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Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s Victory Stupa at Lawudo in process.
Anila Ngawang Samten, Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s sister, is constructing an eight level, 12-feet high and 11-feet wide Victory Stupa at Lawudo Gompa, Nepal, for the swift return and success of all Lama Zopa Rinpoche and FPMT’s projects.
We are so pleased to share an update on this stupa from Ven. Nyima Tashi Sherpa, a relative of Lama Zopa Rinpoche; and Ven. Tsultrim, a Swiss nun who has been at Lawudo since Spring 2022.
The Victory Stupa at Lawudo Gompa is being constructed according to the profound visionary instructions of Trulshik Rinpoche and carries significant implications for the global FPMT community, as well as for all sentient beings.
Ani Ngawang Samten has been unwavering in her dedication to preserve Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s legacy and fulfilling his aspirations. With a heart full of wisdom and compassion, Ani Ngawang Samten committed herself to ensuring that Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s rebirth occurs swiftly, while simultaneously upholding the visionary goals of FPMT. This extraordinary dedication extends to her ceaseless puja rituals conducted at both Lawudo and Thubten Choeling Monastery in Solukhumbu, and her recent request for a full reading of the Kangyur at Thubten Choeling Monastery to safeguard the construction of the stupa.
Ani Ngawang Samten and Lama Zopa Rinpoche, Lawudo Retreat Centre, 1976. LYWA collection.
Lama Zopa Rinpoche with Ani Ngawang Samten, Kopan Monastery, 2018. Photo by Ven. Roger Kunsag.
Ani Ngawang Samten has consulted with esteemed lamas within the Lawudo area, including Kerok Lama Ngawang Tsultrim Rinpoche, Charok Tenzing Tinley Rinpoche, and Khapa Pema, all of whom have been trained in the instructions for constructing this profound stupa by Trulshik Rinpoche, in order to ensure their support and receive their expert guidance for this monumental endeavor.
Various holy and precious objects which will reside in Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s Victory Stupa.
The Victory Stupa, as per Trulshik Rinpoche’s instructions, stands as a beacon of spiritual transformation for Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s students and the FPMT family. This magnificent structure, adorned in red, black, and white; symbolizes love, the transcendence of ignorance, and the purity of purpose. It is a sanctuary for the perfect practice, equanimity, wisdom, diversity knowledge, and compassion. This sacred endeavor holds the power to nourish the very essence of these qualities in the hearts of Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s devoted students and FPMT practitioners, fostering a radiant transformation that transcends time and space. It houses essential articles, substances, mantras, and potent tsa tsa elements that serve to shield our universe from conflict, scarcity, and natural calamities rooted in the earth, water, fire, and wind elements.
Amitayus statue from Rinpoche’s cave which Anila offered to Rinpoche during a long life puja in Lawudo, which will reside in Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s Victory Stupa.
In addition, it is Ani-la’s wish that in accordance with the Mahayana tradition of reincarnation, since Lama Yeshe’s mind stream is also so precious to us, that this stupa help dispel ignorance, and protect and preserve the holy mind of Lama Yeshe so that Lama Osel can help to benefit the world.
Holy and precious objects which will reside in Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s Victory Stupa.
Furthermore, illuminating the sanctity of this project is Rinpoche’s dear childhood friend, Ngawang Nyendak, a Thame monk who has steadfastly performed regular practices, such as incense pujas for FPMT at Lawudo over the past eight years. His continuous efforts, including the powerful fortune-hooking puja after Rinpoche’s parinirvana, stand as a testament to the profound dedication that supports this sacred initiative.
Set of 10-inch statues of the Buddhas of the Five Types which will reside in Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s Victory Stupa.
In a most auspicious development, a precious tooth relic of Lama Zopa Rinpoche will be invited to Lawudo Gompa on the merit-multiplying day of Buddha’s return from the deva realm, November 4, 2023, Lhabab Duchen. This auspicious occasion aligns with Ani Ngawang Samten’s decision to consecrate both the renovated stupa of Lawudo Lama Kunsang Yeshe and the stupa of Lama Zopa Rinpoche. The construction of the stupa began on July 11, 2023, and is now nearing completion. The stupa is 12-feet high and 11-feet wide, and has eight levels. It is located at Changtang Gombu, 200 meters below Lawudo Gompa on a well-used track and occupies a position where it dominates the landscape and can be seen from around the valley and is in a natural spot for sitting, prayer, and circumambulation.
Central channel of the Victory Stupa surrounded by tsa tsas.
Some of the holy and precious objects which will reside in Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s Victory Stupa.
Eight levels of the Victory Stupa:
- The first level has different types of weapons to shield our universe from conflict and war.
- The second level has various nutritious grains to save the world from scarcity of food and famine.
- The third level contains the central channel surrounded by 400,000 to 500,000 tsa tsas of different types. Also surrounding the central shaft are various powerful mantras.
- The fourth level is “Rinpoche’s palace.” It contains various precious items that belonged to Lama Zopa Rinpoche, such as a set of complete robes used at Lawudo, a bell, dorje and damaru, a crystal rosary used by Rinpoche during long life retreat at Maratika, etc. There are also texts used by or books with Rinpoche’s teachings. Additionally, there are various offerings in Rinpoche’s palace, including a mandala set and a set of offering bowls containing the eight substances with the conch shell placed first as an auspicious gesture by Anila Ngawang Samten to be able to receive teachings from the Yangsi.
