Month: April 2025

On April 20, 2025, Tulku Thadral Will Oversee the Transmission of Dudjom Rinpoche’s Mind Treasure: Orgyen Menla

~ DudjomTersarNgondro

Orgyen Menla, also known as the Medicine Buddha, is a manifestation of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) in the form of a healing deity. In the Dudjom Tersar lineage, the practice of Orgyen Menla is encapsulated in the “Orgyen Menla Dütsi Bum Zang,” which translates to “The Excellent Vase of Nectar.” This practice is part of the Tsokye Thuk Thik cycle revealed by Dudjom Rinpoche, Jigdral Yeshe Dorje, in 1929. 

The primary aim of the Orgyen Menla practice is to alleviate both temporary and long-term ailments caused by disturbances in the body’s elements. Dudjom Rinpoche noted that its purpose is “to clear away all temporary and long-term deterioration that comes about through the disturbance of the elements and so forth of oneself and others.“  

Dudjom Rinpoche composed the practice while in Lhasa, as indicated in the colophon of the text. He wrote: “I, Jigdral Yeshe Dorje, wrote this down as it occurred to me during the auspicious time of the thirteenth day of the seventh month, on the eastern side of the Rasa Trulnang [Jokhang] temple in Lhasa, in the immeasurable palace of Napö, Lovely to Behold.“  (Heartteachings.com)

For those interested in engaging with this practice, Tulku Thadral Rinpoche will give the Empowerment during The 2025 Dudjom Ngondro Retreat on April 20th along with Refuge Ceremony, and Bodhisattva Vows. 

RESOURCES: 

Heart Teachings by Lama Tharchin Rinpoche offers the “Orgyen Menla Recitation 1997” mp3 and teachings.

To deepen one’s understanding, “The Excellent Vase of Nectar” text is available through Dharma Treasures, providing comprehensive guidance on the ritual and its significance. They also offer statues and images  of Orgyen Menla. 

These resources offer valuable opportunities for practitioners to connect with the healing aspects of Orgyen Menla within the Dudjom Tersar tradition.

 

Save the Date April 20th to Receive Refuge and Bodhisattva Vows

~ DudjomTersarNgondro

As part of the 2025 Annual Dudjom Ngondro Retreat, we offer and warmly invite you to join us for a special Refuge Ceremony and Bodhisattva Vows offered by Tulku Thadral Rinpoche on Tuesday, April 20, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM Pacific Time. 

What is Refuge?

In Tibetan Buddhism, the Ceremony of Refuge is a significant ritual where an individual formally takes refuge in the Three Jewels (or Three Refuges), which are considered the core principles and guiding forces of the Buddhist path. The Three Jewels are:

  1. The Buddha – The awakened one, who embodies the potential for enlightenment. Taking refuge in the Buddha means trusting in his teachings and understanding that the path to enlightenment is possible for all beings.

  2. The Dharma – The teachings of the Buddha, which provide the wisdom and guidance needed to overcome suffering and ignorance. Taking refuge in the Dharma means committing to studying and practicing these teachings.

  3. The Sangha – The community of practitioners who follow the Buddha’s teachings. The Sangha serves as a support system and a source of inspiration on the path. Taking refuge in the Sangha means finding guidance and companionship in a community of like-minded individuals who are also on the path.

What is the Bodhisattva Vow?

The Bodhisattva Vow is a profound aspiration to attain enlightenment not only for oneself but for the benefit of all sentient beings. It opens the heart and mind to boundless compassion. By taking this vow, we commit to the path of wisdom and compassion for the welfare of all.

Whether you are new to Vajrayana Practices or wishing to renew your vows, this is a precious opportunity to receive these vows directly from Tulku Thadral Rinpoche, a highly respected lineage holder in the Dudjom Tersar tradition.

All are welcome!
 Receive the Refuge and Bodhisattva Vows
Please note, you must receive the vows in real time.
Please make every effort to be on time..

For First-Time Refuge Recipients:
If you are taking Refuge for the first time, please sign up to receive your digital Refuge card, which will includes the Refuge Vows, your global Refuge name (male and female), date you through ok the Refuge Vows, a beautiful photo of Shakyamuni Buddha and Tulku Thadral Rinpoche’s signature authenticating that you have received the Refuge Vows..

Sign up here to receive your digital Refuge Card

Can You Share Some Testimonials from Previous Attendees for the Annual Ngondro Retreat?

~ DudjomTersarNgondro

Previous attendees of the Dudjom Ngondro retreat often highlight the transformative impact of the experience. Many describe feeling a deep sense of connection to the teachings and the sangha, which fosters a supportive and nurturing environment. Participants frequently mention the authenticity of the guidance provided by the lamas and the immersive nature of the retreat, which helps them deepen their practice and understanding of Ngondro.

One attendee shared that the retreat helped them overcome personal obstacles in their spiritual journey, while another expressed gratitude for the opportunity to receive direct transmissions and teachings in such a serene setting. The sense of community and shared purpose is often praised, as it creates a space for mutual encouragement and growth.

“As a Ngöndro practitioner, I highly recommend attending the Vajrayana Foundation’s Ngöndro Retreat. Since I started my Ngöndro practice at the end of 2019, I have been attending this retreat every year, initially online during the pandemic and later in person. Being at Pema Ösel Ling, connecting with the Lamas and the Sangha, is a powerful experience.”

— Esther Oswald

“I felt a sense of softening and relief during my brief stay, and all that occurred happened so easily and meaningfully. It changed me and brought me a sense of deeper peace in my heart.”

— Sarah Marcus

“I was able to attend retreats over the years, which were so inspiring. I had the opportunity to receive teachings from some of the greatest masters, and the experience deeply enriched my practice.”

— Anonymous

Whether you are just beginning or continuing your Ngondro, we warmly invite you to reconnect with your practice in the blessed environment of Pema Osel Ling.

Every year, practitioners from around the world gather here to receive profound teachings, deepen their practice, and experience the power of sangha.

We hope you’ll join us for this rare and precious opportunity to engage in the Dudjom Tersar Ngondro in an atmosphere of genuine support and transmission.

Retreat Dates: April 12 ~ 20, 2025

Location: Pema Osel Ling, Santa Cruz Mountains

Registration & Info: https://www.vajrayana.org/events/293/

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. We look forward to practicing together!