “scrary”.
Apart from teachings and articles on Dorje Shugden practice, the wide variety & diversity of sharing or teachings shared on Rinpoche’s blog, Twitter, Youtube and Facebook, for so many years consistently, actually sending one very importat message about Tsem Rinpoche – yes he is a Dorje Shugden master, but he is never a person with sectarian mindset, in fact he is practitioner with acceptance, respect and open heart. He shares good deeds of people from different national, cultures, lineages and faith. When comes to ban on Dorje Shugden practice, he is adamant, he speaks up – not because he wants fame, but he experienced and witnessed the damages the ban has done to the lineage, the mind of people, harmony of communities; and sufferings of many who are Dorje Shugden practitioners and non-practitioners. He can always keep silence and does his practice quitely. But he chooses to stand up and speak up. This only shows his courage and his compassion as a Buddhist practitioner and guru.
I hope many who read about this article can share about your thoughts after reading this article. 🙂
Its good to see this comment by ‘Suzy in Hawaii’ on Rinpoche’s YouTube Chanel. It has been 20 years of smear campaign against Dorje Shugden but today people who can think for themselves are beginning to look beyond prejudice to see the goodness of Dorje Shugdenand benefit from it. See what Suzy wrote – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vl-4lIwxph4&t=11s
Not many people and Buddhists included apply the Kalama sutta, when they encounter something that is out of the norm and challenges their normal conventions.
We need to not take things so on the surface. When others say that Dorje Shudgen is an evil spirit and harms Tibetan cause and the Dalai Lama, one does need to check the validity of such statements. for example how can Dalai Lama who is Chenrezig, be harmed by a mere spirit? The 14th Dalai Lama is a qualified Mahayana spiritual teacher, not many things can come close to harming such an individual. Or the Laws of Karma has bee turned on its head.
Trode Khangsar Chapel in Lhasa, TibetOver 400 years ago a great and learned lama Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen was famed in Mongolia, Tibet, Nepal and China for being very saintly and compassionate. He resided in his residence (Zimkhang Gongma Ladrang) in Drepung Monastery. His root guru was H.H. the Omniscient 4th Panchen Lama and his close dharma brother was the 5th Dalai Lama.
The 5th Dalai Lama and Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen had a very close and dharmic relationship and often went to receive teachings together from the 4th Panchen Lama. They were close in age. They both became very learned and well known. During this time, the Dalai Lama was enthroned as a Dharma King of Tibet. But more people went to see Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen for teachings, initiations and divinations. This made the attendants of the 5th Dalai Lama feel threatened that Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen’s fame might usurp the power of the 5th Dalai Lama. So they had a khata forced down his throat. At that moment, Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen dissolved his psychic winds and generated the wish to be a great guardian of Buddha and Tsongkapa’s teachings. As his consciousness dissolved, he entered ‘bardo’ as a dharma protector of the highest order (jikten depey sungma). Many signs were seen throughout Lhasa at this time and the earth was said to have shaken in Lhasa. This event was already predicted to Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen’s previous incarnation when he was one of the 8 main disciples of Lord Tsongkapa the Supreme Master and he served Tsongkapa directly by building Gaden Monastery.
When the 5th Dalai Lama heard what his scheming and power-hungry attendants had done, he was very distressed. He was very sorry Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen was murdered and dishonored as he was a great dharma master. The 5th Dalai Lama composed an apology to Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen. In Lhasa, tens of thousands gathered for the cremation of Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen’s holy body. During the cremation, the 5th Dalai Lama’s apology was read out at which flames spontaneously arose from the body of Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen commencing the cremation. From the body, during cremation, a powerful whirlwind of smoke tunneled into the sky for all to see as this was an indication Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen’s consciousness has arisen as the Dharma Protector Dorje Shugden. The Dharma Protector Setrap immediately recognized this new protector Dorje Shugden and ‘enthroned’ him as a powerful Dharma Protector in the realm of the Buddhas. From this, Setrap and Dorje Shugden are closely connected and very close working hand in hand always. After the cremation, the great 5th Dalai Lama built a Dorje Shugden chapel on the spot the cremation took place and named it Trode Khangsar. The 5th Dalai Lama commissioned the statue of Dorje Shugden in this chapel and had monks installed in the chapel to do continuous propitiations to Dorje Shugden. Trode Khangsar Chapel was a commemoration to Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen who was wronged and also a celebration of his consciousness arising as the World Peace Peace Protector Dorje Shugden.
This Trode Khangsar Chapel still exists now in Lhasa where many make pilgrimages there. It is in good condition and was recently renovated. It is over 400 years old and a testimony to the respect the Great 5th Dalai Lama had to Tulku Drakpa Gyeltsen who arose as Dorje Shugden.
