Ego Clinging.

**Shechen Gyaltsap Pema Namgyal**:

**As a mental exercise to vanquish ego-clinging,

Recollect all the times you have been wronged.

First, think of all the obscuring emotions

And the notion that beings and phenomena truly exist,

Which create obstacles to the higher aspirations

Of all beings in general and of Dharma practicioners in particular,

And the difficulties and adversities arising from these.

The gather all of them with your inhalation,

Dissolve it into your own ego-clinging

And destroy the curse itself.

Gather into one essential point

A fierce determination to eliminate ego-clinging

Together with its antidote

And the meditation practice that averts it.**

To know is to not suffer. As the source of pain by the five obscuring emotions, the eight wordly concerns and all afflictive mental factors is ego-clinging.

Clinging to an invented concept is making the narrow prisonlike dwelling and painful frustrating self concern.

**Shantideva**:

"There is immeasurable virtue,

In wanting to cure even the mildest headache of a single being,

What about wanting to dispel

All of the sufferings of all beings?"

Gratefulness to all compassionated ones, altruistic sharing insight for the sake of others. Along interconnection with them (compassionate wise ones) to  no separate openess; is undoing subtle clinging. _/\_ _/\_ _/\_

Interdependency.

"The wisdom of emptiness refers to a lack of something: 'inherent existence'. 'Inherent existence' means that things appear to exist independently, in- and out of themselves, from the side of the object, by way of its' own character, self-powered, autonomous.

Ultimately however, things exist in dependence upon causes and conditions. For example, a human being ceases to exist in a vacuum, we would instantly die when all conditions for life are suddenly gone. On another level, a human being needs to come into existence by the combination of a sperm from the father joining an egg from the mother and all the right conditions to grow into an embryo.

So, considering ourselves as independently existing, fully autonomous is a mere illusion and does not accord with ultimate reality. Ultimate wisdom can be compared to eco-thinking in biology: a century ago, biology focused mainly on categorising species of animals and plants and describing their specific aspects.

Plants and animals were cut to ever smaller pieces to analyse how they function. However, nature also functions at a completely different level; as relations and processes between living beings. Ecology appeared as a new branch of biology, more dealing with relations, cycles and interdependence of animals, plants and surroundings.

This is somewhat similar to the view of emptiness. Instead of focusing on differences and individuality, the realisation of emptiness is about realising that nothing exists by itself alone, but depends on other things. Just as all living beings rely on other living beings - at least their ancestors, so do even inanimate objects depend on other objects, conditions, parts and processes to arise and disappear. The fact that we normally do not realise emptiness and the relatedness of things is directly related to our perception. As soon as we perceive something in the outside world, it feels different from our own body or mind.

We feel as if other things are "out there", separate from "my self", which is "in here". But are they really separate? To begin with, if the outer object would not somehow "relate" to us in the form of sound, smell, light etc., we would be unable to perceive it. So our perception of objects depends on interaction, rather than the fact that we are separate.

To put it simple, our perception of the world is only possible because of interaction, interrelation, dependence and exchange of information."

As scientist often try to discuss, I really like to add the easy way of explanations by youtubes like this. It is just great that science is coming near by Buddhism which is specially in these times showing important investigation and not merely a blind belief or phantasies of cultures. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qj_i7YqDwJA

*Saraha:" The cross-eyed fool sees one lamp as two; the vision and the viewer are one."

The experience of interdependency-emptiness is powerfully opening concern for all sentient beings in interpenetrating  joy and love, in equanimity, the concern for the environnement; interdependent with all beings. 

The enormous importance for purifying body speech and mind is clear. Then spontaneously, no imaginations or elaborated explanations are adding something.

All beings in completely peace. Om Mani Peme Hung. _/\_

The Heart Sutra

The Heart Sutra

The Prajñaparamita Mantra famously concludes the shorter version of the Heart Sutra (Prajnaparamita Hridaya).

Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva,
when pursuing the deep prajñaparamita,
recognized the five skandhas as completely empty
and passed beyond all vexations and distress.

Shariputra, appearances are not different from emptiness,
emptiness is not different to appearances.
Appearances are emptiness,
emptiness is an appearance.

Impressions, thoughts, associations
and knowing too, are also like this.
Shariputra, all dharmas are empty of appearances,
are not created, are not extinguished,
are not defiled, are not pure;
do not increase, do not decrease.

For this reason, amidst emptiness there are no appearances,
nor are there any impressions, thoughts, associations and knowing,
There is no eye, ear, nose, tongue, touch, ideas.
There are no colors, sounds, smells,
tastes and touch dharmas.
There is no eye-element up to no imagining nor knowledge element.
Neither is any non-understanding,
nor is there any end to non-understanding up to no old-age and death.
Neither is there any end to old-age and death.
There is no suffering, cause, extinction or path.
There is no knowledge nor anything to find.

Because there isn’t anything to find,
the bodhisattva is free because of relying upon prajñaparamita:
a heart without any obstruction.

Because there are no obstructions, there is no fear.
Abandoning, overturning dreams and concepts,
finally reaches nirvana.

Because all the Buddhas of the three times have relied upon prajñaparamita, they have found anuttarasamyaksambodhi.

For this reason, know prajñaparamita is the great spiritual mantra.
The great understanding mantra.
The supreme mantra.
The unequaled mantra, able to cut through all vexation
because in reality there is no emptiness.

Speak the prajñaparamita mantra, speak the mantra’s words:

gate gate paragate parasamgate bodhi svaha.

(Chinese to English translation, by Willam J. Giddings, 2003)

From Wildmind.org

Facebook does have some purpose sometimes

A dear dharma friend, to whom I owe a ton of gratitude just found me on Facebook.  As much as I dislike social networking sites, things like this make it useful.  I’m so happy, so very happy!

Energy Yoga.

Short introduction:

http://www.beyou.tv/videos/Tibetan-Energy-Yoga

Easy  is this small exercise which gives really a burst of refreshing energy and also courage. Try it out and good to not give an uppercut to someone near my arms.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylSzmufW7sI Enjoy!

Torture in our world.

http://www1.voanews.com/english/news/human-rights/Torture-Widespread-Around-World-87258147.html

It is a danger to get used on all torture we see on TV, we hear on the radio and we read in the newspapers. As we are all interconnected beings, forming this mirror world.

There is no any outerworld at all, neither an inner which is protected by a selfish boss! The harm to brothers and sisters is the harm to our being interrelated! But the others are with more than our own being only. We shouldn't "peacefully" accept by our blind silence. TALK!

Talk and act without poison. Afflictions are poison and are of no any help. The perpetuators, in the mist of obscurated actions,  need our compassion (with skills) as much as the hard suffering victims. Whatever we can do, we do.  Being very careful with concepts and acts so that at least nobody is harmed.

http://www.google.be/imgres?imgurl=http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/images/stories/large/2008/08/13/torture_57514181.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/china/evidence-torture-hidden-from-journalists-beijing-olympics-2654.html&h=531&w=750&sz=41&tbnid=KdJkxH5Ty-f5oM:&tbnh=100&tbnw=141&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dchinese%2Bprisons&hl=nl&usg=__s-6MovPt-Reh_xTKB3WwmnUxmJc=&ei=Cgv5S7usNsGLONCziZUM&sa=X&oi=image_result&resnum=5&ct=image&ved=0CC0Q9QEwBA

Practice of Bodhichitta in action,  being an interactive helping hand for Human Rights Activists. Each good idea here about, even very small, can make our world more peaceful.

I dedicate to my worldwide brothers and sisters, non of them can be excluded, all of them are my very heart.

Care for animals.

http://gomestic.com/pets/why-we-need-animal-shelters/

A helpless dog with three legs, chased by cars at the side of the road.

Hungry dogs with painful skin deseases being chased away by monkeys and laughters.

In rich countries the animal is easely put on the road, aside on a tree when people's holiday starts.

Animals in too small stinky places, the only place they ever will know during their life.

Too many baby pets with unsure life quality can be avoided.

Therefore please dearest friends in this world; we must take care of them! They cannot do it themselves, they often are offering their life for the selfish pleasures of humans. Please announce an animal care center or the police when torture or an abandoned animal is seen.

By the great example of His Holiness The Dalai Lama is there a care center for pets in Dharamsala, India. Shops are selling pedigree food and chapatis are regullarly shared with the street dogs. As dogs are not just meat eaters, they are all-eaters.

In England and New Zealand I saw on TV a really good care system for those in need. Only it is up to people to announce cases in time; to avoid such hard suffering.

http://www.tibetcharity.in/acs_news.html

From the core of my heart, thanks to all who respect animals welfare!

THANK YOU FRIENDS. _/\_

The teaching shadow.

Pigeons and travellers were walking around and their body was in the compagny of a fellow. A shadow remained following.  That shadow, like the shadow of death is not disconnected of life. One cannot put him aside to continue the walk alone,  this body and its shadow are impermanent.

Impermanence of  that energy in dreamlike life. An instable dream, constructed by moving thoughts. Ha!  It is that fictitious dream thing with its' shadow, which is getting continuously birth, continuously dying.

The importance of this life becomes clear. To cling in exhausting frustrations to the me-bubble in this moment which we call life, or see this shadow like fiction by creativity of thoughts.

Some people were dressed with very expensive outfits, some hopped there body around on tiny shoes with high heels and lots of ornaments wherever possible. But even those very expensive ornaments, couldn't escape the shadow of impermanence, always following in the late evening sunbeams. 

Ha!   To purify and be free in emptiness. Long meaningful life without fear.

Her Eminence Jetsun Kushok

H.E. Jetsun Kushok had a stroke today.  Please say long life prayers for her.  The first one I'm posting here was given to me from a Sakya center.  The second is taken from DharmaWheel.net Buddhist discussion forum.  The author is Karma Dondrup Tashi.

