D.T. Suzuki: Introducing Zen Buddhism to the West

Feb 14, 2018 | Views: 7,574

(By Tsem Rinpoche)

Daisetsu Teitaro Suzuki

Daisetsu Teitaro Suzuki

Professor Daisetsu Teitaro Suzuki (18 October 1870 – 22 July 1966) was a prolific Japanese writer known for his translations of important Zen (Chan) and Shin (Jodo Shinshu or ‘Pure Land’) Buddhist texts. His work was instrumental in igniting widespread interest in Buddhism in the West, and was a significant catalyst in the worldwide revival of Buddhism in the late 19th Century.

Suzuki was very successful in explaining the concepts of Zen Buddhism to Westerners who had very little to no knowledge of the religion. His success was due to his ability to present Zen Buddhist concepts as profound religious thought.

He demonstrated the extraordinary ability to understand the complex yet fundamental concepts of Zen and Shin Buddhism from a young age. However, he is remembered more for his skill with language, theme and nuance — gifts which allowed him to effectively explain Buddhist philosophy to a Western audience.

During his lifetime, Suzuki published more than 100 books including works that he had translated himself. These translations mainly concern the relationship of Zen Buddhism to everyday life, although he also wrote about other aspects and forms of Buddhism as well, such as the workings of the mind. Suzuki was proficient in Chinese, English, Pali, Sanskrit and several European languages.

The value of Professor Suzuki’s efforts in kindling Western (and worldwide) interest in Buddhism is immeasurable. It is my hope that by telling his story, I will inspire a new generation of people to pursue their own spiritual journey.

 

Early Life

Professor D.T. Suzuki was born Teitaro Suzuki to a Samurai family on October 18, 1870, in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan. He was the fourth son of Ryojun Suzuki, a physician. Today, a humble monument — a tree with a rock placed underneath — marks the place where he was born.

Kanazawa, where Suzuki was born

Kanazawa, where Professor D.T. Suzuki was born

At the time of his birth, Japanese feudalism was in decline. The corresponding loss of prestige and privilege of the samurai class to which his family belonged meant that he was raised in relative poverty. The Suzuki family experienced further misfortune when Ryojun Suzuki passed away in 1876. His mother raised him in these difficult circumstances, even renting part of their house to boarders. Suzuki attended a local high school and befriended Kitaro Nishida who would later become a significant thinker of Western philosophy and Zen.

His humble upbringing coupled with his mother’s Jodo Shinshu Buddhist faith sparked Suzuki’s interest in spirituality and religion. He first received Zen spiritual training in Kokutai-ji under the guidance of a Zen master, Setsumon Roshi, while still in high school.

When he was only 18 years old, D.T. Suzuki began working as a tutor of mathematics, writing, reading and English in a fishing village.

Kokutai-Ji

Kokutai-Ji

 

Secular and Spiritual Education

The younger Suzuki during his student days

A young D.T. Suzuki during his student days

When Professor D.T. Suzuki was 21 years old, his older brother, an established lawyer, sponsored his education at Tokyo Senmon Gakko, the present-day Waseda University in Tokyo. Initially, he continued his spiritual training under the guidance of Imakita Kosen, a Rinzai master.

However, both his mother and his teacher passed away within a short span of time in 1892. Following their deaths, he accepted the suggestion of his childhood friend, Kitaro Nishida, to study Western philosophy, the Chinese language, Pali, Sanskrit and European languages at Tokyo University.

While at Tokyo University, D.T. Suzuki continued his Zen training under the guidance of Kosen Roshi at Engaku-ji Temple in Kamakura. After Kosen Roshi’s passing, he then went under the guidance of his teacher’s main student, Soyen Shaku.

Soyen Shaku

Soyen Shaku

Soyen Shaku was a promising Zen master, naturally gifted and inclined towards Dharma. He began receiving instruction from Kosen Roshi when he was just 22 years old. At the age of 25, Soyen Shaku went to Ceylon (present-day Sri Lanka) to further his knowledge of Buddhism, focusing mainly on Theravada Buddhism and the Pali language, and to live the life of a Theravadan monk for three years. It was Soyen Shaku who gave Suzuki the name ‘Daisetsu‘, which means “Great Humility”, but when written in Kanji can also mean “Great Stupidity”, “Great Clumsy,” or “Great Simplicity.”

Soyen Shaku recognised the spiritual potential within Suzuki, and trained him in strict discipline. Suzuki was advised to live like a simple monk in the temple although he was never ordained. In addition, he was advised to engage in sitting meditation (zazen) for long periods of time.

Suzuki later described his life in Engaku-ji Monastery in his book, The Training of the Zen Buddhist Monk as:

“… a life of humility; a life of labour; a life of service; a life of prayer and gratitude; and a life of meditation.”

D.T. Suzuki was a product of New Buddhism which flourished in Japan after the Meiji era. During the Meiji Restoration, the traditions of Zen Buddhism had been altered. For instance, in the past, Zen monks were required to spend several years in intensive study, including reading commentaries and memorising sutras. New Buddhism afforded Suzuki the opportunity to undergo his Zen training as a lay person.

When D.T. Suzuki was 21 years old, he studied at the present-day Waseda University in Tokyo

At the age of 21, D.T. Suzuki commenced his studies at present-day Waseda University in Tokyo

Tokyo University, where Suzuki studied Western philosophy, Chinese language, Pali, Sanskrit and European languages

Tokyo University where Suzuki studied Western philosophy, the Chinese language, Pali, Sanskrit and European languages

 

Career in the Open Court Publishing Company

Dr. Paul Carus

Dr. Paul Carus

In the 1890s, an unexpected opportunity to work abroad presented itself to Professor D.T. Suzuki. Soyen Shaku had met Dr. Paul Carus, a German-American philosopher and the managing editor of Open Court Publishing Company, at the 1893 World Parliament of Religions in Chicago. Dr. Carus approached Shaku for assistance in preparing Eastern spiritual literature for publication. The work included translations from various Asian languages to English and Shaku recommended Suzuki for the task.

Suzuki moved to America to work in Open Court’s translation department, and stayed with Dr. Carus at the Hegeler Carus Mansion in Illinois. His first assignment was to translate the classic Tao Te Ching from ancient Chinese. Many years later, Suzuki revealed that he was unhappy with the product of his first official translation project because he felt that it failed to capture the true depth of meaning of complex Chinese ideas.

Next, Suzuki started working on the translation of Ashvaghosha’s The Awakening of Faith in the Mahayana (1901) and simultaneously worked on his first book, Outlines of Mahayana Buddhism (1907).

In addition to his work in Open Court’s translation department, Suzuki was also involved in typing, proofreading and photography. In 1906, he translated a book authored by Soyen Shaku titled The Mahayana Buddhist Outlook on Zen Buddhism, a project that marked the beginning of his career as an English language writer. However, Suzuki’s own view was that Zen was heavily influenced by Chinese Taoism.

 

Swedenborg Influence

Suzuki also wrote a book titled Swedenborg: Buddha of the North

Suzuki also wrote a book titled “Swedenborg: Buddha of the North

In the 1890s, Professor D.T. Suzuki collaborated with Albert Edmund on a translation project at Open Court. A British Swedenborgian, Albert Edmund gave Suzuki a copy of one of Swedenborg’s books, Heaven and Hell, translated to English from its original Latin.

After the publication of his first book, Outlines of Mahayana Buddhism, Suzuki left his post at Open Court and went to London to further his study of Emanuel Swedenborg’s philosophy. He was referred to the British Swedenborg Society by Albert Edmund.

In 1908, Suzuki translated Swedenborg’s English edition of Heaven and Hell into Japanese, while taking the content of the French and German editions into consideration. After the completion of this project, Suzuki continued to translate several of Swedenborg’s books such as Divine Love and Wisdom and The New Jerusalem and its Heavenly Doctrines into Japanese.

 

Marriage and Return to Japan

In 1906, Professor D.T. Suzuki met his future wife, Beatrice Erskine Lane, at a lecture given by Soyen Shaku. Beatrice was a Theosophist and a graduate of Radcliffe College. She introduced Suzuki to Theosophism, and he became an active Theosophist and eventually joined the Theosophical Society – Adyar. She was also intimately associated with the Baha’i movement in both America and Japan.

Suzuki and his wife, Beatrice Erskine Lane

Professor D.T. Suzuki and his wife, Beatrice Erskine Lane

Beatrice and Suzuki married five years later and decided to move to Japan. The couple were committed to spreading the understanding of Mahayana Buddhism and lived in a cottage on the Engaku-ji Temple grounds until 1919. During this time, Suzuki taught at the Peer’s School in Tokyo.

In 1921, they moved to Kyoto where Suzuki accepted the post of Professor of Buddhist Philosophy at Otani University. He became renowned for his expertise in Zen history and practice, and Kegon philosophy, which he considered the tool of intellectual analysis for the practice of Zen.

An older photo of Otani University

An older photo of Otani University

In Kyoto, Suzuki and Beatrice established the Eastern Buddhist Society to spread the Mahayana Buddhist doctrine. The Society offered seminars, lectures, and had their own educational journal, The Eastern Buddhist. Living in Kyoto also gave Suzuki the opportunity to discuss Zen Buddhism with the renowned Zen Buddhist scholar, Dr. Hoseki Shinichi Hisamatsu at Shunkoin Temple in the Myoshinji Temple complex.

The couple spent most of their time in Japan until 1936 when Suzuki served as an exchange professor at the University of London. Around this time, he also participated in the World Congress of Faiths. As his popularity as a writer grew, Suzuki returned to America and in 1951, he embarked on a teaching tour at universities throughout the country. From 1952 to 1957, Suzuki held a steady teaching position at Columbia University.

During this period in the United States, he became acquainted with the works of those from the California Academy of Asian Studies (now known as the California Institute of Integral Studies) such as Judith Tyberg, Saburo Hasegawa and Alan Watts.

 

The Eastern Buddhist Society

Suzuki, Beatrice and several other like-minded people such as Sasaki Gessho and Akanuma Chizen established the Eastern Buddhist Society (EBS) in Kyoto in 1921. The main objective of EBS was to “convey the true spirit of Buddhism to the modern world” through its many projects and activities such as:

  • Research and translations of Buddhist texts
  • Publication of an English language journal, titled The Eastern Buddhist
  • Lectures, seminars and group discussions

The Eastern Buddhist contained articles on various aspects of Buddhism, writings by modern Buddhist thinkers, and classical Buddhist texts in the English language. The first edition of this journal was published in 1921. Publication halted during World War II and resumed once again in 1965. After the passing of Professor D.T. Suzuki, Nichitani Keiji, Abe Masao, Nagao Gadjin and other eminent Buddhist scholars served as the editors of this unique journal.

 

Writing Work and International Acclaim

Essays in Zen Buddhism

Essays in Zen Buddhism

In the early 1920s, there was a concern that the Zen masters of the time could not present the fundamental concepts of Zen if they packaged it in a modern light. Undeterred, Professor D.T. Suzuki took the initiative to “under[take] a tentative experiment to present Zen from [the] common-sense point of view.”

In 1927, Suzuki published Essays in Zen Buddhism which contained a collection of fundamental texts to introduce the principles of Zen Buddhism and their application in secular life.

