THE MIRROR The International Newspaper of the Dzog-chen Community Issue 21 Decorating the Merigar Gonpa IN THIS ISSUE TEACHING by John Shane liberation in the minds of Helping the dead and Friday the 23rd of April was those who pass under them. dying one of those beautiful spring Namkhai Norbu days in Tuscany when the himself will be the Director Chögyal Namkhai Norbu landscape around Merigar of the project while Chögyal page 2 seemed lit with a magical light, Rinpoche, a master of the and the fields of the Drugpa Kagyupa school and surrounding countryside were thanka painter has j ust arrived NEWS alive with birdsong in the fresh at Merigar to carry out the Australian land morning air as members of work of painting the figures the Community gathered in of the lineage of the project launched the Gonpa to perform a Masters during the time he page 4 practice for the Inauguration has kindly agreed to stay at of the work of decorating the Merigar. structure. Namkhai Norbu Batodalay Dugarov, a thanka Conway accepts Rinpoche was in fine form, painter from Buryatia will Tseygalgar offer and there were present a fair also soon arrive with his son, number of people who had another painter, and will add pageS remained after the end of the his expert knowledge and Easter retreat to participate. skill. Merigar library With Rinpoche leading us we Nickolai Dudka, a young practised a medium tun th an ka painter from Kiev who appeal followed by a sang ,th e was trained and lives in page 6 cypress smoke billowing up Buryatia has already arrived from the sankhang outside the at Merigar, after Gonpa towards the clear sky, unfortunately being held up Tashigar opens offering to the Guardians and by a two week delay in asking them to help the work Moscow due to visa membership to go well. We followed this difficulties that caused him page 8 with a rite of lungta to re- An example of to ornament the Gonpa to miss the Easter retreat. His authenticate the prayer flags, and a underneath to show through, will be there. skilled collaboration will be very rite to authenticate namka, as well European Gakyil written the Song of the in Around the large beam that runs valuable. An international group of as many repetitions of the Naggon, phagpa script (the name of a Sakyapa right round the inside of the structure painters and artists including Wilvin the heart of the Guardians. meeting master who became the master of an to support the dome there will be the Pederson from Norway and Felix Afterwards Rinpoche spoke with us Emperor from the Yuan dynasty), forms of the Masters of the Lineage Dawe of the UK is already busily at page 3 informally, and explained his vision and some root of the of the Three Series. work finalising drawings which will of what he wishes to have painted Dzogchen Semde, Longde and Outside, each of the sides facing in be transferred onto the Gonpa inside and outside the Gonpa, and Upadesa in the Nyan-gyud (sNyan- the eight directions will have the shortly. how it should be done. FEATURES rgyud) script. In addition the syllablesof the Eight Classes painted A team of four people was form ed to He told us that inside the dome of on the beams above the windows, coordinate the work: Isabel Wagner, Temple of the Great the roof, on a pale blue background different manifestations of the while there will be mantras above Andreas Hannig, Claudio Maritano that will allow the grain of the wood transformations that are used in the Liberation Anuyoga system will be painted the doors to place a cause of and Franco Branca (who is the caretaker of the Gonpa). Isabel, who An interview with Namkhai is a picture restorer by profession is Norbu Rinpoche Dugu Chögyal Rinpoche at Merigar studying the technical aspects ofhow page 9 best to bind the pigments in the paint so that the work will be durable and On leaving Tibet in 1959, the not fade. Theravada and 8th. Ven. Dugu Chögyal A team of practitioners, wearing Dzog-chen Rinpoche eventually settled at heavy gloves and with masks Tashi Jong in Himchal Pradesh, covering their noses and mouths, Laurence Mills India, where a community of has been busy in the warm sun since page 10 practitioners formed around his the Inauguration sanding off the root , the 8th. Khamtrul varnish from various surfaces of the Interview Rinpoche. Like most of his Gonpa to prepare them for previous incarnations, Chögyal repainting. with N. Dudka, Rinpoche is a highly gifted artist, The balustrade around the deck that surrounds the building has been thanka painter and he very kindly accepted given a coat of paint and is now red page 11 Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche's and yellow instead of the colour of invitation to participate in the natural wood. The rest of the painting of the Merigar Gonpa. structure will be transformed in the in He will spend two weeks at same way until the whole Gonpa is borderlands Merigar this June, and has resplendent with colours, forms and Elio Guarisco Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche and Chögyal Rinpoche conferring over somepromise d to return again in writing, all manifesting various aspects of the teaching. page 12 designs for the Gonpa (photo Mario M agli etti) September. 2 Helping the dead and dying by Chögyal Namkhai Norbu

This article is part of a transmission which they received transcription of a teaching given by during their lifetime. So it can be Chögyal Namkhai Norbu on the very important to make them morning of April 15th, 1993, during understand the condition and the the Easter retreat at Merigar. nature of the . If the person was a good Shitro is an important practice practitioner and knew how to do for helping those who have died; it something more, then one should involves helping others through the prepare a piece of paper on which practice of Vajrasattva. Even if no the letter NRI is written Remember one in particular has died we can that among the Six Lokas, NRI is wish to help all sentient beings the symbol of the human realm. So through our practice of Vajrasattva, if it is a human being that has died, and through our good intention you must write NRI on the paper, towards all beings we can accumu­ but if, for example, it is your dog late good actions. But even if we that has died and you want to do a have such good intentions, it's purification for him or her, then you difficult for all the other beings to should write TRI on the paper receive the benefit in this way, because that is the symbol of the because in order to receive it there animal realm. must be a concrete relationship Below this syllable you should between us and them. If there isn't write the name of the person for such relationship it's very difficult whom you want to carry out the for the other beings to receive the purification. And afterthatyou write benefit. But at least we can dedicate all the obstacles and negative our practice to the many people both and then SHINTAM KURU YE living and dead with whom we've SVAHA which means "may it be had a relationshipdurin g our many purified", and you put this piece of lives, and thus it can be beneficial. paper in front of yourself. That's one way of doing it. If you are doing this as part of a It is generally very important for Shitro ritual, then you put it in front practitioners to know how to help of the . If that is too those who have died when they are complicated for you then you can do doing the Shitro practice; and a simple Shitro practice in the way certainly the Shitro and Vajrasattva that we usually do, writing on the practice is one of the main practices paper as described earlier, and fixing for helping them, but there are also the paper to a stick to keep it still. many other things that one can do. Avalokiteshvara Khorva Dongtruk (calligraphy Namkhai Norbu Rinpocne, drawing Felix Dawe) The paper and the writing are like a When you are working with a support for the consciousness of the person who is in the process of dying, 108 medicines mixed with important at all. If the person is a good dies and one should leave him alone dead person, because that you have to understand what kind of relics authenticated by long practice practitioner and they have in order to give him space to realize consciousness no longer has a body. a person they are. They may be of mantras etc. You can give it to the maintained their and are him se If. That ' s another thing Idon't Without this, we don't know where someone that we know and like, and dying person to taste. This can good at meditation, then they may know how we can do in the Western the consc iouness is, and so we don't whom we want to help, but if that sincerely help, not directly, but it remain in their meditation for three world. know how to comunicate with it. If person has never been interested in will put a certain cause so that in a days after death, or sometimes even If one is not a particularly good we have made the support then we the teaching, and has never believed future life they may have the capacity more. What this means is that at the practitioner, then after three days know that it represents the dead in anything like the path, when the to go onto the path. It is very moment of death a good practitioner one 's consciousness reawakens. It 's person and we can talk and converse moment of their death comes, they important to do this. of tantrism transfers into his or her not that it reawakens in the corpse with iL are going to die in that same way as If the person had at least some transformation. A transformation in of the person because the Then we can, for example, give they lived, without having any kind of relationship with or interest the tannic system is always an inner consciousness is already outside. them the introduction to the bardo. interest in it. It is said that even if the in the teaching but they didn't transformation, one cannot The body they awaken into is And if one is a good practitioner, Buddha has infinite wisdom and manage to do a lot of practice then in transform externally in the outer composed of the senses and is called one can also give the empowerment capacity, if a person does not have that case the first thing one can do is world. And in that aspect one the mental body. This reawakening of the teaching. the karma of being interested, then to practise phew a. Phew a works for remains in that presence for many of the mind is a very important Or we can purify the person it's not possible for him to do those who have trained in it; if I days. So, if, practising like this, one moment, so on the third day it's through the support of the anything. So it isn't possible to give perform the practice ofphowa for a dies in the meditation position, one important to do practice for the dead purification mantra. And through this type of person any great help. person and they already have a remains in it for many days. When person What is the main practice the mantra and the practice of Shitro, The most we can do for them is to certain knowledge and experience the body shows signs that the one must do on this third day? If one remembering that we ourselves are give them something like a tagdrol, of it, then it can help them. position is loosening up, that means is doing practice for another manifesting as Vajrasattva with the to wear on the body which wil 1 pi ace One should do the at the that the consciousness has emerged. practitioner, one should read the mandala of the Peaceful Deities, we a positive cause for going onto the moment of death. It is said that the Until then, remaining in that Tibetan Book of the Dead, iheBardo send out rays of light from all the path in their future life. perfect moment to do it is when the (position), it's almostas if the person Thodrol, to them. mándalas and the A HUM and A tagdrol is prepared with a m án­ outer breathing is interrupted but is alive. If the person who has died There are many levels of purify the support. dala on it, and you must put it into the inner breathing is not yet is that type of practitioner, the best introduction in this book. By We can also purify it through the contact with the person's body. interrupted. This is the perfect thing to do is not to disturb the body. introduction we mean various ways mantra of Vajrasattva and the Alternatively you can write the Song moment because even if the But in the Western world I think it's of trying to remind the person who Hundred Syllable mantra. In the of the Vajra or the Six Syllables 'A deceased person does not have great almost impossible to proceed in this has died of the teaching and the Shitro practice there is a specific A HA SHA SA MA on a piece of knowledge it is the moment when way. When one dies here, one has to practice. Even if the person was a bit mantra which should be recited paper and put it in touch with them. their consciousness must leave the declare the death and the body is stupid and didn't understand much many times, which is also for This will help the person in the futu­ body. Through the practice of phowa removed immediately, one can't when they received teachings during purification. re by creating a cause for them. one can direct the way their even keep it in one's home. Thus I their life, at this moment of When we have finisheddoin g all If you have the possibility you consciousness emerges. If one is really don't know how a practitioner reawakening it is said that they have the purification, we burn the support. should recite or whisper the Hundred interested in doing this, then one can remain and continue in the seven times more clarity than This may be on the third day or the SyllableMantra.ee theSixSyllables, must learn how to do the phowa. thugdam. normal, because they no longer have anniversary of the specific day of or the Song of the Vajra into their Then there's not much one can If the person who is dying is a the obstacle of the physical body. the week on which death occurred, ear so that dying or dead person can do for a while: for three days after practitioner of Dzogchen and wants The mind and the consciousness of but generally speaking if we are hear iL Otherwise there is mindrup, death it is as if the person has fainted. to realize the Body of Light then it's all the senses are naked. In that doing the practice for many days, the use of an empowered medicine All of the senses dissolve within something he should understand moment, if an introduction is given, we bum the support whenever we called nyongdrol which means them and disappear and for three before dying. He should ask to be then they will understand well. It have finisheddoin g the purification. liberation through tasting. It contains days it seems like there is no presence left alone for about a week before he will also remind them of the continued on page 3

MAY-JUNE 1993 ISSUE 21 Meeting of European Gakyils NAMKHAI NORBU RINPOCHE members but say that they can't afford to pay full subscription Teaching Programme because their incomes are too low. Mario Maglietti, on behalf of the Merigar Gakyil, clarified the Israel problem of membership fees in lower income countries by June 23 - 26, Jerusalem explaining that the Merigar Gakyil would be establishing a system of at "Mishkenot Shananin", "Place of the very quiet people" memberships costs related to the Fisher Hall. circumstances of each individual country. In these countries, 100% of June 27, University of Tel Aviv: the membership fees would be kept by the local Gakyil of that country in Tibet Day lecture on the Culture and History of Tibetfeaturing order to create a fund there which Prof. Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche could be used for the running costs For further information on the retreat and the conference of the local Community or for and hotel bookings contact: Noa Blass. Biltmore Street 15, particular projects such as buying 62194 Tel Aviv, Tel. 97 2 3457543. (photo Liane Graf) land, houses, etc. During the Easter retreat held at main Gar in Europe, or they can During the meeting, Rinpoche Merigar, members of the Gakyils of subscribe through their local Gaky il spoke about membership to the the European Communities met to in which case half of their Community in general saying that Thailand discuss various points that needed subscription fee goes to the local perhaps some people didn't clarifying related to membership in Gakyil and half to Merigar. The understand it very well. From the July I, Bangkok, Chulalongkom University the Dzog-chen Community. amount destined for Merigar helps beginning the idea of membership "An Introduction to Dzogchen" Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche was to maintain Merigar's centralised was to maintain the Community and present during the meeting and structures and services such as the create something concrete for the Merigar's Director, Mario Maglietti Gonpa, the central office, the future. He stressed the importance July 2-6, Hua Hin, Sailom Hotel was able to answer many of the Community library and The Mirror, of membership as a way to guarantee Dzogchen Seminar questions posed. all of which are services to the the continuation of the Dzog-chen For information contact Pierre Wittmann, P.O. Box 37, International Community. Mario explained that the. present Community and maintain the Hua Hin, 77110, Thailand. Tel. 1 212 3941 form of the three principal Gars of Several of the European Gakyils transmission. At the beginning he the Community, Tsegyalgar, said that the system of subscription had considered membership for all See page 4 for fuller details. Tashigar and Merigar, had worked very well even though they Gakyils in an International developed out of a long process had had their doubts about it initially. Community but after people had started years ago by Rinpoche, who They also found it an excellent way criticised his idea saying that a social Japan concluded, last spring, that since to help them launch their own organisation was not part of the many Communities had doubts projects such as buying Community teaching, he decided to apply the August 20 - 30, 1993 about his proposals for an property. membership system to three Gars International Community and Some of the problems raised where he could take responsibility. The retreat will take place at the ancient temple of Kouyasan, expressed criticism, that it would be centred round the financial side of He said that nobody was obliged to the main seat of the Japanese mantrayana or "Shingon" better to organise three main Gars membership. In some countriessuch become a member. For information contact Tsugiko Kiyohashi, 4-11-21-30 where Community people can take as Greece and Yugoslavia where He added that those who wished Shimomeguro, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, Japan. Tel. 03 37167248 out membership. financial conditions are not par with to participate in the Santi Maha His First letter about this to most of West Europe, it is very training must be members Tsegyalgar explained that this difficult for members to pay the of the Community because their organisation of the three Gars does normal membership fee. For membership shows their interest Tibetan Medicine Courses not mean that they have power or Community people in the many He realised that many people had no control over other Gakyils but have countries making up Eastern Europe, job and very little income and said been created for organisational this difficulty becomes an the main point was their interest and reasons. In the case of people living impossibility because of the participation in the Community. "In in Europe, if they wish to become extremely low living costs. Another Dzog-chen, we work with members of the Dzog-chen point raised was how to deal with circumstances", lie said, "and if one Community, they can either people in Western European really wants to do something, there subscribe directly to Merigar, as the countries who wish to become is always a possibility". The first weeklong course will be held at Merigar, Arci dosso (CR), in Italy from Saturday June 26th to Sunday July 4th. The course is part of a five-year study programme with an Helping the dead... still feel that they are a human; they the transference. introd uctory year. The programme which is structured in.recurring still have clarity and see everything. The last of the 49 days is called seminaries, will deal with all the principal material of the Tibetan continued from page 2 When they finally understand that lamten, which means showing or medical system taught by qualified teachers. Burning the support certainly they are dead, they suffer even more demonstrating the path. 49 days is During the course some hours will be dedicated to studying the doesn't mean burning the and for sometime they still have that considered to be more or less the fundamentals of the Tibetan language and general culture. consciousness of the dead person. experience and sensation of being normal length of the state of the The maximum number of participants accepted for the course One can't bum the consciousness human. This is because the traces of bardo of existence, and so on the will be 20. and the mind. The support represents our attachment are very strong. After 49th day they do as much practice as The registration fee is Lit. 600.000 which does not include their existence related to all their the firstwee k this starts to diminish possible inviting masters and accommodation and food. The Shang-Shung Institute has made attachments and concepts and we because there is another process of practitioners to participate. In an agreement with the Hotel Capenti which offers a daily rate per bum it reciting a mantra such as that death. This is why in that moment general this is what is done for the person of Lit. 60.000 for full board and Lit. 25.000 for of Vajrasattva. After we've done one has to do an introduction such as dead. accommodation and breakfast. this we do the transference reading the Bardo Thodrol or one It may be quite useful to Registration should be made to the Shang-Shung Institute, Via visualizing that their consciousness can do the phowa, etc., and if understand these things. degli Olmi 1,58031 Arcidosso (GR) Italy, before June 10th, 1993, transfers (to a pure dimension). We possible bum the support every In the Dzogchen Upadesa there ind icating the type of accomodation required. A receipt of payment can do that on the third day. week. is a particularly concerning of the Lit. 150.000 deposit should be sent with the request for Then, after the first week, on the InTibet we do this kind of practice death, and this tantra explains week registration. Payment may be effected by either postal order to seventh day after death, we bum a for the dead up to the 49th day by week what introduction, what the Institute or by bank draft to account no. 4122.96 at the support and do the transference follow ingdeath. Whensomeone dies practice and what purification must Arcidosso branch of the Monte dei Paschi di Siena. again, because on this day the in a family that is not completely be done. And certainly one day we Please bear in mind that since the number of participants is consciousness of the dead person penniless there will certainly be will learn that tantra. That could be limited, only the first requests for registration received will be undergoes another process of death some monks or practitioners there quite useful, because after birth, for taken into consideration; the others will have their deposit returned which diminishes his or her for 49 days doing the purification everybody there will eventually be to them. attachment and concept of where he . Every week they invite some death, and when one is alive it is For all further information, please contact the secretary of the or she came from. Because when a important master to do the always very important to understand Shang-Shung Institute from Monday to Saturday between the human beingdies, for example,they changchog for the purification and these things. hours of 10.00 and 13.00 at 0564 966940, or fax 0564 966846.