Mantras which will go inside Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s Victory Stupa.
- The fifth level contains a 14-inch Amitayus statue from Rinpoche’s cave which Anila offered to Rinpoche during a long life puja in Lawudo.
- The sixth level contains a set of 10-inch statues of the Buddhas of the Five Types from the main Lawudo Gompa.
- The seventh level contain a holy body, speech and mind offering—a 10-inch statue of Guru Shakyamuni, an 8-inch statue of Guru Rinpoche and an 8-inch Enlightenment Stupa from the cave along with a text belonging to Rinpoche from the old library.
- The top level is the symbolic Victory Banner which crowns the stupa.
Ani Ngawang Samten’s constant presence in Lawudo for over 55 years has granted her profound insights into the challenges faced by individuals journeying from all corners of the world. With deep empathy, she ardently wishes for all those who visit Lawudo–whether for retreat, meditation, pilgrimage, or a simple day’s excursion–to be bestowed with the blessings of these sacred objects. Anila envisions Lawudo as a sanctuary where the weary souls of visitors find solace, healing, and relief from the burdens of discouragement, depression, fear, anger, and frustration inherent in the human experience.
Furthermore, Ani Ngawang Samten fervently prays that the serene grounds of Lawudo become a wellspring of compassion, renunciation, and liberation from delusions. The very essence of Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s tireless efforts and unwavering dedication to building Lawudo Gompa in 1967/68 is embedded within the mud, timber, and stones that comprise this blessed place. Ani Ngawang Samten believes that Lawudo Gompa is an invaluable haven for devotees of Lama Zopa Rinpoche.
May the construction of the Victory Stupa at Lawudo Monastery bring boundless benefits to all sentient beings, while propelling Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s vision for FPMT toward a future unencumbered by obstacles.
Foundation for the Preservation of Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), is a Tibetan Buddhist organization dedicated to the transmission of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition and values worldwide through teaching, meditation and community service.
Lama Zopa Rinpoche in the Kurukulla Center gompa, Boston, US, August 2018. Photo by Ven. Lobsang Sherab.
This month’s e-news brings you important news, updates, and causes for rejoicing including:
- Teachings of Lama Zopa Rinpoche from the 2023 Vajrasattva Retreat
- A teaching by Lama Yeshe
- Essential support offered to 1,500 students in India and Nepal in 2023
- New advice booklet: Circumambulating Holy Objects at Home
- FDCW’s Growing Compassionate Hearts Conference
- Opportunities to offer service
- Changes within the organization
and much more!
Please read this month’s e-news in its entirety.
Have the e-News translated into your native language by using our convenient translation facility located on the right-hand side of the page. French and Spanish speakers will find the FPMT International Office e-News translated each month in the “Bienvenue” and “Bienvenidos” tabs on the FPMT homepage.
Visit our subscribe page to receive the monthly FPMT International Office e-News directly in your email inbox.
Geshe Thubten Sherab with his newly published pilgrimage book.
A pilgrimage book by Geshe Thubten Sherab, Headmaster of Kopan School, has been published by Lumbini Buddhist University and Kopan Monastery, and sponsored by Lama Zopa Rinpoche. This book was inspired by Rinpoche and crafted with his guidance. This recently published edition was volume one of two and covers the sacred sites of the Kathmandu Valley and Lumbini.
It was released on September 11 in the presence of Kopan’s Khenrinpoche with more than 150 people in attendance including Nepal government officials, Culture Minister, members of parliament, representatives from the three yanas, professors from Lumbini University, and representatives of various Nepali communities. The event was held at the Hyatt Hotel, where Rinpoche wanted it, and according to those in attendance it was joyous, featuring a generous feast for all to enjoy.
Invited guests of the book launch holding their copies of Geshe Sherab’s new pilgrimage book.
This volume is almost 200 pages and took three years to complete. Rinpoche’s wish was for it to be published in both Tibetan and Nepali. The Tibetan version had 500 copies printed and 1,000 copies were printed in Nepali. This work will also be translated into English.
With around 45 different sites covered in this volume—all of which Geshe Sherab has visited—the book includes photos of each site, an extensive bibliography, and index including all sources and references.
The book is divided into three sections: the sites related to the Buddha (those from Lumbini and surrounding), those related to the Bodhisattvas (Sutrayana), and the Tantrayana sacred sites. Geshe Sherab explained, “The reason for the divide in this way was very significant. This will allow people to have a clear understanding of these categories and those sites with the history.”
The history of the book project dates back to the early 2000s. Geshe Sherab was in Bodhgaya with his brother’s family and they visited some pilgrimage sites. They knew nothing about many of these places and Geshe Sherab felt he was not able to help them fully understand the history and significance of these places. He looked for a book to help guide their exploration and could not find one, so the thought occurred to him that he could write a book about Buddhist sites in India.
He began to research, visiting libraries and going on pilgrimage when he had the opportunity. He finally published a book in 2004, Gyakar Nangpi Neshed Rabsal Donmye and offered a draft copy to Lama Zopa Rinpoche who was very inspired and carried it with him afterward. He told Geshe Sherab, “Now we need to do a book on Nepali pilgrimage sites, too.” Rinpoche showed a bit of concern that many sites were vanishing and there was no real reference book and the history was hard to find. Due to these concerns, he asked Geshe Sherab to write this book.
