Dear Sir / Madam,
I am writing to you to draw your attention to a most important issue within the Tibetan Buddhist community. This is not about any Free Tibet issues. This is something even more important about the freedom of people within the Tibetan community and among each other.
- It is well known that His Holiness the Dalai Lamas throughout their incarnations over the centuries have been both secular and spiritual heads of the Tibetans. This may have worked in the past, in a country that was isolated from the rest of the world. However, many countries throughout the modern world understand that the mixing of secular and religious affairs cannot work.
This system has failed time and time again, throughout history, in all the largest nations in the world.But this is not so in the exiled Tibetan community living in India. His Holiness the Dalai Lama, up until very recently, held both secular and spiritual leadership of his people. Decisions and policies made for the country encompassed both secular and religious edicts at the same time. This has become very pronounced during the Dalai Lama’s ban on the religious worship of the Buddha Dorje Shugden. - As a spiritual leader of his people, it may be the prerogative of the Dalai Lama to proclaim a ban on a particular religious practice. In fact, he has even banned all Dorje Shugden devotees from attending his sermons, rituals and special religious ceremonies. Within a spiritual sphere, perhaps this is still permissible, since he is their religious authority. Also, any Lama has the right to determine which students are permitted to attend their ceremonies.
However, as the secular leader of his people, the Dalai Lama should maintain an unbiased concern for all citizens of the nation under him, no matter what their religious choices are.He should NOT exclude people from coming to see him as their political, secular leader during his non-religious activities, talks or appearances.
Unfortunately however, this is what is happening: Dorje Shugden devotees are not permitted to have anything to do with the Dalai Lama or his people, solely because of his religious beliefs. At the same time, although this is a spiritual matter, the secular institution of the Central Tibetan Administration (formerly known as the Tibetan Government-in-Exile) has also become deeply involved.They actively search for Dorje Shugden people to create obvious segregation and undemocratic bias.When they find them, the CTA ostracizes, attacks and ridicules Dorje Shugden practitioners. They deny them any of the welfare, voting rights or privileges that all citizens of a country should be equally entitled to.Through the ban, Tibetans are forced to make an exclusive decision – choose to follow the Dalai Lama or Dorje Shugden. However, if they choose to continue with Dorje Shugden, they do not only lose connections to the Dalai Lama.
They are also severed from all voting rights, education, social welfare, medical aid or even social interaction with their fellow Tibetan citizens. This is because the Dalai Lama has said clearly that Tibetans must completely sever all social, working and religious ties with Dorje Shugden practitioners.This is NOT RIGHT. The Dalai Lama may have supreme spiritual authority over his people, as their religious leader. However, as he is also their secular leader, he should still have equal care and concern for his people as citizens of his nation. This goes beyond one’s religious orientation, which is every individual’s freedom to choose.
Even if someone is not allowed to associate with the Dalai Lama for religious reasons, they should still have the right to associate with their secular, political leader. After all, they are still citizens of the community – shouldn’t all citizens be granted equal liberties and civil rights, regardless of their religious choices? Shouldn’t every secular leader have equal concern for the people under his leadership and take care of their welfare irregardless of their religious beliefs and orientation?
There are also Tibetans who are not Buddhists, but are Muslims, Bonpos and the likes. They are allowed to attend all the Dalai Lama’s religious ceremonies and secular gatherings. Basically, all citizens of Tibet are allowed to interact with the Dalai Lama, whether on a religious and/or secular level EXCEPT Dorje Shugden practitioners. How does the Tibetan leadership address this when every other democratic country in the 21st Century will not tolerate this kind of blatant discrimination.
- Lastly, in more recent times, the Dalai Lama has retired as the secular head of the Tibetan exiled community. In 2011, the respected Dr. Lobsang Sangye has stepped into the position as the Tibetans’ new prime minister, overseeing all secular affairs of the state. However, Dorje Shugden devotees are still not permitted to associate with him, only because of their religious orientation. Why is this so?There is now a clear distinction between the spiritual leader (Dalai Lama) and the secular leader (Lobsang Sangye). But it seems that religious edicts have also overlapped onto the secular affairs of the Tibetan community. The spiritual dictates from the spiritual leader are also being upheld by the secular leaders of the community. Why is this so? Why have spiritual affairs become a part of the political affairs of a country; and vice versa?
So, we would like to post the following important questions, which need to be asked and addressed:
- As a religious leader, His Holiness the Dalai Lama does not allow people to come to his talks. We respect and understand that. It is his prerogative as their spiritual leader. However, on a secular level, as the leader of all six million Tibetans, why does he not allow these same Tibetans to join in his secular activities, talks, rallies and events? If not, why not? After all, His Holiness is still their leader.
- Now that His Holiness the Dalai Lama has passed his secular power to the first Prime minister of Tibetans, Dr. Lobsang Sangye, what do all the Tibetan Dorje Shugden practitioners do? Are they allowed to talk to and interact with their new secular leader? Or are they restricted from doing so purely because of their religious choices? What are they expected to do?
- Dr. Lobsang Sangye (Prime Minister) is a secular leader, a layman who was newly and democratically elected who is not a Spiritual Guru or Dharma teacher; only strictly a worldly leader for the benefit of all Tibetan citizens. How do Tibetan Dorje Shugden practitioners relate to him? How should they relate to him? How should Dr. Lobsang Sangye, as their Prime Minister, relate to them? Can they even consider him their leader although they are Tibetans who still practice Dorje Shugden? They certainly do not have any spiritual bond (samaya) with him and their religious practices would not have any bearing on their relationship with him, as it might with the Dalai Lama.
- In future, how do Dorje Shugden practitioners relate to the next prime minister after Dr. Lobsang Sangye? And the one after that? And after that? How should all these future prime ministers relate to the people?
We do not mean disrespect to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, or to Dr Lobsang Sangye, the CTA or any Tibetans. However, we need to ask these questions. They are logical and necessary at a time when the world does not operate solely by religious edicts. It is unfair, undemocratic and a travesty of human freedoms. We call for reconsideration of this ban and how it is being conducted and wish that all have the freedoms to make their own religious and worldly choices.
With respect,
Admin
www.dorjeshugden.com
English
Indonesia
Tibetan
Lisa Bracewell
February 13, 2012
Dear Sir/madam,
I am a lay practicener of 15 years. I have a son who is 14 years old, disabled with no language but he loves Dorje Shugden, he listens to puja every day and laughs and obviously recieves blessingsand has some relief from his particular suffering. Without a doupt he has a strong connection with him. It can be isolating having a child with a disability but I feel protected by Dorje Shugden and feel he is helping me transform this challenge into my spiritual path. I cannot begin to imagine how isolated people are who are being alieanated from practicing dorje Shugden…no matter how I try and look at it….Its just very confusing ???????
michaela
February 13, 2012
The above is definitely an article with relevant questions. I have several comments:
With regard to separation of secular and spiritual government. Supposely if there were no ban on Dorje Shugden, will the govenrment mixing spirituality and secularity still work in Tibet still work? Will DS proponents request this separation? Perhaps to make a claim that the spirituality and secularity cannot be mixed in the context of governing, the reason should be examined: These days where information flows more freely, and it is believed to be a basic human rights to choose your belief. Having a mixture of secularity and spirituality may cast out some people and eliminate their chances to be leaders or serve in an important government functions (e.g., it may not be possible for a Buddhist country with Buddhist government to have Muslim leader) if there is no separation between secularity and spirituality. So this separatation should serve to promote equality and promote basic Tibetan human rights to choose their belief including whether they choose to be DS or non DS practitioners
As for the first questions above:
I have a slightly different point of view. Isn’t it a Lama’s right, especially considering now that Dalai Lama has taken off his secular leader head to actually choose who should be allowed or not allowed to attend his events or being associated with him. Not undermining his personal rights as a Lama and spiritual leader, I personally think it would be nice and promote peace, and democracy among Tibetan communities if he does not segregate between DS and Non DS practitioners
For the second, third, and fourth questions:
Dr. Lobsang Sangye, as a strictly secular leader should have no reason to segregate Tibetan subjects based on their religious subjects. As a strictly secular leader, he is responsible for the welfare of all Tibetants. Thus, principally, he and CTA should step up and care for all Tibetan subjects whether they are DS on non DS practitioners. with the resignation of Dalai Lama as a secular leader, it is a great opportunity for Dr. Lobsang Sangye and CTA to show that they are capable of governing and promoting welfare for the Tibetans, instead of using their energy to put suffering to their own people purely due to their religious belief.
Poonlarp
February 13, 2012
Thanks for the articles and the questions, I believe a lot of people have the same questions in mind.
Although I respect HHDL so much for his attainments, sometimes I am also confused by his motivation as there are contradictions. Learning from the Lamrim, they should be no contradiction for all Buddha’s teachings, no contradiction between Sutra and Tantra.
I was very impressed by HHDL’s teachings, the first teaching I read from HHDL was the 8 Verses of Thought Transformation. I remember very well that he mentioned before he started to teach the 8 verses, he set the direction of the teaching that, everyone wants happiness. No matter who you are, what religion you are, everyone looks for happiness, doesn’t want suffering. So it’s ok to practice different religion from HHDL as all religious path lead to the same place. These impressed me so much of how high level of compassion he posses.
But after I study about the ban, how HHDL and the CTA create a thick fat barrier to stop DS practitioner to live as a normal human being, that to have the basic right to enjoy HHDL’s teaching, to see their Tibetan friends and family and etc.
This is so confusing as the country which promotes world peace doesn’t have peace within their people. How could a person who promote compassion and love to the world don’t have compassion and love towards his own people? How could this be?
YontenJamyang
February 13, 2012
The situation prior to HHDL’s resignation as the secular leader of the Tibetan people and the current situation after HHDL’s resignation as the secular leader among to the same. No changes. In both situations Tibetan people who practice Dorje Shugden are basically treated as persona non grata. The is a censure of the more severe kind. Sort of a Tibetan “Cultural Revolution”.
