My First Guru in New Jersey
(By Tsem Rinpoche)
When I was 7 years old I was taken to New Jersey, USA. That was in 1972.
In 1971, the great Sera Mey Kensur Rinpoche Lobsang Tharchin arrived and was residing 10 minutes away from me.
I started receiving teachings from him. I found out that he had met Pabongka Rinpoche in Tibet and received teachings. Kensur Rinpoche was a very devoted disciple of Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche and Zong Rinpoche. And also was a great Abbot of Sera Mey Monastery who uplifted the educational standard of the whole monastery and paid off all their huge loans during his tenure. Sera Mey respects him tremendously.
I took my refuge vows and first initiations from this great master while in New Jersey.
What are the chances that I end up in faraway distant America and ten mins away is one of the greatest living masters of this century. I believed I collected very good merits from my previous life to be able to live so near a great master like this.
In the 1970’s USA, the Dharma was not very mainstream and teachers were very rare. So how lucky was I??? I always rejoice in this fact.
And amazed at my good fortune! Really I do.
When i received my initiations from Kensur Lobsang Tharchin, I determined to do the sadhanas and practices and up till now I have. I am forever grateful to him.
When I entered Gaden and was going to be a monk, Kensur Lobsang Tharchin was very pleased and gave me a big smile and said I was doing the right thing. Wow. He said I was doing the right thing. You wouldn’t know how much his words gave me great bliss. I trusted him fully.
When I met Zong Rinpoche later, I asked Kensur Lobsang Tharchin’s permission to study with him as Kensur Rinpoche was my first guru and I must have his permission. I had to move to California and hence couldn’t be with Kensur Lobsang Tharchin anymore. I left New Jersey at 16 and went to California because my step parents and I didn’t have karma to be together.
Kensur Lobsang Tharchin again was very pleased and granted his permission when I called him from California. If he didn’t, I would definitely not have gone.
When I arrived in Gaden and was very poor and had very little food to eat. I wrote relatives, parents and other ppl, but no one helped at all. I asked Kensur Lobsang Tharchin and he immediately arranged for one of his students to send me US$50 per month. Which at that time was more than enough for me to survive and be ok in Gaden.
I owe so much to this great master. As a child I would try to visit him as often as possible in New Jersey, but I was deathly afraid of him. I saw him as an enlightened being and I was just a cockroach or a nothing and felt so scared to disturb him.
I remember him fondly and miss him very much. I wish so much he was still here with us, as I would love to invite him to Kechara House to turn the wheel of dharma and bestow empowerments.
I trust him so much and tears stream down my face as I write this. I love Kensur Lobsang Tharchin so much and have tremendous faith in him. I always will. I hope one day I can benefit ppl like he did and gain the attainments that he definitely had.
He was a grand master of Sutra and Tantra. And he spoke wonderful English. But his specialty was the Lady Vajra Yogini. He is definitely one with Her. I am more fortunate to have met him than Lady Vajra Yogini Herself. I am sure She will understand why I say that.
I prostrate myself on the ground fully to you, Great Kensur Rinpoche Jetsun Lobsang Tharchin Pelsangpo and humbly ask you to bless my wild mindstream to think of others more than myself…
The immaculate incarnation of Kensur Jetsun Lobsang Tharchin has been found and recognized by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. His name is Tenzin Namdrol and is four years old and found in Mundgod, South India. He will be escorted to Gyalrong Khangtsen in Sera Mey (Bylakuppe-12 hours by car from Mundgod in South India) to be enthroned. My precious first guru is back!! I have never doubted him in any way, but seeing his precious incarnation again shows his great compassion to continue his works. I pray for his long life, and excellent activities to continue. His previous incarnation was a great master, lineage holder and accomplished Vajra Yogini Mahasiddha who was a direct disciple of the Incomparable Kyabje Pabongka Dorje Chang. I bow my head to the feet of this illustrious Choktrul Tenzin Namdrol.
For more interesting information:
- Why I Conceived of Kechara Soup Kitchen or KSK
- Happy family for Kalacakra
- It Wasn’t Easy in New Jersey, but My Cousins/Aunts Helped…
- I’m Requesting Ordination in 1987
- Kalmyk People’s Origin – VERY INTERESTING
- Tsem Rinpoche Bio Group Goes to USA
- Avalokiteshvara, Turkey Swamp, Marc & Me
- When I Had No One Else…
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It is a very fortunate event and blessing to be able to meet one’s guru at such a young age and living next door. Definitely it is not a coincident. How wonderful of Kensur Rinpoche helping Rinpoche during the difficult times at Ganden Monastery. Glad to know that Rinpoche ‘s precious first guru is back, after been recognized by HH Dalai Lama. And he is so cute!??Rinpoche is one example of Guru Devotion and we are fortunate to have Rinpoche here with us in Malaysia, guiding us in our spiritual path. Thank you very much Rinpoche for sharing such a beautiful highlight of Rinpoche first Guru in New Jersey??????
1984 Los Angeles-Left to right: Geshe Tsultrim Gyeltsen, His Holiness Kyabje Zong Rinpoche, monk assistant to Zong Rinpoche and the 18-year-old Tsem Rinpoche prior to ordination. Read more- https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/category/me
View
A poem inspired by seeing a picture of my teacher, Kyabje Zong Rinpoche…
In the sport of correct views,
all that is correct is just a view,
without permanence or substance.
As long as we hold onto views,
our sufferings are gathered
to be experienced without end.
Without the strong methods of emptiness
and compassion, bereft of merit,
we sink deeper without respite.
To arise from this samsara is but
a dreamscape on the deluded mind.
Therefore seek the guru, who confers the yidam,
hold your vows and fixate on liberation
free of new creations. Free of new experiences as
there are none.
~ Tsem Rinpoche
Composed in Tsem Ladrang, Kuala Lumpur on July 7, 2014
A sacred image of the rare form of Vajrayogini known as Ucheyma, the Buddha that shows us the path to eradicate the ego. For this and many other high-resolution images of the enlightened beings to download for free visit: https://bit.ly/2oxb4qU
Ucheyma (Severed Headed Vajrayogini) (Main figure)
(Top to bottom): H.H. the 7th Panchen Lama, Ucheyma (Severed Headed Vajrayogini), Vajra Varnani (green assistant), Vajra Vairocani (yellow assistant), Dorje Shugden and Citipati.
The central deity is known as Chinnamasta or Dorje Neljorma Ucheyma. Both Chinnamasta (Sanskrit) and Ucheyma (Tibetan) literally mean, ‘She Whose Head is Severed’. The meaning behind her form is to show practitioners that they need to completely remove the grasping and self-identification with the “I” or the ego. Generally, the identity of the self is strongly associated with our face more than any other part of our body. We usually recognise a person when we look at a person’s face. Hence, our self-identification or ego is strongly associated with our face. To show us that this self-identification needs to be overcome on the spiritual path to enlightenment, Vajrayogini uses her ritual chopper to decapitate herself. This is symbolic of her practice eradicating the ego.
The Severed Headed Vajrayogini, as she is also known, removes all afflictive mental constructs by removing the root cause – the identification of the self, the ego. We are either attached to or averse to people and circumstances because we have an ego to please, gratify and protect. But in the grander scheme of things, this self-identification with the ‘I’ is illusory and does not really exist. Therefore, Vajrayogini reveals this ultimate truth through the dramatic decapitation of her head and at the same time is still able to live and function. She is able to live due to her direct perception of emptiness and egolessness.
Contrary to what some people might think, the eradication of the self does not destroy individualism, our personality or make us into a mindless person. In fact, the eradication of the ego makes us become a vibrant and compassionate person, someone that has greater awareness of the suffering of others. In other words, we become much warmer, kinder, forgiving, tolerant, conscientious, generous, contemplative and we are become a joy to be with. The cutting of the ego or the ‘I’ brings us towards awakening our true self, the Buddha nature within.
The Severed Headed Vajrayogini has two dakini attendants. From the trunk of her neck, there are three severed blood vessels spurting three jets of blood that flow into the mouths of her own decapitated head that she carries in her left hand and into the mouths of her two attendants. Tsem Rinpoche explained that the three jets of blood represent that her practice purifies the three psychic poisons of ignorance, hatred and desire. In turn, this leads to the attainment of the three bodies of a Buddha – the emanation body, the enjoyment body and the truth body. In other words, the severance of the ego via her tantric path leads to the purification of all delusions and ultimately, the attainment of Buddhahood itself.
