About Chung Riwoche

Chung Riwoche is a large stupa of unusual design established in 1386 in the traditional Tibetan province of Ü-Tsang. It was later re-established and built by Mahasiddha Thangtong Gyalpo in 1426. Chung Riwoche is the seat of the Chakzampa sub-lineage of the Shangpa Kagyu, and is still an active Kumbum with 9 monks as of 2014.

The Art of cultivating stillness

Jan

2024

Culture, Meditation Himalayas Life

In Asian meditation and movement practices, stillness is not just the absence of movement, it is seen as a powerful presence that infuses movement with depth and significance. An integral part of the movement It is truly captivating when Himalayan monks, Noh actor, bugaku dancers or Balinese dancers pause in their performances because the stillness they exhibit is an integral part of the movement itself. This can be observed in Japanese Noh actors and Sufi dervishes .

Amitabha Buddha Buddhist Thangka Painting

The enigmatic blend of rationality and devotion in Buddhism

Nov

2023

Culture Himalayas Life

At first, Buddhism appears to be an enigma. On the one hand, it is highly logical and rational, without any dogmatic beliefs. On the other hand, when we come into contact with its teachings, we find that it includes religious ideals, doctrines beyond our understanding, and a program of training that emphasizes faith and discourages doubt. Empirical approach vs spiritual viewpoint When we attempt to understand our own bond with the Dhamma, we eventually face .

108 Verses Praising Great Compassion By Lama Lobsang Tayang

Aug

2023

Avalokiteśvara, Dharma, Vajrayāna sadiksha

This translation of 108 Verses Praising is of the renowned Mongolian Lama Lobsang Tayang's work. He was a highly esteemed interpreter of the Gelugpa tradition, and his writings cover a wide range of Tibetan literature, Tantra, logic and philosophy. About Lama Lobsang Tayang Geshe Lobsang Tayang was born in 1867 in the Gobi desert, was renowned for his vast knowledge of Buddhism. He was compared to the Indian pandit Ashvagosha, author of the “50 Verses .

Acarya Bhavaviveka converting a nonbeliever to buddhism

Bhāviveka – The founder of the Svātantrika tradition of the Mādhyamaka school

Jan

2023

Dharma Himalayas Life

Bhāviveka, also known as Bhavya or Bhāvaviveka, was a 6th century Madhyamaka Buddhist. In Tibetan Buddhism, Bhāviveka is considered the founder of the Svātantrika tradition of the Mādhyamaka school, which is considered to be an antagonist of the Prāsaṅgika Madhyamaka. The Madhyamaka school The Madhyamaka school, also known as the "Middle Way" school, is a major tradition within Indian Mahayana Buddhism. The Madhyamaka philosophy, as propounded by the Indian master Nāgārjuna in the 2nd century, asserts .

Tibetan Gau boxes & Amulets

Jan

2023

Design, Handicrafts sadiksha

Ga'u or Gawu is a ritual item also known as amulet box. Gau are portable shrines generally made from hand hammered metals. The purpose and function of an amulet box is for general protection and protection when traveling. Amulet boxes are also commonly used to store all manner of sacred materials such as small texts, blessing cords, consecrated medicine, relics, and the like. Types of Tibetan Gau Box Tibetan Gau boxs can be categorized according to their size, .

The 1000-day pilgrimage around Mount Hiei

Jan

2023

Monks Himalayas Life

The Kaihōgyō is a 1000-day pilgrimage around Mount Hiei, which takes seven years to complete on foot. It is a ritual performed by monks, or gyoja, in the Tendai sect. The journey is equivalent to a trip around the globe and is traditionally seen as a way for monks to offer prayers to the Buddhas and for the well-being of others. Only 46 monks have survived the ritual since it began in 1885, and those who are .

The Spiritual Athlete’s Path to Enlightenment

Jan

2023

Monks Himalayas Life

Throughout this world, there are many mysterious and amazing feats that can be found. People are capable of doing most incredible things that we have never deemed possible. Only by truly believing in ourselves can we accomplish what were thought as impossible goals. Marathon Monks of Mount Hiei In Mount Hiei of Japan, there can be found a small group of monks who live in a monastery and can accomplish many remarkable challenges. This mountain had .

The Tibetan Lung-gom-pa runners

Dec

2022

Monks Himalayas Life

Lung-gom-pa is an esoteric skill in Tibetan Buddhism that is believed to enable practitioners to run for extended periods of time without tiring. This technique is similar to those used by Kaihōgyō monks in Japan and practitioners of Shugendō. Like so much about Tibet, Lung-gom-pa running remains something of an enigma. Enlightenment through physical endurance Lung-gom-pa, also known as "tibetan marathon runners," is a form of spiritual training within Tibetan Buddhism. This practice involves intensive spiritual training, .

Dalai Lama speaking on the first day of his teaching on Chandrakirti 2022

The Dalai Lama’s views on the Madhyamaka

Sep

2022

Dharma, Mahāyāna Himalayas Life

This article is about the Dalai Lama's thoughts on the The Madhyamaka also referred as "Middle Way". It is based on the belief that all things are interconnected and interdependent, and that therefore no one thing can be considered in isolation. The Dalai Lama's views on the "Middle Way" This article discusses the Dalai Lama's views on the Middle Way Approach, a philosophy which advocates for a balanced and moderate approach to life. While addressing the congregation at the .

The Tantric Phurba – A protective ritual dagger

Sep

2022

Tantrism, Vajrayāna sadiksha

The phurba is a ritual dagger used in Tantric practices. It is used to protect against negative energies and to promote positive change. The phurba is not to be used for violence or harm, and should only be used for ritual purposes. It is a powerful tool for protection and should be used with care and respect. Origin of Phurba in Tibet The renowned Buddhist master Padmasambhava, who was initiated by the Indian sage Prabhahastin, is said .