I have visited this holy chapel in Lhasa years back. I’ve never heard of it till I was in Lhasa and by chance, I was told about it which I was happy to visit. I could not find the place but strangely a bunch of pilgrims from Amdo told me they would show me how to get there in Lhasa.
This short video is a short clip of this holy Trode Khangsar Chapel in Lhasa today commemorating Dorje Shugden, built by the great 5th Dalai Lama. The great 5th Dalai Lama even composed a prayer to Dorje Shugden which is still available today and we can recite to invoke the blessings, protection, and assistance of World Peace Protector Dorje Shugden.
Tsem Rinpoche
Read more: Trode Khangsar – A 400-year-old Dorje Shugden Chapel in Lhasa
https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/dorje-shugden/trode-khangsar-%E2%80%93-a-400-year-old-dorje-shugden-chapel-in-lhasa.html
Short video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTybDwTeLAM
__________________________________
The 5th Dalai Lama’s Prayer to Dorje ShugdenHUM
Though unmoving from the sphere of primordial spontaneity,
With wrathful turbulent power, swifter than lightning,
Endowed with heroic courage to judge good and bad,
I invite you with faith, please come to this place!
Robes of a monk, crown adorned with rhinoceros leather hat,
Right hand holds ornate club, left holds a human heart,
Riding various mounts such as nagas and garudas,
Who subdues the mamos of the charnel grounds, praise to you!
Samaya substances, offerings and torma, outer, inner and secret,
Favourite visual offerings and various objects are arranged.
Although, previously, my wishes were a bit dense,
Do not stop your powerful apparitions, I reveal and confess!
Now respectfully praising with body, speech, and mind,
For us, the masters, disciples, benefactors and entourages,
Provide the good and avert the bad!
Bring increase like the waxing moon in spiritual and temporal realms!
Moreover, swiftly accomplishing all wishes,
According to our prayers, bestow the supreme effortlessly!
And like the jewel that bestows all wishes,
Always protect us with the Three Jewels!
From: http://www.dorjeshugden.org/practice/the-5th-dalai-lamas-prayer-to-dorje-shugden
Tibetan prayer from: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/dorje-shugden/the-14th-dalai-lamas-prayer-to-dorje-shugden.html
Thank you Li Kheng for sharing this beautiful article.
We are indeed very lucky that we have religious freedom in our country. The Dorje Shugden ban has created disharmaony , hardship , social problems and so forth to many practitioners.
This is the time of change and like the saying goes, strike while the iron is still hot: the ban must end now for humanity, for hope and for a future well said by Li Kheng.Do hope H.H. Dalai Lama will end this ban soon.Thanks for updating so that more people are aware the sufferings cause by Dorje shugden ban.
Thank you Li Kheng for updating about Dorje shugden ban and problems people facing due to that. May ban ended soon! _/\_
Thank you Li Kheng for this article, we are indeed very fortunate that we have spiritual freedom down here where we can hold our heads up and says we are Buddhist living in a Muslim country. While in Dharamsala, Tibet and many parts elsewhere Dorje Shudgen practitioners are been sidelined, blamed, abused and degraded in society. It is very sad to see that some Buddhist are using religion platform mixing it with politics and turning it into a shameful, disgraceful mankind act.
It is from the inside of a political play at CTA that turns this matter into a circus where many laughed at us. Buddhism have always been known and regarded as a peaceful religion but now it has all turned ugly with all that is happening currently with the segregation. It has now turned into ” I am right, you are wrong” trust has been compromised, faith destroyed, beliefs crumpled and trampled upon like a discarded piece of paper.
Why have they come to this? I would view it as power play, greed, indoctrination, false oracle advice which lead many at CTA into confusion leading to a mismanaged administration and failure to set its objectives right. While finding no solution to the mass confusion self created they have to find some scapegoat and Dorje Shudgen is the unfortunate recipient of their unholy decision.
We can only pray and hope that all these will end soon and meanwhile we will protect sanctity of Dorje Shudgen and educate those who who are vulnerable.
Thank you Phng Li Kheng for sharing this much-needed words against the Shugden ban that has created lots of social problems. May the ban be liffted soon _()_
How can a practice that is being practiced for centuries be overturned overnight and caused people to hate and hurt each other. Before the DS ban, people were living in harmony and free to practice what they like. However, when the Dalai Lama imposed the ban, families fight against each other, friends become enemies and violence became a normality.