HER EMINENCE SAKYA JETSUN CHIMEY LUDING
Through the blessings of an ocean of divinities
Of longevity and immortality
Coming from the celestial race of luminosity
You grant the glory of great bliss
Wealth with the vast activity of tantric vidyadharas,
Chief among dakinis, we supplicate you to live long.

Protectress of the Dharma and of Beings, you arose from
The lineage and the teachings of revered Sakya
The radiant sun of the enlightened one's religion,
Turn fully the Wheel for attaining deathlessness
And make the twofold deeds grow evermore.

Traversing the path of deathless freedom,
Ripen your mind, acquire the fortune of liberation.
May you gaze directly upon the face of reality
And dwell always in joy that does not fail.

_/|\_

Through the blessings of an ocean of divinities
Of longevity and immortality
Coming from the celestial race of luminosity
You grant the glory of great bliss
Wealth with the vast activity of tantric vidyadharas,
Chief among dakinis, we supplicate you to live long.

Protectress of the Dharma and of Beings, you arose from
The lineage and the teachings of revered Sakya
The radiant sun of the enlightened one's religion,
Turn fully the Wheel for attaining deathlessness
And make the twofold deeds grow evermore.

Traversing the path of deathless freedom,
Ripen your mind, acquire the fortune of liberation.
May you gaze directly upon the face of reality
And dwell always in joy that does not fail.

Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum
Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum Om Mani Padme Hum

When Anger Arises

The antidote to anger is not compassion, as one might think.

The antidote to anger is patience.

Buddha Shakyamuni.

Tibet 21 may, USA 20 may.

On the special birthday, the wish for freedom for all sentient beings by so  many; is the result of the great kindness of Buddha Shakyamuni, his wonderful teaching.

May all sentient beings see the dream of the cloudlike cage and be free in the vastness of  genuine peace.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXgEApkgXas&feature=related

Short Practice, prayer for a person's continued life

Hri Du Sum Sang Gye Kun Gyi Ngo Wo Nyi

(Hri essence of the buddhas of the three times)

Dro Nam Ma Lu Drol Way Dep Pon Chok
Sublime guide who frees all beings

Or Gen Pema Rig Dzin Tse Pak Me
Orgyen Pema Rigdzin Tse.pa.me

Dak Gi Lu Ngak Yid Sum Jin Lob La
Bless my body speech and mind

Chi Me Tse Yi Ngo Drup Tsal Du Sol
Bestow the power of immortal life

OM,  GURU AYU SIDDHI, HUNG, HRI.
AMARANI  JIVANTAYE, SWAHA    (100 x)

Ge Wa Di Yi Nyur Du Dag
By this virtuous practice

Tse Pag Me Gon Drub Jur Ne
May I quickly attain the realisation of Amitayus

Dro Wa Chio Chang Ma Lu Pa
Accomplishing this, may I liberate all
Sentient beings without exception

De Yi Sa Lo Go Par Shog
Into that same realisation.

Amitayus is considered the samboghakaya form of Amitabha.  In Tibetan, he is called  Tse-pameh. The scripture describing him is The Shorter [or, Lesser] Sukhavati Text  (Skt. Sukhavati-viyuha) and in it we are given the key to understanding the true nature of deities in Buddhism.

Tse.pag.med (pron. Tse-pa-meh or cheh-pah-meh) is depicted holding a flask of amrita, the nectar of immortality which confers longevity.  Often an ashok [anti-suffering] tree grows from the vase looking something like a heap of raspberries or a cluster of grapes.

Scriptural Basis

Thus have I heard:

Once the Buddha was dwelling in the Anathapindada Garden of Jetavana in the country of Shravasti together with a large company of Bhikshus of twelve hundred and fifty members. They were all great Arhats ...  all great Shravakas [hearers or disciples]; and with many Bodhisattva - mahasattvas ... all great Bodhisattvas; and also with a large company of innumerable devas: Shakra-Indra, etc.

Then the Bhagavat addressed the honoured Shariputra and said, "O Shariputra, after you have passed from here over a hundred thousand kotis of Buddha countries there is in the Western part a Buddha  country, a world called Sukhatvati (the happy country). And there a Tathagata, called Amitayus, an Arhat, fully enlightened, dwells now, and remains, and supports himself, and teaches the Dharma.

"Now what do you think, Shariputra, for what reason is that world called Sukhavati (the happy)? In that world of Sukhavati, O Shariputra, there is neither bodily nor mental pain for living beings. The sources of happiness are innumerable there. For that reason is that world called Sukhavati (the happy).

"And again, O Shariputra, that world Sukhavati is adorned with seven terraces, with seven rows of palm-trees, and with strings of bells.  It is enclosed on every side, beautiful, brilliant with the four gems, viz. gold, silver, beryl and crystal. With such arrays of excellences peculiar to a Buddha country is that Buddha country adorned."

"And again, O Shariputra, when those rows of palm trees and strings of bells in that Buddha country are moved by the wind, a sweet and enrapturing sound proceeds from them. Yes, O Shariputra, as from a heavenly musical instrument consisting of a hundred thousand kotis of sounds, when played by Aryas, a sweet and enrapturing sound proceeds,  a sweet and captivating sound proceeds from those rows of palm-trees and strings of bells moved by the wind. And when the men hear the sound, reflection on the Buddha arises in them, reflection on the Dharma arises in them, reflection on the Sangha arises in them."

"And what do you think, O Shariputra, for what reason is that Tathagata called Amitayus? The length of life (=ayus), O Shariputra, of that Tathagata and of those men there is immeasurable (amita).  Therefore is that Tathagata called Amitayus. And ten kalpas have passed, O Shariputra, since that Tathagata awoke to perfect knowledge."

"Then again all beings, O Shariputra, ought to make fervent prayers for that Buddha country. And why? Because they come together there with such excellent men. Beings are not born in that Buddha country of the Tathagata Amitayus as a reward and result of good works performed in this present life. No, whatever son or daughter of a family shall hear the name of the blessed Amitayus, the Tathagata, and having heard it, shall keep it in mind, and with thoughts undisturbed shall keep it in mind for one, two, three, four, five, six or seven nights -- when that son or daughter of a family comes to die, then that Amitayus, the Tathagata, surrounded by an assembly of disciples and followed by a host of Bodhisattvas, will stand before them at their hour of death, and they will depart this life with tranquil minds. After their death they will be born in the world Sukhavati, in the Buddha country of the same Amitayus, the Tathagata."

~ Sukhavati-Vyuha (Max Muller trans.)

http://www.khandro.net/deity_Amitayus.htm

This was posted at Dharma Wheel Buddhist Form

It was also posted at Freesangha Buddhist Forum

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

Human rights for women and Dalits are unthinkable.

(UNHRC) proposes to equate all discrimination on the basis of caste, occupation and descent as violation of Human rights and also deliberated on the recognition of caste as race. Nearly 200 million people all over the world are victims of such discrimination of which more than 160 million existed in India.

Despite Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s conviction that untouchability is apartheid, India is opposing this move and so far has been taking the stand that caste issues should not be internationalized as caste is not race and it’s our internal matter.

BJP’s opposition to the UNHRC efforts is quite understandable, as its politics is based around the Hindutva ideology and as per that human rights for women and Dalits are unthinkable. But surprisingly, Manmohan Singh who equated untouchability with apartheid is also quite on this issue.

India, which is propagating itself to be a true democracy with rich civil rights, is ignoring  that its 160 million Dalits or untouchables still suffer from deplorable caste discrimination and  are deprived of even basic rights such as right to life and security. In addition to being target of physical and sexual violence, Dalits are often required to eat and drink from separate containers and restaurants, attend separate religious services, walk miles to get water and work in degrading conditions.

India is truly a flawed democracy as it failed to implement the laws, which provide protection against such caste discriminations.
Dalits literally meaning "broken people" or "oppressed" in Hindi are the lowest members of Hindu caste system in India.

The caste system is a Hindu hierarchical class structure in which Dalits are beyond caste. Dalits undertake occupations that the rest of Indian society found filthy and embarrassing and also receive ill-treatment from the members of the higher castes, particularly from Brahmins.

For example Brahmins would have to bathe if a Dalit shadow fell on them, would not eat food prepared by Dalits, and would not drink from the same wells as Dalits. They are not allowed to defy caste system and punished otherwise.
 Although article 17 of the Indian Constitution banned untouchability in 1950, Dalits still suffer widespread discrimination and mistreatment.

Local law enforcement personnel often refuse to document, investigate and respond adequately to Dalits' complaints. Upper caste members often threaten and assault Dalits who dare protest against their mistreatment. The traditional practices of segregation between upper castes and Dalits are continuing in India.

Despite the system of quotas for government employment, they rarely rise above traditional Dalit occupations. The existence of quotas often fuels upper caste disdain for Dalits. In the private sector, even the educated Dalits struggle to succeed. In many communities upper caste members still expect Dalits to perform their traditional occupations without pay.

Dalit children are subjected to human rights abuses. These children are common victims of bonded labour practices, even though bonded labour is outlawed in India. When Dalit families become indebted to money lenders, Dalit children are often forced to work off these debts.

Due to the low wages these children are paid, they can rarely even earn enough money to pay back their debts and break free from their labour obligations. Additionally, Dalit girls are selected for the practice of Devdasi or marriage to temple deities. As a part of Devdasi these girls must serve in the temple and perform sexual services for temple workers.

Dalits are also the targets of hate crimes and violence. According to the National Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, a total of 99,749 cases of crimes against lower castes were reported from July 2004 to August 2006, including 2,389 murders and 4,814 rapes. Many more cases go unreported.

