the pure vision of his eminence shyalpa tenzin

mahasiddha sanctuary for universal peace , The Mahasiddha Sanctuary for Universal Peace will honor the Enlightened One’s fearless engagement and compassionate action in our world for the benefit and wel- fare of all sentient beings. It will serve as a radiant beacon, helping to inspire and guide individuals, communities, and nations toward peaceful coexistence and reconciliation.

2 butter lamp

lotus flower

The Mahasiddha Sanctuary for Universal Peace will grace the site of Lord Buddha’s birth. The outer structure of the Sanctuary Shrine Hall evokes images of a lotus flower (the innate purity of Buddha nature), a butter lamp (the five Buddha wisdoms), a stupa (the enlightened mind of Buddha), and a mandala (the field of enlightened activity). At the pinnacle is a golden finial representing the thirteen (levels of accomplishment).

3 The vast immaculate space of the Sanctuary Shrine Hall conveys the timeless purity of Buddha’s enlightenment. A golden statue of Queen Mayadevi with the newborn Prince Siddhartha shines in sunlight from above.

4 The Universal Peace Library The Grand Assembly Hall The Universal Peace Library will house a vast, compre- The Grand Assembly Hall will accommodate up to 5,000 hensive collection of Lord Buddha’s canonical teachings, people for teachings, empowerments, conferences, and and , writings and commentaries by real- seminars, with state-of-the-art video and audio facilities. ized masters of all Buddhist traditions in print and digital It will host the International Buddhist Federation Peace formats, in native languages and in languages for which Conference and other related events. translations are available. In addition, the library will be Meditation Rooms and Halls a repository of texts on the topic of peace, passed down from masters of all spiritual traditions. These sacred texts Meditation is central to Buddhist spiritual practice. will be the inner relics of Mahasiddha Sanctuary. Visitors to the peace sanctuary will have access to per- sonal meditation instruction from resident teachers and The Peace Museum may practice alone or with monks in quiet meditation The Peace Museum will provide a spiritually and aesthet- rooms. Arrangements can be made for short-term or ically enriching experience for visitors of the Mahasiddha long-term retreats. Several meditation halls will accom- Sanctuary. All around the world, there are great works of modate larger gatherings for group practice, teachings, art pertaining to the Buddha’s birth, life, and activities, and ceremonies. many of which date back to the early centuries of the The Universal Peace Institute Common Era. Many of these precious artifacts—thang- ka paintings, precious statues, sacred texts, and ritual The Universal Peace Institute for objects—are unknown or rarely seen by the public. The will offer a complete curriculum, including Buddhist Peace Museum will call upon collectors, philanthropists, philosophy, dialectics, and history; Himalayan cul- monasteries, and institutions for donations. These pre- ture; , Nepali, Tibetan, Chinese, and English cious artifacts will have a permanent home where they languages. The institute will include a research center, can be carefully preserved, displayed, and presented to where scholars collect, review, and amend ancient and the public. contemporary Tibetan . The center will create a database of digitalized texts and print these texts in the traditional Tibetan format.

5 KplusK associates, Executive Architects, Hong Kong Beijing Institute of Architectural Design, civil & structural engineers, China J. Roger Preston Sdn Bhd, M&E engineers, Malaysia Meinhardt Sdn Bhd, civil & structural engineering review, Malaysia

