Don’t Be Disenchanted -My Sharing (Setrap Retreat)
Kechara House is engaging in another Setrap retreat, this time to clear obstacles for the smooth manifestation of Kechara World Peace Centre or KWPC. They will be accumulating 1 million mantras, 108,000 serkym offerings and 54,000 prostrations to Lord Setrap, who is the Dharma protector of Kechara as well as Gaden Shartse Monastery.
The Kechara House Committee organised for the 1st day of the retreat to coincide with H.H the 14th Dalai Lama’s birthday, which is a very auspicious start.
I was also very happy that my student JJ Chong gave his first Dharma teaching on Setrap’s lineage, history, practice and benefits. JJ is only 26 and he has been with me for a number of years now. He has very strong Dharma imprints and I am very glad that he is starting to mature and turn into a beneficial person. Jj’s wonderful talk will be on a separate post. Please do listen to it.
I wanted to offer the retreatants the oral transmission of Setrap’s mantra, because it would benefit them much more to do the retreat with it. I received the mantra from my Guru Kensur Jampa Yeshe Rinpoche in Gaden and I am happy to be able to pass it on to my students. I also wanted to talk a little bit about the benefits of doing group retreat as well as a number of other topics, so I spoke them over the conference phone at KH1.
I spoke regarding a few thoughts:
1. How not to get disappointed over a period of time when doing work.
2. Based on individualising problems, we become angrier, depressed, bitter et al.
3. How not to give up on certain people if we really are serious on our practice.
4. How doing group retreats makes us think less of our own problems.
5. How group retreats/work at Kechara can increase altruism which can be applied everywhere.
6. Different types of retreats such as on subjects, on Yidam, or on a protector.
7. How to feel hope again after being bitter, angry, disenchanted and depressed.
One talk I gave over the phone to everyone, the other one, I showed up in person to share my thoughts. Both talks have been uploaded here. Please do take a serious listen and contemplate. I feel it can really help you wherever your mental state may be.
My students recorded my talk over the phone and you can listen to it by clicking on the box below:
or click here to watch on Youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MW2CX4Kzxbk
I was told that there were many people at KH1 that night. 72 people had registered for the retreat and they were very sincere in wanting to do this for KWPC. There were also a few people watching the live streaming of the event online. My students have set up an online live streaming channel at http://justin.tv/kechara and I am told it is quite popular. Personally I am not a big fan of technology or the Internet, but when it is used to benefit others and reach out to more people, then it serves the purpose.
So I decided to go there and pay them a surprise visit and also to give them more teachings. The best thing that we can give others is the Dharma and I was told that many people enjoyed my talk and were inspired by it. I am happy to know that.
The video of my visit is here and the continuation of the talk, watch it by clicking on the box below:
or click here to watch on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QS8xYQnItU0
KWPC will be an institution that will benefit so many people and there will definitely be obstacles due to our negative group karma. So retreats such as this will be very effective for purification – but we must develop a selfless mind in order for it to be effective. You will be able to learn and understand more from my talks.
Everyone who attends the retreat will gain benefit from the energies that the prayers will generate. To find out more please visit http://www.kechara.com/kechara-house/events/going-forward-with-setrap/
I thank the participants of the retreat. You make your time meaningful. I thank all those who prepared the videos/audios/uploading of this here, it really speeds things up for me and brings benefit to many.
Humbly,
Tsem Rinpoche
P.S. I will update the progress of the retreat here on this thread. Please check back every few days.
July 14, 2010
RETREAT UPDATES
6 July
72 attendees
Serkym = 1,512
Mantra = 7,200
Prostrations = 0
7 July
42 attendees
Serkym = 8,400 (cumulative: 9,912)
Mantra = 75,600 (cumulative: 82,800)
Prostration = 2,300 (cumulative: 2,300)
8 July
31 attendees
Serkym = 6,537 (cumulative: 16,449)
Mantra = 78,300 (cumulative: 161,100)
Prostration = 7,307 (cumulative: 9,607)
9 July
28 attendees
Serkym = 2,800 (cumulative: 19,249)
Mantra = 22,900 (cumulative: 184,000)
Prostration = 4,167 (cumulative: 13,774)
10 July
43 attendees
Serkym = 23,200 (cumulative: 42,449)
Mantra = 142,200 (cumulative: 326,200)
Prostration = 3,083 (cumulative: 16,857)
11 July
Prostration = 1,826 (cumulative: 18,683)
12 July
69 attendees
Serkym = 28,600 (cumulative: 71,049)
Mantra = 133,500 (cumulative: 459,700)
Prostration = 6,800 (cumulative: 25,483)
13 July
49 attendees
Serkym = 22,400 (cumulative: 93,449)
Mantra = 102,900 (cumulative: 562,600)
Prostration = 6,302 (cumulative: 31,785)
14 July
33 attendees
Serkym = 22,400 (cumulative: 111,552)
Mantra = 208,008 (cumulative: 770,608)
Prostration = 8,990 (cumulative: 40,775)
* Kechara Southern Jewel Chapel (KSJC) from Johor Bahru has contributed 600 prostrations count today
15 July
43 attendees
Serkym = 5,184 (cumulative: 116,736)
Mantra = 260,388 (cumulative: 1,030,996)
Prostration = 9,002 (cumulative: 49,777)
* Kechara Southern Jewel Chapel (KSJC) from Johor Bahru has contributed 200 prostrations count today
16 July
Serkym = 4,644 (cumulative: 121,380)
Mantra = 95,688 (cumulative: 1,126,684)
Prostration = 5,653 (cumulative: 55,430)
* SETRAP RETREAT IS COMPLETED TODAY WITH ALL TARGETS ACHIEVED
Picture of Kechara members & friends at the completion of the retreat at Kechara House 1 today
Setrap is an amazingly quick Dharma Protector in bestowing results especially if one is steadfast in one’s commitments and promises. He, possessing a mind of a Buddha is one with Amitabha Buddha. I have heard of so many miracle cases and how he blesses people to overcome their mundane problems. Many start to take refuge in the 3 jewels and as a result start their real spiritual practice.
Setrap is the Dharma Protector of Gaden monastery and Kechara House and has been highly effective and has made Kechara House grew at a tremendous rate. What’s amazing is that Setrap saves lives and has been highly effective in benefitting many people. This retreat is timely to connect with his activity emanation to purify our negative karma and obstacles for our new Gompa and KWPC to arise. We are so lucky to have such powerful Dharma Protectors to rely on.
