China have about a dozen of hanging temples. They are truly relics in Chinese architecture history. The most famous hanging Temple, is Hengshan Hanging Temple, Hanging Monastery or Xuankong Temple, is a unique and ancient structure located in Hunyuan County, Datong City, Shanxi Province, China. This temple is built into a cliff that stands 75 meters or 246 feet above the ground, near Mount Heng. The closest city, Datong, is located 64 kilometers or 40 miles to the northwest.
The Hanging Temple is one of the main tourist attractions and historical sites in the Datong area, along with the Yungang Grottoes. It is considered unique because it is the only existing temple that combines three Chinese traditional philosophies or religions: Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. The structure is held in place with oak crossbeams that are fitted into holes chiseled into the cliffs, and the main supportive structure is hidden inside the bedrock.
The temple was built more than 1,500 years ago by a monk named Liaoran in 491 AD. Over the years, many repairs and extensions have been made to the temple, leading to its present-day scale. The temple comprises of 40 halls and pavilions that are all built on cliffs that are over 30 meters or 98 feet from the ground. The distance from north to south is longer than from east to west, and it becomes higher and higher as one moves from the south gate to the north along the mountain.
The temple’s layout includes the Qielan Hall (Hall of Sangharama), Sanguan Hall (Hall of Three Officials), Chunyang Hall, Hall of Sakyamuni, Hall of Three Religions, and Guanyin Hall. The Hall of Three Religions mainly enshrines Buddhist deities, as well as both Taoism and Confucianism. The statues of Sakyamuni (middle), Lao-Tze (left) and Confucius (right) are enshrined in the hall, reflecting the prevailing idea of “Three Teaching Harmonious as One” in the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368–1911).
The Hanging Temple is a unique and ancient structure that combines three Chinese traditional philosophies or religions, and is one of the main tourist attractions and historical sites in the Datong area. Its location on a sheer precipice and its history make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting China.
You can visit the Hanging Temple all year around, but considering the Datong weather, normally from April to October is the best period. Datong has a temperate continental climate with distinct seasons, low rainfall, a short summer, and a long freezing winter (November–March).
There are big temperature differences between morning and night, day to day, and mountain and valley, so please bring a warm jacket with you even if you travel in the summer time.
In order to protect the temple, the number of visitors is limited to 80 in the temple at a time. Therefore, it is recommended to visit the Hanging Temple early in the morning to avoid long waits especially in the high travel seasons (summer and holidays).
Winter break is a time for family, fun, and relaxation, and this year my family and I decided to take a road trip. My sons planned all the details, from where to go and what to see, to where to stay. Our itinerary included stops in Las Vegas, Zion National Park, Antelope Canyon Valley, and Grand Canyon National Park. We set off right after Christmas, with our first destination being Las Vegas.
During the 9-hour drive to Las Vegas, my husband and two boys took turn to drive. To my surprise I felt a sense of calm and relaxation that I had never experienced before while on a road trip. In the past, I would have been sweating and nervous while my sons were driving, but this time I was able to enjoy the scenery, nap, and snack while calmly chanting the Buddha’s name in my mind. This experience helped me to understand the Heart Sutra more deeply, which states “…. Without any hindrance, no fears exist, far apart from every perverted view, the bodhisattva entered complete nirvana….”
The Heart Sutra teaches about the nature of reality, and this passage in particular expresses the idea that when we let go of our attachments and fears, we can experience true freedom and peace. This is what I felt during my road trip – a sense of having no worries, fears, or hindrances. I was able to fully enjoy the beauty of the landscape and the company of my family without any distractions.
Not only did I have a great time on the trip, but I also feel a sense of progress in my personal cultivation. I am happy to see that I have made some progress in my mindfulness and relaxation practices. This road trip was a perfect opportunity to put them into practice and experience the benefits firsthand.
A road trip is a way to disconnect from the daily stressors and focus on the present moment. It is also a great opportunity to explore new places, create memories with loved ones, and reflect on your personal growth.
First Stop: Las Vegas
The first stop on the road trip was Las Vegas, and we had a great time exploring the city. One of the highlights of my trip was seeing the beautiful music fountain and Christmas-themed conservatory at the Bellagio. The water was choreographed to the beat of the music and the colorful lights added to the visual spectacle. It was a perfect way to relax after a day of sightseeing.
In addition to the music fountain, I also got to experience the festive holiday atmosphere in Las Vegas. The city was decked out in holiday decor, with colorful lights and decorations adorning the streets and buildings. It really added to the holiday cheer and made me feel like I was in a winter wonderland.
To get around the city, we took the monorail, which was a convenient and easy way to travel. It was a great alternative to driving or taking a taxi and it allowed me to see some of the city’s landmarks and attractions from a different perspective.
