My Buddhist Experinece...
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Hi Guys, just a brief introduction... I am a normal guy like the rest of you but wandered aimlesssly in samsara. As a start of my spiritual life as a practioner, i was introduced first into Yi Kwan Dao. Always pursuing the truth in life, I attended lessons as i can to understand more for gaining wisdom and of course to reduce suffering... But in fact it was the beginning of hell, when i started becoming a stubborn vegeterian after attending a special class of theirs.
At first i perfer Taoism than Buddhism after reading the awesome stories of Lao Tzu and Chuang Tzu. and was fasinated by the zen experince by the Chan masters of the past. however hard i tried to self read but was not able to fathom what is the underlying secerts to their wisdom and intelligence. All i made a fool of myself by introducing my best friend to join Yi Kwan Tao for once and was poured cold water by the intelligence gained by his self learnt Buddhism. I always wanted to prove him wrong that one day if i have leanrt the real wisdom of Taoism to defeat him for scouring me.
It was after two bumpy years of my attending of classes, then i met one "Tang Ki"who is able to summon upon many "gods" or "buddhas", who then set me right and making me take meat. He educated me that there is a difference between eating maet and taking lives itself. They are two seperate matters.. Most importantly, he introduce me Buddhism by burrowing a basic introduction to Buddhism. He also set my family right by settling chaotic issues by his summoned "godly" presence. intially he wanted to take me as his disciple as i have destiny to learn Tantric Buddhism, in chinese called "xian3 mi4" but after sometimes he refuse to teach me. Preharps knowing what lies ahead in future
After installing a Cundi mother buddha statute, he left mysteriously and away from me. knowing that i might be sticky to him. Knowing that staying Yi kwan Dao serve no better purpose and some of their teachings are not correct from the truth. I leave the comfort of the nice people, whom i associated closely as my second family.
What i treasured is that i can eat my ketucky fried chicken at ease
...Haha... after two years of suffering as a vegetarian and enduring all verbal insults from my kins and relatives as stubborn. I did what i did for the sake of improving my family life, this is the simple thought i kept within myself as self sacrficing...During my tertirally education, I walked into Mr Lu Sheng yan's temple after seeing fasicnating stories about his so called tantric ablilities to defeat demons, save people and convert the evildoers to correct path. An Almighty superhero... ha???More importantly I wanted to check out if they put Dalai lama's picture as a prove of token that this is an authetic place for me to began my Spiritual practise. I was gald that I found picture of Mr Lu and Dalai Lama warm handshaking.... But after spending sometimes, i release that they do give teachings but only emphaise on chanting mantras. It was my parents disapproval, I began to leave that place sadly for the fear of cutting my allowances if persist. Sadly I left the place...
I continued my normal life in poly and found a girlfriend at the end of my poly days. It was a period of blissful moments which lasted less than 2 years, where we were a pair of loving couple wanted nothing but desiring to set up a small family of our own. Alas, we were seperated due to gradual disagreements and an appearance of a colleague who is more experinced and has more quality time with her during work. I was desperate to fight back and wanted her back. but she refuse as the rival has much better qualities than me.
The world has turned dark and gray for me, when i lost my 1st long term girlfriend whom i have put or betted my entire heart and soul on her. I have months of sleepless night during my army daze. For months, My heart kept pumping in fear and sadness which could be heard by my eardrums even in my sleep. Kept missing her. This is the 1st time i encountered the real meaning of impernance in life. Aimlessly i started research on internet , read up books on Buddhism and starting all over again to get rid of my sorrows and despairs. Most importantly to pursue trruth about life and gain wisdom... thus I embarked a spiritual journey in search of someone whom can guide me to the path of the Brightness of the light.
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In search of the Spritual Guide...
Amusingly, fate has strange and sure ways of workings, for i wanted to find Buddhism that is associated to the Cundi Mother Buddha and search in the internet and found my way to the west where this Dharma Center has Mahayana Monk conducting chanting classes with a lot of thin looking practioners (I guess must be vegeterians again). Finding the chanting and the environment unsuitable for my taste, i respectfully bow and retreat with me facing the Buddha statute and walking backward to the doorstep! When i looked back i was amazed that i don't even know why i did that????
I read up books and articles from internet on Kamdampa and FMPT during my leisure times. What caught my attention is the Liberation on your Palms by Je Phabhogka. Last time i used to pay a lot for accompanying my ex-girlfriend even dugged out my last coin to buy presents to please her. At that time, I spent my large portion of my salary from my army pay to purchase the 3 books in one shot without thinking! Spent day and night to read up and gained a lot of real knowledge about Dharma. Which teachings contasted the learnings that i have gained in Yi Kwan Dao up till i found this book was a VAST DIFFERENCE! It also spured my interest to seek for the Vajrayana teachings whereby attainment of buddhahood is possble within one lifetime!!!!
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I began to take note of the Dharma activities by the various Dharma centers by the posters pasted on the wall. I admired the wisdom of the Buddha Manjushri and seeking for such empowerment to place. Whoever has such empowerment, i will fly there... It was at the Ngee Ann Centre where the Manjushri Empowerment take place and i was late for the empowerment. Instead the 1st empowerment i took was the female proctector of Karma Kagyu. Beginning to start chanting her mantra for invoking her presence, whist waiting for the next Guru who can offer me the Manjushri Empowerment.
While I began my own spiritual journey and went to the Guang ming shan myself to pay respect to the Buddha as no one accomapnied me on the Vesek day. i felt like a lone ranger whereby my heart is still missing something (maybe another girlfriend) or preharps some other thngs that can fill the emptiness within my heart. (maybe wisdom)...