 Although India is obligated under several International Instruments to uphold Dalit rights, there is little enforcement to ensure that India meets its obligations under International Law. First, as a UN member state, thus is bound to the provisions in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

The articles I & II of UDHR state that “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights" and that the human rights protected in the UDHR belong to everyone without distinction of any kind, such as race, colour, sex, language, religion,  national or social origin, property, birth or other status".

India is violating its obligations under the UDHR as it has failed to protect Dalits against discrimination, degradation and violence.
Second, India has also failed to meet its obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) which it ratified on 10 April 1979.

Not only does the ICCPR protect against discrimination of “any kind" including discrimination based on “social origin" but it also protects against  torture, degrading treatment, arbitrary arrest, detention, and promotes equality in the courts and equal protection of the law.

In failing to respect and ensure Dalits rights, India is not complying with ICCPR.       
 Third, India has failed to protect Dalit workers in accordance with its obligations under the International Labour Organization Convention (No 107) which it ratified on 29 September 1958.

Under convention 107, India is obligated to protect the “institutions, persons, property and labour" of members of tribal or semi tribal populations.
Finally, Dalit children, who are forced into bonded labour, or the practice of Devdasi, are protected under the provisions in the Convention of Rights of the Child of 1989 (CRC), which it ratified on 11 December 1992.

In Article 32, the CRC protects against “Economic exploitation" and the performance of “any work that is likely to be hazardous...or to be harmful to the child's health or physical, mental, spiritual, moral or social development". Both the practices of child-bonded labour and the practice of Devdasi violate India's commitment under the CRC. 

 
Consequently, Dalits are converting their religion in order to get honour and prestige in the society. They are joining Buddhism to escape from the caste system which discriminates them as untouchables and forces slavery. Commenting on this phenomenon Dalai Lama, Tibetan Buddhist spiritual leader said,

***“They want to embrace Buddhism because it is a free religion. It is open to all. It preaches non-violence and is not divided on the basis of caste"***. 

 So how can India claim to be a big democracy where the minorities being the citizens are not enjoying liberty and freedom and live as a second class citizen? The Indian government has done nothing to remove caste prejudice and to provide justice to poor and powerless. The so-called true democratic India needs to shake up its tranquilized conscience before it is too late. As rightly pointed out by
Khushwant Singh, “Far from becoming mahaan (great), India is going to the dogs, and unless a miracle saves us, the country will break up".

Laughter

This quote was so fabulous I had to share it.

Since everything is but an apparition, having nothing to do with good or bad, acceptance or rejection, one may well burst out in laughter.

-Longchenpa

TYC calls for Immediate Release of Panchen Lama

May the Panchen Lama be well and in good health physically and spiritually. May he swiftly be returned to society and released from house arrest. May be have happiness and the causes of happiness, always  _/\_ TYC calls for Immediate Release of Panchen Lama

Phayul [Monday, May 17, 2010 14:04]

By Phurbu Thinley

Dharamsala, May 17: The members of the Tibetan Youth Congress, the largest pro-independence organisation in the exile Tibetan community, Monday organised peaceful protest march here asking the Chinese communist regime to release Gendhun Choekyi Nyima, the boy recognised by the Dalai Lama as the 11th Panchen Lama in 1995, from its captivity.

Monday marked 15 years since the Chinese authorities secretly abducted Gendhun Choekyi Nyima along with his parents on May 17, 1995, three days after His Holiness the Dalai Lama declared him to be the reincarnation of the previous Panchen Lama. He was only six years old then.

Gendhun Choekyi Nyima turned 21 last month, but his whereabouts and safety has been unknown since he first disappeared out of public view.

Over the years Tibetans and their supporters around the world have routinely marked his birthdays and disappearance by organising “Free Panchen Lama” campaigns, candle light vigils and signature campaigns.

Chinese Government claims that his whereabouts are kept undisclosed to protect him, but all requests for access to him, including requests and pressure from various governments and rights, have been repeatedly refused so far.

In a statement released here today, Tibetan Youth Congress said it was high time for China to show the 11th Panchen Lama to the international community to confirm his wellbeing, and that he be allowed to resume his spiritual role to maintain the unbroken lineage of the successive Panchen Lamas.

Accusing the Chinese government of interfering in the religious affairs of the Tibetan people for its own “political benefits”, the statement urged the international community to exert pressure on Beijing to secure the immediate release of the Panchen Lama, his family and others associated with the finding of the Panchen Lama.

The organisation also organised signature campaigns here today and will hold hold a candle light vigil late in evening to offer prayers for his wellbeing.

Panchen Lama is revered by Tibetans as the second highest tulku lineage in the Gelugpa tradition of Tibetan Buddhism and one of the most influential spiritual leaders of Tibet.

Traditionally, the Panchen Lama bears part of the responsibility for finding the incarnation of the Dalai Lama and vice versa, a practice many say has prompted China to install another boy, Gyaltsen Norbu, as the Panchen Lama.

Gyaltsen, who is generally not recognised by Tibetans, is being used by Beijing to supplant the Dalai Lama as the public face of Tibetan Buddhism in Tibet and elsewhere in China. In recent years he has taken on an increasingly political role and was recently appointed to China's top government advisory body.

The latest statement by the Chinese authorities concerning the fate of the Gendhun Choekyi Nyima came two months ago from Pema Thinley, the Chinese-appointed governor of the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR). Thinley told reporters on the sidelines of China's annual legislative session in Beijing earlier in March that the young boy was living with his family and having a “very good life” somewhere in Tibet. He, however, gave no further details.

Article at Phayul.com

FPMT Streaming Radio

You can listen for free to FPMT (Foundation for the Preservation of Mahayana) live streaming radio at this site:

http://www.kunkyab.org/

Buddhist Wallpapers

I found two wallpapers that I think are really pretty for your computer screen.  Follow the link and then right click to save.  Enjoy!

This one is 1024x655   http://tinypic.com/view.php?pic=1zz72tf&s=6

This one is 1024x640   http://tinypic.com/view.php?pic=a3csvk&s=6

Picture Time

I have a couple of different shrines.  One is for my guru, and another is for an assembly of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.  I'm in a sharing mood today (sharing is caring, right?) so I'll post one here.   It's a little bit plain and it's definitely humble; it's a work in progress.  But I'll post it anyhow  :)



And here is the Buddha that sits on the table by my computer:



And here are some thangkas that were a gift to me.  Some very special monks gave them to me and I really appreciated it.

Benefits of the Golden Light Sutra

Benefits of Sutra of the Golden Light According to Lama Zopa Rinpoche

You can download it here: http://www.fpmt.org/teachers/zopa/advice/goldenlight.asp

Lama Zopa Rinpoche says:

'This text is very precious; it brings peace and happiness and is very powerful to stop violence. It gives incredible protection to the country from violence etc. By hearing this text, one's karma gets purified.

This text increases success and, especially for leaders like kings or presidents, brings success in guiding in virtue, the path to happiness. If anyone has problems-if one is dying or dead; if the devas have turned against one and nothing is working; if, merely by expressing oneself, one’s friends, loved ones, husband, wife, family members and even servants get angry with one; if one’s wealth declines or if one has harm from black magic or spirits, with bad dreams or fearful things happening-then one should wash, put on clean clothes and with a peaceful mind listen to the transmission of this text. Then all will be pacified. Anyone who hears it creates much merit and is highly admired by the buddhas.

In whichever country this is taught, the whole country benefits. The king of that country doesn't get attacked and disease is eliminated, everyone is happy and the country becomes harmonious; there are no quarrels. The king gives religious freedom and is always protected by the devas. It is especially good to be read in places where there is a lot of fighting. As well, there is prosperity and rains come at the right time.

Anyone who keeps, memorizes or contributes to this text exceeds the eight worldly beings and all their wishes get fulfilled. Buddha told the four guardians to make offerings and serve this text, and always protect the people who memorize or even just read it. The four guardians acknowledged they would protect those who read it and would help and fulfill all their wishes.

Memorizing or making offerings to this text is like making inconceivable offerings to Buddha. Enlightenment will never be reversed within anyone in whose ear these holy words are spoken; the life will always be directed toward enlightenment and one will never fall back. There is no question if you memorize the text. The deva, Hamachiwa Pala, told Buddha that she will protect the bhikshu who recites this text and he will receive all that is needed: property, a stable mind and so forth. Whoever even tries to read or understand this text will experience the comfort and happiness of devas and humans for 100 billion eons; fame and perfect crops; and will become a buddha. The earth goddess definitely will help even if only one chapter or one bodhisattva's name is mentioned; she will protect those sentient beings who even read and try to understand one verse (four words), and will fulfill their wishes. Those sentient beings who hear only one verse will never go to the lower realms. The Buddha told the earth goddess that even if a person hears only one verse, they will be born in the deva realm. Further, the Buddha told the earth goddess the non-virtuous karma of the person who hears even one verse will be eliminated and they will achieve enlightenment.'

Small stupa.

I made a miniature stupa with many people circumambulating around it. Prayer flags are hanging above their head, coming from the top. It is dedication for welfare of all, to honor all kindness  in this life of precious compassionate ones and  human fellows, many animals, all. Impartiality.

Now I think to build another.

One Chorten (like in Tibet)  made before need finishing touch..

The stupa with humans; no art, very simple. On a flat stone and help of a big bowl I made the form like the stupa of Bodhanath or Rajgir, and clay. I paint it white. Then the golden part of the Buddha and the Buddha eyes, like on the stupa of Bodhanath. Then the steps and the top. Around on the flat stone I made from clay little humans who are circumambulating. They are symbolic for precious living beings not to dwell in dividedness of concepts and so have a meaningful existence united with pristine cognetiviness. They are made of clay and help of very fine stick to make eyes, mouth... Then all are paint in colorful clothes. The Flags are made of fine tissue cut in pieces and attached on a wire. The mantra of Chenrezig is emerged by making it.