The 7th Panchen Lama, Palden Tenpai Nyima is featured floating above because of his compilation of sadhanas from the ancient Sadhanamala texts. This includes a particular sadhana or collection of prayers, visualisation and mantra focused on Ucheyma. Incidentally, Dorje Shugden in many of his previous lives was a lineage master of the Vajrayogini tantras as well. These previous lives include the likes of the Mahasiddha Naropa and Tsarchen Losel Gyatso. The Lord and Lady of the Charnel Ground, known as Citipati, are one of the main protectors of the Vajrayogini Tantra.
Last of all, the ascetic meditator engaging in his devotional practices towards Ucheyma in the cemetery represents the ideal environment for tantric practice because such environments invoke deep renunciation towards worldly affairs and attachments. All Buddhist traditions advocate meditating on the bones of the deceased because it reminds us of our mortality and hence, we develop revulsion towards the transient nature of worldly or ordinary existence.
More free downloads: https://bit.ly/2oxb4qU
Read more about Vajrayogini: https://bit.ly/2iVLCuG
Ucheyma (Severed Headed Vajrayogini) (Main figure)
(Top to bottom): Maitri Kacho (Flying Vajrayogini), Maitri Kacho (One-Leg Up Vajrayogini), Naro Kacho, Sukhasiddhi, Ucheyma (Severed Headed Vajrayogini), Vajra Varnani (green assistant), Vajra Vairocani (yellow assistant), Citipati, Vajravarahi and Dorje Shugden.
The central deity is known as Severed Headed Vajrayogini, Chinnamasta or Dorje Neljorma Ucheyma. Both Chinnamasta (Sanskrit) and Ucheyma (Tibetan) literally mean, ‘She Whose Head is Severed’. The meaning behind her form is to show practitioners that they need to completely remove the grasping and self-identification with the “I” or the ego. Generally, the identity of the self is strongly associated with our face more than any other part of our body. We usually recognise a person when we look at a person’s face. Hence, our self-identification or ego is strongly associated with our face. To show us that this self-identification needs to be overcome on the spiritual path to enlightenment, Vajrayogini uses her ritual chopper to decapitate herself. This is symbolic of her practice eradicating the ego.
The Severed Headed Vajrayogini removes all afflictive mental constructs by removing the root cause – the identification of the self, the ego. We are either attached to or averse to people and circumstances because we have an ego to please, gratify and protect. But in the grander scheme of things, this self-identification with the ‘I’ is illusory and does not really exist. Therefore, Vajrayogini reveals this ultimate truth through the dramatic decapitation of her head and at the same time is still able to live and function. She is able to live due to her direct perception of emptiness and egolessness.
Contrary to what some people might think, the eradication of the self does not destroy individualism, our personality or make us into a mindless person. In fact, the eradication of the ego makes us become a vibrant and compassionate person, someone that has greater awareness of the suffering of others. In other words, we become much warmer, kinder, forgiving, tolerant, conscientious, generous, contemplative and we are become a joy to be with. The cutting of the ego or the ‘I’ brings us towards awakening our true self, the Buddha nature within.
The Severed Headed Vajrayogini has two dakini attendants. From the trunk of her neck, there are three severed blood vessels spurting three jets of blood that flow into the mouths of her own decapitated head that she carries in her left hand and into the mouths of her two attendants. Tsem Rinpoche explained that the three jets of blood represent that her practice purifies the three psychic poisons of ignorance, hatred and desire. In turn, this leads to the attainment of the three bodies of a Buddha – the emanation body, the enjoyment body and the truth body. In other words, the severance of the ego via her tantric path leads to the purification of all delusions and ultimately, the attainment of Buddhahood itself.
Severed Headed Vajrayogini is surrounded by some of her other forms, including Naro Kacho, two forms of Maitri Kacho, Sukhasiddhi and Vajravarahi. These forms of Vajrayogini are more commonly practised compared to Severed Headed Vajrayogini and are prevalent in most Tibetan Buddhist lineages. Though they may look different, all forms are indivisible from her true nature and all her practices can lead practitioners to enlightenment. Naro Kacho arose from a vision beheld by the Mahasiddha Naropa, Maitri Kacho from a vision beheld by Maitripa, and Indra Kacho from a vision beheld by Indrabodhi. The Lord and Lady of the Charnel Ground, known as Citipati, are one of the main protectors of the Vajrayogini Tantra.
Last of all, Dorje Shugden is a protector with special affinity with Vajrayogini practitioners because he arose from an incarnation lineage that includes Naropa and Tsarchen Losel Gyatso who practised and proliferated her Tantra.
More free downloads: https://bit.ly/2oxb4qU
Read more about Vajrayogini: https://bit.ly/2iVLCuG
Vajrayogini (Main figure)
(Top to bottom): Naropa, Vajradharma, Hero Vajradharma, Naro Kacho, Maitri Kacho (Flying Vajrayogini), Dorje Shugden and Vajravarahi.
Vajrayogini is a female tantric Buddha and she has many forms that are derived from various lineages. She mainly embodies the fully enlightened female (shakti) aspect of a Buddha. She belongs to the Mother Tantra classification, which refers to her practice concentrating on the wisdom aspect of the path to Buddhahood. She is also the principal dakini, the compassionate female guides and nurturers of tantric meditation who lead practitioners to enlightenment. In the thangka, the main figure in the middle is Naro Kechari as she arose from the pure vision of the Mahasiddha Naropa.
In Anuttara (Highest) Yoga Tantra, principal dakinis normally appear in union with a male consort and this can be seen in the cases of deities such as Guhyasamaja, Hevajra, and Kalachakra. In the case of Vajrayogini, she is the principal female Buddha of the Chakrasamvara Tantra and therefore, she is normally in union with Heruka Chakrasamvara. Furthermore, Vajrayogini is also considered a Vajradakini, who are yidams or meditational deities in their own right. Their practices have evolved from the main practices of their consorts, simplifying the otherwise complicated original practice by reducing it to a single-deity meditation without sacrificing the main benefits and features of the original. Hence, Vajradakini practices such as Vajrayogini and Nairatmya are derived from the original Chakrasamvara Tantra and Hevajra Tantra respectively.
In essence, Vajrayogini is known as “Sarvabuddha-dakini” or the Dakini Who is the Essence of all Buddhas. Her mantra is known as the King of All Mantras as it has the most powerful ability to bless us with spiritual attainments even without any visualisation or meditation. There are 11 Yogas in the generation stage of her practice and a few which have the power of transforming ordinary actions like sleeping, waking and ordinary daily tasks into a collection of merits. Ultimately, her Tantra offers salvation for ordinary practitioners at death with her special promise of guiding practitioners towards Kechara, or the Paradise of the Dakinis, in which we can continue deep practices to become a Buddha without fear, obstacles and interruptions.
Within Vajrayogini practice, soliciting the blessings of the lama and the lineage master are of paramount importance in order for our practice to bear results. Hence, the lama is visualised as the red Vajradharma with arms crossed at the heart, holding the vajra and bell. The lineage masters are visualised as Hero Vajradharma, holding a damaru and skullcup while cradling a khatvanga. Aside from the main Naro Kechari form, Vajrayogini also appears in the form of Maitri Kechari, who is known as Flying Vajrayogini, and arose from the vision of Maitripa. Another common form is known as Indra Kechari, or Vajravarahi, who arose from the vision of Indrabodhi.
Last of all, Dorje Shugden is a Dharma protector with a special affinity with Vajrayogini practitioners. This is because he himself arose from an incarnation lineage that includes the likes of Naropa, the progenitor of Naro Kechari practice, and Tsarchen Losel Gyatso who had practised and proliferated her Tantra and is listed as one the lineage masters invoked upon every day by Vajrayogini practitioners.