MAY-JUNE 1993 ISSUE 21 4 Australian Community launches land project Dzogchen in Thailand

Based on information published in site for the continuation of the next door although there is plenty of with Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche the April 1993 issue oftheDzogchen Dzogchen teachings in Australia. government assistance for installing Community of Australia Newsletter The parcel of land consists of a and using solar power. "An Introduction to Dzogchen" little over ISO acres situated on the The land will cost upward of Public Talk in Bangkok ': During the 1992 December south side of Mt. Dromedary, or $250,000, a considerable sum, but at the Chulalongkom University Dbarma Ctentiè :.. retreat with Namkhai Norbu Gulaga, a place of great spiritual all those who have seen the land feel Phyathai Road (West Side) Rinpoche, the energy was set in significance to the Aboriginal that the special nature of it will Thursday, July 1st, 1993 motion for the creation of a Gar in people. It is very close to the villages inspire people to overcome the Australia. It was said that the of Central Tilba and Tilba Tilba and financial hurdle. People are being Dzogchen Seminar in Hua Hin Australian Community had come of about fivehour s drive from Sydney, encouraged to go in groups to inspect . '• at the Sailom Hotel age and the time was right for the three from Canberra and eight from the land and plans are being made establishment of an independent :29 Petchkasern Highway (2,5 km South of Hua Hin) . Melbourne. The land is five minutes for the July practice retreat to be July 2nd-6th, 1993 place for retreat Rinpoche himself from the beach. held near Tilba Tilba to facilitate Tel. (66-32) 51 18 90/L Fax (66-32) 51 2047 stressed the need for land and many land viewing. Australian Community members felt The land has various thatRinpoche would be able to spend topographical features including One way to cover the cost is that Dzogchen Seminar in Hua Hin more time there if the Community eucalypt forests, large grassy fields, the land should be paid through had land. They agreed that a place a mountain area, large rocks, a donations and loans from individual Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche will give Dzogchen teachings every morning near the coast would be the best permanent'creek of very pure water, practitioners. In addition large fund and afternoon and the seminar program will include practice of tree ferns and other rain forest trees. raising activities will be undertaken During a short retreat on the south and the Dance of the Vajra. Registration will start at noon on July 2nd At the highest point on the land in the future. At present the at the Sailom Hotel and the teachings will begin at 4pm. Teachings and coast of New South Wales at Easter, there is a magnificent view out to Australian Community urgently members of the Land Committee practice will be held in the carpeted conference room of the Sailom Hotel sea and as far as the blue mountains needs to know who can give or lend which is situated on the beach. inspected a piece of land that they of the Bega-Eden area to the south. money to the proj ect, how much and The fee to cover the expenses involved is 1500 baht ($60 US) for the whole considered truly remarkable and under what conditions. Anyone who The land adjoins the Mt. seminar (or 300 baht per day) including lunch and afternoon coffee break. inspirational. They all agreed that can give financial help should Dromedary flora reserve which is a Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food w il 1 be served. Lodgings, breakfast this particular land, which is located contact: Patricia Chandler, 471 completely protected area. There is and evening meals will be at the expense of those who attend the seminar. near Central Tilba, is a very special Canning St, North Carlton 30054. plenty of flat land on which to build Monks and nuns are welcome to attend the seminar free of charge. Lodging piece of land and that it is a suitable Tel. 03 3880380. and there is electricity at the farm and food will be arranged to meet their needs. The Sailom Hotel is a first class hotel situated 2.5km south of Hua Hin in a quiet area on the 6km long white sand beach. The hotel also has a swimming pool and a tennis court The management of the hotel will give Dzogchen and Yantra Yoga in Germany a 60% discount on the rooms of the Sailom Hotel and of the Sirin Hotel to seminar participants. Price with discount per double room is 900 baht per The place was the same as for the night at the Sailom Hotel and 600 baht at the Sirin Hotel. Cheaper last course, an octagonal spacious accommodation is available in town in the guest houses. room, half open with glass and Children are welcome and child care may be provided during teaching offering a view of a wonderful sessions if requested. garden with trees and flowers, in the Full payment of 1500 baht or deposit of 500 baht is requested on middle of the city of Augsburg, registration. Please make payable to Pierre Wittman. which amazed some of the new guests. We also had time to exchange Information and registration to: Pierre Wittmann, PO box 37, Hua Hin news of the Easter retreat and 77110, Thailand. Tel. 0066 1 212 3941. Fax 0066 32 51 35 71. experiences of practice as well as just hanging out together at a pizze­ ria on Saturday evening. New Gakyils The meeting together also included the monthly German Greece: Blue: Sandra Svoronou, Liakos Evangelopoulos; Red: Katia Gakyil meeting on Thursday along Lytridou, Panayiotis Stambolis; Yellow: Nikos Toumbanos, Dimitris with some practice in the evening. Daskarolis Thè next open Gakyil meeting with Contact Address: Greek Dzogchen Community, P. O. Box 3240 group practice will probably take 10210 Athens. Tel. 01 2779112 (Panayiotis Stambolis) place at the end of June in the Nürnberg area and everybody is Finland: Blue: Jarme Vainio, Ilkka Tanner; Red: Marko Lenti, Antti invited. Tihverainen; Yellow: Kirsi Honkonen, Virpi Kananoja As coming together very much Secretary and "contact" address: Kaisa-Liisa Puonti, Visantie 19, 05400 helps people in their practice, Jokela. Tel. 358 14 472 818. Fax 358 0 147 286 (from September to May). by Gerd M anus eh second group of on Sunday. practice groups in Frankfurt, For the third time, Augsburg and Everybody was very content with Stuttgart and Augsburg will meet Beograd (ex Yugoslavia): Director: Veona Tomic these precious teachings, and felt weekly after Rinpoche's trip to Au­ the German Dzogchen Community Blue: Zoran Zargorcic ; Red: Jelena Zargorcic ; Yellow: Milica Stojanovic welcomed Fabio Andrico for a three that they were flowing through Fa- stria. A study group is being day Yantra Yoga course. After his bio Andrico directly from Namkhai considered which will try to establish two visits in spring and autumn of NorbuRinpoche himself. Thisheart- some knowledge of the basic last year, this was finally the most connection to Rinpoche was further programme of the Santi M aha ^EjTttlitQßt HOTEL TEAROOM RESTAURANT comprehensive set of explanations, deepened by practising together the Sangha. The book is currently being exercises and concrete practices of short Tun in remembrance of the translated into German and we also Run by two students of Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche Yantra. Easter Retreat practice sessions, and have a set of tapes of the Easter in the beautiful Belgium Ardennes After having introduced the com­ by watching the videos of the journey retreat of 1992 and of Christmas plete preliminaries of Tsigjong, to Kai lash and "A Around the 1992/93. What we lack and hope for splendid countryside Lungsang and Tsadul in the first World". in terms of Yantra Yoga is the new many sports activities weekend of 1992, Fabio went on to These rounded up a very comple­ book which, according to Fabio cosy family style hotel explain these again in the autumn of te and intense practice-retreat- Andrico, has nearly been translated comfortable rooms the same year along with working course-meeting, which was also and checked with Rinpoche. We lounge/bar, satellite TV on the first and second group of relaxing and joyful. The sparkling also discussed the matter of making varied gastronomy . humour of Fabio Andrico, his photos and drawings for the book terrace overlooking river During this recent long weekend, wonderful clear and direct guidance and we will look for a way to publish ample parking and garage the emphasis was placed on the and the joyful participation of about it in Germany. One idea was that of receptions, meetings, introduction to Yantra for beginners 15 practitioners made this weekend subscribing to the book. The other seminars and personal with some hints on very special. This was specially major hope is, of course, that retreats possible practices. This culminated in the underlined and supported by the Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche is going 1 to come to Germany soon, maybe in explanation and practice of the 8 wonderful sunny weather which Students of Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche 10% reduction Lungsang on Saturday and went on after a heavy thunderstorm on the 1994 as he mentioned as a possibility at Easter, and maybe even for a for the slightly more experienced arrival of Fabio, lighted up Hotel Ermitage 32, Rue de la Roche, B-6660 Houffalize, Belgium retreat practitioners with the first and everybody's mind and heart TeL and fax 32 61 288 140

MAY-JUNE 1993 ISSUE 21 5 New York Community Town Accepts Tsegyalgar Offer

creates practice packets that. After some four weeks of deliberating, the select board of the Town of Conway accepted our offer The New York Dzog Chen Community is in the process of creating a to buy the School, and has agreed to series of "Practice Packets". The idea is that many people receive work with us to resolve the transmissions from Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche at a retreat and then they get contingencies which were part of home and can't remember the tu ne or don't really know how to proceed with our offer. actually doing the practices. So the practice packets contain the materials to The Town Board was concerned help with that transition from the transmission to actually doing the practice that whoever bought the school and understanding what you are doing. should contribute to the town The attractive colored folders marked with a seed syllable contain: a finances. Given that we are tax lamented page size photograph of the principal deity, a tape of the practice exempt, we offered to make led by Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche, the text of the practice in Tibetan, payments in lieu of taxes based on phonetics, word by word translation, also a translation of the phrases, plus the sale price, with increases not to a written commentary on how to do the practice. exceed the consumer price index, and that to be capped at a negotiated amount. All non profit organizations in the Town of Conway make similar payments. The Conway Grammar School (photo John-Shane) At the moment, we have a period of three months in which to review by the Tsegyalgar Gakyil practitioners to view the building all contingencies which we need to We have some very good news. during the retreat, and such was the resolve, such as parking regulations, At the March retreat, we took enthusiasm of the response, that the presence of an oil tank, Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche to see many people pledged money to help regulations governing how many the old Conway Grammar School to buy the property. people can be accommodated in a building, which has been empty and The money pledged was not dormitory, and the capability of the on the market for two years. enough to buy the building outright, floor and roof structure of the annex Rinpoche was very enthusiastic and not enough to renovate the building in meeting the requirements about the possible uses for the building completely, but was for a clear span meeting-space. The building. It would be ideal for significant enough of a total to be Town is being very cooperative in holding winter retreats, for example, able to make an offer that was trying to meet these contingencies. when the weather doesn't permit us realistic, and would enable us to Now that the comitm ent has been to use the land in Buckland. It made, financial consid­ can house offices for the Dzog- erations have immediately chen Community. It can serve entered into play. For as a center for the development A New Office example, the oil tank needs of the Shang-Shung Institute The Tsegyalgar Community has opened a to be removed in order to see for Tibetan Studies, so we can new office in Shelburne Falls, upstairs at if any leakage has organise conferences and McCusker's Market - a small room with a contaminated the ground. courses on Tibetan Language view of the river and lots of sky. With the We have to bear the cost of and Medicine, here in the new office there is also a new phone with this, whereas the Town will USA. It can house an office an answering machine 413 625 6378 Any be responsible for cleaning for the Tibetan Village Fund offers of fax machines or modems will be up should any contamination and A.S.I.A. project. It can very welcome. have occurred. A land survey provide dormitory space for will also have to be carried people who visit Tsegyalgar for out at our expense, because this is in have some money to begin repairs. courses or practice together. It can our interests, rather than the Town's. Our offer was to pay $80,000 in house a Mandala for the Vajra total with $40,000 as a down At this point, we are confident Dance. payment, $20,000 in a year and a that all contingencies will be Rinpoche urged many of our half and the balance one year after resolved to our satisfaction. We have three months to come to resolution over them, but should we find agreement sooner, we will be able to Simhamukha (drawing by Felix Dawe) COMMUNITY WEEKEND close the transaction imediately. Tsegyalgar, June 19 - 20 This means that we have to come We have completed the "Guru Yoga of the White AH", (A dKar Lamai ' up with $40,000 on the day of rNal 'bhy or), the invocation of Garab Dorje which we chose as an auspicious closing. So far, we have collected Accomodations practice to begin with since Guru Yoga is at the base of all transmissions. only $18,000. Certainly, many Of course, many of the "locals" are more than happy to be your hosts for people have been waiting to find out the weekend, but if you'd rather, we will be reserving rooms at Stump The "Chod" packet is also ready and contains lamented phtographs if anything concrete was going to Sprouts for Friday and Saturday evening. If you can contribute to help happen before writing a check. o fboth Simhamukha and Machig Lapdron, a tape of the Chod practice lead defray these costs, great - if not, be our guest! by Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche, the Tibetan text, translation both word by Pledges are still coming in. We need to get the money not only to cover word under the Tibetan and phrases, phonetics, a one page phonetic version Activities and Schedule the down payment of $40,000, but and two commentaries. - Our Buckland retreat site and the Dark Retreat Cabin are also to cover the cost of renovating in need of some TL.C, maintenance and other projects which remain the building to the level where we We plan to follow with "Xitro", "", "Purification of the Six unfinished. Also we would love to start to clear out the Juniper Grove can move in an office, and basic Lokas" and all the Special Days Practices as funds become available. for the retreat cabins which Rinpoche has requested us to build there. living space for a building worker, The packets are available at wholesale prices for orders of ten or more, We'll start early on Saturday (9 am) so we can get lots done and still have all to the end of getting the place and retail for individuals; shipping costs will depend on the country they time for other things. Please bring whatever tools you can - carpentry ready for teaching and practice, in goto. tools, shovels, rakes, pruning shears, etc. order to benefit the whole Community, as soon as possible. The "Guru Yoga of the White AH" packet costs $20 retail and $13 Collective practice wholesale, and the "Chod" packet costs $25 retail and $ 18 wholesale. 15% Friday evening we' 11 do a collective practice: Guruyoga of White AH at If you feel that you can and wish should be added for shipping in the USA and Canada. Anyone interested in 7.30 pm at Rinpoche's cabin on the land. Saturday we can Dance on the to contribute in any way to this receiving them can order them from: Mandala in the late afternoon. On Sunday afternoon we will finish with project in terms of money, energy or a Ganapuja. ideas.your participation will bemore New York Dzog Chen Comunity, than welcome. 111 East 11th Street, Box 287 Costs and Arrangements New York, NY 10003. There won't be any charge for the weekend, but everyone will be Tsegyalgar Dzog-chen expected to contribute for the cost of meals, Ganapuja, etc. Community, P. O. Box 277, Checks should be made payable to the New York Dzog Chen Community. Please let us know as soon as possible when you will be coming Conway, MASS 01341, USA. TeL Payment should be made at the time of ordering. especially if you need a room. 413 625 9821. Fax 413 665 1142.