May it spread in all directions and for all times blessings.

Prostration.

To make prostration one stands in good balance. Join the hands together, slightly in a shape of a lotus ready to bloom.

The ready to bloom half open lotus is expressing the beauty of generating Bodhichitta.

Then place hands at the level of the forehead and pay homage to the body aspect of the Buddhas. By that we purify all obscurations and negative actions of the body.

Then hands a bit lower till the level of the throat and pay homage to the speech aspect of the Buddhas. Speech defilements and obscurations are purified.

Now the ready to bloom lotus is going to the level of our heart and pay homage to the mind aspect of the Buddhas. Negative emotions are purified.

Blessings of the body, speech and mind are coming from all the Buddhas.

Then when touching the ground with forehead, both hands, both knees we pay homage to the five  Buddha families by which the five poisons are purified in five wisdoms.

By the full prostration which is the prostration of devotion, the body is stretching out flat laying on the ground and arms and legs are extented. By rising up again, we take upon our stream of being the suffering of all beings.

Offering completely for all beings in genuine humility, there is nothing foolish on this. While pride, the fortress of ego is feeding suffering and prevent us of any progress in purification.

The medicine of humility in naked nature, for the benefit of all. I prostrate in deep devotion and compassion. _/\_ _/\_ _/\_

Projecting The Dharma.

http://www.videosurf.com/video/dzongsar-khyentse-rinpoche-projecting-the-dharma-131835499

Rinpoche clears away phantasy in honesty and humour. Very nice.

Jetsun Milarepa.

Mila Sherab Gyaltsen, Milarepa's father, married Nyangtsa Kargyen when he was 21. The couple lived happily and prosperously in the village of Kya Ngatsa (also known as Tsa).

Then some relatives of Mila's grandfather - an uncle named Yungdrup Gyaltsen and an aunt named Khyung Tsha Pedon - moved to the area. By then, Mila's family had been settled there a long time and had an impressive house, considerable land and a thriving business in trade.

According to the custom, Milarepa's family helped their newly-arrived relatives to establish a business, to find land and to build a house, and so things went well for these relatives as well. While Nyangtsha Kargyen was pregnant with Milarepa, her husband went away on a long trading tour, and during his absence the child was born.

A messenger was sent to find the father and inform him that he had a new son, asked him to give a name and to return for a festival. (It is considered auspicious to have a special festival to celebrate the birth of a child.) The father replied: "This is truly wonderful. Within each generation of our family, there is only one son born. I am delighted to hear that this son has been born, and I will call him Töpa Ga." "Töpa" means to hear, and "ga" means happy or joyous, so his name meant "Milarepa, a Joy to Hear" or "Milarepa Good News."

This name actually accords very well with Milarepa's attributes, since later as a great practitioner he sang wonderful songs, and when people heard them their minds were filled with delight. After a while, the father returned home and gave a big celebration in honour of their son.

A few years after Milarepa's birth, a daughter was born into the family and she was called Peta Gonkyi. When Milarepa was seven years old, his father, Sherab Gyaltsen, became very sick. Realizing that he was not going to recover from his illness, he called together all the relatives for a meeting, including Yungdrung Gyaltsen and Khyung Tsha, the uncle and aunt. The father told them: "I am giving you the responsibility of my lands and all my goods, the house and so forth, because I realize that I will not get over this illness.

You must take care of everything until my two children come of age. Please see to it that no harm comes to them, protect them from difficulties, and help them in whatever way you can. He also said that Zessay, a young woman from the village, had been promised Milarepa as his future wife through arrangements made with her parents. When Milarepa was of age, he was to be married to her, and all the property was to be given over to them. A letter was written as a testament, and signed and sealed.

The aunt and uncle agreed to carry out these wishes, and having settled his affairs, Sherab Gyaltsen died. Afterwards, the aunt and uncle took the money and the land, everything entrusted to them, and used it for their own benefit. Milarepa, his sister Peta, and his mother were forced to work as servants for the aunt and uncle. They were given clothing and food that was of lower quality than the other servants, and burdened with a tremendous amount of work. The aunt and uncle made it extremely difficult for them.

The mother, however, had managed to find a little bit of funds, and when Milarepa was fifteen years old, she bought a lot of beer, and invited the people from the village, including the aunt and the uncle. She said to them, "Thopa Ga, Good News, is now 15 years old, and it is time for him to get married to Zessay, his fiance, and to begin his own life. Now please give us back what has been entrusted to you for all these years." The aunt and uncle replied, "We don't have anything to give you.

We have been taking care of you for so long that you have used up all your resources. There is nothing here for you, not even a needle or a thread left to give you." They spoke at length like this, denying that there was anything left. In addition, they beat Milarepa's mother. The parents of Milarepa's fiance, Zessay, were kind to him, giving him new boots and clothing. They comforted him, saying, "Wealth is nothing permanent, but something that is made by people through their work.

In the beginning your ancestors had no money, but they made it through working. For lack of money, don't be disappointed or discouraged. You must study and develop capabilities, and while you are doing this, whatever you need we will provide for you." In this way, they inspired and comforted him.

Milarepa's teacher from the village, as was often the case, was also the local priest, and he went around to the different houses performing religious ceremonies and so forth. Milarepa accompanied him as an attendant, and on these rounds, they were often given food and drink. One day when Milarepa was returning home earlier than his teacher, his mother was on the roof of the house and saw him coming.

Milarepa was a little bit tipsy and singing a song. When his mother saw this, she became outraged and yelling at him in a loud voice, came tearing down the steps of the roof with a stick in her hand. This stick was one used to push a stone mill to grind barley for tsampa, so it was quite a powerful one. She came after him with this stick, crying: "Mila, you are a child with no father, and you are going around with your belly full of food and singing away drunk.

Your sister and I are here in great suffering. What are you doing? Your mind has become totally deluded. Your aunt and uncle have taken all of our cattle and our money, and here you are just wandering around drunk. We had great hopes that you would study and at least learn how to earn some money and develop good qualities, yet here you are wandering around in the gutter."

Milarepa then wept and said: "You are right. I have been behaving terribly, and whatever you say I will be glad to do. I had a little bit to drink at the house of a patron, but the song that I sang arose out of sadness. In the future I won't drink. Please be patient with me." Milarepa and his mother stood there crying, and his sister Peta joined them.

While Milarepa was studying, Zessay provided him with what he needed, but the mother now said: "I will take a job in another house, and I will work to get money for your clothes, your boots, and food. I will provide you with what you need.

In our family there is a lineage of men who have been powerful in the use of mantra, and so I want you to go to a capable and skilled lama from whom you will learn how to perform various kinds of magic. Do this until you can create various signs that everyone can see. It must be obvious that you have these powers.

If you can't do this I will jump off the roof of the house and kill myself. If you can do it, I will offer wonderful prayers for you. Milarepa's mother sent him on his way, and he arrived in Utsang, the central part of Tibet, where he met Yungton Trogyel of Kyorpo.

From him Milarepa learned black magic and also how to send hailstorms. Back in his village of Tsa, the aunt and uncle's son had come of age, and in their house they were giving a large party for him to which many relatives had been invited.

Through his black magic, Milarepa was able to make the house collapse and thirty-five people were killed. Through his other magical powers, he was able to send hail on the village and that destroyed the harvest. His mother was filled with happiness. She took all the red cloths she had, tied them to the end of a stick, and, waving it like a victory banner at the top of the house, she communicated in a loud voice to the whole village the following message: "The son that was born to Sherab Gyaltsen and myself has come of age and has been helpful to us.

He has given an answer to our enemies and conquered them. My mind is finally satisfied. I am happy. Now if there are others in this village who wish to harm us, please come forth." With such proclamations, she went around the village.

For the following three parts of the story:  http://www.samye.org/mila.htm

Each moment is precious.

Each moment is precious.
When we should know we are going to die after some hours, we should not decide to repare the holes in our socks. We should not lose time but love to fill this time in the best way; if possible without fear.

Like such moment each moment should have the great importance, the great wish to see our true nature and to abide in it. Peaceful abiding whether on our work, on PC or in a cave. Simplify life.

People say I have no time till time have them.
In our interaction, the most important is to wish others genuine happiness; to wish peace to all living and sentient beings. To never pollute our area with mockery, harsh speech, domination and so on. This is the way to not pollute the "self".

The deep wish may nobody suffer is not based on a warm heart only but based on deep insight. Cultivate warm heart, let it grow and use intelligence in the purest way.
To use each moment in such awareness for our daily mandala, are precious moments in precious life and fear for death will lose power.

What is Chod?

Healing Chod Puja

Cutting through the ego
Chö or Healing Chod Puja is a unique spiritual practice and a path to complete enlightenment, by cutting through attachment to the body to offer compassionate sacrifice, so that in wondrous application of wisdom and compassion all things unite.
Chod is a powerful Buddhist tantric practice. In Tibetan Buddhist Tantra it is taught to beginners for accumulation of merits; it is also practiced by ardent devotees for realization of Dharmakaya. Dharmakaya is the pinnacle of Buddhist realization. This puja is extremely effective method for healing others in body, mind and spirit.
The chief way it does this is by clearing the karmic obstacles and blockages arising from our negative interaction with others in countless past lives. Harming others through physical, verbal or emotional aggression results in a karmic seed, which ultimately ripens in various sufferings of body and mind. Chö or Healing Chod Puja is a unique spiritual practice and a path to complete enlightenment, by cutting through attachment to the body to offer compassionate sacrifice, so that in wondrous application of wisdom and compassion all things unite.

