The Cremation Ceremony of the Holy Body of Late His Holiness Penor Rinpoche at Namdroling Monastery
On 17th May, 2013, at around 5 p.m. His Eminence Gyangkhang Thubten Thrinley Palzang and his retinue were welcomed, with a grand reception headed by the faculty of the Monastery along with the monks and nuns. Rinpoche was led into the great Temple, where he sat on the fearless lion throne. Then the mandala was offered to Rinpoche, while the Sangha body chanted the prayers of auspiciousness.
On the same day, His Eminence Sungtul Rinpoche of Bhutan, and his retinue arrived here. On 18th May, at 10 a.m, His Holiness Karma Kuchen, the 12th Throne Holder of Palyul lineage arrived at Namdroling Monastery, the second seat of the Palyul Lineage of the Ngagyur Nyingma Tradition. On 20th May, at 3.30 in the morning, Domang Yangthang Rinpoche arrived. On that same day, at 8 p.m, His Holiness Dilgo Kyentse Yangsi Rinpoche was received with a grand reception.
Following the wishes and guidance of great masters of the Nyingma Lineages, the general administration office of Namdroling formally announced the programme of the cremation ceremony of His Holiness Penor Rinpoche’s holy body a year ago. On 20th May, 2013, corresponding to the 10th day of the 4th Tibetan month, the Khenpos, Tulkus, Lopons, and the assemblage of Namdroling and many devotees from far and wide performed the elaborate feast offering according to the rites of Lama Rigzin Duepa. H.E. Gyangkhang Thubten Thrinley Palzang Rinpoche presided over the ceremony.
On 21st and 22nd May, 2013, according to the recommendations from His Holiness Jadral Rinpoche and His Holiness Dodrupchen Rinpoche, the Neten Chagchoe (Venerating Prayer to the sixteen Arhats) and the Seven-chaptered Prayer to Guru Rinpoche were chanted. In the morning of 22nd May, 2013, Khenchen Tsewang Gyatso read out the programmes of ‘Kudung Zhugbul’ (cremation ceremony of the holy body), finalized by the faculty members of Namdroling Monastery. On that day, at 11 a.m, His Holiness Minling Khenchen Rinpoche, Khochim Rinpoche, and Rigo Tulku Rinpoche arrived. At around 3.50 p.m, His Holiness Taglung Tsetul Rinpoche, the sixth Supreme head of Ngagyur Nyingma Lineages, along with his retinue were received with the ceremonial procession by the assemblage of the Namdroling Monastery, joined by many devotees from far and wide. Then, in the Golden Temple, the mandala of body, speech, and mind were offered, while the assemblage of monks and nuns chanted the prayer of Auspiciousness, venerating ritual to the Sixteen Arhats, Oration to Delight the Dharma King and Auspicious Words of Aspirations.
The Actual Events on the Kudung Zhugbul Day
On 23rd May, 2013, the actual day of Kudung Zhugbul, at 5 o’ clock in the morning, the monks who were assigned to conduct the rituals under the four vajra masters were assembled in the respective halls. Those who were assigned to carry out the cremation ritual from the eastern direction, at Crematorium, assembled in the Zangdog Palri Temple, where His Holiness Taglung Tsetul Rinpoche presided over the rituals of “Jangter Thugje Kundrel”, discovered by Rigdzin Goedem. The ritual was attended by the lead chanter from Mindroling Monastery, and more than thirty monks of Namdroling. Similarly, those who were assigned to carry out cremation ritual from the Southern direction at Crematorium, assembled in the Kilaya Temple, and conducted the “Minling Dorsem”, revealed by Terdag Lingpa, under the vajra masters His Holiness Kyentse Yangsi Rinpoche and His Holiness Karma Kuchen Rinpoche with more than thirty monks. Those who were assigned to carry out the cremation ritual from the Western and the Northern directions at Crematorium, assembled in the Tara Temple and the NNI’s congregation hall with thirty monks each, and performed the “Rigzin Palchen Duepa” and “Ngonsong Jongwa” (the ritual for Purifying the Lower Realms) respectively. They were led by vajra masters H.E. Gyangkhang Thubten Thrinley Palzang Rinpoche and H.E. Domang Yangthang Rinpoche. Thus, they conducted their respective rituals until the Tshog-lhag (feast residual), and proceeded to the cremation stupa.