MAY-JUNE 1993 ISSUE 21 6 THE MERIGAR LIBRARY Rinpoche's new manuscript by Gaetani-Siedlecki As you already know, at Merigar Since the end of the Easter Retreat at Merigar, Namkhai Norbu there is a library mainly containing Rinpoche has been working on the design and accompanying commentary books on oriental studies, including for the realization of the painting of 'Du khang mThong grol Chen mo: a great many original Tibetan texts The Temple of the Great Liberation Through Seeing. What was anticipated and also a smaller number of books as a few notes to be left for the Gonpa painters to execute, has become an in western languages regarding Tibet extraordinary illuminated manuscript hill of beautiful calligraphy and and its neighbouring countries, photocopied reproductions of the Dzog-chen lineage Masters and Masters altogether about4500 volumes. The of the main Tibetan Buddhist schools, accompanied by brief biographies library is becoming an important for each. These reproductions will serve as a basis for the portraits to be reference point for many Tibetologists because of the quantity painted in the Gonpa, in a style not too overburdened but respecting the and quality of the Tibetan texts that iconographical characters of the Masters, according to tradition. Some of are stored there, as well as becoming the beautiful full color designs are already being enlarged and trans fered a place where one can deepen one's onto the Gonpa at Merigar. knowledge of all aspects of oriental One of the principles underlying the painting of the Gonpa is the cultures. It is therefore necessary to Liberation through Seeing (mthong grol). For that purpose, Rinpoche constantly increase the number of has written liberation mantras from one of Master Byang Cub Dorje's books of this library, in order to be terma in the pagpa script. able to satisfy as much as possible Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche working on the plan for decorating the Gonpa Now, for those local people and tourists who have come to include a the needs of scholars and those in the Merigar Library (photo Alex Stedlecki) trip to Merigar as a part of their Sunday "gita" or outing, Rinpoche has interested in studying these cultures. planted a positive cause into what otherwise would have remained for them, perhaps, merely a curiosity. It is above all important to increase publications regarding Asia in books, here is the list of the ones that the number of the texts that can be general and particularly Tibet, are still missing: accessible also to the non- Nepal, Buthan, India, Pakistan, Melvyn Goldstein- Tibetan- Tibetologist, i.e. of the books in Afghanistan, Iran, central Asia English Dictionary of Modern Coabit's recent plans western languages, that are still too (Turkmenistan, Kazakistan, etc.), Tibetan; - Essentials of Modern During the Easter retreat at Merigar, the Coabit building cooperative met scarce for a library of such range China, Japan and the south-eastern Literary Tibetan and prestige. to discuss a number of issues. Asian countries (Burma, Indonesia, Aurel Stein - On Ancient Central One of them concerned the cooperative's plan of about a year ago to To increase the number of books etc.). Asian Tracks organise an architectural competition for a "biohouse" to be built at of the library we mainly rely upon The publications can be Hitchcock and Jones - Spirit Merigar. During the year, Coabit searched for a sponsor to cover three kinds of assistance: periodicals or monographs (also in Possession in the Nepal Himalayas organisational costs of the project but without success. Instead the project native languages) on various aspects Theodore Stcherbatsky - Buddhist 1) Financial contributions from the will probably be launched in collaboration with the Istituto Nazionale di of oriental cultures (art, architecture, Logic (2 vol) Dzog-chen Community and its Bioarchitettura among the Italian and possibly the European schools of medicine, astrology, philosophy, associated bodies (Shang-Shung H. W. Bailey - Khotanese Buddhist architecture. Institute, Shang-Shung Editions, religion, yoga, etc.). The books can Texts A new development will be the cooperative's proposal to offer its ASIA, Coabit); be brought or sent to the following Daisetz Teitaro Suzuki - The services as a housing agency for members of Coabit This means that address (specifying the name of the Lanka va tara 2) Book exchanges with other members will be able to use this service for buying and selling houses in the donor): Edward Conze - The Large Sutra on libraries (whenever there are many Arc i dosso area, in Italy and. also abroad. copies of the same book or books Perfect Wisdom BIBLIOTECA DI MERIGAR, Another service which the cooperative intends to offer to members is that are not required by the library); Shashibhusan Dasgupta - Obscure 58031ARCJDOSSO (GR) - ITALY. consul tance in the fields of construction, restructuration, contracts, technical- 3) Individual gifts (in books or Religious Cults Besides the works on more economic analysis etc. money), that are, at the moment, the Garma C. Chang - A Treasury of general subjects, the library of Until now, members of Coabit had given an annual fee to the cooperative main source of increase. Mahayana Merigar needs some specialised for organisational costs, an amount which gave no financial benefits to Most of the books in the library publications that are fundamental Stephen Beyer - The Cult of Tara members. The cooperative now suggests that members can invest money in have been donated by Namkhai for studies on Tibet A partial list of Hugh Richardson - Adventures of a the cooperative as a "prestito sociale", a type of loan, which apart from Norbu Rinpoche himself, and some these works has been published in Tibetan Fighting Monk having an interest rate about 1 % higher than that of a bank, offers a tax by other practitioners from all over The Mirror, issue 18, and we have R. A. Stein - Tibetan Civilization deduction of only 12.5 % on the interest, as opposed to 30% for a bank. With the world. Therefore we hope that already received many donations. Sarat Chandra Das -Lhasa and a 7 day notice, funds can also be withdrawn. Moreover, on the basis of these such a generous influx of new books We would like to warmly thank Central Tibet "prestiti sociale", Coabit can ask for a bank loan for the social activities to Merigar's library will continue here those who donated to the library Jay Goldberg - Mo: the Tibetan which are planned. so that the library will grow more some of the books requested, that Divination System and more for the benefit of those are so important for studying and G. lucci -Rinchen Bzangpoand the who want to use it. deepening one's knowledge of Renaissance of in Tibet Coabit Real Estate Service Any kind of donation (even of Tibetan culture. G. Tucci - The Religions of Tibet just one book) will be very welcome, For those who are interested in B. Aziz and M. Kapstein - Soundings At the Members General Meeting in April it was decided to set up a real and above all donations of donating some of these specialised in Tibetan Civilization estate service for members of Coabit as announced in Leopoldo Sentinel li 's report. The main aim of the service is to promote, organise and articulate the commercialisation of real estate, house, land and apartments belonging to members of the cooperative and to help other interested members buy Welcoming Merigar's new Gekö property. The initiative is particularly interesting because it can make use of the by Rosa Maria Lo Schiavo would be the best guarantee of formation of cliques. Rinpoche also organisational structure of Coabit, the means of communication of the Clara Juliano is Merigar's new impartiality, and of attention to the asked for the collaboration of all International Dzog-chen Community and its widespread presence in many Gekö. All best wishes to her! needs and problems of those arriving Gakyil members on this point, countries of the world. AtMerigar'sEaster retreat, Clara from around the world. This would inviting them to collaborate both The Service is already active and its organisation is extending from the areas asked Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche mean that people wouldn't have to amongst themselves and with other close to Merigar, the seat of the Cooperative, to cities both in Italy and about her responsibilities. Rinpoche feel they were "guests" in a place practitioners. In Rinpoche's view, abroad and to other localities in the world where there are members of the replied that eleven years after the which is a home for every member Clara has the advantage of being Community who want to collaborate. inauguration of Merigar, this is the of the Community, and where familiar with the Italian law and the The first list of available properties is being prepared. This list will be first time that the running of the everyone's active participation is running of Merigar, having served continuously revised and increased by your proposals and information and "yellow house" and the buildings the life blood of the Community. on the Gakyil for two years. will be published in every issue of the Merigar Letter and The Mirror. and activities connected with it are Rinpoche also spoke of the per­ For Clara this post offers "a great Proposals to sell and buy will include detailed information and be classified being put into the hands of a sonal qualities a gekö should have, opportunity for practice, experience in different groups: up to Lit. 50 million, from Lit. 50 million to 100 million, practitioner from Italy. The fact that the importance ofbeing kind, patient and integration with difficulties". from 100 million to 150 million, and above 150 million. all the gekös up to now have hailed and welcoming, especially with She hopes that she will be able to Whoever would like to make use of this service but is not yet a member of from outside Italy was no accident. those coming to Merigar for the first repay the trust Rinpoche has shown Coabit can become one by asking for membership and paying the annual It reflected Rinpoche's wish that time. It is important for the gekö to in her, is commit ed to developing quota (Lit 150.000). each Gar should have an be able to come to terms with the the personal qualities required of The cost of the Service will, for the moment, be established individually international touch and be a point of many situations that crop up, being her and hopes that everyone will be until it is defined generally. reference for everyone. A foreigner kind but firm and not seeing the patient with her. She feels happy Requests and information from: who has already had the experience questions only in terms of oneself. It although she knows it won't be an Mario Maglietti, Coabit Merigar, 58031 Arcidosso GR, Italy. Tel. 0564 of coming to Merigar from abroad is especially important to avoid the easy job. 966322, fax 0564 968110.

MAY-JUNE 1993 ISSUE 21 7 Easter retreat at Merigar An international project for publications

by G Arca, J. Shane various aspects related to the mana­ any one of the three main Gars. With infinite gement of the material regarding In particular regarding new Chögyal Namkhai Norbu has for the teachings of Namkhai Norbu publications based on transcriptions years travelled around the world Rinpoche was given to John Shane of the teachings of Rinpoche, above transmitting and explaining the of the Blue Gakyil, Giovanni Area all those not destined for publishing precious Dzogchen teachings. He of Shang-Shung Edizioni and Adria­ houses of the Dzog-chen has always asked his students to be no Clemente, Tibetologist. Community and thus subject to less active in collaborating in the task of This article is intended to give checking, a specific authorisation preserving the teachings for. the fu­ the readers of The Mirror a little will be asked for from the local Gar ture, and many individuals and information on the project while a which will consult with Rinpoche groups have dedicated themselves detailed letter will soon be sent to himself. joyfully to fulfilling his vision, the various Gars and Gakyils. In this way, the checking of texts recording talks and transcribing the The principle underlying this and other material related to the resulting tapes. undertaking is our responsibility, as Teaching can be decentralised, We cannot predict what the Dzog-chen Community, to without the risk of blocking work conditions will prevail in the future, preserve, archive and check all and without the difficulties in (photo Liane Graf) but time does not stand still, and we material regarding the teaching of checking different foreign can only be certain that we should Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche. languages, problems which effected take the necessary steps to ensure The proj ect covers a large number the previous International by Adriano Clemente that Rinpoche's efforts and what of fields such as audio material, Publications Co mm ittee, which was During the Easter retreatMaster Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche gave teachings has been done by his students so far transcriptions, archiving, translation a phantom from the beginning. Thus and trans m iss ions principally related to the Dzogchen Longde and a m ethod are safeguarded for the future. and all types of publications there will need to be regular contact of practice for a Vajrasattva terma of Adzam Drugpa. including translations from Tibetan, between the Gars and the Gakyils in Before explaining the actual practice Rinpoche gave the empowerment To bring this about it is now transcriptions of the teachings, order to insure a continuity and an called Rigpai Tsal Wang, linked to the direct introduction to the state of necessary that the various Gars and practice books and publications updating of information. rigpa or instantaneous presence. At the same time he gave also the essential Gakyils of the Dzogchen intended for wider circulatioa body, voice and mind initiations of Nondzog Gyelpo, Simhamukha and Community make a coordinated Once a person has been confirm ed Guru Dragpo. During the following days he explained the method of the effort between them to establish a The Gars and Gakyils around the in his or her post on the International Four Da of the Dzogchen Longde Series, together with some specific coherent program, which requires world should coordinate their Publications Committee in any practices to balance the condition of one's elements and progress in the forming of a committee to activities and delegate one person country, they should be in contact practice. implement iL (or two or, at the outside, three) with with the Committee people in other We have named this committee the necessary requirements to take countries so that they can exchange He then transmitted a practice of Vajrasattva very similar to ÛieShitro of the International Publishing responsibility to work out the task their opinions, ideas, etc., In this Mingyur Done, explaining in particular some methods to help a dead Committee. of checking publications. In way a "real" International person He also gave the lung of the practices of Mandarava, of the Chad, particular, these people should have Publications Committee will be of a Simhamukha practice that is a gonter of Ayu Khandro and particularly The committee will be made up a good knowledge of the Tibetan formed which, in close collaboration of a method of Transference, or Phowa, whose origin is a terma of of representatives from all the language, experience in the Dzog­ with the local Blue Gakyils will also Changchub Done linked to the practice of Shitro, and explained all of them. Gakyils of the Dzogchen Community worldwide, and the chen teaching and a good knowledge establish and implement guidelines During the teachings he stressed many times the importance of the state three principal Gars will serve as of the national language. governing the future transcription, of rigpa as a fundamental point to continue and of the night practice as a focal points for its activities. During publication and preservation of new means to mantain one's presence, without falling into a condition of apathy The nam es of the people who are the course of a meeting at Merigar, material, with particular reference or confusion regarding the multitude of Tantric and Dzogchen methods that able to satisfy these three presided over by Namkhai Norbu to ensuring the quality and accuracy are used within the Community. requirements must be Rinpoche, the responsibility of communicated to Namkhai Norbu of publications, monitoring drawing up a basic project for all the Rinpoche for his approval through copyrights, etc. Scinti Mafia Sangha Study Group at Merigar Meeting of Yantra Yoga Teachers