6

Actualizing the Vision

Since 2013, His Eminence has been traveling around for enrichment of the earth and purification of the the world to share his pure vision for the Mahasiddha environment. Sanctuary for Universal Peace. His travels have taken On May 10, 2017, His Eminence Shyalpa Tenzin him to Thailand, Hong Kong, Malaysia, China, Rinpoche was joined by thousands of friends and dev- Taiwan, Vietnam, England, and the United States. otees for the Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony. Rinpoche sees this as an opportunity to share the heal- ing teachings of the Buddha and his message of peace. On April 29, 2018, the Honorable Tourism Minister of Nepal joined H.H. the IXth Kyabgon Jedrungpa In November 2013, over 2,500 devotees gathered and H.E. Shyalpa Tenzin Rinpoche to celebrate the near the Sacred Garden in Lumbini, Nepal, to recite commencement of construction of the Mahasiddha prayers and attend the historical groundbreaking cer- Sanctuary for Universal Peace. emony for the Mahasiddha Sanctuary for Universal Peace. On June 13, 2014, a formal launch ceremony Since 2013, charity dinner celebrations have been took place in Hong Kong, where a model of the tem- organized throughout Asia and in Europe by Rin- ple’s design was unveiled to the public for the first poche’s nonprofit organization, Wencheng Gongzhu time. Shyalpa Tenzin Rinpoche spoke about his vision International Foundation. With His Eminence as the for the sanctuary and invited everyone to participate Chairman, a Board of Directors has been assembled to in this sublime and sacred undertaking. oversee all activities of the sanctuary project; and Deloitte, Hong Kong, has been designated as its au- On May 21, 2016, at the future site of the sanctu- diting and accounting firm. ary, the Golden Vase Placement Ceremony was held

8 A Treasure for All Humanity

In the 623 bce, Queen Mayadevi was journeying to her master plan. This plan includes two zones reserved for homeland to give birth to her only son. She stopped monasteries. to rest in Lumbini, a cool and peaceful garden filled In 1997 Lumbini was designated a UNESCO World with beautiful flowers and sal trees. It was here that Heritage Site due to its great spiritual and historical she gave birth to the luminous Siddhartha Gautama. importance as the actual birthplace of the Buddha. The holy prince was destined from birth to become The first monastery was established in 1992, and many the Buddha, the Enlightened One. have been built since then. Today it is considered one Lumbini is sacred ground where Lord Buddha came of the most holy destinations for spiritual seekers into the world to manifest awakening and lead beings around the world. to the state of enlightenment. For over 2,600 years Upon visiting Lumbini, UN Secretary-General Ban Lumbini has been an important pilgrimage place; Ki-moon said, “I am awestruck by the beauty and pro- however, for hundreds of years the site was largely found significance of this site, the birthplace of the Lord neglected. In 1967 His Excellency U Thant, the Secre- Buddha. Being here, I am reminded of his amazing tary-General of the United Nations, visited Lumbini life journey from sheltered prince to founder of one of the and was moved by its profound significance. He went world’s great religions. I sincerely hope that we can learn on to propose the development of Lumbini as a major from his lessons, from his teachings and his philosophy to center for pilgrimage. The United Nations commis- bring peace, stability, harmony, reconciliation and friend- sioned the renowned Japanese architect Kenzo Tange ship among people of different beliefs, different religions to develop a master plan for the site, and it was fi- and cultures. This is exactly what human beings should nalized and approved in 1978. In 1985 the Lumbini promote and pursue for a better world, a more peaceful, Development Trust was established to implement the more prosperous world.”

9 ETERNAL PEACE FLAME, LUMBINI, NEPAL

10

Outstanding Universal Value

The World Heritage Committee, at its 36th session at Saint Peters- burg in 2012, adopted the retrospective Statement of Outstanding Universal Value of Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha:

The complex of structures within the archaeological conservation area include the Pond (Pushkarani), the remains within the Mayadevi Temple consisting of brick structures in a cross-wall system dating from the 3rd century bce to the present century, and the sandstone Pillar with its inscriptions in Brahmi script. Additionally, there are the excavated remains of Buddhist viharas (monasteries) of the 3rd century bce to the 5th century ce and the remains of Buddhist (memo- rial shrines) from the 3rd century bce to the 15th century ce. The site is now being developed as a Buddhist pilgrimage center in which the archaeological remains asso- ciated with the birth of Lord Buddha form a central feature.

The archaeological remains of Buddhist viharas and stupas provide important evidence about the nature of Buddhist pilgrimage centers from a very early period.

The integrity of Lumbini has been achieved by means of preserving the archaeolog- ical remains that give the property its Outstanding Universal Value. The significant attributes and elements of the property have been preserved.