Having just been appointed the headmaster of Kopan School, he didn’t have much time. At the end of 2019, Rinpoche offered to sponsor the printing, so initially, Geshe Sherab began to collect all the sites in Nepal and found there were around 52 sacred Buddhist sites in the country. Geshe Sherab shared, “When I showed it to Rinpoche, he was laughing and laughing and finally he said, ‘OK, first finish Kathmandu Valley.’ So, I did Kathmandu Valley along with the Lumbini areas.” He consulted both Nepali and Tibetan sources which makes the book really unique as it’s the first of its kind. He combined both sources, trying to fill gaps in the timelines and to reconstitute the history of each place by taking from both sources. He researched in many different libraries and some archeological departments. As a result, the book not only provides stories like you would find in a travel book, it also contains all the references to the various sources.
From time to time, Geshe Sherab would consult and discuss his work and progress with Lama Zopa Rinpoche. In particular, the book draws from Rinpoche’s advice on what to do in these various places, what practices to engage in, etc.
At the end of 2022, Geshe Sherab passed a draft copy to Rinpoche. Geshe Sherab shared, “One day Rinpoche called me up. When I went to see him, I was a little scared. As I entered his room and he looked very happy, I felt so relieved! Rinpoche said, ‘This is wonderful that the book is finished but what is this cover photo?’ It was an old historical photo of the Swayambunath Stupa. Rinpoche said we need to change it and asked Sherab (Ven. Lobsang Sherab, who serves as a photographer for FPMT) to provide me a nice Swayambunath Stupa photo. Which you’ll see on the cover of the book.”
Rinpoche told Geshe Sherab that it is good to translate into other languages but emphasized the importance of having it published in Nepali, sharing that until now we have been focusing more on the West but now, we also need to focus on local areas in Nepal and promote the Dharma here.
Rinpoche also advised that now we have to organize, “a grand release for the book.” Geshe Sherab explained, “I was thinking maybe we could do it when Rinpoche’s book on non-smoking releases at the Kopan nunnery. But Rinpoche had another plan. He said, ‘We’ll do it at the Hotel Hyatt and we will invite all like-minded scholars and government officials!’ I was just scratching my head.”
During the event on September 11, Geshe Sherab shared the story of the book and a professor from Lumbini University gave a talk about the book in Nepali. Additionally, Dr. Khenpo Jorden, a teacher of IBM Center from the Sakya tradition, who received his PhD from Harvard, gave a talk and praised the research.
The event was very successful and people were very happy, “All because of the blessings and kindness of Rinpoche,” says Geshe Sherab.
Geshe Sherab is projecting about three years to complete the second volume. When the English translation of this first volume is available, we will share this news.
Foundation for the Preservation of Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), is a Tibetan Buddhist organization dedicated to the transmission of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition and values worldwide through teaching, meditation and community service.
His Eminence Jhado Rinpoche at Nalanda Monastery with Sangha. Photo by Capucine Redon.
FPMT centers in Europe were very honored to welcome His Eminence Jhado Rinpoche to Germany, Spain, Italy, France, Switzerland, Austria, and Sweden from March-June 2023. This is cause for major rejoicing!
Séverine Savignan shares the details with us:
From March until June 2023, Rinpoche traveled tirelessly to give teachings, initiations and advice to students in many European centers, touching hearts in all the centers he visited through his extreme kindness and deep wisdom. Rinpoche was traveling with his two attendants, Geshe Tashi-la and Ven. Gonpo-la, who were extremely kind and helpful to staff and volunteers in preparing the teachings and initiations, wherever they needed guidance.
The European tour started in Germany where Rinpoche landed on March 20.
In Munich, at Aryatara Institute, March 22-23, Rinpoche taught on The Four Noble Truths and the Eight Verses of Mind Transformation. The translation was done by Ven. Geshema Kelsang Wangmo from Tibetan to English and Ven. Thubten Drolma to German.
In Spain, Rinpoche was extremely kind in accepting to visit four centers, including smaller ones which would have lesser opportunity to host such a qualified lama. The coordination was handled by Roger Mas Quintana and Irina Hueso who drove Rinpoche around Spain.
In Pamplona, Luz de Nagarjuna Center, March 25-26, Rinpoche taught on the Song of Four Mindfulnesses and gave Chenrezig jenang.
In Nagarjuna Madrid Center on March 28, teachings on Refuge were given, as well as the actual Refuge and Bodhisattva vows. On the March 29, Rinpoche gave the Green Tara initiation.
In Nagarjuna Granada, on March 31-April 1, teachings on the Thousand-Armed Chenrezig jenang were given by Rinpoche.
In Nagarjuna Alicante, on April 4, Rinpoche taught on the Song of Four Mindfulnesses.
On April 5, Palden Lhamo initiation was given to the center representatives. During a visit to Kopan Monastery, Jessica Pastor, the Center Director, had asked Lama Zopa Rinpoche for advice and practices for the center. Lama Zopa Rinpoche then recommended Palden Lamo practice. The initiation was therefore requested to Jhado Rinpoche, and he kindly accepted to grant during his visit.
The translators in Spain were Karen Molina and Katy Delmundo.
The tour then moved on to Italy,
Starting on the Island of Palermo, In Muni Gyana Center, from April 7-11, Rinpoche taught “The Wish-Fulfilling Jewel of the Oral Tradition: Instructions on Identifying the Shared View of Reality” by Khonton Peljor Lhundrup, then gave the Solitary Hero Yamantaka initiation.