Because I respect the HHDL a lot, I will think of logical reasons why this is happening.
Q1: We have to go all the way back to basic problem that is facing the Tibetan people and that is of Tibet itself. The problem that is rooted in the China/Tibet issue is secular and not spiritual while the HHDL is still alive. Any public events whether it is of spiritual or secular is public and is more secular in nature as it can be viewed by the world at large. So the HHDL is very cautious that he strongly implement the ban publicly. In my opionin, the ban itself is more secular than spiritual ie for others to see.
Q2: Yes, strictly speaking since the HHDL passed the secular leadership to the new PM, ANY Tibetan regardless of belief should have equal rights and access to the PM. I urge all DS practitioner to regard this as an olive branch and take up their right of access to the PM in all ways despite any obstacles. It may take time for over enthusiastic members of the CTA to mellow down. Just attend any events by the PM without fuss. Even show support. That would be nice.
Q3: A famous person in China who practice Tibetan Buddhism once said that the HHDL is the spiritual leader. Obviously, in this case, his secular leaders would be the Chinese leaders. Similarly, whoever the Tibetan regard as their spiritual leader; they should regard the PM as their secular leader and the PM should regard all Tibetan as his people. DS practitioner should just regard the PM as their secular leader and vice versa from the PM. Again without fuss. I see this as a possible step for the ban to be lifted. Perhaps, first for secular matters and finally for the spiritual ban itself.
Q4: The same as Q3. Regard all future secular leaders as their leader. Exercise your right as Tibetan. May not be easy but keep going at it positively like Gandhi. After all, Buddhist are suppose to be peaceful. Show the world how good DS practitioners are and we will win.
Regards!
Positive Change
February 13, 2012
It is indeed an ongoing discussion and speculation as to WHY. Why indeed for the ban? Why is HHDL doing what he is doing? If we knew the answers, we would ourselves be enlightened, wont we?
However we can voice our opinions and discuss openly in the hopes we find some answers between ourselves that may give us that inner peace within our tormented minds and bleeding hearts.
My answers to the following questions are as such:
Question 1
On a rudimentary it is true that HHDL is the spiritual leader of the Tibetans and yes I suppose it is HHDL’s prerogative as to who attends or who does not attend his talks/teachings. IT IS entirely up to HH. I tend to agree with Yongten Jamyang on the reasoning behind WHY. This whole fiasco (the ban) has no basis to the point of being ridiculous (no disrespect to HHDL) but why does HHDL still do it? Perhaps there is a bigger picture behind the pure motivation.
Let us think for a moment how it would be like WITHOUT a ban?
Would the spread of Dorje Shugden be as far reaching and as news worthy?
Perhaps “using” HHDL public teachings as a platform for “promoting” the ban would undoubtedly bring it to the world stage? A lot of ifs and whys but look at the results it has created. Sure there is “negative” too but in the long run how many more people are actually benefiting? Perhaps that is what we should ask ourselves… but that does not mean we remain silent to the sufferings of those caused by the ban. Perhaps this is one of the greatest teachings of HHDL, how we show compassion in times of greatest need. Helping in a Buddhist way, a peaceful way by slicing through ignorance with the sword of wisdom!
Question 2 – 4
As they are somewhat related I shall answer this as a collective hypothesis. Perhaps HHDL stepping down from secular “power” so to speak is a clear indication to all that some reform is needed. The arguments presented are very clear. Secular and Spiritual SHOULD be separate and if both are intertwined it is a recipe for disaster (unless you are HHDL working out of a compassionate motivation nothing else of course…)!
In recent talks/teachings HHDL has even mentioned that the choice is actually left to those who want to practice of not. AM not quoting verbatim but it was clearly stated as, “you either choose me or you choose a worldly God”. Even HHDL stance has “mellowed” down somewhat. Perhaps giving CTA a chance to actually take the example and do as all Democratic governments do… give people the choice! However, this can only happen if the pressure is put on them from all sides. Make their ears itch from so much “talk” that they inevitably have to “succumb” to what the people want. The can try to suppress a few million Tibetans but try to ignore hundreds of millions of eyes outside their little power struggle to hold on to what they have (which by the way is nothing, they DO NOT have a country but only people to govern… unfortunately)
In light of what is happening around the world and the push for change, the push for equality, the push for freedom of expression which has been pervading in human society for centuries… perhaps we will all look back at this a yet another stepping stone for the betterment of mankind and spirituality in the long run. Hail the age of the Buddhist Renaissance!
Icy
February 13, 2012
Religious and secular matters do not mix in true democracy. In short what is rightfully Tibetan in secular rights does not apply whether they are DS practitioners or not. Why call it democratic when it is not? Democracy should be applied all the way without discrimination on whichever religion or faith. The purpose of a democratic government is to practise the spirit of social equality.
The prime minister , Dr Lobsang Sangye, who forms the government in which the sovereign power resides in the people of Tibet and is exercised by Tibetans who elect him to represent them. What else are all Tibetans expected to do whether they are DS practioners or non-DS practioners is extremely obvious and clear.
Triesa
February 14, 2012
Question 1 :
Dalai Lama has always been seen as the “Figure Head” in both secular and the spiritual matters in Tibet. Even upon his resignation as the secular head in CTA, Tibetans are still looking over his shoulders from time to time.
It’sbsoultely human only if Dalai Lama, as seen as the head of Tibet, to allow ALL Tibetans, irrespective of gender, religion and age to come to consult him on matters relating to the welfare of the people. However, he is not allowing this, and I could only have this as my answer. He is definitely Chenrezig, for him to act in such a illogically manner, there is only one purpose. By not allowing Dorje shugden practitioners to some to him, he is continueing his propaganda to talk about the ban and hence “indirectly” promoting Dorje Shugden in his own way.
2)Question 2-4
The fact that Dalai Lama has stepped down as a secular head of TGIE (now CTA) is already a sign to all the Tibetans that they should operate the government like any other countries in this 21st century. Spiritual and secular matters should not be mixed.
It is a “subtle” hint that people are free to choose their religion and that should not be mixed with the welfare of the people.It is really up to this new prime minister, Dr Lobsang Sangey to take the courage as the secular leader of the Tibetan people to implement changes.
When it comes to secular matters, ALL Tibetans, irrespective of their gender, age, and religious believes, should be free to approach the minister to discuss issues of their concerns. So Dorje Shugden practitioners, who have been discriminated and ostracized for so long should speak up.
Dr Lobsang Sangey recently had made a public speech on TV addressed to the Chinese government around the Tibetan new year in January 2012, on their brutal attack on peaceful demonstrators of Tibetans in China, and calling for International pressure against the Chinese as they have violated basic human rights issues.
If Dr Lobsang Sangey could speak with such passion for his people, then he should continue along this path to speak for Dorje Shugden practitioners in Tibet, as these are his people too. The power is in the hands of DS practitioners and Dr Lobsang Sangey, what would be a better choice for all the Tibetans when they are reunited as one? I am sure, the new PM, being a harvard law graduate knows the answer well.
I do hope new face brings new changes as we are not living in the caveman era, as leaders, I believe they DO have moral responsibility to his people. I would like to quote what US President Obama has once said ” Change we can!”
Kate Walker
February 14, 2012
This is certainly food for thought. Not being a Tibetan, I can only give an external point of view. With regard to #1, I believe that there must be a reason why HH the Dalai Lama is ostracising Dorje Shugden practitioners.
Anyone with half a brain would realise that what HH is doing is a PR nightmare – especially for someone known worldwide for proclaiming peace on earth and love to all with equanimity. Yes, love for all sentient beings must include Dorje Shugden practitioners, right? However, here he is, presenting the case that Dorje Shugden is a demon (which has been easily and logically disproved elsewhere on this website) and all Dorje Shugden practitioners should be treated as lepers.
Why the Dalai Lama would do this is the 64 million dollar question. As I find most negative reasons unpalatable, the most acceptable reason for me is that he must have a particular strategy in mind; which is in order to promote Dorje Shugden, he has to appear to be against it.
People may say why does he make so many suffer? Perhaps it is their karma to suffer.. surely nobody can create suffering for others unless they created the causes themselves? Also, there may be a number of people suffering, but the majority of people who would hear Dorje Shugden’s name or see his holy image far outweighs the number who are being ostracised so perhaps it is a numbers game. Another possibility is that the Dalai Lama is expediting the fruitioning of the negative karma of DS practitioners so that they can clear their negativities in order to continue on their spiritual journey.
As for the remaining 3 questions, well, the Dalai Lama has asked all Tibetans not to associate or share material things with Dorje Shugden practitioners, so it looks like Dorje Shugden practitioners have been completely excommunicated.
If Dorje Shugden practitioners are excommunicated, they will not be allowed to participate in any secular events because of this strange overlap of the sacred and the secular, with the Dalai Lama being such a strong influence in the Tibetan exile community, even though he has said that he is ‘retired’ as the secular head of the Tibetan government in exile, now known as the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA).
If the question is should they be allowed to interact with Dr. Lobsang Sangye and the CTA, the answer would of course be YES. For the first time since the Great Fifth Dalai Lama, spiritual and secular leadership of Tibetan society has separated. The Tibetan diaspora is scattered throughout the world, the culture of its lay people becoming increasingly diluted as they slowly assimilate into the different cultures of their host nations. If the CTA doesn’t get their act together, there will be NO Tibetan community to administer over.
For over 50 years, the Tibetans who left their motherland have been homeless, waiting for the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan-Government-in-exile (and of course, Nechung!) to gain independence. For half a century, there has been no progress for Tibetan independence. I feel that the CTA are using Dorje Shugden as a scapegoat for their lack of progress in this direction. And Dorje Shugden is selfless enough to absorb it.
