H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III ‘s traditional Chinese painting, “Old Tree,” stands as a masterpiece adorned with vibrant red plum blossoms. The depiction of a weathered old plum tree in a sea of ink unfolds a narrative of transformations—dense, light, dry, wet—unveiling the radiant beauty of its once youthful charm. The myriad red plum blossoms, seemingly engaged in a dance, cluster and clamor upon the branches, invoking an immediate sense of lively springtime. This painting is a testament to the profound artistic prowess encapsulated in H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III ‘s work.
Embedded within the Chinese cultural tradition is the notion of the common origin of calligraphy and painting. H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III seamlessly incorporates calligraphic brushstrokes into painting, preserving the interconnected signs of brush and ink on the canvas. This approach transforms the expressive painting into a visual symphony, akin to calligraphy music. The technique of “flying white” in calligraphy, where white spaces delicately appear amidst smooth brushstrokes, takes on a purposeful role in painting. Originating as an imprint left by the speed of the brush, “flying white” becomes a unique brush and ink technique through profound aesthetic reflections.
“Flying white” becomes a vivid recorder of authentic emotions during the writing process. The brush swiftly glides over the paper, conveying passion and resonating with the engraving sensation found in seal carving. The depiction of the main trunk of the old plum tree in “Old Tree” superbly utilizes this technique. The contrast between subdued flying white and rich ink creates a musical and vivid rhythm of black, white, and gray within the composition.
The essence of a good painting lies in its “subtlety,” an intricate quality that goes beyond precision or meticulousness. For H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III , the process of painting is akin to flowing clouds and water—an expression of natural improvisation and delicate arrangement. As the ancients wisely said, “Add a little to Pan An’s beauty, and it becomes more; subtract a little, and it becomes less.” The subtle artistry in “Old Tree” showcases the artist’s profound insight into the delicate nuances of expression.
The quality of a work is deeply intertwined with the artist’s inherent cultivation, reaching a high realm based on the principle of “selflessness.” This term, often misunderstood, refers to losing oneself entirely in the painting process—where both mind and hand are forgotten. Artworks created in this state possess a power that transcends philosophical texts, offering a simple and clear depiction of inherent reality.
In real life, each person has unique perceptions and emotions, yet lacking rationality makes it challenging to transform these into creativity. True masters of art, exemplified by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III , possess not only a sublime inner world and rationality but also the ability to keenly grasp fleeting sensations and transform them into robust vitality. Their ability to endure solitude, maintain genuine nobility, and leave traces of distinctive qualities results in the creation of genuinely original works of art. The great art masters, with a spiritual realm surpassing ordinary individuals, exhibit an otherworldly and extraordinary noble quality that defines their artistic genius. In “Old Tree,” we witness not just a painting but a symphony of artistry, capturing the essence of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III ‘s profound mastery.
(Translated from a report in Chinese published in Las Vegas Chinese Newspaper on June 3, 2014)
(Reported from Los Angeles) In the spring of 2014, just before the grand opening of the H.H. H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural And Art Museum, an extraordinarily sacred event unfolded in the presence of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III. During His Holiness’s travels on a tour, a flock of birds appeared within approximately 100 meters of His Holiness the Buddha. In a stunning display of nature’s marvel, the birds gracefully descended onto a water surface, creating a mesmerizing group dance. This ethereal performance was accompanied by the atmospheric phenomenon of a sudden storm.
This extraordinary event took place on May 19, 2014, while H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III was visiting Mexico in the company of more than 20 individuals. The clock had just passed five in the afternoon. Returning from an excursion to an ancient Maya site near the city of Merida, the Mexican tour guide guided them to the Temozon Resort Hotel, an opulent establishment converted from a manor farm.
Seated at a table near the window inside a coffee shop were H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III and two distinguished virtuous ones. Through the window, about 100 meters (328 feet) away, lay a rectangular-shaped swimming pool. At this moment, H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III gathered His entourage and delivered an announcement:
“Throughout this journey, you have witnessed many awe-inspiring scenes. However, today, you are about to witness a breathtaking dance unlike anything you have seen before. Shortly, a multitude of birds will grace this swimming pool to perform a ‘Dragonfly Stepping on Water’ dance. These birds will gracefully descend, shuttle above the water’s surface, tread upon it, and ascend into the sky. This dance is also known as the ‘Spiritual Birds Stepping on Water.’ Moreover, their performance will persist even after the rain commences.”
At that time, people within the entourage all looked outside the window but did not see even one bird. However, since H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III had called them over and told them that a world-astounding miracle would occur soon, they were confident that it would definitely happen. Still some of them raised a doubt, “Can a bird fly up after touching the water? Wouldn’t it plunge into the water and drown?”
H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III then asked them, “Do you see birds now?” The disciples replied, “No, there isn’t a bird, not even a bird’s shadow.” H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III said, “If you suspect that they will not come, or they will plunge into the water and drown, just wait and see what happens. Anyway, I will just tell you this. If there are no birds dancing above the swimming pool, the dharma I expounded would be evil views. If they do show up, that means I am truly Dorje Chang Buddha III, representing all Buddhas in the ten directions and, on the other hand, those dharma kings, rinpoches, venerable ones, and great dharma masters who slandered me are either evil masters or swindlers. The fact will be shown when the birds come. You just wait and see. Moreover, in a sudden moment, celestial deities will cast a heavy rainstorm within one or two seconds, providing an accompanying performance to the dance. However, the birds will not be driven away or stop due to the rain. You will soon see, whether Dorje Chang Buddha III expounded true Buddha-dharma or evil dharma and whether those who engaged in slandering and defamation are demonic persons, evil masters, and swindlers or not.”
