48 FEATURES • DORJE SHUGDEN in Sutra practices by encouraging Dharma learning and discipline in order to achieve Enlightenment. THE NINE MOTHERS They help Dorje Shugden’s faithful practitioners in their tantric practices. These kind Mothers also have the power to control the four elements (earth, water, fire and wind) and the five senses (sight, hearing, smell, touch and taste). THE 10 YOUTHFUL AND WRATHFUL ASSISTANTS They are representatives from 10 different parts of the world, a sign that Dorje Shugden’s practice will spread everywhere. These wrathful deities help practitioners overcome hurdles and guide them on the right path in their daily worldly activities. KACHE MARPO He is the main attendant of Dorje Shugden and is of the same mindstream as Hayagriva, who is an emanation of Buddha Avalokiteshvara. Kache Marpo is considered a Dharma Protector in his own right. NAMKA BARZIN Having joined Dorje Shugden’s entourage only approximately 75 years ago, he is its newest member. Namka Barzin was a Mongolian Geshe who died suddenly and developed wrath from his sudden, unexpected death. In order to utilise this wrath for the benefit of all sentient beings, he was subdued by Domo Geshe Rinpoche and invited to be a part of Dorje Shugden’s entourage. He is also a Dharma Protector in his own right but he is unenlightened. THE POWERFUL PRACTICE OF DORJE SHUGDEN THE BENEFITS Dorje Shugden offers a special type of protection day and night. His practice protects us from worldly dangers, helps us develop our skillful means, wisdom and great compassion (Bodhicitta), and removes all our obstacles. FOR SPIRITUAL PRACTICE He clears obstacles and brings us all the suitable conditions, resources and support to have a successful and fulfilling practice. He clears the way for us to gain attainment, peace and wisdom, so we can improve our lives. FOR HEALTH He brings healing to the body, mind and spirit. FOR PROTECTION He shields us from disturbing spirits, negative energies and black magic. FOR BUSINESS He clears obstacles and brings wealth. FOR STUDENTS He increases memory and intelligence. FOR TRAVEL He protects us from harm and dangers. HOW TO RELY ON DORJE SHUGDEN There are two ways to rely upon Dorje Shugden: in thought and in deeds. If we recognise that Dorje Shugden is the embodiment of the Three Jewels (the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha), if we remember his kindness in protecting and preserving the Buddhadharma, if we recall how he eliminates obstacles and gathers the necessary conditions for Dharma practitioners, and if, with deep faith, we develop respect for him and hold these special feelings continually, we are relying upon Dorje Shugden in thoughts. With deep faith and conviction in Dorje Shugden, we can recite his mantra and perform his puja while making offerings to him daily. We study the Lamrim, mind training teachings and so forth and we engage in retreats of Lama Tsongkhapa and Dorje Shugden. We abandon non-virtuous action and increase our virtuous deeds. Also, if we have a Guru, we should maintain our spiritual bond with our Guru and if we have vows and commitments that have been given to us by our Guru, we should uphold them and repair our broken commitments. Last of all, we surround ourselves with spiritual friends who support our practice or the very least, they do not lead us away from the Dharma. Whenever we engage in any of these deeds with faith, we are relying upon Dorje Shugden in deed.
FEATURES • DORJE SHUGDEN 49 reference: www.dorjeshugden.com
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