He began the essay by describing the promise of Zen in our everyday lives:

“Zen in its essence is the art of seeing into the nature of one’s own being, and it points the I from bondage to freedom. By making us drink right from the fountain of life, it liberates us from all the yokes under which we finite beings are usually suffering in this world.”

https://www.brainpickings.org/2015/01/30/d-t-suzuki-essays-in-zen-buddhism/

Suzuki placed particular emphasis on the reconstruction of our character. He wrote, “Our ordinary life only touches the fringe of personality, it does not cause a commotion in the deepest parts of the soul.Essays in Zen Buddhism became a classic and is often used as a moral guideline to modern living even today.

Lankavatara Sutra

Lankavatara Sutra

Following the publication of Essays in Zen Buddhism, Suzuki published more articles and books that targeted the English-speaking audience and he gained widespread popularity in the United States and Europe as a prominent scholar of Japanese culture and Zen. In the mid-20th Century, he wrote several more books that contained some of the most celebrated introductions and examinations of Zen Buddhism.

Suzuki was interested in the development of Buddhism in China, particularly through the examination of Chinese texts that contained the teaching style and words of classical Chinese masters such as Wumenguan (Gateless Passage) and Biyan Lu (Blue Cliff Record). He was also interested in how Zen influenced Japanese history and culture, and later wrote a book titled Zen and Japanese Culture. In addition, he translated the Lankavatara Sutra and wrote a commentary on its Sanskrit terminology.

Carl Jung and An Introduction to Zen Buddhism

Carl Jung and An Introduction to Zen Buddhism

Suzuki’s books are widely read in the West and many important personalities have commented on them and on the author himself. For instance, the famous psychoanalyst Carl Jung wrote a 30-page commentary to Suzuki’s An Introduction to Zen Buddhism:

“Suzuki’s works on Zen Buddhism are among the best contributions to the knowledge of living Buddhism. We cannot be sufficiently grateful to the author, first for the fact of his having brought Zen closer to Western understanding, and secondly for the manner in which he has achieved this task.”

Carl Jung on Suzuki, An Introduction to Zen Buddhism

In addition, William C. Barret (1913-1992), a Professor of Philosophy at New York University, compiled Suzuki’s articles and essays about Zen into a book titled Studies of Zen.

In his later years, Suzuki developed an interest in Jodo Shinshu (Pure Land Buddhism), the faith of his mother, to the extent that he translated its related texts and gave lectures on the subject at the Buddhist Churches of America. In his book on Jodo Shinshu titled Buddha of Infinite Light, Suzuki stated that:

“Of all the developments that Mahayana Buddhism has achieved in East Asia, the most remarkable one is the Shin teaching of Pure Land Buddhism.”

D.T. Suzuki, Buddha of Infinite Light: The Teachings of Shin Buddhism, the Japanese Way of Wisdom and Compassion

Although Suzuki was of the view that Jodo Shinshu Buddhism was Mahayana Buddhism’s most remarkable development in East Asia, he did not attempt to promote this branch of the faith in the West and continued with his efforts to propagate Zen.

In addition to the Zen and Jodo Shinshu faiths, Suzuki was interested in Christian mysticism. He compared the Christian mystic, Meister Eckhart to a Jodo Shinshu follower from the Tokugawa period, Myokonin.

Mahayana Buddhism

Mahayana Buddhism

In the 1940s, access to Suzuki’s books became scarce. All the copies in Japan were lost in the great fire that destroyed a quarter of Tokyo. Moreover, the copies in England had gone out of print.

Determined to salvage the situation, Christmas Humphreys, the President of London’s Buddhist Society, travelled to Tokyo in 1946. Humphreys worked with Suzuki to translate new texts and to reprint what remained of Suzuki’s previous works. This collaboration resulted in another compilation of essays titled Essays in Zen Buddhism.

In addition, Christmas Humphreys wrote a foreword to Beatrice’s book titled Mahayana Buddhism.

Alan Watts, D.T. Suzuki, and Christmas Humphreys in London, 1958

Alan Watts, D.T. Suzuki, and Christmas Humphreys in London, 1958

 

Professor D.T. Suzuki and New Buddhism

In 1868, Japan opened her doors to the international community during the Meiji Restoration. However, this modernisation caused some backlash against Buddhism, which was labelled by the government as “a corrupt, decadent, anti-social, parasitic, and superstitious creed, inimical to Japan’s need for scientific and technological advancement.”

The Meiji Government wanted to eradicate Buddhist customs that were considered “incapable of fostering the nativist sentiments that would be vital for national, ideological cohesion.” To make things worse, the newly-introduced industrialisation efforts had had a negative impact on the traditional patrons of Buddhist monasteries.

However, a new generation of Buddhist leaders emerged to salvage the situation. These leaders agreed that the old Buddhist traditions needed to be revitalised to better fit the needs of the emergent modern Japan. As a result, New Buddhism (Shin Bukkyo) was established.

The New Buddhism movement was initiated by a group of intellectuals that included Professor D.T. Suzuki’s teachers, Imakita Kosen and Soyen Shaku, who had been exposed to the Western way of thinking. This modern generation of Buddhist leaders saw New Buddhism as a way of preserving Buddhism from persecution and, at the same time, contributing to Japan’s cultural force.

SU21

The idea of New Buddhism was in line with Suzuki’s idea that “…religions are each a sort of organism, an organism that is [through time] subject to ‘irritation’ and therefore shows the capacity to change or evolve.”

Later Buddhist scholars such as Martin Verhoeven and Robert Sharf argued that the Japanese Zen Buddhism promoted by Soyen Shaku and Imakita Kosen was different from pre-Meiji era Zen Buddhism. This is the de-traditionalised and essentialised Zen Buddhism that Suzuki effectively promoted in the West.

In his later years, Suzuki’s role evolved from that of a reporter to that of a contributor who enriched the school of Zen Buddhism. The Japanese philosopher of the Kyoto School, Nishitani Keiji echoed this belief:

… in Dr. Suzuki’s activities, Buddhism came to possess a forward-moving direction with a frontier spirit … This involved shouldering the task of rethinking, restating and redoing traditional Buddhism to transmit it to Westerners as well as Easterners.

… To accomplish this task it is necessary to be deeply engrossed in the tradition, and at the same time to grasp the longing and the way of thinking within the hearts of Westerners. From there, new possibilities should open up in the study of the Buddha Dharma which have yet to be found in Buddhist history … Up to now this new Buddhist path has been blazed almost single-handedly by Dr. Suzuki. He did it on behalf of the whole Buddhist world.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D._T._Suzuki

According to Richard M. Jaffe, the Chair of the Department of Religion at Duke University, Suzuki was “one of the most culturally influential Asians of the 20th century.”

 

Professor D.T. Suzuki and Japanese Nationalism

Professor D.T. Suzuki has been criticised for his pre-World War II support of Japanese nationalism and of the Japanese war effort. Suzuki had supported the Nihonjinron philosophy, which emphasised the unique characteristics of Japanese culture. He attributed it to the concept of Zen because it contained the essence of all religion and philosophy. Suzuki presented Zen as an expression of Asian spirituality, superior to the Western way of thinking.

SU15b

Robert Sharf, Professor of Buddhist Studies at the University of California, Berkeley has argued that Suzuki’s claim that Zen embodies the essence of all religion and philosophy to be an expression of his nationalism and less-than-noble intentions:

“The Nihonjinron cultural exceptionalism polemic in Suzuki’s work – the grotesque caricatures of ‘East’ versus ‘West’ – is no doubt the most egregiously inane manifestation of his nationalist leanings. … One is led to suspect that Suzuki’s lifelong effort to bring Buddhist enlightenment to the Occident had become inextricably bound to a studied contempt for the West.”

Kubota, Hiroshi and Nawrocki, Johann, Religion and National Identity in the Japanese Context

However, another scholar, Kemmyo Taira Sato, the former director of The Buddhist Society, does not agree with this critical assessment of Suzuki:

“In cases where Suzuki directly expresses his position on the contemporary political situation — whether in his articles, public talks, or letters to friends (in which he would have had no reason to misrepresent his views) — he is clear and explicit in his distrust of, and opposition to, State Shinto, right-wing thought, and the other forces that were pushing Japan toward militarism and war, even as he expressed interest in decidedly non-rightist ideologies like socialism.

In this Suzuki’s standpoint was consistent from the late nineteenth century through to the post-war years. These materials reveal in Suzuki an intellectual independence, a healthy scepticism of political ideology and government propaganda, and a sound appreciation for human rights.

Sato, Kemmyō Taira, D. T. Suzuki and the Question of War

 

Later Life, and Death

SU015a

In the 1950s, Professor D.T. Suzuki returned to the United States and spent the next decade delivering talks and lectures in prominent universities such as Harvard, Columbia and the University of New Mexico. He was also elected as President of the Cambridge Buddhist Association. In 1956, the Zen Studies Society in New York was established for the purpose of supporting his work.

When he was 90 years old, Suzuki went on a four-week tour to India as an official State Guest. When he was 94 years old, Suzuki returned to New York, where he was later introduced to a Catholic monk, Thomas Merton, with whom he began a dialogue on Christianity via letters. Suzuki also attended the East-West Philosopher’s Conference in Honolulu.

 

Legacy

The final resting place of D.T. Suzuki

The final resting place of Professor D.T. Suzuki

During his lifetime, Professor D.T. Suzuki received many honours including Japan’s National Cultural Medal in recognition of his achievements as a distinguished Zen scholar who promoted Japan and introduced Zen Buddhism to the world. He published over 100 books in both English and Japanese that include studies of Pure Land and Zen Buddhism, various Buddhist classics, and works by the ancient Chinese philosopher, Lao Tzu.

Suzuki was not only popular among his contemporaries, but also inspired a younger generation of writers such as Alan Watts, who spent his life studying and propagating Suzuki’s teachings, and musicians like John Cage.

 

The D.T. Suzuki Museum

In 2011, the D.T. Suzuki Museum was established in Suzuki’s hometown, Kanazawa. It celebrates Suzuki’s life and achievements through his writings, and is an invaluable repository of information about this prolific author-translator’s philosophies.

D.T. Suzuki Museum in Kanazawa

The D.T. Suzuki Museum in Kanazawa

The clean, serene, and simple architecture of the museum serves as a reflection of Suzuki’s religious scholarship and lifestyle. It was designed by the famed architect Taniguchi Yoshio, whose portfolio includes the Heisei Chishinkan wing of the Kyoto National Museum, the Toyokan wing of the Tokyo National Museum, and the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

A sense of tranquility can be felt throughout the museum complex. The three buildings in the museum are connected by corridors built around the Water Mirror Garden pond. The complex also has a contemplative space, which consists of a large room that extends all the way to the Water Mirror Garden. In addition, it contains a learning space at one end that houses both English and Japanese books written by Suzuki.

Contemplative Space at D.T. Suzuki Museum

The contemplative space at the D.T. Suzuki Museum

Inside the Contemplative Space at D.T. Suzuki Museum

Inside the contemplative space

 

Getting There

Visitors can take Kanazawa’s Loop Bus and get off at stop number LL7 or RL10. The museum is also just a 10-minute walk from the nearby 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.