Buddhism is a peaceful religion which should be upheld by the practitioners and not mixing with politics. With Politics, the lines becomes blurred and people’s greed becomes apparent. Instead of working for the betterment of the people, the CTA is dividing its people and causing hurt and hardship.
I agree with Li Kheng that we should celebrate the differences in each of us so that we learn from each other and become more diverse.
Thank you Li Kheng for this write up on Dorje Shugden ban . It is indeed very true for us as a Malaysian who live in such a harmonious country we do not really feel how if we as a chinese being discriminated because we are live together in peace for many generations.Hence this ban to be enforce by the CTA is not something that I can accept and is very wrong to discriminate people who are Dorje Shugden practitioner.
With so much request for His Holiness Dalai Lama and the Central Tibetan Administration to lift the ban on Dorje Shugden to give religious freedom, there still hasn’t been a reach out by the Tibetan leadership to address this impending cry for equality.
To simply ban a practice, and segregate a community where the fundamental practice of guru devotion is so vital, this ban has literally forced many to break their samaya with their gurus, many of whom, I believe are students of Trijang RInpoche, a DS practitioner. Since many have practiced DS, and forced to give up or face expulsion from the monastery or community, the effect of the ban has created a tidal wave of broken samayas, which perhaps has impacted the works and lives of the Tibetan Leadership in ways beyond one could imagine, because they are in effect supporting and encouraging people to break their samayas.
There is no logic in the ban:
1. Whatever it is, the choice and freedom should be entirely up to us to practice.
2. And if we do choose to practice, we should not be at the end of the abuse rod for it. We should not be segregated, discriminated, denied from attending Dalai Lama’s teachings, or receiving medical care and so forth.
3. Many lamas have practiced DS for lifetimes, and their incarnations are back. IF DS was a bad practice, these lamas would lose their attainments and abilities, and would not be able to incarnate back. But Trijang Rinpoche, a DS lama, is back and has been recognized in this life.
4. DOrje Shugden has been practiced for 600 years, and even the 5th and 13th Dalai Lama wrote praises to Dorje Shugden.
5. How can HHDL who had practiced DS in the earlier parts of his life, suddenly say that DS is bad, and this practice came from his tutors who were both DS practitioners. It is not logical that, some teachings/practices given by the tutors are right, and some are wrong. If the basis of the teachings is at fault, then ALL teachings are at fault, which would mean everything that HHDL teaches is also at fault. Which cannot be.
There are more illogical reasons to the ban. But besides that, being segregated and discriminated for our choice of practice is wrong.
Thank you for this post, Li Kheng.
Carmen
总的来说，这篇文章道尽了自嘉瓦仁波切下了禁令过后，凡是雄登的修持者都在各个程度上遭受迫害，挤压，隔离甚至人身攻击。最不可原谅的是藏人行政中央逼人们毁坏三昧耶，导致他们本身及他们的根本上师受到伤害。除此之外，藏人行政中央更威逼寺院的领导人犯下无间罪，在僧伽之间造下离间罪，并且逼使这么多僧人参与这样的离间当中。这种煽动各种族之间的小动作，还有对各个修持多杰雄登高僧大德的百般刁难与限制，阻碍佛法的增长，严重破坏佛陀教诲的传承及延续性。如果他们是位佛教徒，应该了解破坏佛法传承的所带来的恶业。这个禁令不早日解除，我们雄登修持者将不会停止发声，我们势必要嘉瓦仁波切听到我们的声音，然后解除此禁令！
This such a well written article
When I first came to know about this ban and how the this controversy has affected the Tibetan community all across, I was really shun off by the action of the Tibetan Leadership ie Central Tibetan Administration (CTA)
As a leader or a government, you are suppose to UNITE the people especially more so if you are exile. But in this case, their action has proven that they have succeeded in causing friction/segregation amongst the Tibetans successfully. Especially with the Shugden controversy. As Tibetan Leadership, the biggest asset to them is actually the Lamas cause these are the very people who are renown in spreading Tibetan Buddhism through majority of the countries around the world. Unfortunately, they are not. Instead they are staining and tarnishing their names. An example is Penpa Tsering, the speaker of the Tibetan Parliament in a public talk has put down and disgrace Pabongka Rinpoche’s name who is the commentator of the Liberation In Palm of your Hands (Lamrin) ……How ridiculous is that? *Please see the video*
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=phsFHUqWftM
“The incredible danger of the Dorje Shugden ban is that it is an “enemy” that is spreading the poison from within” – and this is so true.