After only one minute or so, many birds did fly to the sky above the swimming pool. There were no birds at any other place. They were circling and flipping very fast above the swimming pool. Some began dashing downward. Shortly afterwards, just as H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III had predicted a few minutes ago, the birds dived down from the sky and had their feet stepping on the water, and then flew upward back to the sky. The dance repeated this way over and over again.
Then, H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III said, “It is going rain heavily right away.” Everyone started to count silently, one, two, …… Exactly as told, in less than two seconds, a heavy downpour suddenly started. The bird did not stop or leave, and continued to dance within the rainstorm. Every detail of the prediction made ahead of time by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III came true completely, proving that H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III’s Buddha-dharma is the true dharma and that those who slandered His Holiness the Buddha are all demonic persons, evil masters, and swindlers.
To provide witnesses to this absolutely true holy scene, the disciples who accompanied His Holiness the Buddha on the trip and saw with their own eyes this extremely magnificent holy feat recorded in writing the situation at the time and signed their names. They also took oaths against severe consequences to guarantee what they wrote are ironclad facts. If what they wrote were an untrue fabricated story rather than their own experience, they not only would not become accomplished in this lifetime but also would devolve into the hell of uninterrupted suffering to undergo all kinds of sufferings. On the other hand, if what they stated is true, they will be certain to attain liberation and accomplishment in the current lifetime. They wished that all living beings can learn the true Buddha-dharma from H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III.
The whole process at that time was recorded by video. This live video recording included many world-astounding scenes one after another that proved His Holiness the Buddha’s realization of enlightenment and will be dedicated as a present to the H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural and Art Museum. The video will be shown to the public at the museum’s grand opening ceremony and will be distributed to people of all walks.
The written testimony was signed by thirteen witnesses of the entourage who took oaths against severe consequences, including Xuan Hui, Wenli, Baima Dorje Cuomu, Hengsheng, Long Zhi, Kuan, Jiawei Dianba, Cideji, Cirong Zhuoma, Gesang Quzeng, Renqing Quezan, Dunzhu, and Tongchang. Their testimony stated:
“This event seems to be plain simple. However, after careful thinking, we can realize that:”
“First, this place is quite far off. Except the Mexican tour guide, none of us on the tour has been here. Neither did we know the location, the setting, or anything about this place. We did not know this place had birds either.
Secondly, when H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III made the announcement, we all clearly saw that there was not even one bird above the swimming pool and the higher sky above it.
Thirdly, birds are of course not human. They have no way to speak to us or communicate with us in other ways. We human are not able to give notice or direction to the birds either to let them tread and dance on the water surface, not to say that they were more than 100 meters (328 feet) away from us.”
“With all these facts, then how was H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III able to inform all of us two or three minutes ahead of time that many birds would fly to the sky above the swimming pool and state definitively that the birds would perform a world-astounding miraculous dance? What was even more astounding is announcing that celestial deities would produce a heavy downpour within 1-2 seconds and the birds would not be driven away by the rain and would continue to dance. Exactly as forecasted, such a world-astounding scene did take place, proving the truthfulness of the announcement made by His Holiness the Buddha. This is not an issue of prediction. Rather, it represents the ultimate truth and Buddha-dharma that is millions of times more powerful than a prediction!!!! This fact fully proved that the world of Buddhas is completely different from living beings’ world, that the truth of Buddha-dharma that the Buddha expounded to living beings is absolutely true without anything untrue, and that living beings must cultivate in accord with the Buddha’s teaching, in order to become accomplished and truly enter the world of Buddha-dharma. This is because His Holiness the Buddha is the sole highest extremely great holy virtuous one. We simply are unable to know all truths and facts that H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III is aware of. Therefore, we cultivate in accord with the His Holiness Buddha’s teaching. Only then can we turn the state of an ordinary being into the state of a Buddha and enter the world of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas!”
“You should not believe literally H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III’s description of this event. His Holiness the Buddha said that He is a humble one, He does not have the ability of telling the birds to present a dance on top of the water or telling celestial deities to rain a heavy downpour as an accompanying performance to the dance, this holy occurrence was a coincidence due to the karmic conditions of all who were present, and He does not have such a power of realization. Rather, you should realize that these statements reflected the supreme virtue of selflessness of a true Buddha. You should think carefully about this situation. Which dharma king, rinpoche, dharma master, or holy one can announce ahead of time when there is no bird seen that many birds will come to perform a dance of treading water? Moreover, within only three minutes, many birds did show up and dance on the water, making many splashes of water.”