Kanazawa Loop Buses Route

The route of Kanazawa’s Loop Buses. Click to enlarge.

 

Videos of Suzuki’s Teachings and Experiences

 

A Zen Life by D.T. Suzuki

Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/AZenLifeD.T.Suzuki.mp4

 

D.T. Suzuki: The Swordsman and the Cat

Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/D.T.SuzukitheSwordsmantheCat.mp4

 

D.T. Suzuki on Being Natural

Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/DTSuzukiBeingNatural.mp4

 

D.T. Suzuki: Complications Arising from Discrimination

Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/DTSuzukiComplicationsArisingfromDiscrimination.mp4

 

D.T. Suzuki on Nirvana

Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/DTSuzukionNirvana.mp4

 

D.T. Suzuki on the Teaching of the Lankavatara

Or view the video on the server at:
https://video.tsemtulku.com/videos/DTSuzukiontheTeachingoftheLankavatara.mp4

 

Recommended Reading (Free Download)

The Zen Doctrine of No-Mind (click to download PDF)

Manual of Zen Buddhism (click to download PDF)

Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind (click to download PDF)

An Introduction to Zen Buddhism (click to download PDF)

The Zen Manifesto: Freedom From Oneself (click to download PDF)

D.T. Suzuki and the Question of War (click to download PDF)

The texts above were sourced from legitimate book-hosting services offering these texts for free download. They are made available here for purely educational, non-commercial purposes.

 

More Books Written or Translated by D.T. Suzuki

Outlines of Mahayana Buddhism (original publisher unknown, 1907)

Outlines of Mahayana Buddhism (original publisher unknown, 1907)

A Brief History of Early Chinese Philosophy (original publisher unknown, 1914)

A Brief History of Early Chinese Philosophy (original publisher unknown, 1914)

Studies in the Lankavatara Sutra (original publisher unknown, 1930)

Studies in the Lankavatara Sutra (original publisher unknown, 1930)

An Introduction to Zen Buddhism (Eastern Buddhist Society, 1934)

An Introduction to Zen Buddhism (Eastern Buddhist Society, 1934)

Manual of Zen Buddhism (Eastern Buddhist Society, 1934)

Manual of Zen Buddhism (Eastern Buddhist Society, 1934)

The Training of the Zen Buddhist Monk (The Eastern Buddhist Society, 1934)

The Training of the Zen Buddhist Monk (The Eastern Buddhist Society, 1934)

Zen and Japanese Culture (Princeton University Press, 1938)

Zen and Japanese Culture (Princeton University Press, 1938)

The Zen Doctrine of No-Mind (Red Wheel/Weiser, 1949)

The Zen Doctrine of No-Mind (Red Wheel/Weiser, 1949)

Essays in Zen Buddhism (Rider for the Buddhist Society, 1953)

Essays in Zen Buddhism (Rider for the Buddhist Society, 1953)

Studies in Zen (Rider and Company, 1955)

Studies in Zen (Rider and Company, 1955)

Mysticism: Christian and Buddhist (original publisher unknown, 1957)

Mysticism: Christian and Buddhist (original publisher unknown, 1957)

Zen Buddhism: Selected Writing (Doubleday, 1958)

Zen Buddhism: Selected Writings (Doubleday, 1958)

Zen and Japanese Buddhism (Japan Travel Bureau, 1958)

Zen and Japanese Buddhism (Japan Travel Bureau, 1958)

Sengai: The Zen of Ink and Paper (original publisher unknown, 1971)

Sengai: The Zen of Ink and Paper (original publisher unknown, 1971)

The Awakening of Zen (Praj-na Press, 1980)

The Awakening of Zen (Praj-na Press, 1980)

 Swedenborg: Buddha of the North (English translation) (Swedenborg Foundation Publishers, 1996)

Swedenborg: Buddha of the North (English translation) (Swedenborg Foundation Publishers, 1996)

Buddha of Infinite Light: The Teachings of Shin Buddhism, the Japanese Way of Wisdom and Compassion (Shambhala, 2002)

Buddha of Infinite Light: The Teachings of Shin Buddhism, the Japanese Way of Wisdom and Compassion (Shambhala, 2002)

The Zen Koan As a Means of Attaining Enlightenment (Tuttle Publishing, 2011)

The Zen Koan As a Means of Attaining Enlightenment (Tuttle Publishing, 2011)

The Core Teachings of D. T. Suzuki (Lulu Press, 2012)

The Core Teachings of D.T. Suzuki (Lulu Press, 2012)

Selected Works of D.T. Suzuki (University of California Press, 2015)

Selected Works of D.T. Suzuki (University of California Press, 2015)

Sources:

  • https://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/D._T._Suzuki
  • https://www.goodreads.com/author/quotes/74355.D_T_Suzuki?page=2
  • http://web.otani.ac.jp/EBS/about.html
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D._T._Suzuki
  • https://www.brainpickings.org/2015/01/30/d-t-suzuki-essays-in-zen-buddhism/
  • https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4211.html
  • http://www.kanazawa-museum.jp/daisetz/english/
  • https://lareviewofbooks.org/article/sage-works-d-t-suzuki/#!
  • http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/D._T._Suzuki
  • https://swedenborg.com/scholars-swedenborgianism-zen-buddhism/
  • https://swedenborg.com/emanuel-swedenborg/about-life/
  • https://swedenborg.com/happy-birthday-d-t-suzuki/
  • http://sweepingzen.com/d-t-suzuki-bio/

For more interesting information:

 

Please support us so that we can continue to bring you more Dharma:

If you are in the United States, please note that your offerings and contributions are tax deductible. ~ the tsemrinpoche.com blog team

9 Responses to D.T. Suzuki: Introducing Zen Buddhism to the West

DISCLAIMER IN RELATION TO COMMENTS OR POSTS GIVEN BY THIRD PARTIES BELOW

Kindly note that the comments or posts given by third parties in the comment section below do not represent the views of the owner and/or host of this Blog, save for responses specifically given by the owner and/or host. All other comments or posts or any other opinions, discussions or views given below under the comment section do not represent our views and should not be regarded as such. We reserve the right to remove any comments/views which we may find offensive but due to the volume of such comments, the non removal and/or non detection of any such comments/views does not mean that we condone the same.

We do hope that the participants of any comments, posts, opinions, discussions or views below will act responsibly and do not engage nor make any statements which are defamatory in nature or which may incite and contempt or ridicule of any party, individual or their beliefs or to contravene any laws.

  1. Sofi on Oct 5, 2018 at 10:29 am

    D.T. Suzuki is such an extraordinary man who continuously learn even when he himself is a Master to teach others. One can see clearly that he had taken in his learnings and fully understanding or realising before he in turn teaches others. It is something internalised and not shallow with just academic knowledge. He has such zest for life that even at age 94, he is still travelling to discover or pursue further knowledge. Most people of that age would have retired to a life of inactivity and just living day to day of waiting for death. Thank you Rinpoche, for sharing with us the life story of this inspiring Master, D.T. Suzuki.

  2. Pastor Adeline Woon on Aug 23, 2018 at 12:16 am

    Medicine Buddha puja encourages healing of all levels – physical, mental and emotional healing for those in need.

    High resolution file of this thangka is available for download for all dharma practitioners around the world and for those who just want sacred images in their environment. Enjoy, be blessed and share this with others.

    Here is the link to free download of this image and many other images: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/downloads/buddha-images.html?nggpage=7

  3. Stella Cheang on Jul 21, 2018 at 9:53 pm

    “Our ordinary life only touches the fringe of personality, it does not cause a commotion in the deepest parts of the soul” – to me, I find this phrase very intriguing. Spiritual awakening comes from experience and not a concept of words, it therefore should triggers deeper reflection, contemplation and looking within to arrive a point of awareness.

  4. Anne Ong on Apr 3, 2018 at 9:09 pm

    It’s always wonderful to read about someone who is inspiring and has many talents. Thank you Rinpoche and blog team for sharing about Professor Daisetsu Teitaro Suzuki who spread Buddhism to the west and is proficient in so many languagesn??

  5. Wan Wai Meng on Mar 20, 2018 at 2:51 am

    Very interesting to get to know about D.T Suzuki and all the works he has done for the Buddha dharma.

  6. yin ping on Mar 5, 2018 at 2:39 am

    I am particularly attracted to this old poet sings:
    ‘When there is a particle of dust in your eyes, the triple world becomes a narrow path; have your mind completely free from objects – and how much this life expands!’

    The eyes are resembled our mind which by nature is bright and clear. Our eye couldn’t open when tiny particle gets into it. Just as our mind will be disturbed and commotion when there are presence of conditions such as pleasure and pain, fame and insignificance, gain and loss, praise and blame. The confused and desire mind is our inner enemy which trap us in samsara.

  7. Pastor Han Nee on Mar 1, 2018 at 5:24 pm

    Thank you Rinpoche for your sharing on this incredibly amazing Master of Zen Buddhism. Professor DT Suzuki is remembered by the world for introducing Zen Buddhism to the West with his numerous translation works on it. He was also largely responsible for the revival of Buddhism worldwide in the late 19th century, as well as for kindling the interest of the West in Buddhism.

    Owing to his skill with languages and his ability to present Zen Buddhist concepts as profound religious thought, he captivated the West (with its scarce knowledge of the religion ) as they became enthralled by his explanation of Buddhist philosophy and Zen Buddhism.

    At an early age, his teacher recognised his spiritual potential and advised him to live like a simple monk in the temple (although he was never ordained) as well as to train in sitting meditation.The dawn of the era of New Buddhism allowed him the opportunity to undergo his Zen training as a lay person.

    Suzuki married Beatrice Erskine Lane, who, like him, was committed to spreading the understanding of Mahayana Buddhism. He continued to propagate Zen Buddhism and write prolifically on it. The couple formed the Eastern Buddhist Society to spread the doctrine of Mahayana Buddhism.

    In essence, DT Suzuki blazed a trail of New Buddhism – he was a pioneer who reshaped traditional Buddhism to transmit it to Westerners as well as Easterners in a way that they could better accept. His legacy is embodied in his achievements as ” a distinguished Zen scholar who promoted Japan and introduced Zen Buddhism to the world”. As a writer ,he published “over 100 books in both English and Japanese that include studies of Pure Land and Zen Buddhism, various Buddhist classics, and works by the ancient Chinese philosopher, Lao Tzu”! He is also well-remembered as a great teacher!

    What an amazing pioneer and trail blazer for Buddhism is Professor DT Suzuki!

  8. Cc on Feb 18, 2018 at 4:32 pm

    This is really inspiring. 100 books on books and essays on Buddhism, Zen and Shin and widely read in the West.

    ??? Thank you Rinpoche for sharing.

  9. Samfoonheei on Feb 17, 2018 at 1:29 pm

    D.T. Suzuki was a Japanese author of more than a hundreds of books and essays on Buddhism, Zen and Shin . He was one of a greatest author, on the subject in both Japanese and English at that time. He was also a prolific translator of Chinese, Japanese, and Sanskrit literature .One of the world’s leading authorities on Zen Buddhism. He was such an amazing great scholar proficient in many languages such as Chinese, English, Pali, Sanskrit and even several European languages. In recognition of his achievements, he was awarded with many honours which has inspired many younger generation of writers.
    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this inspiring post.