At seven in the morning, led by the special invitee, His Holiness Taglung Tsetul Rinpoche; other eminent lamas; great masters and representatives from Nyingmapa monasteries; two Khenchens from Serje and Sermey with their monks; the monks, nuns and lay practitioners from Drigung Kagyud, Karma Kagyud, Sakya and other lineages of Tibetan Buddhism; the representatives from Bhutan and Nepal governments; the Religion Minister of the Tibetan government in exile, Kalyon Pema Chejor; the vice president of the Tibetan people’s representative, Khenpo Sonam Tenphel; Indo-Tibetan Friendship Association’s ex-member, Gyari Lodroe Gyaltshen; former Religion minister, Tshering Phuntsho; devotees from India, Nepal and Bhutan; disciples of late His Holiness from USA, Taiwan, and other parts of the world; lamas and sponsors of the dharma centres from abroad; and Tibetans from the nearby settlements gathered around the four directions of the Cremation Stupa to pay their humble tribute and seek blessings from the holy body. Nearly 20,000 devotees from far and wide came to witness the cremation ritual.
At around eight in the morning, guided by the faculty members of Namdroling Monastery, the holy body of His Holiness Penor Rinpoche, which was kept in the Zangdog Palri Temple, was carried out to the cremation stupa, with the chanting of this prayer: ‘Wake up, Padmasambhava and retinues of dakinis,’ by the lead chanter, along with incense, Tibetan trumpets, canopy, victory banner and a variety of offering materials; dakas and dakinis, in procession received it with a grand ceremonial reception. Then, His Holiness Karma Kuchen Rinpoche took out the Five Buddhas’ Crown (Rig-nga) from the Kudung, which was adorned with the Sambhogakaya’s ornament, and placed it in the Cremation Stupa. Subsequently, the great masters of Dharma lineages and the great leaders offered ceremonial scarves to the holy body. And then, those who were assigned to perform the cremation ritual conducted the short rituals for the veneration of the Guru (Lama Choepa), and received the ‘Four Initiations’ from the holy body. After that the actual ritual of cremation took place from the four directions.
The offering of ritual substances, recitation of the required numbers of mantras, and supplications were made to the worldly fire deities and the wisdom-fire deities. In the end, a thanksgiving feast was offered to these deities, and thus concluded the cremation ritual. In the afternoon, those conducting the ceremonies assembled in their respective venues, where they concluded their morning rituals.
From 3 p.m, the assemblage of monks, nuns, lay practitioners and devotees chanted the Venerating Prayer to the sixteen Arhats; the prayer to entreat compassionate pledges of Guru Rinpoche; and so on. For next three days and nights, from 23rd May to 25th May, led by one of the vajra masters, more than thirty monks and thirty nuns took turns in performing the extensive offering with the ritual for venerating the Guru (Namchoe Lama Chepa).
On the final day, in the evening, for longevity and for the wide spread of his spiritual activities throughout the world, the family of Namdroling Monastery offered auspicious substances like statues, scriptures and stupa, along with an extensive thanksgiving service.
According to the arrival list kept by the Kudung Zhugbul Committee, there were 920 visitors from West, Taiwan and so forth. Similarly, 300 people came from Bhutan, 200 from Nepal and 130 from India. Led by the Khenpos, Tulkus and Lamas of Palyul Jangchub Dargyeling Monastery, about 30 devotees from Tibet attended the historic event in Namdroling Monastery.
Post-Cremation Events
On 24th May, 2013, presided over by His Eminence Domang Yangthang Rinpoche, the assemblage of Namdroling Monastery chanted the Venerating Prayer to the Sixteen Arhats; the prayer to entreat the compassionate pledges of Guru Rinpoche; the supplication for the swift rebirth of His Holiness and so on. That morning, His Holiness Taglung Tsetul Rinpoche left Namdroling having completed his spiritual activities here.
On 25th May, 2013, led by His Eminence Gyangkhang Tulku Thubzang Rinpoche and His Eminence Domang Yangthang Rinpoche, the assemblage conducted 100,000 accumulations of feast offerings with the ritual of ‘the Essence of the Supreme Jewels,’ discovered by Jatshon Nyingpo. That day, in the morning, His Holiness Kyentse Yangsi Rinpoche and his retinue left Namdroling, with Khenchen Padma Sherab and others accompanying Rinpoche up to the Bangalore International Airport.