The Gakyil of Merigar is organizing a Santi Maha Sangha study practice retreats that group that will meet on alternate weekends at Merigar beginning in July will be held in all Gars 1993, to study and practise on the basis of Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche's annually so as to book, The Wish Fulfilling Vase" which explains the foundation level deepen their of Santi Maha Sangha. The book has eleven chapters and the course will knowledge of this involve the study of one chapter every other weekend. teaching. There will be an afternoon session on the relevant Saturdays at 5 p.m. Another point that and a morning session on the Sundays at 10 a.m. was discussed The course, which will involve practice (including some Y antra regarded a possible Yoga) as well as study, will enable those that follow it to prepare "teachers' themselves for the examination that will d eterni ine whether they will be association". eligible to enter the first level of Santi Maha Sangha training which Rinpoche, Rinpoche has promised to teach next year. however, said that at For further information, please contact Cicci D'Arista at Merigar at the moment there 0564 966837 or 966322. weren't enough qualified teachers to make it worthwhile. It is important New Merigar Gakyil 1993-94 though that those who know more about On April 17th, during the Easter retreat at Merigar, the following people Yantra Yoga and have were elected for the new Gakyil and other duties: Y antra Yoga course at Merigar (photo Prima Mai) been teaching for a Director: Mario Maglietti long time keep in touch Vice-Director: Silvana Pisani by Laura Evangelisti someone to teach, and anyone with anyone who has just started Blue Gakyil: Mario Maglietti, Carlos Ramos, John Shane During the Easter retreat at wanting to teach should first have teaching so as to clear up doubts and Red Gakyil: Paolo Pagni, Giorgio Minuzzo, Giancarlo Aleotti (Frank) Merigar there was a meeting of his permission; help deepen their knowledge. Yellow Gakyil: Enrico dell'Angelo, Gualtiero Bosio, Silvana Pisani Yantra Yoga teachers. Some points 2. the Blue Gakyil must be Yantra Yoga activities at Merigar Gekö: Clara Juliano arose that required clarification. informed about any Yantra Yoga are being coordinated by Laura Secretarles: Nina Robinson, Lucia Sblendorio, Cicci D'Arista When we asked Rinpoche his course that is going to be held, and Evangelisti and any enquiries can Commission for the work of decorating the Gonpa: Isabel Wagner, Franco opinion after the meeting, he said he will co-ordinate the financial side be sent to her at Merigar. Branca, Andreas Harming, Claudio Maritano was in agreement on the following on the basis of the circumstances; The dates of the Yantra Yoga In charge of the Capannone: Bruno Celli points: 3. teachers are expected to retreats will be announced as soon In charge of the Gonpa: Franco Branca 1. only the Master can authorize participate in the Yantra Yoga as they have been fixed.

MAY-JUNE 1993 ISSUE 21 8 Tashigar in Argentina opens membership

to serve for personal retreats as well. Dzogchen Community, you can send The Gakyil of Tashigar is your application form to Tashigar. composed of people from all over So far the Gar has been sustained by the country: Tandil, Buenos Aires, donations from benefactors La Rioja and Cordoba. The including Rinpoche himself and by Argentine Dzogchen Comunity is the monthly contributions of the very new,butas itgrows, slowly but members. steadily, we are open to people from Your membership at Tashigar all over the world to share this will be a great help as it will support wonderful land that Rinpoche has not only the maintainance of the generously given to the Dzogchen many facilities there, but will also Comuni ty with us. allow the Gar to develop more and The Gar has everything you need more for the future: we want to to practice, and the people here have publish books in Spanish, connect a their own style to welcome you as pipeline for drinkable water, fix the their best friend. There aren't too main kitchen for cooking during many fules here. retreats, measure the land and You can come any time and use improve the boundaries map. We the facilities; during the weekends are also thinking about some long the Community from Cordoba come term projects such as public dorms, for dancing, working, reading and, personal retreat cabins and even a once a month, we have a national gonpa. gakyil weekend meeting. We are opening membership for Come and enjoy and practise with subscriptions and we'll be glad to us. We always find a reason to have receive yours. fun. May this auspicious land bear If you are thinking about marry fruits, and allow the teachings The main house in Tashigar (photo Prima Mai) becoming a member of the to prosper for the benefit of all.

Tashigar is one of three will find a big white house pool, but some people prefer the international Gars, including surrounded by a park of eucaliptus, natural pools or waterfalls near the Tsegyalgar in the USA and Merigar pine and fruit trees, among which Gar. in Italy, where one can take out five-color prayer flags move with A little further away are the public of ficai membership to the the wind. bathrooms with cold and hot water International Dzog-chen The upper part of the house is and lavatories. The camping ground Community. This current re­ Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche's has grills, light and one can set a tent organisation of the Community has residence; the middle floor stands under the shade of fruit trees. Across been undertaken with the scope ofa s a restaurant; in summer we also the little bridges that span two creeks creating a solid foundation for the use the terrace over the park. The (when itrains) we have a"quincho", future. lower floor is the guests' house, in a hall that can fit perhaps 200 people front of the mandala. When it is not and where Rinpoche teaches. Tashigar in Argentina is situated rainy or too cold we dance there, During Rinpoche's last visit we at the foot of a mountain chain called otherwise we use the mandala under had the great fortune to have Jim, "The Gigantics", 60 km from the "quincho" where the teachings Ernie, Joe and Verne from Cordoba and 6 km from Tanti, a were held during the last retreat. Tsegyalgar to repair part of the roof small town where one is able to buy In front of the main house is the of the main house, and concretize necessities, make phone calls, send gekö' s house and the nursery, where the immensely meritorious work of a letter, stay in a hotel, or go dancing. the children play and keep their toy s, building a dark retreat house. It is When you arrive at Tashigar you books, etc. There is a swimming ready to be used now, and it is meant The "quincho" (courtesy of Marisa Alonso)

Conditions to become a member of Tashigar

TASHIGAR COMUNIDAD DZOGCHEN These are basically the same as in Merigar and Tsegyalgar'. Those who Asociación Civil sin fines de lucro wish to become members can request either a "preliminary" or a "full" membership card. Those who have been involved with the Dzogchen Community for at least three years and have attended at least three retreats APPLICATION FORM would request "full" membership while those who have not yet been involved for that period of time would request a "preliminary" membership. Name Both "preliminary" and "full" members can choose to become either "basic" or "sustaining" members. The cost of annual membership is: Address City Full Sustaining $450 Full Basic $200 Country Preliminary Sustaining $450 Preliminary Basic $200 Telephone Fax Benefits Date of birth For the sustaining member: Passport number Cost of retreats will be free if the entire membership fees are paid for the current year Please send two passport photos 30% discount on any activity organised by Tashigar 20% discount on books Payment Monthly • Bimonthly • Semiannual • Annual • Free lodging at Tashigar except during retreats Free subscription to The Mirror You can send an International Money Order to the name of Comunidad Dzogchen, c/o Marisa Alonso, Rioja 131,5000 Cordoba, Argentina For the basic member: or a bank draft to Caja de Ahorros, acct.no;. 5690356-025 Citibank, c/o Ruben Garcia. 30% discount on cost of retreats When making tranference, please inform Tashigar with a photocopy of the receipt. 20% discount on any activities organised by Tashigar 10% discount on books Date Signature Free lodgin g at Tashigar except during retreats

MAY-JUNE 1993 ISSUE 21 9 The Tempie of the Creai Liberation Through Seeing

Giovanni Arca asked Chögyal manifestations, it can be an Giovanni: Will there be designs more questions? door of the Gonpa. Namkhai Norbu a few questions advantage. that are western? Giovanni: Yes, yes. The decoration about his ongoing project to deco­ Another reason is that the Rinpoche: There won't be any is in fact related to the cardinal points Giovanni: Is there a precise rate the Gonpa at Merigar. decorations are not just any specifically Western designs but - north, south, east, west in some relationship between colour and decorations but are (spiritually many of the people who are doing aspects. What importance do these form and the cardinal points? Giovanni Area: Speaking the painting are Westerners. It's points have? Rinpoche: Yes, there is. In general, about the Gonpa... not only Tibetan painters who Rinpoche: In general there are eight in som e thing such as a mandai a there Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche: are doing the work, and so the cardinal points which are governed are directions which are related to What is a Gonpa? (Giovanni way it is done will be integrated, by eight types of beings related to particular colours but we can't work laughs) Is that what you were rather than just being a copy of the Eight Classes. So the Eight at that level w ith colours in the Gonpa going to ask (laughing)? traditional Tibetandesigns. The Classes can represent the directions otherwise it will become a little In Tibetan, "gonpa" means Gonpa itself is like that of any thing in which we find unbalanced. The colours have to go "silent place" or "place of ourselves. In any place we are a little everywhere but the principle silence" where one can stay in Giovanni: So this means that surrounded by a dimension and that is more related to mantra and the tranquility and where one can even if the end result will be dimension is always related to the colour of the mantra which is do the practice. This is the real very Tibetan, it won't be like eight directions. Sometimes we say specifically related to the directions original meaning of the word something that you could find ten directions which includes above and that is not so for all decorations. "gonpa". in Tibet. and below. But when we consider But then lately "gonpa" has Rinpoche: No, itwon't That's the form ofa mandala there are eight Giovanni: There are two different transformed a little into the how it is. directions, and for this reason I've scripts that will be used for the place where people meet, tried to design the decoration of the decoration. where we apply the practice Giovanni: Have you always Gonpa so that everything Rinpoche: Yes. One of them is an and where common activities had this idea of decorating the corresponds very precisely to this, ancient script which was take place. related) designs and mantras. Gonpa or is it an idea that has using things like the syllables of the used in Tibet in the ancient past and Sometimes "gonpa" is also called Mantras are said to place a cause for gradually developed? Eight Classes which we find in each which the Tibetans still use. And the "dukhong". This is its real name. liberation through the six functions Rinpoche: Even before it was built of these directions. other is a though not "Du" means a "place to meet" and of the senses. Therefore, we will put I had an idea of what the form and Then outside the mandala, outside an ordinary one. It's called "square "khong" means a "room", so a all the principal mantras, all those colour of the Gonpa should be like. the Gonpa, all around there will be script". It was created by a Sakyapa "room for spiritual meeting". This that come from the original tan tras, many designs, above all mantras master, called Phagspa who is a "gonpa". on the ceiling. In addition, in the Giovanni: I remember a called "Thong-drol" so that those became the master of the Emperor. practice there are various types of conversation many years ago in who see them will be liberated. He invented this script originally Certainly when the Gonpa is painted Giovanni: But considering that we transformations that we use in the which you said that you didn't want for the Mongolians who used it are the Dzog-chen Community, what Anuyoga system. These the Gonpa to be officially for a hundred do you yourself consider that the manifestations will also be painted overburdened with years during the time of Gonpa at Merigar represents? there and this can be useful for those different things. That Emperors of the Yuan Rinpoche: In my vision, from the who are doing the practice in order you didn't want to do dynasty. In general it's very beginning, I have always seen to have a precise idea of the form of what other Tibetans not very convenient to the Gonpa as a place where we meet, the transformation. sometimes do and put use and they returned to where people and practitioners of In addition all around above the too many things in there. using the Yuguri script the Community practise and windows we will try to represent all Your idea was to have a This was the origin of undertake spiritual activities the figures of the Masters principally space with an image of this script It is easy to together. Whether it is practice or of the Dzogchen Semde, Longde use for decoration. teachings, this is the place where all and Upadesa, from the beginning of su spend ed in the middle. that is necessary to undertake the lineage with Samantabadra right Rinpoche: We wanted Giovanni: What about spiritual activities can be done. This up to our own times. This means to have a statue in the the figures? is the function of the Gonpa. that all these considerations and the centre but since the Rinpoche: There will fact that the teaching is related to a Gonpa was built as a be various kinds of Giovanni: What is the meaning of transmissionwhichhas been handed much larger structure figures, including the decorating the Gonpa? down from ancient times to today than previously manifestations of the Rin poche: There are many different will be represented in the designs evisaged, that wasn't various and for meanings. First of all when a place that we choose for the structure. possible. the reason that it will The artistic character of the drawings has been decorated and it becomes At first I thought that it easierto visualize them. will not only be Oriental, Tibetan beautiful, it influences the people would be a bit smaller. Then the lineage of the and Mongolian, but, since we are in who are inside it; in general their But it's still true that we masters. There will also the West, it will integrate everything. mood becomes more cheerful and have not filled the be some astrological they feel better. If a person stays in Gonpa up with an altar and statues it will become beautiful and many designs outside the Gonpa in a grey, sad place, that person may Giovanni: I didn't understand that all over the place. That's not at all people w ill com e to visit it as tourists. particular directions in order to feel a little sad. So this is a relative last point very well. Integrated into our intention. They willcome to enjoy themselves harmonize with the force of nature thing. the Western world? but at the same time it may have and the force of the domina tors of Furthermore, when we consider the Rinpoche: Not only Western Giovanni: So you don't think we some benefit and put a good cause. nature. These will be symbols and in practice, everything including the designs but, but to a certain extent, will do that? We will also put certain types of a certain sense mantra and . colour and form are represented as a all the various types of designs will Rinpoche: No, we will only paint mantras that if som eone passes under symbol of energy, so if one has to be integrated. Principally there will the structure as I have indicated. them, they will be'purified and a Giovanni: Thank you, Rinpoche. integrate (with this) and there is a be traditional designs related to the good cause will be created for them. place where one can see all these teachings, tantrism, and so on. Rinpoche: Haven't you got any These mantras will be put over every Merigar, May Utk. 1993