More free downloads: https://bit.ly/2oxb4qU
Read more about Vajrayogini: https://bit.ly/2iVLCuG
Original illustration and text posted by Eric D Hatchell as a reply to H.E. Tsem Tulku Rinpoche’s facebook post on Vajrayogini here: http://bit.ly/VYogini0001
The Dākiṇī with the Essence of all Buddhas, Vajrayoginī
Her practice includes methods to end the otherwise repetitive states of Bardo and rebirth, by transforming the process into a journey, which may lead to full enlightenment. In preparation for which, Vajrayoginī further offers the omnipresent ability to reconstruct the nature of the most, mundane everyday experiences, such that they may reveal higher destinations, via the spiritual paths she may choose to reveal. [1] Vajrayoginī being defined as, “The Dākiṇī who is the Essence of all Buddhas”, [2] is amplified by scholar Miranda Shaw when she implied that this deity is no less than, the supreme nature of the very Tantric pantheon. No male Buddha, including her divine consort, Heruka-Cakrasaṃvara, further advances her in metaphysical implications. [3]
Vajrayoginī’s sādhanā originates from India circa 10/12th C, [4] when summoned as Heruka-Cakrasaṃvara’s Yab-Yum consort [5], with later forms including Vajrayoginī as “Solitary Hero”, she may be visualized with the deep red complexion of a 16-year-old female, whose stance is nude amidst a blazing fire of pristine awareness and most exalted wisdom. Her head is adorned with a crown of five skulls and upon her forehead, the third eye of wisdom is set vertically (represented here by an auspicious jewel). She drapes a necklace of fifty dried human skulls and is depicted with her traditional vajra-handled knife in her right hand; with a blood filled kapala in her left, she drinks with upturned head while looking above, toward the pure realm of Khechara. This seemingly gruesome gesture is actually symbolic of her clear light in great joy, known as “mahasukha” (the great bliss), [6] [7] thus the blood she drinks may be offered to us all as if a fine wine.
Resting on the left shoulder is a Katvanga staff as she stands tall with her two feet, trampling the bodies of red Kalaratri and black Bhairava (with heads bending backward), representing the embodiment of illusion and ego-awareness. The composition, all of which rests above a sun disc and multicolored lotus pedestal, she is rendered here after a thankga of Naropa Tradition (passed down from a special teaching of the Indian Mahasiddha Naropa). Vajrayoginī herself may be classified as the personification of “Wisdom” or “Mother” and her practice originates with the Chakrasamvara Cycle of Tantras, which is one of the five principal tantric practices of the Sakya School, although found in one form or another, she is included in all schools of Tibetan Buddhism. [8]
Vajrayoginī also appears in versions from the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism, with one popular system having the practitioner visualize themselves as Vajrayoginī, as such, their guru taking the form of Milarepa. [9] Thus depicted above the central deity here we see Milarepa on our right, with his great Guru Marpa left (whose guru was Naropa himself, and other great Indian masters). [10]
Vajrayoginī is a simplified, single most form of the female Buddha, who is otherwise a collection of alternate forms. From her sādhanās she is visualized in English terms as “Vajra Sow”, “Wrathful Lady”, “Fierce Black One”, and other such similar manifestations of female energy found in numerous iconographic renderings and traditions. Each feature of Vajrayoginī’s visualization conveys important spiritual concept. For example, her three eyes indicate her ability to see all (past, present and future); her red-colored body symbolizes the blazing of her ”inner fire”, and the curved knife she wields, demonstrates the power to sever the delusions and obstacles of her followers and of all living beings. [11]
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Wordmarque Design and Photography
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References:
[1] Gyatso, Kelsang. Guide to Dakini Land: The Highest Yoga Tantra Practice of Buddha Vajrayogini. London: Tharpa, 1996, p.xii.
[2] “The Berzin Archives.” Bonding Practices for Mother Tantra. Accessed February 18, 2016. http://www.berzinarchives.com/…/bonding_prac_mother_tantra_….
[3] Shaw, Miranda Eberle. Buddhist Goddesses of India. Princeton: Princeton University Press, 2006, p. 8.
[4] English, Elizabeth. Vajrayoginī: Her Visualizations, Rituals & Forms: A Study of the Cult of Vajrayoginī in India. Boston: Wisdom Publications, 2002.
[5] “Vajrasattva (Buddhist Deity) – White (with Consort).” Vajrasattva (Buddhist Deity). Accessed February 18, 2016. http://www.himalayanart.org/items/77598.
[6] Gyatso, Kelsang. Guide to Dakini Land: The Highest Yoga Tantra Practice of Buddha Vajrayogini. London: Tharpa, 1996 p. 123-127.
[7] Glenn H. Mullin
[8] “Item: Vajrayogini (Buddhist Deity) – (Naropa Tradition).” Vajrayogini (Buddhist Deity). Accessed February 18, 2016. http://www.himalayanart.org/items/290.
[9] English, Elizabeth. Vajrayoginī: Her Visualizations, Rituals & Forms: A Study of the Cult of Vajrayoginī in India. Boston: Wisdom Publications, 2002, p. xxiii.
[10] Drinking the Mountain Stream: Songs of Tibet’s Beloved Saint, Milarepa … by Mi-la-ras-pa, Rinpoche Lama Kunga, Brian Cutillo, p.305.
[11] Gyatso, Kelsang. Guide to Dakini Land: The Highest Yoga Tantra Practice of Buddha Vajrayogini. London: Tharpa, 1996, p.123-127.
I was walking past a second hand shop on Western Ave selling old things. They had a Japanese-style clay Buddha which was beige in colour on the floor, holding the door open. I thought the shopkeeper would collect a lot of negative karma without knowing if he kept such a holy item on the floor as a doorstop. So I went in to talk to him, but he didn’t look like he wanted to talk or that he even cared. So I asked him the price and he said US$5. I purchased it so he did not collect more negative karma. I was 17 years old and that was in 1982.
I escorted my new Buddha home and washed it lightly and wiped it. I placed it on my altar and was happy with the Buddha. I would do my meditations, prayers, sadhanas, mantras and prostrations in front of this shrine daily. When I left for India in 1987, I could not bring this Buddha along and gave it to a friend. It was a nice size and I made offerings to this Buddha for many years in Los Angeles. In front of the Buddha I placed His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s photo. I remember I was so relieved that the price was affordable. But US$5 that time was still expensive for me but worth it I thought. But I was happy to have brought the Buddha home. Tsem Rinpoche
https://www.tsemrinpoche.com
The current form of Naro Kacho Vajra Yogini appeared to the Indian Mahasiddha Naropa after he meditated intensely on her practice inside a cave. He beheld her glorious form in a vision. This unique form became known as Naropa’s Vajra Yogini or Naro Kacho, as it had never existed before. Later, in Tibet, His Holiness Kyabje Pabongka Rinpoche also had visions of Vajra Yogini. His vision differed slightly from the vision of her that Naropa beheld. In the original Naro Kacho form, Vajra Yogini looks towards her pure land named Kechara. However in Kyabje Pabongka Rinpoche’s vision, she looked straight at him, symbolic of the deity empowering him to bestow her practice to many people in order to benefit them. The practice of Vajra Yogini belongs to the Highest Yoga Tantra classification that leads to tremendous inner transformation and can even grant enlightenment within just one lifetime.
Video of Tsem Rinpoche’s shrine taken July 16, 2018. Very beautiful, well done and meticulous.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LPAfpMoN2bA
Video of Tsem Rinpoche’s shrine taken July 16, 2018.
Very beautiful, well done and meticulous.
https://video.tsemtulku.com/chat-videos/chat-1531752637.mp4
Tsem Rinpoche at Kechara Forest Retreat, Bentong, Malaysia
Vajra Yogini has many different forms and in each of these forms, the positioning of her sacred body, the various implements she holds and the expressions on her face have profound meaning into various aspects of enlightenment. The implements she holds, the expressions on her face, and her body symbolise specific aspects of enlightenment that suit people during a particular time and place according to their karma. So, therefore, Vajra Yogini’s pose, forms and emanations change over time in order to suit different karmically-connected practitioners. It will keep changing because enlightenment is fluid, compassionate and skilful. To gaze upon Vajra Yogini is to look at a complete ‘roadmap’ to enlightenment as every aspect of her body is a manifestation of enlightenment. Therefore to have her form, picture, painting or statue is very blessed. We should make offerings to her daily diligently.