The teachings were the icing on the cake, the most special and surprising bonus for the already auspicious evening prayers at KH. Rinpoche’s particularly powerful explanation of the important and significance of doing GROUP retreats and Dharma work seemed especially relevant on a day that we were about to start a group retreat, to be dedicated to the new gompa and KWPC, which will be beginnings of a local monastic community.
I had a certain understanding of why Rinpoche had always encouraged us to work in Dharma, especially in or with any of the 13 departments – to be within a supportive community that will actively and directly help us along our spiritual journey.
However, this talk added so much more to my understanding, showing me the direct “mechanics” of how this group energy propels us to look beyond the limited perceptions, frustrations of ourselves and to focus outwards on the needs, problems, desires and pains of others. In recognising what others are going through, we begin to move away from individualising difficulties and problems and start to look, as a whole, at the pervasive difficulties and problems that EVERY SINGLE PERSON OUT THERE suffers. We shift from merely bitching about that one colleague/neighbour/friend to the more active determination of DOING SOMETHING to help ALL THE OTHER PEOPLE out there who, JUST LIKE US, are also going through problems.
By being within a group, we learn the most essential lesson that “I am one, but others are many”, so we stop looking inwards at ourselves (poor me, pity me!) and start focusing outwards at EVERYONE ELSE.
Rinpoche gave a clear and inspiring teaching on the purpose and benefits of retreats. I’ve participated in several group retreats before but never really understood the real purpose, which is to achieve true happiness by developing altruism. Before, it was to achieve specific goals, usually more materialistic in nature, although it was not for myself. Now, having understood the real objectives and benefits of doing retreats, whether individually or as a group, my approach has changed. Pabongka Rinpoche’s Lamrim retreat is a good example of how one can master all of Buddha’s teachings and live one’s life according to the Lamrim. I hope Kechara House members can engage in a Lamrim retreat as a group with Rinpoche’s guidance. I’m sure we will all benefit a lot from it.
Rinpoche gave us oral transmission through the phone and everyone was listening carefully. Not only did Rinpoche gave an oral transmission but it came with a Dharma talk. As always, it is clear and easy to understand. With Rinpoche, it was never about DO this, DO that without a logical explanation. At least for me, it is logical and it helps to change the mindset that I have. In the midst of a Dharma talk, it is always accompanied by logical examples, jokes and Q&A session. It is very important for us to be able to understand the meaning behind the talk and not DO,DO,DO. Or else, Rinpoche wouldnt have come all the way just to explain again. Yes, Rinpoche personally showed up and gave a Dharma talk again when we were about to finish Setrap’s puja. Thank you Rinpoche.
The big numbers of Setrap retreatants were sincere as they had turned up to help clear obstacles for our New Gompa and KWPC to manifest.That was the primary motivation to engage in the retreat.
A lot of people turn up only if the Lama or Spiritual Guide comes which is missing the point.
The attendees’ good thoughts created the cause for Rinpoche to actually come in person to give more dharma and to inspire and bless their minds.
Rinpoche explained why doing a retreat collectively is more powerful and beneficial.
This is a new angle for me- that when there are people all around us , our thoughts will include n directed at others in a natural way as opposed to doing it alone and focusing only on one person.This can give rise to self cherishing which reduce the potency of our prayers.
Simple explanations from Rinpoche have big positive effects on us.
At the opening session of the Setrap Retreat on 6 July 2010, retreat participants were surprised by Rinpoche’s visit. Most of us did not expect Rinpoche to grace the occasion after he had given the oral transmission via the tele conference phone.
Rinpoche is always very concerned to give clear and unmistaken teachings to students. When he could not see people ‘s responses in KH1 during the earlier part of his teachings, he came over and explained again face to face to all of us.
On behalf of all at the Retreat that night, thank you Rinpoche. You had shown us again by example how to place others before ourselves.
This is one of the BEST live dharma talk that I have attended given by HE Tsem Tulku Rinpoche and I was on duty. The part of teaching I love the best and most relevant like “hitting it right on the spot of our head” is “Do not Individualize the Problem but Blame on anything else except the person”.
In samsara and throughout the ages since men had exists on earth, we have been bombarded by problems of anger or hatred, greed, ignorance or delusion and suffering. These issues have been prevalent in human nature and that is why we remain as human and not Buddhas. This is so thought provoking for me and relevant. Thank you, Rinpoche for the teaching.
Thank you so much rinpoche for your appearance & making it so clear. Rinpoche always gives talk that is beneficial to us & something we could apply right away to transform our lives.
I was very unhappy few weeks ago with someone that didn’t fulfill promise which left me feel very pissed off & angry. Rinpoche’s talk helps me to understand how I got into the bitterness feeling by individualising the problem & getting stuck deeper into samsara.
I understand the importance of group retreat more now too. I used to be very skeptical over puja, until Lord Setrap came to my rescue few months ago from being disturbed by spirit. I can say it’s very very powerful & fast to offer help when needed when we chant mantra ‘Om Maha Yakcha Tsa Soha’
Rinpoche please care of health and continue turn the wheel of dharma
The opening of this retreat was blessed by the informative Dharma talk conducted by JJ (please check out http://blog.tsemtulku.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/2010/07/jj.html to hear the content of the teaching). Such information is very important because we need to know and understand the Buddha to whom we take refuge and entrust our lives to. This is the power of Tsem Rinpoche’s approach to teaching the Dharma: do not blindly follow, act through comprehension and conscious choice.
Tsem Rinpoche was so kind to grace the event with His presence and give everyone a pleasant surprise. You should have seen the reaction of the audience upon his majestic entrance! Our Rinpoche is like a celebrity: phones came out and people starting taking photos endlessly and recorded his teachings. I believe their action simply reflects on their acknowledgement that Rinpoche represents something pure and rare and they wish to capture every bit of precious holiness they can. Lucky people to have this awareness!
I related Rinpoche’s teaching on individualization to the common habit of “getting personal” about things. Version 1 of getting personal is getting personal with ourselves with nagging thoughts like: they do this to me, they insulted me…me this…me that. Version 2 of getting personal is with others where we dedicate our anger, ignorance and self-cherishing toward a particular “target” whom we label bad.