Once there is a grand Dharma ceremony was on going near my place at the MRT area and begged my army pals to change duty with me. But no one was willing to exchange their previous off day with me. Somemore it is Saturday! no choice as i reluctantly went for my duty that day and passing by the Dharma ceremony site. I was asked to do some lamp offerings to the Buddha. I saw 3 choices for my lamp offerings dedications on the form and choose not to offer to my debtors but to offer the merits to the all the mother sentinents within the 6 realms. I was very happy to make such choice as I have made an ulitimate compassionate "Bodhi" wish that all mother sentinents be free from sufferings! I am glad i have leanrt to make such intentions by learning from Lineage Master Je Phabongkha.
Knowing that there are various branches are teaching Highest Yoga Tantra, i made my way to one of the Gelug Center armed with my Liberation in the Palms of hands. and I found my way in search of a Spritual Guide. Co-incidentally it was the same Buddhist Center where I had first offered my "Bodhi" Lamp and finally met my Guru who was magnificent on the Throne. I treated him as a real Buddha as i have learnt from Je Phabongkha as an ausupious start...
It was then i finally met my qualified Spritual Guide who give me the real Dharma teachings which was like nectar which banishes the 4 maras. He also gives me the 4 Major Highest Yoga Tantra Empowerment. Thus I have gained the real insight into Vajrayana and Mahayana teachings and i have served Him for 6 years and never regretted having such qualified Vajra Master!
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What is a Spiritual Guide to you? Have you ever wondered???
Sometimes, I passed by carparks where the Buddha Statute or passby temples where old lady pray fervently to Alokiteshrava (Kwan Kin) for help. No one gives these sentinent beings the Buddha's teachings and how to avert sufferings
All I am glad for myself yet I weeped for all the sentinent beings who hasn't got a Spiritual Guide like i do. All Buddha of the past has not came in person to give me teachings, including Lord Buddha, including lineage masters, including Je Tsong Kha Pa have forsakened us.
I weeped that how precious that I have a Guru who gives me guidance in the darkness of the Samsara and shone my path to Buddhahood like a Lamp in utter darkness. I weeped for the mother sentinent beings do not know how to escape their suffering and full of ignorance still suffering in the six realms and without a guide.
Our Spiritual guide is the manfestation of all the Buddhas who came to give us Buddha teachings. To me, He was like Manjushi with flaming sword which severed and pirece through the delusion and opened my wisdom. He is the one who give nectar which banishes maras. The underlying truth meaning behind sutra is unlocked by precise and correct explanation passed down all the way from Lord Buddha Himself. No one can ever understand the wisdom of Buddha and self read or guess the meaning of the Buddha's teachings.That is why oral transmission is so important!
Back from countless of eons ago, we have been wandering aimlessly and been the top as a heavenly deity and to the deepest bottom of hells. As if like a bucket in a well filled with water, with upmost efforts brought up and when it drops it falls with tremendous speed. An good analogy for samsara....
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The purpose of sharing such story is to hope that everyone will eventually find their own Spiritual Guide in their lives to give them authentic teachings to everlasting bliss of Enlightenment. According to sutras, Buddha Shakyamuni will appear as our spiritual guide in human form to guide us.
To obtain a human body and to be able to listen to Dharma is very hard to come by. I may not be a very good Buddhist but i am willing to share my knowlegde so as to benefit the needy, the destitudes.
For those who does are not fortuante to meet one, hopefully by seeing the Buddha's Relics itself will bless them to shorten the time to meet one qualified Guide or even Future Buddhas eventually.
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Congratulation you found your way, however it makes me so sad that Buddha is so portray as god like. Never in the Pali tipitaka has Sakyamuni portray himself to be a god.
In the suttas, he sleeps, he eat, he aged, he excreted and he died. This is all very human in nature. In his many discourse, including the Mahaparinibbna Sutta, he had told his sangha that the main teaching is the Four foundation of Mindfulness, Seven Factor of Enlightenment....etc
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Originally posted by SevenEleven:
Congratulation you found your way, however it makes me so sad that Buddha is so portray as god like. Never in the Pali tipitaka has Sakyamuni portray himself to be a god.
In the suttas, he sleeps, he eat, he aged, he excreted and he died. This is all very human in nature. In his many discourse, including the Mahaparinibbna Sutta, he had told his sangha that the main teaching is the Four foundation of Mindfulness, Seven Factor of Enlightenment....etc
:) An extraordinary Teacher he was. The true attainments frequently mentioned in the Tipitaka are Magga-Phala and Jhanas. All need meditation.
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You and I are very fortunate to meet Buddhism in this life. Since your affinity is with the Gelug school, I pray that you will find (and there are many) Gelug gurus that does not advocate Dolgyal worship. FMPT is one of them, there are others.
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Sorry to tell you that the Gelug Lineage masters incliuding Je Phabongkha, Trijang Rinpoche, Song Rinpoche has relied on Dojre Shugden. For your info, Do you need a video clip of them chanting in Tibetan and translation
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Originally posted by SevenEleven:
Congratulation you found your way, however it makes me so sad that Buddha is so portray as god like. Never in the Pali tipitaka has Sakyamuni portray himself to be a god.