After the great Mahasiddha Naropa had served his guru the Mahasiddha Tilopa for 12 years, Tilopa conferred the Vajra Varahi (another form of Vajra Yogini) initiation with full instructions unto Naropa. Then, Naropa diligently meditated on Vajra Varahi and had a vision of her, and when she appeared to him directly, she appeared in the form of Vajra Yogini. Normally, when he engaged in the Vajra Yogini (Vajravarahi) practice, she was in the form of facing him directly, holding a skull cup and a curved flaying knife in front of her heart. One leg was up and one leg was down as in a dancing pose. That was the form of Vajra Yogini that he had meditated on to gain the highest attainments.
After he had meditated on Vajra Varahi and gained visions of her, she appeared to him in a different form, with her face looking up at Kechara Paradise instead of facing him directly. Her left hand holding the skullcup was thrust in the air and her right hand holding the curved flaying knife, also known as a cemetery knife was facing down at sentient beings or samsara to help beings cut their bonds to suffering. Her left leg was bent, and her right extended while standing in a pose of looking towards Kechara Paradise like she is about to take off there. This form signifies she will take you there and out of suffering. That form of Vajra Yogini became special and that was called Naro Kacho or the Vajra Yogini of Naropa. This Naropa’s Vajra Yogini was initiated to the Nepalese Pamtingpa brothers and they meditated diligently and this tradition of Naropa’s Vajra Yogini just became prevalent and took off from there. Naropa started initiating his other disciples as well into this special form of Vajra Yogini and she became known as Naropa’s Vajra Yogini till this day and it is considered a highly blessed lineage. That is the lineage we have now and most prevalent.
She is looking up because this Naropa’s Vajra Yogini is indicating she will lead her practitioners to her Kechara Paradise within one lifetime if you are diligent in her practice. Realizing enlightenment is harder for people in today’s world and needs more time during Kaliyuga degenerate period, she leads you to her paradise where you can practice undisturbed to Buddha-hood.
In this brilliant artwork, what you see is the Mahasiddha Naropa having a direct vision of Vajra Yogini. It’s the first time she has appeared to Naropa in this form. This form is associated with Naropa. Prior to Naropa, this form of Vajra Yogini did not exist. She in this vision is initiating him into this form (Naro Kacho) of herself indicating this form will be most efficacious now according to our karmic period. In the background, you will see a cave with a light in it because when Naropa used to meditate in that cave, it is said that from his body would emit a light and people could see it from afar. You can also see animals surrounding Vajra Yogini, they can feel her compassion and her great blessings and they are at peace around her.
Vajra Yogini brings peace, love, compassion, wisdom and freedom to everyone who practices her incredibly powerful tantra. Therefore, this artwork is a very beautiful representation of the time when Naropa had a vision of Vajra Yogini in this form for the first time and it is now known as Naropa’s Vajra Yogini. This artwork was offered to me as a gift from a very talented artist. I deeply appreciate this piece of visual spirituality very much.
Tsem Rinpoche
To download for your shrine, please click here: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=62528
Thank you Rinpoche for sharing the wonderful meeting your first Guru …… Kensur Rinpoche in New Jersey. Meeting your first Guru at such a young age is a memory to treasure. And could not imagine , Kensur Rinpoche was then staying 10 minutes walk from where Rinpoche staying. How wonderful of Kensur Rinpoche helping Rinpoche during the difficult times at Ganden Monastery. Glad to know that Rinpoche ‘s precious first guru is back, after been recognized by HH Dalai Lama.
Rinpoche is one example of Guru Devotion and we are fortunate to have Rinpoche here with us in Malaysia, guiding us in our spiritual path.
H.E. the 25th Tsem Rinpoche is very devoted to his root guru, H.H. Zong Rinpoche.
From Tsem Rinpoche: Every person who has Maha-anuttaratantra empowerments (Eg. Heruka, Guhyasamaja, Yamantaka, Vajra Yogini, Chittamani-Tara, Kalacakra, Hevajra, Gyalwa Gyatso Chenresig, etc) should keep a copy of this on their shrine or prayer book. These are all the ritual items tantric practitioner must keep by commitment. If it is in picture form, it is alright also.
Dear Tsem Rinpoche,
Today please accept my deepest gratitude for posting about Khen Rinpoche’s return. Though dull minded, Rinpoche is one of my precious teachers for this lifetime during His time in NJ and until His holy ‘death’. It is due to your kindness that the karma arose for me to find out. Words truly cannot convey my gratitude. Please have a long steady life. with kind regards, Ellen
Hi Ellen,
It’s very nice to hear from another one of Kensur Rinpoche’s students. Thank you for coming to leave a comment on Rinpoche’s blog.
Rinpoche speaks very, very affectionately and devotedly about Kensur Rinpoche, and has told us many stories of his time with this grand master. So although Rinpoche’s students in Malaysia have never had the merits to meet Kensur Rinpoche, we get some sense of the kind of practitioner and the attained being that he was.
Have you got any stories? I hope you will be able to share some with us here, if you feel comfortable of course, so that more people can learn about the greatness of your lama through his students’ eyes.
Thank you,
Pastor Jean Ai
Dear Ellen,
Welcome to H.E. Tsem Rinpoche’s blog. I rejoice to know that you are able to find out about the incarnation of your precious teacher, Khen Rinpoche.
H.E. Tsem Rinpoche always speaks about his tremendous gratitude for Khen Rinpoche who has been very kind to Rinpoche, especially when Rinpoche suffered much abuse at home in New Jersey.
There is more information here that perhaps you may be interested in on the blog, which I have listed below:
1. Did you know this about Pabongka Rinpoche?
https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/pabongka-wasnt-pabongka.html
– Recount of Kyabje Pabongka Rinpoche by Khen Rinpoche, from the book “Tsongkhapa: The Principal Teachings of Buddhism”, translated by Khen Rinpoche
2. 1972 – 1982: America– New Jersey from H.E. Tsem Rinpoche’s biography
https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/h-e-the-25th-tsem-tulku-rinpoches-biography.html#tabs-3
– Rinpoche’s years in New Jersey, including receiving Vajrayogini initiation from Khen Rinpoche
3. Buddhas, Dharma & Practice category on this blog
https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/category/buddhas-dharma
Various articles on the topics of Buddhas, Dharma & Practice
Nice to meet you here on the blog.
Pastor Shin
Dear Rinpoche ,
Thank you for sharing this great news of Kensur Rinpoche reincarnation had been located and soon will be brought back to the monastery.
I remember from Rinpoche’s biography that Kensur Rinpoche is a very serious guru to him. He never showed any signs of his love for Rinpoche until the very last moment of relationship.
Kensur Rinpoche had put up against Dana’s harassment be accusation to protect little Rinpoche. Whenever Rinpoche needed help, Kensur Rinpoche will try his best to help him. An example will be the Rinpoche is very poor in India. He wrote an letter to Kensur Rinpoche and immediately Kensur Rinpoche arranged someone to sponsor young Rinpoche monthly. I rejoice for Kensur Rinpoche’s compassion and choice to be reborn here again.
Humbly,
Chris Chong
[…] https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/me/my-first-guru-in-new-jersey.html […]
Thank you Rinpoche for sharing on this important life events back in New Jersey. Tsem Rinpoche has gone through all the extreme challenges and many obstacles since at His age of 7 before Rinpoche brought the Dharma to our country in Malaysia. Meeting Kensur Rinpoche Lobsang Tharchin and Zong Rinpoche were truly important for Tsem Rinpoche to start the Dharma at His young age. Despite having many obstacles and hardship starting from New Jersey, California and Gaden in India, Tsem Rinpoche has never given up the Dharma and even looking for every possible way to get the funding so that Rinpoche can pursue His learning and practice in Gaden, India. Rinpoche has shown to us with his practice of solid guru devotion to both Kensur Rinpoche Lobsang Tharchin and Zong Rinpoche. May all living beings be inspired by Rinpoche’s hard work and strong determination to bring the Dharma to anyone who have yet to hear or receive the Dharma. May Rinpoche gain good health, long life and continue to turn the wheel of Dharma. I pray for my both parents and all the people i have met, to have good rebirth in their future lifetimes and achieve Buddhahood, be freed from all sufferings and gain the ultimate happiness.