What are Dorje Shugden practitioners expected to do? Depends on from whose perspective. From the Dalai Lama’s perspective, DS practitioners should just quit DS or fade quietly into the background. From CTA’s perspective, DS practitioners are to blame for all their failures so they expect the DS practitioners to just accept the blame. From the DS practitioners’ perspective, the Kalon Tripa/CTA should treat them equally as any other Tibetan. The Kalon Tripa/CTA should represent all Tibetans equally, regardless of religious affiliation. After all, they would represent Bon practitioners, Muslims etc. so why not Dorje Shugden practitioners?
Sorry if i’ve been a bit long winded…
蕃蕃
February 14, 2012
I could never understand how these being operated. For hundreds of year, Tibetan has a leader who is also their guru, their spiritual guide. I have nothing to comment if Dalai Lama’s students chose to follow their guru’s instruction and stop doing Dorje Shugden practice. I mean fine! That’s their choice. The problem is Dalai Lama also play the role as a secular leader hence He has been using His secular power to ban Dorje Shudgen practice and caused a lot of hardship, difficulties, separations, violentness and pain towards the Practitioners.
I respect Dalai Lama a lot for the benefits that He has brought to the world. I believe that He, as an animation of Chenrezig must have His hidden reason for it. If the Holiness has to ban the practice and go all the way, He will use whatever way or power that He has to ban it.
Now, what’s the reason of having a lay person Prime Minister? The biggest purpose here obviously is to fix the downfall of the issue and Dr. Lobsang Sangye must take over all the secular work and rule the country WITHOUT religious and races discrimination. Hence he should focus on improving the people’s welfare. He must make sure all his people live harmoniously, got jobs, not starved, children go to school, hospitals are builded, has the right to talk etc etc…
If there’s no improvement or changes for the better for the people in tibet, then why need another prime minster?
I am blessed to be able to practice Dorje Shugden freely in mynown country. Dorje Shudgen is my yidam, my guru and my protector. And I want all my love onces to have this protector too.
Trak Ze
February 14, 2012
1. As the leader of the Tibetans, it is so weird that he would discriminate his own people by not allowing them to his talks. I think he has his reasons and there would be no need to be angered by his actions at this moment. I think that when the ban is lifted everything will be ok. As the spiritual leader, he should allow them.
2. I would not know what they would do as I am not a Tibetan myself. But here is what I think they should do, I think they should be able to interact with their worldly prime minister. If they are not allowed to do so just because of their religious views, it would be a breach of human rights.
3. I think that Dr. Lobsang Sangye should relate to the Tibetans as his people and not on a religious level. The Tibetans should relate to him as their leader. They should view him as their true leader because he should not have any bias about religious views.
4. I think that the Tibetans should relate to whatever prime minister they have and they should follow their own views as long as it does not harm others. If they practice Dorje Shugden. Let them be! If they practice Setrab, let them be!
Jessica Jameson
February 14, 2012
You have the Dalai Lama encouraging peaceful talks with China. Why not encourage peaceful talks with Shugden practitioners?
You have Tibetans fighting for a Free Tibet. What about Free Shugdenpas?
This controversy is hypocritical coming from Tibetans wanting freedom, when they themselves don’t provide any for their own people.
They create such confusion amongst themselves. If I was a Tibetan practicing Dorje Shugden’s practice, am I allowed to complain to my Prime Minister about the injustice my fellow Shugdenpa’s and I experience?
It’s like being a child of divorced parents. Your dad says “No”, so you run to your mum. If she hasn’t got an opinion (could care less or the like), she responds, “Do what your dad says”.
As a Tibetan, I would NEVER disrespect HHDL – but I would not have the same sentiments towards Lobsang Sangye.
To live in a country where I’m not allowed to send my children to school, get medical aid at the hospital, buy groceries from the store, walk down the streets without feeling ostracized… AND MY PRIME MINISTER DOES NOTHING ABOUT IT?
On what basis would I want to support him?
Such confusion and injustice.
Ensapa
February 14, 2012
With such clear separation of religion and state, why do the Tibetans still act in this way? A country’s leader is supposed to protect their citizens, and not discriminate against any of them. What we are seeing here are people who are being ostracized and unfairly treated by the community just because of the difference of their religious beliefs. The Dalai Lama has the right to ban his followers from doing the practice as a religious head not but as the head of the government. He can segregate those people in spiritual activities, but not as citizens as a whole. In this sense, CTA failed in its duty to take care of its citizens.
dharmaspace
February 14, 2012
I enjoyed reading this article it triggers my thoughts a lot about the Dorje Shugden ban.
Q1 – The Tibetan Dorje Shugden pracitioners are still the subjects of the Dalai Lama when he held both spiritual and secular powers. To deny one’s citizens of their basic right to education, health care, and other support is inhumane especially if the citizens are in exile and may not have the support like if they were in their own country.
Q2 – I have not heard of Lobsang Sangye addressing the Tibetan population those that have continued practising Dorje Shugden. Does that mean Tibetan Dorje Shugden practitioners are not Tibetans anymore?
Q3 – Dr Lobsang Sangye has the opportunity to heal the rift amongst the Tibetans I hope he can see this clearly that the issue of Dorje Shugden has split his country for so long, and as long as his people remain divided, Freedom for Tibet will never be realized.
Q4 – Dear CTA prime minister do not make outcasts of your own people, if the Tibetans unite under one banner with all the Gelug Hierarchy, high incarnate Gelug Masters supporting CTA, it will be a force to be reckoned with. All the who’s who within the Gelug hierarchy are all in the West and very influential with powerful figures all over the world.
Pema
February 14, 2012
I like these questions very much – they can’t really be answered, and that’s the point. The CTA need to look at how their actions are so contradictory and what a terrible and inescapable dilemma they have put their own people into. They need to look at why, in all their years of exile, not a single famous person or truly successful person has emerged from their community. Why is that so? There is no support for good education among the exiled Tibetan community, there is no support for the average young person to excel or to develop their talents. Why is it a common stereotype that young Tibetans are just loafers, who hang around their communities, drinking unemployed?
Unfortunately, this all leads back to the same points that this article is making – that hundreds of years of placing so much emphasis on religion has crippled the Tibetan government and they are now unable to compete equally in the 21st century world with other nations and people. This is what will continue to repeat if there is no clear distinction between church and state, as this article calls for.
There’s an interesting discussion on this at the forum too (http://www.dorjeshugden.com/forum/index.php?topic=1713.0) – the four questions bring up many more other questions and thoughts about the issue. It’s very important for highlighting the many hypocrisies and illogical reasons given for the ban. Do join the discussion there too. The more voices there are that are questioning, the more (we hope) the CTA will sit up and start examining the immaturity, illogic and unkindness of their actions.
Galen
February 14, 2012
The ban by the Dalai Lama has created a split in the Tibetan Community and has created a lot of grief to DS practitioners because they could not exercise their freedom of rights. This has been unfair to these practitioners. The Dalai Lama has mixed politics with religion and created a fold of people who has no leader because the Dalai Lama does not recognise them.
The Dalai Lama being the Leader of Tibet should take care of the welfare of his people rather than creating disharmony. As it is, they do not have their country anymore, and now they cant interact with their peers because of difference in religious beliefs?
Now that the Dalai Lama has retired from politics, shouldn’t the DS practitioners be allowed back into the community? They should have all the rights back cos they are citizens of Tibet. They should not be discriminated solely because of their religious belief. The New Prime Minister should lead the people and allow them back into the community. Or is he still being controlled by the Dalai Lama?
This does not happen in other countries and it should not happen in Tibet also!In the future, Tibet should practice democracy for all people without discriminating it’s people on religious beliefs.
shugdenpromoter
February 14, 2012
That is the reason why TIBETANS LOST THEIR COUNTRY. And now they (TGIE) have been demoted to being an administration (CTA) …..HELLO??? Don’t they see that they are losing the grip and control over Tibetans. And it will be worst if they don’t wake up. Not many respect them at this moment. HH is being used as a political tool by the Indian government. If you ask around outside their small Tibetan community, nobody know who this Lobsang Sangye is? and etc. What has he done since he step into the office?
CTA can escape with this type of dictatorship is because HH is still around. Many Tibetan respect HH still but once HH is not around anymore….who do they have? Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, Panchen Lama, Trijang Rinpoche, WHO? Who will be their asset this time round?
I have heard and seen how Shugden practitioners are being treated by their OWN government, it really disgust me. Now the situation has been better as more Shugden practitioners are coming out and there are more around. But previously, it was so ridiculously unfair and if this happened in other countries, either they would have been overthrown, assassinated or they would be brought to the international amnesty court. No country or human right organisation will take this.
I will not comment much about HH as I still respect him very much and I do believe that HH has a BIGGER picture with his action. BUT I cannot bring myself to respect CTA as I strongly believe they are not there to benefit the Tibetans but themselves. Very sad.
kurava
February 14, 2012
Q1
I’m a non-Tibetan Buddhist. Frankly, I’m confused by this Tibetan politics. If not for the in-depth explanation offered by this site, I would have joined up with WSS in protest against the double standard practised by HHDL.
By logical reasoning and evidences showing wide spread practice of DS after ban imposed by HHDL, I concede that the bigger picture theory is possibly a valid one.
However, it still saddens me immensely to hear of the tortures inflicted on senior monks because they are DS practitioners.
Q2 -Q4
If Tibetans really believe in their cause and if CTA truly embraces democracy, the new PM of CTA, Dr. Lobsang Sangye, certainly should be impartial and protect the interests and well being of ALL Tibetans irregardless of lineages and personal spiritual practice.
Since Dr. Lobsang Sangye is in charge of secular affairs only and it is his mission to reinstate democracy to fellow Tibetans, he better walk the talk. Otherwise I doubt if any democratic nation will support the “Free Tibet” cause. The cause will forever remain as a pawn on the chess board of big power boys.