The bird must come home.

Shechen Rabjam says: "We can continue endlessly and fruitlessly with intellectual investigations like a small bird that flies off a ship in the middle of the sea in an attempt to find the sky's limit. The sky is so vast that the bird will tire and have no choice but to return to the ship failing to accomplish its goal. Similarly we will never find an end to mental fabrications."
 
"The point is not to hang out around a teaching but to make commitment, to achieve a true transformation.The Dharma is not merely entertainment but for self-transformation to dwell in genuine happiness and comfort"

Shri Singhas Doha.

HUNG.

However it is conceived, it cannot be cultivated.

However it is expressed, it cannot be indulged in.

Within the expanse of great wisdom,

Luminosity without cause or conditions,

To rest undistracted in evenness

of non-dual original wakefulness, free of concepts.

I understand that there is no realization other than this.

It is the most sublime yoga.

Atisha's Lamp for the Path to Enlightenment.

http://www.lamrim.com/atishalamp/LampForThePath.PDF

Resting your mind.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iO4NIYQtJXQ&feature=related

In the naturally state there is no transition or change. The pure simplicity of the cristal is unchanging. This peace for  all sentient beings!

Daily Prayers, Guru Rinpoche

1st - Mipham Rinpoche's Verses to the 8 Noble, Auspicious Ones (Generally recited 1x at open of session):

2cd - Vajra 7 Line Prayer to Guru Padmasambhava (Recite 3x, visualizing Guru Rinpoche and all the enlightened ones and their retinues in the space in front; if visualization is difficult, then confidently feel their presence in the space in front):
HUNG
OR GYEN YUL GYI NUB JANG TSAM
In the north-west of the land of Orgyen,
PE MA GE SAR DONG PO LA
In the heart of a lotus flower,
YA MTSEN CHOG GI NGÖ DRUP NYÉ
Endowed with the most marvelous attainments,
PE MA JUNG NÉ ZHÉ SU DRAG
You are renowned as the Lotus-born,
KHOR DU KHAN DRO MANG PÖ KOR
Surrounded by many hosts of dakinis.
KHYÉ KYI JÉ SU DAG DRUB KYI
Following in your footsteps I practice.
CHIN GYI LAB CHIR SHEG SU SOL
I pray to you: come to this place and bestow blessings.
GURU PEMA SIDDHI HUNG

(optional: follow the above prayer with a mala of the Vajra Guru mantra, then proceed)
3rd - General short lineage prayers and prayers to root guru (you can just think of Guru Rinpoche until you have a root guru)

(Recite 1x each, continuing to visualize/feel the refuge field in the space in front):
KÜN ZANG DOR SEM GA RAB SHI RI SINGH
Samantabhadra, Vajrasattva, Garab Dorje, Shri Singha,
PE MA KA RA JE BANG NYI SHU NGA
Pemakara, the 25, king and subjects,
SO ZUR NUB NYAG TER TON JA TSA SOG
So, Zur, Nub, Nyag, and the 100 tertons and others,
KA TER LA MA NAM LA SOL WA DEB
The lamas of kama and terma lineages, to you I pray!
OG MIN CHÖ KYI YING KYI PO DRANG NA
In the palace of the Ogmin Dharmadhatu,
DÜ SUM SANG GYE KUN GYI NGO WO NYID
The essence of all the buddhas of the three times,
RANG SEM CHÖ KU NGON SUM TON DZE PA
The one who shows clearly the dharmakaya of my own mind,
TSA WE LA ME ZHAB LA SOL WA DEB
We pray at the feet of the root guru.
PAL DEN TSA WE LA MA RIN PO CHE
Glorious root lama, precious one,
DA GI CHI WOR PE ME DEN ZHUG LA
Dwelling on the lotus seat on the crown of my head,
KA DRIN CHEN PÖ GON NE JE ZUNG TE
Hold me with your great kindness.
KU SUNG TUG KYI NGÖ DRUP TSAL DU SOL
Bestow the accomplishments of body, speech, and mind.
*One might then follow with some version of the Calling the Lama from Afar, then some version of the 4 thoughts that turn the mind to Dharma, then some liturgy for refuge and bodhicitta, then whatever meditation practice one regularly does... May this be of benefit!

http://www.lotsawahouse.org/8_auspicious_ones.html

-Borrowed from the blog, no mud, no lotus

The Thief Who Became a Disciple

The Thief Who Became a Disciple

One evening as Shichiri Kojun was reciting sutras a thief with a sharp sword entered, demanding wither his money or his life.

Shichiri told him: “Do not disturb me. You can find the money in that drawer.” Then he resumed his recitation.

A little while afterwards he stopped and called: “Don’t take it all. I need some to pay taxes with tomorrow.”

The intruder gathered up most of the money and started to leave. “Thank a person when you receive a gift,” Shichiri added. The man thanked him and made off.

A few days afterwards the fellow was caught and confessed, among others, the offense against Shichiri. When Shichiri was called as a witness he said: “This man is no thief, at least as far as I am concerned. I gave him the money and he thanked me for it.”

After he had finished his prison term, the man went to Shichiri and became his disciple.

The Sun Behind the Clouds

This looks like a must-see:  The Sun Behind the Clouds

It will be released in October, 2010.



“The documentary does a superlative job of examining the half-century dispute over Chinese rule of mountainous Tibet.”
VA Musetto, New York Post

“A potent update on Tibetans‘ 50-year struggle for justice and recognition…essential viewing for anyone who cares about the fate of the mountain region and the legacy of the Dalai Lama.”
Sheri Linden, The Hollywood Reporter

“…a welcome departure from many previous films about the decades-long friction between Tibet and China…an exception in what is not an angry film but a notably calm, well-considered and balanced one.”
Robert Koehler, Variety

Buddha Nature.

LAMA SURYA DAS. 

 

 "The innate Buddha-nature or Buddha-ness within each and every single sentient being is genderless, unborn, and undying-more akin to clear light than to our personalities - and timeless, untarnished, and incorruptible.

All beings are endowed with this inner lamp of pure spirit, along with the potential for its divine unfolding. The equanimity of us all is the natural implication of this recognition of universally innate Buddha-nature or Buddhaness, the primordially pure and untrammeled inner light. Thus, one of the principle tenets of Buddhism has always been nonviolence, the protection and cherishing of all forms of life, and the interwoven interdependence of all things, including all creatures great and small."

When I have the opportunity to read Lama Surya Das his words it appears like a naturally fresh waterfall of wisdom brought by humor. Really really great offering for all of us.

 

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/lama-surya-das/who-is-buddha-really_b_532404.html

Dedication.

Gyalse Ngulchu Thogme his golden advice:

"Give up all attachment and belief in things as truly existing,

and benefit others with your actions, words, and thoughts,

Is truly excellent practice."

His advice and kindness is reflecting in others who appear like Buddhas. Behind this advice is the radiance in happiness (no suffering) for all. As "my" happiness is a joke which can be painful.

The meaning about dedication,  powerfully break the walls of my poor limited knowing.

"Through dedication of  meritious actions,  may all beings become like Chenrezig, who is beyond extremes of  samsara and nirvana".

Homage to Gyalse Ngulchu Thogme.

A Long-Life Prayer for His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso

A Long-Life Prayer for His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso

“The Showers of True Bliss”.

Composed by Erick Sherab Zangpo

Found at his blog, Echos Bouncing Off Echos (Empty Elephant)


OM AMARANI JIVANTAYE SVAHA!

For the hosts of beings caught in this

prison of projections and hallucinations,

you gently show the path of clearing

away the imprints resulting from dualistic

fixation. Avalokiteshvara, you pour the

nectar of cherishing others on the

seeds of our innate love and compassion.

Lord of Love, the 14th Dalai Lama, may you abide forever,

raining down the showers of true bliss.

OM MANI PADME HUM

Declaring peace and waging non-violence

in a world beset by the evil forces of

fundamentalist ideology and greed, you have made the

actual transmission of awakened mind

blow across the eight directions of the world.

Your example and influence brings tears to

the eyes of those with faith,

and to recall your face of unimaginable

benevolence makes fears scatter like the parting clouds.

Lord of Compassion, the 14th Dalai Lama, may you abide for kalpas upon kalpas,

raining down the showers of true bliss.

OM MANI PADME HUM

Wish-fulfilling Jewel, when the sprouts of

our bodhichitta shoot forth, we must look to you

in gratitude. When the suffering of cyclic

existence is weakened, we must acknowledge

the force of your enlightened intent. When

we at last begin to see the inseparable

nature of dependent arising and emptiness,

we must know that this was after all your

real wish. When the essence nakedly dawns as clear

light, we shall prostrate to you with

bodies as numerous as dust motes.

Lord of Joy, the 14th Dalai Lama, may you abide for aeons,

raining down the showers of true bliss.

OM MANI PADME HUM

Now a dark age has fallen upon the

people of the world. The armies of ignorance

have turned the world into a fortress of confusion.

The armies of attachment have turned the world

into a citadel of avarice. The armies of anger

have turned the world in a maelstrom of hatred.

The armies of jealousy have turned the world into

a machine of competition. The armies of pride

have turned the world into a swamp of conceit.

For the people of this great Earth, and especially for your

subjects of Tibet, summon forth the unexcelled power of

your extraordinary dynamic skill. We pray:

overwhelm the cold forces of negative emotions

with the warm light of your expedient means.

The time has come! Help all beings

to recognize eachother as their mothers and friends.

Lord of Equanimity, the 14th Dalai Lama, may you abide for as long as space endures,

raining down the showers of true bliss!

