Manjushri Dharma Center

Public Talk: The Four Noble Truths
2018-07-16 18:30 - 20:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
July 16th, 2018 marks the Tibetan holy day of Chokhor Duchen, honoring the day that the Buddha Shakyamuni first taught the Four Noble Truths, and first turned the wheel of the Dharma. We will celebrate with a public talk on the Four Noble Truths given by Khenpo Karten Rinpoche and special prayers. Please join us for this profound teaching on this very special occasion! Free event, but donations always appreciated.

Learn More
Chokor Duchen Festival in Tibet is one of the four great seasonal festivals (Losar, Saga Dawa, Chokor Duchen and Lhabab Duchen) celebrated by all Tibetan Buddhists. During those times, it is believed that the effects of positive or negative actions are multiplied ten million times.
Chokhor means “Prayer Wheel” or “Dharma Wheel”, the common religious objects in Tibet, and Duchen means “great occasion” in Tibetan. Hand held wheels are hollow wooden or metal cylinders attached to a handle which when turned are believed to spread spiritual blessing. Mantras—such as Om Mani Padme Hum, believed to invoke the attention and blessings of Chenrezig, the Buddha of compassion—may be printed.
Tradition has it that Buddha was not convinced through his own reflections that teaching what he had discovered through his meditations would be of any benefit to others. It took the intercession of the great gods, Brahma and Indra, to persuade him to do so for the benefit of all sentient beings. The Buddha then addressed the five people who had been his companions during the time spent with the forest yogins concerning the Four Noble Truths:1. The truth of suffering
The First Noble Truth often is translated as “Life is suffering.” Many people new to Buddhism tune out as soon as they hear this. But the Pali word dukkhaalso refers to anything that is temporary, conditional, or compounded of other things. Even something precious and enjoyable is dukkha, because it will end. Related to the nature of life is the nature of self. Are we not also temporary, conditional and compounded of many parts? We can understand that life is impermanent but are we, also, impermanent? The Buddha taught that before we can understand life and death we must understand the self.2. The truth of the cause of suffering
The Second Noble Truth teaches that the cause of suffering is craving or thirst (tanha). We continually search for something outside ourselves to make us happy. But no matter how successful we are, we never remain satisfied. The Buddha taught that this thirst grows from ignorance of the self. We go through life grabbing one thing after another to get a sense of security about ourselves. We attach not only to physical things, but also to ideas and opinions about ourselves and the world around us. Then we grow frustrated when the world doesn’t behave the way we think it should and our lives don’t conform to our expectations.The Buddha’s teachings on karma and rebirth are closely related to the Second Noble Truth.
3. The truth of the end of suffering
The Buddha’s teachings on the Four Noble Truths are sometimes compared to a physician diagnosing an illness and prescribing a treatment. The first truth tells us what the illness is, and the second truth tells us what causes the illness. The Third Noble Truth holds out hope for a cure. The Buddha taught that through diligent practice, we can put an end to craving. Ending the hamster-wheel chase after satisfaction is enlightenment (bodhi, “awakened”). The enlightened being exists in a state called Nirvana.
4. The truth of the path that frees us from suffering
Here the Buddha as physician prescribes the treatment for our illness: The Eightfold Path.Unlike in many other religions, in Buddhism there is no particular benefit to merely believing in a doctrine. Instead, the emphasis is on living the doctrine and walking the path.
More details about this holiday will follow.

Thursday Evening Thargyen Book Club, Canceled this week
2018-07-19 18:30 - 20:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
The Jewel Ornament of Liberation, also known as the Thargyen, was originally composed by Ven. Gampopa (1079-1153) and presents in one text all of Buddha’s 84,000 teachings. It is a kind step-by-step outline of the path to enlightenment, and a primary text in the Kagyu tradition. The 2018 book club commentary is a teaching by Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, given over four months specifically for a western audience. The language is simple and the concepts are clearly presented. Using this commentary and discussing how to put the teachings into practice in daily life, we will be well-prepared to continue our study once Khenpo Karten Rinpoche returns to teach his beautiful 80-verse summary of this seminal work. Details on the book club text and an outline of topics is below. Even if you cannot read the chapters ahead, the discussion of each topic will help us to better understand the path of Dharma. Join us on Thursday evenings as we discuss the Jewel Ornament of Liberation.
Book Club Book Details:
Jewel Ornament of Liberation, commentary by: Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, ISBN: 1-877294-27-6
Originally published in 2003, updated 2014, Namo Buddha Publications and Zhyisil Chokyi Ghatsal Trust Publications.