Leave a Reply

Maximum file size: 15MB each
Allowed file types: jpg, jpeg, gif, png

 

Maximum file size: 50MB
Allowed file type: mp4
Maximum file size: 15MB each
Allowed file types: pdf, docx

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Blog Chat

BLOG CHAT

Dear blog friends,

I’ve created this section for all of you to share your opinions, thoughts and feelings about whatever interests you.

Everyone has a different perspective, so this section is for you.

Tsem Rinpoche


SCHEDULED CHAT SESSIONS / 聊天室时间表

(除了每个月的第一个星期五)
SUNDAY
8 - 9PM (GMT +8)
4 - 5AM (PST)

UPCOMING TOPICS FOR NOVEMBER / 十一月份讨论主题

NOTICE:
Weekly Blog Chat discussion pause from November10th to December 8th, 2024.
Resume on December 15th (Sunday) 8 pm (GMT +8).

Please come and join in the chat for a fun time and support. See you all there.


Blog Chat Etiquette

These are some simple guidelines to make the blog chat room a positive, enjoyable and enlightening experience for everyone. Please note that as this is a chat room, we chat! Do not flood the chat room, or post without interacting with others.

EXPAND
Be friendly

Remember that these are real people you are chatting with. They may have different opinions to you and come from different cultures. Treat them as you would face to face, and respect their opinions, and they will treat you the same.

Be Patient

Give the room a chance to answer you. Patience is a virtue. And if after awhile, people don't respond, perhaps they don't know the answer or they did not see your question. Do ask again or address someone directly. Do not be offended if people do not or are unable to respond to you.

Be Relevant

This is the blog of H.E. Tsem Rinpoche. Please respect this space. We request that all participants here are respectful of H.E. Tsem Rinpoche and his organisation, Kechara.

Be polite

Avoid the use of language or attitudes which may be offensive to others. If someone is disrespectful to you, ignore them instead of arguing with them.

Please be advised that anyone who contravenes these guidelines may be banned from the chatroom. Banning is at the complete discretion of the administrator of this blog. Should anyone wish to make an appeal or complaint about the behaviour of someone in the chatroom, please copy paste the relevant chat in an email to us at care@kechara.com and state the date and time of the respective conversation.

Please let this be a conducive space for discussions, both light and profound.

KECHARA FOREST RETREAT PROGRESS UPDATES

Here is the latest news and pictorial updates, as it happens, of our upcoming forest retreat project.

The Kechara Forest Retreat is a unique holistic retreat centre focused on the total wellness of body, mind and spirit. This is a place where families and individuals will find peace, nourishment and inspiration in a natural forest environment. At Kechara Forest Retreat, we are committed to give back to society through instilling the next generation with universal positive values such as kindness and compassion.

For more information, please read here (english), here (chinese), or the official site: retreat.kechara.com.

Noticeboard

Name: Email:
For:  
Mail will not be published
  • Samfoonheei
    Wednesday, Nov 20. 2024 04:02 PM
    The concept of rebirth has a long association with Buddhism. Rebirth in Buddhism refers to the teaching that the actions of a sentient being lead to a new existence after death, in an endless cycle called saṃsāra. One will begins a new life in a new body that may be human, animal or spiritual depending on the moral quality of the previous life’s actions. What they are reborn as depends on their actions in their previous life rather kamma. As a Buddhist we should believe in rebirth but still many people don’t . Buddha taught us that choices of rebirth make a difference and can shape many lifetimes. Buddhists believe that nothing that exists is permanent and everything will ultimately cease to be. There is a belief in rebirth
    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this profound article.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/the-importance-of-rebirth.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Wednesday, Nov 20. 2024 03:59 PM
    Against the odds two inspiring nuns fought all the way to become ordained, fighting for their rights to practice Buddhism . Interesting read of how they went through , bringing equality for women in Thailand. Buddhism is the predominant religion in Thailand. Officially, only men can become monks and novices in Thailand under a Buddhist order. The country does not recognize female monks or novices. In recent years, more Thai Buddhist women seeking to become full-fledged female monks, have been defying the tradition getting ordained overseas, in Sri Lanka or India. Buddhist women have been fighting for years for equality and social acceptance in Thailand. They just can’t be ordained by Thai monks. Ven. Dhammananda, 68 year old former university lecturer and activist became Thailand’s first Theravadin bhikkhuni after going the odds. Inspiring read biography on Ven. Dhammananda and Ven. Dr. Lee. They had gone through great hardships, discrimination and against the many odds in bringing equality to women in Buddhism in Thailand.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this great inspiration post.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/thailands-renegade-yet-powerful-buddhist-nuns.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Wednesday, Nov 20. 2024 03:57 PM
    The unseen things are spiritual realities that are eternal and invisible to our physical eye. There are many forces and phenomena that are not visible to the naked eye. There are many things that humans cannot see yet there are some could see. For what is can be seen is only. Things do exist even we can’t see, believing their existence is our choice. Things that we can’t see in the world opens up a curiosity and exploration by some. Whether through scientific inquiry, or spiritual exploration, the pursuit of knowledge about the unseen can lead to profound insights about ourselves and the universe.
    Malacca City is the historic capital of the coastal state of Malacca, in Malaysia serving as a link between east and west for over 500 years. Famous for breath-taking sights with rich heritage, ancient dark culture and history with many old centuries buildings with an interesting past and a colourful ghost story. For that reason alone it is worth visiting as is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site owing to its well-preserved historical center. There’s many historical mansions been passed down generation to generations and with many ghostly sighting by the locals and visitors. There’s the reason many unseen beings loitering and attached to these places. Such an interesting and incredibly creepy watching the video in this blog host by Li Kim. Li Kim had done a great work all along with her team to share with readers about our historic Malacca .
    Thank you Rinpoche and Li Kim for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/paranormal/unseen-unspoken.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Wednesday, Nov 20. 2024 03:56 PM
    The concept of rebirth has a long association with Buddhism. Rebirth in Buddhism refers to the teaching that the actions of a sentient being lead to a new existence after death, in an endless cycle called saṃsāra. One will begins a new life in a new body that may be human, animal or spiritual depending on the moral quality of the previous life’s actions. What they are reborn as depends on their actions in their previous life rather kamma. As a Buddhist we should believe in rebirth but still many people don’t . Buddha taught us that choices of rebirth make a difference and can shape many lifetimes. Buddhists believe that nothing that exists is permanent and everything will ultimately cease to be. There is a belief in rebirth
    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this profound article.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/12-little-known-law-of-karma-that-will-change-your-life.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Thursday, Nov 14. 2024 11:37 AM
    Revisit this post again , watching the rare video footage of Dorje Shugden oracles. Awesome ,we are so fortunate to watch this incredible video, where extraordinary footage of Tsem Rinpoche self-arising as the all-powerful Buddha Yamantaka. Its was during Rinpoche’s visit to Tibet in 2009.
    Thank you Rinpoche with folded hands.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/dorje-shugden/never-seen-before-footage-of-dorje-shugden-oracles.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Thursday, Nov 14. 2024 11:35 AM
    Vajrayogini symbolizes the wisdom of all enlightened beings and embodies the impulse of inspiration that drives the Buddhas to attain the perfect enlightenment. Vajrayogini is one of the most effective practices for people today. We can make offerings such as gold or jewel offerings and so on. The offering of gold helps us to collect merits, spiritual attainments, gain a deeper connection to Vajrayogini. It also creates the causes to attain a Buddha’s body.
    Make Offerings to Vajrayogini in Kechara Forest Retreat at Bentong is such an meritorious way for us to collect merits. All thanks to our Guru having conceptualised the idea of having a statue of Vajrayogini for everyone . Recitation of Vajrayogini mantra can be a powerful tool for self-transformation, healing and liberation from samsara.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing with details explanation .

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/kechara-13-depts/make-offerings-to-vajrayogini-in-kechara-forest-retreat.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Thursday, Nov 14. 2024 11:31 AM
    Thank you, Rinpoche for sharing this insightful article. Life is short, and if we enjoy every moment of every day, then we will be happy no matter what happens or what changes along the way.What ever matter to us at the time of death is nothing. In the end, it’s not the years in our life that count it’s what you leave behind that matters. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again.Death is the golden key that opens the palace of eternity. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time. Learning Dharma and practicing dharma is the our choice that’s matter. Some of the key points to take notes, read, study the Lam Rim and apply it, engage in Sadhana daily and consistently. No one will help us at the moment of death but ourselves. Spiritual practicing is the best choice.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/last-moment.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Thursday, Nov 14. 2024 11:29 AM
    Well the size of Buddha statues in Tibetan Buddhism is important because it represents the Buddha’s immense ability and vast knowledge. Hence the Buddha statues hold the symbol of satisfaction within, peace and happiness. They are a symbol of inspiration for every human being. When we focus on the Buddha statues, it gives us inner peace that our mind, our heart and our soul gets enlightened.
    We have are so fortunate seeing and circumambulating where the 9-foot Dorje Shugden statue and with 500 mantra stones engraved with Dorje Shugden’s sacred mantra. As Rinpoche had said before the bigger and more Buddha statues helps in planting seeds of enlightenment in people’s mind-streams. It also help us to generate as much merit and purify as much karma as possible. Merely by seeing all those big statues at Kechara Forest Retreat is a blessing.
    Thank you Rinpoche.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/kechara-13-depts/bigger-and-more-buddha-statues-makes-a-difference.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Thursday, Nov 14. 2024 11:27 AM
    The 4th Tagpu Pemavajra Jampel Tenpai Ngodrub, most commonly known as Tagpu Dorje Chang, was a highly accomplished yogi Highly attained lama who had many authentic visions of the Buddhas and even travel astrally to receive direct teachings from them. His recognised line of incarnations stem all the way back to the 14th Century. He is generally regarded as such amongst Gelug lineage holders. He spent most of his time in a hermitage located above Sera Monastery, gave teachings and transmitted many vital practices and lineages to his foremost student Kyabje Pabongka Rinpoche. Besides receiving the complete instructions of Dorje Shugden’s practice, Tagpu Dorje Chang had many other mystical experiences throughout his lifetime. Interesting read biography of a highly accomplished mahasiddha lama.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this great sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/guest-contributors/biography-the-4th-tagphu-pemavajra-jampel-tenpai-ngodrub.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Oct 18. 2024 06:39 PM
    n Tibetan culture, it is a popular and customary practice for families to invite monks to perform spiritual ceremonies such as Trusol rituals. The monks have had the opportunity to offer such ceremonies for individuals or their families. Such ceremonies purify the elements of the environment which helps those living or visiting there to experience good health, success and well-being. The sacred ritual of ‘bathing’ the Buddhas and consecration through which negativities, sicknesses and obstacles will be cleared. Where by filling those areas with positive energies and good vibes through this Trusol consecration puja. Water is an essential part of this puja and symbolises the cleansing of all negativities and impurities. Through this puja it also pacifies local deities and other unseen beings in the surrounding areas. We are indeed fortunate that Tsem Rinpoche has taught Kecharians this practice and it has benefited many.
    Thank you Rinpoche with folded hands