January 1st in the Chinese lunar calendar, is chinese Spring festival, it is the biggest holiday in china. It is also the holy birthday of Maitreya Bodhisattva – the next Buddha in the saha world. This is a special and joyful holiday that is celebrated by many. Hua Zang Si in San Francisco held a Dharma Assembly to celebrate this important occasion. It was the first Dharma Assembly of the year and it was held on a beautiful sunny day. Many laypersons participated in the event.
At the entrance of the temple is an oversize marvelous statue representation of a jolly, laughing Buddha: Maitreya Bodhisattva (the next Buddha in this Saha world). It is such a warm welcoming sign. The big belly not only means jolly, it also means tolerating the intolerable things in the world. So when you look at the statue, you will start to feel that learning Buddhism is happy and kind.
The Dharma Assembly was an opportunity for people to come together and celebrate the teachings of Maitreya Bodhisattva. It was a time for reflection and meditation, as well as a chance to learn more about the teachings of Buddhism. The atmosphere was filled with positivity and joy, as people came together to celebrate this important holiday.
In Chinese culture, Maitreya Bodhisattva is seen as a symbol of joy and tolerance. As practitioners of Buddhism, we are encouraged to strive to be like the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas by cultivating a broad mind, open heart, and great tolerance.
One of the key principles of Buddhism is patience and forbearance, particularly under insult. This is seen as a key aspect of self-cultivation and it is important to remember that everything in the dharma realms can change from ordinary to holy. This means that even difficult situations can be transformed and overcome through the practice of patience and tolerance.
Patience and tolerance are not just passive qualities, but rather active ones that require effort and practice. We must actively cultivate them in our daily lives and strive to maintain them even in difficult situations. Through this practice, we can transform our own minds and hearts, becoming more like the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas that we strive to emulate.
At the Dharma Assembly, we chanted the Eighty-eight holy Buddha name jeweled repentance sutra, in hopes that the Buddhas will wash away all of our sins and negative karmas. After the chanting, we offered a meal to the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. The event concluded with a dharma talk given by Dharma Master Ruohui.
During her talk, Dharma Master Ruohui emphasized the importance of faith, vows, and actions for disciples of Buddhism. She explained that faith is the foundation of our practice, and that with strong faith, we will have the determination to follow the Buddha’s teachings and put them into action in our lives.
The Dharma Assembly was a meaningful event where participants not only had the opportunity to reflect on their own spiritual growth but also to make an impact on the world around them. During the assembly, the participants returned the merit to all living beings, holding the hope that they shall be rid of suffering, obtain happiness, and have the opportunity to listen to authentic Buddha Dharma.
The act of returning merit is an important aspect of Buddhist practice as it is believed that by dedicating the positive energy generated through our spiritual practice to the benefit of others, we can help bring about peace and prosperity in the world. By returning merit to all living beings, participants were able to contribute to the collective well-being of the world and make a positive impact on the lives of others.
Furthermore, the participants also held the hope that by listening to authentic Buddha Dharma, they will be able to perfect their fortune and wisdom, leading to a more prosperous and peaceful world for all. This is the ultimate goal of Buddhism, to help all beings to find inner peace, happiness and liberation from suffering.
On January 19, 2011, Mayor Vincent C. Gray, the mayor of our nation’s capital Washington, DC, personally signed and issued a proclamation in which January 19, 2011 was proclaimed as His Holiness Dorje Chang Buddha III Day.
In that proclamation, Mayor Gray called upon all residents of Washington, DC to join him in saluting H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III! The mayor stated that H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III has, through his selfless and exceptional work, spread the word of peace to all those in his presence. The mayor commended H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III for his vast accomplishments that have helped to strengthen the foundation of a peaceful society, in not only His Holiness’s region of the world but in the Washington, DC community as well. Additionally, Mayor Gray praised H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha IIIas the World Buddhist Leader who ceaselessly, compassionately, and without remuneration uses his wisdom, talents and moral character to help those in need.
The video below has a brief introduction of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, that helps you to know some great achievements and teachings of the Buddha.
Buddha taught that all living beings have Buddha-nature, and that we shall treat them as family members and relatives. To celebrate this very special day, Hua Zang Si held a Dharma Assembly to release captive lives and pray for blessings at a beautiful port in San Rafael CA , on January 19th 2023. Many laypersons in the bay area and central CA participated the event.
Namo H.H. Dorje Chang BuddhaIII and Namo Shakyamuni Buddha taught us :”No matter where it is and when it is, if we see living beings in horrible fears and calamitous adversity, we must save them. Therefore, for any lives that are facing the urgent and terrible fear of going to be hurt or killed, we shall save them out and release them into an environment that suits them, so as to let them regain the freedom and be free from fears. There is a phrase that says, ‘I love to see them live, and I dare not see them die.’ Based on our compassion and empathy, we want to endow living beings with happiness and rid them of sufferings.