Available on Amazon (2014 update, white cover) for roughly 30.00:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/8120836987/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Available from Namse Bangdzo Bookstore (2003 version, gold cover) for roughly 40.00
https://www.namsebangdzo.com/Je_Gampopa_s_The_Jewel_Ornament_of_Liberation_p/12086.htm

Discussion Topics:

Chapter 1: Buddha Nature
Chapter 2: Precious Human Life
Chapter 3: The Spiritual Friend
Chapter 4: Instructions on Impermanence
Chapter 5: The Suffering of Samsara
Chapter 6: Karma and Its Results
Chapter 7: Loving-kindness & Compassion
Chapter 8: Refuge & Precepts
Chapter 9: Cultivation of Bodhichitta
Chapter 10: Training in Aspiring Bodhichitta
Chapter 11: Training in Action Bodhichitta
Chapter 12: The Perfection of Generosity
Chapter 13: The Perfection of Moral Ethics
Chapter 14: The Perfection of Patience
Chapter 15: The Perfection of Diligence
Chapter 16: The Perfection of Meditative Concentration
Chapter 17: The Perfection of Wisdom-Awareness
Chapter 18: The Aspects of the Five Paths
Chapter 19: The Levels of the Path
Chapter 20: Perfect Buddhahood
Chapter 21: Activities of the Buddha

Thursday Evening Thargyen Book Club
2018-07-26 18:30 - 20:00 | Private Residence, CA, United States

Solar Eclipse, Special Prayers of Kuntuzangpo
2018-08-11 11:00 - 12:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
On Saturday, August 11th, there will be a partial solar eclipse at 1:02am Pacific Standard Time, visible from northern and eastern Europe, and northern parts of North America. Such days are significant in the Tibetan tradition as “merit multiplier days,” meaning that our intentions and actions are amplified by countless millions. Practitioners are encouraged to set positive intentions and to act in accordance with love and compassion with special focus on this day. After our regular meditation practice, Rinpoche will lead us in the prayer called the Prayer of Kuntuzangpo (Tib. ཀུན་བཟང་སྨོན་ལམ་, Kunzang Mönlam) — a famous Dzogchen aspiration prayer recited especially during a solar or lunar eclipse, an earthquake or at the solstices. Join us for this very meritorious prayer practice!

Final Thursday Evening Thargyen Book Club
2018-08-16 18:30 - 20:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States

Riwo Sangchod Fire Puja Conducted by Chamtrul Rinpoche
2018-08-21 10:00 - 11:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Khenpo Karten Rinpoche has invited his friend Chamtrul Rinpoche Lobsang Gyatso to Manjushri Dharma Center to give teachings and lead practices from Aug 20-22. Chamtrul Rinpoche will conduct a Riwo Sangchod Fire Puja on August 21 at 10:00 AM.

Riwo Sangchod (“The Mountain of Burnt Offerings”), a term (revealed treasure) of Lhatsun Namkha Jigmed, is a fire puja, or smoke offering ceremony. Visualizing ourselves in the form of Guru Padmasambhava, we recite his mantra and offer an array of aromatic and nourishing substances that have been consecrated, such as incense, medicinal plants and herbs, the three whites and the three sweets (milk, butter, yogurt, sugar, honey and molasses) into a fire, the smoke from which is offered to the Three Jewels (Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha), the Three Roots (Lamas, Yidams, and Dakinis), as well as to the hosts of sentient beings of the six realms. The practice of Riwo Sangchod is a powerful skillful method of paying back karmic debts to beings we have harmed in the past, restoring broken precepts, averting obstacles and negative influences, and balancing and harmonizing the physical elements to pacify the subtle forces that causes natural disasters.

About Chamtrul Rinpoche Lobsang Gyatso
Chamtrul Rinpoche is the recognized third incarnation of a great master of the Kathog lineage of the Nyingma Order of Tibetan Buddhism. Born in Golok, East Tibet, he receive monastc education and training, first at the great Kathog Monastery (the oldest of the “Six Mother Monasteries” of Nyingma), and then at Sertha Larung Gar Five Sciences Buddhist Academy in Kham, East Tibet, renowned as the largest Buddhist monastic center in the world. There, Chamtrul Rinpoche met and received the title of Khenpo from his Root Guru, the non-sectarian Dzogchen master and Treasure Revealer Khenpo Jigmed Phuntsok Jungne, one of the most beloved and revered masters of the 20th century. He was enthroned again as a Khenpo at Kathok Monastery. Chamtrul Rinpoche later settled in Dharamsala, India and began giving teachings to many international students for over 10 years, with his excellent command of the English language. Rinpoche founded Bodhicitta Centers to unite sangha around the world who study under his guidance.

We are very fortunate to be able to receive sacred Dharma teachings from such a highly qualified and respected master, and that our precious teacher Khenpo Karten Rinpoche is making it possible for us to connect with Chamtrul Rinpoche’s wisdom body, speech and mind.

Public Teaching: The Four Thoughts that Turn the Mind to Dharma
2018-08-21 18:30 - 20:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Khenpo Karten Rinpoche has invited his friend Chamtrul Rinpoche Lobsang Gyatso to Manjushri Dharma Center to give teachings and lead practices from Aug 20-22. Chamtrul Rinpoche will bestow teachings on the Four Thoughts that Turn the Mind to Dharma.

