Dear Sangha,
Yarney, or the annual summer retreat, has
begun at Thubten Shedrup Jangchupling, Ayang Rinpoche’s monastery in
Bylakuppe, India. The retreat for all the monks and lamas will continue
through September 14th.
This
is a tradition that goes back to the time of Buddha. Its original
purpose was to allow monks to gather and shelter from the monsoon rains
and to take time to reflect, pray, meditate, and listen to dharma
teachings.
The
first day of the Yarney began with Sojong, a practice for repairing
broken vows and replenishing positive virtues, in which many local lay
practitioners participate.
During Yarney, a special wooden monastic bell, used
since the time of Buddha, is rung to call for lunch and morning
prayers. The monks take breakfast and lunch in the temple with the
traditional monks’ begging bowl. Each evening, everyone recites
aspiration prayers (monlam). Read more and support Yarney here.
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