This Saturday, November 4, 2023, the 22nd day of the ninth lunar month in the Tibetan calendar, we celebrate Lhabab Duchen, a day deeply steeped in the legend of Gautama Buddha’s “descent to earth from Heaven.” It’s a day where the celestial and earthly realms converge, and the ripples of our actions resonate far and wide.
In the tapestry of Tibetan Buddhist tradition, this auspicious day holds a special place. It is said that any acts of positive or negative karma performed on Lhabab Duchen are multiplied “ten million times.” This is a profound reminder of the potency of our intentions and actions on this sacred occasion. It’s an opportune moment to embrace virtuous deeds, to give generously from the heart, to immerse ourselves in the harmonious vibrations of pujas, and to engage in the transformative power of sadhanas.
One of the simplest and most symbolic acts that connect us with this divine energy is the offering of light, be it a candle or the gentle glow of a butter lamp. Lighting the way for our own inner illumination, we pay homage to the light that graced our world when Gautama Buddha, the Enlightened One, descended from the celestial realms to guide us towards enlightenment.
By lighting a candle on this sacred day, we symbolically kindle the light of wisdom within our own hearts. This act is a testament to our commitment to seek truth, to illuminate the path of self-discovery, and to spread the radiance of compassion and understanding in our lives.
On Lhabab Duchen, we step into a realm where the boundaries between the mundane and the divine blur, where our actions ripple through the universe with heightened intensity. It is a time of reflection, gratitude, and spiritual reawakening. As we light that candle or butter lamp, let us do so with reverence and intention, nurturing the flicker of enlightenment within us.
Join me in embracing this sacred day with an open heart and a candle in hand, as we pay homage to the light of the Buddha and illuminate our own path towards wisdom and compassion. Let this simple act be a reminder of our dedication to the journey of self-discovery and the quest for inner illumination.
May the light of Lhabab Duchen guide you on your spiritual path and infuse your life with the radiance of enlightenment.
In reverence and shared illumination,
Lama Chimey
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Reverend Lama Chimey 