In the suttas, he sleeps, he eat, he aged, he excreted and he died. This is all very human in nature. In his many discourse, including the Mahaparinibbna Sutta, he had told his sangha that the main teaching is the Four foundation of Mindfulness, Seven Factor of Enlightenment....etc
Buddha "appeared" to sleep, eat. aged, excerted and passed away. Infact Buddha can remained with his body for eons without ageing. The Splendour of Buddha's light even outshone than the world deity that resides in heavens. What is precious is His teachings which can lead us to door of liberation out of samsara!
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His Holiness the Dalai Lama's Advice Concerning Dolgyal (Shugden)
Following long and careful investigations, His Holiness the Dalai Lama strongly discourages Tibetan Buddhists from propitiating the fierce spirit known as Dolgyal (Shugden). Although he once practised Dolgyal propitiation himself, His Holiness renounced the practice in 1975 after discovering the profound historical, social and religious problems associated with it. He did so with the full knowledge and support of his junior tutor, the late Kyabje Trichang Rinpoche through whom His Holiness first became associated with the practice. Even within the Geluk and Sakya schools - the Tibetan Buddhist traditions to which majority of Dolgyal practitioners belong - the propitiation of this spirit has been controversial throughout its history. Historical investigation reveals that Dolgyal practice, which has strong sectarian overtones, has a history of contributing to a climate of sectarian disharmony in various parts of Tibet, and between various Tibetan communities. Therefore, from 1975 onwards, His Holiness has regularly made public his view that this practice is inadvisable, based on the following three reasons:
1. The danger of Tibetan Buddhism degenerating into a form of spirit worship: Tibetan Buddhism originally evolved from the authentic and ancient tradition upheld at the great Indian monastic university of Nalanda, a tradition that His Holiness often describes as a complete form of Buddhism. It embodies the original teaching of the Buddha as developed through the rich philosophical, psychological and spiritual insights of such great Buddhist masters as Nagarjuna, Asanga, Vasubandhu, Dignaga and Dharamakirti. Since the great philosopher and logician Shantarakshita was instrumental in establishing Buddhism in Tibet in its earliest stages in the 8th century, philosophical enquiry and critical analysis have always been important hallmarks of Tibetan Buddhism. The problem with Dolgyal practice is that it presents the spirit Dolgyal (Shugden) as a Dharma protector and what's more tends to promote the spirit as more important than the Buddha himself. If this trend goes unchecked, and innocent people become seduced by cult-like practices of this kind, the danger is that the rich tradition of Tibetan Buddhism may degenerate into the mere propitiation of spirits.
2. Obstacles to the emergence of genuine non-sectarianism: His Holiness has often stated that one of his most important commitments is the promotion of inter-religious understanding and harmony. As part of this endeavour, His Holiness is committed to encouraging non-sectarianism in all schools of Tibetan Buddhism. In this His Holiness is following the example set by his predecessors, especially the Fifth Dalai Lama and the Thirteenth Dalai Lama. Not only is a non-sectarian approach mutually enriching for all Tibetan Buddhist schools, but it is also the best safeguard against a rise of sectarianism that could have damaging consequences for the Tibetan tradition as a whole. Given the acknowledged link between Dolgyal worship and sectarianism, this particular practice remains a fundamental obstacle to fostering a genuine non-sectarian spirit within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.
3. Especially inappropriate in relation to the well-being of Tibetan society:Propitiating Dolgyal is particularly troublesome, given the Tibetan people's present difficult circumstances. Textual and historical research demonstrates that the spirit Dolgyal arose out of hostility to the great Fifth Dalai Lama and his government. The Fifth Dalai Lama, who assumed both the spiritual and temporal leadership of Tibet in the 17th century, personally denounced Dolgyal as a malevolent spirit that arose out of misguided intentions and is detrimental to the welfare of beings in general and the Tibetan government headed by the Dalai Lamas in particular. The Thirteenth Dalai Lama and other respected Tibetan spiritual masters have also spoken out strongly against this practice. Therefore, in the current Tibetan context, in which unity among the Tibetan people is vitally important, engaging in this controversial and divisive propitiatory practice is inappropriate.
His Holiness has strongly urged his followers to consider carefully the problems of Dolgyal practice on the basis of these three reasons and to act accordingly. He has stated that, as a Buddhist leader with a special concern for the Tibetan people, it is his responsibility to speak out against the damaging consequences of this kind of spirit worship. Whether or not his advice is heeded, His Holiness has made clear, is a matter for the individual. However, since he personally feels strongly about how negative this practice is, he has requested those who continue to propitiate Dolgyal not to attend his formal religious teachings, which traditionally require the establishment of a teacher-disciple relationship.
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Statement Of His Eminence The Gaden Tri Rinpoche (Head Of Gelukpa Sect) Regarding The Worship Of Gods And Protectors
As stated by His Holiness the Dalai Lama in his recent speeches regarding the worship of gods and protectors, the six major monasteries summoned gatherings at every level - monastic assembly, monastic administrators, monastic sections, individual monks - wherever deemed necessary. Signatures and finger prints of every individual monk supporting the ban on worshipping such dubious deities by any individuals or groups had been submitted. I myself attended these meetings and made essential clarifications on merits and demerits of such worship. Consequently, I had a deep satisfactory feeling that this controversial issue was finally solved, creating a peaceful atmosphere "as stainless as the sky and as pure as the earth." But unfortunately a handful of monks from certain monasteries committing "the downfall of negligence (breach of an ordained monk for neglecting the correction of their faults)" created more imbroglio and crisis in our community by sticking misleading information and distributing pamphlets without any sense of loss over their time, energy and money.