OM MANI PADME HUM

This prayer of longing for the longevity of the Victorious Precious One, His Holiness Tenzin Gyatso, the Fourteenth Dalai Lama, was written on the occasion of His Holiness’ 73rd birthday, a time of much celebration — an auspicious day, at an auspicious place, near the Great Stupa of Jalungkhashor, where all wishes can come true. It was written amongst the playing of Tibetan horns, drums, and other instruments, announcing the presence of victory. It was completed in Darjeeling, where the rain truly showers down (but its bliss is in the eye of the beholder!). May the Dalai Lama live long! May auspiciousness pervade the realms of all beings in all times, and may the nectar of deathlessness wash away the defilements of self-grasping! Sarva Mangalam!

Destiny.

This body, a collection of bones and flesh has no other destiny than desintegration. To use it without attachment, it is a great tool for practice Dharma and no any opportunity should be waste for purification, practicing for the welfare of others. As what other practice there can be to nondual?

How to see the primordial simplicity when one practices for own being? To not recognize the unchanging nature of all along equanimity, rather to see in duality changing things to judge when one is a knowing solidity...then what is there other than painful burning of a fleshi ego bumper? 

To be humble and the less among all opens the door of the destiny where no change is. A prayer on my lips: May all precious sentient beings see the unchanging nature and be free without traces. _/\_

The Challenges of Samsara and the Buddhist Path

This is a response to a post I wrote at a discussion forum called Dharma Wheel.  Here is the particular post:  Safe Escape: User Friendly Dharma

Huseng wrote:  Is there a quick solution to this horrific situation we're in? Some would like to believe there is and it might give them a lot of comfort in cherishing such thoughts, but the conquest of samsara might prove far more difficult than what one initially expects or is told.

My response was as follows.  I'm sharing it because it reveals a lot of my general opinions about samsara, the bodhisattva path, and dharma practice.

So much of what you write jives with the teachings I've encountered in Vajrayana. And I understand entirely your comments on the seriousness of our situation. I think too many people may underestimate it or let it slip to lower levels of consciousness as we're absorbed in the grueling challenges of daily life in samsara.

That said, there is a solution. I make no bones about the fact that I don't believe it's a quick solution. I believe that we're just ordinary and the stages of the path are dauntingly challenging to accomplish.

But on the upside, we do have this precious human birth, at least for this moment. So as if our very hair was on fire we can work and work and work to plant seeds or move forward. And hopefully when this body breaks up and we we continue the cycle of birth, we'll be fortunate enough to carry on some traces of seeds we've planted in this life and others.

The solution will vary according to the person and his/her predispositions (I've never been so fond of the word "capacity.") But there most certainly is a solution and we live in such a fortunate age of the Buddha Shakyamuni. Many of us are fortunate enough to live in a place with access to information and dharma, and the means to put the teachings into action. In a way many of us are very privileged. Even those of us who really struggle just to make it in life every day.

So I have hope. I think it's excellent to be realistic, and to acknowledge that the task at hand is enormous, to say the least. And that we are just ordinary. But there is a a way, and it's at our finger tips.

Thank you for your kind reminders; for we are in a serious situation. At the same time that we acknowledge this disenchantment with samsara and the dangers of birthing in other realms, we can practice happiness and direct our minds to places of bodhicitta and joy.

Thanks for listening to my two cents. Or one 

Kind wishes,
Laura

A Reminder, The Four Immeasurables

May all sentient beings have happiness and its causes,
May all sentient beings be free of suffering and its causes,
May all sentient beings never be separated from bliss without suffering,
May all sentient beings be in equanimity, free of bias, attachment and anger.

_/\_

The Buddha taught the following to his son Rahula (from "Old path white clouds" by Thich Nhat Hahn):

"Rahula, practice loving kindness to overcome anger. Loving kindness has the capacity to bring happiness to others without demanding anything in return.
Practice compassion to overcome cruelty. Compassion has the capacity to remove the suffering of others without expecting anything in return.
Practice sympathetic joy to overcome hatred. Sympathetic joy arises when one rejoices over the happiness of others and wishes others well-being and success.
Practice non-attachment to overcome prejudice. Non-attachment is the way of looking at all things openly and equally. This is because that is. Myself and others are not separate. Do not reject one thing only to chase after another.
I call these the four immeasurables. Practice them and you will become a refreshing source of vitality and happiness for others."

A Word from Ajhan Chah

This word from Ajhan Chah touched me.  So I thought I'd share it here.

"If you haven't wept deeply, you haven't begun to meditate."

-Ajhan Chah

Happy day.

In the morning on awaking we should from the core of our heart make this pledge: "Through this whole day today, my mind will never forget Bodhichitta. My stream of being will bath in it".

During eating, dressing, meditating, working, talking, walking, I will practice constantely, remain aware constantely. Ready in case it slips away of mind, I will remind myself and will not allow me to wander in painful states like anger, desire, ignorance. Not forget the dreamlike quality of the daily mandala is a help for own afflictions, while help to other beings is our activity.

When it goes wrong, I should carefully reflect about, even I entered the Buddhadharma and not being able to put it into practice, and so still being incapable to remain mindful. This reflection can help to see how delusion is blinding one's natural dwelling through the day. With fresh courage and enough effort, one lets grow the seed of Bodhichitta.

When at the end of the day, own being never left an altruistic attitude, then offer it for the welfare of all, not just in thought, but in speech and action as well, specially for beings in desperate dwelling; those who are without love, without good health, those who harm others in helpless blindness of poisoned emotions...

Then there is the joy which is emerging and one should say: "Tomorrow I do better." By that never be satisfied or have a feeling: "Great! I am so great, I did it so good"!

May Bodhichitta grow in each sentient being and their own pain will in their given warm altruistic attitude dissolve. So we can be interconnected.

muni, inspired by Kyabje Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche.

Whaling

The Hunting of Whales

Whaling is the hunting of whales. It was responsible for the death of over two million whales in the 20th century and still continues today.



What is a whale?

A whale is a marine mammal. It is a warm-blooded, air-breathing animal that gives birth to live young and is part of the cetacean family. Cetacean is the collective term for whales, dolphins and porpoises; there are over 80 species in the world.

Whales are separated into two categories (called suborders):

Baleen whales (Latin name: Mysticeti) Baleen whales are filter-feeders, using ‘baleen plates’ as a sieve to filter food from the water. This suborder includes the humpback whale and blue whale. The blue whale is the largest animal to have ever lived.

Toothed whales (Latin name: Odontoceti) Toothed whales have teeth. Instead of filtering their food, they hunt fish, squid and sometimes other marine mammals. This suborder includes all porpoises and dolphins as well as killer whales and sperm whales.

Social animals

Whales show a wide range of different behaviours, social organisations and communication methods which vary greatly between species. Many whales, particularly juveniles, are inquisitive and playful and can frequently be observed interacting with boats and divers as well

Some species, particularly toothed whales, form groups where there are close bonds between individuals and even cooperative hunting. Whales may stay in these groups for many years or even their whole lifetime.

Baleen whales tend to lead a more solitary existence, although they gather in groups for feeding and breeding. Although they appear solitary, baleen whales use sound to communicate with one another over great distances. The songs of humpback whales are thought to form an important part of their social systems and communities.

Depending on species, calves can remain with their mothers for up to 18 months. Females are protective of their young, actively steering them away from threats and defending them against predators.

Toothed whale

Any of several usually large whales of the suborder Mysticeti, such as the right whale and rorquals, having a symmetrical skull, two blowholes, and whalebone plates instead of teeth. Also calledmysticete, whalebone whale.

Also defined as a smallish whale with teeth: a smallish whale that has teeth and feeds on fish and mollusks. Suborder Odontoceti.

Did you know?

Whales can feel pain, fear and distress. Animals that have this ability are called ‘sentient’.

Did you know?

At 16,000km, humpback whales undertake the longest annual migration of any mammal from their cold water feeling grounds to warmer tropical waters to breed and give birth.

Teeth-Why are whales hunted?

Whales have been hunted for their meat and other products, such as oil and blubber, for thousands of years. Blubber (fat) was turned into oil which was used for lighting, mechanical lubrication or in cosmetic products like soap. Today the meat and blubber from all whaling operations is used for human consumption although these days only a few communities of indigenous people actually rely on whale meat to survive.

The current demand for whale meat and other products is a lot less than it used to be. Whale meat is sold commercially in Norway, Japan and Iceland but it is consumed only by small sections of the population. This has resulted in unused stockpiles of frozen, excess meat, while at the same time whales are still being killed and adding to this surplus supply. This is particularly the case in Japan.

The main types of whaling conducted today are commercial whaling, aboriginal subsistence whaling and scientific whaling.

Commercial whaling

• Commercial whaling is the hunting of whales where the products are sold for financial gain.

• Norway and Iceland both hunt whales commercially.

Aboriginal subsistence whaling

• This is the hunting of whales for local consumption, carried out by or on behalf of indigenous people who rely on whaling to meet their nutritional needs.

• The four countries that still carry out aboriginal subsistence whaling of large whales are the USA, Greenland, Russia, and St Vincent and the Grenadines.

• The methods used to kill whales in these hunts are less efficient than those used by commercial whalers. Data reported from these hunts shows that whales often take longer to die and are even less likely to die straight away.

Scientific whaling

• Also known as ‘special permit whaling’, this type of hunt is carried out by Japan. The meat resulting from this ‘scientific research’ is sold commercially.

• Many scientists argue that there is no valid research need for scientific whaling programmes that result in the death of the whale. Many countries have said Japan’s lethal ‘scientific’ programmes are unnecessary and have

asked Japan to stop.

No Demand: Excess supplies of whale meat go unused.

How are whales hunted?