[…] MY FIRST GURU IN NEW JERSEY https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/me/my-first-guru-in-new-jersey.html […]
It is a very fortunate event and blessing to be able to meet one’s guru at such a young age and living next door. Definitely it is not a coincident. What happens meeting our guru? To receive the teachings and putting it to use in our lives. This applies to all of us who have met our guru one way or another because we have receiving the good opportunity to grow spiritually from our past deeds. Therefore it is never too late to practice. Give ourselves a chance 🙂
Tsem Rinpoche is so lucky and definitely Rinpoche has numerous merits and strong imprints in Dharma to meet Kensur Lobsang Tharchin Rinpoche at the age of 7 and Kensur Lobsang Tharchin Rinpoche was residing just 10 minutes away from Tsem Rinpoche. And Rinpoche got the first initiation, the Vajrayogini initiation from Kensur Lobsang Tharchin Rinpoche. Vajrayogini practice is an important practice to Tsem Rinpoche, that is also why the Dharma center that Tsem Rinpoche founded a few years back is named as Kechara (Vajrayogini’s heaven). Moreover, Kensur Lobsang Tharchin Rinpoche was a strong practitioner of Vajrayogini. There are many things that matched in these 2 Rinpoche.
I met my first Guru at the age of 20. May I have the same qualities as my Guru and never be parted from my Guru life after life.
Words are a pale reflection of what I feel in terms of realizing the preciousness of Rinpoche to us, his students.Reading about the return of your precious first guru as a four year old, makes me feel so scared and frightened at the thought that I’m letting every day slip by without creating great causes for you to remain, and for you to have no obstacles to continue to rain down on us in Kechara, all your students and all mother beings, your immeasurable acts of equal and great compassion.
If anything were to happen and we lose you,we will lose all our hopes and dreams of realizing the benefits of this precious optimum human rebirth used meaningfully for the benefit of all.
May I in every moment of my life, remember your great kindness and love,may I always hold dear to my heart Guru Devotion, may I always work hard at mind transformation and to realize the Dharma in me, may you live in my heart and mind always.
The amount of merits collected by Rinpoche through many life times had created the cause for Rinpoche to meet Kensur Rinpoche at such a young age and to live so near his Guru. Even after so many years had past yet Rinpoche’s still showed the great affection and Guru Devotion to Kensur Lobsang Tharchin. It is very rare nowadays for students to show so much guru devotion. Even though the Guru is near us and care for us, we take things for granted and find every excuse not to listen to what the Guru tell us and create the cause to be away from the Guru.
How fortunate we are to have Rinpoche here with us in Malaysia to guide us in our spiritual path. Rinpoche is a perfect example of Guru Devotion for us to emulate. May we never be separated from our Guru who has given us so much love and care. Thank you, Rinpoche.
I am very happy that I can be connected to Sera Mey Kensur Rinpoche Lobsang Tharchin. He was Tsem Rinpoche’s first guru. It is through Tsem Rinpoche being my Guru that I am able to connect with these great masters. As my Karma is to be connected with the Gelupa Lineage. I feel I have the affinity to be connected to most Gelupa Lamas and gurus that happen to be Tsem Rinpoche’s Guru also. Great Masters and Gurus like Kensur Jampa Yeshe Rinpoche, Lama Zopa, Lati Rinpoche, Zong Rinpoche,Trijang Rinpoche and Dalal Lama eventually leading to Lama Tsongkapa. I also have to thank my first Mahayana guru who has been the link for me to be in Vajrayana Buddhism.
the baby is very cute but he seems to be giving someone the look… it’s like a teaching not to make a fuss over things while everyone is making a big fuss
When I was in the agr of five to six, me and my parents and my grandmother lived for a period of one year in Westfield, New Jersey, USA. This must have been in 1967/1968. My father, a mathematician had been invited to the USA to work on an institute for shipbuilding.
This was probably the beginning of the most beautiful time of my childhood, and I had the great advantage to have many friends and to learn the english language in an early age… not knowing that this would change my life forever. 🙂
[…] http://blog.tsemtulku.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/2010/08/my-first-guru-in-new-jersey.html […]
Tsem Rinpoche started getting teachings from Kensur Rinpoche Jetson Lobsang Tharchin Palsangpo when he was 7 years old. Rinpoche took his first refuge vows from Kensur Rinpoche Lobsang Tharchin in New Jersey. When Rinpoche came to Ganden Monastery to become a monk he was very poor. Hed contacted his Guru Kensur Guru Lobsang Tharchin and told him of his plight. Kensur Rinpoche then sent our Rinpoche money to help him survive in the Monastery. Tsem Rinpoche is doing the same thing his Guru has done for him to some of his students. Giving them financial aid when needed. Even buying necessities for everyone. When I read this blog I think about my own situation. How much Rinpoche loved me and that stupid mule in me never realised it. I can never ever be able to repay Rinpoche’s kindness and love in this life.
May many more great masters return to turn the wheel of dharma for unfortunate migrators all over. So nice to know another eminent master has returned once again to bring happiness to others.
I am most touched by what Rinpoche says here:
“When I entered Gaden and was going to be a monk, Kensur Lobsang Tharchin was very pleased and gave me a big smile and said I was doing the right thing. Wow. He said I was doing the right thing. You wouldn’t know how much his words gave me great bliss. I trusted him fully.”
Rinpoche shows us really, what Guru devotion is about – having such utmost respect for what the Guru represents and his teachings to us. It takes so little from Rinpoche’s Gurus to inspire him to practice because he holds every word dear and true and powerful.
There is much for us to contemplate on ourselves – are we taking our teachers’ words seriously and with the respect he deserves? Or do we take him and all his teachings for granted? Rinpoche does SO MUCH for us – so much praise, compliments, jokes, cajoling, love, counselling, advice… what are we doing to repay all his teachings and reflect them well?
Thank you Rinpoche for sharing your experiences; it is by these deeply personal insights that we too are inspired towards a much more meaningful and beneficial practice following Rinpoche’s own example.
with folded hands, Paris
Thank you for sharing this photo of Kensur Rinpoche’s new incarnation. I love seeing the incarnations coming back. It is 100% proof that reincarnation exists. There is no other explanation. The only difference between us and these precious incarnations is that they choose to come back to benefit others. Right now, most of us have no choice where we will end up when we die, and yet so many people do not even worry about this. I pray that I will have the merits to receive Vajrayogini’s practice in the future and to do so, Rinpoche has been so kind to give us the steps to get started: http://blog.tsemtulku.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/2010/06/starting-on-vajra-yogini-now.html.
Like all the great Masters, Tsem Rinpoche’s sole purpose to be here is to benefit others and I know Rinpoche has been continuously returning life after life for this reason. May I create the causes to always be near Rinpoche until i am enlightened. Thank you Rinpoche for being here with your unworthy student and blessing my family and i with the Dharma.
Reading Rinpoche’s post of meeting Kensur Rinpoche, His first Guru, got me thinking and recalling my life BR and AR (Before Rinpoche and After Rinpoche). I cannot express myself with the same spiritual eloquence as most of Tsem Tulku Rinpoche’s students…my experience with Dharma is less than 3 months old. Until recently i was a strong believer and practitioner of another religion but it was only after meeting Rinpoche that i realised the true meaning of spirituality.
To what do i owe this privilege of meeting Tsem Tulku Rinpoche in my mid 40’s after having spent at least more than half of my life in wordly pursuits and travelling down the wrong path. Reading through the other comments herein, i can only guess that i had gathered sufficient merits previously to meet Rinpoche in this lifetime – i certainly did not earn it myself this time.
Friends ask me how i could so easily change and convert.I can only tell them that the truth in the words that come out of Rinpoche’s mouth, the strong and undeniable compassion and care that one feels when in His presence and the sudden uplifting of the heavy load of grief in that moment of epiphany and understanding, and the serendipity of it all…made it very easy.
In a similar way to Tsem Tulku Rinpoche owing much to Kensur Rinpoche, i owe all to Tsem Tulku Rinpoche for reaching so deeply into the abyss to pull my head out of the water. My life has changed forever and i am all the better for it. For a start i am happy…and happier when doing something good for others, and happiest when Rinpoche suddenly drops in.
Every day Rinpoche teaches me, and even though i have yet to take my refuge vows, in my heart Tsem Tulku is my Guru. And I agree fully with Datuk May that, in gratitude, i must live a better and meaningful life.
I rejoice for i have met my Guru. Thank you Rinpoche.
It really takes a tremendous amount of merits in the 1970s in New Jersey, USA, for Tsem Rinpoche to have the opportunity to have met Kensur Lobsang Tharchin and gained so much teaching from a great master. This is evidence of the amount of good Karma which Rinpoche has accumulated lives after lives.