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/the-second-generation-of-trusol-practitioners.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Oct 18. 2024 06:37 PM
    Reading this post had me gain some knowledge of Shifter Werewolves. Any article regarding rare creatures or paranormal articles are of my interest since young. In European folklore, a werewolf is a man who turns into a wolf at night and devours animals, people, or corpses but returns to human form by day.They have the ability to transform from an ordinary human appearance to a partially-lupine form with pointed ears, mutton chops, claws and fangs, and a ridged brow . Wow… werewolf tends to be vicious and unable to control his blood thirst. Their underlying common origin can be traced back to Proto-Indo-European mythology. In many depictions, these bloodthirsty beasts are evil where they kill animals and innocent people. They are humans who transition into wolf-like creatures, after being placed under a curse. In folklore, most werewolves originate from being cursed or bitten by another werewolf. That’s what they do believe. According many enthusiasts, there’s many different type of werewolves such as Alpha wolves, Beta wolves , Deltas, Elders, some survive as loners while others move in packs. How true it is no one knows. I do believe their existing . Many interesting stories related to these wolves in the past history.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/paranormal/werewolves-the-shapeshifters.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Oct 18. 2024 06:35 PM
    Beautiful Dorje Shugden at Malacca. One should pay a visit there, located at a busy tourist place. It was such an auspicious occasion that a grand Puja was held there. Dedicated students and volunteers were there getting the place ready for the grand puja. Well the Grand Dorje Shugden puja was conducted by very own Kechara puja team to commemorate the chapel’s 3rd anniversary. Many people attended the Puja that’s wonderful to receive the powerful Protector Dorje Shugden blessings. More people will make a connection and get to know Manjushri, the Buddha of Wisdom, in the form of a Dharma Protector. May Dorje Shugden’s practice flourish to benefit those tourists and locals.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/study-groups/grand-puja-at-malaccas-dorje-shugden-chapel-chinese.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Oct 18. 2024 06:34 PM
    Venerable Geshe Rabten Rinpoche is a highly realised meditation master known as a debater, scholar, and meditation master, was the first Tibetan Buddhist master to introduce the complete Vinaya-tradition. He had also introduce the study of the five major topics of Buddhism to the West. He became the ‘path breaker’ of the complete and complex teachings of Buddhism in the West. Many masters, who are famous in the West today, were Geshe’s students. enerable Geshe Rabten. Geshe Rabten wrote the beautiful and Manjushri’s prayer called Gangloma and gave a profound explanation. We are so fortunate to learn about this Manjushri’s sacred prayer. May all be blessed by the practice of Lord Manjushri and Geshe Rabten’s explanation.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/praise-to-manjusri-explanation-by-geshe-rabten.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Sunday, Oct 13. 2024 05:04 PM
    The begging bowl or alms bowl is one of the simplest but most important objects in the daily lives of Theravada Buddhist monks. The alms bowl still stands as an emblem of how all Buddhas, as numerous as grains of sand in the Ganges, practiced to end their desire. All those who receive the alms bowl should focus their mind to act with self-control and self-respect. Almsgiving is a tradition of Theravada Buddhists, majority in Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Laos. In those early days of Buddhism, monks would take their bowls and go out begging for food. As today in Thailand one could see monks woke up before dawn every morning and carried his bowl through the roads or paths wherever he was staying. Local people would place food in the bowl as a donation, through the generosity of lay people. They accept whatever food is offered for them and eat whatever been given, serve as a blessing for the giver.
    One bowl has held the food of a thousand families. A solitary monastic travels on his journey of a hundred thousand miles seeking liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
    Thank you H.E. Tsem Rinpoche for explaining the meaning of begging and gave us more reasons to be vegetarian . Create a awareness among us not killing animals to be one.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/one-minute-story/why-buddha-has-a-begging-bowl
  • Samfoonheei
    Sunday, Oct 13. 2024 05:03 PM
    Ajahn Siripanyo, the son of billionaire Ananda Krishnan, chose to abandon his inheritance and become a Buddhist monk in pursuit of spirituality. A Thai-Malaysian monk born in London and educated in UK. He was ordained in Thailand and lived there, leaving behind a life of immense wealth and privilege. He did surprised many and his choice was unexpected. Initially as a temporary measure, but somehow later evolved into a permanent way of life. Ven. Ajahn Siripanyo is now the Abbot of hermitage Dtao Dam on the Thai-Burmese border in Saiyok National Park, Thailand.
    He was in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia years back giving an enthralling Dhamma talk on the timeless teachings of Ajahn Chah.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this inspiring sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/ajahn-siripanno.html

1 · 2 · 3 · 4 · 5 · »

Messages from Rinpoche

Scroll down within the box to view more messages from Rinpoche. Click on the images to enlarge. Click on 'older messages' to view archived messages. Use 'prev' and 'next' links to navigate between pages

Use this URL to link to this section directly: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/#messages-from-rinpoche

Previous Live Videos

MORE VIDEOS

Shugdenpas Speaking Up Across The Globe

From Europe Shugden Association:


MORE VIDEOS

From Tibetan Public Talk:


MORE VIDEOS

CREDITS

Concept: Tsem Rinpoche
Technical: Lew Kwan Leng, Justin Ripley, Yong Swee Keong
Design: Justin Ripley, Cynthia Lee
Content: Tsem Rinpoche, Justin Ripley, Pastor Shin Tan, Sarah Yap
Admin: Pastor Loh Seng Piow, Beng Kooi

I must thank my dharma blog team who are great assets to me, Kechara and growth of dharma in this wonderful region. I am honoured and thrilled to work with them. I really am. Maybe I don't say it enough to them, but I am saying it now. I APPRECIATE THESE GUYS VERY MUCH!

Tsem Rinpoche

Total views today
333
Total views up to date
27208931
Facebook Fans Youtube Views Blog Views
Animal Care Fund
  Bigfoot, Yeti, Sasquatch

The Unknown

The Known and unknown are both feared,
Known is being comfortable and stagnant,
The unknown may be growth and opportunities,
One shall never know if one fears the unknown more than the known.
Who says the unknown would be worse than the known?
But then again, the unknown is sometimes worse than the known. In the end nothing is known unless we endeavour,
So go pursue all the way with the unknown,
because all unknown with familiarity becomes the known.
~Tsem Rinpoche

Photos On The Go

Click on the images to view the bigger version. And scroll down and click on "View All Photos" to view more images.
According to legend, Shambhala is a place where wisdom and love reign, and there is no crime. Doesn\'t this sound like the kind of place all of us would love to live in? https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=204874
5 years ago
According to legend, Shambhala is a place where wisdom and love reign, and there is no crime. Doesn't this sound like the kind of place all of us would love to live in? https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=204874
108 candles and sang (incense) offered at our Wish-Fulfilling Grotto, invoking Dorje Shugden\'s blessings for friends, sponsors and supporters, wonderful!
5 years ago
108 candles and sang (incense) offered at our Wish-Fulfilling Grotto, invoking Dorje Shugden's blessings for friends, sponsors and supporters, wonderful!
Dharmapalas are not exclusive to Tibetan culture and their practice is widespread throughout the Buddhist world - https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=193645
5 years ago
Dharmapalas are not exclusive to Tibetan culture and their practice is widespread throughout the Buddhist world - https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=193645
One of our adorable Kechara Forest Retreat\'s doggies, Tara, happy and safe, and enjoying herself in front of Wisdom Hall which has been decorated for Chinese New Year
5 years ago
One of our adorable Kechara Forest Retreat's doggies, Tara, happy and safe, and enjoying herself in front of Wisdom Hall which has been decorated for Chinese New Year
Fragrant organic Thai basil harvested from our very own Kechara Forest Retreat farm!
5 years ago
Fragrant organic Thai basil harvested from our very own Kechara Forest Retreat farm!
On behalf of our Puja House team, Pastor Tat Ming receives food and drinks from Rinpoche. Rinpoche wanted to make sure the hardworking Puja House team are always taken care of.
5 years ago
On behalf of our Puja House team, Pastor Tat Ming receives food and drinks from Rinpoche. Rinpoche wanted to make sure the hardworking Puja House team are always taken care of.
By the time I heard about Luang Phor Thong, he was already very old, in his late 80s. When I heard about him, I immediately wanted to go and pay my respects to him. - http://bit.ly/LuangPhorThong
5 years ago
By the time I heard about Luang Phor Thong, he was already very old, in his late 80s. When I heard about him, I immediately wanted to go and pay my respects to him. - http://bit.ly/LuangPhorThong
It\'s very nice to see volunteers helping maintain holy sites in Kechara Forest Retreat, it\'s very good for them. Cleaning Buddha statues is a very powerful and effective way of purifying body karma.
5 years ago
It's very nice to see volunteers helping maintain holy sites in Kechara Forest Retreat, it's very good for them. Cleaning Buddha statues is a very powerful and effective way of purifying body karma.
Kechara Forest Retreat is preparing for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations. This is our holy Vajra Yogini stupa which is now surrounded by beautiful lanterns organised by our students.
5 years ago
Kechara Forest Retreat is preparing for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations. This is our holy Vajra Yogini stupa which is now surrounded by beautiful lanterns organised by our students.
One of the most recent harvests from our Kechara Forest Retreat land. It was grown free of chemicals and pesticides, wonderful!
5 years ago
One of the most recent harvests from our Kechara Forest Retreat land. It was grown free of chemicals and pesticides, wonderful!
Third picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
5 years ago
Third picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
Second picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
5 years ago
Second picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
First picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
5 years ago
First picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
The first title published by Kechara Comics is Karuna Finds A Way. It tells the tale of high-school sweethearts Karuna and Adam who had what some would call the dream life. Everything was going great for them until one day when reality came knocking on their door. Caught in a surprise swindle, this loving family who never harmed anyone found themselves out of luck and down on their fortune. Determined to save her family, Karuna goes all out to find a solution. See what she does- https://bit.ly/2LSKuWo
5 years ago
The first title published by Kechara Comics is Karuna Finds A Way. It tells the tale of high-school sweethearts Karuna and Adam who had what some would call the dream life. Everything was going great for them until one day when reality came knocking on their door. Caught in a surprise swindle, this loving family who never harmed anyone found themselves out of luck and down on their fortune. Determined to save her family, Karuna goes all out to find a solution. See what she does- https://bit.ly/2LSKuWo
Very powerful story! Tibetan Resistance group Chushi Gangdruk reveals how Dalai Lama escaped in 1959- https://bit.ly/2S9VMGX
5 years ago
Very powerful story! Tibetan Resistance group Chushi Gangdruk reveals how Dalai Lama escaped in 1959- https://bit.ly/2S9VMGX
At Kechara Forest Retreat land we have nice fresh spinach growing free of chemicals and pesticides. Yes!
5 years ago
At Kechara Forest Retreat land we have nice fresh spinach growing free of chemicals and pesticides. Yes!
See beautiful pictures of Manjushri Guest House here- https://bit.ly/2WGo0ti
5 years ago
See beautiful pictures of Manjushri Guest House here- https://bit.ly/2WGo0ti
Beginner’s Introduction to Dorje Shugden~Very good overview https://bit.ly/2QQNfYv
5 years ago
Beginner’s Introduction to Dorje Shugden~Very good overview https://bit.ly/2QQNfYv
Fresh eggplants grown on Kechara Forest Retreat\'s land here in Malaysia
5 years ago
Fresh eggplants grown on Kechara Forest Retreat's land here in Malaysia
Most Venerable Uppalavanna – The Chief Female Disciple of Buddha Shakyamuni - She exhibited many supernatural abilities gained from meditation and proved to the world females and males are equal in spirituality- https://bit.ly/31d9Rat
5 years ago
Most Venerable Uppalavanna – The Chief Female Disciple of Buddha Shakyamuni - She exhibited many supernatural abilities gained from meditation and proved to the world females and males are equal in spirituality- https://bit.ly/31d9Rat
Thailand’s ‘Renegade’ Yet Powerful Buddhist Nuns~ https://bit.ly/2Z1C02m
5 years ago
Thailand’s ‘Renegade’ Yet Powerful Buddhist Nuns~ https://bit.ly/2Z1C02m
Mahapajapati Gotami – the first Buddhist nun ordained by Lord Buddha- https://bit.ly/2IjD8ru
5 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami – the first Buddhist nun ordained by Lord Buddha- https://bit.ly/2IjD8ru
The Largest Buddha Shakyamuni in Russia | 俄罗斯最大的释迦牟尼佛画像- https://bit.ly/2Wpclni
5 years ago
The Largest Buddha Shakyamuni in Russia | 俄罗斯最大的释迦牟尼佛画像- https://bit.ly/2Wpclni
Sacred Vajra Yogini
5 years ago
Sacred Vajra Yogini
Dorje Shugden works & archives - a labour of commitment - https://bit.ly/30Tp2p8
5 years ago
Dorje Shugden works & archives - a labour of commitment - https://bit.ly/30Tp2p8
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha.
5 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha.
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha. She was his step-mother and aunt. Buddha\'s mother had passed away at his birth so he was raised by Gotami.
5 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha. She was his step-mother and aunt. Buddha's mother had passed away at his birth so he was raised by Gotami.
Another nun disciple of Lord Buddha\'s. She had achieved great spiritual abilities and high attainments. She would be a proper object of refuge. This image of the eminent bhikkhuni (nun) disciple of the Buddha, Uppalavanna Theri.
5 years ago
Another nun disciple of Lord Buddha's. She had achieved great spiritual abilities and high attainments. She would be a proper object of refuge. This image of the eminent bhikkhuni (nun) disciple of the Buddha, Uppalavanna Theri.
Wandering Ascetic Painting by Nirdesha Munasinghe
5 years ago
Wandering Ascetic Painting by Nirdesha Munasinghe
High Sri Lankan monks visit Kechara to bless our land, temple, Buddha and Dorje Shugden images. They were very kind-see pictures- https://bit.ly/2HQie2M
5 years ago
High Sri Lankan monks visit Kechara to bless our land, temple, Buddha and Dorje Shugden images. They were very kind-see pictures- https://bit.ly/2HQie2M
This is pretty amazing!