12 T he holy site of Lumbini has ruins of ancient monasteries, a sacred Bodhi tree, an ancient bathing pond, the Ashoka Pillar, and the Mayadevi Temple at the site of the Buddha’s birth. From early morn- ing to early evening, pilgrims from from all around the world chant and meditate in the Sacred Garden.

13 14 Lumbini is not only a pilgrimage site for Buddhists, but it is also a symbolic place for people who wish to promote peace throughout the world. The site is ideal for practitioners of meditation; fascinating for research- ers and journalists; a challenge for architects and conser- vationists; and a source of livelihood for the local people. Lumbini is an open school, where every visitor, pilgrim, meditation practitioner, tourist, or researcher can get satisfaction by realizing and experiencing peace.

15 H.E. Shyalpa Tenzin Rinpoche, visionary/conceptual design • Prof. Stephan Braunfels, Architect, conceptual design, Germany • KplusK associates, Executive Architects, Hong Kong The Mahasiddha Sanctuary for Universal Peace will serve the communities in and around Lumbini. It will coordinate with other charitable organizations that provide free eye, ear, cleft lip, and palate surgeries; arrange mobile medical units; aid the elderly; and support local hospitals and educational centers.

17 Lord Buddha was born in 623 bce in the sacred area of Lumbini located in the Terai plains of southern Nepal, according to the inscrip-

tion on the pillar erected by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka in 249 bce. Lumbini is one of the holiest places of one of the world’s great reli- gions, and its remains contain important evidence about the nature of

Buddhist pilgrimage centers from as early as the 3rd century bce.

18 Ashoka Pillar A lthough the Mahasiddha Sanctuary for Universal Peace is located at one of four major Buddhist pilgrimage sites, its mission is not strictly religious in nature; it will accentuate pure spirituality. All pure spiritual paths aim to transcend sectarian beliefs, recognize the basic goodness in all sentient beings, and embrace our shared humanity. In this spirit, the Mahasiddha Sanctuary will be a place for peaceful negotiation to address potential or real conflicts around the world. Lumbini, Nepal, will be the ideal venue for resolving seemingly intractable conflicts. The sanctuary will feature a Grand Assembly

Hall for conferences and discussions as well as a Shrine Hall for quiet introspection.

Peace is the motive and the message of this meaningful project.

20 How Can We Participate?

As His Eminence Shyalpa Tenzin Rinpoche travels pure generosity. Rinpoche says that the Mahasiddha around the world sharing his vision for the Mahasiddha Sanctuary project is really about giving everyone the Sanctuary, many are inspired and ask Rinpoche how opportunity to participate with a good heart. they can contribute. Rinpoche responds by saying: His Eminence has stated that we are doing much “I would like you to think of this as your project, not as more than building a physical temple in Lumbini. Rinpoche’s project. This is everyone’s project! If you see Rinpoche wishes to inspire everyone by sharing the something worthy here, if you feel inspired and would like healing message of the Buddha all around the world. to contribute to a more peaceful and compassionate world, Rinpoche states: “It is great to build temples, especially in feel free to use your creativity and see what you can do to pilgrimage sites such as Lumbini. However, we all need to support this project and inspire others.” build temples of tolerance and peace within our own hearts. All around the world, much assistance is needed to help Then, wherever we go and whatever we do, we will always organize and spread the message of the Mahasiddha find in the true sanctuary within.” peace project and its spiritual and historical signifi- The and good karma generated from participat- cance. All people can use their ingenuity and talents to ing in this charitable activity will be immeasurable. inform and inspire others. This is a great opportunity Rinpoche invites everyone to support this sacred proj- for people to come together and share in the good ect with one positive thought, one prayer for peace, karma and merit. or one single dollar, yuan, or rupee. His Eminence Building the Mahasiddha Sanctuary in Lumbini speaks about the true meaning of this endeavor: “The will require much funding; however, His Eminence Mahasiddha Sanctuary is about nourishing seeds of uni- does not wish to limit donations to a few wealthy versal harmony and peace. Everyone can participate with patrons. The Buddha taught us that the size of a gift a pure and generous heart—free of personal agenda. is not important; rather, it is the purity of intention According to the teaching of the Buddha, this is the at- that makes a gift meritorious. If one gives a gift with titude that will engender peace, harmony, tolerance, and good intentions and expects nothing in return, this is understanding.”

