Question asked by Anonymous
I wish to not practice Shugden anymore and practice another protector, I haven't undergone initiations, commitments, etc. I've only been merely reciting daily prayers. Originally, I was deeply drawn to Palden Lhamo, now fast-forward to today, I feel affinity to Palden Lhamo again. Is it okay to just switch protectors overnight? Also I like to ask, can I take vows in front of an image, I can't attend any physical classes/ceremonies, etc. Thank you very much
Dear Anonymous,
If you wish to practice Palden Lhamo and not Dorje Shugden, that is fine. Both are enlightened Dharma Protectors, so there will not be any unfortunately circumstances. And yes, you can switch.
However, and this is the main point, once you have chosen which Protector to practice, you have to be consistent. If you are not consistent and perhaps keep switching between the two, you will not experience the most benefits from either practice. The purpose of Dharma Protector practice is to get benefits in both worldly and spiritual life to help us, however we must be consistent and commited to our practice to get the real benefits. If you would like to practice Palden Lhamo instead, that is wonderful. But it would be best to stick to Palden Lhamo’s practice from now on and do it consistently.
You can take refuge in front of your altar (which would include an image), that is very much done when you can’t attend the ceremonies at Dharma centres, etc. Here is Kechara, we have a service in which we take you through the Refuge ceremony only if you cannot attend our events physically. During the ceremony, you would be in front of your altar at home. You can email Care@Kechara.com if you are interested.
Other vows are different. For example the 8 Precepts need to be received in person or online for the 1st time. Then after that you can take the 8 Precepts whenever you want in front of your altar or image, as you already have the vows. Other vows, such as the layman vows, monastic ordination, Bodhisattva vows, etc, need to be received in person from someone holding those vows.
I hope this helps.