Un-individualizing things and looking at them as existing because we are in samsara brings forth a feeling of sadness for all. Think: “Nobody wants to be the bad guy or labeled lazy, selfish, greedy etc. We are all subject to creating undesirable results because we are trapped in samsara. In some ways, we just can’t help it”. With this angle, it is easier to develop compassion and with compassion we will find a more effective way to get others and ourselves out of the rut.
As un-individualization is a new habit to develop, we may want to check in form time to time that we are moving in the right direction. Rinpoche taught that a good way to check in is by taking a good look at the results we create. If we are getting it “right”, it is more likely that we feel happier, we have more success and the people like being around us. What a helpful guideline for us to start our un-individualization program. Ready, get set, go!
It was very kind of Rinpoche to grace the recent Setrap retreat and to make sure we understood his Dharma teaching of the day. Rinpoche always show his care and compassion. His Dharma talk on individualizing people’s behaviour is very useful in order for us to deal with the tall orders in our current lifestyle and the stress level we all commonly experience now. Getting along with people is very important in order to create a harmonious environment both at home and at work. Rinpoche has advised us not to individualize people according to his/her behaviour which are influenced by one’s environment and one’s karma. By doing group retreat, our mind opens up and we understood the problems we are all exposed to. Rinpoche also taught us not to give up on people. Most of us are guilty of judging people and complaining in our daily lifes, and that makes us unhappy. We should all make an constant effort to remember this teaching and apply it in my daily lives and learn to let go of our dissatisfaction, bitterness and disappointments. Thank you Rinpoche!
It has been quite a while since Rinpoche gave a Dharma talk, and this Dharma talk in particular has been very extremely helpful for me when working with my mental issues and hangups when it comes to reducing them. I often had the problem of labeling certain individuals as difficult or problematic, and then avoiding them altogether. Rinpoche’s talk made me realize that there is no need for that as it is everywhere and pervasive. And that the problem is not with the person but with the environment.
This talk will be very important for so many people on not how to live happily but also to have spiritual progress in their lives, especially for Kecharians as it will serve as the groundwork for us Kecharians to work even close with each other than ever before, forming an unbreakable Dharmic Bond that will transcend through lifetimes.
I really want Kechara World Peace Centre to manifest, grow and flourish to spread the glorious Dharma. I am proud of Uncle JJ too for giving a very good Dharma talk about Setrap’s history, lineage and practice. Thank you, Rinpoche for the Oral Transmission, it makes me feel that whenever I chant OM MAHA YAKCHA TSA SOHA, it does not feel very empty and it feels magical. Setrap’s mantra now makes me feel much more relaxed and comforted whenever I dream of something scary or if I watch a scary movie as I am very chicken. From now on I shall never get disappointed after I screw up after a long period of time. I will never individualize a person or give up on anyone, especially in the Dharma. I find group retreats a better thing to do compared to normal retreats as people can actually use a ‘retreat’ as an excuse to ‘escape’ from everyone, someone you dislike etc. I will develop a less selfish and a more selfless mind. Thank you for the talk, Rinpoche as it helps me and everyone else. I might be able to attend some parts of the retreat.
Rinpoche has given a wonderful teaching on “Don’t individualize the problem by the person” on this auspicious day (Dalai Lama Birthday & Setrap Retreat).It is a very powerful teaching where I used to individualize the problem during my working time with my previous company. With this thought we get more personal not only to the problem but with that particular person. In such we develop projections of how should the person do/act the way we want. If these doesn’t happened we will start to blame on the person, get angry, impatient, rude, etc….we stuck with our own projection! We make ourselves unhappy. And hence we will even give up with this person after several times of dissatisfaction. Rinpoche mentioned we should not blame the problem to the person because we are in Samsara and this could happen from other people. We can see this as environment issue. Help this person from the problem so we eliminate the “problem” per say rather than discard the “person”. And as a practitioner we don’t give up to a person.
Thank you again to Rinpoche for this precious teaching, it really open my mind to focus on the problem rather than the person itself.
Setrap had brought many members and friends to Kechara House. Many who came and requested for ‘help’ from Setrap had seen positive results and had in turn invited more friends to come.
We had several retreat sessions every now and then to clear obstacles for the organizations and our personal growth. Rinpoche had mentioned to us before that the bigger the dharma project, the more benefits it can bring to many, the more obstacles we will face. This is due to the collective negative karma of the current students and friends, and also of those who will be joining in the future.
It is really wonderful to see that so many people from all walks of life, be them young or mature, come to put their ‘hearts and souls’ together working towards a common goal, for the manifestation of Kechara World Peace Centre that will benefit many in the world, leaving behind a legacy for our future generations!
Dear Rinpoche,
Your teaching really blown my mind away, the teaching on stop individualise other people’s problems was so applicable to our day-to-day lives. The habit of getting angry, bitchy, difficult,etc will eventually be part of our mind stream that we carry with us life after life after life and we will not be able to gain happiness, let alone spiritual attainment.
On the same token, when we start to offer love and care selflessly to every living beings that we touch and go all out to help them, this positive energy will bounce back to us, become part of us.
From now on, let’s bear this in mind in everything we do.
With folded hands,
Siong Woan
Everyone had a pleasant surprise when Rinpoche showed up unexpectedly,as always Rinpoche’s dharma talk are both mind blowing and entertaining with his quick witted humour at making fun of all our hang ups.I am so glad I attented this teaching,it has made me think more from different angle and perspective,it’s like having some knots in you being slowly undone and you go oh..and your mind just clicked in a good way.Everything that Rinpoche teach is from the Lamrim but he managed to put it in a way that’s so applicable to us now which we all can relate to with so much clarity and understanding,his teachings has manage to penetrate everyone from all level judging from all the comments received from this blog,it’s simply amazing.I was rather zombified when Rinpoche talks to me that nite,all I want to say is “thank you Rinpoche,for without your blessings I would not be able to do anything that can be called worthy in this life and thank you for the precious dharma you have imparted to us”.May everyone of us go one step closer towards an altruistic mind by remembering all these teachings again and again.
This retreat does not only clear obstacles for Kechara World Peace Centre it also blesses our country and brings peace, happiness and prosperity.