On 26th May, 2013, in the morning, the assemblage chanted the Venerating Prayer to the sixteen Arhats; the prayer to entreat compassionate pledges of Guru Rinpoche; and so on. Headed by His Holiness Karma Kuchen Rinpoche and His Eminence Tulku Thubzang Rinpoche, the faculty of Namdroling and the standing committee of different divisions of Namdroling gathered together, chanted the prayer of Auspiciousness, and with sweet incense and dharma trumpets carried the remains of heart, tongue, eyes, skull, bones, ashes, etc to the Golden Temple. Then, from 9.30 in the morning, led by the vajra masters, His Eminence Gyangkhang Tulku Thubzang Rinpoche and His Eminence Domang Yangthang Rinpoche, the assemblage conducted the “Rue-drub” (bone sadhana) according to the rites of Minling Dorsem, while the Hundred Syllable Mantra of Vajrasattva was chanted many times. Later, these holy bones were taken to the Tara Temple and made into Tsha-tsha. On 31st May, 2013, presided over by His Holiness Gyangkhang Tulku Thubzang Rinpoche, the assemblage of Namdroling performed the Tsha-drub according to the rites of Minling Dorsem. Thus, all the post-cremation events ended successfully.
Empowerment by His eminence Gyangkhang Tulku Thubzang Rinpoche
From 27th to 30th May, 2013, in the morning, the assemblage chanted the Venerating Prayer to the Sixteen Arhats; the prayer to entreat compassionate pledges of Guru Rinpoche; the Seven-chaptered Prayer to Guru Rinpoche, and so on.
From 3 p.m, as requested by the faculty members of Namdroling Monastery, His Eminence Gyangkhang Tulku Thubzang Rinpoche bestowed the empowerments of Minling Dorsem, Jampal Dorje Nonpo, Kunzang Den-gyi Thrinley, Dolma Rig-nga, Dolma Yidzhin Khorlo Tsewang, and Phurpa Bum-ngag, upon the His Eminence Domang Yangthang Rinpoche, Khentul Gyangkhang Rinpoche, Mugsang Kuchen Rinpoche, Khenchen Padma Sherab, Khenchen Tsewang Gyatsho and around 5000 monks and nuns. His Eminence also bestowed the oral transmission of Dzogchen Kongshak.
On 29th May, at 3 p.m, His Eminence compassionately bestowed the long life empowerment of Dechen Zhingdrup to the assemblage and public. The Namdroling family offered the mandala of body, speech and mind, for the longevity of His Eminence. The Namdroling family also offered a thanksgiving service to Rinpoche for his spiritual activities.
On 1st June, 2013, His Eminence Gyangkhang Tulku Thubzang Rinpoche and his retinue returned to Tibet. On the way, Rinpoche visited the Tshogyal Shedrup Dargyeling Nunnery, where His Eminence consecrated the newly constructed Retreat Centre and Temple. His Eminence Gyangkhang Tulku Thubzang Rinpoche was accompanied to the Bangalore International Airport by Khentul Gyangkhang Rinpoche, the president of Namdroling; vice president, Khenchen Padma Sherab, Vice president, Khenchen Tshewang Gyatsho and others.
Activities at the Namdroling Dratsang
On 29th January 2013, the eighteenth day of the twelve month of the Tibetan calendar, the monks of Namdroling Monastery conducted a ritual of Karling Zhithro (Karma Lingpa’s Ritual of Peaceful and Wrathful Deities) and made extensive offerings to commemorate the parinirvana anniversary of Omniscient Longchen Rabjam. The Institute monks gave a religious discourse and engaged in debate. From 5th February, 2013, for the duration of five days, the Gutor (religious cake thrown on the 29th day of the twelfth month of the Tibetan calendar to ward off evils and obstacles) ritual was started by performing the rites of Kagyed (Eight Heruka Sadhana), Sengdong (ritual of the lion-faced deity), Rat-phur (kilaya of Ratna Lingpa) and Gurdrag (ritual of wrathful Padmasambhava). The mask dance of the Gutor along with the ritual of throwing tormas (religious cakes) was carried out on 9th February, 2013. Karma Lingpa’s ritual of procuring long life was conducted on the 10th February, 2013, the thirtieth day of the twelve month of the Tibetan calendar.
The Tibetan New Year is an eventful day and festive eve for all Tibetans. The Tibetan New Year is celebrated on the 1st day of the first month of the Tibetan calendar. Likewise, in the early morning of the 11th February, 2013, the assemblage of khenpos, trulkus, lamas, monks and nuns gathered in the Padmasambhava Buddhist Vihara, (the Golden Temple) where prayers of auspiciousness and other sacred prayers were chanted followed by the offering of ceremonial scarf to the indestructible golden throne of His Holiness Penor Rinpoche. Then Khenpos, lamas, lopons, monks, nuns and faithful people made supplications before the holy body of His Holiness Padma Norbu Rinpoche, which was previously preserved in the Nirmanakaya’s mansion of Zangdog Palri Temple.