Thank you Li Kheng for sharing with us how the ban on Dorje Shugden has caused sufferings to many Tibentans and Dorje Shugden lamas. Many people ask why am I so concerned of the ban when I am not a Tibetan and I do not face any discrimination here in Malaysia? The answer is simple, as long as there is a ban on Dorje Shugden practice, many highly attained Dorje Shugden lamas will not be able to spread Dharma to as many people as possible. We are risked to lose some very authentic lineage because of the people are doubtful of the lama due to the ban. Besides, Dorje Shugden really can benefit people, since I am here to practice and develop compassion, I should defend and work towards lifting the ban. It will be very selfish to close one eye to do Dorje Shugden practice quietly and see our fellow Tibetan Dharma brother and sister suffer.
Thank you Li Kheng for the article.
This article highlighted the difficulties of Dorje Shugden practitioner are facing under the unethical Dorje Shugden ban.
I would like to request H.H. Dalai Lama to end this unethical ban, and please end the sufferings of the Dorje Shugden practitioners.
Thank you
谢谢您的分享
在读完这个帖子后，我十分赞成，宗教是应该和平共处而不是制造出伤害的，就马来西亚的例子举的非常贴切，这这片土地上有不同的宗教存在着，但是彼此包容并互相尊重，然而同样传承的格鲁派，曾经辉煌的把佛法弘扬十方的格鲁派（黄教），如今却因为一位“护法”而造就了寺院的分裂，家庭破裂，朋友间反目成仇，多少人因为这多级雄登的禁令，而遭受到伤害，即使生病，也因为“禁令”的缘故而不被医院接受，这不是很残忍吗？
倘若我们撇开“宗教”或“护法”这个名词，倘若一般人因为莫一些“禁令”，比如以前的奴隶制度等，我们都会觉得倘若任何人被伤害，攻击，即使生命垂危也不能就医，妻离子散，我们都会觉得只是不人道的吧？
那么为何因为一位“护法”，大家非得要不断的攻击所有修持者呢？多杰雄登护法修持者，与没有修持多杰雄登护法者，大家和平的共处，彼此不强迫谁放弃谁本身所坚持的修持法门，并和平共处，那不是很好吗？
我们常祈愿天下太平，那么我们就应该彼此尊重彼此，彼此不伤害彼此，那么我们身为佛教徒，每天所祈愿的“天下太平和谐”才会发生呀，倘若我们自己本身，不要因为别人“修持”什么而让自己的心中充满仇恨（这与佛法相违）不要因为别人“修持”什么而失去了自己的菩提心，不要因为别人“修持”什么而参与评论与攻击他们，因为大家必须要明白，宗教是提倡和平的，最重要的一点是，他人“修持”什么自有他一定的因缘，只是他没有伤害你，没有攻击你，没有毁谤你，那么你又何必..参与伤害其他的行列呢？
ThankYou谢谢
Jerry Sito
Dear Li Kheng
Thank you for sharing your thoughts on the Dorje Shugden ban. Enjoyed reading all your replies too.
Thank you for appealing strongly for the removal of the ban on Dorje Shugden. I agree that it is extremely crucial for this ban to come down quickly as many sufferings arose from this ban. The ban should also be removed both for the sake of the DS practitioners who are being persecuted plus the persecutors who collect heavy negative karma from their actions.
May we all put our heart and soul together to end this ban for the benefit of all beings .
Thank you Li Kheng. This post for which you have given a very interesting yet apt title ,the “United Colors of Spirituality”, is powerful in its strong advocacy of “religious freedom and harmony” over “intolerance and schism”.
Where there is needless suffering, resulting from the withdrawal of religious freedom, a scenario , which is becoming less and less acceptable in a world that is increasingly recognizing basic human rights (like the right to practice one’s religion freely), we cannot shut our eyes and pretend it is not there.
Where there is suffering like the suffering of Shugden followers and practitioners because of a ban on it. We have to speak up for them. THERE IS A BAN as the videos presented here shows. THE BAN IS CAUSING SUFFERING as the evidence is presented clearly here.
The reasons given for the ban have been refuted again and again with clear logical reasons.
Why is there still a denial of peaceful negotiations to lift the ban?
Thanks Li Kheng for sharing such a good and informative article.Dorje Shugden Ban really bring so many harms to the Dorje Shugden(DS) practitioners .This ban really show a bad impression about Tibetan Buddhism to outsiders who are totally don’t know the real story behind.The protest between non DS and DS practitioners are shown on media. Of course many people will stand on pro Dalai Lama due to Dalai Lama’s fame.
We as Tsem Rinpoche disciples , we have the responsibility to promote DS practice and explain the real story of DS . Social media works must be done as many as possible to educate more people about DS.Practice DS is infallible .
