HIS HOLINESS THE 17th GYALWANG KARMAPA OGYEN TRINLEY DORJE
 
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The 17th Gyalwang Karmapa, May 28, 2010 Live webcast - TRANSCRIPT
Since 2500 yrs. ago Buddha's teachings still exist tonight I'll be speaking about dharma as taught by the buddha Not only the buddha dharma but all the great religions of this world and other spiritual traditions have been a great help to lots of people to bring happiness and peace to their minds and to this world and to live harmoniously in this society. especially the buddha dharma is based on the understanding of interdependence and compassion being the root of these teachings. not just philosophy but it has been something that helps to bring humans together with other sentient beings too So when we talk about interdependence, we humans in order to survive depend on water, breathing, food, dress and basic needs which are also dependent on many things. this doesn't come as soon as we are born. we don't get them without an effort. we need positive relationships, and conditions that are right. good conditions and aspects depends on many things. therefore humans have to depend on other things, interdependence is not without effort, or causes and conditions. cycle of causes and conditions, karma, or interdependence. the main understanding is, that we survive by depending on other things. Based on this, Buddha Shakyamuni taught the view. Humans have the capacity to know what to accept and what to get rid of. those things that we need to depend on, we have a system of understanding what to do and not do. but not broadly, lots of things are not included in that system of what to do and what not to do. animals are being killed, we don't understand what is best to do about that or with the environment around us, also because the system doesn't include this. our understanding is based only on our own personal experience. when we feel pain, then we understand what to do, but its based on self-centeredness. its important we need to try to bring this understanding to a broader circle. therefore if you can do that, we can bring this benefit of knowing what is right or wrong to other sentient beings on this earth, to the whole universe. when we talk about moral ethics, we're talking about responsibility that we carry and feel ourselves. not just as philosophy but that we are able to place others in others place, as if it is our own feeling. especially loving kindness and compassion. its like that. i don't want to experience suffering or pain, i want to feel happiness and bliss, and everyone else feels like that too. but when these things are happening to other people we don't feel it as well. what we try to experience with loving kindness and compassion is to experience others as if they were ourselves. others have pain, we experience it as if it is happening to ourselves so we can understand their lives and generate loving kindness within ourselves. People when they think that we should be concerned about the happiness and unhappiness of other people. sometimes they see it as difficult. they see that suffering is the final thing, the result, at the end. we should not see suffering or pain as final answer but as a question. for instance, we have some problems, a new situation, not that we should just feel hopeless, this is it, nothing to do. we can take it as a new thing, alternative, and have new courage on how to find knowledge or different way of understanding and questioning it. these 2 different ways of looking at suffering are important to distinguish. one sees suffering as final, the other sees how can i do something with my courage to overcome this? this concerns my own suffering as well as the suffering of others. taking it as a test as to how to carry this understanding into our experience is important. many people think that happiness and satisfaction is something that has to come from getting rid of suffering, or big problems, and to get something big and satisfying and a great result or achievement, and only when we get that do we get happiness. i feel thats not the case. we have to understand our true nature is our peace and happiness. to remain in that regular way of being is our happiness. we don't have to get rid of big negative things to be happy. for instance, we breathe everyday, every moment. if we don't breathe, we can't live. what we breathe is oxygen. its not automatic. its happening because of causes and conditions and steps so we can breathe. breathing isn't accidental, it comes from causes and conditions. that we can live is amazing. we have to feel happy that we can do that. in our lives, its not possible we have no suffering and even if it is, that time will change and problems will come. its possible we are suffering, and that will change too. it's normal. what we have to understand is the way things are. in a more relaxed way, let ourselves calm down and feel more natural and satisfied with what we are. generally everything changes, but nature doesn't change. our happiness changes, unhappiness changes, but the nature of both doesn't change. important we rest in the way things as they are. for example, when you go to the office, and are in a traffic jam and are late. we can get angry and if we allow ourselves to be carried away by this emotion, we can create more suffering. but whether big or small situation, the situation is not the main thing. how much we focus on it, or react to it, in what way we react to that is the most important. important for everyone to bring peace to our minds, and that means let our mind be. rest in what is. we don't allow ourselves to be carried away by sudden emotion or reaction, but let our mind rest as it is. thats the only way to bring happiness to our mind, there's no other way. Today is the full moon day of saga dawa, yesterday was too, so on this occasion I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all of you who have very patiently been able to listen to what I have to say, and especially I'd like to thank my friends in Europe. I should have been in Europe by now, but it didn't happen as we planned. However my mind and my speech could arrive through this medium so therefore I'm happy. The full moon that is in space is enjoying everyone and I hope everyone in the world will be able to enjoy the loving kindness and compassion here. I express my grateful wishes and thanks to all of you.