On 18th February, 2013, the annual week-long Accomplishment Practice on ‘Konchog Chidue’ (the Essence of the Supreme Jewels, terma discovered by Jatshon Nyingpo) has commenced. On the 20th February, 2013, the ritual dance of the eight manifestations of Guru Rinpoche was performed and Guru’s painting was also raised. The final day, the 25th, was full of activity. Five different great dances were performed and the giant 180 ft painting of Buddha Amitayus was hoisted. In the afternoon, the empowerment of the Accomplishment Practice was bestowed to the monks and all other devotees who had gathered.
As initiated by His Holiness Penor Rinpoche, the annual month long retreat began from 18th day of the first month of the Tibetan calendar, the 28th February, 2013. His Eminence Gyangkhang Rinpoche, Khenchen Tsewang Gyatso and Khenchen Padma Sherab bestowed the teachings on Namcho Ngondro, Tsalung and Dzogchen respectively to over three hundred devoted practitioners.
Starting from 30th day of the second month of the Tibetan calendar, the 11th March, 2013, the assemblage of Namdroling Monastery and faithful followers performed the ritual of Karling Zhithro with the extensive offerings of Lama Chodpa, (ritual of worshipping guru) to commemorate the parinirvana anniversary of His Holiness Padma Norbu Rinpoche. The ritual of Minling Dorsem was conducted by the nuns in the ground floor of Zangdog Palri Temple. On the 11th day of the second month of the Tibetan Calendar, the 23rd March, 2013, the assemblage of Namdroling Monastery performed the puja for the longevity and accomplishment of the noble wishes of His Holiness Jadral Rinpoche. On the 30th March, the one month retreat ended successfully with the extensive offerings. This year, more than 211 new monks and nuns joined the family of Namdroling.
Unlike previous years, the Kama Drubche, the Great Accomplishment Ceremony on the Kama Teaching, began on the 8th May, 2013, which coincides with the 29th day of the 3rd Tibetan month, one week early. This was done to enable the Kudung Zhugbul of His Holiness Penor Rinpoche, which took place in the Vaishakha, the fourth month of the Tibetan Calendar. On that day, Tsa Cham (the root dance) was performed. The Thigchog, sand Mandalas, were completed on the 9th May and the actual accomplishment ceremony began on the 11th and ended on the 18th May, the 8th day of the fourth month of the Tibetan calendar. This sanctified ceremony of the long lineage, the Kama teaching, was conducted on seven different Mandalas: the Mandala of the Sutra Practice of the Great Gathering, the Peaceful and Wrathful Magical Net, the Union of Buddhas, the Yangdag Heruka, Rongzom’s Version of Vajrakilaya and the Six-faced Yamantaka. The Mandala of the Sutra of Great Gathering was established in the main temple and the rest in other separate temples. During the ceremony different ritual dances were performed. These were the Garcham, on the 16th, and Rolcham (dance with cymbals) and Throcham (the wrathful dance), on 17th May, 2013.
The last day involved a fire ritual that was especially significant because of the many substances offered by the local people. In the morning, the greatest painting of Lord Buddha was displayed. The empowerment of the Accomplishment practice was granted to all devotees in the afternoon and in the late evening, inspirational prayers such as Butter Lamp Prayer, Dedications and Extensive Prayers of Auspiciousness were chanted with munificent offerings of butter lamps, flowers, spiritual hymns and the music of ritual instruments. Likewise, the Mahakala Sadhana was conducted from the 11th May, by many hundreds of lamas, Tulkus and monks, in the Zangdog Palri Temple. The ritual ended successfully with the three ferocious activities of subduing, scorching and casting out against the enemy of dharma.
On 20th May, the 10th day of the fourth month of the Tibetan calendar, the annual Preliminary Practice session was begun. About a hundred monks and lay people are undertaking the six month practice. The practice is according to the Namcho Cycle (the treasure revealed as sky treasure by Terton Migyur Dorje, and taught to him by Avalokiteshvara himself). Venerable Khen Rinpoche Tshewang Sonam, the president of NNI, bestowed the oral transmissions. The practice is scheduled to end on the 22nd day of the 9th Tibetan month, the Day of Lord Buddha’s Descent from Heaven.
On the 7th day of the fifth Tibetan month, the 15th June, chaired by the vice president of Namdroling Monastery, His Eminence Khenchen Padma Sherab, in the presence of monks and nuns, the annual accounts of Dratsang, Monastic School, Institute and Nunnery were read out by their individual treasurers. Khenchen also bestowed the precious advice for the welfare of this and the next life.
The regular rituals like Rigzin Dupa and Yumka are performed during the auspicious days like 10th and 25th day of every Tibetan month. For the peace and prosperity in the world, and particularly for the spread of Buddha-dharma and the longevity of living Dharma masters, the ritual of Rath-ling Phurpa is performed daily at Namdroling, according to the noble wishes of late His Holiness Penor Rinpoche.