Whaling boats equipped with harpoons look for whales at sea. Most commonly, they will use a harpoon with an explosive grenade at the tip, called a ‘penthrite harpoon’. This is designed to explode inside the whale’s body.

While most countries now have regulations and legislation to protect and control the welfare of farm animals at the time of slaughter, these laws do not extend to include whales. Their welfare during a hunt is not protected by any adequate legal guidelines.

How hunts affect whale welfare

Both the whales and the water are constantly moving, making it difficult for whalers to aim an accurate and lethal harpoon shot. Inaccurate shots, combined with the sheer size and body mass of whales, make it impossible to ensure a swift and humane death.

Instead of killing the whale instantly, the harpoon frequently causes massive shock, blood loss and internal injuries. On average, it takes a harpooned whale between two to three minutes to die, although some whales have been reported as taking over an hour to die.

• Norway’s whalers reported that one in five whales (20%) failed to die instantaneously during 2002.

• Japan reported that almost 60% of whales their ships hunted failed to die as soon as they were shot in 2002/3.

Did you know?

Killing Machine: a whaling harpoon at The Whale Museum in Ulsan, Korea

Did you know?

Norway has killed over 8,100 whales since the whaling ban began, including 534 minke whales in 2008 alone.

In order to dive underwater for extended periods, whales are able to shut down the blood supply to all but their essential organs, including the brain. This may allow them to maintain consciousness following significant blood loss and despite appearing to be dead to humans.

In 2009 up to 2,500 great whales will be slaughtered and their meat sold commercially in shops and restaurants.

This natural ability means many more whales may suffer prolonged, agonizing deaths than reported by whaling countries.

Some whales are struck but not killed during hunts. They may die a slow death from their wounds, or be unable to dive, feed or breed properly as a result of their injuries.

Does anyone manage the world’s whaling?

There is an established international body that is responsible for the conservation and management of the world’s whales.

The International Whaling Commission (IWC) was set up 1946. By 2008, 75 countries – both pro- and anti- whaling – had joined this committee of member governments. Together member nations of the IWC and its scientists review whale populations all over the world, set hunting quotas and oversee whaling activities where they take place. The IWC also co-ordinates and funds research into the threats that whales face.

Visit the IWC website at www.iwcoffice.org for more information on the Commission and see which countries are members.

The powers of the IWC

In 1982 IWC members agreed on temporary ban (a ‘moratorium’) on commercial whaling. This came into force in 1986.

Japan, Iceland, and Norway

The moratorium remains in place today. Pro-whaling countries continue to push for it to be lifted while anti-whaling nations argue it must be

maintained and strengthened.

Three countries have been responsible for the vast majority of whaling since the IWC ban was introduced.

Did you know?

In 2007 the government of Iceland cited lack of demand for whale meat as the reason why the country stopped whaling. Yet in 2008 they allowed up to 40 minke whales to be killed in Icelandic commercial hunts.

In 2008 Japan set out to kill 1,415 great whales for ‘scientific research’. The IWC believes the current lethal ‘scientific’ programmes are unnecessary and has called on Japan to stop this kind of whaling 15 times in the last 20 years.

Painful death: Norwegian whaler “Brandsholmboen” and a harpooned Minke whale kill in Hamningberg.

If there is a ban, why does whaling still take place?

Despite the introduction of the moratorium, over 30,000 great whales have been killed since the ban came into force in 1986.

In addition, tens of thousands of small whales, dolphins, and porpoises are killed annually worldwide in hunting activities not regulated by the IWC.

Japan carries out ‘scientific whaling’. A legal loophole in the IWC ban allows any nation to allocate itself a quota of whales in the name of scientific research. However, the meat is still sold commercially and many countries and non-governmental organisations like WSPA argue that the necessary research could be carried out without killing whales.

Norway and Iceland have officially lodged ‘objections’ to the IWC moratorium and continue their commercial whaling.

In 2006 Japan, Norway and Iceland stopped providing whale welfare data – such as how long it takes whales to die during hunts – to the IWC. Anti-whaling member countries believe this decision severely limits the IWC’s ability to monitor and improve the humaneness of hunts.

All three countries have repeatedly announced their long-term intention to continue whaling. They have also expressed interest in resuming international trade in whale products

What other threats do whales face?

As well as whaling, a number of environmental threats affect whales. These include: pollution, entanglement in fishing nets (called ‘by-catch’), climate change, global over-fishing (which affects the whales’ food supply), collisions with ships, habitat loss and noise pollution (which is thought to affect whales’ diving patterns and navigation and may lead to strandings as well as hearing damage).

Whaling and other threats have led to at least five of the 13 species of great whales being listed as endangered.

Are there any alternatives to whaling?

These days commercial whaling is not necessary for our food supply. Instead, people can benefit from whales by enjoying watching them in the wild.

Every year over 10 million people worldwide go on whale watching trips, a growing industry which annually generates 1.25 billion US dollars, making it far more profitable than whaling. Whale watching occurs in over 90 different countries and provides jobs and increases tourism in many coastal communities. It also provides an opportunity for important scientific research to take place, helping human beings to find out more about how these unique and intelligent creatures behave and live.

Close bonds: Humpback mother and calf

As with any wildlife watching, whale watching must be carefully managed to ensure that it does not put the animals under stress or affect their natural behaviours. For example, whale watching boats should keep the correct distance and speed around whales, and should not chase or approach whales head-on.

How does WSPA work on whaling?

The World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) works to improve and protect whale welfare.

• We use diplomacy and public support to encourage the IWC to carefully consider whale welfare at their annual meetings.

• We support and encourage animal welfare organisations, in both pro- and anti-whaling countries, to campaign against whaling on welfare grounds.

• We produce reports to back up our welfare claims and perspective with good science.

• We founded the Whalewatch network. This is a group of NGOs (non-governmental organisations) united by an opposition to whaling on welfare grounds. By sharing information and working together we are better able to promote the importance of whale welfare across the globe.

Our work is based on WSPA’s whaling policy:

• WSPA believes that there is no humane way to kill whales at sea.

The exploding harpoon is an inhumane weapon and there are numerous uncontrollable factors (such as visibility, sea state and animal behaviour) which make it impossible to ensure an instant, humane kill.

• Whales face a multitude of threats to their survival in the 21st century. WSPA is asking the IWC to focus its attention on the long-term protection and recovery of whale populations, rather than concentrating on whaling.

• WSPA also believes that whale watching is the only humane and sustainable use of whales in the 21st century. We are calling for the IWC to encourage and manage the continued growth of the whale watching industry, giving people the opportunity to see and appreciate these fascinating animals and helping us to understand more about their lives.

More information

To find out more about whaling, whales, and how you can get involved, visit:

www.wspa-international.org/wspaswork/whaling www.whalewatch.org

You can watch WSPA’s five minute underwater film, The Hidden Life of Whales, at www.wspa-international.org/whaling

For further information about the International Whaling Commission (IWC), including which countries are members visit the IWC website: www.iwcoffice.org

The invocation of the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas

This is so precious, I'm posting it in its entirety here with links at the bottom.  It's from a forum post at http://www.dharmawheel.net

-Specific post:  http://www.dharmawheel.net/viewtopic.php?f=49&t=1316

Credit to poster Phantom59

The invocation of the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas

Oh Buddhas and Bodhisattvas abiding in the ten directions, endowed with great compassion, endowed with pre-knowledge, endowed with impeccable vision, endowed with love, affording protection to sentient beings, consend through the power of your great compassion to accept these offerings actually laid out and mentally created.

Oh you compassionate ones possessing the wisdom of understanding, the love of compassion, the power of acting, and of protecting in incomprehensible measure, one is passing through this world and leaving it behind. No friends does (s)he have, (s)he is without defenders, without protectors and kinsmen. The light of this world has set. (s)he goes from place to place, (s)he enters darkness, (s)he falls down a steep precipice, (s)he enters a jungle of solitude, (s)he is pursued by karmic forces, (s)he goes into a vast silence, (s)he is borne away on the great ocean, (s)he is wafted on the wind of karma, (s)he goes where there is no certainty, (s)he is caught in the great conflict, (s)he is obsessed by the great affecting spirit, (s)he is awed and terrified by the messengers of death. Existing karma has put hir into repeated existence and no strength does (s)he have although the time has come to go alone.

Oh you compassionate ones, defend who is defenseless, protect who is unprotected, be his kinsman, protect hir from the suffering in the depression of the Bardo, turn hir from the storm wind of karma, turn hir from the great awe and terror of the Lords of Death, liberate hir from the long narrow way of the Bardo.

Oh compassionate ones who do not allow the force of your compassion to be weakened in assistance, who do not allow one to be in the miserable states of existence, forget not your ancient vows, you who do not allow sentient being to be influenced by habit, and protect from the misery of the Bardo.

Oh conquerors and your offspring abiding in the ten directions, Oh ocean congregation of the peaceful and the wrathful, Oh gurus and devas, you dakinis and faithful ones, Hearken now out of your great love and compassion, Obeisance to you, oh assemblage of gurus and dakinis, Out of your great love, lead us along the path.

When through illusion, I and others are wandering in samsara, Along the bright light path of undistracted listening, reflecting and meditating, May the gurus of the inspired line lead us, May the bands of mothers be our protectors, May we be liberated from the fearful narrow passage of the Bardo, May we be placed in the state of perfect enlightenment.

When through violent anger one is wandering in samsara, Along the bright light path of the wisdom of reflection, May the Bhagavan, Vajra-Sattva lead us, May the Mother Mamaki be our protector, May we be liberated from the fearful narrow passage of the Bardo, May we be placed in the state of perfect enlightenment.

