September/October 2002 Spirituality
The Khenpos Visit Portland for the First Time in Three Years
by Paul Levy
For the first time in three years, this September 28th - October 1,
Portland will play host to two of Tibet's greatest and most beloved
living masters, His Eminence Khenchen Palden Sherab Rinpoche, and his
brother, the Venerable Khenpo Tsewang Dongyal Rinpoche. "The Khenpos,"
as they are affectionately known to their students worldwide, will be
giving a series of teachings, transmissions and empowerments on the
nature of the enlightened mind. Filled with childlike wonder, genuine
humility and eternal gratitude, the Khenpos truly touch people, opening
up hearts everywhere they go.
Dzogchen, the Great Perfection, is the highest teaching in all of Buddhism,
and is the culmination of all spiritual paths. The Khenpos are considered
to be living Dzogchen masters and holders of this ancient lineage. The
Khenpos will be giving instructions on the famous Dzogchen teaching
of Longchenpa, "The Precious Garland of Four Dharma Points"
on September 28th and 29th. Longchenpa is widely
recognized to be an incarnation of Manjushri, the Bodhisattva of wisdom,
who taught in Tibet in the 1300s. "The Precious Garland of Four
Dharma Points" directly points out the fresh, naked awareness of
the primordial state as one's own inherent nature.
The Khenpos will also give the empowerment, or blessing ceremony, of
Vajrasarasvati, who is an emanation of Tara, the mother of all the Buddhas.
Vajrasarasvati is both a Buddhist and Hindu goddess of art, music, poetry
and beauty, and this empowerment will increase creativity and inspiration,
dispelling ignorance and giving birth to wisdom.
The teachings are on Saturday, September 28, from 10-4pm, and continuing
on Sunday, September 29th, from 1-5pm. The Empowerment is on Tuesday
night, October 1, at 7 pm. All events will be at the Unity Church, 4525
SE Stark. The cost for Saturday is $60; Sunday's teaching is $40; Tuesday
is $15. Please call (503) 230-4841 for further information.