During the auspicious period of the Summer Retreat, around 600 monks of the Dratsang and Monastic School, from class four and above performed the puja of Nyingthig Solkha and Namcho Solkha, from the 24th July to 6th August, 2013. Likewise, for the period of one month, the rituals of Karling Zhithro, Thugchen Sangdue, Rath-ling Tshechog and Rath-ling Phurpa were performed. Finally, the 43-day rituals were ended successfully with the feast offerings on the 5th September. In the February month, the monks and nuns of Namdroling will attend the annual Nyingma Monlam Chenmo, the annual World Peace Ceremony, at Bodhgaya.
News from the Ngagyur Nyingma Institute (NNI)
On 14th March, 2013, the NNI was reopened after the winter vacation. On the 14th and the 15th March, interviews and written tests were conducted for more than 100 applicants from outside and Namling Monastic Jr. High School.
The results of the annual examination were announced on the 19th of March. On that momentous day, His Eminence Gyangkhang Rinpoche and the faculty of Namdroling graced the occasion with their presence and awarded the mark-sheets to the graduates and presents to the class toppers. Spiritual advice was also given by His Eminence Gyangkhang Rinpoche, Khenchen Padma Sherab, Khenchen Namdrol and Khenchen Tsewang Gyatso.
The three-day general puja for the welfare of the family of NNI was successfully completed on the 1st April, 2013. From that day Khenchen Padma Sherab bestowed the full ordination vow to 72 monks, and novice vows to 125 monks and nuns at the Vinaya Temple. The course for the academic year started from the 27th day of the second month of the Tibetan calendar, the 7th April, 2013. The 3rd day of the 3rd Tibetan month is an annual day of appointing staff of NNI. Accordingly, in the morning, the previous workers and staff were discharged and new ones appointed. In the evening, spiritual advice was given by the former faculty members of institute. The next day, the new faculty members of NNI bestowed the spiritual advice to the monks of the institute. Sixteen teachers from NNI are serving in the Dratsang, whereas 51 teachers are currently teaching the monks of the Monastic Junior High School. Likewise, 31 teachers were also appointed from the monks of NNI to teach English, Mathematics, rituals, etc to the young monks of the Monastic Junior High School. This year, more than 84 able teachers and khenpos were sent to the monasteries and Dharma Centres in India, Nepal, Bhutan, Canada, Singapore, Switzerland and other parts of the world.
On 24th May, 2013, the family of Ngagyur Nyingma Institute hosted lunch to guests such as His Holiness Dilgo Kyentse Yangsi, His Eminence Thubten Palzang Rinpoche, Khenchen Padma Sherab, Khenchen Namdrol Tshering, Khenchen Tshewang Gyatsho, and the alumni of this institute, including Dr. Karma Phuntsho. His Eminence Thubten Palzang Rinpoche, Khenchen Padma Sherab, Khenchen Namdrol Tshering and Khenchen Tshewang Gyatsho bestowed spiritual advice concerning the welfare of Ngagyur Nyingma Institute, and emphasised the importance of being co-operative with each other. On the 29th day of the fourth Tibetan month, the 7th June, the parinirvana anniversary of Mipham Rinpoche, the great master of Ngagyur Nyingma Tradition was organized. On that day, the mandala of Manjushrinamasamgiti was established and colossal feast offerings were arranged to mark the festive ceremony with the purest devotion and respect. The historic day was presided over by Khen Rinpoche Tshewang Sonam, the current president of NNI.
During this period, students carried out discourses and debate competitions. Every year, the Universal Smoke Ritual Day is celebrated on the 15th day of the fifth month of the Tibetan calendar. This year, it fell on 23rd June. On that day, at Betapur, the annual Universal Smoke Ritual was performed for peace, happiness, and prosperity in the world.
During the academic sessions, the various rituals are performed once a month as spiritual cause for the swift rebirth of His Holiness Penor Rinpoche and the longevity of His Holiness Jadral Rinpoche and other living masters. Regular monthly debate competitions are held between classes.
The annual 45-day summer retreat began on 23rd July. More than thousand monks carried out the retreat. During this period seminars, expositions, debates, and composition competitions were held for the improvement of studies.
Moreover, Khen Rinpoche Tshewang Sonam gave teachings on Paltrul Rinpoche’s Prajnaparamita commentary in the morning, from 7.30 to 8.30; the Astrology of Elements in the afternoon, from 12 to 1; and Tibetan Grammar in the evening, from 6.30 to 7.30. Likewise, Khen Rinpoche also gave teachings on Refuge, Bodhicitta, an Elucidation on Grounds and Paths, followed by the oral transmission of the Seven Treasuries of Omniscient Longchen Rabjam.