MAY-JUNE 1993 ISSUE 21 10 Theravada and Dzog-chen

by Laurence Mills

In this short article I want to western practitioners could be with difficulty organised by rules our egotistical complications Still the general idea of the whole touch upon some similarities and monks (as I was for a while), in fact may be recognized from the somehow practitioners have to live teaching is to extend mindfulness contrasts between the Thervada hardly any of them are, due to the conditions found in lay Buddhist with others' similar troubles. In the into all activities and not just to be found in South and South-East Asia teaching that special modes of life society in all Theravada countries. Dzog-chen Community to help us aware while 'meditating*. This is and Dzog-chen as preserved in Tibet. with the rules that govern them often Maybe people need to be inspired on our way through these samsaric sure to remind Dzog-chen Although these two manifestations become a spiritual obstruction by more than rules in order to lead a tangles we have these two practitioners of the many times they of the outwardly appear instead of a support for practice. spiritual life. considerations: our all-the-time have heard our Master suggesting different in many ways, a close practice of instant ways of integrating our experience examination reveals many aspects presence and with instant presence. which are similar. remembrance of our Perhaps it is worth remarking I write ofTheravada having spent samaya. that within the Theravada way of more than thirty years as a monk in All kinds of Buddhists practice - precepts, mindfulness, that tradition, with fifteen years of seem to be prone to meditation and loving-kindness, all experienceofitsmonasteries inAsia. interpret 'practice' leading to insight (vipassana)- there My Dzog-chen knowledge by (patipatti/pratipatti) as is a tendency for people to develop contrast is limited to the last three activities like sitting in a kind of ' seriousness' or even ' qua- years, and three retreats with meditation or specific si-holiness' which would certainly Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche. Here I kinds of mindful activity be disavowed in Dzog-chen where a shall confine myself to a few topics performed during sense of humour and a lack of heavy where it appears that useful and valid specified periods of time - controlling tendencies is highly comparisons may be made, morning meditation, valued. Maybe the contrast can be beginning with the subject of going on retreat, etc. accounted for by the predominance transmission. Dzog-chen practitioners of monastic practice in Theravada Dzog-chen practitioners know have a word for such while very few Dzog-chen how important this is in their own activities limited by time Community members find tradition as well as in the Tantric and place: Tun, a Tibetan themselves in monasteries, but path generally. If we compare this word meaning a limited maybe the difference should be with Theravada a surprising fact period. Our limited ideas sought in the Dzog-chen emphasis emerges: there is no word in Pali to that only this kind of on spontaneity rather than control express the concept of transmission. activity constitutes by rules. There are words like vamsa meaning 'practice' are countered The last matter to be considered a "lineage" of teachers and pupils both in Theravada and here is realisation, the final goal in for instance, but this word is not Dzog-chen by the Theravada being the arahat (worthy used in the sense of transmission. exhortations of living one) who, with the extinguishing of Yet plainly, if we are familiar with teachers who encourage all greed, hatred and delusion the accounts of the Buddha us to extend our experiences the full flavour of mindfulness or instant Shakyamuni's first teaching, the M udrà of Teaching (drawing by Felix Dawe) freedom and finally at death the Turning of the Wheel of Dharma, presence into every ineffable Nibbana or Nirvana. activity. Theravadins may addressed to the five ascetics who Monks and nuns always have Dzog-chen teaching offers a great Arahats are described as those who remember that the ancient would become the first Buddhist teachers from the time of their contrast: there are no rules to be have attained the highest of several "Satipatthana Sutta" (the Sutra on monks, something happened, was ordination, until they themselves, adhered to, no moral com­ stages on the Path and almost without the Establishment of Mindfulness) transmitted, for the Buddha due to learning practice and perhaps mandments or even recommendat­ exception they are monks or nuns. says: exclaimed "Kondanna has known, realisation, also become teachers. ions. However serious practitioners They may, or may not, possess Kondanna has truly known". What That time when they are pupils is would soon discover that there are "A monk going forwardandback various powers or siddhi, and while did he know? "Whatever has the not just a time of learning some natural limits to their activities, is fully aware; looking they continue to live they "abide for nature to arise, all that has the nature intellectually about what the apart from those imposed by the forward and back is fully aware; the good and happiness of the to cease", in other words a scriptures say, but a period when laws of the land. bending and stretching, multitude". Theravada conceptions penetrating insight into the they practice with and serve their With the latter limitations one carrying robes and bowl, he is of Nirvana avoid the two extremes impermanance of all conditioned teachers in many ways. By doing so must work as a citizen of a particular fully aware; eating, of existence after death things, i Obviously the mere they come to know their teachers country at a particular time, our drinking, chewing and savouring, (=eternalism) and non-existence enumerations of the Four Noble very well, developing a strong experience of samsara, but with the passing excrement and (=annihilationism) so that one Truths found in this discourse could connection through them to the form er one must use instant presence urine, he is fully aware; walking, cannot properly speak of an Arahat not be responsible for this profound living dharma. Serving one's teacher - awareness - mindfulness, as a standing, sitting, falling returning. Indeed, they are said to experience, for if it were so then all with mind, speech and body as well natural restraining agent. There is asleep and waking up, he is fully be at the end of the round of . Buddhists by now would have as living harmoniously with fellow- no need to think a Of course, they experienced this insight, sermons monks obviously bears comparison mass of conflicting have' not on the Four Noble Truths being with the vajra-kinship among Dzog­ thoughts about 'I undertaken any common enough! The Buddha Theravada stages of insight and Path and Fruit chen practitioners. Though the want to....' but 'I Bodhisattva Vows though possessed the maximum former is monastic while the latter is shouldn't becauseof moments mark this way as gradual, first this is and so do not have impact on his listeners. Kondanna, not necessarily so, in both cases one this or that his first disciple, was thus experienced and then that. Eventually in this life has strong connections with teachers precept...' or Tmust motivation to cooperating with his teacher's mind and fellow-practitioners. not because it's bad if one is diligent, or in some distant life in the return to any world and so came to have that insight So or evil'. If one has and there save while there is no precise term for In Theravada practice generally future if one is a real sluggard in samsara, one much emphasis is placed upon presence then one sentient beings. transmission in Theravada, it does not fall into or will attain the goal. Dzog-chen by contrast is certainly existed and may still do so. keeping certain categories of moral This is all rather rules. Thus lay people are create situations non-gradual and does not depict realisation as different from There are many stories told of involving conflict. disciples, both monastic and lay, encouraged to undertake and keep occurring stage by stage. realisation in a to the Five Precepts, or Eight The stronger this Dzog-chen sense in who experienced breakthrough natural presence insights while listening intently to Precepts on special days. Novice which nothing has monks (semanera) abide by Ten becomes the more harmonious is aware; speaking and to be extinguished or got rid of - no all-night teachings in the forest one's life and environment monasteries of Northeast Thailand. Precepts while fully ordained remaining silent, he is fully defilements have to be subdued Bhikkhus keep 227 precepts (250or There is also the consideration of aware". because each thought may be Of course Theravada places more more in Tibetan tradition), and samaya, one's commitment to a As this discourse was addressed liberated as it arises through emphasis on accepting the monk's Bhikkhunis, now absent from certain tradition of teaching, the to monks a long time ago it does presence. Greedy, hateful and life in order to experience insight, Theravada lands, have a grand total teachers in it, and ones fellow omit quite a number of activities deluded thoughts need not be while lay life is viewed as a of 311 Precepts. Many of these practitioners. Tantric literature which occur in everyday life, and in renounced but rather require distracting obstruction. This is in precepts are obsolete as the generally, and our Master our own times, for instance, presence comprehension of their void nature. contrast to Dzog-chen for the conditions which gave rise to their particularly, often stress the dire while driving on a freeway, Of course, anyone who has entered practice of which no particular formulation are no longer found, or results which will occur from awareness when dancing, or the samaya by obtaining the lifestyle is recommended. While occur very rarely. That morality is breaking one's samaya. With all mindfulness during sexual contact. continued on page 15

MAY-JUNE 1993 ISSUE 21 11 One-pointedness of practice and painting

Nickolai Dudka, a young thanka thinking that an arm or leg is painted seeing and hearing him on his first painter living in Buryatia, has strangely and that in the West we visit to Buryatia to give a retreat last recently arrived at Merigar to paint it differently. Do you consider summer. How did the Buryatian participate in Chögyal Namkhai that it's important to keep the lineage community go ahead in this interim Norbu s project of decorating the of traditional thanka painting and period? Gonpa. He spoke to The Mirror not to start putting in different types Nickolai: Before Rinpoche's visit about his work and life in the ex- of things. we received various practice books USSR. Nickolai: I think it's extremely and one on yantra yoga and we important to continue with the practised without empowerment or The Mirror: How did you become lineage which has been received permission. Butitreally worked and interested in painting thankas? from masters. It's extremely the practices united us and later we Nickolai: When I first arrived in important not to change anything in founded our community. We loved Buryatia from the Ukraine in 1986, thankas because they are a form to practise. I was looking for the Buddhist path which, in the past, was seen in this In 1991 Fabio Andrico visited St. because Buryatia is considered to way, in a particular colour, with a Petersburg and a few people from be the main place in Russia where particular dress, and so on. I think Buryatia met him. He gave a few Buddhism is still alive. I received it's a real mistake, in the 20th talks about Dzogchen and it was initiation from the local there century, to make something very essential for us to understand and one of them in particular, different. Of course now we can do more precisely. And all thistimewe Dharma Dodi Lama. I also saw many modern thankas according to, for tried to be in contact with Westerners beautiful Buddhist decorations in example, the vision of Rinpoche. to ask for books and materials on the the temple and I thought that I m ight teaching. The great event for us was be able to do something like that I The Mirror: How did you have Rinpoche's visit to Buryatia last ha.d already studied Western style your first contact with Dzogchen summer. Many people already knew painting and I had a good teaching and Namkhai Norbu a little about the teachings and so it background in painting, colours, and Rinpoche? was not like meeting him for the preparing for painting but I didn't Nickolai: About 3 or 4 years ago we first time because people already know anything about thanka received one of Rinpoche's books knew about teaching and so they painting. called "Talks in Conway". It was understood him from the beginning, My teachers in Buryatia gave me a like the world opened through this immediately. lot of theoretical knowledge about book. Before I had practised tantric thanka painting. For example, Buddhism in Buryatian style and I The Mirror: Now that the political Dharma Dodi Lama taught me how Nickolai at work at the Merigar Gonpa (photo Alex Stedlecki) did not find it so complete. The situation has changed in Buryatia, to prepare the background, which masters would explain part of a are there any obstacles to religious kind of glue to use and so on. or are they more in Buryatian style? connecting Dzog-chen teachings practice but not give a complete practice or is there complete Nickolai: They are more in and thanka painting - to do it as one. explanation as Rinpoche does. That freedom? The Mirror: What do you mean - traditional Tibetan style. I like to These old thank as are, for me, is why all of us in Buryatia have Nickolai: Now there are no kind of glue? How is glue involved use bright colours and from the very examples of how to do this. found Dzogchen to be a complete problems. You can do what you in painting thankas? beginning I've tried to leamTibetan teaching for the whole state of a want But it's not like freedom, it's Nickolai: That's my secret! I don't style such as that used at Labran, the The Mirror: In India, I've been person and like a gateway to go like a fountain. In business, in know about Italy but in Russia it's great monastery in central Tibet, told that they also do politics, and religion not very easy to find different kinds and the style of eastern Tibet. this special practice everything is free and of glue. The most common type of Sometimes, some of the lamas in called "the opening of perhaps people are glue used for Buryatian and Buryatia have criticised my thankas the eyes". When the losing control. They Mongolian thankas is made from because they are not pure Buryatian. thanka is almost think they can do what animal skins or fish. Glue is required completed.theyaddthe they want. Of course for preparing the background of a The Mirror: Is there still a tradition eyes and then they it's much easier to thanka and a painter mixes glue and in Buryatia today of making colours authenticate it, which develop ourselves chalk and perhaps a drop of honey from stones or minerals? means that from that now. A few years ago for this preparation. Glue is also Nickolai: It's very expensive and moment the deity when I arrived in a used to m ix with the colours to make heavy work to produce mineral resides in the thanka. Buddhist datsan them stronger. colours and today in Mongolia in Nickolai: You (monastery), the local particular, painters use modern remember Namkhai people regarded me The Mirror: You studied with one colours including chemical ones. For Norbu Rinpoche either as a madman or lama in particular? example, they use guache from explained that there are a KGB agent. Nobody Nickolai: Yes.DharmaDodiLama. Holland and Russian water colours, a few days in a year, wanted to believe that He is very old, he was born in 1899 but in the past these were not perhaps only one, when I went there to find and studied thanka painting in his available and so people made colours an artist should prepare Buddha. Now every­ youth. He gave me theoretical from minerals. I have heard a thanka and he should thing has changed and teaching about how to paint thankas researchers say that at the beginning "open the eyes" of this at the local dots an there but he never actually showed me of this century, some Buryatian and deity on the same day. are many students both how to do it and this is why after this Mongolian thanka painters used This is according to Buryatian and Russian theoretical knowledge I tried to do mineral colours and even Chinese Kriya tarira. who are studying research to find out how to actually makeup for painting! The main idea Tibetan language, sutras, tantras and paint a thanka. I tried to see as many of thanka painting is to use what The Mirror: Do you many and so on. thankas as possible and last year I materials are available. combine practice with worked restoring thankas at the the thanka that you are museum in Ulan-Ude. The museum The Mirror: Do you think there is working on? The Mirror Is there contains many fine old thankas from any value in restoring old thankas? Nickolai: I try to do any message that you all of Buryatia and this was useful Nickolai: For me it is very this all the time when would like tocomuni ­ for my study. interesting and helpful. First of all to I'm working, to cate through The Detail from one of Nickolai's thankas (Dtsambalai Last year while I was in Mongolia I see what was depicted in the old combine myself and Mirror? took a course with Mongol ian artists thanka. I feel many things when I my practice, visualisation, from samsara. Rinpoche has Nickolai: I would like to say what a and it was really great. The work on restoring an old thanka. For concentration and maybe I recite explained everything and now it's great help The Mirror is. Buryatia is Mongolian painters have studied me the main idea is that a painter mantras, in this way my practice and extremely easy to understand what so faraway fromRinpoch e and other painting in the West and on their creates a thanka while in a kind of painting are both combined in one he wants to teach us and give us and practitioners and this is our only return put their knowledge into meditation because the lines, the point. how we can move on this path. means of communication with you, traditional Mongolian painting. form and the colours are so beautiful. the only way we can receive some This is what I feel when I touch an The Mirror: Here in the West, The Mirror: There was a period of information about what is happe­ The Mirror: Are your thankas old thanka and this is the way I try to some people have the idea of putting three or four years between reading ning in the Dzogchen world. painted in traditional Tibetan style continue my painting process personal things into the thankas, Rinpoche's teachings and actually Merigar, May 4th, 1993