With the Dharma Assembly, participants returned the merit to all living beings, holding the hope that they shall be rid of suffering, obtain happiness, and have the opportunity to listen to authentic Buddha Dharma, perfecting fortune and wisdom, and leading to prosperity and peace throughout the world.
About 20 years ago, I participated in a retreat that focused on organic farming, nutrition, and spirituality, at Santa Barbara CA. While much of what I learned during the retreat has since slipped from my memory, one aspect of the experience has remained with me: my encounter with the beautiful soul known as Peace Pilgrim.
I never had the opportunity to meet Peace Pilgrim in person, but I was deeply moved by her book, “Peace Pilgrim: Step toward Inner Peace,” which I read in Chinese. I couldn’t believe that such an amazing and spiritual person existed. Peace Pilgrim’s journey across America to spread the message of peace, with nothing but the clothes on her back, was truly inspiring. The book left a lasting impression on me, and it actually started my spiritual journey.
Peace Pilgrim, born Mildred Lisette Norman, was a spiritual teacher and peace activist who walked across America several times in the 1950s and 1960s to spread the message of peace. She traveled on foot, carrying only a few possessions and wearing a tunic with the words “Peace Pilgrim” written on it.
During her journey, Peace Pilgrim spoke to thousands of people about the importance of inner peace and the role it plays in creating a more peaceful world. She believed that true peace could only be achieved when individuals found inner peace within themselves, and that this inner peace would radiate outwards to create a more peaceful society.
Peace Pilgrim’s message resonated with many people, and her simple, yet powerful words inspired many to work towards peace in their own lives and in the world. She wrote several books, including “Peace Pilgrim: Her Life and Work in Her Own Words,” which chronicled her journey and the lessons she learned along the way.
In a time of great turmoil and uncertainty, the message of Peace Pilgrim is more relevant than ever. Her teachings remind us that true peace begins within, and that each of us has the power to make a difference in the world by finding inner peace and living a life of compassion and kindness. Her spirit and teachings continue to inspire and guide many people, and her message of peace will continue to resonate for years to come.
In this pandemic and tough time, her message of inner peace could be a guiding light for many people. World will have true peace until each one of us find our inner peace. Her teachings and stories are an inspiration for all of us to work on peace for the whole world. May her spirit and teachings continue to guide and inspire us all to work towards a more peaceful world.
Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang is a highly skilled and talented artist who has created a unique form of art using hand-sculpted wood and oil paints. Her faux coral sculptures are so realistic that they are often mistaken for real coral. The texture, watery tone, colors, and charm of her sculptures are breathtaking and truly unique.
In 2008, Dr. Wang’s artworks were exhibited in the Gold Room at the United States Capitol, where her talents were recognized by the United States Congress. She was officially recognized as “a great artist and sculptor” for her outstanding accomplishments and contributions to cultural exchange between the East and the West.
Coral reefs are one of nature’s most impressive creations, often referred to as the “rainforests of the sea.” They are massive structures made of limestone deposited by coral polyps. Dr. Wang’s sculptures not only capture the beauty of coral reefs but also showcase her own artistic talents. Her work truly is a testament to the power of human creativity and imagination.
Parched Ancient Coral
This piece was hand-sculpted and painted in oil colors by Professor Yuhua Shouzhi Wang. Its shape and colors are even more genuine-looking and beautiful than those of real coral from the bottom of the sea or parched islands. When touching this sculpture, it tangibly feels like coral that has been eroded through immersion in water for millions of years. One cannot help but marvel at how such coral texture is created by Prof. Wang. Corals of such kind are difficult to find. Its appeal is further enhanced by the matching hand-sculpted vase called Emerald Green Fine Jade. The set has an air of elegance and refinement, surpassing the beauty of natural coral.
Sheep Tallow Dew
Pink, moist-looking, and with an understated luster, this faux coral seems as sleek as sheep tallow jade. It conveys a sense of morning dew that is deeply moving. Its wonder, colors, lustrous beauty, overall quality, and artistic flair unite to form a precious sculpture captivating in both spirit and appearance. Combined with a hand-sculpted, delightful, elegant matching vase of milky white faux jade, it becomes a doubly charming masterpiece. When a special exhibition of the art of Yuhua Shouzhi Wang was held at the United States Capitol, it was stated in the Congressional Record that her wood-based faux coral and cobblestones that she hand-sculpted and painted with oil colors “have become treasures of the world.”