This polemic is not similar to the communal conflicts between the Hindus and the Muslims. This is an inter-sectarian theological strife caused by misunderstandings, which certainly can be solved through clarifications and correcting the things by reminding their misunderstandings and the faux pas. Thus, everyone must strive in understanding the truth by which we can gradually solve this issue. By just stating the practise of its worship by the earlier great lamas and vying for the right to faith and belief does not validates the stand. As the great Lamas of the past visualised the union of the mind of peaceful and the wrathful deities, it appears to them in a pure form. It is completely different from the worship by an ordinary person like us whose mind is filled with continuous flow of deluded emotions.
Contemptuously grave is the act of alleging rift between His Holiness and the great masters of the past with reference to this worship. This demeans act of presuming ones lama as an ordinary person and misconceiving over-estimating and under-estimating the realities is a heinous act, committed out of ones delusion-ignorance. Thus, it is advisable to be conscientious.If it (shugden) were a real protector, it should protect the people. There may not be any protector such as this, which needs to be protected by the people. Is it proper to disturb the peace and harmony by causing conflicts, unleashing terror and shooting demeans words in order to please the Dharma protector? Does this fulfils the wishes of our great masters? Try to analyse and contemplate on the teachings that had been taught in the Lamrim (stages of path), Lojong (training of mind) and other scriptural texts. Does devoting time in framing detrimental plots and committing degrading act, which seems no different from the act of attacking monasteries wielding swords and spears and draining the holy robes of the Buddha with blood, fulfil the wishes of our great masters?
The Mahayana teachings advocates altruistic attitude of sacrificing few for the sake of many. Thus why is it not possible for one, who acclaims oneself to be a Mahayana, to stop worshipping these dubious gods and deities for the sake and benefit of the Tibetans in whole and for the well-being of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. In the Vinaya (Buddhist code of discipline), it is held that since a controversial issue is settled by picking the mandatory twig by "accepting the voice of many by the few" the resolution should be accepted by all. As it has been supported by ninety five percent it would be wise and advisable for the rest five percent to stop worshipping the deity keeping in mind that there exists provisions such as the four Severe Punishments (Nan tur bzhi), the seven Expulsions (Gnas dbyung bdun) and the four Convictions (Grangs gzhug bzhi) in the Vinaya (Code of Discipline).
If we abide and adhere to the vows and teachings and is able to protect, preserve and flourish the teachings, we need not feel doubtful and confused when we have countless deities as numerous as the stars in the boundless sky. And it is quite possible that a fake deity may appear to us caused by our ignorance and contaminated actions. As Horton Chenmo's (Hor ston chen mo) Mind Training Like the rays of Sun (Blo sbyong nyi ma`i od zer) States:
At this period, when this realm of existence is filled with beings whose actions of body, speech and mind are engaged in harming others, the Dharma protectors, the gods and the Nagas have left for other universe to protect the teachings and the four categories of Buddha's disciples. And on the other hand, the power and the spells of the devilish non-humans, who en kindle the the evils, increase and become powerful. They, assuming the form of religious practitioners, causes every calamities and sufferings in this world and causes various obstacles to the Dharma practitioner.There are many gods and Nagas assuming the form of the powerful ones and granting boons. What certainty is there in god whose appearances are ever changing, obstacles befell on persons who had the vision of evil spirit in the form of white Manjushri. In the past, Tendar, a slain Mongolian abbot of Sera Je monastery, too is said to have had the vision of an image similar to that of Je Tsongkapa, but had to undergo many obstacles. And, in our ritual texts, it had been said that there are many demons and spirits who assumes the form of a deceased and inflict sufferings to their surviving relatives. And many fire sacrificial rites are meant to banish and ward off these outer evil forces. Even amongst the retinue of the great protector, Vaishravana, there hides many terrifying demons. And, as for the fifteen directional protectors, there are `the fifteen evil protectors' that are to be subdued through Phurba rituals and the `fifteen godly protectors.' And as for the sixty two Chakrasamvaras with reference to the subduables and the subdue-rs, it is held that there are sixty two evils that are to be subdued.
And if the practitioner does not abide by the vows and if he were not free from desire and attachment, the power of the evil deities would increase and would cause more harm than good.If we worship or invoke gods and protectors with a mind focusing on the nine apprehensions of conceit as the centre of our meditation and practise, then it is said that the god and protectors, if good and real would never fulfil your wishes but would be as dangerous as holding a burning thunderbolt in your hand. His Holiness clearly quoted from the life story of Changkya Rolpai Dorjee, the banishment of Dolgyal from the Gaden area by the great throne-holder Ngawang Chokdhen out of his innately pure mind which is free from any misconception.
And, the life story of Jamyang Khyentse Wangpo written by Dho Drupchen relates:
While Khyentse Wangpo was imparting Tantric teachings (rgyud brtag pa gnyis pa) at Derge Lhundrup, Shugden approached to listen to the teachings saying, "As your explanations are good and the teaching are elegant, I felt desirous in listening to it." Thus not only humans, but even the ferocious non-human too swarm around the nectar of his teachings.When such great Rimey Lamas (non-sectarian lama) forbids the worship, it must be known that it is undoubtedly true that these arises out of our own misconception. What certainty there is in such misconceived appearances? Once when Arhat Upgupta was giving teachings, an evil spirit tried to interrupt him but found him invincible. Upgupta then said, "I had never seen the Buddha. Thus, evil one, assume the form of the Buddha." The demon instantaneously assumed the form of the Buddha. Out of deep reverence, when the great Arhat was about to prostrate, it is said that the demon unable to bear the sight changed himself into his real form. And in Khedrup Rinpoche's text `The Great Explanation of Kalachakra (Dus' khor tik chen)' states that the devil Garab Wangchuk tried to interrupt Galo in his practise by assuming different forms and protecting him and at times approaching him for teachings. But Gaol sought the initiation of Shemar, and therefore, turned invulnerable. Thus, there are numerous other analogies proving fallible nature of these spirits and demons, who assume godly images and fulfil some trivial wishes.