“Maybe we can just say that this is not amazing. However, such a statement of announcing the arrival of many birds to perform a dance of treading water cannot be baselessly made by a person with the status of a Buddha when a live video recording was on and there was no bird around. How would the situation end if there weren’t many birds showing up afterwards? Moreover, the announcement said that celestial deities were to pour a heavy rain in two seconds. Two seconds after the sentence ended, a heavy downpour started immediately, manifesting an accompanying performance to the birds’ dance. This is something far more than being amazing. It is truly a holy feat made by His Holiness the Buddha. No other holy one can do so, because he does not have such supreme realization of Buddha-dharma. We know that no eminent monk, dharma king, or rinpoche in history has ever done so. In real life, we do not see any great dharma king, great rinpoche, or great dharma master making such accomplishment either! Looking at the last several thousand years, only H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III has the true dharma of the Tathagata to manifest such inspiration and virtuous realization. In another instance, H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III reversed an aged appearance to that of a youth after only a little over ten minutes. Can any great patriarch master, great dharma king, great rinpoche, or great dharma master make an accomplishment that bears a remote resemblance to this?”c
“Now we know that a true Buddha came to our world. Why don’t you seize this opportunity to follow the Buddha to cultivate and learn the dharma to end the cycle of birth and death? Also, it is certain that you will die soon and you will not be able to escape the death!!! That time will soon come, when your breath will stop and you will die. Your soul, which is the spiritual consciousness you have now, will not have anything that you once possessed in the human world. You will be penniless regardless of how much money you once had. At that time, there will be no food, no house, and nothing. While you are at the stage of bardo, you can see your family members but they can’t hear you talking to them. You will only have loneness, extreme suffering, hunger, and fear. There is no hotel on your way to the afterworld. You don’t know where you can stay for the night. This is not to scare you. That day will come very soon! This is an obvious fact. You are certain to experience the loneness, fear, and the coming together of all kinds of sufferings that never end. The only way to avoid this consequence is to learn the true dharma of the Tathagata right now. Only by doing so can you become accomplished and break away from the fear of death. You should look for the Buddha immediately to learn the dharma. There will be no second chance if you waste this lifetime!!! Then only loneness and suffering with no possibility of being rescued are waiting for your soul.”
In the midst of the First World War, a remarkable event occurred that transcended the boundaries of conflict and highlighted the true essence of Christmas – the Christmas Truce of 1914. As we celebrate this joyous season, it’s essential to reflect on the lessons of compassion, love, and humanity that emerged during that extraordinary moment in history.
“It will be over by Christmas.” This false assurance echoed among the 60 million soldiers sent to the battlefront, exposing the grim reality that war does not adhere to predetermined timelines. The soldiers found themselves entrenched along the Western Front, living in harsh conditions, mere meters away from their adversaries.
Despite the hostility of war, the spirit of Christmas prevailed on that fateful Christmas Eve. German troops, unwrapping gifts from home and lighting lanterns along their trenches, initiated a surprising turn of events. Carol singing broke out, and soon British and French troops joined in, bridging the gap between enemies.
As Christmas morning dawned, a temporary ceasefire was proposed, and soldiers from both sides cautiously ventured into no man’s land. Greetings, well wishes, and even gifts were exchanged. Spontaneous football matches broke out, demonstrating a shared humanity that transcended the barriers of war.
The Truce of 1914 was not an isolated incident; it was a series of truces involving over 100,000 soldiers across the British-held area of the Western Front. The scale of these impromptu ceasefires is a testament to the universal longing for peace, even in the midst of one of the deadliest conflicts in history. Spontaneous football matches broke out, transforming caps and jackets into makeshift goal posts. Corporal John Ferguson vividly described the scene: “What a sight – little groups of Germans and British extending almost the length of our front! Out of the darkness we could hear laughter and see lighted matches, a German lighting a Scotchman’s cigarette and vice versa, exchanging cigarettes and souvenirs.”
Reflecting on the teachings of Jesus, who implored his disciples to love their neighbors, it becomes apparent that the message transcends religious boundaries. In times of war fueled by religious differences, it is crucial to remember that faith should serve as a source of inspiration for compassion, love, and kindness, irrespective of one’s beliefs.
Similarly, the teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha echo through time, emphasizing the compatibility and mutual respect among religions. The contemporary Buddha, H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, extends this ethos by acknowledging figures like Jesus Christ as great holy beings. In his Dharma discourses, His Holiness emphasizes the imperative for all Buddhist disciples: “When encountering living beings, regardless of whether they are handicapped, deficient, sick, or healthy, treat them all equally as family members…” His Holiness further calls for global cooperation, transcending religious, cultural, and national boundaries. He underscores the importance of treating each other as dear relatives, emphasizing a collective effort necessary for the peace and auspiciousness of the world.
As we celebrate Christmas today, let us draw inspiration from the Christmas Truce of 1914. In a world where conflicts persist, particularly in places like Gaza, may we strive for peace, understanding, and empathy. Let the spirit of Christmas be a beacon of hope, guiding us towards a future where love triumphs over hatred, and unity prevails over division.
The Christmas Truce of 1914 serves as a timeless reminder that even in the darkest of times, the light of humanity can shine through. As we gather with loved ones during this festive season, may we carry the spirit of Christmas within our hearts and work towards a world where the message of love and peace prevails.
Yun Sculpture, a groundbreaking form of art devised by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III for the global audience, stands unmatched in the annals of history. Since its inception, the world has borne witness to an artistic phenomenon that defies replication. Observers, captivated by the works of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, often find themselves in awe, expressing sentiments from the depths of their hearts: “This is a treasure bestowed upon the world by a divine force,” “Sacred artifacts from the Buddha’s Pure Land,” “Captivating the soul with its unparalleled beauty,” and “Since the advent of Yun Sculpture, humanity’s jewelry pales in comparison, like stars around the bright moon—dim and lackluster.” Indeed, when contrasted with the most finely carved jade and opulent stone sculptures, the latter suddenly lose their luster and grandeur, revealing an insurmountable gap.