His Eminence Jhado Rinpoche at Istituto Lama Tzong Khapa, Italy, April 2023. Photo courtesy of ILTK Facebook page.
In Pomaia, a beautiful village home to Istituto Lama Tzong Khapa (ILTK), Rinpoche gave the Guhyasamaja initiation over three days. Rinpoche was welcomed and hosted by the two Tibetan resident teachers, Geshe Tenphel and Geshe Gelek.
Translation in Palermo and Pomaia were done by Fabrizio Pallotti and Ven. Legtsok from Sera Je.
On April 18, the land where Lhungtok Choekhorling Monastery was built was blessed and Rinpoche gave the oral transmission of the Holy Names of Manjushri, Manjushri Namasamgiti.
In Bologna, Centro Studi Cenresig, on April 22-24, an Introduction to Tantra was given, as well a teaching on the Sutra of the Eight Buddhas of Medicine, the explanation of the puja, and finally the Eight Buddhas of Medicine jenang was given. The translation was by Andrea Capellari.
The tour in France began in Paris, at the Espace Charenton for Kalachakra Center, on April 29-30. Rinpoche gave the Kalachakra initiation, which had been requested by Ven. Elisabeth over many years. The translators were Ven. Steve for English and Sylvain Berthet for French.
His Eminence Jhado Rinpoche, Institut Vajra Yogini, May 2023. Photo by Tsanka Photography.
In Lavaur, at Institut Vajra Yogini (IVY), home of the 108 Nyung Na yearly retreat conducted by Ven. Charles, Rinpoche first gave the Thousand-armed Chenrezig wang on May 4-5, followed by the Commentary on the Nyung Na practice on 6-7. Rinpoche paid a visit to the Nyung Na practitioners and gave them appreciation and encouragement. Translation was by Ven. Gyurme in English and Katy Delmundo in French.
On May 9 evening, Rinpoche gave an online teaching from IVY to Jamyang London Buddhist Center students on the Seven Point Mind Training. The translation was done by Geshe Namdak.
In Nalanda Monastery, teachings on Mahamudra were given on May 11-12, then Rinpoche gave Solitary Hero Yamantaka initiation May 13-14.
On May 15 Rinpoche ordained nine Getsuls, and thirteen new Gelongs, which is extremely rare and unique in the West. This brought the total number of Sangha in Nalanda to a unique height of almost 60 Sangha on the day of the ordination, “which might be one of the biggest gatherings of Western Sangha in the West,” according to Nalanda Monastery.
Hi Eminence Jhado Rinpoche at Nalanda Monastery, France, May 2023. Photo courtesy of Nalanda Monastery Facebook page.
In Switzerland, Martigny, in Gendun Drupa Center, on May 20-21, Rinpoche taught on “In Praise of Dependent Origination,” by Lama Tsong Khapa, and on the Chapter 8 & 9 of the Bodhisattvacharyavatara, by Shantideva. Translation was done by Katy Delmundo.
In Austria, Vienna, in Panchen Losang Chogyen Gelug Center, on May 27-28, a teaching on Nagarjuna’s Commentary on Bodhicitta Bodhicittavivāraṇa was given. The translation was again done by Ven. Geshema Kelsang Wangmo from Tibetan to English and Ven. Thubten Drolma to German.
The Tour ended in Sweden, Stockholm, for the occasion, the Yeshin Norbu Center rented the Museum of Ethnography.
On Friday, June 2, a general talk was given on “How to practice Dharma in daily life,” then on Saturday June 3, Rinpoche taught on Lama Atisha’s Bodhisattva’s Jewel Mala, and finally on Sunday June 4, a teaching on Refuge and the Refuge ceremony was granted to members of the center. The translation was done by Ven. Michael Yeshe.
Many special thanks to all the Country Coordinators, Directors, SPCs, staff, volunteers, translators, sponsors, various hosts and carers, students, and many Dharma friends for their amazing support in making this tour and auspicious events possible.
A very special thanks to Geshe Loden-la, resident teacher at Institut Vajra Yogini, who initially made the request to Jhado Rinpoche, on our behalf, to come and turn the wheel of Dharma in person in Europe.
Our hearts are full of gratitude, hopes, and prayers in order to welcome His Eminence Jhado Rinpoche again soon in Europe.
Foundation for the Preservation of Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), is a Tibetan Buddhist organization dedicated to the transmission of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition and values worldwide through teaching, meditation and community service.
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You can follow important and inspiring news about His Holiness the Dalai Lama on the official website of His Holiness:
https://www.dalailama.com/news
We invite you to follow the teaching schedule of His Holiness on the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s official website.
Lama Zopa Rinpoche in Maratika, Nepal, 2021. Photo by Ven. Lobsang Sherab
This month’s e-news brings you important news, updates, and causes for rejoicing including:
- Recently shared teachings by Lama Zopa Rinpoche
- A teaching by Lama Yeshe
- An update from the FPMT Inc. Board of Directors
- Opportunities and resources for your study and practice
- Changes within the organization
and much more!
Please read this month’s enews in its entirety.
Have the e-News translated into your native language by using our convenient translation facility located on the right-hand side of the page. French and Spanish speakers will find the FPMT International Office e-News translated each month in the “Bienvenue” and “Bienvenidos” tabs on the FPMT homepage.