Hanging Coral
This attractively hanging coral is as clean as white jade. After it was sculpted from wood material, it was painted with oil colors and glazed. It conveys a sense of moistness and distinctive texture stemming from its natural-looking shape, hues, and luster. It is sleek yet true to life as if it were real coral. All who view it will enjoy its purity, elegance, and comforting air. Combined with the matching vase called “Cai Yi Tao,” this faux coral appears even more beautiful, attractive, and elegant than real ones in nature. This piece was on view in a dedicated exhibition of Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang at the United States Capitol in 2008.
Sea Palace Monarch
This gigantic coral you now see has been named “Sea Palace Monarch.” Presumably, your first feeling was that of surprise. Is it a genuine coral? Does such large coral exist in the world? If it is not a genuine coral, then why do its luster, texture, and appearance look so real and natural? From the bottom of your heart, you would happily accept it as genuine coral because it is truly so beautiful, so aesthetically pleasing. How beautiful your living room would be if it contained this sculpture! Nonetheless, reason and knowledge tell you that this world could not possibly have genuine coral so huge and so gorgeous. Indeed, even if you searched every corner of every coral reef in the oceans of the earth, you would still not find coral of such beauty and size. Its name, “Sea Palace Monarch,” means that it is the sovereign of the seas since it is the largest treasure in all the oceans. However, such colossal and splendid coral cannot be found in real oceans because it simply does not exist in this world.
Each of these three faux coral sculptures has its own distinct allure and shades of color. The aged appearance of the mouse-fur-pattern faux coral gives it the particularly strong charm of an ancient fossil from the deep sea. However, the green faux coral, which seems permeable to light, looks as if it was taken from the waters near Malaysia and Indonesia. It was painted in vivid watercolors and conveys sublime elegance. Its delightful spring green expresses purity and freshness. The yellow faux coral resembling fine jade reveals an inner warmth that would certainly be enjoyable to the touch. Each of these three works is an embodiment of talent in sculpting and painting.
With unparalleled works of art such as this, it is no wonder the artistic accomplishments of Yuhua Shouzhi Wang were recognized as “treasures of the world.” Those amazing beautiful treasures are in the permanent exhibition at The International Art Museum of America in downtown San Francisco. Admission of the museum is free.
Recently, my two college-aged sons have been expressing that they find life to be difficult. In an effort to provide them with guidance and support, I have been offering them spiritual advice and emotional support. While searching for resources to assist in this endeavor, I stumbled upon the profound and enlightening book, The Road Less Traveled, by Scott Peck. The insights and philosophy presented within the book have been incredibly inspiring and beneficial in helping me to support my sons in their journey.
The Road Less Traveled is a self-help book by American psychiatrist and author Scott Peck, first published in 1978. The book has had a significant impact, selling millions of copies and remaining on the New York Times bestseller list for more than ten years. One of the main themes of the book is the concept of the four disciplines: psychiatry, psychology, religion, and philosophy. Each discipline offers unique perspectives on how to navigate the challenges of life and achieve personal growth.
The book’s central message is that life is difficult, but that this difficulty can be transcended by understanding and accepting it. Peck argues that discipline is the basic tool we need to solve life’s problems, and that with enough discipline we can solve all problems. Additionally, the book explores themes of love, relationships, parenting, and self-discovery, as well as teaching about distinguishing dependency from love and how to become one’s true self.
Life is a series of problems. It is something that we all must face and deal with on a daily basis. Some of these problems may be small and easily solved, while others may be more complex and difficult to overcome. The question we must ask ourselves is: do we want to moan about these problems or do we want to solve them?
As adults, we have the power to choose how we react to life’s problems. We can choose to bemoan our difficulties and wallow in our troubles, or we can choose to take action and find solutions. The latter approach is far more productive and will ultimately lead to greater satisfaction and fulfillment in life.
In addition to making this choice for ourselves, it is also important to teach our children to solve problems in a similar manner. As parents, we have a responsibility to guide and teach our children, helping them to develop the skills and mindset needed to overcome the challenges that life will inevitably present to them.
One of the most important tools we have for solving life’s problems is discipline. Without discipline, we will not be able to effectively tackle the issues that we face. With only some discipline, we may be able to solve only some problems, but with total discipline, we can solve all problems. Discipline is the key to success in any endeavor. It allows us to focus our minds and efforts, to set goals and make plans, and to persist in the face of adversity.
It is important to note that problems do not go away on their own. They must be worked through and dealt with, otherwise they will remain forever, acting as a barrier to the growth and development of the spirit. It is essential that we learn to face and overcome problems, rather than avoiding or ignoring them.
One way to do this is by learning to Delay Gratification. By scheduling the pain and pleasure of life in a way that we deal with pain first and get it over with, it allows us to enhance the pleasure we gain from it. This is the only decent way to live. With discipline, we can solve most of the problems, and delay gratification is a process that can help us to get through the most difficult moments.
Peck also emphasizes the importance of Love and Community in personal growth. He argues that true love is not just an emotional state, but also an action, and that it requires a commitment to growth and self-discipline. He also stresses the importance of community, stating that “the love of community is the only true love.”