August 21, 6:30 PM ~ Public Teaching: The Four Thoughts that Turn the Mind to Dharma (or simply “The Four Thoughts”) is a series of contemplations that are specifically designed to awaken in our mind stream a deep attitude of renunciation — a turning away from the worldly concerns and attachments that keep us entangled in samsara, and a turning toward the Dharma which liberates us from samsara. In context of the Ngondro (Preliminary or Foundational Practices of Vajrayana Buddhism), one first contemplates The Four Thoughts, which are found in all Buddhist traditions and are therefore known as the Common our Outer Preliminaries. The Four Thoughts that Turn the Mind to Dharma are:

The Preciousness and Rarity of this Human Life
Impermanence
The Infallible Law of Cause and Effect (Karma)
The Nature of Samsara as an Ocean of Suffering

Chamtrul Rinpoche will elucidate these basic yet profound teachings, explain the benefits of meditating on the Four Thoughts, and teach us how to integrate them into our daily life.

About Chamtrul Rinpoche Lobsang Gyatso
Chamtrul Rinpoche is the recognized third incarnation of a great master of the Kathog lineage of the Nyingma Order of Tibetan Buddhism. Born in Golok, East Tibet, he receive monastc education and training, first at the great Kathog Monastery (the oldest of the “Six Mother Monasteries” of Nyingma), and then at Sertha Larung Gar Five Sciences Buddhist Academy in Kham, East Tibet, renowned as the largest Buddhist monastic center in the world. There, Chamtrul Rinpoche met and received the title of Khenpo from his Root Guru, the non-sectarian Dzogchen master and Treasure Revealer Khenpo Jigmed Phuntsok Jungne, one of the most beloved and revered masters of the 20th century. He was enthroned again as a Khenpo at Kathok Monastery. Chamtrul Rinpoche later settled in Dharamsala, India and began giving teachings to many international students for over 10 years, with his excellent command of the English language. Rinpoche founded Bodhicitta Centers to unite sangha around the world who study under his guidance.

We are very fortunate to be able to receive sacred Dharma teachings from such a highly qualified and respected master, and that our precious teacher Khenpo Karten Rinpoche is making it possible for us to connect with Chamtrul Rinpoche’s wisdom body, speech and mind.

Excellent Path of Freedom, The Jewel Ornament of Liberation in Brief
2018-08-29 18:30 - 20:30 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
The Jewel Ornament of Liberation, also known as the Thargyen, was originally composed by Ven. Gampopa (1079-1153), and presents all of Buddha’s 84,000 teachings, kindly organized into a step-by-step outline of the path to enlightenment. It is a foundational text in the Kagyu tradition. We are so fortunate that our resident lama Khenpo Karten Rinpoche has written a beautiful 80 verse distillation entitled Excellent Path of Freedom: The Jewel Ornament of Liberation in Brief, translated into English by Jampa Tharchin. As Rinpoche states in his colophon, it was written: “so that future disciples could know how to put all of the Jewel Ornament of Liberation into practice, day and night, in daily life…” Please join us for this very special weekly series as Rinpoche give commentary and teachings on his 80 verse composition, with consecutive interpretation kindly provided by Jampa Tharchin.

Field Trip to the Asian Museum in San Francisco
2018-09-16 09:00 - 17:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
We are planning a sangha field trip to the Asian Museum in San Francisco on September 16, 2018. The current exhibit that goes until September 16 is called “A Guided Tour of Hell”. These are paintings made by Pema Namdol Thaye from an experience Western Buddhist teacher Sam Bercholtz had when his heart stopped for awhile on the operating table. Sam is a longtime Nyingma practitioner, training under Trunpa Rinpoche, then with HH Dudjom Rinpoche and Kyabje Thinley Norbu. He also teaches at the annual Ngondro Retreat held at Pema Osel Ling. The details: we will be leaving at 9:00 AM from the Dharma Center, 724 Forest Avenue, Pacific Grove, carpooling if possible. Please RSVP to Bob Mueller, muellerra@earthlink.net or 831.662.2418.

No Monday Night Chanted Prayers, Classes Are Canceled Today
2018-09-24 18:30 - 20:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Class will not be held this week as Rinpoche is in Portland on the annual Amitaba Retreat. Class will resume next week.
Chanted prayers are an important component of training in spiritual life. They help us to still our mind, connect with the Buddhas and receive blessings. Join us on Monday evenings as Rinpoche leads us in chanted prayers recited in Tibetan and English. Prayers are typically those of Amitabha Buddha (Buddha of Infinite Light), but occasionally also Avalokiteshvara Buddha (Buddha of Infinite Compassion) or Medicine Buddha (Buddha of Infinite Healing). We imagine a world transformed, purified, and at peace. Beginners to advanced practitioners are welcome, prayer books are provided. Free of charge, but donations are welcome.

Class Canceled This Week, Excellent Path of Freedom, The Jewel Ornament of Liberation in Brief Will Resume Next Week
2018-09-26 18:30 - 20:30 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Class will not be held this week as Rinpoche is in Portland on the annual Amitaba Retreat. Class will resume next week.
The Jewel Ornament of Liberation, also known as the Thargyen, was originally composed by Ven. Gampopa (1079-1153), and presents all of Buddha’s 84,000 teachings, kindly organized into a step-by-step outline of the path to enlightenment. It is a foundational text in the Kagyu tradition. We are so fortunate that our resident lama Khenpo Karten Rinpoche has written a beautiful 80 verse distillation entitled Excellent Path of Freedom: The Jewel Ornament of Liberation in Brief, translated into English by Jampa Tharchin. As Rinpoche states in his colophon, it was written: “so that future disciples could know how to put all of the Jewel Ornament of Liberation into practice, day and night, in daily life…” Please join us for this very special weekly series as Rinpoche give commentary and teachings on his 80 verse composition, with consecutive interpretation kindly provided by Jampa Tharchin.