MAY-JUNE 1993 ISSUE 21 12 A Bodhisattva in border lands by Elio Guarisco

Mount Kanchenjunga, the third duration of His Holiness' visit, the subject to speculation. It is asserted highest peak in the world, is believed Sikkimese Government prohibited to contain all teachings found in to be the main seat of the god the butchering of animals and selling other tantras and to present within Vaisravana, the guardian of the of meat throughout the state as a its outer, inner, and alternative levels, northern direction and the lord of sign of respect for him and for the a system of spiritual development wealth. The name Kanchenjunga teaching being given. based on the parallels and relations (gangs chen mdzod Inga) means The gave the between the outer world, the inner 'The Five Snow Mountain transmission for Guru Rinpoche's human body, and the secret tantric Treasures' because it is said that mantra and reminded people of the practices. The Dalai Lama pointed here Vaisravanahasstored fivekinds important role that outstanding out that the presentation on of treasures: gold, silver, gems, master played in the propagation of primordial awareness found in the grain, and holy scriptures. According the Buddhas 's doctrine in Tibet. seventh chapter of "The Condensed to legend, this mountain played a "Especially in these circumstances TantraofKalachakra"resemblesthe significant role in the introduction in which we have lost the presentation found in the Dzog-chen of Buddhism to Sikkim. When the independence of our country, it is system. The tantra also Lha btsunnam 'kha 'jig med important to recite his mantra" he presents a unique tantric path in (born in 1597 A.D.) left Samye in said. He stressed emphatically the which one actualizes the union of Tibet for Sikkim accompanied by need for mutual understanding empty form and bliss. This is fifteen disciples, a goose came flying between the various schools of accomplished through gradually from the direction of Sikkim and His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama in order to stacking, one on top of the other, the landed at his feet It is believed that transcend the fetters of attachment 'drops' of vital essence within the central energy and mind-pathway, the goose was an emanation of the develop the area, resulting in a sort crowding. The Government of to one's own view and rejection of simultaneously exhausting the mountain god of Kanchenjunga who of small Switzerland of the Sikkim also provided several camps others' view. He spoke at length of particles of matter within the body. described to him the way to the land Himalayas. Nowadays, people are for pilgrims coming from other the need to study the teachings of For this reason, this tantra rejects he was aiming for. Lha btsun nam better off materially, but are not regions of India and from Tibet. The other Tibetan schools, for a Gelugpa consort practice as a final means to 'kha 'jig med (along with Kathok necessarily more content. security checks at the Sikkim border to learn the teachings and Rigzin Chenpo and Ngadag Sempa attain the goal of Mahamudra. This Buddhism was introduced to were tight and people without valid vice versa, as this will open the Chenpo) opened the power place of tantra speaks of unmovable or Sikkim in 1975. Many monasteries papers were turned back. This was mind to wider perspectives. Sikkim, which is considered to be immutable bliss as a bliss that is of the Nyingma school were built probably to avoid problems related When giving the actual one of the eighthidden valleys where superior to the unborn bliss taught and for a time the doctrine flourished. to the recent dispute over the empowerment of Kalachakra, the Padmasambhava concealed sacred in the other tantras. Thus, a strong Today, one has the impression that recognition of the seventeenth Dalai Lama spent considerable time teachings for future generations. Rig emphasis is m ade on the retention of the monasteries are, for the most , Dro Dui TrinleDorje: the explaining the contemplations 'dzin rgod Idam, the famous terton, the vital essence, and on other types part, empty and are maintained only Dalai Lama had approved this necessary for receiving the is said to have discovered an image of puritanical behaviour, such as not as tourist attractions. The few poorly recognition, as had the oracle of of Padmasambhava's wrathful form empowerment and then performed drinking alcohol and so forth, which educated monks who gather there who was consulted at the (Guru Dragpo) from the peak of the various phases of the gives the impression that once or twice a year for special request of the Sikkim ese this mountain. the Kalachakra tantra has celebrations actually live in the Government who sought borrowed not only some villages below and are happily certainty on the matter. The southern gate to the Sikkim terminology from the married and performing their There are still a few valley, constituted by the Darjeeling Hindu philosophies, but services for the living and the dead. Tibetans in Sikkim who area, is said to be guarded by a btsan also their puritanical Fortunately, there are exceptions: do not acknowledge the named dge bsnyen bTsan rgod rdor attitude. Just because of the Rumtek monastery, the seat of the authenticity of Dro Dui rje, riding a blue "wind-horse" and specificity of its present­ Karmapa, and Dzog-chenpa Do Trinle Dorje, the son of a holding a lance and a snare. An ation, it is therefore difficult Drup Chen's Nyingma monastery, family of nomads of entrance to the valley situated to understand why the both of which accommodate large Eastern Tibet, as the true outside the present border of Sikkim Kalachakra gained somuch monastic communities. Both, incarnation of the and close to the Indian town of popularity, primarily in the however, are founded and sixteenth Karmapa. Siliguri (near the ruins of the ancient second phase of the propag­ administrated by Tibetans. Buddhist monastery of Jagaddala Within the stadium, a ation of Buddhism inTibet. found in Bangladesh) is guarded by Of the many places throughout glass palace was erected yet another gate-keeper: he is Sikkim made sacred by the presence to house the coloured sand The Kalachakra is also believed to be an emanation of of Guru Rinpoche, Tashi Ding is mandala of Kalachakra. connected with the mystic Mahakala, dresssed in flaming black considered to be especially blessed. On a terrace outside, country of and silk; in his right hand, he holds a It was àt this mountain grove that seated smiling on a throne, its kings. In the cosmology sandalwood club, and with the left, His Holiness the Dalai Lama stayed the Dalai Lama delivered presented in this tantra, time he lifts to his mouth a skull-cup for the First days ofhis visit to Sikkim. his teaching; he usually in our world system is filled with blood. His domain is the Arriving on the 24th of March, His started the teaching distinguished into four eras gate to the direct route to the valley Holiness remained here in retreat, session well before the (of completeness, three- that follows the Teesta River, performing 100,000 ganachakra scheduled time. The quarters, two-quarters, and winding between mountains. (ritual feast offerings). This was the explanation of Santideva's The empowerment itself without conflict). The era of completeness is Modern Gangtok, Sikkim's quiet prelude to a programme of Bodhisattva's Way of Life was a allowing much time for translations re-established in a cyclic pattern by capital, offers the pilgrim a place teachings and empowerments "bzhad lung" type, that is to say, the into English and Nepali. the kings of Shambhala or their quite different from the enchanting graciously given by His Holiness reading of the text with an The Kalachakra Tantra (Wheel descendants on the twelve land image of a sacred valley of Guru over the course of a week in a valley explanation of the points the teacher of Time Tantra) is one of the latest masses of our world system by Rinpoche. The so-called cement city still brilliant with an ancient glory. considers appropriate for the tantras to appear in India. It was defeating the irreligious barbarians. is filled with Japanese cars and His Holiness had been invited by circumstances. In effect, the Dalai taught by the Buddha at the stupa of Only twenty-five kings of affluent tourists. At one time a well- the state minister, Shri Bandhari, Lama both elucidated those points Danyakataka in south India at the Shambhala are mentioned with travelled business route to the Roof and various Buddhist associations he considered understandable by the request of , the king of specific names in the Kalachakra of the World, Sikkim has suffered to give the empowerment of majority, and also summarized with Shambhala. After returning to his literature; the names of the other isolation after the northern border Kalachakra introduced by three days his usual clarity the contents of the country, Suchandra made the descendants are unspecified. The was closed following the Chinese of teachings on Santideva's various chapters, satisfying both the Kalachakra teachings the official twenty-fifth king of Shambhala will invasion of Tibet. Once a Buddhist Bodhisattva s Way of Life. well and the less educated. His words religion. It is said that the tantra of ascend the throne in 2327 A.D., and were uplifting, stressing simple but in the ninetieth year of his reign, he monarchy, Sikkim was "annexed" For this grand occasion, the Palj or Kalachakra has been practised and most beneficial truths: the need to will wage a war from Shambhala, to India by skilful Indian politicians Stadium, situated right in the heart preserved in that country eversince. develop the basic goodness hidden defeat the barbarians, re-establish and the army about thirty years ago of Gangtdk, was transformed into Various Indian in all of us, to co-operate with other the era of completeness, and spread in order to secure an important an open-air auditorium to travelled to Shambhala and brought human beings, and to show kindness the teachings of Buddhism and the segment of the border facing China. accommodate about seventy the tantra of Kalachakra to India to all creatures. His own compassion Kalachakra tantra. To placate the resentment of the thousand devotees and curious where itspread widely. It was finally was obvious in his willingness to sit local population over losing their passers-by. The event was well- introduced to Tibet in 1027, gaining Some people see in this re- and teach for hours in order to inspire independence, Sikkim was granted organized, considering that it took much popularity. establishment of the supremacy of the minds of the listeners to engender a privileged status: the Indian place in India. The stadium was Why the Kalachakra tantra spirituality over materialistic love and altruism. For the entire governement directed funds to divided into smaller sections to avoid became so popular is a question continued on page 15

MAY-JUNE 1993 ISSUE 21 13 BOOKS LN BRIEF

Cultivating a Daily repetitions of subjects and an overly minds and in their own hearts, where the great Hindu devotional poet, general exposition. This, however, Tibet can be found shining like the Mira-Bai. Written in the 15th Meditation may be due to the audience that sun as a place of compassion and century, these poems and this poet centuries ago renounced Buddhism wisdom. are legendary even today. Mira by Dalai Lama XIV in favour of a religion more rooted Tibetan children who are in worshipped (The Dark- Library of Tibetan Works and in traditions and customs and highly schools that provide an education One) as her Ishta-Devata (personal Archives, 1991. based on belief. that includes both the Tibetan deity or in Tibetan) and 150 pages; $4.95 (paperback) The booklet however allows the language and English will no doubt through her one-pointed devotion usual clarity and compassion of the be able to enjoy and benefit from achieved realization. author to transpire unshaded. reading this story in the two Her poems are records of this Elio Guarisco languages in which it is told, and the realization and the path of love, in book will encourage them in their the Hindu Tantra, which led to it. studies. This volume includes 24 poems Most western children, on the ox podas, from 100 poems positively other hand, will probably be attributed to the poet, and400poem s Where is Tibet? somewhat bemused by the Tibetan possibly attributed to her. The script and the transliteration original manuscript, recorded by her A Story in Tibetan and English accompanying it, perhaps enjoying scribe and companion, Laiita, was them as an exotic addition to an lost in a Moslem invasion of north Written and illustrated by interesting story that will certainly India in the 17th century. Gina H alpern stimulate further questions and answers in the reading. that it is now available again, re­ Snow Lion Publications, My breath, my breath, Should the reader really be printed in paperback by Arkana, an New York, 1991. . Hari, interested in learning Tibetan, imprint of Penguin Books at £7.99 $ 12.95 (paperback) my shelter, Hari however, the text of the book will be (pounds sterling). Penguin has world-wide distribution, so you can found to be made up of simple but I saw the illusion, order it from your local bookseller. useful phrases and vocabulary that I saw the will be most helpful. Three-worlds, The book has also been published Children's books like this have in German by Diederichs Verlag, in This book is a selection of talks an important secondary function in You alone can please, Japanese published by Hozokan, in on Buddhist view, meditation and the possibilities they offer of gently Italian published by Ubaldini Edito­ action given by the Dalai Lama raising the general level of awareness Mira says, re, in four Russian Samizdat during April 1985 and Octoberl986 of the existence of Tibet and the I'm yours, versions, and is shortly to be to an audience of Indians. value contained in its culture, don't forget. published in French. His Holiness speaks in a creating positive causes for the fu­ Rinpoche's other book terminology moulded by his ture. DZOGCHEN: THE SELF- thorough training in Buddhist John Shane PERFECTED STATE*, edited by philosophy and yet is clear and Adriano Clemente, is also published nonconventi onal on various subjects THE CRYSTAL by Penguin Arkana, and is currently related to the totality of the Buddhist available. teaching. Starting with defining the Dedicato allo Scuro AND THE WAY OF general viewpoints that differentiate To the Dark-One the Doctrine Of the Enlightened One LIGHT from others, he then presents the Illustrated with bright paintings Mira-Bai phenomenological and in lively colours, "Where isTlibet?" Translated from the Middle-Hindi psychological concept of mind and is a children's tale told in two NEW EDITION by Louise Landes-Levi the spiritual path in terms of the languages, Tibetan and English, Translated from the English by Rita conventional and ultimate reality. whose intention is both to remind For over a year now we have Degli Esposti Plunging into the heart of the Tibetan children in exile of their been receiving reports that Super-Nova Editions, Venice, Italy, meditation of the Universal Way as homeland and its culture, and to Rinpoche's book'THE CRYSTAL 1993. traditionally cultivated in Tibet, His introduce that same culture and AND THE WAY OF LIGHT, Holiness briefly explains the "Eight homeland toyoung western readers. 91pages, Lire 10.000 (paperback) Su tra, Tan tra and Dzogchen, The Verses for training the mind" The book introduces us to Tashi and Teachings of Namkhai Norbu', composed by the Kadampa master Pema, two Tibetan children living edited by John Shane, was Langri Thangpo and a tantric in India, who ask their parents where unavailable in bookshops. It had in meditation centred around Buddha Tibet is, but who are not satisfied fact proved to be a very popular Sakyamuni, Avalokitsesvara, that they havereceived a real answer book, and had sold out its second Vajrapani, Manjushri and Tara. when they are just shown a location editioa We are very happy to be To indicate the importance he on a map. They want to know why able to inform all those who have attributes to the training of the mind Tibet is a special place. been looking for a copy of the book in altruism and compassion, the Their father in the story then leads Dalai Lama says that after receiving them into the realm of their the teaching on the "Eight Verses", imaginations, showing them the he has recited and contemplated their magical beings that dwell in the meaning daily for more than thirty- land of the snows, and explaining five years. that Tibet is a land of peace. Santi Maha Sangha He deepens his presentation by This spurs the children to search explaining in detail the four truths for Tibet themselves, and they look The first volume of the series 'Santi Maha Sangha'. written of suffering etc. and the twelve links everywhere, under the yak, under by Chogyal Namkhai Norbu has been published in Italian by of dependent arising of cyclic the horse and so on, without finding Shang-Shung Edizioni. John Shane has just finished the existence and the application of the what they are looking for, until they This volume is translated from principles in actual meditation on find a man seated under a tree, a the original English into Italian with English translation and the French, German and Spanish taking and developing the Buddhist monk in maroon robes, a ten page introduction, five page versions are in preparation. spirit of Enlightenment etc. whom we recognise as His Holiness glossary, one page bibliography and This first volume regards the base of Santi Maha Sangha and Each section of the book ends the Dalai Lama. 24 poems printed in facing English is a very interesting book for anybody who is interested in with questions and answers, where Smiling broadly, he holds the and Italian texts. Samples of spirituality and Buddhist culture. the questions are much like those an moon and stars in his hand, and the Devanagari (the script ip which educated Indian would make to a moon suggests they ask him where Braja-Bhasa or Middle-Hindi is The Italian version plus postage and packing is available by guru. Tibet is. written) originals and diacritic sending $28 US to Shang-Shung Edizioni, Merigar, 58031 The book has all the limitations When the children do so he notation are included. Arcidosso GR, Italy. of transcribed lectures with advises them to look in their own An unusual tri-lingual edition of