21 His Holiness the IXth Kyabgon Jedrungpa & His Eminence Shyalpa Tenzin Rinpoche

22 Shyalpa Monastery, , Nepal His Eminence Shyalpa Tenzin Rinpoche

His Eminence Shyalpa Tenzin Rinpoche was born in and the Himalayan Children’s Fund, which spon- the foothills of the Himalaya Mountains. He was rec- sors poor, underprivileged children. In 2009, Rin- ognized as a holy child and began training as a poche founded Wencheng Gongzhu International from the age of four. Rinpoche attended the Buddhist Foundation in Hong Kong, with branches in Taiwan university in , near Varanasi, , and later and Malaysia, to support his compassionate activities received empowerment and transmissions from many in Asia. of the greatest realized Buddhist masters of our time. Rinpoche is a holder of , the Great In 2013, the Nepalese government entrusted His Perfection—his primary root teacher is His Holiness Eminence with the task of developing a precious tract Chatral Rinpoche, Sangjey Dorje. of land in Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha. Rinpoche’s vision is to build a sanctuary that will With great compassion and wisdom, Shyalpa Tenzin honor the sacred birthplace of Shakyamuni Buddha Rinpoche teaches us how to actualize the essence and serve as a pilgrimage site for visitors of every race, of our precious human lives. Just as a small key can color, and creed—a fountain of universal peace and open the door to the vast and splendid treasures hid- understanding. den within a palatial mansion, Rinpoche’s pithy and succinct teachings reveal profound, life-changing in- After Kyabje Sangay Tsering Rinpoche proclaimed structions on how to transform our way of being in unmistaken recognition of Rinpoche’s son, the everyday life. latter was enthroned as His Holiness the IXth Kyab- gon Jedrungpa at Shyalpa Monastery & Nunnery in For over 30 years His Eminence has conducted count- Kopan, Kathmandu, Nepal, in 2015. less retreats, seminars, and empowerments at cen- ters throughout Asia, North America, and Europe. In April 2018 construction for the Mahasiddha Sanctuary for Universal Peace commenced. His Rinpoche will give teachings and conduct pujas for large groups of hundreds of followers or offer heart- Eminence Shyalpa Tenzin Rinpoche would like to felt advice to small gatherings of devoted students. invite all of humanity to participate and support this most sacred project and pay sincere respect to Lord In Kathmandu, Nepal, His Eminence established Buddha. In this way, everyone will have the opportu- Shyalpa Monastery and Nunnery, Mipham Institute, nity to share in the meritorious karma.

24 It is great to build temples, especially in pilgrimage sites such as Lumbini. However, we all need to build temples of tolerance and peace within our own hearts. Then, wherever we go and whatever we do, we will always find refuge in the true sanctuary within.

S h ya lpa T e nz i n R i n p o c h e Generosity is the virtue that produces peace

The Mahasiddha Sanctuary project is supported by Rangrig Yeshe, Inc., a non-profit, tax-exempt spiritual organization founded in the United States in 1989, and its sister nonprofit organizations, Wencheng Gongzhu International Foundation, established in HK in 2009, and Himalayan Foundation, established in Nepal in 2010. An international board of trustees will oversee fundraising, construc- tion, and management of the Mahasiddha Sanctuary for Universal Peace. Deloitte, Hong Kong, is our auditing, consulting, and financial advisory firm. We sincerely invite everyone to support and participate in this proj- ect. His Eminence Shyalpa Tenzin Rinpoche suggests that everyone be given the opportunity to accumulate good karma by supporting this meritorious endeavor. Rinpoche suggests that every person who longs for peace offers a prayer for the successful completion of the sanctuary, along with a donation—­ large or small. With the power of your generosity and the Buddha’s blessings, we hope to have the honor of celebrating the completion of the Mahasiddha Sanctuary with you in the near future.