Derek Walters
February 14, 2012
This is revolutionary. Kudos to you all for your courage is speaking up and asking these questions. It is must needed in the world that acts too much on blind faith without questioning respectfully (and I do believe that Dharma permits respectful debate and questioning in the quest for understanding). What has been most disappointing in the whole Shugden issue is the lack of dialogue and the ways in which the Dalai Lama and his people have not permitted any open discussion about this. Already this transgresses any form of democracy or freedom of expression, the cornerstone to a democratic world.
I don’t know if you will necessarily get a straight answer from the people you are questioning in this article, but that shouldn’t be a reason to not keep asking. I applaud your efforts to stand up, speak on behalf of so many and put these questions forward. The more we do this, the more we put a collective pressure on the “powers-that-be” to examine their actions and think of how they might actually justify what they are doing. Also, it makes them consider how these actions reflect (badly) upon themselves.
Keep the questions coming. I am grateful there are warriors like you to keep the battle going in such a peaceful yet forceful way.
khedrubgyatso
February 14, 2012
Q1.His Holiness is not just anybody. This respect is earned not by mere designation but by his extraordinary teachings and books which have benefitted many.Whatever he says or do have weight and we should not dismiss it without careful contemplation.
Ordinary folks like us cannot possibly understand the minds of a bodhisattva and their deeds. He is performing them within the imperfect state of samsara where in order to achieve a larger good , some will have to suffer. There is no win win solution.
A simplistic explanation would be that if his detractors are allowed to come together for secular activities, there is no guarantee that they will not abuse this right to voice their unhappiness with DL and creating a potentially dangerous situation between the two camps. We have seen this enacted by those who were given such opportunities by those in power and using the opportunity given to turn against the authorities especially in the political arena.
Q2. It is really up to the Tibetans themselves to decide. Those in power will have to decide whether it is meaningful or beneficial to have no contact at all ,secular or spiritual with the DS camp. After all they are the ones who have taken the responsibility to look after Tibetans welfare.
If they practice discrimination and separatism , they will have to face negative public and international criticism . They will realize they are living in the 21ST century and not isolated Tibet. They cannot do whatever they want without getting backlash from the international community.
From the side of the ds supporters, they can fend for themselves by being resilient and resourceful and make the most of what they have. The CTA may ignore them, but others will respect and support them if they continue doing beneficial things despite being persecuted. They can continue in this way quite well without offending those in power unless the ‘ bullying ‘ reach the extent where their basic human right to live is denied.
Q3 Even though he is designated as leader, if even the secular rights of the DS group are denied , I don’t think they will regard him as one. If the new PM is happy to have only half his people under his fold by his unfair dictates, it is up to him. He should take the cue from DL to restore fairness now that part of the larger picture plan has taken root. DL stepping down is to tell his PM he can do what he couldn’t do for the sake of the larger picture of benefitting billions in China. I think under the circumstances, eventually both sides will simply just coexist although there may be some localized cases of hostilities etc. I see that happening even now with the DS camp separating to form their own communities.
Q4. I believe fairness and common sense will prevail especially when the originators or initiators of the present problem passes on. History has proven that time and time again. No dictator or unpopular monarch who did not win the hearts of the majority had ever ruled for long. The PM post may even be obsolete and replaced by a democratic parliament. Imagine the scenario where 90 % belong to DS camp. There would be no point of being PM even if no one abolishes it. If the position of the PM cannot secure international support and respect to help its own people and it does not have any power or resources to be independent, it will become a redundancy and die a natural death. The PM post may continue due to tradition but the minds and heart of the PM can and will change.
negra orquida
February 14, 2012
Thought provoking questions and answers indeed… I can only answer from a newbie ground-bottom level narrow view with limited knowledge in the workings of politics (secular and spiritual).
Q1: Would never be able to guess exactly why HHDL does what he does, he is a highly attained lama and his mind works differently from the average joe. We have been taught that we should merge Dharma and our “normal lives” as one, not treat them as separate. Dharma should be integrated into our eating, sleeping, playing, working etc. Maybe the reason why on a “secular” level he nevertheless does not allow Tibetans who practice DS to join his secular activities is because to him, there is no difference between secular and spiritual?
Q2: This question reminds me of how in some countries where Muslims make up the majority of the population, there are 2 types of laws working at parallel: common / federal law and Syariah law, with the latter being applicable to Muslims only. Non-Muslims may find that the restrictions under Syariah law on Muslims are in some cases oppressive, in other cases may be more favourable compared to how the federal law would addresses a particular situation. However the non-Muslims still regard the country’s leader (who is likely to be Muslim) to be their leader. So maybe similarly, HHDL has sort of created 2 laws within the Tibetan Buddhism community: 1 law applicable to DS practitioners only and 1 law applicable to non-DS practitioners. So whether or not Tibetans have equal rights to the new PM would depend on whether the PM adopts the “law” established by HHDL?
Q3: Following the same line of thought from the first two questions, the answer here would depend on the answers for the following:
Questions
i) do the Tibetans treat worldly and religious matters as the same? yes/no
ii) does the new PM want to inherit the “law” on DS practitioner from HHDL? yes/no
Answers
(i) Yes + (ii) Yes –> things would probably remain the same
(i) No + (ii) Yes –> things would probably remain the same
(i) No + (ii) No –> bigger chance for change
(i) Yes + (ii) No –> bigger chance for change
Also was wondering, since Dr. Lobsang Sangye was “democratically elected”, does this mean that DS practitioners voted for him too? If yes, then there must be a reason (favourable to them) why they wanted him to be the PM.
Q4: Same as the above.
Wonder if I’m making any sense…
dsiluvu
February 14, 2012
These are real good questions that requires real answers. The Tibetans suffering due to religious discrimination is real. The holy sangha, senior sangha and younger sanghas suffering are real. And all just because they have a different practice.
So now with a newly appointed 1st time ever in the Tibetan history, the Tibetans have a new Prime Minister or is it only for Tibetans who follow HHDL and who don’t practise Dorje Shugden??? So where does the Tibetans who practise Dorje Shugden go to for answers and secular affairs, welfare and support??? Are they not considered Tibetans just cause the have a different practice? That is so weird, does not make any sense and totally unacceptable in a democratic nation. No way will we see this in any democratic nation today.
CTA, Dr Lobsang talk about unity, harmony and freedom for Tibetans… but there is simply none for Tibetans’ “Dorje Shugden” practitioners. Hence where is the democracy in this? Hence they should not be any cry for a Free Tibet because it simply is not free from within. And is the nations’ Prime Minister Dr. Lobsang Sangye just a puppet for the CTA, just an act, a mask to hide away the real issues Tibetan in exile are facing?
What good is a Prime Minister if he cannot protect his own people without bias? What’s the point of having a PM then, makes no difference.
However we justify and look at it, in all sense in makes no sense and why should the world put up with such hypocritical act?
Sad that Tibetans escape from Tibet to be imprisoned by their own Tibetan community. They make themselves a laughing stock esp to the PRC.
pgdharma
February 14, 2012
A holy being like HHDL will manifest compassion in the best ways to get the most benefits out of it. As lay people, we are confused by his actions. To quote from Poonlarp: “This is so confusing as the country which promotes world peace doesn’t have peace within their people. How could a person who promotes compassion and love to the world don’t have compassion and love towards his own people? How could this be?” Yes, why is HHDL discouraging DS practice and why DS practitioners are not allowed to attend his teachings or any religious ceremonies? On secular affairs, isn’t he unfair and bias as not to allow people from coming to see him as their political, secular leader? The logical reason I can think of is there is a bigger picture behind this. Needless to say, indirectly HHDL has already created so much awareness by the ban. Or it could be that it is the karma of DS practitioners to suffer now so that they can purify their negative karma faster and propel them to higher teachings when the ban is lifted.
Dr. Lobsang Sangye, as a secular leader, should only be responsible for the welfare of the Tibetans and not get involved in religious affairs. He is not a spiritual leader like HHDL. Now that HHDL has stepped down as secular head, this is the right time and opportunity for Dr. Lobsang Sangye to prove that his interest lies in the welfare of his people whether they are anti or pro DS. DS practitioners should have equal rights as non DS practitioners as they are still Tibetans. As the Prime Minster, he should unite them and take care of them as they are the citizens of Tibet.
harrynephew
February 14, 2012
Dear Dalai Lama,
#1: In the pith of the Path as stated by the Incomparable Je Tsongkhapa who was your sacred Teacher during your first Incarnation, was said to be the Guru. I like the entirety of all Dorje Shugden practitioners out there who follow the path of Je Tsongkhapa, we are taught to love our Lamas and pay due respect to them, follow their instructions in order to gain realizations. Why do you put us in such odd dispositions for us not to follow our gurus order and follow yours? Why is Dorje Shugden so detrimental that we need to be deprived of his blessings. And if we do his practice, why does it makes us a bad person when it is the people from your legislation harming and hurting the DS practitioners within your own Tibetan community. This I really do not understand. Is this the way for a ‘simple monk’ to lead?
#2: The cause of Tibet’s independance is none other than wanting peace and happiness in your own country. What all TIBETANS want is happiness. If the current Kalon Tripa’s main concern is such, this should be the focus of his port folio within the CTA. Why mix politics with religion when u r no geshe in Buddhism?
#3: This brings me to ask one more question on top of what has been posed. Does Dr. Losang Sangye have the same authority over the Gelug monasteries and their administration? Is it fair for a secular authority to rule over spiritual establishments? Will the CTA still continue to confer title to monks and Geshes for their contribution to the Tibetan society? after the 99 years of exile on Indian land, where will Tibetans go? What is their REAL fate?
#4: I think the same question for these people will come to mind. What will happen to Dorje Shugden practitioners in exile after the 99 years on Indian land?
I think I have more questions to add but these are the pressing ones which I believe will give light to Dorje Shugden practitioners like myself.