When through intense pride one is wandering in samsara, Along the bright light path of the wisdom of equality, May the Bhagavan Ratna-Sambhava lead us, May the Mother of She-who-is-the-Buddha-Eye be our protector, May we be liberated from the fearful narrow passage of the Bardo, May we be placed in the state of perfect enlightenment.

When, through great attachment one is wandering in samsara, Along the bright light path of discriminating wisdom, May the Bhagavan Amitabha lead us May the Mother, She-of-white-raiment be our protector May we be liberated from the fearful narrow passage of the Bardo, May we be placed in the state of perfect enlightenment.

When, through intense jealousy one is wandering in samsara, Along the bright light path of perfected action, May the Bhagavan Amogha Siddhi lead us May the Mother, the faithful Tara be our protector May we be liberated from the fearful narrow passage of the Bardo, May we be placed in the state of perfect enlightenment.

When, through intense stupidity one is wandering in samsara, Along the bright light path of the wisdom of reality, May the Bhagavan Vairochana lead us May the Mother of Great Space be our protector May we be liberated from the fearful narrow passage of the Bardo, May we be placed in the state of perfect enlightenment.

* (Note: Vairochana and Amitabha may be interchanged.)

When, through intense illusion one is wandering in samsara, Along the bright light path of abandoning hallucinations of fear, awe, and terror, May the Bands of the Bhagavans of the Wrathful Ones lead us May the Bands of Wrathful Goddesses, Rich in Space, be our protectors, May we be liberated from the fearful narrow passage of the Bardo, May we be placed in the state of perfect enlightenment.

When, through intense conditioning one is wandering in samsara, Along the bright light path of Simultaneously-born Wisdom, May the heroic knowledge- holding deities lead us May the Bands of the Mothers, the Dakinis, be our protectors May we be liberated from the fearful narrow passage of the Bardo, May we be placed in the state of perfect enlightenment.

May the ethereal elements not rise up as enemies; May we come to see the realm of the white Buddha. May the watery elements not rise up as enemies; May we come to see the realm of the Blue Buddha. May the earthy elements not rise up as enemies; May we come to see the realm of the Yellow Buddha. May the fiery elements not rise up as enemies; May we come to see the realm of the Red Buddha. May the airy elements not rise up as enemies; May we come to see the realm of the Green Buddha. May the elements of these rainbow colors not rise up as enemies; May it come that all the realms of the Buddhas will be seen May it come that all the sounds in the Bardo will be known as one's own sounds, May it come that all the radiances will be known as one's own radiances, And may it come that the Tri-Kaya be realized in the Bardo.

Here begins the Root Verses of the Six Bardos:

O now when the Birthplace Bardo is dawning in one's mind Abandoning idleness as there is none in a devotee's life Entering into reality undistractedly listening, reflecting and meditating, Carrying on to the path knowing the true nature of appearances of mind, May the Tri-Kaya be realized: Once that the human form is accomplished, May there be no time as opportunity in which to idle it away.

O now when the dream bardo is dawning in one's mind Abandoning the inordinate corpse-like sleeping of the sleep of stupidity, May the mind undistractedly remain in it's natural state In understanding the actual nature of dreams Practice in the clear light of miraculous transformation Acting not like brutes in slothfulness May the blending of sleep and actual waking experience be of value.

O now when the Dhyana bardo is dawning in one's mind Abandoning the whole mass of distractions and illusions May the mind remain in the mood of timeless undistracted Samadhi May there be accomplishment in visualization and perfection At this time, one-pointedly with all other actions put aside May one not fall under the power of if misleading stupefying passions.

O now when the bardo of the moment of death is dawning in one's mind Abandoning all awe, fear and terror of all phenomena May one recognize that whatever appears as being one's own thought forms May one know them as apparitions of the intermediate state It is said, there comes a time when a turning point is reached. Fear not the forms of the peaceful and wrathful who are one's own thought forms.

O now when the bardo of rebirth is dawning in one's mind With one single wish, join with the results of meritious acts May the door of the womb be closed and the revulsion recollected The time has come when energy and pure love are needed May one cast off jealousy and meditate upon the father-mother

O procrastinating one, who thinks not of the coming of death Devoting oneself to the useless doings of this life, Improvident one is in dissipating ones opportunity Mistaken indeed would ones purpose be now if one returns empty handed Since Dharma is one's need, would one not devote oneself to the Dharma even now?

Thus say the Great Adepts in devotion If the chosen teaching of the guru not be borne in mind Would one not be acting as a traitor to oneself? It is of great importance that these root words be heard.

Here begins "The Path of Good Wishes Which Protects from Fear in the Bardo":

When the cast of chance of one's life is exhausted The relatives of the world avail one not When wandering alone by oneself in the bardo O you conquerors, peaceful and wrathful, exercising the power of your compassion Let it come that the gloom of ignorance is dispelled

When wandering alone, parted from loving friends When the shapes of one's empty thought-forms dawn upon one here May the Buddhas, exercising the power of their divine compassion That there be neither awe nor terror in the bardo

When the bright radiances of the five wisdoms shines upon one now May one, neither awed or terrified recognize them to be of oneself When the apparitions of the Peaceful and the Wrathful forms are dawning upon ones mind Let it be that with the assurance of fearlessness that one recognizes the bardo

When experiencing miseries because of the results of one's actions Let it be that the conquerors, the Peaceful and the Wrathful dispel the miseries When the self-originating sound of reality reverberates like a thousand thunders Let it be that they are transmuted into the sounds of the Mahayana.

When one is unprotected and habitual influences have been followed here Beseech the conquerors, the Peaceful and the Wrathful for their protection When suffering miseries because of habitual propensities Let it be the blissful Samadhi of clear light dawning upon ones mind

When assuming supernormal rebirth in the Sidpa Bardo Let it be that the perverting revelations of Mara do not occur within When ones mind arrives wheresoever one wishes Let it be that one not experience the illusory fright and awe from karma.

When the roarings of savage beasts are uttered Let it be that they are transformed into the Six Syllables (the mantra of the jewel in the lotus) When pursued by snow, rain, wind and darkness Let it be that one sees with the celestial eyes of bright wisdom

Let it be that all sentient beings of the same harmonious order in the bardo Without jealousy obtain re-birth in the Buddhalands When suffering from intense miseries of hunger and thirst Let it be that one not experience the pangs of hunger and thirst, heat and cold.

When beholding one's parents in union Let it be that one see them as the divine pair, The conquerors, the Peaceful and the Wrathful, Father and Mother. With the ability of being born anywhere for the benefit of others May one be endowed with signs and graces

Obtaining for oneself a body, Let it be one that liberates all Without allowing karma to follow Let it be the merits which follow and be multiplied

Wherever one is born, there and then Let it be that one meets the conquerors, the Peaceful and the Wrathful. With the ability to walk and talk at birth, May it come that one accomplishes the non-forgetting intellect And remember all ones past lives.

In all the various lores, great, small and intermediate Let it be that one masters hearing, reflecting and seeing In whatever place one is born let it be auspicious And may all sentient beings be endowed with happiness

O you conquerors, Peaceful and Wrathful, in likeness to your bodies, The number of your followers, duration of your life period, limits of your realms. And in the likeness of ones divine nature Let it be that all others equal you in every way

By the gift-waves if the innumerable Peaceful and Wrathful deities And by the gift-waves of the wholly pure reality And by the gift-waves of the one- pointed devotion of the mystics Let it be that whatever is wished for be fulfilled here and now.

The Colophon:

Through perfectly pure intention In the making of this, through the roots of the merits thereof May the protectorless sentient beings, Mothers, Be placed in the state of the Buddha Let the radiant glory illuminate Jambudvipa (this world) Let this treatise be auspicious And let goodness and virtue be perfected in every way.

credited to the precious guru, PadmaSambhava

The Path of Liberation Through Hearing, Reflecting, and Seeing in the Bardo

Throughout the six realms of samsaric existence this teaching is known as "Liberation Through Hearing and Reflecting". It is not necessary to understand what this teaching means, but rather in simply listening to the words and letting one's own interpretations do the rest. The title means just what it says, particularly the use of the word "through". These teachings are the "Root Verses of the Bardo Thodol", the transition, state of change, life flux, basis of duality, between birth and death; a description of conditioned arising. The deities mentioned are representative of the different aspects of consciousness in one's own mind, and do not represent some external divine being. They form a mandala, a recognizable pattern of archetypal conscious thought forms. Psychologically, they are known to the individual minds of samsaric beings as expressions of egocentricism, namely: (1)ignorance,(2)jealousy, (3)desire, (4)pride, and (5)hatred, as well as the corresponding collective alternatives as (1)bodhisattvic mind,(2)impartiality (justice), (3)altruistic affection, (4)compassion, and (5)all-embracing love. The attributes 2 through 4 constitute the first(1). This teaching is important because of the changes in consciousness, and is not meant to be understood as an intellectual truth or conclusion. It is applicable to uprooting the habitual tendencies of conditioning in one's own mind, but it has no utility otherwise. This teaching is tantric in nature, utilizing duality as a vehicle of skillful means for expounding this dharma and penetrates to the deepest layers of collective unconsciousness. I post it not as an effort of self-aggrandizement, but only to offer it to you without any expectations of reward or condemnation, that all sentient beings realize enlightenment.

Liberation Through Hearing 1 http://reluctant-messenger.com/Tibetan-Book-Dead_Houston1.htm

Liberation Through Hearing 2  http://reluctant-messenger.com/Tibetan-Book-Dead_Houston2.htm Death and the Bardo

Death and the Bardo  http://reluctant-messenger.com/Tibetan- ... -Wentz.htm

Bardo Thodol Prayer by Thrangu Rinpoche  http://www.dharma-media.org/media/mfs.php?mediaID=163