Visit our subscribe page to receive the monthly FPMT International Office e-News directly in your email inbox.
Screenshot of the FPMT East & Southeast Asia Virtual Mani Retreat.
When FPMT East & Southeast Asia first planned a Virtual Mani Retreat for this year, it was intended to be on a small scale and to complement the main programs with Lama Zopa Rinpoche as part of his Singapore and Malaysia June-August visit. With Rinpoche showing the aspect of passing away, of course these plans were cancelled. However, this led to the entire region coming together with the wish to organize something much bigger than originally envisioned, dedicated to the swift return of Rinpoche and the success of all of Rinpoche’s many projects. We are delighted to share that they were able to accumulate nearly 15 million recitations of OM MANI PADME HUM!
Retreat Advisor Khen Rinpoche Geshe Chonyi launched the retreat on July 15 with special guest Ven. Roger Kunsang. Following that, a procession of eminent group session leaders each taught on a different part of the Chenrezig sadhana and led the group practice every weekend.
During this event, participants also (virtually) toured all of the major FPMT centers in East and Southeast Asia including Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Mongolia, and Indonesia; with hopes to visit Japan and Hong Kong in the future as well.
An auspicious highlight of the retreat for all was receiving the Chenrezig initiation from Chenrezig himself, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, from Leh in Ladakh.
This momentum will continue on August 26 with FPMT Mongolia’s 100 Million Mani Retreat, with sessions also available online via Facebook livestream; followed by an amazingly precious teaching by His Eminence Ling Rinpoche on September 17 to celebrate the conclusion of both retreats.
Please join us in rejoicing at the accumulation of this incredible 15 million MANI recitations from East & Southeast Asia and for the upcoming accumulation of 100 million more in Mongolia!
One of Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s Vast Visions for the FPMT organization is for these retreats to occur. Rinpoche explained, “[I would like] for the organization to establish 100,000 recitations of 100 million OM MANI PADME HUM mantras. This can be retreats of 100 million recitations, so 100,000 different retreats in different parts of the world and where it is happening, then for it to happen regularly, each year.”
Foundation for the Preservation of Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), is a Tibetan Buddhist organization dedicated to the transmission of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition and values worldwide through teaching, meditation and community service.
H.E. Jhado Rinpoche with some of the participants of the 2023 Nyung Na at IVY.
Institut Vajra Yogini (IVY) in France has hosted its twelfth series of 108 Nyung Na retreats from November 2022 to June 2023. One of Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s Vast Visions for the FPMT organization was to sponsor people who make a serious commitment in this life to complete 1,000 Nyung Na retreats, and IVY kindly began to host the retreats every year to help fulfill this vision. For the last ten years, Lama Zopa Rinpoche has been sponsoring the food and accommodation for a number of people, each year, who undertake the 108 Nyung Na retreats, and in 2023, US$11,522 was offered toward the retreat. We are very happy to continue to offer support each year toward the retreats, in alignment with Rinpoche’s wishes.
The Nyung Na retreat is a two-day intensive practice that includes taking the 24-hour Mahayana precepts every day, with the addition of complete fasting and silence every second day. There are three sessions of about three hours each day, including meditation, prostrations, and mantra recitation. It is a powerfully effective, experiential practice that can be done by anyone with respect and faith for the practice. Lama Zopa Rinpoche has highly praised Nyung Na retreat as a supreme method for transforming the mind.
Four people completed the full round of 108 Nyung Na retreats this year and around 50 people joined to do one or a few two-day retreats. Like last year, Ven. Charles, the retreat leader, offered the morning sessions online every day as well as one complete two-day Nyung Na retreat online once a month, so more students could participate from home. An incredible 600 Nyung Na retreats have been completed at Institut Vajra Yogini over this period by those practicing on site and at home online, although the exact count is difficult to know with the inclusion of the online retreatants. Please take a moment to rejoice!
There were the times when there were only six participants and sometimes around twenty people joined the retreat. The long-term participants enjoy doing this practice in a bigger group as Nyung Na retreats can be more powerful when more people participate, says Nicolas, the director of Institut Vajra Yogini.
Compared to the previous retreats held during the pandemic, it has been much easier to manage the retreat as the Institute did not need to organize COVID tests and follow the safety protocols. This was time-consuming previously, especially due to the high turnover of short-term participants, according to Nicolas.
This spring was especially difficult for the long-term participants, who used to receive personal advice and guidance from Lama Zopa Rinpoche. They did their practice in the midst of great loss and grief when Rinpoche showed the aspect of passing away.
It was a moment of joy when His Eminence Jhado Rinpoche, the former abbot of Namgyal and Gyuto monasteries, visited the Institute on May 4-7, 2023, and over four days conferred the Thousand-Arm Chenrezig initiation and offered a commentary on Nyung Na practice.
To continue fulfilling Rinpoche’s Vast Visions, Institut Vajra Yogini has already begun planning for the thirteenth series of 108 Nyung Na retreats, which will begin mid-November 2023 to mid-June 2024. The retreats are led in French but can be followed simultaneously in English and other languages.
Please join us in rejoicing in twelve consecutive years of Nyung Na retreats at Institut Vajra Yogini.
If you would like to support Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s wish to support these important retreats, you are welcome to offer any amount to the Practice and Retreats Fund
If you are interested in joining the Nyung Na retreat, please contact Institut Vajra Yogini’s Center Director.