And at times, worshipping of gods even if it be real, had to be stopped. During the 21 days Monlam festival in Lhasa, performing invocations and trance rituals of deity Karmasha of Lhasa was prohibited. It is held that Chushur Tenpa Tsering, a cruel chieftain, died and was born as an evil spirit in the locality of Samye Pekar. This evil spirit dropped poison in the utensil meant for the monk assembly at the Monlam festival. But the Dharma protector Nechung perforated a hole from beneath the utensil with cloth- spear by which the afternoon tea could not be served. If candidly expressed, Karmasha was held guilty as the accusation and allegement fell on him. During the commencement of the Monlam congregation, the disciplinarian of Drepung monastery sternly declared his warning in the Karmasha invocation hall:
"No one shall, during the 21 days Monlam festival, burn even an iota of incense as diminutive as the breath of a guinea pig nor shall one offer Torma as small as the tiny thump. No musical instrument shall be played. How can Chushar Tenpa Tsering, a man who had entered the heart of evil-spirit, be the minister Jatri Chanchik (Karmasha)?"Thus, there is no certainty in the appearances caused by our Karmas as the saying goes:
A single object conceived with disparate mind Is held to be a non-established existence
When one is attached to the doctrines, it is no different for getting attached to wealth and riches. It is stated in Abhidharmakosa (Mngon pa mdzod) as:
Pride, arrogance and haughtiness Are out of attachment to ones attributes [Thus,] such mind are fully obscured.And, the great Je Tsongkapa had stated:
It had been said that if one does not meditate analytically on the tenets with an unbiased analytical mind, by abandoning discrimination out of attachment towards oneself and aversion towards other, one would forever be tightly bound in this cyclic existence. Thus, we must understand that this statement is a unique teaching given to us out of great compassion.
Thus, our disputes and arguments are out of attachment and if keenly examined with an unbiased mind, we would come to know that there is not a single good thing that is in conformity with the Dharma.Whatever may it be, god or evil spirit, there is no restriction in worshipping it. One had not understood the basic definition of the universally acclaimed `Right to faith and belief.' A short definition of it can undo the knots and clarify the misunderstanding of this principle. An individual has complete freedom whether to have faith in a particular religion or not. Again, an individual has complete freedom whether to have belief in a particular religion or not. Thus, according to this principle, no one can be forced into particular religious system. This itself becomes an answer to their allegement.
We most probably say, " we have solemn faith and belief in our religion." Whatever religion may it be, no difference of accessibility and restrictions had been made. Everyone is guaranteed with the right to faith and belief. One may insists, "I have complete right to faith and belief and no one can restrict me from worshipping any gods and protectors." But, if citizens feigning right to faith and belief, violates the constitutional laws of his country in such manner, it would cause an unruly state "where people violates the law and horse shakes off its saddle." And to them, it might also be appropriate for a Buddhist to practise the religion of the Hindu and the Muslim. If one enters Buddhism but practises in an overtly opposite manner to the Buddhist principles and tenets, then one violates the principal hallmark of Buddhism and feigning right to faith and belief does not help. Hence it is said, "When in Yala Shampo, worship god Yala Shampo" and "When one drinks the water of the land, so must one adhere to the laws of the land". Thus when one seeks refuge in the Buddha, one does not seek refuge in other gods; when one seeks refuge in the teachings of the Buddha, one should not commit ill deeds: and when one seeks refuge in the Buddha's community, one does not befriend a person with wrong and distorted views. Thus, the enforcement of this right to faith and belief encompasses only to a certain limited spheres.
If right to faith and belief had not been limited monastic rules might have not been possible. In Tibet, law of the monastery proclaims that postulant monks shall seek admission only in their respective monastic sections. Law again states that the great Lamas and Tulkus through their numerous incarnations shall not change their monastic sections or monasteries, but had to stick to a particular monastic section. Many cases caused by such misunderstandings had been reported. Here too, some monastic sections had been filing such cases. Thus, with a clear understanding of this right to faith and belief, we should strive to settle such cases and must prevent such false cases to rise.The act of pronouncing ones strong faith in worldly gods is no different from publicising your faults and downfall in your adherent�e to "the advice or refuge-seeking." Moreover, there is none amongst us who had not received teachings from His Holiness. Likewise every of us had received many Tantric initiation, instructions and transmissions. Thus, disfiguring and demeaning ones Vajra Guru would cause results so inconceivably grave and unbearable. And it is sarcastic on finding a person, who upholding the laws of cause and effect not having even the slightest regrets and doubts over blindly committing a grave blunder and also drowning everyone in it. It would be wise to contemplate and practise in cultivating reverence to ones master as had been taught in Dorjee Chang's Lamrim (stages of path). The root text of Guhyasamaja Root Tantra (Gsang `dus rtsa rgyud) states:
If sentient beings commits an action
As grave as the heinous crimes
He [still] can attain the superior Vajra Vehicle
But who from within disregards his master
Shall never attain, even if exerted.And also in the tantra of Vajrapani Initiation (Lag na rdo rje dbang bskur ba`i rgyud):
If we, Tantric practitioners, do not think on the immensely grave demerits of disregarding ones master, who would?This demeans act of ignoring the advice of His Holiness on spiritual and temporal ground intended for the benefit of Tibetans and masterminding certain detrimental activities in finding slightest differences to your view clearly signifies ones lack of patriotism. Does the sour reality of governmental official needing police and security to escort them on their visit to the monasteries, centres of peace and religion, not become a cause for shame and embarrassment to the Tibetans in general and the monastic centres in particulars? Thus, it is timely to stop this strife by being aware of the grave outcome and essence less nature of this root of disagreement. But without sound conscience, if one adamantly tries to oppose it, then like "a hundred birds flying east: and the pak bird flying west" one would turn into our enemy's best friend for having a same adverse standpoint and strategy. And, one would face the same consequences as did the adamant Pelsur Jholak. Thus, it is wise for everyone, ordained and the laymen, to bear some minor loss on this ground.