MAY-JUNE 1993 ISSUE 21 14 Reflections Reflections Reflections

happy person". The idea is that if our relationships with others. When rests on the individual to work on really Lhasa. Tantric practice whatever aspect of themselves is we can see ourselves within the unblocking their own energy. This Waking up is a pleasant surprise. Impact on a psychology generating pain and suffering could context of personalities developed of course has a very positive impact Pilgrims and street sweepers begin be removed, then pain and suffering around the five passions related to on the relationship. Through very early in the morning and smoke practice would be gone forever. They do not the Buddha Families, we can projection each individual wants to columns of perfumed herbs rise high see that there is much to learn by understand how we make choices change aspects of their partners that in the night sky ; the herbs are burned I have had the extraordinary accepting their pain (neurosis) as based on those passions. We can they are convinced are the roots of in the main square and on the rooves experience of observing how the human and that the experience can come to understand and accept the suffering in the relationship, but of the old town houses. study and practice of Tantra and be transformed into wisdom energy. neurotic and the wisdom aspects of within the framework of working The whispering sound of prayers Vaj ray ana has impacted my clinical The trap is in the view, "I am each passion and from that with the Buddha Families this is no can be heard fromal l the hotel rooms. psychology practice. The teachings suffering, therefore some part of me awareness make clearer choices longer a viable view. Since 1985, the Yak Hotel, the and the experiences related to daily is bad", "If I can remove the bad part about how to interact with the world In my therapeutic work I do not Snowland, the Kirey and the practice have affected my ability to then I will be good". around us. As humans we swim see myself as a teacher of Tantra or Balanksho Hotels have been guide a person to see and experience Through not reconciling around in samsara, often times blind of Dzogchen. The experience is welcoming travellers with their for themselves the neurotic and experiences of jealousy, anger, to the darker more shadowy aspects muchmore of the light of the practice beautiful terraces and gardens. The wisdom aspects found in the five greed, seduction and lethargy with of our humanness (neurosis). The shining through me and into the rooms are decorated with colourful Buddha Families. I have worked the wisdom aspects, they are concept of good/bad and the desire therapeutic relationship. paintings, decorated columns and with people as they transformed unaware of how to know their natu­ to only see ourselves in the most I make every effort to retain the wooden furniture with its traditional neurotic behaviours and depressive re as humans. They are blind to their positive of lights keeps us ignorant therapeutic relationship. I do make Tibetan designs. symptoms into an active and own nature and style of being in the of the full range of an em otion. Love attempts to amplify an individual's There are many places to visit. A engaged relationship to the world world. turns to power and then to violence spiritual needs so that they can see few temples inside the old town, and around them. At first this did not What I found myself doing in the in its more neurotic and possessive them and make choices to pursue Drepung and Sera monasteries can occur with a conscious effort. In therapeutic relationship was to teach form. Tantra provides a means to them, whatever they may be. Now be reached by bicycle; Ganden and subtle ways I began to notice that in very simple ways what I had transform possessiveness and the that I am more aware of the practice the site of H. H. Karmapa can be my relationship with my clients had discovered regarding transformation attachment to desire that results in and how it impacts my work as a reached by car. They all leave the changed. They were expressing an aspects of the five Buddha Families. confusion and suffering. psychologist I would very much visitor full of surprised enthusiasm. increased satisfaction and ease with About four years ago I came to When an individual in therapy like to be in contact with other All the Tibetan monks and nuns living. Individuals that I have been learn of Tantra, Dzogchen and the learns that they do not have to deny therapists who found that the Tantra are very open towards their guests working with for some time made teachings of Namkhai Norbu parts of themselves, but can learn to and Dzogchen teachings have and besides all the centuriesof works major leaps forward in their ability Rinpoche through a two week in­ accept those parts and use them to appeared in their work with and prayers, they always offer a to cope with current life stressors. It tensive retreat on B ali with Tsu 1 trim benefit themselves and their individuals. warm cup of butter tea and blessed wasn't until I was in conversation A11 ione. Prior to this I had attempted relationships with others, a true Please write to me: Susan LaGrande, strings of silk. with another psychologist, who was to learn about Tantra but it never brightness appears, as if a ton of 2550 Denali Street, Suite 1306, The market around the main not a practitioner, that I became "clicked". During this retreat weight has lifted off their shoulders. Anchorage, Alaska 99503 USA temple is visited at least once a day aware of how my actions in the Tsultrim had us utilize western An excitement that they can be meeting new friends and buying therapeutic relationship had psychology techniques to come face themselves and the authority of their presents for old ones. It is easy to changed. I realized that I was no to face with the neurotic aspects of lives result in marked reduction in make friendswit h Tibetans and this longer approaching the therapeutic the five passions. She then led us depressive symptoms. I work with means entering their family life for relationship in the same way as my through experiencing those neurotic couples focusing on each of the Travelling an unforgettable meal and exchange colleague. aspects transform. The impact was partners' Buddha family of small meaningful gifts. Through western psychology an stunning. When I became aware of "affiliation". Theblockedorneurotic today in Lhasa The Tibetan Hospital is worth individual seeks a cure for emotional what I was doing in my psychology aspect is addressed. The other part­ visiting. The thanka room can be practice, I began to use consciously ner of course is very able to help "illness". Psychotherapy tends to be Now it is possibile to reach Lhasa opened for the interested visitor and some of the techniques I learned at uncover these aspects. The wisdom. viewed .with the belief that - from Nepal with organized groups, they will offer you the new edition the retreat I have come to develop aspects are presented and then the psychological distress and emotional from Chengdu by China Air, from of the book with all the pictures and some of my own based on my partner and the individual can really pain can be ended by removing Golmud by public bus (after a visit explanations. experience as a psychologist, on appreciate the strengths of each of unwanted aspects of the self. Initial to CITS for permission). When you are in Lhasa, try to additional readings, retreats with their personalities. It has been visits often begin with an opening No matter which way you choose "smell" like a Tibetan, study their Rinpoche, and as a fruit of my own particularly helpful for partners to statement expressing a desire to be to go, the high plateau's special way of walking and tune up with rid of some unwanted aspects of the practice. The results are very learn to see and love their partner for their whispering shouting rhythm; dramatic. What I have come to who they are. atmosphere makes everyone's head self or a desire to forget some painful dizzy, breathing becomes difficult it's the only way to avoid the anger experience. "If only I stopped being understand is that without awareness It also helps to understand what of their dogs and become good the unconscious contents are and for some time after arrival, big angry", or "If I could stop being happens for their partner under stress eyed travellers find it hard to walk friends with the neighbourhood dependent on others", or "If I could expressed as projections. Those when energy gets blocked and guardians. projections tend to slant and obscure straight. A long night's sleep is forget the abuse, then I could be a neurotic. The.responsibility clearly necessary before realizing this is Paola Davico

Published bi-monthly, The Mirror brings you the teachings of Chögy al Namkhai "Monasteries in Tibet" Fund Norbu, news, views and information from Dzog-chen Communities around the We have received a letter from Rena Kuhn telling us about the world, interviews, reviews, Tibet-related topics, retreat programmes and the commitment she has undertaken to help Tibetan people in Tibet calendar of practices for the international Dzog-chen Community. after her recent trip there. In particular she feels that much assistance is needed to improve the general condition of the monks and for the safe reconstruction of the monasteries in Tibet. Funds would also go to the projects of reconstruction in Tibet that have been organized by Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche. THE MIRROR To help raise these funds which will be distributed among all schools of Tibetan Buddhism, Rena Kuhn has set up a charity raffle The newspaper of the international Dzog-chen Community with many beautiful prizes some of which have been donated by important Tibetan spiritual masters. The tickets will be sold at $50 Name US each and will be mailed as soon as payment is received. Tickets Address can also be bought on an installment plan basis or by a group. Donations from outside the US should be sent in the form of dollar Town Post code travellers cheques sent by registered mail. Payment can be sent to: Country Rena Kuhn (M.I. T. Fund), 256 S. Robertson Blvd., Suite 9379, Beverly Hills, CA 90211, U5.A. Annual subscription: $35 U.S. outside Europe or Lit. 40.000 within Europe. Send "We must all help to preserve the original power places of Tibet. cheque or money order to: The Mirror, Merigar, 58031 Arcidosso GR, Italy. Your donation will accumulate much merit for yourself."

MAY-JUNE 1993 ISSUE 21 15 A Bodhisattva in... Kalu Rinpoche to match and even them, demonstrating in the process surpass his predecessor's activity, a formidable power of the intellect, International Dzog-chen Contacts continued from page 12 the young Rinpoche made three full an all-embracing openness of mind, barbarianism by the hands of the prostrations to him and then tried to and an untiring enthusiasm. ARGENTINA ITALY SLOVENIA kings of Shambhala, the reason for reach up to His Holiness with open A day later, the Dalai Lama Comunidad Dzog-cben Merigar Changchub Santi Mana the popularity of the Kalachakra arms. His attendant lifted him up to visited the Tibetan community in Paseo Colon 1131 2°11 Comunità Dzog-chen Sangha 1063 Buenos Aires Arcidosso, 58031 GR PO Box 19 tantra. It is, however, hard to accept the height of the Dalai Lama to Darjeeling and gave a short public Tel 1 7821722 Tel 564 966837 SL-62250 Poetovio such an interpretation because of receive his hand blessing. The Dalai address us ing simple words and clear Fax 1 3612746 Fax 564 968110 Fax 62 29874 the mythical nature of Shambhala Lama expressed words of exposition to make the principles of and its kings. The presentation of amazement, saying: "Look! How the teaching understandable to Dzog-chen Communita Azamgar SOUTH AFRICA the twelve land masses that auspicious is what he has just done". everyone. Smiling and looking at c/o Hugo Aníbal Palacio Giuliano Casiraghi Darryl Van Blerk constitute our world, where in cycles Addressing his translator, he everyone in the audience as he spoke, Espagna 883, Via Pignolo 17 11 Upper Rose St. the kings of Shambhala repristina te instructed: "Make sure you translate he explained the faults of 7000 Tandil 24121 Bergamo BG Newlanda, 7700 the golden ages, obviously what I have just said. This is indeed materialistic orientation in life, how 293 20034 Tel 35 225159 Capetown contradicts the way our world is auspicious". this did not lead to happiness. This Tel 21 641908 Tashigar JAPAN perceived and ascertained by modern While having lunch at Kalu is because suffering and science. Without such a basis, the dissatisfaction are intimately linked Patricia Feldman Tsugiko Kiyohashi SPAIN Rinpoche's house, the Dalai Lama Mariano Moreno 382 4-11-21-30 Shimomeguro Esta barici Curro whole legend of Shambhala and its to aspects of the mind. The mind is advised Bokar Rinpoche (Kalu 5000 Cordoba Meguro-Ku Tokyo Ronda General Mitre kings does not withstand close Rinpoche's successor in the Shangpa not a compact whole, but is Tel & fax 51 226845 Tel 3 37167248 162-7E1A examination in terms of its validity; lineage) on the education of composed of many aspects. To 08006 Barcelona however, we cannot negate that the the young . "He must receive reorient the mind means to overcome AUSTRALIA LATVIA Tel 3 4173590 legend may have spiritual and the teachings and empowerments those aspects of the mind that lead to Herbert Jelinek Dzog-chen Community Fax 3 87904679 mystical implications. that the previous one received and dissatisfaction and develop those 31/3 Plowman Street Tadajku Str. 8/1 N7 that lead to well-being and Bondi, NSW 2026 Riga LV-1004 Latvia SWITZERLAND If one cannot prove the superiority should study within all the Tibetan happiness. That this can be done is Tel 304297 Tel 132 623259 Aline Winterberg of this tantra over others or show its schools. Then in the course of time, proved by the education we undergo Fax 4698828040 Schwarzenburgstr. 6 special purpose, it may be asked he will decide what he wants to do. in society: when beginning school, AUSTRIA 3007 Bern why the Dalai Lama confers this When he is a little older, I will take one is ignorant of marry things. This Isabella Ernst LITHUANIA Tel 31 460651 •particular empowerment so often, care of him. But you should not Brunnengasse 34/12 Dor je ling un-knowing is an aspect of the mind in a setting where most people think I will make him a Gelugpa!" 1160 Vienna 2001 P.O. Box 1183 TAIWAN RO.C that will decrease during the learning attending will not be able to practise As a conclusion to his visit to the Tel 222 408 30 16 Vilnius, Lithuania Mr. CH. Yen process. At the end of the educational such a highly sophisticated tantric monastery of Kalu Rinpoche, His 4th Floor N° 333 process, the un-knowing is reduced system. For an outsider, it would Holiness delivered a concise BURYATIA MALAYSIA Lung Kiang Road and knowledge developed. In the seem that the Kalachakra discourse to the assembled group Rangdrol Gar Tham Wye Min Taipei same way, unwholesome factors of empowerments serve as occasions and then departed for Darjeeling. c/o Parida Malikova 8669C Klebang Kechil the mind can be reduced simply by 26, Tayozhanaya St. 75200 Melaka USA to bring together Tibetans arid At the Dali Monastery of developing the wholesome ones Novokizhinginsk Tel 6 356162 Tsegyalgar various Himalayan ethnic groups of Drukchen Rinpoche, His Holiness until the former are totaly absent. In Buryatia 671454 Dzog-chen Community Buddhist faith, to revive their interest performed the consecration this way. His Holiness, without Kwok Kee Chang PO Box 277 in their own religion, and to put into ceremony of the new temple and for mentioning the actual words, Alexander Viaznikovtsev 11 -A Jalan Jujor, 1/5 Conway, Mass. 01341 practice its highly valuable Karl Marx Blvd. 9-26 Taman, Bakti Ampang Tel 413 6259820 three days taught the "Manjusri- actually explained the four truths. principles. In this perspective, the nama-sangiti-Tantra" (Chanting the Ulan-Ude Buryatia Selangor, W. Malaysia Fax 413 6651142 Dalai Lama's activities are names of Manjusri). The "Manjusri- On the morning of April 12th, the Tel. 30 122 30902 Tel 039847167 Dzog-chen Community exemplary, caring for not only the nama-sangiti" is one of the earliest Dala i Lam a began his return journey DENMARK NEPAL West Coast Tibetan people but also for all the tan tras to come to light in India. It is to Delhi. Proceeding in a car escorted Himalayan populations. The Dalai Community Dzog-chen Ian Baker 755 Euclid Ave. cryptic and difficult to understand; by police, local authorities, and c/o Jens Rasmusscn S.I.T. Box 1373 Berkeley, CA 94708 Lama concluded the event with a it is, however, the source of many entourage, he reach Sonada. The Pilegard Alle 5 Kathmandu Tel 510 559 9753 longevity empowerment from the tantric teachings and can be young tulku of Kalu Rinpoche was 2770 Kastrup Tel 1 413948 Fax 510 524 0933 Secret Visions of the Fifth Dalai commented on from the point of waiting on the road with marry others 032 521840; Lama related to the three deities of view of different tan tras, , to bid farewell to HisHoliness. When Fax 31 878609 NEW ZEALAND Lidian K Watson long life. After that, a ceremony to Kalachakra, etc. The Dalai Lama the Dalai Lama saw the small tulku, Rosemary Friend Rt 4 Box 16 M request his Holiness to live a long taughta commentary to the "Sangjti" he had the car stop. With a smile of FINLAND 32 Leckhampton Court Santa Fe, N.M. 87501 life was performed following a rimai written by Gendun Gyatso, the warmth and affection, he squeezed Kai sa Iii sa Puonti Dunedin , S. Island Tel 505 9885995 rich in Dzog-chen language. The second Dalai Lama, mentioning that the young boy's face between his Visante 19 Tel 3 4556462 05400 Jokela Tsultrim Allione next morning, the Dalai Lama left he had received the transmission of hands and then moved on. TclT4 472818 Mario Franchini 227 Old Mill Rd. Sikkim; the visit of such a this text from the late Dilgo bodhisattva will certainly leave a 8/148 Howe St. Valley Cottage, Khyentse. On the first day, he gave FRANCE Freemans Bay, Auckland NY 10989 trace on the land and the people for the actual teachings; on the second Theravada and... Dominique Espaze Tel 9 765774 Tel 914 2683050 years to come. and third days, the Dalai Lama gave 3 rue des Nancttes Fax 914 2684280 The next stop in the area was the reading transmission of the continued from page 10 75011 Paris NORWAY Sonada. There to receive him was commentary, stopping at a few transmission may find the way to do Tel & fax 1 43381895 Gordon Cranmer . Susan Indien the three-year-old reincarnation of points to make some personal this - the rare spiritual genius would 4157 Utstein Kloster 129 Kaelepulu Drive GERMANY Tel 4 514705 Kailua, Hawaii 96734 Kalu Rinpoche. Entering the main remarks on iL notneed to do even this much, but as Stephanie Wagner Tel 808 2613469 temple of the monastery, His The teaching His Holiness gave most of us do not fall into this Gartenstrasse 70 POLAND Fax 808 5244342 Holiness first consecrated the gilded on the "Sangiti" was highly category the transmission is 67000 Frankfurt Aleksander Skwara stupa containing the mummified enlightening; drawing from different important. By anyone, limiting Tel 69 618721 Grunwaldzka 40 VENEZUELA body of the previous Kalu Rinpoche. texts, traditions, and philosophies, ourselves to human considerations, 91-337 Lodz Pablo Lau Rivera Then from his throne, he performed he gave a remarkable picture of the is meant any person leading any GREAT BRITAIN Tel 48 42 516080 Pb. A Res. Pedernales the ceremony of cutting a tuft of the essence and scope of the tan tras and kind of lifestyle which will not Annie S tratton Av. Paez Montai ban II young Rinpoche's hair and giving in particular of the Kalachakra. He increase negative secondary causes 11 Ridge Rd. Hornsey RUSSIA 1021 Caracas him a name, Tenzin Karma covered m any topics, from particular and so cause obstructions - they need London N8 9LE Vladimir Maikov Tel 2 4421434 Kunkhyab. His Holiness then interpretations of emptiness to the not be leading specially 'religious' Tel 81 3417872 Sovietskaya 14-7 Fax 2 340643 Fax 71 6018171 Zhcleznodorzhny delivered a short address, praising primordial mind as revealed in the lives as monks or nuns. Moscow region Dzog-chen Community in a low and touching tone the tantras; from the illusory body and We live in times when the GREECE Tel 95 5527052 Apartado Postal 483 spiritual accomplishments of Kalu clear light to the distinctions within isolation of the various oriental Dzog-chen Community Fax 95 9382077 Merida 5101 Rinpoche. While this speech was male, female, and non-dual tantra; Buddhist traditions is breaking down. P O Box 3240 Fax 74 447 550 being given, the young Rinpoche from the approach to As practitioners we are sure to meet 10210 Athens Anna Rudneva began to stretch his legs as if to get and J i gin e Lingpa's those who follow other paths, other Tel 1 2779112 15 Line, b48 f28 EX YUGOSLAVIA down from his small throne. perspective of the spiritual practice, schools. At least it will be positive St. Petersburg 199178 Jovanovic Zelila Attendants carefully tried to settle praising Dzog-chen as the peak of to be able to relate to them with HOLLAND Zeleni Venae 1 Sucking Dzogchen SINGAPORE Beograd him down several times without all spiritual paths, but also expressing knowledge and understanding, rather avail. He wanted to get down and his own difficulty in applying the Johannes Verhulsfraat 44" Ian Gan Tel 11 687123 than being dismissive of their 1071 NE Amsterdam 585 North Bridge Road when he was down stood right in Dzog-chen approach. In this way, traditions or believing that we alone Tel 20 6718647 apt. 15-04 Blanco Court front of the Dalai Lama. To he unravelled a majestic web of as Dzog-chen practitioners (fatal Singapore 0718 everyone's surprise, just as His meaningful interrelationships human failing! ) have the true path. 2982711; Fax 2934472 Holiness was speaking of the between different Buddhist schools, I hope these few words will im port ance of not spoiling the young philosophies, and practices, contribute towards such an "Contacts" is a list of neople who can be contacted in order to have information tulku and the need for the reincarnate investigating the reasons for each of understanding. on die activities of the Dzog-chen Community in their particular country.