Yun Sculpture boasts several distinctive characteristics:
Firstly, these sculptures exude a multidimensional sense of space, intricately crafted with unparalleled complexity, displaying endless variations.
Secondly, Yun Sculptures burst forth in rich and vibrant colors, presenting scenes so dreamlike and fantastical that they remain unseen in this world.
Thirdly, many Yun Sculptures possess a sacred and mysterious quality that transcends ordinary comprehension, exemplified by pieces such as “Mysterious Boulder with Mist.” In these sculptures, a mysterious mist gracefully floats among intricately carved, seemingly shifting, and intriguingly interconnected hanging rock formations. Why are such pieces referred to as sculptures containing mysterious mist? The answer lies in the enigmatic and beautiful scenes depicted within these sculptures—a dance of auspicious mist swirling amid hanging rock formations, creating an ethereal ambiance.
Mysterious Boulder with Mist
These miraculous works can be seen and touched. However, they cannot be created by anyone who is not a being of the highest holiness.
Precious Place
Stepping into this precious place, Surveying the treasures hanging on all four walls, Pure white, inky green, brownish-yellow… A multitude of vibrant colors. Is this the magic of nature? No, it’s the crystallization of wisdom!
The Grand Entrance of Elegance
The grand entrance, adorned with intricate golden lace, Built upon a foundation of gemstones, Various wonders on display, Gleaming with dazzling radiance. The densely woven textures and folds, Alive with vivid details, Eagerly beckon one to step inside, And behold the magical scenes within the hall.
Dawn
This Yun Sculpture masterpiece interprets the natural landscape of dawn with a strong sense of color contrast and intricate contours. The magic of this artwork lies in the seamless transition between night and day, appearing remarkably natural without any artificiality. It is not just a unique Yun Sculpture piece but also a transmission of positive energy.
The shift from darkness to light is not merely a natural phenomenon but also signifies the awakening and transformation of human thought and consciousness. By sincerely experiencing this Yun Sculpture piece inspired by the dawn, you will feel the powerful energy embedded within.
This Yun Sculpture piece resembles an ancient tree hollow, exuding a sense of mystery. Looking into the cave from its entrance, it appears bottomless, much like the human heart—profound and unfathomable.
Therefore, the term “tree hollow” now symbolizes the secrets hidden deep within. Psychologists propose that people need to learn to confide, to release their emotions. This artwork provides us with a window to express the unspeakable depths of our hearts, offering a means to alleviate stress through sharing.
A Rock of Horizontal Charm
Endless changes of spirit and feelings unfold Mysterious motions envelop wonders untold Only in heaven is such a presence found No handiwork of artisan earthly bound
The sculpture A Rock of Horizontal Charm is a masterpiece of Yun Sculpture, embodying the spirit of an art surpassing the beauty of nature, created by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III for humankind. Derived from an art form created by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III that possesses beauty beyond nature’s, it has attained a realm –never before seen in human history – of artistry transcending nature, originating an art form in this world that is irreplicable by any craftsman or high technology. This amazing beautiful sculpture is currently displayed in H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha IIICultural And Art Museum.
Coral from Heaven
This Yun Sculpture piece exudes a mysterious yet astonishing feeling. The meticulous handling of the subtle details precisely embodies the essence of this artwork. Dubbing it “Coral Descending from Heaven” aptly confirms its precious and distinctive qualities. It’s challenging to fathom how the artist applied colors, especially in certain tiny areas where ordinary individuals would be unable to do so. It is precisely because of such a mysterious, astonishing, and unique piece that it deserves this name.
Unusual Music from Beyond Heaven
Art of the Little Autumn
Hanging Withered Vines Embrace Ancient Stones
Loveliness
Deep Feeling: Vistas Beyond the Tranquil Valley
Discover a captivating array of Yun Sculptures at the permanent exhibition housed at The International Art Museum of America, located in downtown San Francisco. Additionally, immerse yourself in the extraordinary collection at the H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha IIICultural And Art Museum in West Covina, a treasure nestled in the vibrant cultural landscape of the greater Los Angeles area.
The teachings transmitted by Lord Kashyapa Buddha or possibly even more ancient Buddhas are beyond our reach today. Although the discourses of Shakyamuni Buddha are considered supremely perfect, the Tripitaka that we study now can be said to not entirely capture the original intent of the Buddha’s words. This is because during the Buddha’s lifetime, his teachings were not promptly recorded. All the scriptures were compiled after the Buddha’s parinirvana by a gathering of five hundred arhats. Despite the arhats having transcended the cycle of birth and death and possessing vast supernatural abilities, their own levels of spiritual realization were limited, and there existed a significant gap between their understanding and the Buddha’s complete enlightenment. As a result, there were certain aspects of the Buddha’s teachings that they might not have fully comprehended, leading to misunderstandings or omissions in the interpretation of certain doctrines during the compilation process.
Over the past 2,000 years, Buddhist teachings have encountered distortions and alterations due to mistranslation and misinterpretation of Buddha-dharma by Buddhist patriarchs, eminent monastics, and Buddhist scholars.