Many thanks to the admin for bringing this up.
Harry
shugdenprotect
February 15, 2012
A powerful figure who has the ability to command a large international audience like HH the 14th Dalai Lama certainly knows what needs to be done secularly and spiritually to be a successful leader. If we go on the tangent of “shoulda, coulda and woulda”, HH should be a leader (secularly and spiritually) to every Tibetan and Dharma practitioner and should allow Tibetans who practice DS to join in His secular activities, talks, rallies and events. I agree with Michaele that Dharma is meant for everyone, regardless of race, religion, tradition etc. True dharma is when people of various backgrounds can gather in constructive harmony. As a Dharma master should maintain an unbiased treatment to “EVERYONE practicing Dharma and non-Dharma within the law of causality” who needs his guidance and care. So, why is HH, the emanation of Chenrezig, creating this separation and suffering? I agree with several comments regarding this article as well as comments made in other articles and forum discussions that, as already suspected for a long time, it is all for a bigger picture. In recent events, this mega plot (example: setting up of large DS monasteries, “coming out” of renowned DS Dharma masters) is unfolding as we see the eventual positive outcome for DS to enter and stay in the mainstream Buddhadharma practice. This outcome seems more and more inevitable. However, as DS practitioners now, we must not be complacent and continue the effort to lift the ban. In fact, we should be ever more diligent at this most crucial moment.
In relation to Question 2, I agree with YontenJamyang about using this opportunity to approach the new PM and exercise their rights as Tibetan citizens. Persevere and we will get the point through. Look at all the efforts started by Geshe kelsang Gyatso! If he and his dedicated students stopped at the first obstacles, we would not have come this far.
As to the relationship between Tibetan DS practitioners and Prime Minister Lobsang Sangye, it SHOULD be no different than the relationship between any citizen and his/her political leader whereby the role of the governing leader is to uphold the basic human rights of its people. At this moment, the Tibetans may not have knowledge of their rights and entitlement. Therefore, the Tibetans should learn up their rights so that they can make an educated and rightful demand from their secular leader.
In relation to the dynamics between future CTA Prime Ministers and Tibetan DS practitioners, there may not be need to consider this matter if Tibet does not regain its sovereignty. With the new status of the Tibetan governing body is an ADMINISTRATION, how can an administration stand on its own for long? How would such a status be represented in world organizations like United Nation, IMF etc.? Perhaps, with time, the Tibetan community will be “absorbed” into India, Nepal and China as it is already the unofficially reality. Should this be the case, Tibetans will be governed secularly by the country in which they seek citizenship and spiritually, they should be able to practice freely as long as the practice does not break the law.
vajrastorm
February 15, 2012
The bewildering point is that the Dalai Lama continues to assert his authority over the issue of the ban on Shugden practice. Even though the Tibetans now have a new Kalon Tripa, Dr Lobsang Sangye, who has supposedly taken over the mantle of political leadership of the Tibetans, yet in effect, except perhaps for the fact that all negotiations with China for Tibet’s freedom are now being handled by the Kalon Tripa and no longer by the Dalai Lama, everything else has remained the same. This is especially true with regard to the ban on Shugden practice and the ostracism of Shugden practitioners as well as the deprivation of all their basic rights as Tibetans.
It thus appears that Dr Lobsang Sangye continues to toe the line and not rock the Dalai Lama’s boat with regard to the Shugden issue.
The Dalai Lama persists in confounding us by continuing to stress that peace and harmony are at the core of Buddhism, and yet, on the other hand, wracking havoc to peace within the Tibetan community by his ban on the practice of Dorje Shugden. However, as he is an emanation of Chenrezig, we must see His acts and words as stemming from compassion. And yes, the more persistent He is in speaking out against Shugden and Shugden practiitoners, the faster he is helping to spread the practice of Shugden. Yet we hope that the ban will be lifted soon and Shugden practitioners will soon be free of crippling persecution.
Hope Rainbow
February 15, 2012
Point 1. The Dalai Lama was both a spiritual and a secular leader, a questionable mix in modern society.
Point 2. The Dalai Lama promulgated a ban on the practice of Dorje Shugden, He did so as the spiritual leader and as the secular leader (since he was both), but on the ground ONLY of his role as a spiritual leader. The ban thus gets mixed results -spiritual and secular, so not only is it about a spiritual practice it becomes a social apartheid too. Peculiar from a Saint who preaches harmony, peace and tolerance.
Point 3. The Dalai Lama now only stands as a spiritual leader and the secular leadership is passed on to a lay person who is not a spiritual teacher and therefore has no spiritual ground to forbid this or that practice to the community he leads. On top of that, the role is not just passed on, it is passed on through elections. Doesn’t an elected community leader have the duty to protect ALL members of his community, regardless of their spiritual beliefs?
QUESTION 1:
It is the Dalai Lama’s prerogative to select who may come to his teachings. This as a spiritual leader’s prerogative. However, when addressing the Tibetan community as a secular leader, why did He discriminate?
QUESTION 2:
Now there is a clear separation between spiritual leadership, the Dalai Lama, and the secular leadership, the Prime Minister. Can Dorje Shugden’s practitioners expect to be considered as equal community members from the Prime Minister and his government on a secular level?
QUESTION 3:
From the side of the Prime Minister role, what is he expected to do if not lead his community on secular levels, that is all levels except the spiritual level for which he is not qualified? What is expected of the Prime Minister? Isn’t there a “constitution” that should be applied?
QUESTION 4:
How again for the future? With future prime Ministers? What are they expected to do with regards to the ban, if not to leave it into the hands of the spiritual leaders on focus on secular affairs?
CONCLUSION:
If the Dalai Lama continues to be involved with secular affairs, and if the Prime Minister decides to be involved with spiritual affairs, then what is the benefit of separating the spiritual affairs and the secular affairs?
What is the benefit for the Tibetan community?
There is no benefit for the community as a whole if it is none other than a reorganization of an existing setting on an epidermic level only.
What sense does it make, if any?
It actually looks like a political measure that looks like it is going to change things, but it changes nothing. A politic’s specialty.
If I was a Tibetan within the Tibetan community in exile and if I was to recognize the Prime Minister as representing the community, I simply could not agree with what is being done. I would write to my representative and demand explanations and rectifications.
This political leader, democratically elected could not act this way in any other democratic country without the community members suffering from a segregation AND other members of the community making their concerns heard.
This is apartheid 21st century Tibetan style, and I am really sorry to say that. I think the world is expecting better from the people from the land of snows.
Sonam Dhargey
February 15, 2012
Q1.
I’m not sure why HH Dalai Lama imposed such rules for Dorje Shugden practitioners, I believe It could be for the purpose of creating causes for Dorje Shugden to flourish in the future. Dorje Shugden practitioners are very loyal and devoted. I believe each Dorje Shugden practitioners who continues with the practice diligently, devotedly and loyally without any doubts by accepting, enduring the hardship with a strong motivation to benefit others happily, can bring about positive merits and results that can create the causes for Dorje Shugen to flourish ban to be lifted and benefit many many more.
Q2.
The Dorje Shugden practitioners should continue with their practice and continue to press for freedom of religion. Dorje Shugden should educate the Prime Minister about who Dorje Shugden is and provide testimonials of the benefits of practicing Dorje Shugden. The new Prime Minister should not separate religion out of politics.
Q3 & 4.
The government should focus on governing the country by endorsing peace and harmony in their country by promoting religious freedom. The Prime Minister should look in to this religious freedom seriously and not be on any side of the fence if he wants the country to be peaceful and harmonious. Divide and rule is a recipe to disaster in any country and it creates unrest, uneasiness and bias which is a direct result to disharmony which leads to civil unrest and more suffering. The government must focus on how to benefit their citizens by creating equality and fair governing as the basis. Tibetans should accept a leader who promotes peace and harmony instead of leaders who create disunity and govern based on bias system.
Sonam Dhargey
February 15, 2012
Sorry correction for Q2.
The new Prime Minister should separate religion from politics.
dondrup shugden
February 15, 2012
Tibetans never knew about democracy nor human rights nor freedom of speech nor religious freedom, except for spiritual freedom. This spiritual freedom is very dear to all Tibetans (being mostly Buddhists) as it is in their mind stream to achieve. With the BAN on the worship of the protector, Dorje Shugden, whom they have known for 350 years is unthinkable and to be punished for it is utterly inhuman. Many Tibetans inherited this practice from their Root Gurus, and in the Vajrayana practice, obeying your Guru is of utmost importance. So the dilemma now occurs.
My comment above is based on the fact that the Dalai Lama had always been Tibet’s spiritual and secular head of state and there had never been any election until recently. Another fact is that there was no controversy nor disagreement as all Tibetans lived in sync with an isolated and protected society, practising a harmonious religion.
Personally I have very high respect and gratitude for HH Dalai Lama, for if not for HH having left Tibet and suffered so much, we would never have had the chance of studying and learning Tibetan Buddhism. Whatever negative feelings and opinions I may have over the BAN, within the depth of my heart I know it is for a bigger picture.
No one with study and knowledge can refute the fact that Dorje Shugden is a Buddha of great compassion and is not a demon as proclaimed by HH. Dorje Shugden has a recorded and traceable history.
Question (1)
By not permitting Dorje Shugden worshippers to attend both spiritual and secular talks and gatherings by HH is like making matters worse,(especially the secular ones) so that non spiritual groups will take notice and create more objections to the BAN.
Human rights groups can also take this up as an issue.
Questions (2) to (3)
Now that HH has given up his secular powers to a non Spiritual and non Dharma Teacher successor, Dr. Lobsang Sangye, all Tibetans have the right to approach Dr. Lobsang Sangye for their privileges as citizens and it is the duty of an elected officer of state to look after all Tibetans and be given access to school, medical attention etc. etc.