26 If the sending bank has a U.S. correspondent: Payment Information ABA Number: 21 1870870 Lee Bank, BY CHECK: 75 Park St., Lee, MA 01238 Rangrig Yeshe, Inc. • WGIF (HK) Account Number: 0000026882 Make payable to Wencheng Gongzhu International Foundation, Ltd. Please Credit to: Your account number and name mail together with the donation form to WGIF, Unit D, 8/F., Prosperous If the sending bank does not have a U.S. correspondent, provide Commercial Building, 54-58 Jardine’s Bazaar, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong. the following instructions to the foreign bank sending the international • Rangrig Yeshe, Inc. (USA) wire: Make payable to Rangrig Yeshe, Inc. Please mail together with the donation Receiving Bank: form to Rangrig Yeshe, Inc., PO Box 1167, Stockbridge, MA 01262, USA. SWIFT CHASUS33 JP Morgan Chase Bank NA Beneficiary Bank (SWIFT Field Tag 57A): BY BANK TRANSFER: SWIFT EASRUS3B Eastern Bank • WGIF (HK) Ultimate Beneficiary (SWIFT Field Tag 59): Please deposit to Wencheng Gongzhu International Foundation, Ltd. Beneficiary Acct # 10064277 Bank Name: Standard Chartered Bank (HK) Ltd. Beneficiary Name: Lee Bank Bank Account: HKD 447-06924-048, USD 447-06924-080 Beneficiary Address: 75 Park St, Lee MA Bank Code: 003 *For Further Credit To: Rangrig Yeshe, Inc. Bank Swift Code: SCBLHKHHXXX Account # 0000026882 (for Lumbini Project) Bank Location and Address: Shop G1 of ground floor and whole of first floor, Commercial Podium. Standard Chartered Bank Building, 4-4A Des BY PayPal: Voeux Road Central, Hong Kong For issuing receipts, please post your donation record together with www.peacesanctuary.org your personal details to our office address, Unit D, 8/F., Prosperous Commercial Building, 54-58 Jardine’s Bazaar, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong. Tel: (852) 3188 4078

• Rangrig Yeshe, Inc. (USA) To ensure incoming international wire transfers are processed and posted to your accounts, you will need to provide your business partners and any inter- national banks with specific routing instructions:

27 27 Donation item number Unit Cost (US$) Total Quantity

1. One Ceramic Floor Tile...... US$10...... 50,000

2. One Ceramic Wall Tile...... US$ 50...... 15,000

3. One Cubic Meter of Excavation...... US$ 120...... 80,000

4. One Square Meter of Structural Walls...... US$ 250...... 2,500

5. One Tree for Landscaping...... US$ 500...... 500

6. One Seating Space in Conference Hall...... US$ 1,000...... 1,235

7. One Square Meter of Cladding for Outer Sanctuary Hall...... US$ 3,500...... 2,800

8. One Step of Exterior Stairways...... US$ 5,500...... 220

9. Window Frame and Glass for Three-Tiered Base...... US$ 9,000...... 180

10. Glass for Sanctuary Hall ...... US$ 25,000...... 100

11. Individual Meditation Room...... US$ 50,000...... 5

12. Gold-Plated Buddha Statues 12a. 8-inch...... US$ 500...... 1,000 12b. 12-inch...... US$ 2,500...... 500 12c. 18-inch ...... US$ 5,000...... 100

28 Donation Form

Name ______Thank You For Your Generous Contribution Name to be printed on receipt ______Address ______

Tel ______Email ______I wish to donate dollar amount (USD):______NAME I wish to donate for the following item(s):

Donation item Cost US$ Quantity Sub-total ______DATE

______CONTRIBUTION

Grand Total US$

Payment Method  by check  by bank transfer  PayPal

Signature ______Date ______

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