During this Age of Dharma Degeneration, H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III descended to the earthly realm, exhibiting perfect mastery of Exoteric and Esoteric Buddhism, along with unparalleled expertise in the Five Vidyas. The Five Vidyas are what Buddhas and Bodhisattvas do to help living beings. Recognizing the distortions and errors that had infiltrated Buddhist teachings, H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III corrected the mistakes present in the Buddhist teachings, restoring the authenticity, power, and purity of Buddha’s wisdom and views.
H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III has bequeathed over two thousand audio recordings of imparted Dharmas and published invaluable Buddhist books, including “A Monk Expounds the Absolute Truth to a Layperson,” “Commentary on the Prajnaparamita Heart Sutra,” “The Essence of Buddha Dharma,” “Correcting the Treatises of Patriarch Bodhidharma,” “What Is Cultivation?,” “The Supreme and Unsurpassable Mahamudra of Liberation,” and “Learning From Buddha.” H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III imparted the subtleties of Dharmas in colloquial language so that people living in the 21st century could easily comprehend. They serve as supreme treasures and indispensable resources for Buddhist disciples seeking to escape the sufferings of this world and attain enlightenment.
The dharma discourses encompasses the essence of the Tripitaka and the esoteric Buddhist scriptures. It covers Buddhist precepts, views, cultivation, and Dharma practices. It covers the whole spectrum of Buddhism regardless of whether it is Hinayana, Mahayana, or Vajrayana.
The audio recordings of dharma discourses given by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III begin with the strict progressive levels of cultivation. These discourses contain extremely incisive teachings that concisely incorporate the twelve divisions of the Tripitaka and the ten divisions of the esoteric scriptures without losing the true meaning of the Tripitaka and esoteric scriptures. The topics covered are extremely broad. They vary from analyses of the dharma regarding the Trikaya (Three Bodies) and the Four Wisdoms of a Buddha to teachings on the vajra dharma of the Supreme Division. There are explanations of the true realization and manifestation of the Great Perfection of Ultimate Wisdom. H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III also possesses the Xian Liang Buddha Wisdom Great Perfection Dharma whereby the disciple experiences and sees the rainbow-body dharma realm state the very day that dharma is transmitted. Nothing is lacking either in theory or practice. Those recordings truly show that H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III has complete proficiency in exoteric and esoteric Buddhism and perfect mastery of the Five Vidyas. They also manifest His Holiness’s supreme enlightenment, wonderful prajna wisdom, and holy state of the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, all which are part of the inner realization vidya. All of the recorded discourses are directed at Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, Arhats, and all practitioners.
The H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III’s teachings were directly spoken and recorded without any external contamination. Moreover, with the superiority of modern technology, the Buddha’s complete teachings can resound globally in real-time, a phenomenon that was not possible during the Shakyamuni Buddha’s time. This is not a blessing originally destined for beings in the degenerate age, but rather, it is an augmentation of the merit and resources of sentient beings through the immeasurable merit of the original primordial Buddha and the compassionate power of Bodhi. It allows the Buddha’s teachings to echo in this dark and heavily burdened era. How rare and precious it is!
I have followed this Buddha – H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, before I even knew He was a Buddha, because I wanted to learn the Buddha-dharma of Shakyamuni Buddha; the dharma that can enlighten and enable one to attain liberation from samsara. I am grateful to all the other teachers who helped me on this path, but I have come to know that H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III is truly a holy being and has the Buddha-dharma that can enable us to become Bodhisattvas and eventually Buddhas. I don’t see that anywhere else, but I do see a lot of erroneous and even evil practices that do not provide the power of the dharma that Shakyamuni Buddha brought to this world. I am alarmed at the secularization of Buddhism that has occurred in the West. It would seem that much of what is presented as Buddhism today is mainly a form of mindfulness that is a method to develop concentration, reduce stress, and achieve serenity. These are all worthy by-products and useful, but fall far short of the wonders and marvelous existence taught by Shakyamuni Buddha. People do not believe in the power of the Buddha-dharma, because they have never experienced or seen it.
I would like to share two true stories about my wonderful Buddha Master, H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III:
Some time ago my Buddha Master, asked me to practice the Modesty and Patience Dharma taught by Shakyamuni Buddha. The Buddha Master taught me how to respect persons lower than myself and told me to prostrate to those who were lower than me in their cultivation. To tell you the truth this bothered me. How could I possibly prostrate to them? The Buddha Master told me that in His past lives Shakyamuni Buddha prostrated to everyone. Shakyamuni Buddha practiced in this way to cut off self-attachment and practice forbearance.
One night at Hua Zang Si, a rinpoche attempted the Hidden Mani Stone Selection Dharma. After finding the first stone, he tried for a long time and was never able to locate the second stone that we had hidden. However, I was able at that time to see them. Because he found one of the mani stones, the temple arranged for me to prostrate to him at the end of the Dharma Assembly. To tell you the truth, my first reaction was resentment—I was almost even angry. Based on my own practice, how could I prostrate to this person who had not been able to successfully complete the test, when I could have easily done so? When this thought just appeared, I saw my Buddha Master teaching me forbearance again and I was very ashamed. However, several days passed, but I was still bothered by this, so I went to see my Buddha Master and asked: “How can I prostrate to a person who doesn’t have my vajra power in front of so many people?” My Buddha Master asked me, “Did you forget the true story I told you about Shakyamuni Buddha? Putting yourself as low as possible is the true way to true cultivation.” At the same time I saw that my Buddha Master had the best understanding in all of esoteric and exoteric Buddhism and had complete mastery of all five of the vidyas. My Buddha Master is a great Dharma King. At that time His identity as a Buddha had not yet been announced to the public, but we already knew that He was a great Dharma King. How could I not listen to His teachings?