How very fortunate that I now have the chance to be Tsem Rinpoche’s student. Having the opportunity to be Tsem Rinpoche’s student is just the beginning for me to be very aware to emanate my Guru’s virtues and of this, I will do my level best. Rinpoche teaches that the best way to live life is to be in contribution to benefit others. This seems like a simple teaching but practice can be daunting. In practising this one single teaching of Rinpoche, has given me great purpose in my life.
Reading Rinpoche’s article on his first Guru, shows how much respect, Rinpoche has for his teachers that Rinpoche would seek Kensur Lobsang Tharchin’s permission to study with Zong Rinpoche. True Guru Devotion stamps from great gratitude for what our Guru has taught us whereby we have a better life.
Thank you, Kensur Lobsang Tharchin and Tsem Rinpoche.
Dear Rinpoche,
With great respect, I would like to humbly offer my opinion and say that you have done the great masters, under whom you studied, a great service by being such an excellent reflection of their compassion, wisdom and virtue.
As a result of Kensur Rinpoche’s great kindness to instruct you in the Dharma, we your students have come to be greatly blessed to be instructed in the Dharma by you. Your infinite patience and tireless dedication to teaching the Dharma to us is certainly something I can never put into words in terms of how much gratitude I feel towards your selfless commitment to benefit others.
In my continuous struggle to push myself free from my ignorant mind, I humbly fold my hands to you and pray that I continue to receive your wisdom and complete guidance until liberation.
Kindest regards,
Sandy
Thank you Rinpoche for sharing with us about Kensur Rinpoche Lobsang Tarchin, who was Rinpoche’s first guru. Kensur Rinpoche was the student of Kybje Trijang Rinpoche and Zong Rinpoche who are both students of Kybje Pabongka Rinpoche. I am so glad that Rinpoche somehow or rather connected back to Rinpoche’s lineage again although Rinpoche was forced to be sent away. The merits was so strong and i believed Rinpoche is the lineage holder. At the end, the great master was so near to Rinpoche once again. There is Rinpoche’s guru devotion is so strong that no one can compete which we all must learn. i will push myself and have good guru devotion with Rinpoche. Commitment is the key..
It is a harsh and hard life that His Eminence Tsem Tulku Rinpoche has experienced. But what is even harder and rare is the precious opportunity he had to be with such
great teachers.
And now, it is my great fortune as well as others to have received teachings from him without the harshness of life that our Guru has experienced. I am really happy as I get to be a part of Kechara House and to have Tsem Tulku Rinpoche as my guru. I understand that in order for us to have a better life, all of us need as much merits as we can accumulate to gain enlightenment in future.
Thank you, Tsem Tulku Rinpoche for everything!
Rinpoche’s love for his gurus is very admirable. Even by reading Rinpoche’s accounts of his guru moves my heart to the brink of tears.
It is because of Rinpoche’s previous lives’ dharma work and of course, attainments that created the karma for him to be near elite dharma teachers.
What stuck out in my mind after reading this post is that Rinpoche still has a strong bond and love for his first guru even after so many years have past. It is very rare nowadays to encounter anyone who’s faith and love for another person to remain so strong irregardless of time.
Rinpoche always say that we should never forget other’s kindness to us and that we should always repay their kindness. With the study and practice of the dharma as shown by Rinpoche’s actions and results, I am certain that we can all acquire this wonderful trait. Then, there would be less suffering around us.
Dear Rinpoche,
Just by reading this few paragraphs on your relationship with your Guru brings out a mix feeling of awe and shame in me at the same time.
I am awed with your example of ultimate Guru devotion, your unwavering conviction and faith in your Guru. How after many years on since his passing, you still hold him so, so dear to your heart. How his imprints in you have made you who you are today. Just by looking at your conduct/ motivations. I can vaguely imagine what a great master he is, as the student is a manifestation of his Guru. (In a certain degree) You are truly blessed to have found such a master and we are lucky to have found you.
The shame in me arises from my conduct & though I ‘truthfully’ do not have anything to show in my Guru devotion to you. So shameful… As much as I hold you in high regards, it is nothing compared to your level of devotion to your Guru… You have really set the bar very high…
I’ve only met you in person a few times, I hope I will have the time and opportunity to work on my Guru devotion. As who else would offer me salvation without any conditions.
Kenny Wong
(Kwok Wai’s bro)
I truly believe it is a collection of very good merits from previous lives to live so near a great master and also for a seven-year-old boy living in New Jersey, USA to appreciate that fact. Most seven-year-old boys would have a host of other things they would rather do than to think of taking refuge vows and initiations.
It is also amazing for a child to even recognize and see someone as an enlightened Being. Is it also an imprint from previous lives? And yes, there is nothing better in the whole wide world than to have our Guru’s blessings and approval for the things we pursue.
Dear Rinpoche, thank you for sharing about your childhood , my heart felt warm after read about how strong your guru devotion towards your first teacher, Kensur Lobsang Tharchin. It must be from Rinpoche aspiration from many life times to meet the high lama, taken refuge vows and practice Dharma in such a young age.
Even the enviroment and condition that Rinpoche facing is very difficult for rinpoche to attend the class but rinpoche never use it as the excuse to stop practice Dharma. Rinpoche chose to leave from house to continue your spiritual journey show the very strong imprint from many life time. Rinpoche treasure Dharma and fully respect your teacher unlike people now a day that run over the centres to follow the lama with big name and big title.
Thank you Rinpoche for your compassion to chose to stay and spread Lama Tsonkghapa teaching in Malaysia, the country that need Dharma.
Such is one fine example of guru devotion set by both master and disciple. The Guru doesn’t hesitate a single moment to help his student in his need, even looking for sponsors to solve his financial difficulties. And later send his own student to study under his own guru (HH. Zong Rinpoche). Tsem Rinpoche repay to his guru (Kensur Lobsang Tharchin) by hold to his commitments to his guru that he will do sadhanas and practices even until today that he has many students of his own. He even compared him self as only a cockroach as compare to all his gurus.
His practice of humility, example for all!
This post is a lovely sharing from Rinpoche’s heart about his first Guru. Can you imagine how Rinpoche felt as a seven year old boy, fresh from Taiwan and a stranger to his new foster family in United States? Everything was strange to him – even the language as he did not speak English then but only Mandarin.
Then he found Rashi Gempil Ling with this amazing Seramey Abbot Emeritus Kensur Lobsang Tharchin, literally only ten minutes away from his home and it is there that he finds happiness but yet his parents often did not allow him to go there. Rinpoche always said that his happiest memories of his childhood were times he spent at Rashi Gempil Ling, and that it was worth the punishments his mother put him through if he was found there without permission.
Rinpoche’s Dharma imprints are really unmistakable – when his parents asked him what he wanted for his birthday, while other children would name a toy or game, Rinpoche would say that he wanted to attend an initiation at RGL. His exasperated parents might say yes but then later retract their approval. Such was the anguish that the young Rinpoche would go through.
Rinpoche’s love for Buddha images also began at RGL. Rinpoche said he loved to go to RGL and look at the thangkas there, and meditate in front of them. He was especially drawn to the fierce deities and Rinpoche recounted once about how he first saw Vajrayogini’s image at RGL and how he immediately had faith in her because his Guru had faith in her. This reflected Rinpoche’s natural Guru devotion – to his first and every subsequent Guru whom Rinpoche has received teachings from.
For example, when Rinpoche went to L.A. and met Geshe Tsultim Gyeltsen at Thubten Dhargye Ling, he called back to New Jersey to ask Kensur Lobsang Tharchin for permission to take Geshe Tsultim Gyeltsen as his Guru. This and many, many examples of Guru devotion was natural to Rinpoche, which again shows the deep Dharma imprints of his past lives.
Rinpoche is a perfect example of Guru devotion for us. Even though Rinpoche is so attained, Rinpoche always is so humble and respectful to his Gurus, how much more humble and respectful should we be and appreciative of our own Guru.
The circumstances of HE Tsem Tulku Rinpoche meeting his first Guru; Kensur Rinpoche Lobsang Tharchin shows that Rinpoche not only has a lot of merits but also has a lot affinity with Kensur Rinpoche Lobsang Tharchin. All of us who gets to meet great Masters definitely have a lot of affinity with the Masters. I for one lives a few minutes away from Kechara House and we have the great Master HE Tsem Tulku Rinpoche as the Guru. How fortunate!! Except I do not have the merits to become a monk. At least I can’t imagine it now. I certainly hope to be able to in future lives if I practice well from now to benefit all sentient beings.