If Je Rinpoche had introduced this New Kadampa Tradition in order to distinguish between the worshipper of this Red god and the rest, then it would be appropriate. But, it should be known that Je Rinpoche did not introduce this tradition in order to distinguish the worshippers from the rest. It is quite improper if one does not have any understanding on these extreme consequences. If one continuously swaggers on acquiring some wealth and status like a little son rejoicing on receiving some gifts from his parent, we need not explore the whole world to find an example to wholly prove and validate Je Rinpoche's prophecy:
"My teaching will be destroyed by wealth and riches."
Kindly ponder over the contents and practise it as this had been written out of strong resolute intention by a person inept in politics.
20 Sep 1996
http://www.tibet.com/dholgyal/index.html
According to Michael von Brück, in 1996 Geshe Kelsang was excluded by a number of abbots and Geshes from the community of the monastery (Sangha) he belonged to:
Fifteen abbots and teachers (Geshes) from Geshe Kelsang's origin monastery, Sera Je Dratsang (now South India) wrote an open letter against Geshe Kelsang, excluded him from the community of the monastery, named him an "apostate" and compared him with "Mahmud of Ghazni".[37]
http://www.geocities.com/thubtengonpo/SeraLetter.html -
From the way you posted, it does seem that you have already been aware of the controversy surrounding your guru and organization, yet you chose to skirt around the issue and kept quiet about where you were coming from. After the forum owner reiterated the officially stance of the forum, now you come out and reveal that you actually knew about these issues all along.
I have no wish to denounce your guru, but I have much greater confidence in the most respected and widely recognized great Dharma teachers from various Tibetan Buddhist schools, including HHDL and HE Ganden Tri Ripnoche from Gelugpa, and all the heads and distinguished Rinpoches from Nyingmapa, Sakyapa and Kagyupa, who have all clearly opposed to the practice of that being. With all due respect to you as a fellow sentient being, if your sharing in this thread are true, then I sincerely wish that, with the same courage you had in re-evaluating and then walking away from Ee Kwan Tao, you will have that same courage to re-evaluate the current organization you are in.
As stated in the rules of this forum, all postings on organizations that practise that particular being will be removed.
If any negativity has occurred due to lack of skilfulness on my part, I confess and pray that all negativities be transformed into conditions for you and all other beings to meet with authentic gurus and Dharma, and thus be swiftly liberated.
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Originally posted by _wanderer_:
From the way you posted, it does seem that you have already been aware of the controversy surrounding your guru and organization, yet you chose to skirt around the issue and kept quiet about where you were coming from. After the forum owner reiterated the officially stance of the forum, now you come out and reveal that you actually knew about these issues all along.
I have no wish to denounce your guru, but I have much greater confidence in the most respected and widely recognized great Dharma teachers from various Tibetan Buddhist schools, including HHDL and HE Ganden Tri Ripnoche from Gelugpa, and all the heads and distinguished Rinpoches from Nyingmapa, Sakyapa and Kagyupa, who have all clearly opposed to the practice of that being. With all due respect to you as a fellow sentient being, if your sharing in this thread are true, then I sincerely wish that, with the same courage you had in re-evaluating and then walking away from Ee Kwan Tao, you will have that same courage to re-evaluate the current organization you are in.
As stated in the rules of this forum, all postings on organizations that practise that particular being will be removed.
If any negativity has occurred due to lack of skilfulness on my part, I confess and pray that all negativities be transformed into conditions for you and all other beings to meet with authentic gurus and Dharma, and thus be swiftly liberated.
From the way you posted, it does seem that you have already been aware of the controversy surrounding your guru and organization, yet you chose to skirt around the issue and kept quiet about where you were coming from. After the forum owner reiterated the officially stance of the forum, now you come out and reveal that you actually knew about these issues all along.
Yes I knew what has been going on clearly, of course i have to protect my identity as there are many odds here. We are not set up for political manipulations, but ours are purely Bodhicitta motivation and what we wanted is to give stainless Dharma (Buddha's Teachings) to the sentinent beings or at least let sentinent have the chance to see Buddha's relics to bless their mindstreams. For seeing relics has so much benefits and also spured senitent to have stronger faith in Buddhism and to pursue for liberation from samsara.