First Sri Lankan Buddhist temple opened in Dubai!!!
5 years ago
This is pretty amazing! First Sri Lankan Buddhist temple opened in Dubai!!!
My Dharma boy (left) and Oser girl loves to laze around on the veranda in the mornings. They enjoy all the trees, grass and relaxing under the hot sun. Sunbathing is a favorite daily activity. I care about these two doggies of mine very much and I enjoy seeing them happy. They are with me always. Tsem Rinpoche

Always be kind to animals and eat vegetarian- https://bit.ly/2Psp8h2
5 years ago
My Dharma boy (left) and Oser girl loves to laze around on the veranda in the mornings. They enjoy all the trees, grass and relaxing under the hot sun. Sunbathing is a favorite daily activity. I care about these two doggies of mine very much and I enjoy seeing them happy. They are with me always. Tsem Rinpoche Always be kind to animals and eat vegetarian- https://bit.ly/2Psp8h2
After you left me Mumu, I was alone. I have no family or kin. You were my family. I can\'t stop thinking of you and I can\'t forget you. My bond and connection with you is so strong. I wish you were by my side. Tsem Rinpoche
5 years ago
After you left me Mumu, I was alone. I have no family or kin. You were my family. I can't stop thinking of you and I can't forget you. My bond and connection with you is so strong. I wish you were by my side. Tsem Rinpoche
This story is a life-changer. Learn about the incredible Forest Man of India | 印度“森林之子”- https://bit.ly/2Eh4vRS
6 years ago
This story is a life-changer. Learn about the incredible Forest Man of India | 印度“森林之子”- https://bit.ly/2Eh4vRS
Part 2-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
6 years ago
Part 2-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
Part 1-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
6 years ago
Part 1-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
The great Protector Manjushri Dorje Shugden depicted in the beautiful Mongolian style. To download a high resolution file: https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
6 years ago
The great Protector Manjushri Dorje Shugden depicted in the beautiful Mongolian style. To download a high resolution file: https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
The Mystical land of Shambhala is finally ready for everyone to feast their eyes and be blessed. A beautiful post with information, art work, history, spirituality and a beautiful book composed by His Holiness the 6th Panchen Rinpoche. ~ https://bit.ly/309MHBi
6 years ago
The Mystical land of Shambhala is finally ready for everyone to feast their eyes and be blessed. A beautiful post with information, art work, history, spirituality and a beautiful book composed by His Holiness the 6th Panchen Rinpoche. ~ https://bit.ly/309MHBi
Beautiful pictures of the huge Buddha in Longkou Nanshan- https://bit.ly/2LsBxVb
6 years ago
Beautiful pictures of the huge Buddha in Longkou Nanshan- https://bit.ly/2LsBxVb
The reason-Very interesting thought- https://bit.ly/2V7VT5r
6 years ago
The reason-Very interesting thought- https://bit.ly/2V7VT5r
NEW Bigfoot cafe in Malaysia! Food is delicious!- https://bit.ly/2VxdGau
6 years ago
NEW Bigfoot cafe in Malaysia! Food is delicious!- https://bit.ly/2VxdGau
DON\'T MISS THIS!~How brave Bonnie survived by living with a herd of deer~ https://bit.ly/2Lre2eY
6 years ago
DON'T MISS THIS!~How brave Bonnie survived by living with a herd of deer~ https://bit.ly/2Lre2eY
Global Superpower China Will Cut Meat Consumption by 50%! Very interesting, find out more- https://bit.ly/2V1sJFh
6 years ago
Global Superpower China Will Cut Meat Consumption by 50%! Very interesting, find out more- https://bit.ly/2V1sJFh
You can download this beautiful Egyptian style Dorje Shugden Free- https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
6 years ago
You can download this beautiful Egyptian style Dorje Shugden Free- https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
Beautiful high file for print of Lord Manjushri. May you be blessed- https://bit.ly/2V8mwZe
6 years ago
Beautiful high file for print of Lord Manjushri. May you be blessed- https://bit.ly/2V8mwZe
Mongolian (Oymiakon) Shaman in Siberia, Russia. That is his real outfit he wears. Very unique. TR
6 years ago
Mongolian (Oymiakon) Shaman in Siberia, Russia. That is his real outfit he wears. Very unique. TR
Find one of the most beautiful temples in the world in Nara, Japan. It is the 1,267 year old Todai-ji temple that houses a 15 meter Buddha Vairocana statue who is a cosmic and timeless Buddha. Emperor Shomu who sponsored this beautiful temple eventually abdicated and ordained as a Buddhist monk. Very interesting history and story. One of the places everyone should visit- https://bit.ly/2VgsHhK
6 years ago
Find one of the most beautiful temples in the world in Nara, Japan. It is the 1,267 year old Todai-ji temple that houses a 15 meter Buddha Vairocana statue who is a cosmic and timeless Buddha. Emperor Shomu who sponsored this beautiful temple eventually abdicated and ordained as a Buddhist monk. Very interesting history and story. One of the places everyone should visit- https://bit.ly/2VgsHhK
Manjusri Kumara (bodhisattva of wisdom), India, Pala dynesty, 9th century, stone, Honolulu Academy of Arts
6 years ago
Manjusri Kumara (bodhisattva of wisdom), India, Pala dynesty, 9th century, stone, Honolulu Academy of Arts
Click on "View All Photos" above to view more images