In relation to what Rinpoche has mentioned in the talk if we follow his instructions closely, doing this retreat peoples’ lives will be touched and transformed. Even they have no idea of the three principal aspects of the path, renunciation, bodhicitta and the right view of emptiness , if they have great devotion to compassion and bodhicitta and live our lives very kind, very compassionate it has the effect of transforming our minds into a good heart and compassion hence reducing obstacles and contributing to perfect work causing happiness for all sentient beings.
Dear Rinpoche,
It was wonderful to see there are more people these days in the center even if they know Rinpoche is not attending. Over the pass few years when there is such occasion or celebration there is only a few attendees unless Rinpoche is around then Kechara House will then be filled and pack with people. The years of Rinpoches dedication and hard work have been felt by many people. Hence more and more people that are joining KH these days are getting more sincere that they really want to help to clear obstacles for the New Gompa and KWPC to manifest so that dharma can grow in this regent.
When Rinpoche is giving a dharma talk and transmission over the phone there were great silence and alertness from people around although there is still one or 2 that dose off. But still to me it is a good sign as many are able to accept dharma talk over the phone. Jay Jay did a great job explaining Setrap especially to such a big crowed. I’m very happy to see him progressing and learning to be a more responsible person.
Thank you Rinpoche for constantly prompting words that help me over come my own problems and concern.
Everyone in that room were all so happily surprised when Rinpoche appeared. It was like a triple blessing from the Three Jewels – the Setrap retreat itself, the Oral Transmission and then the Teaching from the Guru, live. I am really grateful that Rinpoche turned up and made sure that we all understood. I believe everyone in the room knows how much Rinpoche cared about their minds, and wanted to make sure that we get the essence of the Dharma Talk. I especially liked and identified the part Rinpoche said that we should individualize a person or a problem with that person. Everything stems from the nature of Samsara because we are all stuck here and we are all suffering from the detrimental side effects of being in Samsara THIS LONG – life after life. Now, I truly understand why group retreats and group assignments from Rinpoche are so important. Not only do we learn, bond together, and become less self-absorbed – most of all, we all purify our bad karma collectively. It is very powerful indeed. So, we will never give up and we will WIN together! That’s truly liberating. We become a community again of benefiting each other and live in mutual friendship.
Li Kheng, how nice that you linked Rinpoche’s talk with JJ’s opening. It seemed an especially auspicious night, didn’t it, with the birth of a new Dharma teacher, followed by teachings given by our Lama himself. Sort of like an “opening act”, but a nice omen of things to come – i.e. one day, we will also have lay people teaching lay people, which is what Rinpoche has always wished to create with the building of KWPC and the growth of all Kechara departments.
As is emphasised in all Dharma teachings, the greatest gift we can ever give to someone is by teaching them the Dharma – so really, this is something we should all be aspiring towards. It is humbling to think that we even have the smallest opportunity to be a part of this new wave of teachings and blessings.
Thank you very much Rinpoche for the talk over the phone and for paying us a visit. I so very much look forward to seeing Rinpoche each time. Your presence is so mesmerizing that it would be very hard not to get ‘attached’ to Rinpoche. But I do know that much much more important then wishing to be in your presence is the fact that I need to put into practice all that Rinpoche have thought. Each talk by Rinpoche that I have had the fortune to attend just takes my breath away. Each talk empowers me to look at things differently. Never in a million lifetimes would I have been able to see things the way that Rinpoche sees them. One hour of your dharma talk can easily cut short my journey in samsara by a million lifetimes. Thank you Rinpoche !
Unfortunately, I do not have the merits to attend many of these group retreats and teachings, so I thank Rinpoche and his e-team for making such valuble teachings available to us who are further from KL. This particularly touched me because the “don’t individualise” concept and developing selflessness is something not only to be practiced within Dharma Centres, but something that we must live out daily with our friends, colleagues, family, the man in the street, and even the plumber that comes to fix our toilet. It is so important in bringing harmony and happiness to our lives, yet quite simple (after Rinpoche has explained it!).
Setrap is one of the most amazing dharma protectors that any one could asked for. By having full faith and trust in Setrap many people had their prayers answered by Setrap. The large turnout on the first day of Setrap Retreat proved that more and more people are relying on our beloved dharma protector to help them clear obstacles and their wishes fulfilled. Thus this retreat is the best that we can do to help clear the obstacles for the manifestation of Kechara World Peace Center.
Rinpoche’s visit to Kechara House gave everyone a pleasant surprise as earlier Rinpoche had spoken with great length on the phone and had given us the oral transmission of Setrap’s holy mantra. However, Rinpoche mentioned that he had to come to Kechara House to make sure that everyone clearly understood the benefits of doing a group retreat and the dharma talk by Rinpoche had a great impact on us. As quoted by Rinpoche, “The greatest gift is the gift of dharma”. Thank you, Rinpoche for giving us the greatest gift!!!
A decade ago, hardly anyone had heard of Setrap or even the concept of Dharma protectors when Rinpoche first introduced his practice to Malaysian. He was red, he was fierce, he looked like he was about to club you in the head!
But over time, his popularity has grown through education, word of mouth and simply because his practice is truly effective.
Setrap pujas are now the most popular pujas in Kechara House, and that’s no surprise – just look at the many testimonials that people have submitted to us, telling just how Setrap has helped them in business, health, black magic, spirit problems, financial trouble… even saving their lives. http://www.kechara.com/support/your-say/amazing-miracles/
The list is endless and that’s only the littlest of what he can do for you. His true function to clear the obstacles to our Dharma practice and judging by the number of people now working full time in Kechara, or devoting themselves to the Dharma centre, it is proven to be effective.
This retreat will be a perfect introduction to setrap and his practice – visit Kechara and learn from the expert just how to propitiate this powerful and efficacious Dharma protector!
Thank you, I need this teaching. Love Always <3
I totally agree with individualizing problems making oneself suffer more. At least it applies to me, I tag people around me and group them into different category and I presume how they should behave base on my own view. I put my own expectation how others should response (lesser nowadays but sometime I still do so….). When there is a problem, I see it as his/her/my/an individual problems. It increases my anger and disappointment. Then I will either “kill” “khata” or run away from that person. And the problem remains there.
If I would like to put on one category, there should have only one which all of us are in the same – we still in the samara.There is no difference between each other.