Now is also the time for all other groups of “human rights” organization to make appeals to Dr. Lobsang Sangye to stop refraining Tibetans of their civil rights.
At this point, I may also add that civil rights when granted would also encompass human rights of freedom of religious beliefs.
As a practitioner, I pray and wish that such groups will arise and lift the BAN.
Hysteric Gypsy
February 15, 2012
It’s saddening to see how sincere Dorje Shugden practitioners are banned from all HHDL’s talks and ceremonies be it secular or religious. Why the unfair segregation? Aren’t buddhists should act and speak in a peaceful manner and promote world peace? Well, my personal view is that there’s for sure a much bigger picture behind this ban, which we don’t see it yet. I do not believe the incarnation of Chenrizig would do something that will make people suffer. I still respect HHDL a lot.
I believe that secular and spiritual shouldn’t intertwine, otherwise things will get complicated and difficult. The stepping in of new prime minister is rather a “good” news. It says that CTA or Tibet needs to be reformed. As a secular leader, should be responsible for the welfare of the citizens and should not get religion involved. I hope DS practitioners can have the equal civil rights with those non ds practitioners.
The action of suppressing on religion freedom is actually another way of boosting this banned practice to arise. Bias only creates disharmony and conflicts. When one is given liberty to pursue their own interest and preference, peace will come from within.
Kris
February 15, 2012
I have no doubt at all on HH Dalai Lama as the spiritual leader. In fact, I respected a lot of him and I always feel his peaceful energy whenever I watch his Youtube movies.
However, from a secular and political leader, I am not agreeable to what he is doing, in fact, it is become so ironic that it puzzles me so much. Ever since Dalai Lama left Tibet in 1959, he has been fighting for “Free Tibet”, about freedom, but why is there no freedom for people who practice Dorje Shugden?
What I totally cannot accept is this: As a secular leader, he (through CTA) denied Dorje Shugden practitioners from travel documents, social welfare etc. What if I am someone who worship demon, who do all the bad things, hurt others, etc. I am still allowed to enjoy all the benefits? But while I practice Manjushri who propagate wisdom, I am denied benefits?
Hey CTA, you want people to give you freedom, Free Tibet and what not, WHY ARE YOU NOT GIVING DORJE SHUGDEN PRACTITIONERS FREEDOM???
What kind of logic is this?
Like the article pointed out, Is the newly DEMOCRATICALLY elected Prime minister going to address this issue?
zomfee
February 15, 2012
yes, the ban is make people who practice DS feel sad, but in the same time, they’re still living , and more stronger !! so no matter what happen to they, they’ll take it easily. it is almost like dharma teaching !!
i hope that the DS group can approach Dr Lobsang Sangye. He is a lay people. H.H Dalai Lama already ban this for so long. But all the high lama still never give up about the practice, why? Must break the ice to tell him and everybody.
How much DS can help him & the country !
Thank you
dondrup
February 15, 2012
It saddens to see His Holiness the Dalai Lama (HHDL), a Nobel Prize Winner for World Peace, a world famous Buddhist spiritual leader who is believed to be the emanation of Buddha of Compassion – Chenrezig, who propagates the teachings of compassion around the World; could institute a ban on Dorje Shugden practitioners.
As a result of this ban, Tibetans who are Dorje Shugden practitioners suffered tremendously and lost completely their basic human rights as Tibetans. There is no freedom of religion. There is no privilege as a citizen of the Tibetan in exile community.
Till this day, HHDL still maintain the ban. Despite HHDL’s retirement from the secular politics, his successor – Dr Lobsang Sangye still pursue this ban diligently!
This blatant discrimination is simply against the very constitution of the Tibetans in Exile. This constitution (refer to http://tibet.net/about-cta/constitution/) is based on the spirit of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Charter guarantees to all Tibetans equality before the law and enjoyment of rights and freedom without discrimination on the basis of sex, religion, race, language and social origin.
HHDL, Dr Lobsang & Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) must come forward with the answers to these four questions. Justice must be brought to the Tibetan Dorje Shugden practitioners. The ban must be lifted immediately. Otherwise HHDL, Dr Lobsang & CTA are violating the Constitution of the Tibetan Community!
Shouldn’t Dr Lobsang serve and protect the very people who had elected him into office?
Shouldn’t HHDL display the compassion, love and care that is expected of a Buddhist and more so as an emanation of Buddha of Compassion towards the Dorje Shugden practitioners?
DSFriend
February 15, 2012
We have seen the transfer of political powers by the Dalai Lama to Dr. Lobsang Sangye but certainly have not seen it taking effect on the people of Tibet. Though the Dalai Lama has resigned from his political powers, but his spiritual position over the people takes precedence still. So what’s the big deal for Dalai Lama to resign politically when he knows that he can still use his spiritual authorities over the people and even affect political decisions.
Yes, politically Dr Lobsang Sangye only has jurisdiction over 1/3 of Tibetans. The other 2/3 which is 4 million are Dorje Shugden practitioners. These Dorje Shugden practitioners have been labeled as pariah of the country and are not entitled to benefits of any sort from CTA. How will Dr Lobsang Sangye protect these Tibetans? If you are a leader, would you appreciate anyone splitting your people when the power has been given to you to lead? Why would Dalai Lama, a Spiritual Leader deprive his people of even the most basic benefits such as education, social welfare, medical aid etc.. just because they are Dorje Shugden practitioners? Seriously, what’s the point of putting Dr Lobsang Sangye in power when his hands are pretty much tied up?
Dr. Lobsang Sangye is a well-educated scholar, a graduate from the elite school of Harvard. I would like to think a man who has been exposed to human rights in the West would have little to zero tolerance for inequality and persecutions of any sort.I would like to think that if this ban was not put in place to start with, Dr. Lobsang Sangye would never have created it himself! Wouldn’t any modern, 21st century leader want to be known for promoting what is popular… which are human rights, equality, great benefits for the citizens etc?
From a secular side, Dr. Lobsang Sangye certainly is equipped to run the country. But will he be “allowed” by the Dalai Lama to do his job? Should Tibetans answer to Dalai Lama or their new political leader? I think the success and the future of Tibetans now lies in the hands of Tibetans themselves. Tibetans have voted for their leader. Why not let him do his job. It is time for Tibetans to do their own research to dispel any myths where this ban draw powers from. This ban has no valid basis and must be lifted.
Midakpa
February 15, 2012
I wonder, with the appointment of a secular Prime Minister, whether the whole government administrative structure has changed or it remains the same, with the Prime Minister in charge of the secular segment of the government. The structure is very complex because the religious and secular affairs are intricately intertwined. For example, the religious segment of the administration also deals with the appointment of monk officials who have to handle secular matters, so the religious component of the Dalai Lama’s government overlaps the secular.
Question 1: As I said before, the chief executives in the religious sector also dominates the secular sector. So it is not surprising that the authority of the monk officials are also extended into the area of secular affairs.
Question 2: It is important, in the modern world, to separate the religious and the secular powers. In fact, the two are as different as black and white”. Politics and religion must not mix. If the constitution of the Tibetan Government has not been changed to reflect the different functions of the religious and secular sectors, it is high time this is done. It will make the role of the Prime Minister clearer and easier to fulfil.
Question 3: If the constitution (if there is one) protects the rights of the people of Tibet, including their religious rights, Dorje Shugden practitioners should have nothing to fear. If the Tibetan Government practices universal human rights, it will gain the respect and support of the world.
Question 4: In the future, the Tibetan Government should always remain secular and protect the rights of their people including that of religious worship. Religious affairs can come under one ministry or department. This department doesn’t have to have a dominant role which interferes with secular affairs. Therefore, it means removing a lot of the secular (political) functions of the high monk officials. In other words, let the monks do their monk duties.
To sum up, I think the Dalai Lama is going in the right direction. To change a system that had been in place for centuries is slow and difficult. I have been observing the Dorje Shugden crisis for years and I think it is high time the ban is lifted. It doesn’t make sense in the modern world where basic human rights should be respected and upheld.
Dolce Vita
February 15, 2012
Dalai Lama always says he is a simple Buddhist monk, he promotes very strongly on respect, harmony and peace. But ironically, while he was ‘ruling’ Tibet, he issued a ban on Dorje Shugden practice that has caused disharmony and separation among the Tibetan community. What he was doing seem to be in conflict with what he was saying. He is believed to be Chenrezig, the Buddha of Compassion, how can a Buddha of Compassion be harming people? I personally think he is a Buddha. Thus, he must have his reasons to issue the ban. And one thing for sure, because of his ban on Dorje Shugden practice, news on Dorje Shugden were all over the media in Western worlds, including 2 of the very influential countries, United States and Germany. As a result, Tibetan Buddhism is known all over the world. Could it be his skillful way of spreading the Dharma and to put an imprint onto people? Those people who are killed or suffered in this whole Dorje Shugden episode must have been due to their Karmas or they might have made some very strong prayers in their past lives to protect and spread Dharma even if it means sacrificing their lives.
As for the current political situation, since the new leader is not a religious figure anymore, he should run the administration office the secular way. If Tibetan demands independence and democracy, the new political leader should treat Dorje Shugden equally as the rest of the Tibetan. If they want other countries to support their ‘free tibet’ campaign, shouldn’t the Central Tibetan Administration free the Shugden practitioner first? While they are claiming Chinese Government does not respect their human right, they themselves are not respecting the human right of the Shugden practitioners either. If democracy is what CTA is asking for, then lift the ban first.
Tenzin K
February 15, 2012
Looking from a non-Tibetan point of view, below are my comments:
Q1:
Looking back before the ban, there never be an issue with the practice of this great protector and HHDL is a highly respected religious leader who always consistently promoting basic human values or secular ethics in the interest of human happiness and the fostering of inter-religous harmony.
A man whose awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989 for his non-violent struggle for the liberation of Tibet.
HHDL receive this holy practice from his root Guru HH Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche in 1959, prior to the Chinese takeover.