I thought for some time, just which great Bodhisattva is my Buddha Master? Then I had a shocking experience that I have not shared publicly before. I actually saw my Dharma King Master drastically change His appearance in a very short period of time. Even though my Buddha Master had predicted that He would on such and such a day take on the negative karma of others and would not be available to meet the public, I was not prepared for what I saw. He appeared on the predicted day looking very ugly and old—His face was bloodied as if He had just been severely beaten. His eyes were swollen and half closed! There were many people standing around, but they seemed to be accepting of this condition. I had been thinking that, because of His accomplishments in both exoteric Buddhism and esoteric Buddhism and the Five Vidyas, my Master must be a Buddha, but how could this be true when He looks so old and decrepit? I could barely stand looking at my beloved Dharma King Master when He was like this. Remember, at that time we did not know that our Dharma King Master was a Buddha. In less than an hour, I looked again, and my Buddha Master had changed to a beautiful young man. I was shocked. Oh, my God. How could this be? My Master is a Buddha! What I was thinking is true! He is not just a Bodhisattva, but a Buddha. I looked around, but no one else was shocked or showing any reaction at all to what had just happened. I looked again at my Master and He just smiled. He put His finger to His mouth and quietly said “shhh” and I realized that no one else had seen this transformation, but I knew this fact about the Buddha.
These photos were true records of the holy miracle Buddha Dharma, they are now displayed at Hua Zang Si, at San Francisco
When Shakyamuni Buddha first propagated the true teachings of Buddhism, there were already numerous religions in India and its neighboring countries. Shakyamuni Buddha, with his unparalleled wisdom, tolerance, and compassion, inspired many followers of other religions to convert to Buddhism. Venerable Upali was one such devotee who, deeply moved by the Buddha’s wisdom, became an exemplary disciple of Shakyamuni Buddha.
Upāli, residing in North Magadha, was a wealthy and talented young man and a major supporter of the Jains under the leadership of Mahāvīra. The Jain ascetics lived a very austere life, even going without clothes, a lifestyle admired by many.
In the spring of that year, the Buddha visited Upāli’s mango grove in Nālandā, where he was received by the ascetic Upavāṇa, a faithful follower of Mahāvīra. In the conversation with Upavāṇa, the Buddha learned that Jain followers never mentioned mental defilements, focusing only on actions constituting offenses.
In a dialogue with the Buddha, Upavāṇa revealed that Jain practitioners discussed three types of offenses: bodily, verbal, and mental. When asked which was considered the gravest, Upavāṇa asserted that bodily offenses held the highest severity.
The Buddha countered this view, asserting that, according to the path of awakening, unwholesome thoughts are the most severe since they are more fundamental than actions. This principle, though stated by the Buddha, had to be reiterated thrice before Upavāṇa accepted it.
Following this, Upavāṇa left and conveyed the Buddha’s words to Mahāvīra, who found the Buddha’s perspective erroneous, emphasizing the seriousness of bodily actions.
During this discussion, several disciples, including Upāli, were present. Upāli, having brought a friend from Vājī, expressed his desire to visit the Buddha, intending to challenge the Buddha’s stance.
Although Upavāṇa endorsed Upāli’s initiative, Mahāvīra was hesitant, fearing Upāli might be swayed. Nevertheless, Upāli was determined to meet the Buddha.
Upon meeting the Buddha, Upāli was captivated by his articulate discourse. The Buddha used seven analogies to elucidate why unwholesome thoughts are fundamentally more significant than unwholesome actions.
Aware of the Jains’ strict observance of the non-killing precept, the Buddha asked Upāli if accidentally killing insects constituted an offense. Upāli, echoing Mahāvīra’s teaching, responded that unintentional killing is not an offense.
The Buddha then questioned Upāli’s certainty in the Jain stance. Upāli confidently replied, referring to Mahāvīra’s teachings. The Buddha, smiling, acknowledged that his initial analogy should have sufficed.
Impressed by the Buddha’s wisdom, Upāli expressed his admiration and sought to become a disciple. The Buddha, advising him to contemplate thoroughly, accepted Upāli only after his sincere conviction.
Upon Upāli’s decision to join the Buddha’s order, the Buddha emphasized that while Upāli had shifted allegiance, he should continue supporting the Jains.
As more people in Magadha and Kosala embraced the path of enlightenment, monks visiting Śrāvastī reported this joyful news to the Buddha. In response, the Buddha reminded them that the crucial factor was the diligent practice of the monks, not merely the growth or decline in the number of followers. He encouraged an equanimous outlook towards success and failure, happiness and unhappiness.
The teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha echo through time, emphasizing the compatibility and mutual respect of religions. The contemporary Buddha, H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III , extends this ethos by praising figures like Jesus Christ as great holy beings. In Dharma discourses, His Holiness calls for global cooperation, transcending religious, cultural, and national boundaries. He underscores the importance of treating each other as dear relatives, a collective effort necessary for the peace and auspiciousness of the world.