As per the noble aspiration of Khenchen Tshewang Gyatsho and under the direction of Khen Rinpoche Tshewang Sonam, the first ever Translation class was officially started from this year in NNI. Around twenty enthusiastic monks are attending class under the guidance of Khenpo Sonam Tshewang, the ex-editor of Ngagyur Rigzod Editorial Committee. The self-study for final exam will begin from the 23rd November, 2013. More than one thousand monks of NNI will sit for the annual exam which is scheduled to start from 15th December, 2013. The first three exams will end by 23rd December. Then the monks of NNI will attend the teaching on Jangchub Lamrim to be bestowed by His Holiness Dalai lama, at Sera Thegchen Ling. The remaining two exams will be conducted on 11th and 13th January, 2014. Thus final exam of NNI will end by 13th January, 2014.
The Decision to open A Research Centre
As per the wishes of His Holiness Penor Rinpoche, a meeting on the establishment of the Research Centre took place on the 24th and the 25th May. The meeting was attended by associate scholars of NNI such as Professor Dorje Wangchuk and Dr. Karma Phuntsho. The decision to open the research centre, to provide an opportunity to carry out research on Buddhist philosophy in general, and especially on the Ngagyur Nyingma, were taken at the historic meeting. Rules and regulations were also framed for the same.
Activities at the Monastic Junior High School
The students are taught Tibetan Grammar, History of Dharma, Political History of Tibet, Nagarjuna’s letter to his king friend, the Thirty Seven Stanzas of Bodhisattvas’ conduct, English Language, how to play ritual instruments like trumpets, flute and cymbals, hymns and tones, and how to prepare tormas (ritual cakes). As per the wishes of His Holiness Rinpoche, beneficial advice is given almost every month to the students. Different types of rituals for the swift rebirth of His Holiness are held frequently.
On 22nd March, 2013, in the presence of Khenchen Padma Sherab and Khenchen Tshewang Gyatsho, the examination controller declared the Monastic Junior High School’s results. Prizes were given for the toppers; and the certificates distributed to 87 monks who have completed class eight. Likewise, mark sheets for the toppers and those 87 monks were handed to them. On 24th March, the mark sheets for the rest of the students were given. Khenchen also bestowed the advice on importance of good conduct.
In 2013, around 80 newcomers joined the Monastic School. Under the management of 50 teachers, more than 1000 monks study the above mentioned subjects. In order to improve Tibetan language skills, the first Tibetan Language Test for the academic year began from the 9th June and ended on 13th June, 2013. The first six-month teachings concluded on the 9th August and the second six-month teachings began from 11th August, 2013.
On the 19th August, in the presence of the principal and teachers of Monastic School, Khen Rinpoche Tshewang Sonam, the president of Ngagyur Nyingma Institute officially inaugurated the new syllabus of the School. It was distributed freely to the students of class six, seven and eight. Students of the Nunnery School from class six and above also received the free book. On that occasion, the principal of Monastic School spoke on the newly compiled text, and Khen Rinpoche Tshewang Sonam presented prizes to those who were involved in compiling this new book. He also bestowed the advice on the inclusion of the new syllabus. The annual Calligraphy exams were conducted on 19th September. More than 48 teachers are working tirelessly for the welfare of the Monastic School.
Activities at the Nunnery
The Nunnery also has Dratsang, School and Institute. The nuns perform monthly feast offerings according to the Nyingma tradition practised by former supreme lineage holders. This year, around 30 new nuns have enrolled in the Nunnery. From 18th to 25th February, 2013, for the long life of the living masters of dharma, peace and prosperity in the world, and particularly for the swift rebirth of His Holiness Padma Norbu Rinpoche, the ritual of Rat-ling Tshechog, the ritual for procuring long life, was performed successfully.
From 28th February, 2013, many nuns have undertaken the annual month long retreat, where His Eminence Gyangkhang Rinpoche, Khenchen Tsewang Gyatso and Khenchen Padma Sherab bestowed the teachings on Namcho Ngondro, Tsalung and Dzogchen respectively to over three hundred devoted practitioners.
On 15th April, chaired by Khenchen Padma Sherab, Khenchen Tshewang Gyatsho, and former principal, Khenpo Tshering Dorje, the previous workers and staff were discharged and new ones appointed. On 25th April, Khenchen Tshewang Gyatsho and Khen Rinpoche Tshering Dorje bestowed the spiritual advice to the nuns. Starting from 28th April, 2013, the eight-day rituals such as Smoke Offering, Dharmapala petition offerings, and reciting of Kangyur texts were carried out for the welfare of all beings, and especially for the welfare of nuns in the nunnery. During that period, 30 monks from Namdroling Dratshang were invited to perform the exorcist rites.