I have also found out in Buddhism, love has a deeper meaning that goes beyond romantic or familial feelings. It encompasses compassion and the belief in treating all beings as if they were our own relatives or parents. In What is Cultivation by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, says: “Loving-kindness: At all times, through the actions of my three karmas, I am loving and kind toward all living beings, who have been my parents. I wish them a long life without illness, good fortune, good luck, and a happy life. ” This means that at all times, through all our actions, thoughts, and words, we should strive to be loving and kind towards all living beings, recognizing that they have been our parents in past lives. This belief is expressed through the wish for all beings to have a long life free from illness, good fortune, good luck, and happiness. This unconditional love can have a positive impact on individuals who are facing challenges and difficulties in their lives.
Everyone must face and deal with the challenges and difficulties in life. Moaning about them or solving them, it’s a choice we make, and the latter can lead to greater satisfaction and fulfillment in life. Teaching our children to solve problems in a similar manner and helping them to develop the discipline and tools needed, that could be in religions or philosophy or psychology, to succeed in life is an essential responsibility of parenthood.
In the National Geographic channel’s “The Power of Miracles” episode of “The Story of God with Morgan Freeman,” Freeman delves into the concept of miracles and the role they play in different cultures and religions around the world. Throughout the episode, Freeman explores the various stories and accounts of miracles that have been passed down through traditional cultures and religions. These stories often involve healing, protection, and other seemingly miraculous events.
One of the main focuses of the episode is the stories of miracle in Christianity. Freeman visits the site of a Catholic pilgrimage in Lourdes, France, where thousands of people travel each year to pray for healing. Freeman also visits the site of a Marian apparition in Medjugorje, Bosnia, where six children reported seeing the Virgin Mary in 1981. Freeman also meets with people who believe they were healed as a result of the apparition, which is still ongoing. Freeman also explores other religion’s records of miracles like the Jewish Kabbalah, and the Islamic Hadith.
While some people may be skeptical of these stories, Freeman makes it clear that they hold great significance for the people who believe in them. For many, these stories of miracles provide hope, inspiration, and a sense of connection to something greater than themselves. Freeman ultimately concludes that miracles are about the power of belief, and that the belief in something larger than ourselves can have a profound impact on our lives.
Watching this episode is a miracle for me. I explored so many beautiful places, cultures and religions. It’s a must watch for people with an interest in the intersection of faith and science, and in the power of belief to shape our lives.
If you’re a fan of cobblestone streets and the charming, rustic aesthetic they bring to a neighborhood, you’ll love these hand painted cobblestones created by Professor Yuhua Shouzhi Wang. These cobblestones were painstakingly hand-sculpted from a light-weight material and then completed with fine, dedicated brushwork by the artist.
Although they may look like real cobblestones at first glance, these pieces are actually more beautiful than the real thing. They are precious works of art, not actual cobblestones. Upon closer examination, it is clear that the texture and color tones of these faux cobblestones are just as realistic as the real ones.
Professor Wang has spent many years sculpting these cobblestones from a light-weight material, and has then meticulously completed them with her fine brushwork. The result is a set of cobblestones that are not only beautiful, but also have the same texture and color tones as real ones. It’s hard to believe that these cobblestones are not the real thing when you look at them.
In The International Art Museum of America permanent exhibition, has a set of seventy seven these cobblestones in total. These cobblestones are more than just a pretty facade. They are truly works of art, and a testament to the dedication and talent of Professor Wang. Every pebble she creates is unique, with its own shape, texture, color, and degree of weathering and aging. And with each pebble being an independent fine brushwork painting, it’s clear to see the level of detail and craftsmanship that goes into each one.
In year 2019, New York Academy of Art has certified that Dr. Yuhua Shouzhi Wang is the international first-class artist in the world, who is ranked at the same level as Cezanne, Gaugain, Monet, and Van Gogh.
If you have the opportunity to see Professor Wang’s hand painted cobblestones in person, I highly recommend it. They are a sight to behold and a true work of art. You’ll be amazed at the level of detail and craftsmanship that has gone into creating these precious pieces. So don’t miss the chance to see these hand painted cobblestones at The International Art Museum of America in downtown San Francisco. Admission of the museum is free.
When I was respectfully on my knees and holding my palms together in front of my kind Buddha Master’s dharma seat for the first time, as soon as I raised my eyebrows to have my eyesight in a light contact with the loving, compassionate, and benevolent eyes of my Buddha Master, I immediately had the belief that my Master is a Buddha! However, my Buddha Master never stated to anyone what holy being he was in past lifetimes. Conversely, he always claimed to be a servant of everyone.