We're Having a Fence-Raising!
2018-10-06 11:00 - 17:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
You’re invited to join us for a Fence-Raising! The fence will be constructed over the first two weekends in October. We will begin on Saturday, October 6th after meditation around 11 o’clock AM at the Manjushri Dharma Center backyard, 724 Forest Avenue in Pacific Grove. We will continue the following day, Sunday, October 7th and the next weekend Saturday, October 13th and Sunday, October 14th. The project is led by Doug Gallant, an experienced fence-raiser.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
All the construction will be done by volunteers. If you would like to be a volunteer fence-raiser, jobs include: carrying materials, setting posts, nailing, providing musical accompaniment, documenting, and making a great picnic for all participants. Please send your contact information to the Facility Manager, Diana Slattery, faithfulscribe@gmail.com. We are on our way. Turning an undeveloped lot into a space for more Dharma teaching, meditation, and you name it. We’re claiming the space!
DONATIONS FOR MATERIALS, BUY A BOARD!
We want to put our donors’ names on the fence! There are 91 boards in this fence. Each Board costs $5.00. There are 12 posts needed. Each post is $11.00. If you would like to buy a board or a post (or 2 or 5 or 10), just click the donate button below. Then email our Facility Manager, Diana Slattery at faithfulscribe@gmail.com and tell her how many posts and or boards you would like to purchase and the name you would like on each board. If you would like to donate with cash or a check, please write how many posts and or boards you would like to purchase and the name you would like on each board, then put the donation in an envelope and use the donation box at the Manjushri Dharma Center. What a wonderful thing it would be to have many small donations all adding up to one sacred fence!

No Monday Night Chanted Prayers
2018-10-22 18:30 - 20:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Rinpoche is traveling today, so no regular practice.
Chanted prayers are an important component of training in spiritual life. They help us to still our mind, connect with the Buddhas and receive blessings. Join us on Monday evenings as Rinpoche leads us in chanted prayers recited in Tibetan and English. Prayers are typically those of Amitabha Buddha (Buddha of Infinite Light), but occasionally also Avalokiteshvara Buddha (Buddha of Infinite Compassion) or Medicine Buddha (Buddha of Infinite Healing). We imagine a world transformed, purified, and at peace. Beginners to advanced practitioners are welcome, prayer books are provided. Free of charge, but donations are welcome.

Lhabab Düchen/Thargyen Class
2018-10-31 18:30 - 20:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
On Lhabab Duchen, the effects of positive or negative actions are multiplied ten million times. It is part of Tibetan Buddhist tradition to engage in virtuous activities and prayer on this day.
Lhabab Duchen is a Buddhist festival celebrated to observe the Buddha’s descent from the Trāyastriṃśa heaven down to earth. According to legend, the Buddha ascended the Trāyastriṃśa heaven temporarily at the age of 41, in order to give teachings to benefit the gods in that desire realm and to repay the kindness of his mother by liberating her from Samsara. He was exhorted by his disciple and representative Maudgalyayana to return, and after a long debate and under a Full Moon Buddha agreed to return. He returned to earth a week later by a special triple ladder prepared by Viswakarma, the god of machines. This event is considered to be one of the eight great deeds of the Buddha.
Since Lhabab Duchen falls on a Wednesday the night of Thargyen class, the schedule will be:
6:30 PM
A shorter than usual Thargyen lesson.
7:00 PM
Guru Yoga Practice–Prayer to Japa Sangye Tenzin, who is Khenpo Karten Rinpoche’s first root guru.
8:00 PM
Lucky Pot! Bring food offerings for all our gurus, that we will share together after the ceremony. If you haven’t been to a Manjushri Center Lucky Pot, you will be delighted with the great food and the chance to meet and socialize with old and new sangha members.

Guru Rinpoche Amitabha Tsog Offering
2018-12-17 18:30 - 20:30 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Monday, December 17th is a special day in the Tibetan lunar calendar (10th lunar day), honoring Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava. Guru Rinpoche,the ‘Precious Master’, is the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. He established the Buddhadharma in Tibet, and then developed the practice so that all the teachings of Buddha were preserved as a living tradition that has continued down to the present day.
Please join us for an Amitabha tsog offering puja to observe this auspicious occasion. Attendees are requested to bring tsog offerings like flowers, fruits, biscuits, cheese/crackers, nuts, etc. We will arrange a beautiful offering of food and flowers for the Guru, Three Jewels, Assembly of Heroes and Heroines, and we partake in the offerings to honor the divine within. It is a beautiful practice to accumulate merit and purify obscurations. Prayers will be provided and all are welcome!