It’s definitely Rinpoche’s great merits and imprints from previous lives that bring Rinpoche to meet Kensur Rinpoche (1st Guru) and get initiation from young age. This is also the beginning of Rinpoche spiritual journey. Rinpoche incredible guru devotion is what everyone should learn and practice as this quality is a foundation for anyone to be success in their spiritual practice. I hope I can meet the Rinpoche at the young age too but it’s all tie back to my merits & karma. But I think I wouldn’t complain much as at the age of 30 I met the dharma. Is my positive karma ripening I believe. Better than later.
Rinpoche’s sincere and personal account of Guru Devotion is extremely touching. My heart moved greatly when i read this post. There is so little sincere things in this world these days, and even ‘sincere’ articles dont turn out to be completely sincere, but Rinpoche’s post has an unusual amount of sincerity and clarity, one of the few on the vast internet. It is exceptionally rare and refreshing.
At this moment, i am very ashamed and humble to admit that i do not have that level of Guru devotion yet but hopefully one day i will attain Guru devotion of that level so that i can achieve so much more than i can now. I’m not gonna give up and im gonna keep trying until i can! 😛
No matter where you go and what you do, if you have strong karma from previous life to be near the three jewels to continue on the path to benefit others, you will always meet your Guru. H.E. Tsem Tulku Rinpoche explained this to us before, and H.E. Tsem Tulku Rinpoche himself is a living example of that.
Both parents are Tibetan and Mongolian descent and he was born in Taiwan, and raised in the US. H.E. Tsem Rinpoche has strong karma to meet the Dharma since he was very young. Getting near and studying under great masters is just another natural progression for Rinpoche.
Normal kids probably waste their time playing football, running around making noise and fighting for toys. However, Rinpoche’s spending his childhood learning the Dharma, reciting mantras and studying under a great Guru.
This evidence suggests that he is an unusual child with an enlightened mind. I wish everyone would meet the three jewels and their own Guru in every single lifetime!
PAUL
This story brings tears to my eyes because Rinpoche’s love and devotion to his Guru is so real and so sincere. I heard or another story not recounted here of how much Kensur Lobsang Tharchin had impacted the mind of young Rinpoche. This was especially when Rinpoche’s parents were oppressive and wouldn’t allow Rinpoche to go for teachings and initiations, Rinpoche would still make it for teachings.
When this went on and on, Rinpoche’s mother, out of spite, spread false rumours of Kensur Lobsang Tharchin’s clandestine affairs with numerous women in the center. Rinpoche was heartbroken and very upset with his mother for creating such falsehood. So he sought audience, explained to his Guru and sought forgiveness. His Guru surprised him and told him to forgive his mother and it was Dharma practice for young Rinpoche to not come for teachings for his mother’s sake. He was not upset for himself at all and for the first time, Rinpoche felt real compassion and it went down very deep in Rinpoche’s heart. That was the quality of Rinpoche’s Gurus and that was what Rinpoche lived by all these years.
This article strike me most was Tsem Rinpoche GURU DEVOTION is 100%.
Tsem Rinpoche trusted his first Guru, Kensur Rinpoche fully and listened to his every advise even when he met Zong Rinpoche, his root guru, Rinpoche also seek Kensur Rinpoche permission if he allow to follow Zong Rinpoche teachings
Unlike nowadays in Malaysia , we have the scenario that, even a great high lama is close to us, care for us, and yet we still choose to run away or create causes to be away from our lama. Some students even like to be center hoping.
I am grateful that have the great fortune and merits to meet Tsem Rinpoche in this degenerate age, I must consider very lucky and I have no excuse not to practice and not to transform….
“At 7 months old, monks came and recognised Tsem Rinpoche as an incarnated Lama. They requested his mother to take the child to the monastery for his spiritual education but she refused. In return, she said that if Rinpoche was what they said he is, he would eventually find his own way to the monastery”
And INDEED Rinpoche did! By being 10 mins away from Rinpoche’s FIRST GURU when Rinpoche was 7 yrs old was the first step to finding his OWN way to the monastery. Can you imagine the probability of having a dharma center with such a great guru from the same lineage 10 mins away from you in the 70’s in AMERICA!
There is NO such thing as a coincidence.
This is one of the earliest life histories of Rinpoche and the first connection to dharma.
How incredibly slim the chances are to be brought to USA at a time when Tibetan Buddhism was not so popular compared to now. How remote to stay so near to an elite master of the Gelug sect, Sera Mey Kensur Rinpoche Lobsang Tharchin, who was the disciple of H.H. Kyabje Zong Rinpoche and H.H. Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche and who have met H.H. Kyabje Pabongka Rinpoche!
It is not good fortune but enlightened attainments that Tsem Rinpoche chose so.
How very fortunate we, at Kechara House, are to have H.E. Tsem Tulku Rinpoche as our guru who patiently and tirelessly teaches us the holy and profound dharma. Thank you, Rinpoche.
While I read Kensur Lobsang Tharchin post, can feel the love Rinpoche toward his Guru. Rinpoche guru devotion is amazing. Rinpoche respect Kensur Lobsang Tharchin very much. In this post Rinpoche has shared with us the kindness, compassion, care and love his guru has given him. Guru’s love and compassion seems like a very strong support for him to continue his spiritual journey.
The article really makes me think about the real guru devotion? What is the real guru devotion? After you read this article you will understand more and even can feel the real love between a guru and student. Even though, I not enough merit meet with this such as high lama, but I still can remember all the good quality of the great lama.
Very nice article, MUST READ!!!
I have always loved the stories that Rinpoche has shared with us about his time in Rashid Gempil Ling under Kensur Lobsang Tharchin. These stories are all the more poignant when you know what Rinpoche had to go through at home with all the abuse from his foster parents. RGL and Kensur Rinpoche were the only glimmers of respite and hope that he had in his difficult young life.
These accounts of Rinpoche’s teachings are so especially dear to us, Rinpoche’s students, because it we realise that it is also by their kindness that we now have Tsem Rinpoche and are receiving this unbroken, sacred lineage of teachings and blessings. For example, Kensur Lobsang Tharchin was a direct disciple of Trijang Rinpoche, making us extremely close to the lineage of his great master, the spiritual “father” of almost all Gelug teachers in the world today.
We are just so fortunate to be so close to the teachings, and to have them so easily handed to us on a silver, gem-studded platter.
More than that, it is also because of Rinpoche’s impeccable Guru Devotion to every of his 14 gurus, starting with Kensur Lobsang Tharchin, that we are now able to receive these teachings. If Rinpoche (like many of us) had not followed his Guru’s advice, not been loyal to them, run away, given up or not completed any of what they had advised him to do, then we would not be here. We hold these old Lamas in very high esteem but more importantly, we must always remember Rinpoche’s incredible devotion to these Gurus, hard work over the years and commitment to Dharma that have preserved these teachings – and this is the amazing legacy that has been passed down to us.
When Rinpoche’s mother was approached by the sangha to send her son to the monastery as they recognized him to be someone special, Rinpoche’s mother rejected saying if he were truly what the monks claimed he was, he would find his own way to spirituality.
This prophecy is uncannily fulfilled when Rinpoche met his first Guru, Kensur Rinpoche.
I can understand the very special relationship between Rinpoche and his first Guru. It must had been somewhat like meeting one’s long lost relative after all the trials and tribulations.
Another thing that strike me is the strong imprints of spiritual attainments these great masters have that no matter how difficult the circumstances are, they are attracted to spirituality like a magnet to magnet.
Tsem Rinpoche did not cultivate an attitude of “blaming” or “poor me” when he begged for sponsors when he went into Gaden monastery. It is very easy for us to give up on what we believe in but Tsem Rinpoche did not let his condition deter him from his pursuit. It took determination and great trust to be able to achieve what he wants to do in the monastery to serve the dharma.
Tsem Rinpoche did not let external conditions defeat his purpose or allow them to be obstacles to continue his practice. Rinpoche understands when his students need his help and he sponsors generously with sincerity without expecting in return.