During the past ten years, I closely attended by the side of my Buddha Master and also carried out quite a number of Buddhist deeds following my Buddha Master. The holy states and holy realizations manifested by my Buddha Master such as proficient in both exoteric and esoteric Buddhism, perfect and deep mastery of the Five Vidyas, and great wisdom unrivaled by any human or holy beings are unprecedented in the history of both exoteric and esoteric Buddhism.
My firm belief of “My master is a Buddha” that I had in my mind for years was finally confirmed from the treasure book of H. H. Dorje Chang Buddha IIIthat was presented to the Congress of the United States by the International Buddhism Shanga Association on April 3, 2008. The identity of my Buddha Master, known by people in the world as Master Wan Ko Yee, was revealed through either meditation or practice of the dharma in a profound state of supernatural vision by the first-class great holy virtuous ones, who are incarnations of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. They announced the background of H.H. Wan Ko Yeshe Norbu, who was long ago recognized by H.H. Great Dharma King Zunsheng (the manifestation of Mahavairocana Buddha) as Buddha Vajradhara. Through strict practice of the dharma and meditation these holy monastics deeply entered the dharma realm and supernaturally saw the true source. The result was they learned that this being of great virtue and holiness is the second incarnation of Vimalakirti and the third incarnation of Dorje Chang Buddha. They wrote down their certificates of recognition according to the rules of Buddhism in which they recognized that H.H. Master Wan Ko Yee is H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III — the highest ancient Buddha in exoteric, esoteric, Mahayana, Hinayana, and Vajrayana Buddhism; the master of the Five Buddhas in the five directions; and the master of the great mahasattva Vajrasattva. That is, they recognized that H.H. Master Wan Ko Yee is the Holiest Tathagata Wan Ko Yeshe Norbu, the current greatest leader of Buddhism in the entire dharma realm!
Those eminent monks and dharma kings also wrote words praising H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III as being the highest and greatest holy being and the only one in the history of Buddhism who has truly exhibited before living beings item after item of accomplishments in the Five Vidyas.
From that, I realized the truth behind what I experienced quite a few years ago when a huge and gigantic material, in less than two hours of time, became a piece of extremely finely carved and crafted miraculously wondrous holy Yun sculpture artwork. Such holy realization was just a manifestation of the craftsmanship vidya of the Five Vidyas by my magnificent Buddha Master, due to the affinity of living beings.
My Grand Master, H.H. Great Dharma King Zunsheng, stated in a formal pronouncement about my great and kind Buddha Master that the realization of any eminent monastic or person of great virtue in the world today cannot rival the realization of Holiest Tathagata Wan Ko Yeshe Norbu. H.H. Great Dharma King Zunsheng also made the following vow of truth: “If any person or holy being is able to duplicate the mysterious sculpted treasures created by H.H. Wan Ko Yeshe Norbu, then this formal pronouncement of Great Dharma King Zunsheng has deceived the public.” (The mysterious sculpted treasures are “Enchanting Colors of Utmost Mystery,” “Mysterious Boulder with Mist,” and certain other Yun sculptures with specific names.)
Yun Sculpture by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III
According to the system and rules of Buddhism in this world, there are only two beings of great holiness whose expositions of the dharma can be categorized as sutras. One of them is Sakyamuni Buddha. The other is the holy and venerable Vimalakirti. Besides those two, all other expositions of the dharma can only be called commentary rather than sutras. This is true no matter how great the Bodhisattva who has expounded the dharma is.
Some people say that Hui Neng (the sixth patriarch master of the Zen School) gave the Platform Sutra of the Sixth Patriarch. Actually, the word sutra was used due to exaggerated praise given to Hui Neng by people of the world who did not understand the system and rules of Buddhism. The rank of the sixth patriarch was even lower than that of many Bodhisattvas. For example, Maitreya Bodhisattva is the next Buddha, who will conduct the Dragon Flower Assembly. The position of Maitreya Bodhisattva is very much higher than that of Hui Neng. However, expositions of the dharma given by Maitreya Bodhisattva cannot be called sutras. They can only be accepted as commentary. An example of this is the Yogācāra-bhūmi-śāstra. (Discourse on the Stages of Concentration Practice)
The holy and venerable Vimalakirti descended into this world during the time of Sakyamuni Buddha. He is the only ancient Buddha who transformed into a layman to expound the dharma. Sakyamuni Buddha personally taught the four types of disciples. Among them were the 500 monks who were difficult to teach and who did not want to arouse Mahayana bodhicitta. A skillful means was used to teach all of the monastics and 8,000 Bodhisattvas. After the ancient Buddha Dorje Chang expounded dharma in Abhirati (World of Wonderful Joy), the Buddha responded to karmic conditions by transforming into the holy and venerable Vimalakirti to help the Buddha teach the sangha, Bodhisattvas, and other disciples. The goal was to protect and uphold the Buddha-dharma taught by Sakyamuni Buddha. The level of realization attained by the holy and venerable Vimalakirti was the same as that attained by Sakyamuni Buddha. However, He did not want to assume the status of another leader of the religion in the human realm, thereby causing sectarianism and adding to the self-centeredness of practitioners. Considering that Sakyamuni Buddha became a Buddha in this earthly World, the holy and venerable Vimalakirti acknowledged Sakyamuni as Buddha and chose to assist Sakyamuni Buddha by manifesting as a Bodhisattva.