Videos On The Go

Please click on the images to watch video
  • Pig puts his toys away
    5 years ago
    Pig puts his toys away
    Animals are so intelligent. They can feel happiness, joy, pain, sorrow, just like humans. Always show kindness to them. Always show kindness to everyone.
  • Always be kind to animals-They deserve to live just like us.
    5 years ago
    Always be kind to animals-They deserve to live just like us.
    Whales and dolphins playing with each other in the Pacific sea. Nature is truly incredible!
  • Bodha stupa July 2019-
    5 years ago
    Bodha stupa July 2019-
    Rainy period
  • Cute Tara girl having a snack. She is one of Kechara Forest Retreat’s resident doggies.
    5 years ago
    Cute Tara girl having a snack. She is one of Kechara Forest Retreat’s resident doggies.
  • Your Next Meal!
    5 years ago
    Your Next Meal!
    Yummy? Tasty? Behind the scenes of the meat on your plates. Meat is a killing industry.
  • This is Daw
    5 years ago
    This is Daw
    This is what they do to get meat on tables, and to produce belts and jackets. Think twice before your next purchase.
  • Don’t Take My Mummy Away!
    5 years ago
    Don’t Take My Mummy Away!
    Look at the poor baby chasing after the mother. Why do we do that to them? It's time to seriously think about our choices in life and how they affect others. Be kind. Don't break up families.
  • They do this every day!
    5 years ago
    They do this every day!
    This is how they are being treated every day of their lives. Please do something to stop the brutality. Listen to their cries for help!
  • What happened at Fair Oaks Farm?
    5 years ago
    What happened at Fair Oaks Farm?
    The largest undercover dairy investigation of all time. See what they found out at Fair Oaks Farm.
  • She’s going to spend her whole life here without being able to move correctly. Like a machine. They are the slaves of the people and are viewed as a product. It’s immoral. Billions of terrestrial animals die annually. Billions. You can’t even imagine it. And all that because people don’t want to give up meat, even though there are so many alternatives. ~ Gabriel Azimov
    5 years ago
    She’s going to spend her whole life here without being able to move correctly. Like a machine. They are the slaves of the people and are viewed as a product. It’s immoral. Billions of terrestrial animals die annually. Billions. You can’t even imagine it. And all that because people don’t want to give up meat, even though there are so many alternatives. ~ Gabriel Azimov
  • Our Malaysian Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir speaks so well, logically and regarding our country’s collaboration with China for growth. It is refreshing to listen to Dr. Mahathir’s thoughts. He said our country can look to China for many more things such as technology and so on. Tsem Rinpoche
    6 years ago
    Our Malaysian Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir speaks so well, logically and regarding our country’s collaboration with China for growth. It is refreshing to listen to Dr. Mahathir’s thoughts. He said our country can look to China for many more things such as technology and so on. Tsem Rinpoche
  • This is the first time His Holiness Dalai Lama mentions he had some very serious illness. Very worrying. This video is captured April 2019.
    6 years ago
    This is the first time His Holiness Dalai Lama mentions he had some very serious illness. Very worrying. This video is captured April 2019.
  • Beautiful Monastery in Hong Kong
    6 years ago
    Beautiful Monastery in Hong Kong
  • This dog thanks his hero in such a touching way. Tsem Rinpoche
    6 years ago
    This dog thanks his hero in such a touching way. Tsem Rinpoche
  • Join Tsem Rinpoche in prayer for H.H. Dalai Lama’s long life~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYy7JcveikU&feature=youtu.be
    6 years ago
    Join Tsem Rinpoche in prayer for H.H. Dalai Lama’s long life~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYy7JcveikU&feature=youtu.be
  • These people going on pilgrimage to a holy mountain and prostrating out of devotion and for pilgrimage in Tibet. Such determination for spiritual practice. Tsem Rinpoche
    6 years ago
    These people going on pilgrimage to a holy mountain and prostrating out of devotion and for pilgrimage in Tibet. Such determination for spiritual practice. Tsem Rinpoche
  • Beautiful new casing in Kechara for Vajra Yogini. Tsem Rinpoche
    6 years ago
    Beautiful new casing in Kechara for Vajra Yogini. Tsem Rinpoche
  • Get ready to laugh real hard. This is Kechara’s version of “Whatever Happened to Baby Jane!” We have some real talents in this video clip.
    6 years ago
    Get ready to laugh real hard. This is Kechara’s version of “Whatever Happened to Baby Jane!” We have some real talents in this video clip.
  • Recitation of Dorje Dermo‘s mantra or the Dharani of Glorious Vajra Claws. This powerful mantra is meant to destroy all obstacles that come in our way. Beneficial to play this mantra in our environments.
    6 years ago
    Recitation of Dorje Dermo‘s mantra or the Dharani of Glorious Vajra Claws. This powerful mantra is meant to destroy all obstacles that come in our way. Beneficial to play this mantra in our environments.
  • Beautiful
    6 years ago
    Beautiful
    Beautiful sacred Severed Head Vajra Yogini from Tsem Rinpoche's personal shrine.
  • My little monster cute babies Dharma and Oser. Take a look and get a cute attack for the day! Tsem Rinpoche
    6 years ago
    My little monster cute babies Dharma and Oser. Take a look and get a cute attack for the day! Tsem Rinpoche
  • Plse watch this short video and see how all sentient beings are capable of tenderness and love. We should never hurt animals nor should we eat them. Tsem Rinpoche
    6 years ago
    Plse watch this short video and see how all sentient beings are capable of tenderness and love. We should never hurt animals nor should we eat them. Tsem Rinpoche
  • Cruelty of some people have no limits and it’s heartbreaking. Being kind cost nothing. Tsem Rinpoche
    6 years ago
    Cruelty of some people have no limits and it’s heartbreaking. Being kind cost nothing. Tsem Rinpoche
  • SUPER ADORABLE and must see
    6 years ago
    SUPER ADORABLE and must see
    Tsem Rinpoche's dog Oser girl enjoying her snack in her play pen.
  • Cute!
    6 years ago
    Cute!
    Oser girl loves the balcony so much. - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RTcoWpKJm2c
  • Uncle Wong
    6 years ago
    Uncle Wong
    We were told by Uncle Wong he is very faithful toward Dorje Shugden. Dorje Shugden has extended help to him on several occasions and now Uncle Wong comes daily to make incense offerings to Dorje Shugden. He is grateful towards the help he was given.
  • Tsem Rinpoche’s Schnauzer Dharma boy fights Robot sphere from Arkonide!
    6 years ago
    Tsem Rinpoche’s Schnauzer Dharma boy fights Robot sphere from Arkonide!
  • Cute baby owl found and rescued
    6 years ago
    Cute baby owl found and rescued
    We rescued a lost baby owl in Kechara Forest Retreat.
  • Nice cups from Kechara!!
    6 years ago
    Nice cups from Kechara!!
    Dorje Shugden people's lives matter!
  • Enjoy a peaceful morning at Kechara Forest Retreat
    6 years ago
    Enjoy a peaceful morning at Kechara Forest Retreat
    Chirping birds and other forest animals create a joyful melody at the Vajrayogini stupa in Kechara Forest Retreat (Bentong, Malaysia).
  • This topic is so hot in many circles right now.
    7 years ago
    This topic is so hot in many circles right now.
    This video is thought-provoking and very interesting. Watch! Thanks so much to our friends at LIVEKINDLY.
  • Chiropractic CHANGES LIFE for teenager with acute PAIN & DEAD LEG.
    7 years ago
    Chiropractic CHANGES LIFE for teenager with acute PAIN & DEAD LEG.
  • BEAUTIFUL PLACE IN NEW YORK STATE-AMAZING.
    7 years ago
    BEAUTIFUL PLACE IN NEW YORK STATE-AMAZING.
  • Leonardo DiCaprio takes on the meat Industry with real action.
    7 years ago
    Leonardo DiCaprio takes on the meat Industry with real action.
  • Do psychic mediums have messages from beyond?
    7 years ago
    Do psychic mediums have messages from beyond?
  • Lovely gift for my 52nd Birthday. Tsem Rinpoche
    7 years ago
    Lovely gift for my 52nd Birthday. Tsem Rinpoche
  • This 59-year-old chimpanzee was refusing food and ready to die until...
    7 years ago
    This 59-year-old chimpanzee was refusing food and ready to die until...
    she received “one last visit from an old friend” 💔💔
  • Bigfoot sighted again and made it to the news.
    7 years ago
    Bigfoot sighted again and made it to the news.
  • Casper is such a cute and adorable. I like him.
    7 years ago
    Casper is such a cute and adorable. I like him.
  • Dorje Shugden Monastery Amarbayasgalant  Mongolia's Ancient Hidden Gem
    7 years ago
    Dorje Shugden Monastery Amarbayasgalant Mongolia's Ancient Hidden Gem
  • Don't you love Hamburgers? See how 'delicious' it is here!
    7 years ago
    Don't you love Hamburgers? See how 'delicious' it is here!
  • Such a beautiful and powerful message from a person who knows the meaning of life. Tsem Rinpoche
    7 years ago
    Such a beautiful and powerful message from a person who knows the meaning of life. Tsem Rinpoche
  • What the meat industry figured out is that you don't need healthy animals to make a profit.
    7 years ago
    What the meat industry figured out is that you don't need healthy animals to make a profit.
    Sick animals are more profitable... farms calculate how close to death they can keep animals without killing them. That's the business model. How quickly they can be made to grow, how tightly they can be packed, how much or how little can they eat, how sick they can get without dying... We live in a world in which it's conventional to treat an animal like a block of wood. ~ Jonathan Safran Foer
  • This video went viral and it's a must watch!!
    7 years ago
    This video went viral and it's a must watch!!
  • SEE HOW THIS ANIMAL SERIAL KILLER HAS NO ISSUE BLUDGEONING THIS DEFENSELESS BEING.
    7 years ago
    SEE HOW THIS ANIMAL SERIAL KILLER HAS NO ISSUE BLUDGEONING THIS DEFENSELESS BEING.
    This happens daily in slaughterhouse so you can get your pork and Bak ku teh. Stop eating meat.

ASK A PASTOR


Ask the Pastors

A section for you to clarify your Dharma questions with Kechara’s esteemed pastors.

Just post your name and your question below and one of our pastors will provide you with an answer.

Scroll down and click on "View All Questions" to view archived questions.