For such a great master to put a ban and seeing so much suffering, it’s confusing and it doesn’t make sense to me as the action was not representing HHDL action at all with such a reputation, how can it be suddenly change 180 degree?….it make me think deeper, in my opinion, he is on something that to be manifest much bigger in result in a period of time.
The Dalai Lamas are believed to be manifestations of Avalokiteshvara or Chenrezig, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. This is the 14th reincarnation. Has it been wrong all this while and why now?…
Look at the progress of Lord Shugden practitioners now a day….from the ban it spread outside of Tibet much wider and fast. The force from inside pushes the growth at outside and it grow even bigger, wider and more appreciated. This is what I see…..and I believe it would be more and greater.
Q3 & Q4:
As now Dalai Lama has passed his secular power to the first Prime Minister is a sign that for Lord Shugden practitioners and the Tibetan people approach him. I feel that the time is slowly come in and this could be the first light shown.
He is a secular leader, Lord Shugden practitioners need not relate him as Spiritual Guru or Dharma teacher. The relationship is just like the ordinary citizen with the politician for the country.
Personally to me this is the time. After so long of tortures be it mentally or physically, the practitioners should gathered the energy. The approach is very secularly and is to be treated just like other democracy country despite of the religions practice, it’s human right and democracy. Lord Shugden practitioners should get the same treatment as others.
This will be a good start for the freedom or harmonious for the people.
Following with the next elected prime minister after Dr. Lobsang Sangye and the following subsequent in the next future, it will be the same message and if this round it work with Dr Lobsang Sangye, a foundation of understanding has been made and is definitely a good start and hope the practitioners and the people in Tibet.
Reena Searl
February 15, 2012
Personally think that when HHDL took charged in both secular & spiritual matters of
Tibet We have not seen the improvement of relationship between China and Tibet.
The transfer of political powers by the Dalai Lama to Dr. Lobsang Sangye may see the result or effect when timing is right. China always wants to create UNITY & HARMONY image to the world, including Tibet’s issue. Through Dr Lobsang Sangye, a layman PM, he is the bridge between China & Tibet, also the spoke person for HHDL between China & Tibet. Eventually, Dr. Lobsang Sangye’s role in secular matter may even create a mutual understanding between HHDL & China’s government. Maybe, That’s the time that DS’s ban will be lifted. So, I think HHDL is in the right direction.
HHDL as a spiritual leader in Tibet , he can Influence to end violent in Tibet, Through Dr Lobsang Sangye allow to speak directly to the chinese government, to reach the public directly
to show peace & harmony directly
China government always want to project Tibet as unity, HHDL certainly sees the point that government wants HHDL to use his influence to end the WAR between two parties through peaceful method, the step down of HHDL in secular matters, eventually there will be trust between chinese and tibet and that will help in lifting the ban of Dorje Shugden.
berry
February 15, 2012
The Dalai Lama has reason to do so because Dalai Lama is a political and religious administration. Dorje Shugden practitioner with action to prove that only practice dorje shugden, no political motives. the Dorje Shugden practitioner close to the new leaders Dr Lobsang Sangyebecause they just want Dr Lobsang Sangye to understand in 2011 the era of religion, freedom of choice. Is no longer the era of management by the political and religious. Is a new leader of the Tibetan refugees and also is the people’s political leaders. Only the leaders of the people, not a Buddhist teacher, and religion does not matter, just as a political leader. Dorje Shugden practitioner only is normal people. Dr … treat them as relationship between leaders and the people only. Yes, because he is not the same as with the Dalai Lama. DR Lobsang Sangye only a political leader. Not a religious leaders, this should not affect the relationship of the new leader and the people.
Big Uncle
February 16, 2012
These very questions have been the very core reason why this website was born and why this forum has so many active members participating and many more members that are silently reading these posts in search of news and solace. I think the only reason why many of us have not lost faith in the Dalai Lama completely is because of the wise and prophetic words of the late Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche in personal advice and in his written works such as this:-
“But some who are narrow minded, not understanding this point, consider this Dharmapala to be like an ordinary worldly being and, with supposed faith in the Dalai Lama and the Panchen Lama, disparage him; or else they indeed admire this great Dharmapala but criticize the Dalai Lama or Panchen Lama. Using either one as a reason not to admire the other and speaking badly about either in any way is the conduct of an ordinary being who, under the influence of attachment and hatred, just tries to help friends and hurt enemies; it obscures the increase of these great holy Aryas’ deeds and creates the karmic cause to experience unbearable suffering in the future.”
- Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche’s advice in Music Delighting The Ocean Of Protectors, 1967
I think his advice is pretty clear and is somewhat difficult for us to fathom its depths right now but it brings a new perspective that what the Dalai Lama is doing is perhaps for a greater purpose. We have to realize that the Dalai Lama had renounced secular power in favor of a democratic elections, which places the power of the government into the people’s hands. This is not an easy transition from absolute rule of a theocratic leader to a democracy but it is happening already. The first ever elected secular prime minister (Kalon Tripa) was elected, Dr Lobsang Sangye. This has far-reaching consequences if the Tibetan leaders take matters into their own hands.
Hence, it is the Kalon Tripa’s prerogative along with his elected ministers or Kalons as the Tibetans calls them, to ensure that the constitution separates secular and religious policies. The state should only endorse and enforce secular authority and nothing else. Like I mentioned in other posts, religious policies, particularly those the segregate and separate segments of society like the Dorje Shugden ban should be discarded as soon as possible.
At the very least, religious edicts like the ban on Dorje Shugden should be left to monastic leaders of individual great monasteries. Their jurisdiction only applies to those within the walls of the monastery. Therefore, the appearance of a weak and fragmented Tibetan society due to this ban is detrimental to the Tibetan cause. When there’s no unity, how can the Tibetans reclaim Tibet proper and call for independence?
So, what do you expect the thousands of Dorje Shugden worshippers to do? Due to the segregation and inevitable abuse they received, many have fled Tibetan circles and prefer to reside within the safety and confines of Indian society or those with financial capability, they will flee overseas. This will erode Tibetan society and it will mean that many more within Tibetan settlements will do the same. Does the Central Tibetan Administration want to see that happen? Do these Tibetan leaders want to see the last remnants of the proud Tibetan nation collapse and get watered down in foreign lands due to this ban? That is the more important question I feel.
lotus1
February 16, 2012
Thank you for the article and questions.
Q1: Firstly, religious affairs should not be mixed with secular affairs especially on politic. From the religious point of view, his Holiness the Dalai Lama has his right to not allowing people to come to his talk. I respect his decision. However, as the secular leader, the Dalai Lama should maintain an unbiased concern for all citizens of the nations under him and let them have the freedom in choosing their own religion. The DS practitioners have been very devoted to their Gurus and teachings, very innocent and do not harm anyone. From the secular point of view, they should not be discriminated, attacks, denied any of the welfare, voting rights or privileges that all citizens of a country should be equally entitled to. Besides as a Nobel Prize Winner for World Peace, HH is also viewed as the emanation of Chenrezig with great compassion qualities. It is really making no sense! Therefore I agree with several comments earlier regarding HH should have done it for a bigger picture.
Q2: Now that HH has passed his secular power to the first Prime minister of Tibetans, Dr. Lobsang Sangye, I would believe this would be a good move to separate secular from religious affairs. Dr Lobsang as the secular leader of all the Tibetans, I would urge him to seriously takes this opportunity to look into lifting the bans. Please treat all the people under him equally in terms of education, welfare, religious, voting rights, privileges and rights for being a citizen of Tibetans.
Q3: As for how the Tibetan Dorge Shugden practitioners related to Dr. Lobsang Sangye, it should be no difference than the relationship between the citizen and his/her political leader from any other democratic country. The secular leaders should lead and take care of the welfare and basic human rights for all his people as well as protecting them.
Q4: In future, the relationship between DS practitioners and all the future prime ministers should be just like what it is mentioned in Q3. If Tibet wants to grow and be independent, this is the first steps that they should do, i.e. to show that the secular leaders and government are democratic and treat all the people equally regardless of their religious practice! Please CTA, wake up and please stop all the ridiculous actions towards DS practitioners!!!
May the ban be lifted and the DS practitioners can live in an normal life and exercise their rights as a human!!!
sisjenny
February 16, 2012
In his persistence in banning D S practice, H.H the Dalai Lama has on the contrary, cause the promotion n spread of D S teachings everywhere .Like others, I think H H has ab purpose in banning D S practice .The worst is that he has com holder of the Gelubined the role of being a spiritual leader n a secular leader in the Tibetan government ,thus making himself appear as a very unfair n undemocratic leader. Being an emanation of Chenrizig .Buddha of compassion ,he would not want to harm anyone. Furthermore, as a holder of the Gelug lineage ,he would hold deep seated Guru devotion to his gurus namely Trijiang Rinpoche n Ling Rin poche
poche who had fervently practised D S .Therefore by banning the practice of D S Is enigmatic of him. Now He is taking the brunt of international criticism. N ow he is indirectly causing the spread of D S teachings spearheaded by prominent dharma masters such as Geshe Kelsang Gyatso n the Panchen
la ma.
With the surrendering of his role as a secular leader on appointment of Dr Lobsang Sangye,a layman,
as the new Tibetan P M , H.H the Dalai Lama should only concentrate on religious matters. However, the new P.M. Is seen to toe the line of H .H. , prohibiting the spread of D.S. ,so the new P.M. ,an unqualified spiritual leader, is not addressing undemocratic stand of the C T A . Ironically, he will cause D.S. Promoters such as the Panchen Lama to strengthen ties with China n to further propagate the cause of D.S. To benefit all sentient beings.
,In future , Tibetan D.S. Practitioners ,especially those who settle in foreign countries will break from the central government if their continuous fight for better happier relationship with the Tibetan government is rejected. Thaey will serve their host nations better by creating peace n harmony through the spread of D.S. Teachings n practice.