Ops… I have used 8 “I” and 4 “my” in such a short paragraph above. Lots people have self centric thinking including myself. Ripoche explained group retreats make us think less of our own problems; I will try to set the right motivation. I wish I could do so.
Rinpoche’s talk on how to address our daily issues such as depression, anger, frustration, bitterness and so on helped me look at practising compassion in a different light. A few weeks ago, Rinpoche told me that when one practises compassion, one does not focus entirely on results. One should instead focus on tenacity.
Whether or not a person changes for the better because of our act of compassion depends on the person’s karma and merits. Therefore, we should not stop acting out of compassion just because we do not see the results we expect. Otherwise, we will never attain a mind of bodhicitta. It all makes sense because I learn to let go faster and not get depressed or angry so easily.
So when Rinpoche explained during the Setrap Retreat how to not individualise problems, it immediately occured to me that it was talk on practising compassion and equanimity. Rinpoche’s explanation was so concise, easy to grasp and so readily applicable to our daily lives. It was really fantastic!
All of us go through some sort of mental tribulations no matter how cool and non chalant the person may look. I’ve got so many friends to share this teaching with:-) I know it’ll benefit them tremendously and bring some relief to their lives.
With this new insight along with Setrap’s blessings, all of us will have a happier state of mind.
Dear Rinpoche,
I have been looking forward to this retreat since the completion of the Yidam retreat of Lord Dzambala. Thank you very much for allowing us the honour of performing this retreat. I will do my best in contributing to the retreat. This retreat means a lot to me, as KWPC means a lot to me. KWPC is a dream I share with Rinpoche and something I wish to build alongside Rinpoche. May Lord Dzambala and Lord Setrup grant us strength, perserverance and resources for this dream to materialize in the hope of having peace within and without. Additionally, I hope the kind buddhas grant me patience and humility. Like always, thank you very much for your guidance and love.
With folded hands,
Wee Liang
Exactly a year ago, I wouldn’t have clue who Setrap is if the Dhamapala had rode his sacred horse into my garden. I know for certain that I would have been frightened out of my wits. He’s red. He’s got three eyes. He’s fierce. He’s got fangs… wouldn’t anyone just drop everything and run? Coincidently, my first project in KMP was the Setrap box set. After a brief introduction and getting to know Setrap through Sharon’s detailed explanation in the book, I felt really silly to be fearful of him at all! Setrap Protector is the warthful emanation of Buddha Amitabha. As an ‘Enlightened Being’ despite his wrathful outer looks, Setrap Chen is well known for accomplishing the deadliest and swiftest destruction for all inner, outer and secret obstacles. Through time, I find myself being drawn closer to him and at times, catching myself having a conversation with him in my head. Strange how through understanding and knowledge, fear subsides and trust evolved. Thank you Rinpoche for bringing Setrap into our lives.
I was taking notes through my laptop while Rinppche was talking I noticed a slightly better absorption of the dharma than previously. Rinpoche spoke about the differences between Lam Rim retreats, Protector and Yidam retreats that helped us to see to the three different functions of these type of retreats. He also spoke about not giving up on others, which for me also meant not giving up on myself. As if we give up on others easily chances are we will also give up on ourselves too. I also found it quite meaningful when Rinpoche pointed out that it is a general problem of samsara that we all have problems due to our delusions, and different lives we manifest different problems more and each life could be different. And since we’re all in the same boat we should develop more compassion for one another.
Rinpoche also mentioned how purification happens during the Setrap retreat and that’s was our problems and karma is created by a selfish motivation. Hence to purify it we need the opposite type of motivation which is a selfless motivation to counter something created by a selfish motive. Perfect logical sense.!
I am very happy that Rinpoche actually came to drop by and explained even further! I didn’t expect Rinpoche to turn up after the oral transmission over the conference call. Rinpoche is very kind to have come personally and wanted to explain further on to what he had said before and make sure everybody has a clear view on his teachings.
I like the part where Rinpoche explained to us why we created unhappiness through individualising a problem and one should not give up on someone if we are serious in our practise. Rinpoche showed us all these while on how he had not given up on his students who swayed and later becoming a better person who benefits others.
Dearest Rinpoche,
Thank you for your blessings and teachings! Your presence at the Setrap Retreat – that was a real bonus and I am still feeling elated, inspired and contemplative!
The visuals images in my head as Rinpoche gave the Dharma teachings – I had a good laugh as I kept seeing pictures of heads being boxed up, categorised according to what we perceived, feel and then chucked, stacked oneside … hey that sounds like what we do best… accumulate and case shut! Do we really open them and relook at them at different light? Be really open minded and see beyond …or do we think that we are unique?
I shared with Sean that night and he related something with me with regards to a comment made by a member of a Sangha – ” We all think we are unique but actually we are not. We are only unique when we loose our self-cherishing mind.”
That set me thinking… and your teachings kinda replayed in my head once more before the ZZZ’s got to me!
And I will press the play button on the youtube video posted.
Thank you very much Rinpoche for seeing and nurturing our potential always!
With Gratitude and Love
With Folded Hands
Ling
I am not at all surprise that Rinpoche’s teachings during the opening of the Setrap retreat had a great impact on many people like all his other teachings. Like the Great Pabongka Rinpoche, Rinpoche never teaches from syllabus but according to the needs of his audience. He knew what we needed to know and taught accordingly. One of the things he mentioned repeatedly was our habituation of individualizing others. We often find people around us problematic because we tend to look at their faults, magnify them and individualize them as unpleasant. As time goes by, as we begin to like people less and less, we keep to ourselves and avoid people. As a result we end up becoming bitter and unhappy. This is a common problem among people and I am no less guilty of it.
So how do we solve this problem? By not individualizing people and understanding that the problems experienced by others, just like problems experienced by ourselves are not problems unique to each of us but are pervasive problems in samsara. By understanding that, we will become less personal about other people’s hang ups and will have less tendencies to think that his or her unpleasantness is directed at us. Also by understanding that, we can begin to develop empathy and compassion for others. That is the beginning of selflessness that will create the merits that can help us purify our negative karma arising from selfishness that caused our unhappiness in the first place. This teaching is so incredibly profound. It has answered many people’s question, myself included about what made people unhappy and provided a solution on how to overcome this unhappiness. Fanstastic!!!