When you first set your eyes upon these supernatural abstract color paintings, the vibrant and radiant hues of red, yellow, blue, white, and black burst forth, dancing like the tumultuous waves of a river stretching for thousands of miles. Captured in the delicate tips of the brush, their brilliance transcends the ordinary, possessing a gentleness yet resolute quality. The diverse and exquisite colors mutually nourish and elevate each other, creating a masterpiece that can only be described as ingenious, reaching a realm where colors take on an ethereal quality. The experience is beyond description—elegant and comforting.
These impressionist paintings have attained a level of mastery where even a small fragment isolated from the complete artwork stands as an exquisite impressionist painting on its own. They convey a dreamy, illusory state, and each tiny section has the potential to be enlarged, creating a distinct and aesthetically pleasing painting.
Gazing Upon a World Beyond the Stars
This piece has a sci-fi movie special effects vibe, it doesn’t look like a scene that exists on Earth; rather, it resembles the appearance of an extraterrestrial planet observed through high-tech instruments. The entire artwork is filled with a mysterious atmosphere, offering limitless imagination and excitement.
Marvelous Spectacle of a Mystical and Illusory Island
This artwork is vibrant and three-dimensional. When appreciated from a diagonal perspective, the pattern in the upper right corner resembles a series of color-changing snakes, coiling in the air, creating a dazzling and visually delightful experience. The pattern in the lower left corner appears like slowly flowing mud, transparent and sparkling under the sunlight. The dividing line in the middle adds a fantastical element, resembling a peculiar light that seems as though it could disappear in the next second, defying verbal description.
The fantastical imagery of this artwork brings a sense of joy and, simultaneously, fills one with fantasies and aspirations for the future. It is a lively and dynamic masterpiece that exudes a peculiar power.
Long Green Wall
Magnificent and grand, that was my first impression upon seeing this artwork. Despite its modest size, this piece is brimming with the profound culture and history of China’s five thousand years. Resembling the Great Wall, this artwork is a marvel, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of the H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III from an artistic perspective.
Elegant Purity of Beautiful Stone
The highlight of this artwork lies in H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III‘s skillful combination of intricate colors, avoiding any hint of vulgarity and instead exuding a sense of pure elegance and nobility. The arrangement of patterns and textures in the artwork, seemingly casual brushstrokes, actually reflects H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III‘s ingenious conceptualization and profound artistic foundation, presenting a harmonious order within apparent chaos.
The Nobility of Petrified Red Trees
At first glance, this artwork appears to be an oil painting. Upon closer observation, it evokes astonishment. It is not merely a flat painting but more akin to a lifelike redwood fossil.
Every texture is distinctly visible, and every detail is vividly realistic. H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, with the stroke of a brush, captures the original form of the redwood in the guise of a fossil, rendering this piece of art even more mysterious and noble.
This artwork employs strong color contrasts, making bright colors even more vibrant and dark colors even deeper. The enchanting purple patterns, at times intensified and at times subdued, infuse the composition with a sense of magic. It is as if a colossal dragon is about to break free from the shackles of darkness, re-emerging into a brilliant radiance.
Splash-Color Embroidery of Moutains and Rivers
This is a splash-ink painting that combines elements of oil painting style. The innovative approach and exquisite brushwork truly captivate the viewer. Looking at this piece, one can almost hear the echoes in the mountains, see the surging river waves, smell the freshness of nature, taste the sweetness of mountain springs, and feel the harmony between humans and nature.
Boundless Land as Beautiful as Colorful Embroidery
The artwork, dominated by blue tones, incorporates elements of Western and abstract painting. At first glance, it resembles a vast ocean spanning the globe. It delivers a visual impact and a spiritual resonance. Take a moment to immerse yourself in this majestic and awe-inspiring scenery.
These intoxicatingly beautiful Supernatural Abstract Color Paintings form a perfect world constructed by colors. Devoid of concrete worldly forms, it is a realm purely defined by color—shaping, expressing, and embodying itself through hues. Color is both its form and its essence, permeating with a captivating aura. These colors, guided by the hand of the H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, seamlessly converge into a marvelously enchanting spectrum. The atmosphere is lively, the scenes blossom like flowers, bold and fierce as the roaring sea, yet upon closer inspection, they reveal nuanced expressions, refined in the minute details. In discussing the extraordinary skill of the H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III in Western painting, it’s almost an understatement to compare it to the Buddha.
You can discover a selection of the exceptionally charming paintings in the permanent exhibition at The International Art Museum of America, situated in downtown San Francisco.
It is often said that the essence of a high-quality painting lies in its incorporation of the calligraphic brushstrokes, the commanding presence reminiscent of engraved stone seals, a tonal quality derived from the artist’s mastery of literature, a stylistic expression emanating from the artist’s virtue, and a captivating allure that springs from the artist’s state of realization—this, indeed, is the true spirit of the painting.
In the International Art Museum of America, several paintings, executed with only a minimal number of strokes, possess the robust appeal akin to stone seal engravings. These artworks convey the artistic conception of returning to original purity and simplicity. With a liberated hand and mind, the artist applies their most refined skills, devoid of any lingering attachments, creating with minimal yet natural brushstrokes.
Za Chai Shi Gu (Brushwork Resembling Smashed Jade)
There is a phrase used in commenting upon Chinese paintings and calligraphy that related to smashed jade. This painting exemplifies that charming style of smashed jade.