Winter Solstice Blessing of the Waters
2018-12-21 16:30 - 17:00 | Lover’s Point Beach, 17th St and Ocean View Blvd, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Khenpo Karten Rinpoche will offer a Water Blessing Ceremony on the occasion of the Winter Solstice, Friday December 21, 2018, from 4:30pm to 5:00pm at Lovers Point beach in Pacific Grove. The blessing will honor all the earth’s elements as Rinpoche will chant to pray for their protection. This is a powerful and poignant way to gather in community and to celebrate the shortest day of the year. Participants are invited to offer a group prayer with candles to welcome back the light. Prayer copies and candles will be provided. The event is free to all. Participants are encouraged to bring flower petals to contribute to this beautiful and moving ceremony. We hope you can make it!

Monday Night Chanted Prayers
2019-01-14 18:30 - 20:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Join us for this special Monday evening when Rinpoche leads us in the chanted prayers of Medicine Buddha (Buddha of Infinite Healing). Medicine Buddha offers physical and mental healing, protection from dangers and obstacles, and helps living beings to eradicate the three poisons – attachment, hatred, and ignorance – which are the source of all sickness and danger. He is a Buddha Doctor, depicted as having a dark blue (lapis lazuli) colored body, this being an archetypal color of healing. With his left hand he holds a bowl of healing nectars, and with his right, a medicine plant. Beginners to advanced practitioners are welcome, prayer books are provided. Free of charge, but donations are welcome.

Thargyen Class Canceled on Jan.16th, 2019
2019-01-16 18:30 - 20:30 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Due to bad weather, Rinpoche requested that Thargyen class on Wednesday, January 16th, 2019 be canceled. He is concerned with unsafe road conditions, especially for our Sangha members driving from Big Sur. The class will resume next week, January 23rd, 2019.
Best wishes everyone! Tashi Delek!

About the Weekly Thargyen Class: The Jewel Ornament of Liberation, also known as the Thargyen, was originally composed by Ven. Gampopa (1079-1153), and presents all of Buddha’s 84,000 teachings, kindly organized into a step-by-step outline of the path to enlightenment. It is a foundational text in the Kagyu tradition. We are so fortunate that our resident lama Khenpo Karten Rinpoche has written a beautiful 80 verse distillation entitled Excellent Path of Freedom: The Jewel Ornament of Liberation in Brief, translated into English by Jampa Tharchin. As Rinpoche states in his colophon, it was written: “so that future disciples could know how to put all of the Jewel Ornament of Liberation into practice, day and night, in daily life…” Please join us for this very special weekly series as Rinpoche give commentary and teachings on his 80 verse composition, with consecutive interpretation kindly provided by Jampa Tharchin.

Introduction to Meditation
2019-01-26 09:00 - 10:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Want to learn how to meditate? Maybe you have been meditating, but still have pain or discomfort that can be distraction. In addition you may want to know how to work with your mind in meditation. This Introduction to Meditation might be just what you have been looking for.
What we will cover:
9:00 – 10:00 AM
1. The standard meditation posture and variations.
2. Various ways to more comfortably support your posture with an opportunity to try cushions, benches, and chairs.
3. Individual review of your posture with ideas on how to help you sit with more ease.
4. Ample time for Q & A.
5. Teachings by Khenpo Karten Rinpoche on working with your mind in meditation.
10:00 – 11:00 AM
The Second half will be a period of formal meditation to put into practice what you learned, followed by tea.
You don’t have to be a Buddhist to attend and learn how to meditate or how to strengthen your current practice. A donation of $10.00 per class is requested, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds.

Tibetan New Year Lucky-Pot
2019-02-05 18:30 - 20:30 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Bring food, bring instruments, and be merry! Tuesday, February 5th marks the beginning of Losar, the lunar new year, the “Year of the Pig.” Rinpoche will make traditional Tibetan food like kamze, and we are all invited to celebrate!
Learn More: Losar in Tibet

Canceled: Excellent Path of Freedom, The Jewel Ornament of Liberation in Brief
2019-02-13 18:30 - 20:30 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Due to bad weather, Rinpoche requested that Thargyen class on Wednesday, February 13th, 2019 be canceled. He is concerned with unsafe road conditions, especially for our Sangha members driving from Big Sur. The class will resume next week, February 20th, 2019.
Best wishes everyone! Tashi Delek!
About Tharygen Class:
The Jewel Ornament of Liberation, also known as the Thargyen, was originally composed by Ven. Gampopa (1079-1153), and presents all of Buddha’s 84,000 teachings, kindly organized into a step-by-step outline of the path to enlightenment. It is a foundational text in the Kagyu tradition. We are so fortunate that our resident lama Khenpo Karten Rinpoche has written a beautiful 80 verse distillation entitled Excellent Path of Freedom: The Jewel Ornament of Liberation in Brief, translated into English by Jampa Tharchin. As Rinpoche states in his colophon, it was written: “so that future disciples could know how to put all of the Jewel Ornament of Liberation into practice, day and night, in daily life…” Please join us for this very special weekly series as Rinpoche give commentary and teachings on his 80 verse composition, with consecutive interpretation kindly provided by Jampa Tharchin.

