Question asked by Dongho
The great Saraswati practitioner, Lama Dawa Chodak, is dead. I'm beginning to worry on my own root guru after hearing on a lama I almost took refuge in being dead(I never was able to contact him, but I respected him greatly for his devotion to my yidam, Saraswati). What does one do when their root guru is dead? Also, what should one do before their root guru is dead?
Dear Dongho,
Thank you for your question. I am very sorry to read that Lama Dawa Chodak has passed away. I must admit I do not know much about this lama but from the sounds of it he was a very accomplished master. His devotion to Saraswati is very admirable, as she an extremely powerful Buddha and her practice is extremely effective. In fact, within the Gelug tradition, Lama Tsongkhapa is well known to have relied on her practice.
In regards to what we should do when our guru is alive: we should follow his/her instructions to the best of our ability and practice the teachings bestowed seriously and without fail to improve and transform ourselves. Depending on which tradition you are practicing now, there are many texts that deal with devotion to the guru. You should ask other senior students in your tradition which text that your guru has recommended to study and practice in regards to guru devotion. Once your guru has entered clear light and left their current physical body, you should continue your practice and further your transformation on the path to enlightenment.
Here is a comprehensive article with commentary to the Lama Nga Chu Pa text, also known as the 50 Verses of Guru Devotion: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/complete-commentary-on-50-verses-of-guru-devotion.html. This is one of the most well-known of texts in regards to guru devotion and was written by the great Indian master Ashvagosha. I hope this helps.
Thank you