I am really appreciate the Rinpoche’s teams to come out with http://www.dorjeshugden.org to let more people know about DS. I wish the ban will lifted soon and more sentient beings can get benefit on practice DS .
Jason
Thank you Jason for your comment! You are right, the ban has a very negative effect on Buddhism as a whole and has a negative influence of people’s faith. This is the last thing we need now because the public are already so doubtful about schools of faith in general.
It would be such a pity if people “give up” on Buddhism and Dorje Shugden because they are two extremely effective protections and blessings that can help people during this degenerate age. If we open our eyes, we will see so much suffering. We can also see that suffering is not completely resolved by material wealth because rich people also suffer, only differently. A connection to Dorje Shugden and the Dharma can give peace and sense of sanctity which is much needed.
This is why Rinpoche advocates for the ban to be lifted so strongly. It goes way beyond one practice or one school of faith. It is about humanity as a whole and our relationship with our higher state of mind and our divine within,
Dear Li Kheng,
You have a really good article here and the title is very catchy and a little light-hearted although the topic is not. This Dorje Shugden ban has been going on for way too long and has taken a told on all of us, including the great lamas who continue to uphold the lineage and are not afraid to express and reveal their practice of Dorje Shugden.
It’s just too bad that the ban has gone on this long and we really need more exposure on this matter and good pressure for the Tibetan leadership to relinquish this damaging ban. Everyone seems to be on the losing end of the battle and despite all this damage on both sides to varying degrees. There doesn’t seem to be any respite to this whole issue.
I am not psychic and I just don’t seem to see how it will end. The most logical conclusion to this saga would be if the Dalai Lama passes into clear light without issuing a statement to withdraw the ban would only serve to prolong the ban unnecessarily. I do hope the end would come sooner than later.
Pastor David, I cannot agree with you more. Division, disharmony, discrimination, destruction can never benefit anyone. Even if someone seem to have benefitted superficially, the ultimate result will be harmful. Take a look at history.
The most damaging result of war is the loss of humanity. Speak to veterans who went through hell and back as they stared death in the eye…as they became executors of death. Their soul is permanently broken.
This is what is happening to the lay community of Tibetans in exile. As the CTA does not exist as a government, they do not have an army. So, who executes all these acts of war? Lay men and women who are untrained, uneducated and unexposed. What becomes of their minds? Violence becomes OK. Killing becomes OK. Discrimination becomes OK. Watching someone lose everything for an invalid reason becomes OK.
This is the true loss: a society that is OK with suffering, injustice and invasion of human dignity. When all that makes us human is loss, what is left?
A beautifully written article to illustrate the harmonious results of acceptance, mindfulness, care, compassion and loving kindness (to name a few) which are the tenets of all great religions of the world in the 21st century.
This article also pointedly shows the chaos which results from the destruction of religious freedom by representatives of the Dalai Lama. Also how such a non violent religion like Buddhism can be used to distort the meaning of compassion and wisdom by a Ban on the worship to a Buddha Protector, Dorje Shugden.
Yes, may the violence, discrimination, segregation be replaced once again with love, wisdom, tolerance and harmony.
May the profound teachings of great masters like Geshe Kelsang Gyatso shine through all the distractions.
Thank you Li Kheng for this article. It clearly shows that the ban has gone a long way and people have not been doing enough to speak up for the Tibetans that practice Dorje Shugden or just Dorje Shugden practitioners in general.
It is unfair for a group of people that are getting the discrimination due to their religious faith. How is it that it is correct for some people to practice a certain religion, yet wrong for another group to do the same? It makes no logic as we are just practising a religion and no one should be discriminated based on that fact.
How will it be an advice when people are being discriminated, hurt and attacked because of their choice of religious practice. It is not fair and should never be the case.
However, when we look at another angle, through the ban it has brought more people to know who Dorje Shugden is. With this, it might also be a divine play that the high lamas and Buddhas are manifesting in our time of degeneration.
It is true that there is a ban and this ban is on that suppress the Dorje Shugden practice that has a long history proven to be beneficial. This ban is not an act that goes according to the Buddhist teachings but one that ignores humanity, diversity, harmony, peace; freedom of speech, practice, choice etc. This ban started as an advice and still, it is said to be an advice, but the reactions and actions that follow are showing the clear sign of the existence of a ban.
A ban happens when people are prohibited from something and punishment in the form of fine, jail, deportation etc. will follow when one insisted on not following it. In India where the Tibetans-in-exile is, the lay Dorje Shugden practitioners who insist on keeping their Dorje Shugden practice are also banned from employment and education opportunities, medical needs, travel document application etc. For the ordained, they are not allowed to travel, to raise funds, to see their teachers, so that the lineage that they carry will be eliminated.
