In Taipei, HH Kyabje Jonang Gyaltsab Khenpo Chökyi Nangwa Rinpoche (the lineage holder of the Jonang lineage in exile) was giving empowerments to the wonderful community of Taiwan Rime Kalachakra Buddhist Association (台灣不分教派時輪金剛佛學會). Our Dharma sisters and brothers here are among the most welcoming, disciplined, and genuine practitioners I have ever had the privilege of meeting. In between empowerments given over three days, I spoke with His Holiness on 28 and 29 March on Buddhist philosophy, the Kalachakra, and the situation of the world.
My conversation with His Holiness was deeply profound, and his reply to one of my questions, which was regarding Dharma practice in a world of negativity and degeneration, was very inspiring: “The sun is always shining.” Throughout the themes of the interview, he often urged a change in perspective, ranging from transcending dualities in the discussion about emptiness through the Shentong vision (a core teaching in the Jonang lineage) to the dissemination of the tradition. This was wisdom in action. In order to recognize our Luminous Mind, we must realize the primordial perfection of buddha-nature, or tathagathagarbha, the fundamental base of all enlightenment. If we can be mindful of our primordial buddha-nature, there are no dark times. We can all perceive and embody the light.
I am presently preparing the full written interview, while our team is also producing a series of videos of His Holiness’ responses. True to their professional and swift work, the Association also shared some reflections about the atmosphere and subjects of the encounter between His Holiness and myself. I believe that it captures quite well how I felt about our discussion.
Wisdom as Vast as the Ocean—Truly Admirable
During the interview, His Holiness drew upon his profound and expansive grounding in Buddhist teachings. From doctrine and practice to the depths of realization, he offered insights that were both accessible and deeply illuminating. Each question was met not merely with knowledge, but with wisdom and compassion born of lived experience. Every word went straight to the heart, and his manner revealed the noble bearing of a great master.
Authentic Realization—Deeply Moving
Confronted with His Holiness’s teachings and reflections, the visiting journalist and Dharma friend was profoundly touched, exclaiming with sincerity: “It is truly breathtaking.” This admiration arose not only from the depth of knowledge, but from the radiant power of realization shining through his words.
Let the Dharma Flow, Let the Light Endure
May this precious encounter serve as a cause for the light of the true Dharma to spread far and wide. And may more people, when the time is ripe, draw near to wise teachers, hear the authentic teachings, and embark upon the path of practice.
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HH Jonang Gyaltsab Rinpoche Seeks to Expand Jonang Kalachakra Meditation Institute in Dharamshala
The Jonang Gyaltsab Rinpoche in Taipei to Give Teachings and Transmissions
HH Jonang Gyaltsab Rinpoche Gives Kunchen Dolpo Buddha’s Collected Works’ Transmission in Kathmandu