Tibetan Uprising Day
2019-03-10 16:30 - 18:30 | Windows on the Bay, Corner of Del Monte and Camino El Estero, Monterey, 93940, United States
2019 marks 60 years since the Chinese occupation in 1959. Join Khenpo Karten Rinpoche, local Tibetan Buddhist monk and teacher, as well as supporters of the Tibetan community to speak out against violence and cultural repression, part of a world-wide day of protests known as Tibetan Uprising Day. Signs will be provided (or you may bring your own) and we will be there rain or shine. May all cultures and peoples live together in harmony and peace.
SPACE

Learn more: Free Tibet–https://freetibet.org/about
SPACE
Download a Poster, and Help Spread the Word: Tibetan Uprising Day
SPACE

Questions: Rachel C. at rachelmdc2016@gmail or 831-901-3156 (Manjushri Dharma Center phone–will take some time to return calls, volunteer staffed).

MORE INFO

Since the Chinese occupation in 1959, more than one million Tibetans have been killed. To fly a Tibetan flag, send an email abroad, or say the phrase “human rights,” is cause for imprisonment and torture. 99% of all Tibetan monasteries have been closed. The Tibetan people and their culture are being systematically attacked. Our own teacher, Khenpo Karten Rinpoche risked his life to become a monk in Tibet before fleeing in 1996. Stand up against this repression and violence. Lend your voice to peace, justice, and freedom: Support Tibet! Join us on Saturday, March 10th, 12:30pm to 1:30pm at Windows on the Bay as we join international protests in support of Tibetan freedom. Signs provided. Please note: Protesters cannot step into the street or hand out leaflets to cars, as per a city safety mandate.
“Imagine you are not allowed to whistle ‘Yankee Doodle’ as you work. You can’t talk about the day’s events in your native language, nor wear blue jeans and tennis shoes, or any other garment quintessentially American. Your children go to a new school where they learn a language other than yours, and are taught to report you to the authorities if you speak English at home. Forget going to church. This is Tibet today.” quote from 2016 article in Cedar St. Times.

Learn more about the issue:
Free Tibet website
2016 PG Cedar Street Times article (bottom of p1, includes photos of Rinpoche during his trek across the Himalayas)
Video: Tibet Today

Heart Sutra Retreat with teachings from the Ven. Khenpo Karten Rinpoche
2019-03-22 16:00 - 2019-03-24 14:00 | Carmel Sambosa, “Three Jewels Temple”, 28110 Robinson Canyon Rd, Carmel Valley, CA, 93923, United States
The Manjushri Dharma Center is pleased to host a three-day retreat at the beautiful Sambosa Three Jewels temple in Carmel Valley. Khenpo Karten Rinpoche, Manjushri Dharma Center’s resident lama, will give instructions on The Heart Sutra, one of the most precious teachings in all of Buddhism. The retreat will also include daily chanted prayers of Amitabha Buddha (the Buddha of Infinite Light) and the opportunity to receive or renew Bodhisattva vows. Rinpoche has requested that this be a silent retreat, sometimes called full silence or noble silence. This means trying to limit any talking to essential communications only, and will start after Friday dinner continuing until the start of lunch on Sunday. In advance of the retreat, Rinpoche has requested that, if you are able, please read “Essence of the Heart Sutra”, by His Holiness the Dalai Lama – Wisdom Publications, 2002.
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In addition, Rinpoche has written a text for the retreat: Essence of the Heart Sutra in Brief
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The formal retreat will go from dinner on Friday, March 22, until after lunch on Sunday, March 24. If you can, plan to arrive around 4 PM on Friday for sleeping assignment and settling in. Retreat will end around 2 pm after our Annual Sangha Meeting held right after Sunday lunch.
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Vegetarian meals are included, and donations requested range from $100 for a single day attendance, $150 for day use full retreat, $200 for full retreat with RV, camping, or shared floor space accommodations, $330-430 for shared or private room accommodations.
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Scholarships available. Contact Shayna Morse at Edovid@aol.com.

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MORE INFO AND REGISTRATION: For full retreat information and online registration, please visit our listing on Eventbrite.
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If you have questions, please contact Bob M. at muellerra@earthlink.net.

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Download a flyer: Heart Sutra Silent Retreat