Kopan Sangha greeting H.H the 42nd Sakya Trizin Rinpoche, Kopan Monastery August 4, 2023. Photo courtesy of Kopan Monastery.
On August 4, 2023, H.H the 42nd Sakya Trizin Ratna Vajra Rinpoche, eldest son of His Holiness Kyabgon Sakya Gongma Trichen Rinpoche, visited Kopan Monastery to offer prayers for Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s swift return in front of Rinpoche’s holy body, including the eight volumes version of the Prajnaparamita, along with other texts recited by heart.
H.H the 42nd Sakya Trizin Rinpoche offering prayers in front of Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s holy body, Kopan Monastery, Nepal, August 4, 2023. Photo courtesy of Kopan Monastery.
A great number of high lamas have offered their respects, condolences, tributes, and prayers after Rinpoche’s passing including some of the highest lamas of all four traditions of Tibetan Buddhism, and various other traditions and lineages.
H.H the 42nd Sakya Trizin Rinpoche offering prayers in front of Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s holy body, Kopan Monastery, Nepal, August 4, 2023. Photo courtesy of Kopan Monastery.
We invite you to rejoice in this auspicious visit and offering of prayers!
Foundation for the Preservation of Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), is a Tibetan Buddhist organization dedicated to the transmission of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition and values worldwide through teaching, meditation and community service.
We have been moved by the outpouring of kind and heartfelt tributes, condolences, and notice of prayers being offered for Lama Zopa Rinpoche from great lamas, friends, and monastery officials around the world: fpmt.org/teachers/zopa/updates-regarding-rinpoche/#tributes
Lama Zopa Rinpoche at Kopan Monastery, March 2023. Photo by Ven. Lobsang Sherab.
This month’s e-news brings you important news, updates, and causes for rejoicing including:
- Recently shared teachings by Lama Zopa Rinpoche
- An Update from the FPMT Inc. Board of Directors
- Geshe Tenzin Legtsok receives geshe degree
- Rejoicing in offering to 10,000 ordained Sangha on Chokhor Duchen
- News about events, opportunities, and resources for your study and practice
and much more!
Please read this month’s enews in its entirety.
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Geshe Tenzin Legtsok at Sera IMI House, Sera Monastery, India. Photo courtesy of Geshe Tenzin Legtsok.
Ordained by His Holiness the Dalai Lama in 2001, Geshe Tenzin Legtsok is an American Buddhist monk who just completed the Geshe Studies Program at Sera Je Monastic University in Karnataka, South India. This means he has studied the five classic Indian Buddhist treatise from the Ornament for Clear Realizations by Maitreya Buddha to the Vinaysutra by Gunaprabha and their Tibetan commentaries in the tradition of ancient Nalanda University.
Geshe Legtsok is the first US citizen and first Western monk from Kopan Monastery to receive the geshe degree from Sera Je Monastery; joining several other Westerners and non-Tibetan/Himalayan monks to receive geshe degrees before him. This is an auspicious result of mutual appreciation between two distinct cultures that didn’t have much interface before. As Geshe Legtsok notes, “In the past fifty years the Tibetan monastic community has become much more open and supportive of non-Tibetans studying in their midst and now point to them with pride. Also, interest in the Tibetan lineages of Buddhism has grown steadily during that time.”
Born in Virginia, US, in 1973, he obtained a Bachelor of Arts from Kenyon College in 1995. Asking himself the question, “What makes for the most happy and meaningful life?” compelled him to major in philosophy during college and gradually led him to study meditation and philosophy with teachers among the exiled Tibetan communities in India and Nepal from 1999 until the present.
In a recent interview, Geshe Legtsok shared:
Until about five years ago I was never really concerned with attaining the geshe degree. My interest was always just to learn and practice in the way the geshe program affords. When I was a new monk, I just wanted to meditate and wasn’t very inclined to study Buddhist philosophical topics. But as I learned more about the lamrim and lojong teachings it gradually dawned on me that if I wanted to actually develop realizations on the path to enlightenment like the past saints of ancient Nalanda University, Nagarjuna, Shantideva, Chandrakirti, and others, then I had to study the texts they’ve composed detailing the path they had practiced. Also, I figured, if I wanted to become like my own teachers, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Kyabje Lama Zopa Rinpoche, Khensur Lama Lhundrup, and so forth, then I would have to study and practice as they have. This drew me into the geshe program. My own natural curiosity and experience of benefit from studying sustained me from year to year. About five years ago I was ready to leave the program and dedicate more time to retreat, written translation, and service. At that time Lama Zopa Rinpoche advised that it would be more beneficial to finish the entire program and attain the geshe degree, so I continued on until the end.
Geshe Legtsok receiving khatas and gifts from classmates and friends on July 13, the day after completion of the graduation ceremonies.
Nineteen years ago Geshe Legtsok joined the Kopan House at Sera Monastery. which is a large community of sixty monks who are all from Kopan Monastery. Since the former abbot of Kopan Monastery Lama Lhundrup (1941-2011), was Geshe Legtsok’s main teacher at the time he joined Sera, he joined Sera Kopan House and became part of Kopan Monastery. He stayed at Kopan House for the first four years at Sera, but due to his belief that Western monastics should support one another in the program at Sera, he moved into Sera IMI House which was founded by Western FPMT monks at Sera for that purpose. He remained in that community throughout the subsequent years of his study and also remained part of Sera Kopan House participating in functions and upholding responsibilities there.
