Musings from a Feast

While waiting for an image of the dharma protector Ekajati to load -- and it may not -- I'm musing about the feast that was held this afternoon to conclude and mark the abhisheka conferred by Karma Senge Rinpoche. He was passing on teachings from Tibet received in 1958 by the Vidyadhara the Venerable Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche, concerning the mahasattva Avalokiteshvara. These were terma, or treasure teachings, that the Vidyadhara received before having to leave Tibet due to the Communist incursion.

The question I was contemplating was: what about the argument that is sometimes put forth that we, his disciples, should move on and not wallow in nostalgia for the past? Well, of course we shouldn't wallow! But when that is equated with not being "attached" to teachings that were given by the teacher at some point in the past....well, doesn't that seem a bit absurd after receiving a text like this in this manner? A wonderful sharing with dharma brothers and sisters. These teachings were, it is said, originally given by Guru Rinpoche in the 8th Century. They were hidden in a crystal cave, to be revealed in a future age when they would be relevant. They were found, again, by Chogyam Trungpa, who revealed them in 1958. Through the amazing perserverance and dedication of Karma Senge Rinpoche, they were recovered from disciples of Trungpa Rinpoche who had held on to the text and understood the practice. NOW they have been translated and are being presented to Western disciples. Out of date? Nostalgic? Please! Couldn't be more powerful, up to date or relevant.


Wouldn't it be nice to put that particular argument to bed, for a long long sleep! E Ma Ho. Wonderous marvelous dharma. Oh well, I give up on the illustration of Ekajati. Maybe she will want to appear tomorrow. So far not. But, as far as the feast is concerned, an amazing time was had by all. And lo and behold Ekajati is there. This print of a painting by Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche was published by Trident Publications and is copyright Diana J. Mukpo. Used by permission.