Comments on: Is it Interference?

By: Jean

Jean — Tue, 28 May 2013 18:43:27 +0000

Let’s not forget that these kinds of topics are not what budhadharma is all about. This seems more about institutions, politics and samsaric conflicts. It’s good to be informed, but we should not let these things interfere with our Dharma practice.

By: Ander

Ander — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 02:53:48 +0000

It’s disappointing that even some TB officials feel compelled to indulge in political squabbling.

Why not just let them, though, and see what they may learn from the process? And ourselves continue to be models of serenity and kindness for the world? After all, this is ultimately about each of us, not our attempts to control everyone else.

By: Venerable Lady

Venerable Lady — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 13:44:32 +0000

Insightful and educative article.I respect the Dalai Lama and love him but he has no authority to disrespect his own Guru’s teachings or cause such schisms in the Sangha community by trying to dictate successions or practices.
It is my sincere wish that all the Buddhist lineages flourish through out the modern world which is so in need of Lord Buddha’s precious teachings.We should never be sectarian in the support of our Teachers or criticise other lineages but the Dalai Lama does not have the proper authority to ‘lay down the law’ in his own lineage or others and in effect destroy the spiritual life of others.
I do love the Dalai Lama,truly,and I respect all Gurus but I do not ‘have’ to obey him in this matter nor should others be pressured to do so.

By: Q

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 15:45:22 +0000

Very powerful article. I see where you’re getting with this. When we reflect correctly, it truly shows how inconsistent and unstable Tibetan Buddhism as a whole has turned out to be. For a belief that stress on training the mind, this inconsistency and disparity in treatment for different sects of Buddhism is truly shameful. It is no wonder that some people are beginning to question so much on the actions of their own lamas when the higher authorities are acting in such confusing manner.

How is the Dharma going to grow with so much turmoil going on within two of the largest sects of Tibetan Buddhism? One does wonder if this is for the ultimate benefit of all sentient beings or is it just another political play.

What upsets me the most is the inconsistency in treatment between the sects. HHDL is known as an overall leader for Tibetan Buddhism. However, lets not forget that the highest standing Spiritual Leader in each sect is NOT the Dalai Lama, and if HHDL is not the head of the Gelugpas, how can HH ban a protector that is unique to one sect and not face opposition from the Gelugpas? That is a question to ask.

Take for example the Sharmapa, the reagent of Kagyu lineage, responsible of identifying the Karmapa. I am truly glad that the Sharmapa stood up for his lineage, selecting the rightful Karmapa rather than succumb to pressure on the Dalai Lama chosen Karmapa which was found by Tai Situpa.

It makes me wonder though, with all due respect, if the Gaden Tripa had taken His stand for all Gelugpas during the ban of Dorje Shugden, if things will be different today… if the ban would still be imposed and the separation of our dear monasteries would happen.