The pine tree, rendered with just a few simple strokes, emanates a pervasive sense of strength across the entire painting. The exquisite and lively portrayal of the little squirrel employs a truly remarkable and mysterious technique, combining simplicity, innocent charm, a natural appearance, and authenticity into a harmonious whole.
Loquat
H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III painted ‘Loquat’ in 2013. This painting achieves the skill of cherishing ink like gold in its conception, with no wasted or faulty strokes. With just a few strokes, it is high and lofty, vibrant and lively, containing an elegant and comforting sense of ease, as if the brush strokes were divinely inspired.
At the autumn auction of the New York Zhenguan International Auction Company on September 12, 2015, this painting ‘Loquat’ was auctioned for a staggering 10.2 million U.S. dollars.
Yi Chen Bu Ran (Immaculate)
With only a small number of strokes, a comforting and natural appeal appears vividly on paper. The style is neither overly cautious nor affected. A scholarly tone and an air of stone seals are revealed in the brushwork. This is a work of art with an attractiveness that stems from mature skills. The title “Immaculate” means that this painting is free of any trace of the mundane.
Cat of Unique Charm
In this painting, the cat is portrayed with a vibrant yet natural presence, achieved through the dynamic and captivating use of scattered ink. The entire artwork, painted with only a few brushstrokes, exudes the style of stone seals and an air of scholarly refinement. Both the form and spirit of the scene are skillfully captured. This work truly exemplifies masterful ink usage in a restrained manner.
One of the one hundred limited release copies of this small-scale, painting “Cat of Unique Charm” sold at auction for US$253,000, which is the highest per square foot selling price of any duplicate painting in the world. The prices of sold duplicate paintings by the most famous first-rate masters of art in the world cannot match the prices of sold duplicate paintings by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III.
Si Yu Sheng Hui (Resplendent Like Jade)
With just a few simple strokes, the entire painting is remarkably infused with a robust jade-like charm and an auspicious aura. Both the plantain tree and fruits exhibit a lack of mediocrity and were painted without the slightest mental attachment in the artist’s mind. They appear natural, elegant, and enchanting. This sentiment is succinctly captured in the accompanying short poem: “Unfurl the painting scroll, and the particularly fragrant scent of ink is released, permeating the viewer’s mind and intoxicating them to the core. Only a minimal number of strokes were applied. This exemplifies the regal art of using ink as sparingly as gold.”
H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, the artist behind these magnificent paintings, has crafted a pure and enchanting spiritual realm with his incredibly succinct brush and ink technique. Upon viewing, it evokes a sense of ethereality, akin to the moon reflected in water, and a freshness that pierces the heart, reminiscent of the sound produced when a piano key is pressed. This unique artistic essence, bridging the real and the virtual, transcends the ordinary, providing a natural and enlightening experience that often transports individuals into a realm of wonder.
Buddhists worldwide converged on October 29th to observe the Buddha-Stipulated Day of Releasing Lives, an admirable day dedicated to compassion and liberation. Originating in 2009, this tradition finds its roots in the teachings of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, who, after completing a monumental Buddhist activity, led His disciples in releasing captive lives and declared this day as a time to extend compassion to all beings. In 2023, the H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Culture and Art Museum and the World Buddhism Association Headquarters commemorated this occasion with life-releasing events in Marina Del Ray, California, and World’s Fair Marina, Flushing, New York.
The practice of releasing captive lives holds deep significance for Buddhists. H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III once imparted in the Dharma of Cultivation, “All living beings in the six realms of reincarnation within the three spheres of the universe have been since beginningless time my fathers and mothers in the revolving cycle of reincarnation.” Furthermore, “The Brahma’s Net Sutra – The Book of Bodhisattva Precepts” explicitly teaches the importance of compassionately engaging in the practice of releasing captive animals into the wild and freeing living beings from suffering.
On October 28th, the Monastery of Hua Zang Si Temple in San Francisco, along with Buddhist disciples, organized a fish release event at the San Rafael Port, located at 110 Loch Lomond.
Hua Zang Si Abbess Ruzun Ruohui emphasized, “Our acts of compassion are not confined to specific days or places. Guided by the teachings of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III and Shakyamuni Buddha, we believe in intervening whenever and wherever beings face dire fear or calamity, offering them safety and liberation from suffering. As the saying puts it, ‘We hold dear the continuity of their lives and cannot bear to witness their untimely end.’ Our driving force is compassion and empathy, with a desire to bestow happiness and freedom upon all sentient beings, relieving them from the burdens of suffering.”
Buddhist disciples in Taiwan organized a fish release event at the ocean beach.
Buddhist disciples at PinDong Taiwan released crickets.
In 2023, nations worldwide continuously struggle with prolonged regional conflicts, ongoing wars, economic turmoil, and the devastating impacts of climate change, resulting in a profound loss of lives and widespread suffering. From storms, flooding, earthquake, to wildfires, 2023 has already been a record catastrophic year for weather and climate disasters globally. On this occasion of the Buddha-Stipulated Day of Releasing Lives, individual Buddhists, temples, and religious organizations from around the world have come together in unity to conduct life-releasing activities. Their shared aspiration is to dedicate all merits to the well-being of living beings. May adversity be vanquished, and may all living beings find prosperity and wisdom, leading to lives filled with goodness. May nations thrive and may peace reign supreme throughout the world.