MAY-JUNE 1993 ISSUE 21 16 Global Survival Conference PRACTICES FOR SPECIAL DAYS from Tibet home, New Delhi 5th Month, 10th day Tue.29th June 1993 function of our energy and creating a vital contact with the The Global Forum of Spiritual and Parliamentary Leaders held their According to the Master Jigmed Lingpa tin s is the anniversary energy of the universe by doing a Ganapuja with our Vajra Second General Assembly in Kyoto, Japan, from April 18th to 23rd, 1993. of the birth of Padmasambhava. sisters and brothers. More than 300 spiritual leaders, parliamentarians, scientists, journalists, To celebrate this important anniversary we Dzog-chen If there are no other practitioners nearby you can do a medium practitioners all over the world communicate in the state of Tun on your own. artists and business people from SO countries attended the session. On a note contemplation, practising Guruyoga with the Tundrin, Tungyas Inei ther case, when you transform into the Simhamuka, of frustration and despair, the session concluded that counter-measures or Ganapuja according to our possibilities. recite her heart mantra as many times as possible. intended to halt the headlong course of planetary destruction have, so far, We do this practice whenit is 8.00 in the morning in Oddiyana. proved inadequate and indecisive. In an apt diagnosis of the root cause of 6th Month, 30th day Tues. 17th August 1993 SEE THE UNIVERSAL TIMETABLE (see issue 19) the current crisis, the session rightly observed thata radical change inhuman NEW MOON. This is a very important day to do purification values w as'im pereti ve. Unless human beings give up greed, intolerance and 5th Month, 15th day Sun. 4th July 1993 practices, especially the "Purification of the Six Lokas". insens it i vi ty to nature, our living planet will continue to be depleted of the FULL MOON. This is a special day for the Long-life practice If you have the chance, you can also do a short, medium or vital resources that sustain all kinds of life - human, animal, vegetable and of Arm La yus, so you can do the Long-life practice "Union of long Tua the life of the essential elements such as air, water, land and mineral wealth. Primordial Essences" early in the morning. The focal prescription endorsed at the session said that we must develop our If you cannot do it at that time, it is still good to do it later in 7th Month, 10th day Thu. 26th August "inner environment" or environment which is concerned with our relationship the day. This is the anniversary of Jomo Menmo (1248-1283), a very famous woman Terton, reincarnation of Yeshes Tsogyal. to ourselves, our comunities, our natural ambient and the cosmos. 5th Month, 25th day Wed. 14th July 1993 She was the consort of the great Terton Guru Chowang There were four principal sectors under which the session had organised This is a Dakini day and an important day for the practice of It is also a very special day of Guru Padmasambhava. its deliberations - the media, science, the arts, and indigenous values. The Ekajati. r Therefore it is an ideal day to do a Ganapuja and Long-life media experts from 20 countires considered how to explore ways to improve Therefore, according to your circumstances, try to do the long practice associated with Padmasambhava, "Universal Wisdom services to the public in communicating threats and solutions to human Tun collectively with your Vajra brothers and sisters, or the Union". global survival. Similarly, scientists from 20 countries pledged to use their medium Tun if you are practising on your own. tools to save the environment and not pollute or poison it. The artists, In either case, repeat the heartmantraof Ekajati as many times 7th Month, 15th day Wed. 1 st Sept 1993 whether musicians, painters, dancers or TV and film producers, resolved to as you can. FULL MOON. This is the anniversary of Tsarchen Lo sal mobilise their expertise to communicate the spirit, concept and urgency of Gyatso and Padma Karpo, a famous 17th century Drugpa Kargyupa Master. global survival issues. The indigenous leaders were, in particular, concerned 5th Month, 30th day Mon. 19th July 1993 NEW MOON. This is a day for purification practices. It is Therefore it is an excellent day to practise "A Kar Lamai with the restoration and purification of the life-giving environment and a best to do the Pun fi cadon of the Six Lokas either collectively Naljyor", the Guruyoga with the While A early in the morning better understanding among all people. or alone, preferably in the early morning. Otherwise you can if possible, or later in the evening when you are free. The Board of Trustees of the International Green Cross had met a few do a medium or short Tun. It is also an excellent day for the Long-life practice of the days earlier for the first time. The President, Mikhail Gorbachev, gave the Dakini M and arava. address in the plenary session on 20th April, 1993. A significant remark of 6th Month, 4th day Fri. 23rd July 1993 President Gorbachev was that: "At a time of ecological crisis, humankind This is the anniversary of the Dharmachakra (the first turning 7th Month, 25th day Sat. 11 th Sept. 1992 increasingly becomes a single species". He further emphasised that the of the Wheel of the Dharma): the first time that Buddha This is a Dakini day and also the anniversary of Pagmo coming 21st century was critical to life on Earth - "The 21st century will be Shakyamuni gave the teaching of the Pour Noble Truths to his Drugpa (1110-1170), the chief disciple of G ampo pa. Try to do a Ganapuja together with your Vajra sisters and either the century of total crisis, or the century of human recovery, the disciples at Sarnath, after his ihumination. To honour the Lord Buddha on this special day you can do a brothers. century of human survival". The International Green Cross came into being Ganapuja with your Vajra brothers and sisters. If there arc no other practitioners nearby, you can do a in Rio de Janeiro on June 6th, 1992 at the Parliamentary Earth Summit medium Tun on your own. Conference. The charter of the International Green Cross has three main 6th Month, 10th day Wed. 28th July 1993 In either case, when you transform yourself into the Dakini objectives: firstly, to facilitate vigorous, timely and effective response to This is a special day of Padmasambhava so if you have the Simhamuka, recite her heart mantra as much as possible and present or future environmental disasters; secondly, to advocate international possibility, it is beneficial to do a Ganapuja together with your then do an intensive practice of Ekajati. ecological law, and thirdly, to promote value change through education and Vajra Brothers and Sisters, if not you can practise Guruyoga communication. The third objective is of course the most urgent and with Padmasambhava and the Long-life practice "Universal 7th Month, 30th day Thu. 16th Sept. 1993 decisive. It fits in with the Buddhist teaching which emphasises the Wisdom Union". NEW MOON. This day is ideal for purification practices. Try to do either the "Purification of the Six Lokas" or the development of the inner attitude of mind to view all life as a unity and to 6th Month, 14th day Sun. 1st August 1993 "Namchos Sratroi Naljyor", the Yoga of the Peaceful and treat every being with compassion. This is the anniversary of the third Karmapa, Rangjung Dor je. Wrathful Manifestations, either collectively or on your own. There is a sizeable component of representation of world Buddhists at the On this day it is good to do "A Kar Lamai Naljy or", Guruyoga Global Forum among whom Lama Doboom Tulku has been elected General with the While A. 8th Month, 10th day Sat. 25th Sept. 1993 Council Member. He attended the first meeting of a group of spiritual and This is a very special d ay of Gu ru Pad masamb ha va, therefore political leaders in October 1985, near New York to develop a dialogue on 6th Month, 15th day Mon. 2nd August 1993 do a Ganapuja with the Guruyoga and the Long-life practice critical survival issues. His Holiness the Dalai Lama nominated Lama FULL MOON. This is the anniversary of G ampo pa, the of Guru Padmasambhava "Universal Wisdom Union" Doboom Tulku as his representative to the meeting where it was decided to disciple of Mil arepa. collectively. form a Global Forum of Spiritual and Parliamentary Leaders on Human Therefore it is an excellent day to do "A Kar Lamai Naljyor", Otherwise you can do a medium Tun on your own. Survival. The first Global Survival Conference, attended by H.H. the Dalai Guruyoga with the White A. It is also a good day to do the Long-life practice of Ami tayus, 8th Month, 15th day Thu. 30th Sept. 1993 Lama and Lama Doboom Tulku was held in Oxford, UK, in April 1988. The "Union of Primordial Essences". FULL MOON. This is an important day to do the Long-life next major event of the Global Forum was a programme held in Moscow in practice of Ami tayus. "Union of Primordial Essences". It is January 1990 followed by the Earth Summit ih Rio de Janeiro in June 1992 6th Month, 25th day Thu.l2th August 1993 best to do it early in the morning , but if you cannot it is still where the International Green Cross took birth. This is a Dakini day, so it is a positive day for reinforcing the good if you can do it later in the day or evening. Doing something for Tibet THE MIRROR by Andrea Dell'Angelo we take refuge in the Three Jewels, in particular. A few days ago I found myself in Buddha, Dharma and Sangha, but In the last few years the Tibet Washington, D. C, for work. The as Tibetans we take refuge in the Fund has collected over three million Dalai Lama had also arrived there, Four Jewels: the fourth is the dollars, realised an incredible The International Newspaper of the Dzog-chen invited by the Tibet Fund which had International Community..." number of projects in India and Community founded by Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche organised an intense schedule for I must say that seeing the work Nepal, within a range that goes from him, including a meeting with that has been done in America for developing the communities of Published by the Associazione Culturale Comunità Dzog-chen. President Clinton and an evening Tibet and its culture one remains refugees in India and Nepal to plans The Mirror, Merigar, 58031 Arcidosso GR, Italy. entitled, "A Tribute to Tibet". w ith ou t words, and also u nd erstand s in the fields of health, education, Tel. and fax 0564-966608 . Singers, performers and why Tibetans take refuge in the economy, research and studies and politicians participated during the fourth jewel. to the establishment of scholarships Direttore responsabile: Raimondo Bultrini evening, in particular the actor The number of activities that for Tibetan young people who want Editorial advisors: Arma Eid, Giovanni Arca Harrison Ford, the singer Roberta have been undertaken, of people to specialize themselves in Ame­ Editorial collaboration- Liz Granger, Robin Cooke, John Shane, Nina Rack, the musician Philip Glass, who participate actively, of proj ects rica. Robinson, Cristiana De Falco, Albert Benson the composer Marvin Ham lisch, that have been real us ed and the funds We, the people who work for Graphic assistance: Fulvio Ferrari, Felix Dawe Richie Havens, the monks of the that have been collected make one ASIA, would also like to do Layout: Shang-Shung Edizioni and the Nobel really think, above all, if one is also something more for Tibetans and Printer. Tipografia 2A, Arcidosso Peace Prize Winners Elia Weisel trying - among many difficulties - their culture, but unless we can Issue 21, May-June 1993 and the Dalai Lama. to do something for Tibet, in a overcome the bureaucratic and © 1993 Ass. Cult. Comunità Dzog-chen. The Dalai Lama started his speech context that is very different from financial obstacles we findourselve s Registrato presso il Tribunale di Grosseto al n. 5/1990 del 26 Aprile with a joke, saying: "...As Buddhists America, such as Europe and Italy hampered by, it will be slow going... 1990

MAY-JUNE 1993 ISSUE 21