This ban is one that bring about serious consequences which will eliminate the Dorje Shugden lineage forever. We require everyone’s help in spreading the truth about this ban, the benefits of the Dorje Shugden practice so that the ban will be lifted, discrimination will end and humanity will once be practiced again.
Dear Li Kheng,
I never imagined that in Buddhism there could happen something like this. It is a teaching about right conduct, kindness, acceptance and all positiv qualities. A ban of a 400 year old practice is kind of unrealistic. How come Dorje Shugden is beneficial for so long and now he is used in a political way.
Indeed, the pain and suffering Dorje Shugden practitioners have to go through is inimaginable. You cannot trust anyone. Even your best friends and your family is not allowed to speak to you when you practice Dorje Shugden.
It is deeply disturbing that this happens in the Tibetan Community. And it has to end quickly. We need to create more awareness and share about this inimaginable ban.
Thank you for this very detailed write up.
Thank You Rinpoche for helping us to see behind the fame and name and see what is really happing for the people on a day to day basis.
May the ban come down swiftly.
P. Antoinette
Thank you for your wonderful sharing Li Kheng, what you have written js very beautiful. Ever since the ban was implemented, thousands and thousands of Dorje Shugden practitioners, especially those who live in the exile have been heavily discriminated against, spat upon, looked down and even hurt, mentally and physically.
I believe that the unethical ban is somewhat a manifestation of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to benefit many more people and save the lineage, I may not agree with His methods but I am in no place to be judgmental as I’m not the enlightened one. I pray that may the ban be lifted very quickly and smoothly so that all Dorje Shugden and non Dorje Shugden practitioners may unite again, live together harmoniously and peacefully.
Hi Bea
I also hope that there is a greater purpose to this ban as the damage it has caused it really quite detrimental. Well, maybe this ban opens up our eyes to the preciousness of the Dharma, which many of us might have taken for granted previously.
Perhaps in our fight to end this ban, we learn with depth about this perfect Protector of our time and are truly able to practice it with the reverence it deserves. With knowledge and with appreciation for Dorje Shugden, the power of his practice may come through with deeper significance because we are praying with understanding of our motivation and the qualities of our object of worship.
I truly hope this ban will end soon. The suffering of the pay especially sangha members is so hard to watch. They became the sangha to free themselves, and here we reach into the holy spaces of monasteries and temples to drag them back into the “dirty” concerns of samsara. So many happenings of the ban is simply wrong at all levels. It is impossible we turn our backs to those who suffer.
Share knowledge, pledge support to spread reliable information about Dorje Shugden. End this threat to humanity.
So much damages to Buddhism created by the ban on Dorje Shugden, it should not have started in the first place. Dalai Lama started the ban in hope to unite all sects of Tibetan Buddhism, it is a purely political decision, because Dalai Lama claimed that Dorje Shugden is too sectarian and thus dividing Tibetans. However, the result is exactly opposite, Tibetans became even more divided than before the ban. The ban should stop right now, it really tarnishes Buddhism badly for decades.
Thank you Li Kheng for sharing your thoughts and another view of how the Dorje Shugden ban impacts Buddhadharma worldwide. What you wrote here “Expanding on this thought, I realized how many good lessons in life we miss because we focus on the negative aspects of life that blind us from the hope that still shines before us everyday.” stopped me in my tracks.
When Rinpoche had us watch that reincarnation video recently, one of the things that stood out for me was one of the professor’s reasonings for why HE doesn’t believe in reincarnation, but that he cannot ignore the evidence for it. He said that our likes, dislikes, preferences and what we’ve been conditioned to think as real and the truth actually closes us up and keeps us from the truth, and from expanding our knowledge and improving (well, he said something to that effect, I’m expanding on his words! Hehe)
You’re right and I guess that is why Rinpoche always tells us to stop complaining. It’s not because feedback isn’t gratefully received, but because there is a difference between feedback and complaining. When you complain, it’s not constructive; unlike feedback, complaining is not done with a view to improve the situation for the future. And when done enough times, it becomes your habit to look for things to complain about. So like you said, instead of enjoying the good lessons in life, we focus on the negative aspects.
United Colors of Spirituality…I love it!