Dekyi
February 16, 2012
Sounds weird that HHDL don’t allow people to attend his talks no matter is in religion level or secular level. We understand and respect HHDL has his right to not allow people to his talk but why in secular way they are not allow too? I think it might be has a BIGGER picture behind it.
This is good that now His Holiness the Dalai Lama has passed his secular power to the first Prime minister of Tibetans, Dr. Lobsang Sangye. So that PM can restructure because Dr. Lobsang Sangye is a a layman who was newly and democratically elected and not a Spiritual Guru or Dharma teacher.
All the Tibetan Dorje Shugden practitioners should maintain friendly relationship with Prime minister. And Prime minister have to management of political affairs and non-interference in peoples’ religious and to ensure that the people will not be treated unfairly.
May the DS ban be lifted and DS practitioners living in the free country and religious freedom.
Tenzin Malgyur
February 16, 2012
Dear Admin of dorjeshugden.com,
This letter that you have written gives a very detailed and clear summary on the situation Shugden practitioners are going through in India. Instead of having demostrations and protests which serves to bring the bad situation worse, hopefully it will affect the decisions of policy makers now that HHDL is no longer the leader of all secular affairs of the Tibetans. Please send it to more leaders and people all over the world. May the Shugden practitioners be able to continue with their practice and still be able to live in their community without being ostracised soon.
Bambi
February 16, 2012
Dear Admin,
Yes you made very logical statements and questions above. It is also very easy for people to understand especially those who are new and confused. Imagine the government in the country you live in ‘force’ you to follow the religion that they set. Or else you are not allowed to do anything because you do not have any rights at all as a result of not following their ‘rules’. I agree that secular and spiritualism should NOT be mixed together. I guess HH is tired of people going against Him so might as well get someone to take His place. Now they have someone who has NO say in what the Tibetans believe in or do. What gives CTA the rights now as they are only responsible for the Tibetans best interests and not what religion they believe in. PLEASE send this to the CTA and hear what they have to say! I pray CTA are reading this so they know what we have to say to them.
Q
February 16, 2012
I’m not pro-DL nor am I pro-DS… so I have been looking at the situation in a very neutral perspective.
I don’t think the DL is trying to cause distress, although it is questionable on HH’s method which is to ban the practice of DS… but due to the ban, Buddhism has reached far and wide around the world… solely due to the fact that the ultimate ban that was instilled by the DL was so tight that in order for DS practitioners to continue their practice, they either have to migrate away or seek help/aid from external sources. We can’t deny that much pain, bitterness and suffering was resulted from this ban, but many people have come to know and took interest about Buddhism since.
When the DL represented Tibet as both a spiritual and secular leader, although logically i would think that it is very unfair for HH to not allow DS practitioners to attend any of his talks especially when HH preaches on freedom of religion, unity and peace… however, if i was to think in a Buddhist perspective, HH being Chenrezig himself… any of his talks whether it is on Buddhist teachings or for secular purposes, it is Dharma, as Dharma is HH vv.
But things changed, like always… And now that HH is no longer in charge of secular measures, just like any Lama, he is permitted and respected to determine the crowd of his audience. So here, HH not allowing DS practitioners into his teachings is not really an issue.
Since HH is no longer involved in secular work for CTA, the ban for DS practitioners should only be restricted to anything that circulate around religion. Personally, I thought that things would get better, as government will give support to their people despite their religious believes. However, it seems that it is not the case. The new PM, Lobsang Sangye did not correct the situation and continued to deny meetings with DS practitioners on a secular level. Here, even a blind person can see his selectiveness and bias ruling. When such a thing is done by a PM of a nation, it is a direct breach of trust between him and his people since as a PM he have vowed to care for the interest of all his people despite their differences. How can anyone trust a PM that rules his PEOPLE’S country based SOLELY on HIS OWN PERSONAL BELIEVES AND AGENDA? How?
Previously being in a Autonomy ruling, such treatment towards citizens may be shunned by outsiders, but escapeable… however, being a democratic nation, there are certain sets of rules that must be followed according to the standards set by top leaders of the world, and one such regulations surrounds ‘Human Rights’ and freedom of expression. For Tibet to be a nation that can rise up; unity and peace among their people is essential – which is something that seems very far reached at the moment, even though HH preaches on world peace and freedom so very often.
Correction on the ruling should be done NOW before it becomes a standard practice in their ‘government’… which will then be difficult to over-rule and cause more sufferings to many generations to come.
tsangpakarpo
February 16, 2012
It is really sad to see this happening. In my opinion, as the leader of Tibet irregardless of spiritual or secular, the Dalai Lama SHOULD NOT DISALLOW Dorje Shugden practitioners to his talks or activities. I have seen videos of Dalai Lama’s talks where people of other faith/religions participate in the activities…if these people are allowed, then why the discrimination against Dorje Shugden practitioners? What more the practitioners are of the same religion, practicing Buddhism. This does not really make sense in my opinion.
Especially on the secular level, the Dalai Lama is revered to have the utmost compassion as He is considered an emanation of Avalokiteshava, so it is really mind bogging to see His Holiness denying Dorje Shugden practitioners of basic necessities ie medical, schooling, and so on.
As I consider the Dalai Lama as a Buddha, perhaps He has a different motivation I do not know of. Obviously I cannot comment further on this.
BUT now since the Dalai Lama has let go of his secular leadership and passed on to the Prime Minister to take over, the discrimination against Dorje Shugden practitioners still continues…perhaps the CTA is taking advantage of the silence to continue on with their discrimination? I feel there is a need for the Dorje Shugden practitioners to stand up to propose to the CTA to redeem their rights as the citizens of Tibet. With one person, it will be hard but when all practitioners stand up together, the chances are much higher.
Of course, practitioners from all over the world should also lend a helping hand to ensure the Tibetan practitioners regain their rights as citizens of Tibet although in exiled. There are many things we can do for example, write to the CTA, organize PEACEFUL protests just to name a few.
The current Prime Minister should also step up to realize that the discrimination HAS TO STOP! He is not a religious leader, as mentioned in the article above, HE IS THE PRIME MINISTER of the Tibetan community. Can you name any Prime Ministers or leaders around the world who do not take care of their citizens? Very weird isn’t it? In the United States and I believe most countries in the world, we have religious freedom. Why can’t it be the same in Tibet where when we mention the name TIBET, the first thought in people’s minds is SPIRITUALITY.
The Prime Minister should really make corrective measures as soon as possible! Tibetans who practice Dorje Shugden have been denied their rights for far too long. They have suffered both physically and mentally.
I believe when Dr Lobsang Sangye achieves this, all the Prime Ministers after him will follow suit when they see the benefits of it – HARMONY and UNITY! Separating the citizens will only increase the damage but uniting all will provide a gateway for greater peace and respect for Tibet.
berry
February 16, 2012
The Dalai Lama has reason to do so because Dalai Lama is a political and religious administration. Dorje Shugden practitioner with action to prove that only practice dorje shugden, no political motives. the Dorje Shugden practitioner close to the new leaders Dr Lobsang Sangyebecause they just want Dr Lobsang Sangye to understand in 2011 the era of religion, freedom of choice. Is no longer the era of management by the political and religious. Is a new leader of the Tibetan refugees and also is the people’s political leaders. Only the leaders of the people, not a Buddhist teacher, and religion does not matter, just as a political leader. Dorje Shugden practitioner only is normal people. Dr … treat them as relationship between leaders and the people only. Yes, because he is not the same as with the Dalai Lama. DR Lobsang Sangye only a political leader. Not a religious leaders, this should not affect the relationship of the new leader and the people
Lawrence L
February 16, 2012
The history proved to us, mixing secular and religious up never brings true peace.
For the point number one: Yes, the Dalai Lama is still the leader of all the Tibetans. Regardless what the Tibetans’s belief or practice. As a leader, he/she should take care of the welfare of all the people, and why the Dalai Lama selectively take care of people in this issue? Moreover the Dalai Lama is a monk who practice compassion!
Point number two: The Tibetans are really in a harsh situation. Even at the secular level, they can’t live their life well just because of their belief is different from the Dalai Lama. I really can’t imagine how the Tibetans are going to survive well at there without having any interaction with the authority. People in America has different religion or belief, but this doesn’t stop them for meeting the Obama. So do other coutries in this world!
Point number three: Since Dr. Lobsang Sangye was just newly and democratically elected as a Prime Minister, i guess the Tibetans who practice Dorje Shugden vote for him and trust him don’t they? So the newly Prime Minister for no doubt has to take care of all the Tibetans and make a good relationship with all the people. This is regardless Buddhism or compassion, this is just a purely politic’s way of game!
Point number four: Everyone deserves to live freely, safely and happily. Im really concerned for the Tibetans who practice Dorje Shugden. What will happen in the future? I urge the CTA to think wise and make good decision! This is not a religion game, this is about people’s life and welfare. Secular and religious must not mixed up!
diamond girl
February 16, 2012
This article and these 4 pertinent questions highlight the irony of the entire ban of Dorje Shugden. Yes, as a spiritual leader there is the issue of “samaya” thus when Tibetans choose to practice DS they “can” be removed from the Lama. However, how about non-spiritual matters? Why should they have to be ex-communicated, ostracized, and the basic human rights removed? Aren’t these the rights of any human being irregardless of religious practice?
Now that the Prime Minister Dr. Lobsang Sangye is a secular man. He should not let religious matters interfere with his administration of a non-religious government. Governments should always be independent of religion, this is a proven formula in many countries. By virtue of humanity, he should not allow his people to be divided and suffer due to this Ban. No leader should have unrest and disharmony in their country. He should by right be ensuring this Ban is lifted. He should have the independent authority to do this.
Buddhism is one religion which never started any wars, and it should remain this way. This Ban creates unrest and disharmony which is the same result as war.