Retreat Details
Khenpo Karten Rinpoche will give teachings on The Heart Sutra. We are exceedingly fortunate to have this precious opportunity to hear and reflect upon these instructions and meditations.
In addition, each morning will begin with the recitation of the Buddha Amitabha sadhana in which we request that at the time of our death we may go directly to Amitabha’s Pure Land, stepping off the cycle of rebirth and suffering.
Teachings will be given in Tibetan and English. And you will receive a copy of the schedule upon arrival.
The formal retreat will go from dinner on Friday, March 22, until after lunch on Sunday, March 24. If you can, plan to arrive around 4 PM on Friday for sleeping assignment and settling in. Retreat will end around 2 pm after our Annual Sangha Meeting held right after Sunday lunch.
It would be greatly appreciated if some of you could arrive a little earlier to help with setup of tables, chairs, mats, etc., and if some could stay afterwards on Sunday to help with cleanup.
There will also be a signup sheet at the time of your arrival for each person to perform a simple task during the retreat. This might include kitchen help, table setup, wash/dry dishes, or other quick, low stress tasks, benefiting the whole group.
Rinpoche has requested that this be a silent retreat, sometimes called full silence or noble silence. This means trying to limit any talking to essential communications only, and will start after Friday dinner continuing until the start of lunch on Sunday. More information will be given about this at the first evening’s gathering in the Buddha Hall.
Facility Details
1. Accommodations
Rooms are very simple and basic, with several containing 1-2 beds, and a 3-fold floor cushion. There is also the option to sleep with a cot or mat/pad and sleeping bag on the floor of the library, with room dividers used for privacy.
NOTE: There are only two (2) single occupancy rooms available which will be reserved in the order of reservations received. So, register early! Preference will be given to the elderly and those with mobility limitations.
For the other rooms, please select if you wish to stay in a shared-occupancy room or are okay with sleeping on a carpeted floor with a cot, mat/pad and sleeping bag or other sleep aid.
Room occupancy will be divided by gender at the Temple staff request. Therefore, we cannot accommodate male/female couples in the same room.
All rooms have small tables, overhead lighting, bedside reading lamps and open closet space to hang our clothes.
The option of camper van (no hook-ups) and tent camping is also available. Bathroom use would be inside the temple facility which will remain open.
Persons may commute from home for a single day and encouraged to attend the full retreat. Either choice comes with meals.
There are 6 bathrooms, 3 for persons who self-identify as male and 3 for those who self-identify as female.
The Temple is in a locale under water-use restrictions. Therefore, we have been asked that, if able, we bring our own towels and bedding. If you are unable to do so, or are traveling some distance, these items will be provided. Also, no prolonged showers. We are trying to help them out as much as we can. Remember, this is a retreat lasting only two nights.
An accommodation alternative is to do an online search for available local hotels/motels or Airbnb homes in Carmel Valley, Carmel, Pacific Grove or Monterey.
2. Meals
All meals will be vegan or vegetarian and will start with Friday dinner and include Sunday lunch.
Due to logistic matters, we will not be able to accommodate special or restrictive diets. In such a case, you may wish to bring your own food. There is a well-equipped kitchen on-site to aid in food preparation.
3. A Few Rules
This is a very traditional Temple. We have been asked to abide by a few rules of etiquette when inside the facility. This is showing respect for the Temple and to those who have offered their facility for our use.
These are:
– avoid clothes that are “revealing” or have logos, messages, large graphics;
– persons are asked to not wear skirts in the Buddha Hall;
– no food allowed in the Buddha Hall, but liquids are okay;
– please do not use scented products, perfumes, essential oils, or similar;
– no smoking in or near the buildings; smoking in the parking areas is okay;
– no drugs or alcohol of any kind are allowed on the Temple grounds;
– no pets are allowed;
– no use of candles or incense in the sleeping areas.
4. What to Bring
Water bottle, indoor slippers/socks, slip-on shoes, towel and washcloth, sun protection, flashlight, HHDL Heart Sutra book, meditation cushion (if you have one, if not cushions will be provided), bedding (pillow, pillow case, sheets, sleeping bag and pad, blanket).
The weather near the end of March suggests temperatures ranging from lows around 40 F to highs of mid to upper 60s. And there is a possibility of rain at that time of the year. Check the weather report just prior to travel. And dress accordingly.
Please do not bring heavy energy consuming devices such as hair dryers, heating pads, electric blankets, space heaters or similar.
5. Communications
We ask that you consider leaving your cell phone, iPad and similar devices at home or giving them up while at the retreat as a way of taking a break from the daily routine of being bombarded by phone calls, messages, and news in this hyper-connected world. WIFI is available at the facility if absolutely needed.
The emergency contact phone number to leave with family/friends is: 831-624-3686. Though the voicemail greeting will be in Korean, still leave a message, and it will be responded to as soon as possible.
6. Shopping
Items will be available for sale at the retreat during breaks, including books, audio teachings, calligraphy, ritual items, etc. Discounts will be available for Manjushri Dharma Center members. Membership information is available on the website and at the retreat.
Directions
If you will be flying, the nearest airports are Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) and San Jose International Airport (SJC). From there, options for rides to the Temple might include: carpooling with a car rental, or using Uber or Lyft services.
If you are driving on Highway 1, turn East onto Carmel Valley Road. Travel 6 miles and turn right onto Robinson Canyon Road. After 0.3 miles, turn sharp right onto the road just past the Robinson Creek Bridge (signs will be posted to help identify the turnoff). When you get to a fork in the road, turn right to the Temple.
Handicapped parking is located to the upper left of the Temple building. All others, turn right down to the parking spaces in front of the building.
FAQs
How can I contact the organizer with any questions?
Please email Bob Mueller at muellerra@earthlink.net.
What’s the refund policy?
We can give refunds 30 days before the event. After that, please consider your payment a kind and helpful donation to the Manjushri Dharma Center.
Are scholarships available?
Yes, please email Shayna at edovid@aol.com.