Geshe Legtsok explains the meaning of the term “geshe” in the following way:
Many people think “geshe” means you are a Buddhist scholar whereas that is not the case. Literally “geshe” means “virtuous friend” and was a term that, in former times, Tibetans organically came to use for a person whom they felt embodied the qualities of a worthy spiritual teacher. This was the case with the Kadampa Geshes for example, similar to the way Lama Yeshe came to be called “lama.” There was no formal procedure by which one received the title geshe then. More recently, the Gelug monasteries have created formal criteria by which a monk is awarded the title geshe; the main criteria is that the candidate follows the discipline of the monastery for a certain number of years, from twenty to twenty-five depending on the monastery. One may study or one may serve the monastery doing various kinds of work during that time, as is the case with many geshes.
Geshe Tenzin Legtsok (far right) reciting a thesis on the five great treatises during the debate examination. Photo courtesy of Geshe Legtsok.
There are several different ceremonies associated with one receiving the geshe degree. One is a public debate examination during which the geshe candidate recites a text from memory in front of the monks still in the study program, and then answers in response to various debates. The other main ceremony is a “thanks offering” which the new geshe makes to the entire community of monks.
On the day of Geshe Legtsok’s main ceremonies there were two other monks becoming geshes. The three of them together offered breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and they each offered twenty rupees to each monk in the monastery. This is according to the monastery rules in order to keep the expense reasonable. The spirit of the offering is to thank the entire community for the training and support they have provided during the program, and, as Geshe Legtsok explained, “to create roots of merit to bring success in one’s practice and activities serving sentient beings going forward.” One also makes offerings to the smaller communities within the monastery of which one is a member. As a member of Tsawa Khangtsen, Sera Kopan House, Sera IMI House, and Kopan Monastery and Nunnery, Geshe Legtsok made offerings of a meal and monetary offering to each member of those communities as well, which, as Geshe Legtsok explains “was possible due to gifts from many generous friends and family members.”
Geshe Legtsok with his father during the khata offering day following the graduation ceremony.
When asked what the geshe degree means to him personally and professionally, Geshe Legtsok explained:
It’s hard to say what the geshe degree will mean professionally. Helping to make Buddha’s teachings available to others is not something in which you should be seeking fame and career advancement. Had I not received the geshe degree, similar opportunities for teaching and translation would probably still arise. But having the title is a succinct way to reference the training program I’ve completed and denotes an official seal of approval. Personally, the most important thing is to have fulfilled Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s wish that I receive the degree. If Rinpoche had advised me not take the geshe degree then to follow that advice would have been most meaningful. Also, it’s rewarding to know that my other teachers are pleased that I’ve finished the entire program and achieved official recognition of that. My classmates, family, and many others in the Buddhist world have expressed joy that I’ve been awarded this honor. It’s good to bring them a little happiness. Perhaps it also shows others that there is this life path available.
Although in one way completing the geshe program is a culmination of years of study and contemplation, more importantly it is a beginning of the real work to deepen one’s practice through meditation and serving the Dharma and sentient beings. I think that would be the best way to repay the infinite kindness of my spiritual teachers, friends, and family who have provided so much support in reaching this small milestone. If I have a few more years in this precious human rebirth to spend in this way I’ll be most grateful.
The entire FPMT community rejoices at Geshe Legtsok’s achievement and offers him every success imaginable!
Foundation for the Preservation of Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), is a Tibetan Buddhist organization dedicated to the transmission of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition and values worldwide through teaching, meditation and community service.
FPMT Inc. Board of Directors, Kopan Monastery, June 2023. Photo by Ven. Lobsang Sherab.
Video: Meet the FPMT Inc. Board of Directors
Following the 49 day period of Rinpoche’s passing, FPMT Inc. board members took the opportunity while together at Kopan to greet the FPMT community in a video, offering FPMT students a chance to meet each board member, learn a little about their background, and hear them express their commitment to fulfilling Rinpoche’s wishes during this new, transitional time for the organization. It also offers a glimpse into the non-stop activities at Kopan during this period, for those who were unable to attend in person.
We are pleased to share this recent update from the FPMT Inc. Board of Directors:
An Update from the FPMT Inc. Board
Dear Friends,
It has been a little over a month since the last Board Update and so it is definitely time to let you all know what we have been doing. Also, it seems that not everyone in the FPMT organization is aware of who or what the FPMT Inc. Board is, so here follows a short explanation of these two points. More information can be found on the FPMT website.
The ‘we’ here refers to the FPMT, Inc. Board of Directors, which was constituted in March 2021 as selected by Lama Zopa Rinpoche. A notable exception is Ven. Thubten Pemba, who was a Board member many years ago. Some months back Rinpoche indicated that it would be beneficial if Ven. Pemba were to re-join the FPMT Inc. Board of Directors and very recently he was formally requested, and he has agreed, to do so. We are very happy to welcome him back!
Lama Zopa Rinpoche was a member of the Board until his passing in April 2023; now we are six members:
- Khen Rinpoche Geshe Chonyi -abbot of Kopan Monastery,
- Thubten Pemba – co-director of Cham Tse Ling in Hong Kong, he previously served on the FPMT Board for 18 years,
- Roger Kunsang – Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s assistant for 37 years, CEO of FPMT International Office,
- Dale Davis – a long-time student; she worked for INGOs in Nepal from the 1990s,
- Karuna Cayton – serving the FPMT since 1975, professional psychotherapist and executive coach,
- Paula de Wys – chair of the Board, has served the FPMT in various capacities since the 1970’s.