"BACK TO THE FUTURE" - the Newsweek-Interview with The 17th Karmapa (click the link below)
http://www.newsweek.com/id/237177?from=rss&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=fe
Karmapa's Personal request: Sangha Dedications to survivors and deceased victims of Qinghai earthquake
To the Source of Refuge, the Ocean-like Assembly of Sangha: As you know, a devastating earthquake recently struck the area of Yushu in Tso-ngön [Qinghai Province]. The earthquake took the lives of tens of thousands of humans and animals and left many survivors with serious injuries and intense physical and mental trauma. On top of all of this, Thrangu Monastery saw the destruction of its temple and its precious contents, as well as the deaths of several members of the monastic community. In short, the region and its inhabitants have undergone unbearable loss. Please think of both the survivors and the deceased with love and fondness. I humbly request you to thoroughly pray for them and dedicate your virtues to them with a heart of great compassion.
The Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, April 26, 2010
Message from the Gyalwang Karmapa in Response to Devastating Earthquake Striking the Region of Yushu in Tso-ngön (Qinghai Province) April 14, 2010
I was extremely saddened to hear of the catastrophic loss of human life and the severe destruction caused by the recent earthquake in the region of Yushu in Tso-ngön (Qinghai Province). I am now leading a group of Kagyü monasteries in India, Nepal, Bhutan, and other areas in prayers and virtuous
activities dedicated to the deceased, so that their fears of the transitions between life and death may be eased. I am also offering prayers for any great
masters from all the Tibetan spiritual lineages whose lives may have been lost.
I am holding the survivors of this tragedy in my thoughts as well, and I hope that aid quickly reaches them. By bearing witness to the harshness of
cyclic existence, may we all be able to extend our effort in meaningful ways, for the sake of both the living and the dead. I offer my deeply heartfelt aspiration that all affected by this calamity will see the swift easing of the pain of separation from those they love.
The Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje
April 14, 2010
ANNOUNCEMENT FROM KARMAPA'S OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATION - RE: SIGNATURE CAMPAIGN "FREE HIS HOLINESS THE KARMAPA"
April 23, 2010: It has come to the attention of His Holiness the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa and Tsurphu Labrang (the Office of Karmapa's Administration) that a signature campaign to a global petition, addressed to the Government of India under the heading "Free His Holiness the Karmapa", is being circulated on the internet.
In this petition some false accusations are made. While it is true that the proposed Karmapa's Dharma tour to Europe in mid-May was not approved, it is not correct that the Karmapa is kept under any confinement or duress in India nor is he under any harassment. Therefore, His Holiness the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa and Tsurphu Labrang categorically deny these unfounded accusations.
Ever since His Holiness's arrival in India in 2000, the Karmapa has received every kindness and consideration from the Government and the people of India. He is allowed free movement throughout the country except to a few border areas.
The Karmapa and Tsurphu Labrang are grateful for all the generosity, kindness and assistance received from the people and the Government of India.
Lama Phuntsok, Director for Information & Communication, Tsurphu Labrang (HH the Karmapa's Office of Administration)
Gyuto Tantrac University, Dharamshala, H.P., India
Europe-Tour-Rejection: Statement from the XVII. Gyalwang Karmapa
I know that the Co-ordinator of Karmapa in Europe 2010, has already notified everyone that my proposed visit has had to be cancelled for reasons beyond my control. I was very much looking forward to meeting with my European students, visiting your dharma centres, giving teachings, and having the opportunity to gain first-hand experience and insight into the great variety of European life and culture.
I was wholeheartedly preparing for this visit so you will understand that I too was sad and disappointed when I learned that I would not be able to come this time. However, I hope that this is merely a temporary setback and that I will definitely be able to visit Europe in the near future.
It remains for me to express my gratitude to Ringu Tulku and all of you in the different countries and dharma centres who have worked so hard to prepare for the visit. Please be assured that your work has not been in vain or wasted. By these efforts, you have planted a powerful seed and when it reaches fruition my intention to come to Europe will be fulfilled.
Meanwhile, my aspiration and vision remain firm. I am determined to follow in the footsteps of the 16th Gyalwang Karmapa, renewing connections with long-standing students and forging a closer relationship with all my European friends, past, present and future.
XVII. Gyalwang Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje,
Gyuto Tantric University, Himachal Pradesh, India
7th April, 2010
Announcement from The Karmapa's Office of Administration with regards to Canceled European Tour
April 20, 2010: The Karmapa's Office of Administration (Tsurphu Labrang) would like to express its sincerest regrets and sadness that the Dharma tour program of His Holiness the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa to Europe could not take place for reasons which have not yet been disclosed. We understand that this has created a lot of disappointment and frustration. However, we would like to request the many followers and devotees of His Holiness to take heart and not cast aspersion on any organization or government body for the cancellation of the tour.
We wish to thank the Government of India for all the assistance, hospitality and kindness that His Holiness Gyalwang Karmapa has received after his arrival to India in the year 2000. We also thank Ven. Ringu Tulku and the organizers of the Europe Dharma Tour who have put in a lot of time and effort for many months in spite of their busy schedule and other commitments.
His Holiness' announcement has said, "I hope that this is merely a temporary setback and that I will definitely be able to visit Europe in the near future." Remembering this, we urge all to remain calm and collected.