From 11th to 18th May, with the Dugngal Rangdrol ritual, the self-liberation of suffering, the eight-day sadhana was performed. A feast offering, butter lamp offering, dedication and aspiration marked the successful end of the sadhana.
This year, under the standing committee of Nunnery headed by Khen Rinpoche Tshewang Sonam, the Three Dharmachakras: reading, hearing and contemplation are being upheld as usual.
During the Summer Retreat, more than 100 nuns of Nunnery Dratshang performed the rituals of Solkha, Minling Dorsem, Sengdong, and Tshechog followed by the fasting ritual from 23rd August to 3rd September.
Activities at the Nunnery Institute (NNNI)
Reopening the Institute and announcement of results were carried out in the same day with NNI. Nuns from Tibet, Bhutan, India, Nepal and rest of the world are studying in the Nunnery Institute, under the same rules and regulations that apply to the students at NNI. Under the Board of Directors of NNI, Nine Khenpos and lecturers from NNI, and 21 nun’s lecturers teach and look after the affairs of the Nunnery Institute.
On 6th April, the courses for the new academic session started. This year, eight nuns graduated NNNI. 20 nun’s lecturers are currently teaching in Nepal, India and Bhutan.
On the 29th day of the fourth Tibetan month, the 7th June, 2013, the parinirvana anniversary of Mipham Rinpoche, the great master of the Ngagyur Nyingma Tradition, was organized.
On that day, the mandala of Manjushrinamasamgiti was established and colossal feast offerings were arranged to mark the festive ceremony with the purest devotion and respect. All activities like carrying out the Summer Retreat and competitions for the betterment of studies fall on the same period like NNI. The nuns study the same subjects and their course is of the same duration.
Their exams will begin from 16th December, 2013 and end by the 14th January, 2014.
Activities at the Nunnery Junior High School
On the 10th day of the second month of the Tibetan calendar, the 22nd March, 2013, Khenchen Padma Sherab chaired the announcement of results, where prizes for the toppers and certificates for the nuns who have completed class eight were given. Khenchen also bestowed the advice on importance of good conduct. Nuns from different parts of the world study in the Nunnery School under the guidance of one each senior and junior principal, and around 20 teachers. They study the same subjects as the Monastic Junior High School. There are more than 700 nuns from Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, and far and wide. The monthly exams on Tibetan and English Subjects are being conducted to improve their studies.
Inauguration of the International Nyingma Dictionary Edtitorial Office
Under the noble aspirations of His Holiness Dalai Lama, and the recommendation from his private office, the great Tibetan Dictionary to be used in the computer of the Monlam Bo-yig Research Centre, will be compiled by the International Nyingma Dictionary Editorial Committee. This project will be completed within nine years. The notice on this project was sent to the spiritual heads of all lineage holders of Tibetan Buddhism. The proposal for this project was finalized following approval from His Holiness Taglung Tsetul Rinpoche, the 6th supreme head of Ngagyur Nyingma Tradition.
Last year, during the Ngagyur Nyingma Monlam Chenmo, the organizing committee of Monlam Chenmo arranged a meeting, at Zhechen Monastery, Bodhgaya, India. It was attended by the head of Ngagyur Nyingma Lineages, Khenpos, Tulkus and Lopons, and the following decisions were taken:
- The opening of new editorial office to compile and edit Nyingma Dictionary
- The accommodation and expenditure to be borne by the Nyingma Monlam Chenmo International Foundation
- Khenchen Padma Sherab to look after this project
- Namdroling Monastery to take the chief responsibility
- Other institutes and monasteries of Nyingma Lineages to co-operate and provide the necessary assistance for this project.
Accordingly, the faculty of NNI appointed Lopon Drimed Gyaltsen, Lopon Tsewang Rigzin, Lopon Ogyen Jampa, and Lopon Konchog Dargye, from this institute as editors. Subsequently, the four editors attended a two-day seminar on this project at Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh, India. On 7th April, Khenchen Padma Sherab, in the presence of Khenpos and Lopons, inaugurated the International Ngagyur Nyingma Dictionary Editorial Office, at NNI, Namdroling. Since then, the office has organized two conferences, and the work of compiling and editing Nyingma Dictionary is in progress.
The Ritual for the Genuine Reincarnation of His Holiness Penor Rinpoche
Under the spiritual advice of His Holiness Jadral Rinpoche and the faculty of Namdroling Monastery, the Sangha Community and the Nuns of Theg-chog Namdrol Shedrub Dargyeling have performed the following rituals:
On 8th August, 2013, 100,000 times Venerating ritual to Sthavira; 100,000 times Subjugation prayer (dbang sdud gsol ‘debs); and Lion-faced goddess Mantra (seng gdong bsnyen pa) were chanted.