You are right Fang – for those newbies who don’t know much Dharma, they will get frightened off! Or they will query and ask since we are Buddhist. Like when the first time I saw my sister having a Vajrayogini statue which is less fierce mind you (this is before I got in to Buddhism)… I thought Oh no she’s gone and join a CULT!!! But later when I met Rinpoche and he explained to me about all the different symbologies of each Buddha, it just amazed me how much there is to know and learn beyond my tiny mind. And knowing that there is Dharma Protectors just completely blew my mind. I absolutely love Vajrayana Buddhism because each Buddha focuses on a particular benefit, problem and mind set. Hence they are more direct in cutting ones delusions and sickness. Every single implement, color and even the way they stand, what they wear, their facial expression etc. have very deep symbologies and meaning. Nothing is made up or for no rhyme of reason, and that was what I found so amazing and so much to learn in Buddhism. In a way I am so glad I gazed upon my sister’s Vajrayogini, cos through her blessings she lead me to connect with Tsem Rinpoche and Kechara which have definitely changed my life completely! I only wish I knew Dharma earlier.
Dharmapala Lord Setrap has definitely helped me in so many ways. And one of the many which Setrap is infamous for is accidents. Setrap is always there to help save your life from crazy, dangerous accidents. This is my own experience. This happened awhile back when our very 1st Kechara Houese dharma centre was being renovated! This was also the time I was doing my retreat, and the night before my car accident, Rinpoche came to my retreat room and did a black tea offering to Setrap for things to be smooth. The very next day while I was volunteering in Kechara House 1… I was about to leave with a friend for a mission to buy some cards for Rinpoche, when I backed out my car, I hit straight in to a truck load of gas tanks which even flew out from the truck on to the side of my car! I quickly got out of the car and just could not believe what just happened. Later Rinpoche said it is good and very auspicious. A lot of your negative has been purified and you should “rejoice”! Crazy isn’t it, rejoice in a major car accident? My mind was stunned without much to say. But I know that if it wasn’t for Protector to help me, I think the gas tanks could have just broke out in explosion! I literally walked away scratch free. Rely on Setrap 100%, hey if the whole Gaden can be under His protection and care, why not?
Dear Rinpoche,
May I take this opportunity to also offer my thanks to the people who bring your videos/audio teachings to others. Living in Scotland, I can certainly testify that their efforts really do benefit those who are so physically far away from Kechara and wouldn’t be able to benefit from your wonderful teachings with the people who are so dedicated to producing your teachings online.
Also, the people who commit themselves to the retreat to remove obstacles for the manifestation of KWPC, their selflessness and devotion to you and the work of Kechara is astounding. And no doubt that while these retreats are wonderful spiritually, I imagine them to be quite physically demanding. One of the things that impresses me the most about everyone at Kechara is their willingness to constantly push themselves and achieve results; these folks really do show that with dedicated effort and commitment, there is so much that can be achieved.
Kindest regards,
Sandy
Tsem Rinpoche surprise visit to Setrap Retreat in Kechara House 1. Setrap Retreat started with Rinpoche giving an oral transmission to attendees for 72 Retreatants by conference telephone in KH1. After the oral transmission, everybody was surprise when Rinpoche turned up suddenly right after completion dedication. But any how the people in pack full Gompa was very happy that Rinpoche came by. Rinpoche gave short dharma talk come together with humourous dharma jokes of Spiritual value. Everybody enjoyed. The people were so happy to see Rinpoche that they stayed behind after puja to help clean up also. Many newbies were there to see Rinpoche for the first time and felt very lucky. While some don’t even see Rinpoche even after one year in the centre.
The perception of by just trust, believing, accept in the holy beings, Buddha, God, Deities and think you are safe is a wrong perception. Lots of people i came across thinks that way. If only they have the merits to hear this Dharma tallk by Rinpoche…
Do not INDIVIDUALIZE! I guess that is the keyword to me. The accumulation of individulized problems is the built up of anger, hatred, depression… Do not blame the ’1′ person, situation or the problem.
And to see so many Kecharians doing Setrap retreat together is really beautiful. May all obstacles be pacify for the manifestation of KWPC and also the new Gompa.
Thank you Rinpoche for the Dharma talk.
Thank you very much Rinpoche for coming to Kechara House that night. It was a pleasant surprise and treat for all the sincere people who participated in the Setrap retreat. Many were newbies (who came to Kechara House for the first time) and i rejoice in their merits to be able to see Rinpoche and listen to Rinpoche live. It is so wonderful to know that these newbies wish for the manifestation of KWPC and contribute by engaging in this powerful Setrap retreat. As what Martin commented in one of his postings on Rinpoche’s blog, to put it in a nutshell, engaging in Kechara’s activities is very healing on a personal basis AND benefits many at the same time too. Very Malaysian way of thinking; buy one, get one free!
When we individualize others problems is to remind ourselves that we too have similar problems but of varying degree. Daily we face the three main root poisons and we struggle and most times fail to come out better each time. Listening to others enhanced problems is good therapy for us because we are no better than others.
This impromptu dharma talk by Rinpoche was one of the shortest but very penetrating to me and a good reminder to what I wrote above. It grounds me to be not judgmental, to stop and think first before summing up a judgment based on hearsay. I will put myself in others shoes first before making negative comments pertaining to others individual problems.
I come from a different religious background and attended a very traditonal scholing of that religion, and it was always drilled into us never to “abandon” our God. So my defence mechanisms were always up when speaking to people of different faith. I count myself very fortunate to have personally heard Rinpoche’s talk 3 times. Right from the first talk i felt that i learned more in those few minutes about what TRUE spirituality is about and how the mere participation in a religion, any religion does not lead to real spiritual development.
The way Rinpoche speaks and the way he humbles himself makes it easy for all to relate and undertand, even for an ignoramus like me. His words are not mere utterances but they are LIVING WORDS and the words plants seeds of Truth that just grow and grow and grow within us.
I used to read the Bible and wondered for a long time what it would be like, to have been there, front row, as Jesus delivered his Sermon On The Mount. When Rincpoche’s surprised us with His visit and gifted us with an impromtu Dharma talk, i got my answer.
I mean no disrespect to anyone and i apologise if my analogy is wrongly misconstrued.
I am writing this to remind myself never to take these talks for granted and to truly contemplate on the His words. The “instructions” on the alternative uses of the khata was a bonus.