Lama Phuntsok
Director for Information & Communication, Tsurphu Labrang (HH the Karmapa's Office of Administration)
Dear Dharma Friends, I am sad to announce that the proposed visit of His Holiness the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorji was not approved by the Government of India. The visit was scheduled to take place from 27th May to 2nd July in nine countries of Europe. The Kagyu Office, the Administration of Gyalwang Karmapa was informed of the decision by the Tibetan Government in Exile on 3rd April 2010. The process has begun to find out why this visit was not possible and what positive conditions are needed to make the visit possible in near future. I know a huge number of followers and friends in Europe were eagerly waiting for the visit of Gyalwang Karmapa and I know that all of you are sad and disappointed. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the organizers, volunteers and donors for working so hard to prepare for the visit in last many months. Your cooperation and support were beyond any expectations. I hope and pray together with you that the visit will happen in very near future and that all of us would be able to receive his teachings in Europe. Ringu Tulku,
Coordinator Karmapa's Visit to Europe
His Holiness The Karmapa is considered one of the most important Tibetan Lamas after His Holiness The Dalai Lama and regarded as promising hope for the survival of Tibetan Buddhism and Culture.
THE LOGO PAINTED BY HIS HOLINESS THE KARMAPA
The key concept behind the logo is interdependence. The two human hands joined together represent interdependence, co-operation, unity, friendship, harmony and peace among all human beings. In addition one hand is green representing earth, and one hand is blue representing the sky; through these colours the ideas of interdependence, unity and harmony are extended to encompass the natural world and all sentient beings within it.
MESSAGE OF H.H. THE 17th KARMAPA TO EUROPE
In many countries in Europe there are numerous students connected with the Karma Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism and also many people who have a direct connection with the Karmapa. Many of them have been wishing and expecting me to come to Europe for twenty or thirty years. This has become a very important purpose in my life. Since my childhood I have kept it very strongly in my heart. This year there is a strong hope that I may be able to visit Europe and this is good news for me and those who have invited me. I hope and wish that this year all our expectations and aspirations to meet together in Europe will be fulfilled.
All the centres and students have been making preparations for a long time with prayers and aspirations that I will be coming there. I am very grateful to all of you. I am hoping and aspiring to visit Europe, not only this year but also many times in the future.
It’s very difficult to remember past lives. Although there could be countless past lives it is not necessary that we remember them because there are many complicated hurdles between lives and also much karmic obscuration. But when I was very young I used to look at many children’s books from Europe and, somewhat inspired by those, I sometimes had an experience of being in the natural environment of ancient Europe, where I was living in a very pleasant and happy way.
I think the most important thing is to follow in the footsteps of the 16th Karmapa. Whatever activities he started and imprints or impressions he left with his body, speech and mind in Europe and in the people of Europe, I wish to follow it up, continuing his activities and lay a good foundation in my students. This is my first wish.
And secondly, as a Buddhist leader living in the 21st century I also hope to work towards bringing not only outer material progress, but to bring inner happiness and well being to the people of this world, finding a way to create the outer developments as a means to develop inner peace and joy. This is where I place my hope and efforts.
It is not only that I like Western culture but I consider myself as someone who has a great love for Western civilization. Especially I have a great admiration for Western technology, poetry and many things that happened in Europe. The history of Europe is very moving to me and I am constantly studying it with great interest.
I believe that all religions are trying to bring all the people of the world out of the slumber of ignorance and bring them nearer to the facts of reality. I fully trust that the Christian religion like all others is also working towards sowing the seed of benefit and happiness towards the humanity. As a Buddhist and as a human being I consider love, kindness, affection towards one another and friendship to be some of the most important and natural qualities of human life. I think all religions are trying to work on developing these qualities in every being. I believe the religions are working on promoting positive conducts and inspirations of people and therefore I think they are certainly very beneficial.
I think the world is moving together very quickly. Communication is becoming very fast. Communication and understanding between east and west is growing and because of this movement, the concept that the whole world is one is now becoming clearer. Therefore it becomes very important for all of us to think about the whole world and try to work for the benefit of all. I also try to work as much as possible towards that goal. I think it is very much the need of the time for all of us to do so.
I don’t have any special aspiration to spread Buddhism. For those who have connections with the dharma then I have the responsibility and the duty to work to bring them the dharma practice; that is my responsibility. I am ready and waiting to give all my service and guidance to them according to dharma. Whether you call it dharma or not the main thing is to become a good person, to have good thoughts and positive actions; to become beneficial to all beings. Sometimes I feel that the name of religion or Buddhism is not very useful. That gives the impression that it is limited and exclusive.
This world is a very big family with thousands and thousands of beings and all of us are dependent on each other. It is important that we should respect and appreciate each other, recognizing each other’s importance.
We should try to create a world with kindness and love. I think in the future it is the responsibility of all of us to create a more equal and loving world. I would like to work towards that end with my best capacity. I think it is important for all of us to do the same.
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