On 9th August, 2013, more than 40 lakh times supplication to Guru Rinpoche for Clearing the Obstacles of the Path (bar chad lam sel); followed by Seven-chaptered Prayer to Guru Rinpoche (gsol ‘debs le’u bdun ma), and Lion-faced goddess Mantra (seng gdong bsnyen pa) were chanted.
On 10th August, 2013, the prayer for protection (srung ‘khor gnam lcags rdo rje’ thogchen log ‘dren klad ‘gems), prayer to the gods and protectors (gsol kha) and Lion-faced goddess Mantra (seng gdong bsnyen pa) were chanted successfully.
The Visit by H.H. Dalai Lama, The Spiritual Head of Tibetan Buddhism
On 11th June, 2013, corresponding to the 3rd day of the fifth Tibetan month, at 8.30 IST in the morning, His Holiness Dalai Lama, the spiritual head of Tibetan Buddhism was received here, the second seat of Gyalwa Palyul, Thegchog Namdrol Shedrup Dargyeling with a grand reception headed by H.E. Khentul Gyangkhang Rinpoche, Khenchen Namdrol along with the monks and nuns of Namdroling. There were also many devoted people from the nearby Tibetan Settlement.
His Holiness was led into the great Temple, the Ugyen Dongag Shedrup Wodsel Dargyeling, where he sat on the fearless lion throne. Then His Eminence Khentul Gyangkhang Rinpoche offered the mandala to His Holiness while the assemblage chanted the Prayers of Auspiciousness. Sweet rice and tea were served to the guests and assemblage. On that special occasion, His Holiness graced the 22nd issue of the Padmai Rangdang, compiled and edited by the Ngagyur Rigzod Editorial Committee. Subsequently, it was distributed to over 130 guests. His Holiness compassionately bestowed the spiritual advice concerning the significant of vinaya vows. With his advice, His Holiness also remembered and paid tribute to the noble activities of late His Holiness Penor Rinpoche.
Then, His Holiness was invited to the NNI’s Temple, where Rinpoche bestowed the full ordination vow to over seventy monks of Namdroling and others. At the end, His Holiness gave advice on the significant of protecting the vinaya vows. His Holiness and his retinue stayed at Namdroling for a night.
On 12th June, 2013, at around 6 IST in the morning, after granting audience to the faculty and staff, His Holiness Dalai Lama left NNI having completed his spiritual activities at Namdroling Monastery.
The Report of the Training Conducted by Namdroling Based International Nyingma Dictionary Editorial Committee
Realizing the great need of training the Nyingma Dictionary editors based in the various regions, one of the editors planned to travel for this purpose. After consulting the director, Khenchen Padma Sherab through Khenpo Sonam Tsewang, and informing Khen Rinpoche Tshewang Sonam about this matter, Lopon Drimed Gyaltsen conducted the following trainings for the editors based in Bhutan, Nepal and India:
The month-long travel started from the 13-07-2013 and ended on 13-8-2013. On 17th July, 2013, organized by the Ati-Ling Foundation, in Thimphu, Bhutan, nine editors from Ati-Ling, Nyima Lung, Tharpa Ling, Kharchu Monastery, Rangjung Wodsal Choeling, Dorje Ling Monastery and Gangteng Sangag Choeling attended the training. The editor from Tamzhing Monastery could not attend the training.
On 27th July, 2013, organized by the Gonjang Monastery, in Sikkim, India, nine editors from Gonjang Monastery, Sangag Rabten Ling and Choten Gonpa attended the training. The editor from Drejong Nyingma Institute could not attend the training.
On 29th of that same month, organized by the Zhechen Monastery, in Nepal, 21 editors from Zhechen Monastery, Rinchen Palri Monastery, Samye Jedren, Kanying Shedrup Ling, Neydo Chagme Monastery, Palyul Ogyen Dorje Choeling, Tshognyi Gechag Ling, Rigon Tashi Choeling and Zarong Thubten Choeling Monastery were trained. However, editor from Khentsun Monastery could not attend the training.
On 7th August, 2013, in Dharamsala, organized by the Shugseb Nunnery, nine editors from Shugseb Nunnery and Bir Palyul Chokhor Ling Monastery attended the training.
On 9th August, 2013, In Dehradun, organized by the Mindroling Monastery, 52 teachers and students attended the training.
(Source: International Nyingma Dictionary Editors)
By Rigzod Editors