View All Questions

CHAT PICTURES

Thank you for your Order!52393739852742
5 days ago
Thank you for your Order!52393739852742
Look at how attentive of the members during Dharma talk. It is through hearing, contemplation and practicing Dharma, one is able to eradicate delusions and march towards liberation. 28/9/2024 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
1 month ago
Look at how attentive of the members during Dharma talk. It is through hearing, contemplation and practicing Dharma, one is able to eradicate delusions and march towards liberation. 28/9/2024 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Pastor  did dharma sharing on KFR retreat puja, purification after retreat and karma. Kechara Penang weekly puja. Pic taken by Siew Hong.
1 month ago
Pastor  did dharma sharing on KFR retreat puja, purification after retreat and karma. Kechara Penang weekly puja. Pic taken by Siew Hong.
Under the guidance from Pastor Seng Piow, Kechara Penang Study Group members completed our weekly Dorje Shugden Puja. 28th September 2024 by Jacinta.
1 month ago
Under the guidance from Pastor Seng Piow, Kechara Penang Study Group members completed our weekly Dorje Shugden Puja. 28th September 2024 by Jacinta.
Sponsors' packages nicely decorated nd offered up on behalf. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
1 month ago
Sponsors' packages nicely decorated nd offered up on behalf. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Completed Dorje Shugden puja cum recitation of Namasangiti on 14th September 2024. Kechara Penang Study Group, uploaded by Jacinta.
1 month ago
Completed Dorje Shugden puja cum recitation of Namasangiti on 14th September 2024. Kechara Penang Study Group, uploaded by Jacinta.
Known as Merdeka Day (31st Aug 2024), our Kechara Penang members celebrated this day with Dorje Shugden and his entourage by doing a DS puja together with recitation of Namasangiti. Uploaded by Jacinta.
1 month ago
Known as Merdeka Day (31st Aug 2024), our Kechara Penang members celebrated this day with Dorje Shugden and his entourage by doing a DS puja together with recitation of Namasangiti. Uploaded by Jacinta.
24th Aug 2024, Kechara Penang Study Group members have completed weekly puja. A variety of kuihs and fruits were offered up on behalf of sponsors. By Jacinta
1 month ago
24th Aug 2024, Kechara Penang Study Group members have completed weekly puja. A variety of kuihs and fruits were offered up on behalf of sponsors. By Jacinta
At the point of the passing, the only thing that will help us and our loved ones is the Dharma. Hence, try to chant mantra, do pujas, giving alms and etc during this period. Bereavement puja by Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 months ago
At the point of the passing, the only thing that will help us and our loved ones is the Dharma. Hence, try to chant mantra, do pujas, giving alms and etc during this period. Bereavement puja by Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Bereavement puja by Kechara Penang Study Group. May the deceased has good rebirth and the family members find solace in the Three Jewels. Thanks to Rinpoche for He always taught us about practising compassion through action. By Jacinta
3 months ago
Bereavement puja by Kechara Penang Study Group. May the deceased has good rebirth and the family members find solace in the Three Jewels. Thanks to Rinpoche for He always taught us about practising compassion through action. By Jacinta
Thanks to Sharyn, the florist came and arranged on the spot! What a lovely and colourful bunch flowers attractively arranged to Buddha as offerings. 2nd Penang DS retreat of the year (2024), uploaded by Jacinta.
3 months ago
Thanks to Sharyn, the florist came and arranged on the spot! What a lovely and colourful bunch flowers attractively arranged to Buddha as offerings. 2nd Penang DS retreat of the year (2024), uploaded by Jacinta.
As usual, a retreat will not be complete without nice tormas. Pastor Patsy and our dear Penang members ~ Swee Bee, Tang, Jasmine and Siew Hong came together as a perfect and united team in completing it. Penang DS Retreat 17-18th Aug 2024 by Jacinta.
3 months ago
As usual, a retreat will not be complete without nice tormas. Pastor Patsy and our dear Penang members ~ Swee Bee, Tang, Jasmine and Siew Hong came together as a perfect and united team in completing it. Penang DS Retreat 17-18th Aug 2024 by Jacinta.
A picture that says all. Thanks to Pastor Seng Piow, 12 retreatants and 51sponsors that make this event a successful one. See you all in our next retreat. Kam Siah. A simple yet full of gratitude note by Choong, uploaded by Jacinta.
3 months ago
A picture that says all. Thanks to Pastor Seng Piow, 12 retreatants and 51sponsors that make this event a successful one. See you all in our next retreat. Kam Siah. A simple yet full of gratitude note by Choong, uploaded by Jacinta.
Offerings being set up, getting ready to start the first day of Kechara Penang Group's retreat. By Jacinta
3 months ago
Offerings being set up, getting ready to start the first day of Kechara Penang Group's retreat. By Jacinta
As H. E. The 25th Tsem Tulku Rinpoche had mentioned a retreat is time taken away from our ordinary, daily, mundane activities specifically to focus on deeper meditation, deeper meditational practices to gain some benefits.  Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
3 months ago
As H. E. The 25th Tsem Tulku Rinpoche had mentioned a retreat is time taken away from our ordinary, daily, mundane activities specifically to focus on deeper meditation, deeper meditational practices to gain some benefits. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Retreat started for the second half of the year, 17th Aug 2024. We have new participants and those regulars. Thanks to Pastor Seng Piow and Choong for organising it. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 months ago
Retreat started for the second half of the year, 17th Aug 2024. We have new participants and those regulars. Thanks to Pastor Seng Piow and Choong for organising it. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
10th Aug 2024. Kechara Penang Study Group completed DS puja, led by Siew Hong. Uploaded by Jacinta.
3 months ago
10th Aug 2024. Kechara Penang Study Group completed DS puja, led by Siew Hong. Uploaded by Jacinta.
Thank you Pastor Seng Piow for the dharma sharing and leading today's puja 3rd August 2024. Pic by Siew Hong and uploaded by Jacinta.
3 months ago
Thank you Pastor Seng Piow for the dharma sharing and leading today's puja 3rd August 2024. Pic by Siew Hong and uploaded by Jacinta.
Puja sponsorships packages of RM100, RM 50 and RM30. Really appreciate the continuous support for our Penang DS Chapel. 28/7/2024 By Jacinta
3 months ago
Puja sponsorships packages of RM100, RM 50 and RM30. Really appreciate the continuous support for our Penang DS Chapel. 28/7/2024 By Jacinta
Completed weekly puja at Penang DS Chapel. 27th July 2024 by Jacinta.
3 months ago
Completed weekly puja at Penang DS Chapel. 27th July 2024 by Jacinta.
For those Penang members who were back in Penang, instead of having a weekend off, they chose to go to Penang DS centre and did a DS puja for the benefits of all beings. 20th July 2024, Saturday. By Jacinta
3 months ago
For those Penang members who were back in Penang, instead of having a weekend off, they chose to go to Penang DS centre and did a DS puja for the benefits of all beings. 20th July 2024, Saturday. By Jacinta
So proud of Penang Kecharians for attending initiations given by Venerable Chojila at Kechara Forest Retreat, Bentong on 20th - 21st July 2024. Against all odds, many of us made it there. (Not in the pic Mr. Teo and Sunny) By Jacinta.
3 months ago
So proud of Penang Kecharians for attending initiations given by Venerable Chojila at Kechara Forest Retreat, Bentong on 20th - 21st July 2024. Against all odds, many of us made it there. (Not in the pic Mr. Teo and Sunny) By Jacinta.
Wishing all sponsors' wishes be fulfilled and thanks for supporting our Kechara Penang Puja packages on 13/7/2024. By Jacinta
3 months ago
Wishing all sponsors' wishes be fulfilled and thanks for supporting our Kechara Penang Puja packages on 13/7/2024. By Jacinta
#throwback 13th July 2024, Kechara Penang Study Group completed DS puja. We have special guest that day, Paul, a long time senior Kecharian with his friends. By Jacinta
3 months ago
#throwback 13th July 2024, Kechara Penang Study Group completed DS puja. We have special guest that day, Paul, a long time senior Kecharian with his friends. By Jacinta
Beautiful offerings arranged by Choong. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
4 months ago
Beautiful offerings arranged by Choong. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
7/7/2024 Kechara Penang weekly puja completed. Kechara Penang Study Girup by Jacinta.
4 months ago
7/7/2024 Kechara Penang weekly puja completed. Kechara Penang Study Girup by Jacinta.
This week's puja offerings sponsored by a few people and we hope their wishes be fulfilled. Pic taken by Choong and uploaded by Jacinta.
5 months ago
This week's puja offerings sponsored by a few people and we hope their wishes be fulfilled. Pic taken by Choong and uploaded by Jacinta.
29th June 2024. Kechara Penang Study Group completed weekly Dorje Shugden cum Manjushri Namasangiti. Pic taken by Choong and uploaded by Jacinta
5 months ago
29th June 2024. Kechara Penang Study Group completed weekly Dorje Shugden cum Manjushri Namasangiti. Pic taken by Choong and uploaded by Jacinta
Need a dose of spiritual nourishment or perhaps any spiritual protection? Do take up our Kechara Penang food/candles offering packages. Do not hesitate to contact our member Choong for more info. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
5 months ago
Need a dose of spiritual nourishment or perhaps any spiritual protection? Do take up our Kechara Penang food/candles offering packages. Do not hesitate to contact our member Choong for more info. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Different food offerings offered on Penang Kechara Chapel's altar behalf of the sponsors. May sponsors' wishes be fulfilled. Great effort from Choong Soon Heng, one of our Kechara Penang dedicated members who thought of this way for people to generate merits while clearing obstacles. Uploaded by Jacinta.
5 months ago
Different food offerings offered on Penang Kechara Chapel's altar behalf of the sponsors. May sponsors' wishes be fulfilled. Great effort from Choong Soon Heng, one of our Kechara Penang dedicated members who thought of this way for people to generate merits while clearing obstacles. Uploaded by Jacinta.
These are some of the offerings offered on behalf of our sponsors. We have different offerings packages which one can choose from or just simply sponsor our weekly puja in dedication to our loved ones. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
5 months ago
These are some of the offerings offered on behalf of our sponsors. We have different offerings packages which one can choose from or just simply sponsor our weekly puja in dedication to our loved ones. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
We hope you enjoyed our pictures, as much as we enjoyed our Wesak Day together in Penang. Let us carry the energy and enthusiasm we experienced so far and inspires many more. Happy Wesak Day! 22/5/2024 KPSG by Jacinta
6 months ago
We hope you enjoyed our pictures, as much as we enjoyed our Wesak Day together in Penang. Let us carry the energy and enthusiasm we experienced so far and inspires many more. Happy Wesak Day! 22/5/2024 KPSG by Jacinta
Puja offering packages. Thanks to those who sponsored the puja. May all your wishes be fulfilled. KPSG by Jacinta
6 months ago
Puja offering packages. Thanks to those who sponsored the puja. May all your wishes be fulfilled. KPSG by Jacinta
Colourful altar with plenty of offerings. We had DS puja with Praise to Buddha Shakyamuni as we celebrate this special day of Buddha's Birth, Enlightenment and Parinirvana. KPSG by Jacinta
6 months ago
Colourful altar with plenty of offerings. We had DS puja with Praise to Buddha Shakyamuni as we celebrate this special day of Buddha's Birth, Enlightenment and Parinirvana. KPSG by Jacinta
Some of the activities done during the Wesak Day Celebration in Penang. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
6 months ago
Some of the activities done during the Wesak Day Celebration in Penang. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Wesak Day Celebration in Penang!Buddha's Bathing Ritual. 22/5/2024 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
6 months ago
Wesak Day Celebration in Penang!Buddha's Bathing Ritual. 22/5/2024 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
11/5/2024 Saturday @3pm. After puja, all members helped out clearing the offerings and we shared out the blessed food offerings with our families, friends and even animals. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
6 months ago
11/5/2024 Saturday @3pm. After puja, all members helped out clearing the offerings and we shared out the blessed food offerings with our families, friends and even animals. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
11/5/2024 Saturday @3pm. Activities during puja. Members chanting Dorje Shugden mantras. We've completed Dorje Shugden puja cum Namasangiti. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
6 months ago
11/5/2024 Saturday @3pm. Activities during puja. Members chanting Dorje Shugden mantras. We've completed Dorje Shugden puja cum Namasangiti. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
11/5/2024, Saturday @3pm. Activities : Offerings of khata to Rinpoche, garland of flowers to Dorje Shugden and a new Tibetan butterlamp being offered on the altar. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
6 months ago
11/5/2024, Saturday @3pm. Activities : Offerings of khata to Rinpoche, garland of flowers to Dorje Shugden and a new Tibetan butterlamp being offered on the altar. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Today we have an inaugural cancer free diet talk and info sharing by Mr. Ooi. Mr. Ooi is a Penangite and like any other man, he has a family to provide for. From colon cancer stage 4,he is now known as a cancer-free man. Learn more about his story and his acquaintance with Dorje Shugden here https://youtu.be/x7i-yXJBUwM?si=A-5O0udxjg52iS58
7 months ago
Today we have an inaugural cancer free diet talk and info sharing by Mr. Ooi. Mr. Ooi is a Penangite and like any other man, he has a family to provide for. From colon cancer stage 4,he is now known as a cancer-free man. Learn more about his story and his acquaintance with Dorje Shugden here https://youtu.be/x7i-yXJBUwM?si=A-5O0udxjg52iS58
The Promise
  These books will change your life
  Support Blog Team
Lamps For Life
  Robe Offerings
  Vajrayogini Stupa Fund
  Dana Offerings
  Soup Kitchen Project
 
Zong Rinpoche

Archives

YOUR FEEDBACK

Live Visitors Counter
Page Views By Country
United States 6,807,207
Malaysia 5,107,708
India 2,646,377
Singapore 976,092
United Kingdom 957,087
Bhutan 954,620
Nepal 949,959
Canada 832,806
Australia 658,654
Philippines 565,923
Indonesia 480,464
Germany 387,920
France 322,446
Brazil 266,871
Vietnam 244,280
Thailand 227,325
Taiwan 215,498
Italy 186,337
Spain 169,060
Netherlands 166,725
Mongolia 153,313
South Africa 143,653
Portugal 141,495
Türkiye 136,856
Sri Lanka 135,050
Hong Kong 131,385
Japan 128,613
United Arab Emirates 124,577
Russia 120,731
China 113,544
Romania 108,968
Mexico 102,859
New Zealand 97,136
Switzerland 95,136
Myanmar (Burma) 91,515
Pakistan 84,094
Sweden 82,896
South Korea 79,789
Cambodia 72,030
Poland 5,404
Total Pageviews: 27,208,931

Login

Dorje Shugden
Click to watch my talk about Dorje Shugden....