Responsibilities of the FPMT Inc. Board of Directors
During Kyabje Zopa Rinpoche’s lifetime the Board felt responsible to make the vision of both Rinpoche and Lama Thubten Yeshe a reality in this world.
With Rinpoche no longer with us physically, that feeling of responsibility has become even stronger.
According to the statutes of FPMT Inc., with the passing of Lama Zopa Rinpoche the FPMT Inc. board takes on his legal responsibilities. Rinpoche expressed clearly that we also have a moral, or as he put it a ‘mental’, responsibility to help guide the organization and help to fulfill its mission. We take this responsibility and commitment to Rinpoche seriously indeed and will continue to do our utmost to fulfill Rinpoche and Lama’s wishes and put their vision into practice. We know that everyone in FPMT centers, projects, and services has the same motivation.
In our previous message sent to the FPMT community it seems we were unclear on the meaning of a statement made by Rinpoche. We quoted Rinpoche, with reference to the FPMT Inc. Board, saying, “You know what I want. You know what I think.” As was pointed out to us after we distributed the Update, this statement could be misunderstood. Because we did not provide the full context, it could be construed that the Board was claiming that it understood Rinpoche’s holy mind. We apologize if this is how our statement was interpreted. To be clear, Rinpoche’s statement was made in a final meeting where we had been discussing succession plans and the future of the organization. This discussion had been going on for months, if not years. After the Board attempted to get further clarification on the future direction of the organization, Rinpoche said, in order to let us know that we did not need to discuss this any further, that he had expressed his thinking on the topic. Once again, our sincere apologies for any confusion on this matter.
Not One Successor
The question is sometimes asked, “With Rinpoche’s essential role why would he not appoint a successor?”. After years of consideration, Rinpoche expressed many times that he did not want one person to take on the position of his successor, a position built on 40 years’ experience in the organization. However, he ensured that for important matters we could consult with H.H. the Dalai Lama, who has generously offered to assist with counsel and advice. As Rinpoche reflected on the future of the organization he felt a group of esteemed spiritual teachers would be of great value by providing spiritual guidance and advice to the centers and students. While Rinpoche began to speak with a number of teachers, this ‘Advisory council of teachers’ has not yet been formally constituted. We will, of course, let you know when it has been formalized.
Some Recent Activities of the Board
To give you an idea of some of the many things that were worked on during the last weeks, here is a short list of points:
- At the special request of the Board of Kopan Monastery, and on behalf of all FPMT students, we have requested His Holiness the Dalai Lama to please advise if there are further practices for Rinpoche’s swift return. These practices would be in addition to long life prayers written by His Holiness, Jhado Rinpoche, Lelung Tulku, Khadro la and others that are recited by students all over the world.
- We have been working with International Office (IOF) to create a new Resident Geshe and Teachers Committee that will come with recommendations for these important positions. As in the past, the responsibility for finding suitable teachers will continue to be performed by IOF in collaboration with the new committee, which will consist of both Himalayan, non-Himalayan, lay and monastic members whose mutual experience will inform the final decision or recommendation.
- We have also been working on a clear answer as to how new directors will be appointed. Although it was often seen as Rinpoche’s decision, the decision to appoint someone as the director of a center was, and still must be, taken by the local board of that center. IOF guides and advises in this process. Rinpoche was able to check the karmic suitability of the person whose name was submitted to him, but the present Board does not have that expertise. Therefore, what is done at the local level is even more important than before. The name, or names, of candidate(s) are then submitted to IOF – as was always done – and then to the Board. At each level we will check in various ways as to the suitability of the person as a director and we will weigh in on a recommendation. However, the final decision was, and still is, the responsibility of the local board.
- A committee, under the guidance of Khen Rinpoche Geshe Chonyi has been formed to search for the reincarnation of our holy guru Kyabje Zopa Rinpoche. It is still very early to begin to look for Rinpoche’s reincarnation, but not too early to make preparations to do so. His Holiness the Dalai Lama has expressed on several occasions that he will be involved in the process of finding the reincarnation and later in helping to educate the child, for which we are extremely grateful.
Contact, Support
The FPMT is a spiritual organization dedicated to the liberation from suffering of all sentient beings. With Kyabje Zopa Rinpoche as our Spiritual Director there was no doubt about his dedication to others. With Rinpoche no longer with us physically, we are looking at how to express this important aspect of the organization and to find practical ways of supporting students as well as the FPMT centers, projects, services and students spiritually as well as administratively. We will keep you informed as we progress and welcome your ideas and suggestions.
As an organization the FPMT, with its centers, projects, and services, has grown in an amazing – and organic – way during the last 50 years. Our shared challenge now is to keep the organization healthy and to continue to develop and evolve it in accordance with Lama and Rinpoche’s wishes. We hope to hear from you soon, and rest assured that comments and suggestions sent to the Board will be treated as confidential.
All best wishes for every success,
Khen Rinpoche Geshe Chonyi
Ven. Thubten Pemba
Ven. Roger Kunsang
Dale Davis
Karuna Cayton
Paula de Wys
Foundation for the Preservation of Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), is a Tibetan Buddhist organization dedicated to the transmission of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition and values worldwide through teaching, meditation and community service.