Time passes so quickly and it has been 2 years already since I heard Rinpoche during that retreat in 2010. It was such a pleasant surprise when Rinpoche suddenly turned up at what was then KH1.
I was “new” then but not anymore and I have had many more dharma lessons from Rinpoche since. The hard question I asked myself as I listened to this teaching again is…how much have I transformed? Am I still individualizing problems and am I still relating problems to individuals? Sadly yes and to my great shame it hit me that even though I regard myself as Rinpoche’s student, even as I profess to love and trust my Guru, I still make him repeat and repeat the same lesson over and over again. He has to repeat because I haven’t learned. When will it go in for good? And how many more times must I force my Guru to repeat his teachings before I run out of merit to hear it ever again?
I am glad that this blog post is revived for it has given me a chance to check myself. That I am still hear to listen to this teaching is not something I have earned or deserve but purely by my Guru’s grace.
This is sobering.
Incidentally somebody asked me if it was possible to participate in the Setrap retreat from abroad and I answered that a group retreat is as the name suggests, a retreat done in a group as opposed to a personal retreat. The whole point of going for a retreat is so that we can tear ourselves away from our daily cares and distractions and put full concentration on the retreat. Otherwise if everyone is allowed to participate from anywhere, chances are that we would have plenty of excuses not to do it or will only do it if we have spare time. When done in unison, the combined energies can be very intense and uplifting. There are also the mudras to learn and setting of our motivation. Also, if the Lama gives an oral transmission before the retreat, that would be even better.
Therefore I am very happy that Rinpoche confirmed my understanding that night when he made a surprise visit to Kechara House just as we were completing the Setrap puja on H. H. The Dalai Lama’s 75th birthday. He gave an excellent dharma teaching and he did explain the purpose of engaging in group retreats. Kechara House conducts many different types of pujas for different needs and I am so very grateful to have the chance to learn how to do them correctly. I love doing the pujas, and these surprise dharma teachings by Rinpoche complete the rapturous experience.
After many years of practising the Dharma didn’t seem to become more happier and more forgiving. Just don’t know why! Few years ago, a Mahayana monk shared with me that the common fault among practitioners is that we like to ‘see’ the faults of others especially when we know a lot of Dharma knowledge and we think we are ‘better’ than others, forgetting we ourselves are in the same situation, we have the same faults as well. Anger, jealousy, bitchy, selfishness etc and that creates problems for ourselves as mentioned in this teaching. Depression, disappointment, anger and bitterness. All these due to our fixed views of how things or person should be.
Today, Rinpoche shared an important massage – DON’T NOT individualize others because we have the similar problems, I have the same problems too. To look at these problems as existence and nature of samsara. Rinpoche, thank you for sharing the teaching of ACCEPTANCE of others and to forgive those who have hurt us in the past.
Rinpoche, thank you for taking care and provide a solution to my unsettled mind. Tashi Delek.
The surprised visit of Rinpoche made the retreat even more auspicious. The part that strike me most was the talk Rinpoche gave. Especially when he talked about individualising problems, we bacome angrier, depressed and bitter..etc. I used to experienced this type of emotions. After dharma journey, glad that individualising reduced.
After Rinpoche’s talk, i told myself, i have to be consistently To be involved in setrap puja or retreats. These will lessen our obsticles and problems, the problems may not 100% solved but due to our mind shifted, we focus outwards and cut off selfishness and become happier and has peace in mind. The essence of the teachings was we do not focus on ourselve so much, and our problems become NOT NECESSARY AT ALL
Watch this Dharma talk, if
- you wish to get the most benefits from a retreat
- you feel frustrated, angry, bitter, depressed etc
- you are about to give up on someone
- you are looking for hope after being angry, bitter, disenchanted and depressed.
The explanation on not individualising the problems that we face with people was so profound. It was clear, simple to understand and practical. Rinpoche gave us a very precious and yet simple to apply solution to stop us from isolating ourselves from people due to our flawed projections. It was like a missing jigsaw puzzle that I have been searching for.
What we received from you certainly priceless. Thank you Rinpoche for your generous and unconditional love and care. But most of for all the precious teachings that protect us from creating harm and sufferings to ourselves and others.
Dear Rinpoche,
Thank you Rinpoche for posting this dharma teaching in your blog.
The topic about individualising has made me realised that all this while my negativities arises having individualise thoughts which leads to more suffering. After reflecting my past actions, is my self cherishing mind that leads to never ending suffering. It comes and go, comes and go every time.
I met a friend last night who was suffering from sadness, anger, disappointment. I shared the topic about individualising to her and she felt that what I’ve shared about individualising made sense about why she was sad, angry and dissapointed. She felt much better after contemplating. I felt very happy that just by sharing Rinpoche’s dharma talks to others can make a difference in thier life. It is very fulfilling to know that dharma sharing can help people. Thank you Rinpoche.
Dear Rinpoche,
Having read and responded to your posts on your account of yourself in Hollywood in the 80′s, on Pabongkha Rinpoche, of his poem ” Heart Spoon” and on Trijang Rinpoche, I now would like to say that a thread that runs through them, including through your teaching on the Setrap Retreat,is the thread of love , kindness and universal compassion.All stem from the same mind of Bodhicitta.
Here in this teaching, you show us how to start growing that mind,by not individualizing persons and problems and finding fault and complaining about others along these lines.
Yes, Rinpoche, you show us so clearly and logically that all these ‘individualized’ traits and problems are basically problems that are there inherent in samsaric existence.
We are all carrying neuroses in our minds and each person just has a different neurotic ailment, that’s all.
It’s the mind of great and universal compassion, a selfless mind, a mind that knows no borders between all beings and ourselves, that is clear and without neurosis. Such is the mind of great Lamas like our Rinpoche’s, Pabongkha Rinpoche’s and Trijang Rinpoche’s.
Thank you, Rinpoche, for showing us, once again, how to move forward by practicing altruism during this retreat.
Lim Han Nee
Lord Setrap has helped me in the past many many times and till today He has never forsake me and still helping me whenever i request help from Him. He has not only assist in my worldly activities but also in my spiritual journey. I have engaged in Mahayana Pureland Sutra many many years ago and my guess i have create a strong affinity with Him but this time in wrathful form as Setrap is a wrathful animation of Buddha Amitabha.