Thus, the holy and venerable Vimalakirti acted in the same way that the ancient Buddha Zheng Fa Ming (True Dharma Brightness) Tathagata acted when the Buddha transformed into Kuan Shi Yin Bodhisattva and also acted in the same way as Manjushri Bodhisattva, the Master of seven Buddhas, did to play the role of a Bodhisattva to support Sakyamuni Buddha. All of this was done to benefit living beings. If two Buddhas of the same rank appeared at the same time, it would cause worldly divisions. It would hinder the development of Buddha-dharma and the saving of living beings. Actually, Buddhas do not care who emerges as the leader of Buddhism. The Buddhas appear in whatever form and manner that best benefit living beings. Everything is done for the benefit of living beings based upon bodhicitta.
Therefore, people in general have no way of discovering that the realization and enlightenment of the holy and venerable Vimalakirti were that high and that He was the incarnation of Dorje Chang Buddha, the foremost ancient Buddha who existed before Sakyamuni Buddha. However, the dharma discourses of the holy and venerable Vimalakirti are sutras, just as the dharma discourses of the Buddha, not commentaries. In the system of Buddhism, one such discourse is called Vilmalakirti-nirdesa Sutra (The Sutra of Vimalakirti). That sutra came into being during the same time period Sakyamuni Buddha was giving sutras. It is a very important Buddhist sutra. The Vimalakirti-nirdesa Sutra has been studied and followed in both Mahayana Buddhism and Hinayana Buddhism that was mostly propagated in Southern Asia.
When H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III was born, the beating of drums suddenly sounded in the sky, and beautiful, heavenly music could be heard. Three rainbows approximately forty to fifty meters (131-164 feet) apart appeared simultaneously in the sky. The middle one was primarily blue, the right one primarily red, and the left one primarily white. At birth, the entire body of His Holiness was dark blue. No cries from His Holiness could be heard. Rather, His Holiness opened his mouth and very clearly stated, “I have entered this world. I am completely proficient in exoteric and esoteric Buddhism and will wondrously manifest the Five Vidyas. Compare and you will know.” After speaking such words, His Holiness remained silent and appeared just like an ordinary child. The parents of His Holiness thought that they had given birth to a mysterious and extraordinary human being but did not tell anyone about this. His Holiness did not speak again until He was three years old.
When His Holiness was three years old, H.H. Mahavairocana Dharma King Zunsheng guided His Holiness in learning the Tripitaka. At that time, His Holiness was taught to recite the heart mantra of Dorje Chang Buddha seven times. This little child suddenly laughed heartily and immediately manifested the Three Bodies and Four Wisdoms. H.H. Great Dharma King Zunsheng at once tested His Holiness’s knowledge of the Tripitaka and the esoteric scriptures. The Dharma Prince child explained such writings with great facility. There was nothing in them that His Holiness did not understand. His Holiness had realized all of the doctrines and principles of such teachings.
H.H. Mahavairocana Dharma King Zunsheng then gave the following formal pronouncement: “Dorje Chang Buddha has come to this world a third time. The holy and venerable Vimalakirti has descended from the skies a second time. He completely understands the scriptures on the dharma. His Four Wisdoms are wonderfully perfect. He is an ancient Buddha upon whom living beings can rely. No master is qualified to teach Him. His mysterious sculpted treasures will be spectacular and unique in the world. He will be able to take mist that will stay inside His sculptures. He will manifest His realization and consummate skills. No holy person in the world will be able to duplicate such works. If anyone will be able to duplicate such works without differing from the original at all, my words have deceived the world. Vimalakirti Wan Ko is Buddha Vajradhara. He will cause the Buddhas to bestow nectar that many will see descend from the sky. He is of utmost benefit to sentient beings. He has the compassion and wisdom of an ancient Buddha. I hereby reveal these words to prove the veracity of my formal pronouncement.” H.H. Mahavairocana Dharma King Zunsheng also gave His Holiness the dharma name Yangwo Yizhi Dharma Prince, which means Dharma Prince supreme leader of Buddhism with the highest wisdom.