Hello PJA,
Thanks for leaving a comment! Agree with you, this is the true beauty of science: they look at facts and filter out personal judgements and expectations so that beneficial knowledge can be disseminated to the public. Just because ban is called an “advise”, what does the fact show? What results do we see? If we still insist it is an advise, then we need to change the definition of “advise” in all the dictionaries. The world is already delusional enough, it is discouraging when the beacon of light we look to for integrity, kindness and wisdom is also illusional.
Throughout the world many people practice different religions and have faith in different things . some people call themselves spiritual but people like in CTA who hold the power don’t follow the doctrines of an organized religion . As our world becomes more global it is important to respect each other and our different beliefs. lets say CTA don’t like Dorje Shugden, who the hell are they to tell us don’t practice, this our personal choice . So much suffering around the we are facing now days but here we go someone says BAN DS practice.. are u guys human or what.. Is CTA GOVT FOLLOW Buddha’s teaching,, if yes then what kind of Buddhist are they??..
You are right KB. The CTA does not have the right to do what they are doing. However, they are able to do this because NO ONE IS STOPPING THEM.
Like the saying, the mouse come out to play because the cat is not around.
This is why the work of Rinpoche to create awareness to engage support and action from the global society is so important. THe world has changed because of the global populace. It is in the hands of the public that change can happen. It is through the voice of the people that new policies can find ways into constitutions.
This is democracy.
Yup Li Kheng I couldn’t agree with you more! Because of the ban so many people are split, their family, friends, love ones, and most horrible of all, their Gurus are abandoned. How can anyone throw away such sacred relationship because of politics? But I guess this shows us who they are. And because a great, knowledgeable, wise, real Lama like Geshe Kelsang speaks up against the injustice, the Tibetan Leadership attacks him, shuns him, create nasty lies about him and even threatens his life. And because of this many people who could have been benefited from the Dharma, from his teachings, from his books etc. basically lost out. Just imagine how many people’s lives has been affected and their spirituality hindered because of this ban on Dorje Shugden. And the reasons the Tibetan Leadership gives us regarding Dorje Shugden and why we should not practice it are not even logical.
All they, the Tibetan Leadership do is twisting the truth around and create more and more lies to cover another lie. It is indeed truly sad and quite disgusting coming from a society that calls themselves Buddhist. It is quite shameful there is so much nasties going around and the more His Holiness does not intervene to say anything and keeps quiet, the more people are going to believe this is all His Holiness’s doing and this in the end will tarnish His reputation even further. When this happens, which already happening then the sponsorship funds will also lessen, and this will then affect them Tibetan Leaders pockets too. So either way, there is no way they can win their dirty nasty injustice actions by suppressing the Shugden people because the truth always prevails because it is our right to have religious freedom!
Thank you for your comment Joy.
The ban on Dorje Shugden reveals the choices of those who uphold the ban:
– They choose greed for political connection and funds instead of practicing inclusiveness to encourage spiritual aspirations during these degenerate times.
– They choose violence over tolerance.
– They choose ignorance over knowledge as they refuse to learn about the facts behind Dorje Shugden and the ban. This is evident in the anti-Shugden groups’ unsubstantiated accusations and inability to debate openly.
– They choose politics over spirituality.
– They choose the CTA over their own teachers who have given them love, knowledge, a shelter, a community. One of the saddest of such case is FPMT who degrades their Guru, Lama Yeshe, who is a renowned Dorje Shugden practitioner. Spiritually, we can see the truth in this statement as Lama Osel is not able to manifest his potential in this reincarnation.
– We choose fear over love. Many say they accept the ban because they fear the Dalai Lama and the CTA. Little do they know: fear only breeds more fear.
This is the depth of this “simple” ban or “advise”. Whatever, people want to call it, the results are detrimental and global.
Hence, the urgent need for this ban to end.
Dear Li Kheng,
Thank you for sharing your own thoughts here. As you said, Malaysia is a country of diversity. We have many different races that have different cultures and different belief system that made up our own community. This kind of diversity is rare in the world especially when we can live in such harmony despite of our differences. One of the most amazing thing in Malaysia is we have religion freedom. We are able to pray to anything or anyone as long as we do not go against the law. I would think that this is one of the main factor that contributed to the harmony we have today.
When the Dalai Lama imposed the Dorje Shugden ban, the buddhist community in Malaysia is being affected as well. I had personal experience of being unwelcome by a Buddhist store owner when I went there. When they know I believe in Dorje Shugden, they attitude changed from warm to cold in an instant. I could not even imagine how Dorje Shugden practitioners are being treated in places like TIbet and India.
Dear Your Holiness the Dalai Lama, Please lift Shugden Ban.
Thank you Chris for your honesty. We are living in an extremely interdependent world. With information technology, the interconnectedness only get more intense and vast.