The determination of Rinpoche wanting to learn and practice dharma from young is really amazing! Despite the objections from Rinpoche’s stepparents, Rinpoche had never ever given up hope in pursuing to learn dharma at any cost!
The amount of merits Rinpoche collected from life time after lime time had resulted Rinpoche being able to meet all the high lamas and to learn under their feet.
Rinpoche’s trust and devotion towards all Rinpoche’s guru are good examples for all of us especially me to emulate. Rinpoche had always led by example just like how Rinpoche had been taken care by Rinpoche’s gurus. We, student in turn, should learn this from Rinpoche.
Rinpoche is so compassionate that Rinpoche had chosen this ‘tough path’ in this incarnation in order to help us the ‘lucky ones’. It is a fact that highly reincarnated Lamas can choose their parents and environment to be reborn. Instead of being enthrone in at a young age like most of other high lamas, Rinpoche had chosen to be in an environment where family support in practicing dharma is none! And yet Rinpoche had persevere and hence the manifestation of Kechara organization.
Rinpoche had mentioned many times that Rinpoche does not need to build another big temple or learning institution as Rinpoche had done that life time after life time, it is us who needs to collect tonnes of merits in order for us to improve our life and gain enlightenment in the future.
Thank you Rinpoche for not giving up on anyone of us! Even for those who had left due to their lack merit or under other circumstances, Rinpoche always say prayers for them and hope that they will be taken care of later, an act of a Great Bodhisattva!
Now I understand why Tsem Rinpoche loves Zong Rinpoche and Tharchin Rinpoche so much from what I have read what Tsem Rinpoche has written. Tsem Rinpoche has followed both his beloved Guru’s same methods to teach his students. I also know the reason why Tsem Rinpoche was so grateful to Kensur Tharchin Rinpoche. When Tsem Rinpoche cannot find any financial help from his relatives and friends when he was in Gaden. Kensur Tharchin Rinpoche found him a sponsor who gave USD 50/- which was more than enough at that time. And is turn Tsem Rinpoche took very good care of his students. I can vouch for that. Tsem Rinpoche has taken care of me and my family spiritually, emotionally and financially not only to me but others too. He has taken the responsibility and commitment to take care of his students.
This article brings back vividly the 1st glance I had of Tsem Tulku Rinpoche at KYCO in 1992. When he was giving a dharma talk at The Chinese Mahayana Centre. Tsem Rinpoche looked thin at that time as compared to how he looks today and seemed very underfed!! But his Dharma teachings was attractively wonderful and easy to understand, as evidence later by the long line of audience who were waiting to see him for consultation later. Though I had already met a few other lamas before meeting him at this centre, yet I felt somewhat “fatefully” attracted to him at my first glance of him. Instant thoughts straight away came to my mind that should I seriously want to venture into spiritual practice this would be my first and last guru. A few other later meetings of him later with anila, together a few other family members finally brought about my 1st refuge with Tsem Rinpoche at Brains Trust Centre at Malacca in 1992.
I can’t imagine how heavy Rinpoche’s heart must be, when he had to leave Kensur Lobsang Tharchin because of the circumstances with his step parents, his only family who never really accepted him. Rinpoche loves Kensur Lobsang Tharchin so much and at the same time, not knowing who he was.
There’s an amazing teaching by example in this blogpost about guru-student relationship. It is important to take note how Rinpoche requested permission from his first guru before he studied with Zong Rinpoche, his root guru!
Lama and centre hoping is such a common practice today resulting in no attainments and a is waste of time. Do read GURUS FOR HIRE, ENLIGHTENMENT FOR SALE http://www.kechara.com/publications/publications/tsem-tulku-series/gurus-for-hire-enlightenment-for-sale/ where Rinpoche provides an insider’s guide to the precarious, often tricky Guru-disciple relationship.
I prostrate to Kensur Rinpoche Lobsang Tharchin because his kindness and wisdom is the ignition spark that caused Dharma to flourish in Malaysia.
Meeting Tsem Rinpoche and pure Dharma is the most precious blessing I ever received. The Dharma Tsem Rinpoche so generously shared has given greater meaning and value to the goals I pursue.
An example: Create self worth by giving worth to others. This breaks the perception that self worth is created by focusing on me, myself and I…by grasping onto to “having” so that these possessions add to how much we are worth. In the little instances I managed to be in contribution to others at work, I experienced a freeing and fulfilling happiness. A little “taste” of goodness from Dharma practice ☺
With this, my deep admiration and appreciation to the dedicated Kecharians who have consistently lived by the principals of Dharma to benefit Malaysia through the 13 departments of Kechara House (www.kechara.com).
To end, I pray that I will be able to honor the precious Dharma teachings of Kensur Rinpoche, Tsem Rinpoche and all the Lineage Guru (all the way to Pabongka Rinpoche and Trijang Rinpoche…WOW!!!) by making consistent effort to develop a habit of creating self worth by giving worth to others. I also pray for all Dharma practitioners to have a successful journey to liberation, which is the very reason our venerable Lineage Gurus imparted the Dharma upon us.
Rinpoche must have really been someone amazing to have such great fortune to meet all the great Masters of our time – from Kensur Rinpoche Lobsang Tharchin, to Zong Rinpoche to Lati Rinpoche and all the way to HH Dalai Lama. They were all Rinpoche’s Gurus. What makes Kensur Rinpoche Lobsang Tharchin so special is that he was the disciple of the Grand Master, Pabongka Rinpoche. Pabongka Rinpoche is the Guru of all the Gurus such as Trijang Rinpoche and Ling Rinpoche. Both are the Tutors of the HH Dalai Lama. You can read all about Pabongka Rinpoche in http://blog.tsemtulku.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/2010/07/pabongka-rinpoche-18781941.html. How lucky are we all to have the precious opportunity to be Rinpoche’s students in this lifetime. Rinpoche is a most precious ‘vessel’ which holds all the most significant transmissions in the Gelugpa Lineage from all the greatest minds of this century!
“And also was a great Abbot of Sera Mey Monastery who uplifted the educational standard of the whole monastery and paid off all their huge loans during his tenure. Sera Mey respects him tremendously.” – this sounds oddly familiar, with Rinpoche’s work to lift the education standards of Gaden, and also his fundraising work in 1992 to build living quarters for the monks of Phukhang Khangtsen.
There are so many teachings in Rinpoche’s sharing…lessons in guru devotion, in humility, in care, in gratitude. I think stories of lamas always touch us because they reflect the attainments we want to achieve. And I’m not talking about the esoteric stuff like walking on water or the power of speed, but the qualities that everyone (whether Buddhist or not) will understand and appreciate. I think one of those qualities is that of thinking outwards. We live with such selfish minds that when we come across beings who operate from the basis of benefiting others, we’re affected by the compassionate minds that they generate. To come across such a being is a blessing, because they remind me that I can learn to think like that too.
Thank you Rinpoche for sharing this heart felt real life story of yours. It really shows that Rinpoche definitely have very very strong Dharma imprints from your previous life. Your determination and courage to hitch-hike, live on the streets and work many odd jobs to support yourself so that you can do Dharma is truly inspiring.
It also makes me reflect on how lucky we are, I am, to have been able to meet Rinpoche in my 20’s and without having to go through so much obstacles like what Rinpoche did. In deed we/I am very LUCKY/Blessed. Rinpoche you are my first and always will be the Guru that change my life. For without Rinpoche, I will not be in Dharma now.
Thank you for sharing this very warm post. I already consider myself incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to meet Rinpoche when I was in my late 20’s, in a wild barbaric place (in the Dharma sense) such as Malaysia. I can imagine that New Jersey in the 1970’s would have been similar.
So for Tsem Rinpoche to be so close to Kensur Rinpoche and to be able to receive the highest teachings from him at such a young age is clearly a result of his imprints and incredible good merit – merit that is accrued from lifetimes and lifetimes of dedication to the Dharma.
Thank you so much. I am so grateful to Know you on line and to be able to get strong lessons each time after reading you. I am very touch by your generosity towards us and all beings. When I read you I feel so much, but what really count is to practice what you are teaching. I keep falling off the track and than come back on it.
You guidance is so precious and I am forever grateful for being so lucky to have met you on line. With all my heart.
Rinpoche
My tears stream down my face as I read this.
My heart is hot.
I prostrate myself to you