DHARAMSHALA: Buddhist nuns from over 40 nunneries across India, Nepal and Bhutan made history by offering the first ever tenshug to Tibetan spiritual leader, His Holiness the Dalai Lama with representation from four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism and Bon tradition here at Dharamshala.
Over 875 nuns from nunneries across India, Nepal and Bhutan organised a long life prayer offering for His Holiness the Dalai Lama at Tsuglagkhang this morning.
Elated and buoyant, His Holiness the Dalai Lama said, “I am indeed happy that this offering is being made together by nuns of all five sects of Tibetan Buddhism. It is indeed applaudable”.
His Holiness stated admiringly the fact that there were now Tibetan Buddhist nuns who had earned Geshe degree, the highest level of scholarship-previously regarded only for monks.
“I am very proud of your achievement and encourage all of you to pursue the highest scholarship in Buddhist study. This is the 21st century and we need to understand the Buddha’s teachings in the light of reason. When we study, contemplate and practice the teachings, we need to do so on the basis of reason.”
He mentioned that in Tibet, Buddhism spread throughout the country, but many simply followed what had become customary on the basis of blind faith. “After coming to India and reviving monasteries and nunneries successfully, I encouraged monks and nuns to pursue study of Buddha’s teachings, root texts and the five great treatises”.
“In the beginning when I spoke about awarding Geshema degrees, some were doubtful. I clearly told them that Buddha had given equal opportunity for both men and women to pursue Gelongma, and so should be the case for Geshemas,” His Holiness said with enthusiasm.
“So continue your excellent work. Be resolute in carrying forward your study and service to Dharma. Although you have made grand offerings today; in essence, the most meaningful offering to me would be your unfaltering dedication and service,” he said.
He further said that although physically he was old, he feels inspired to continue his work for next 10 or 20 years.
The long life offering ceremony was attended by President Dr Lobsang Sangay, Chief Justice Commissioner Kargyu Dhondup, Speaker of Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, Justice Commissioners, kalons, Kalon Trisur Prof Samdong Rinpoche, members of Tibetan parliament, secretaries and officials of CTA.
Religous leaders including Sherpa Choje, Drekung Kabgyon, medium of Nechung oracle, Abbot of Namgyal Monastery and representatives of various Tibetan monasteries also graced the event.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama during the Life Long Prayer Offering ceremony organised by Nuns Remey Tenshug Executive Committee, 1 March 2018. Photo/Tenzin Phende/DIIR
Nuns representing five sects of Tibetan Buddhism carrying offerings during the long life offering ceremony for His Holiness the Dalai Lama, 1 March 2018. Photo/Tenzin Phende/DIIR
His Holiness the Dalai Lama greeting devotees after the Long Life Prayer Offering ceremony at Tsuglagkhang, 1 March 2018. Photo/Tenzin Phende/DIIR