CANCELED, Saturday Morning Meditation
2019-03-23 10:00 - 11:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
We will be in retreat on March 23rd, so no regular meditation class. We will resume again on March 30th.
Meditation is a helpful way to relax the body and calm the mind. Join us Saturday mornings as Rinpoche gives a brief teaching followed by silent meditation practice. Afterwards, we enjoy tea together. A donation of $10.00 per class is requested, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds.

CANCELED Monday Night Chanted Prayers
2019-03-25 18:30 - 20:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
We’re resting after the big retreat. Chanting will resume Monday, April 1.

Chanted prayers are an important component of training in spiritual life. They help us to still our mind, connect with the Buddhas and receive blessings. Join us on Monday evenings as Rinpoche leads us in chanted prayers recited in Tibetan and English. Prayers are typically those of Amitabha Buddha (Buddha of Infinite Light), but occasionally also Avalokiteshvara Buddha (Buddha of Infinite Compassion) or Medicine Buddha (Buddha of Infinite Healing). We imagine a world transformed, purified, and at peace. Beginners to advanced practitioners are welcome, prayer books are provided. Free of charge, but donations are welcome.

Sangye Tenzin Rinpoche Remembrance Day
2019-03-27 18:30 - 20:30 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Kyabje Sangye Tenzin Rinpoche was the kind heart teacher of our own Khenpo Karten Rinpoche. On this special Wednesday, following a brief Thargyen class teaching and in solidarity with KK Rinpoche’s home monastery in Tibet, we will remember the great kindness of Kyabje Sangye Tenzin Rinpoche. Sangye Tenzin spent 21 years in Chinese prison, yet he transformed the experience into pure spiritual food, and left with only good wishes for his captors. We will recite special prayers for Sangye Tenzin (Guru Yoga) composed by the Karmapa and Khenpo Karten Rinpoche, and reflect together on how we can use this great example in our lives. Participants may bring flowers for the altar if they wish, but simply participating is the best offering you can make as we honor this precious lineage.
Learn More about Sangye Tenzin Rinpoche: “Medicine for the Mind: On Using Suffering and Obstacles for Mental Development.”

Excellent Path of Freedom, The Jewel Ornament of Liberation in Brief
2019-04-03 18:30 - 20:30 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
The Jewel Ornament of Liberation, also known as the Thargyen, was originally composed by Ven. Gampopa (1079-1153), and presents all of Buddha’s 84,000 teachings, kindly organized into a step-by-step outline of the path to enlightenment. It is a foundational text in the Kagyu tradition. We are so fortunate that our resident lama Khenpo Karten Rinpoche has written a beautiful 80 verse distillation entitled Excellent Path of Freedom: The Jewel Ornament of Liberation in Brief, translated into English by Jampa Tharchin. As Rinpoche states in his colophon, it was written: “so that future disciples could know how to put all of the Jewel Ornament of Liberation into practice, day and night, in daily life…” Please join us for this very special weekly series as Rinpoche give commentary and teachings on his 80 verse composition, with consecutive interpretation kindly provided by Jampa Tharchin.
This is the second to last class in the series, which concludes April 10th, 2019.

Excellent Path of Freedom, The Jewel Ornament of Liberation in Brief
2019-04-10 18:30 - 20:30 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
The Jewel Ornament of Liberation, also known as the Thargyen, was originally composed by Ven. Gampopa (1079-1153), and presents all of Buddha’s 84,000 teachings, kindly organized into a step-by-step outline of the path to enlightenment. It is a foundational text in the Kagyu tradition. We are so fortunate that our resident lama Khenpo Karten Rinpoche has written a beautiful 80 verse distillation entitled Excellent Path of Freedom: The Jewel Ornament of Liberation in Brief, translated into English by Jampa Tharchin. As Rinpoche states in his colophon, it was written: “so that future disciples could know how to put all of the Jewel Ornament of Liberation into practice, day and night, in daily life…” Please join us for this very special weekly series as Rinpoche give commentary and teachings on his 80 verse composition, with consecutive interpretation kindly provided by Jampa Tharchin.
This is the last class in the series!

Wednesday Evening Heartfelt Advice of Dharma Nectar Practice Series
2019-04-17 18:30 - 19:30 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
A brand-new series begins on April 17, 2019, starting at 6:30 pm. This exciting addition to the MDC methods of learning the Dharma will involve an interactive discussion of, “A Ship Sailing to Liberation,” a commentary to the, “Heartfelt Advice of Dharma Nectar,” written by Khenpo Karten Rinpoche. Each session will consist of group reading of a section of the text followed by a moderated discussion of what that means to each of us, along with offering ideas and examples of how we might put each teaching into practice in our daily lives.
This new practice series will offer each of us the opportunity to discuss and clarify different points of the Dharma while being held in a safe and non-judgmental space. It will provide a means of offering support to our own practice. This is open to our entire sangha, and any other persons interested in exploring the Dharma. Bring a copy of the text if you have one. Extra copies will be available.
Donations to the MDC in any amount are appreciated but not required.

Canceled, Monday Night Chanted Prayers
2019-04-22 18:30 - 20:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
No Practice on Monday, April 22