Budhha cannot use water to wash away our sins
nor can they use hands to remove our sufferings
nor can they transfer their attainments to others
But they could offer Dharma (Buddha's Teachings) to liberate the sentinent beings
I have no wish to denounce your guru, but I have much greater confidence in the most respected and widely recognized great Dharma teachers from various Tibetan Buddhist schools, including HHDL and HE Ganden Tri Ripnoche from Gelugpa, and all the heads and distinguished Rinpoches from Nyingmapa, Sakyapa and Kagyupa, who have all clearly opposed to the practice of that being. With all due respect to you as a fellow sentient being, if your sharing in this thread are true, then I sincerely wish that, with the same courage you had in re-evaluating and then walking away from Ee Kwan Tao, you will have that same courage to re-evaluate the current organization you are in.
Well, these big heads are being influnced by HHDL's political power unforunately, even HE Ganden Tri Rinpoche from Gelugpa is being controlled. But mind you! It is the fact that the Gelug Lineage Masters who are the Enlightened beings who have recongized and relied on Dorje Shugden!
Well, I am very confident that I am having the Best of Je Tsong Kha Pa and Buddha's teachings. Real gold does not fear fire, as from the way how a master speaks and act, one could gauge the level of wisdom and intelligence of that person. I have yet to see anyone on par up (Mulamadhyamakakarika or Middle View) till this moment. All who dared to challenge debate on Dharma has failed in reasoning. From the valid reasoning given, one can distinguish right from wrong about the on going tensions of the history of controversy.
Morever, I have plucked the courage to tell my stupid pasts so as to inspire the rest and how important is to have a qualified guide and also how precious is Dharma, while the rest of mother sentinents are still wandering aimlessly.
It is those people like you who are misleaded by HHDL who shun and does not care to understand or find out about us. Or what kind of dharma teachings we have. It is only when a sword is being used to cut, if not how one find out the sharpness of the sword. Gelug are know for their wisdom and prowness, only those show their with ablities by debating etc. can be make it to the on the top.
Saraha was being maglined as being a shame to the Buddhist society and induldging Himself with prositutes, even the high lamas and the Nalanda scholars scorned on His behaviour. It was Nagajurna who did not follow the rest of the crowds and knew His Guru's motivation and having faith. It is only when Saraha gathered the gossiping crowds and He started embracing a prositute and both transformed into Hevajra & Vajravarahi and flew up into the sky. The crowrd were stunned and started to regret and confessed their doings and took refuge to his disciple, Nagajurna. (Saraha's act was nothing but to lure the sentinents like fishes and cast his net, then to be salvaged by his disciple, Nagajurna)
I hope that you are not amongst those crowd of people, whom follow suit bilndly and have no idea that they have reprimanded a real Enlightened Being ...
As stated in the rules of this forum, all postings on organizations that practise that particular being will be removed.
If any negativity has occurred due to lack of skilfulness on my part, I confess and pray that all negativities be transformed into conditions for you and all other beings to meet with authentic gurus and Dharma, and thus be swiftly liberated.
It is ok that it is being removed since there are odds here. I also felt the same way as mentioned on lack of skillfulness. Same for both you and me, our motivation is for sentinent to aquire Dharma and achiceve Liberation by attaining Buddhahood. Nice meeting you guys and hopefully you will distingiush the truth and understand what i am doing here. Sincerely hope that all including you will gain Enlightenment quickly.
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Originally posted by _wanderer_:
His Holiness the Dalai Lama's Advice Concerning Dolgyal (Shugden)
Following long and careful investigations, His Holiness the Dalai Lama strongly discourages Tibetan Buddhists from propitiating the fierce spirit known as Dolgyal (Shugden). Although he once practised Dolgyal propitiation himself, His Holiness renounced the practice in 1975 after discovering the profound historical, social and religious problems associated with it. He did so with the full knowledge and support of his junior tutor, the late Kyabje Trichang Rinpoche through whom His Holiness first became associated with the practice. Even within the Geluk and Sakya schools - the Tibetan Buddhist traditions to which majority of Dolgyal practitioners belong - the propitiation of this spirit has been controversial throughout its history. Historical investigation reveals that Dolgyal practice, which has strong sectarian overtones, has a history of contributing to a climate of sectarian disharmony in various parts of Tibet, and between various Tibetan communities. Therefore, from 1975 onwards, His Holiness has regularly made public his view that this practice is inadvisable, based on the following three reasons:
1. The danger of Tibetan Buddhism degenerating into a form of spirit worship: Tibetan Buddhism originally evolved from the authentic and ancient tradition upheld at the great Indian monastic university of Nalanda, a tradition that His Holiness often describes as a complete form of Buddhism. It embodies the original teaching of the Buddha as developed through the rich philosophical, psychological and spiritual insights of such great Buddhist masters as Nagarjuna, Asanga, Vasubandhu, Dignaga and Dharamakirti. Since the great philosopher and logician Shantarakshita was instrumental in establishing Buddhism in Tibet in its earliest stages in the 8th century, philosophical enquiry and critical analysis have always been important hallmarks of Tibetan Buddhism. The problem with Dolgyal practice is that it presents the spirit Dolgyal (Shugden) as a Dharma protector and what's more tends to promote the spirit as more important than the Buddha himself. If this trend goes unchecked, and innocent people become seduced by cult-like practices of this kind, the danger is that the rich tradition of Tibetan Buddhism may degenerate into the mere propitiation of spirits.
2. Obstacles to the emergence of genuine non-sectarianism: His Holiness has often stated that one of his most important commitments is the promotion of inter-religious understanding and harmony. As part of this endeavour, His Holiness is committed to encouraging non-sectarianism in all schools of Tibetan Buddhism. In this His Holiness is following the example set by his predecessors, especially the Fifth Dalai Lama and the Thirteenth Dalai Lama. Not only is a non-sectarian approach mutually enriching for all Tibetan Buddhist schools, but it is also the best safeguard against a rise of sectarianism that could have damaging consequences for the Tibetan tradition as a whole. Given the acknowledged link between Dolgyal worship and sectarianism, this particular practice remains a fundamental obstacle to fostering a genuine non-sectarian spirit within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.