H.H. Mahavairocana Zunsheng then said, “During the Dharma-Ending Age in the earthly world, there will be many evil teachers and demons who will claim to be genuine holy persons. In order to distinguish the genuine from the false, I now make a strict formal pronouncement that will serve as the testing standard. The pronouncement is as follows: There will not be a fourth incarnation of Dorje Chang Buddha in this earthly realm within the next 5,000 years. The third Dorje Chang Buddha will be the only such holy being, and there will not be an incarnation of another Dorje Chang Buddha in this earthly realm for 5,000 years. Based on causes and conditions that accord with the dharma, I now lay out tests to determine whether a person is that true Buddha if he claims to be the true incarnation of that Buddha. He must successfully invoke the Buddhas to bestow nectar. He must be able to perform the Golden Vase Selection of Karmic Affinity and predict the results of that ceremony beforehand. He must be able to eliminate karmic obstructions in a clearly visible manner. He must be able to replicate wondrous multicolored sculptures. He must be able to take mist, place it inside a hollowed out sculpted boulder, and have the mist stay there. If a person is able to do all five of these things without exception, then he is the true fourth Dorje Chang Buddha. No matter how great a holy terton may be, no matter if a person leaves concave imprints on rocks with his hands or feet, no matter how vast a person’s manifold supernatural powers may be, if he cannot do these five holy things, then he certainly is not the true incarnation of Dorje Chang Buddha. An ancient Buddha who descends to this earthly realm will have no difficulty meeting these five tests. I leave these five observable tests to guard against those in the future who make false claims.”
The Dharma Prince was acting as the holy and venerable Vimalakirti did when Vimalakirti received different teachings and knowledge, took on the appearance of an ordinary person, and learned things tirelessly. No one knows why the Dharma Prince did so. At the age of sixteen, the Dharma Prince wrote a work on the dharma called A Monk Expounds the Absolute Truth to a Layperson. After that writing was buried, great master Hui Yong unearthed it. Renqing Luozhu and Suolang Danbu respectfully offered that writing to H.H. Mahavairocana Zunsheng Yeshe Norbu to evaluate. H.H. Zunsheng Yeshe Norbu personally promulgated that dharma called A Monk Expounds the Absolute Truth to a Layperson in front of the four types of Buddhist disciples. After He finished promulgating that dharma, He personally led the four types of Buddhist disciples in kneeling down and facing that writing on the dharma. He then made the following formal pronouncement: “An ancient Buddha has arrived in the east.” He recognized that the Dharma Prince was H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, conferred upon His Holiness the title Yangwo Wan Ko Yeshe Norbu, and said that His Holiness is the Holiest Tathagata. He also called that dharma A Monk Expounds the Absolute Truth to a Layperson Sutra.
There are certain time periods relating to H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III ’s propagating the dharma and benefiting living beings. Before the age of eleven was the period during which His Holiness was engaged in the Tripitaka of exoteric Buddhism. From the age of eleven to fifteen was the period during which His Holiness was engaged in the esoteric dharma of the Kagyu school. During that time, he was called Dusum Khenpa Lion’s Roar Dharma Prince. After the age of fifteen was the period during which His Holiness was engaged in the esoteric teachings of the Geluk school. His Holiness was at that time called the reincarnation of Master Tsongkhapa. That was also the time period during which His Holiness flawlessly propagated the tantric scriptures of the Sakya, Nyingma, and all of the other schools. At this time, His Holiness was called the embodiment of the body, speech, and mind of Guru Padmasambhava.
Because my Buddha Master is an ancient Buddha who has come to this world again, His Holiness upholds the principles of “making no distinction between exoteric and esoteric Buddhism or among all of the sects and schools; teaching living beings according to their particular circumstances; and pervasively propagating the teachings of the Buddhas to all.” Thus, His Holiness is the Buddha Vajradhara Great Dharma King of the “Buddha Sect” who pervasively saves all living beings. My Buddha Master has repeatedly admonished everyone with the following counsel: “There is no differentiation among the various schools and sects in my mind. There is only Buddhism. However, for a dharma king, rinpoche, or acharya of any school or sect, as long as he or she does not commit violations in the 128 evil and erroneous views, abides by the teachings of the Buddha, attains liberation, and then saves other living beings based on their particular karmic conditions, he or she is worthy of praise.” Of course, The Supreme and Unsurpassable Mahamudra of Liberation is the greatest dharma among supreme great dharmas for cultivators to receive and practice. That is why my Buddha Master is the only one in this world possessing the realization of opening up the Niwan Daoguo for all kinds people to enable them to attain heavenly and holy states.
[Please respectfully read in detail the treasure book of H. H. Dorje Chang Buddha III to acquire great wisdom, accomplishment and liberation. If you have the affinity to receive and practice the dharma of The Supreme and Unsurpassable Mahamudra of Liberation, you will be certain to get great wisdom and attain great accomplishment and liberation.]
Peace LiLy 