In this teachings, Rinpoche taught us to remove obstacles and our negative karmas which we have created in the past by developing or arose the altruistic thought – Bodhichitta – the wish for others (sentient beings) to be free from their pain and sufferings, may all the burden comes to ourselves and others have happiness and joy. Someone who has mastered this tactic can only teach such altruism from true practise, stable realization and His ACTIONS. I LOVE my guru, Tsem Rinpoche
Kechara is still engaging in another Setrap Retreat this time to clear obstacles for smooth manifestations of Kechara World Peace Centre ( kwpc ) in KH1 in their own capacity and convenience. The group has to accumulate 1 million mantras, 108,000 serkym offerings and 54,000 prostrations to Lord Setrap who is Dharma Protector of Kechara as well as Gaden Shartse monastery. This was organized on H.H Dalai Lama’s birthday which is very auspicious when 2 events are celebrated on the same day. It was very auspicious also when J.J, 26 years old, Rinpoche’s long time student was requested to make his first teachings which will be recorded in a different post. Tsem Rinpoche also gave an oral transmission of the mantra which was given to him by his Guru Kensur Jampa Yeshe Rinpoche to participants. Rinpoche also gave a short talk on the benefits of doing group Retreat and also on other topics over the conference phone in KH1.
Incredible to see so many retreatants. I am sure there will be many to come and the comradeship it generates will surely bless the centre and the engaging practitioners. Setrap practice is fantastic and must not be de-cried for those who do not understand or fully engage in his practice. He clear obstacles that only those who engage in his practice will know and ready to testify. And Kechara is now full of engaging practitioners which is such good news. And just look at the number of young ones as well as professional ones who are now interested in dharma practice. It is even more a ‘breath of fresh air’ to see young people like JJ sharing the practice with others.
i just managed to listen to Rinpoche’s PRECIOUS teaching on the occasion of Setrap retreat – it was truly ‘magical’; he just gave me the answer to my present problem – i WAS ‘INDIVIDUALISING’ someone, and truly suffering for that! THANKS, “KAM-SIAH CHE-CHE”, RINPOCHE! Why, i even followed the oral transmission of Setrap mantra, (even though it was from Youtube, and after such a lapse of time!); with faith that i actually received it! Is that ridiculous of me?
It was a pleasant surprise that Rinpoche decided to come personally even though he has already given a Dharma talk over the phone and offered the retreatants the oral transmission of Setrap’s mantra. This shows his overwhelming concern and compassion for us all. We are truly blessed!
Regarding his message of not individualising problems, I personally was basically on a crusade in my company about this, coincidently, though not as articulate and altruistic as Rinpoche. Amazingly, I can see the results of this small effort of mine bearing some fruits. People change, because I think they can see the benefit for themselves and the company and hence also themselves.
I think we can apply these teachings to our daily life effectively, first by understanding the teaching, is convinced by it, then by developing faith and applying it consciously. If we do that repeatly and consciously we will change little by little and eventually we are able to be an example to others and we can share these teachings with others and they will change.
Thanks Rinpoche!
Congratulations on the successful completion of the Setrap Retreat!
Reading this thread where so many people generously share their experience and thoughts about the Dharma is very inspiring. This is one of the tangible results that the teachings of Tsem Rinpoche at Kechara have created for Malaysia and Malaysians. I am extremely grateful.
The dedication in which the retreat is completed is also a reflection on the faith that we have for Rinpoche, Setrap and the Dharma. I see this commitment and effort as an expression of gratitude towards our kind Buddhas and Guru for the miracles they have bestowed upon us (as BK shared with this link: http://www.kechara.com/support/your-say/amazing-miracles/).
I pray that our karma will allow us to always realize the preciousness of the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha and that we will not take the 3 Jewels for granted!
Congratulations again for the completion of Setrap Retreat and sincere thanks to all the Dharma sisters and brothers who contributed!
Hey Paris! You are right, we are very lucky to be a part of this Dharma revolution. We witnessed the entry of Buddhadharma into the international arena with the great works of H.H. Now we get to be a part of the revolution of how Dharma will continue to flourish into the future through lay teachers so that all sentient beings will get the chance to be close to the Dharma and liberation.
Tsem Rinpoche is so kind to leave us this gift…it certainly is the best gift in the world.
I hope that every person who has been touched by the Dharma will recognize this blessing and make the effort to be sincerely close to the Dharma.
The retreat participants felt sentimental at the end of last night’s concluding session. ling , Lee Ann & friend continued with their prostration even after the session because they wanted to fulfill the prostration counts they had pledged.
Choi Seem, Lam and their two lovable boys, Jutika and Pavara virtually camped at KH 1 during the entire retreat. Choi Seem said in her SMS that they ” wanted to do the best so that people can come and do the retreat”. The Lams are a good example of how families can practise dharma together joyfully.
Wee Liang , once again is the undefeated champion in prostration. To ensure we could complete all the counts of the Retreat, Wee Liang did full prostration from 15 July evening to 6AM 16 July , bringing the collective prostration count up by 1,900!
Our heartfelt thanks to the three umzes, Gim Lee, KH Ng and LT Loo.
There are many others contributed towards the successful completion of the Retreat ahead of schedule. I sincerely rejoice in your efforts and dedication towards Rinpoche’s vision & mission!!
Rinpoche is a Dharma CEO if there is such a thing he would give us directions and ways to reach our goal it will always start with him to give us information on how we can progress. Retreats are powerful way to generate causes for our wishes to come true.
Thanks Rinpoche for the sharing and rejoice for all Kecharian effort.
“One Cannot But Many Can”, i will always keep this phrase in mind. Sometime our step to success is very hard and full of obstacle but the most important things is WE MUST KEEP ON GOING then only can done later.
With Rinpoche and protectors blessing, KFR and KWPC sure will manifest very soon…
I was fortunate to attend one very short Setrap prayer during our KFR puja, but I would love to participate in. Retreat of this magnitude.
wish i could join the retreat
Individualising only make oneself more angry and unhappy. Since it’s the norm of samsara world, people you dislike most of the time is the mirror to reflect on our own weaknesses or shortcoming.
Today I may not see myself in the mirror, but it could be something to remind oneself.
The teaching on individualizing from Rinpoche is something I never think in that way, and from there we could make yourself to have less sufferings by amplifying other’s weakness and spend time talk, worry or analyses it.
very relevant teaching thank you