Understanding this and applying our understanding of karma, we should realize that this culture of separation, discrimination, breach of human right will only spread if not stopped.
On what basis do we permit the Dorje Shugden ban to go on and ask for religious freedom for other faiths? We would look like a hypocrite and our words will carry no weight. It is only logical.
This is actually one of the reason why I am passionate about lifting the ban. It is beyond Dorje Shudgen or Buddhism. It is about our humanity…our nature to do the right thing…our nature to be the voice for those silenced…our nature to stand up for justice.
This article by our Li Kheng highlights a point that is often over-looked by the majority of people when considering the ban on the practice of Dorje Shugden, and that is the amount of Dharma masters who continue their practices have. Those who are on a real spiritual path should recognise this fact. If these lamas have such Dharma, then surely it calls into question the ban the practice.
But given the current situation it seems that it is more to do with politics than actual practice of spirituality. As Li Kheng rightly writes in this article the ban on Dorje Shugden has led to a lot of negativity, which directly counters what Buddhism practice is about. This pain and suffering, purely because of religious belief has to stop in this day and age that she terms as the United Colors of Spirituality. This is a very apt term. In many civilised and democratic countries all over the world, people are free to choose whatever religion they want to practice and are not actively persecuted for their beliefs. This is not the case with practitioners of Dorje Shugden, who ARE actively persecuted by THEIR own government who is SUPPOSED TO SUPPORT THEM. Sadly this is not the case. Thank you to those lamas, beacons of the Dharma, who continue to oppose this un-democratic and pain-causing ban.
This is the saddest part: the people who were supposed to fend for you are the exact ones who are persecuting you.
If we just take a moment and put ourselves in that position. How does it feel? If we do not want something like this to happen to us, we should not allow it to happen to others as well.
With the Internet, creating awareness, signing a petition and lending a helping hand or a comforting encouragement has become easy and convenient.
Dear Li Kheng
Thank you for this beautiful article. Just like you I have been living in countries that respect people’s religions – USA, Indonesia and now Malaysia. I cannot understand the reason why in this day and age, some people, like Dorje Shugden practitioners, are being penalised on the basis of their faith. The manner as to how they are being penalised is very degrading: refused entry to shops, refused medical services, being beaten and tortured. I thought these things only happened in the middle ages.
I do hope these problems will be resolved soon and we can live in harmony with each other again.
Valentina
Thank you Valentina for your comment! Leaving a comment like what you did here is already a contribution to ending this atrocity to human rights.
Yes, it is shameful when our youths are busy with the latest models of handphone and tabs they “must” have, there are groups of people who cannot even access education, medical attention, temples or simple sundry shops because they exercised their right to religious freedom.
It makes me want to do something when I know that simple families who worked all their lives to build a home, buy a fridge to keep their food fresh have it all taken from them by attackers in the middle of the night. Worst still, attackers who are fellow Tibetans.
I do hope the ban will end through all the efforts being made by Tsem Rinpoche and various groups who believe in upholding the sanctity of human rights.
It was a privilege to be able to share my thoughts and learnings about the Dharma, Dorje Shugden, the ban on this Dharma Protector and the suffering that the ban has caused. Most importantly, the potential long-term damage that awaits humanity as we allow the ban to go on.
Coming from a privileged background where tolerance of difference was upheld and acceptance of diversity is encouraged, I took so many comforts of being a citizen of the 21st century for granted. I savored the opportunities to befriend open minded and accepting people from various parts of the world thinking it was a norm.
The Dorje Shugden ban and what it did to helpless individuals is appalling. It shocks me that so much suffering still does not quality to be a breach to humanity by standards of global organizations like the United Nations. I relaize my ignorance stem from my attitude that “someone out there is going to help these people” and “what can I really do”. Well, I learn from Tsem Rinpoche that every effort, big and small, matters. On a secular level it is called the power of source. Spiritually, it is because when we do something with passion, sincerity and commitment, we summon the similar energies from around us to cause the results we want.
This ban is very, very, very wrong. To lift it is not impossible. But more voices is needed. More actions are needed to prompt those in power and with authority to lift their hand and open their minds to declare: this atrocity must end now. Not for anything but for humanity as a whole. Humanity is the greatest asset we have in this world because it is on the basis of humanity that we have lived and flourished for over 200,000 years on earth. It is because of humanity that there is that silver lining in every cloud. It is for humanity that a single smile from the heart will brighten the darkest moment.
Please read more to understand and share your thoughts in comment or support spread the word to those whom you know will share our passion to preserve what is truly good in our world: a faith in our humanity