3. Especially inappropriate in relation to the well-being of Tibetan society:Propitiating Dolgyal is particularly troublesome, given the Tibetan people's present difficult circumstances. Textual and historical research demonstrates that the spirit Dolgyal arose out of hostility to the great Fifth Dalai Lama and his government. The Fifth Dalai Lama, who assumed both the spiritual and temporal leadership of Tibet in the 17th century, personally denounced Dolgyal as a malevolent spirit that arose out of misguided intentions and is detrimental to the welfare of beings in general and the Tibetan government headed by the Dalai Lamas in particular. The Thirteenth Dalai Lama and other respected Tibetan spiritual masters have also spoken out strongly against this practice. Therefore, in the current Tibetan context, in which unity among the Tibetan people is vitally important, engaging in this controversial and divisive propitiatory practice is inappropriate.
His Holiness has strongly urged his followers to consider carefully the problems of Dolgyal practice on the basis of these three reasons and to act accordingly. He has stated that, as a Buddhist leader with a special concern for the Tibetan people, it is his responsibility to speak out against the damaging consequences of this kind of spirit worship. Whether or not his advice is heeded, His Holiness has made clear, is a matter for the individual. However, since he personally feels strongly about how negative this practice is, he has requested those who continue to propitiate Dolgyal not to attend his formal religious teachings, which traditionally require the establishment of a teacher-disciple relationship.
Lenghty words are usless and not required as a matter of fact that Je Phangbonka, Tagpo Rinpoche, Trijang Rinpoche, Song Rinpoche, Zemei Rinpoche and the rest of the great Gelug lineage masters all have relied on Dorje Shugden also. To point fault or flaws of one's lineage masters means that is to point that those Enlightened Masters or to point that Buddha is wrong . This is equal to turning one's back to the lineage masters.
Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen who had the courage to take up the vow to become the uncommon Protector for Gelug doctrine in front of Je Tsong Kha Pa. Je Lama made prediction and It was several lifetimes Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen took several rebirth and become Dorje Shugden, the Gelug Doctrince Uncommon Protector.
Eariler there was a cut and paste of Song Rinpoche chanting Dorje Shugden Sadanna video being removed. Song Rinpoche was the top debater in Gelug and was feared by every lamas and even High ranking living Buddhas around. He will point out every mistakes made by everyone and will mete out punishments swifty. Even Trijang Rinpoche was not spared by His scoldings. Song Rinpoche was considered the manifestation of wrathful Vajrapani and was also known for his powerful magic prowness.
Preharps you wanna ask the Gelug Lamas now that if Song Rinpoche is doing a wrong practise all along!!!
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Having negative thoughts and speech towards your own lineage heads is not a wise deed.
I will suggest you meet up with HHDL yourself one day to determine if he is really as you have perceived.
It is not only HHDL and HE Ganden Tripa who have denounced that practice. (Note: They have never spoken even one negative word about their gurus even when denouncing the practice. This is something we all can and should learn from, even when you perceive them doing something you disagree with)
If I were you, I would seriously wonder why all the other lineage heads and recognised enlightened masters unanimously denounce this practice. I hope you are not thinking that all of them are "political" and are either "deceived" or "deceiving". Would your perception be more enlightened than ALL of them?
HE Ganden Tripa Rinpoche's explanation I pasted above has given very important information. The Buddha's teachings have always been non-sectarian, and this "we're at the top" way of thinking can only come from non-enlightened beings. Sectarianism will destroy not only Gelugpa but the whole of Tibetan Buddhism.
I am not challenging you and I am not interested to win. I do not have enough Bodhicitta, but I am very sure that HHDL and the other masters do care enough to be regularly making heartfelt bodhicitta prayers for you, for that being, as well as all sentient beings.
Enough has been said. This topic should be closed to prevent the further negative acts be performed in speech or in thought.
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Originally posted by Blueraya:
Lenghty words are usless and not required as a matter of fact that Je Phangbonka, Tagpo Rinpoche, Trijang Rinpoche, Song Rinpoche, Zemei Rinpoche and the rest of the great Gelug lineage masters all have relied on Dorje Shugden also. To point fault or flaws of one's lineage masters means that is to point that those Enlightened Masters or to point that Buddha is wrong . This is equal to turning one's back to the lineage masters.
Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen who had the courage to take up the vow to become the uncommon Protector for Gelug doctrine in front of Je Tsong Kha Pa. Je Lama made prediction and It was several lifetimes Duldzin Drakpa Gyaltsen took several rebirth and become Dorje Shugden, the Gelug Doctrince Uncommon Protector.
Eariler there was a cut and paste of Song Rinpoche chanting Dorje Shugden Sadanna video being removed. Song Rinpoche was the top debater in Gelug and was feared by every lamas and even High ranking living Buddhas around. He will point out every mistakes made by everyone and will mete out punishments swifty. Even Trijang Rinpoche was not spared by His scoldings. Song Rinpoche was considered the manifestation of wrathful Vajrapani and was also known for his powerful magic prowness.
Preharps you wanna ask the Gelug Lamas now that if Song Rinpoche is doing a wrong practise all along!!!
Sigh.... facepalm in silence ....