The supreme lama of Kalmykia telo tulku rinpoche. Telo tulku. Doomed to be a stranger in Russia. What knowledge was revealed to you with ease
http://youtu.be/yWo8PmvW63c
Dear Telo Tulku Rinpoche! Recently you were solemnly honored in Kalmykia on the occasion of your appointment as the honorary representative of H. S. Dalai Lama in Russia and Mongolia. What are the main goals you set in your work, and what needs to be done in order for the development of Buddhism in Russia to correspond to the tasks and ideas of H. S. Dalai Lama?
Telo Rinpoche: For me, the appointment of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to the post of Honorary Representative in Russia, Mongolia and the CIS countries is a great honor and great responsibility. It came as a complete surprise to me. But for me, as a follower and disciple of His Holiness, who fully shares his principles, it is a great joy to serve such a wonderful person who, although he calls himself a simple Buddhist monk, does incredibly much to promote the ideas of love, compassion, forgiveness, and tolerance. In addition, His Holiness is a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, which also makes the position of his honorary representative especially responsible.
Russia is a huge country. Thus, the scope of my activity should cover vast territories, which, of course, will not be easy. Russia is one of the major players in the global political arena, as well as in the economy and other areas. But the activities of His Holiness's Representative in Russia have nothing to do with politics. Our task is to help His Holiness fulfill his three main obligations, the first of which is to contribute to the spread of universal human values. The second is to promote harmonious relations between religions. And third, to be the spokesman for the aspirations of the Tibetan people, to contribute to the cause of Tibet. These are the main commitments that His Holiness the Dalai Lama strives to fulfill in his life. And as a representative of the Dalai Lama, I see my task in serving as a conduit for the ideas of His Holiness and helping to promote universal human values, interreligious harmony, and help the cause of Tibet.
Unlike other Western countries, Russia and Tibet are linked by strong historical ties, which are more than one century old. This is largely due to the fact that more than 400 years ago the peoples of Buryatia, Kalmykia and Tuva joined Russia. I would call the relations between Russia and Tibet outstanding and unique, they are deeply rooted in history. Today it is important to renew and strengthen these ties, which were practically lost in the 20th century, when the communists first came to power in Russia, and then the communist China occupied Tibet, which as a result became part of a country with totalitarian rule. In the nineties, a transition to a democratic state took place in Russia, and thanks to this, it became possible to restore historical ties between the Russian and Tibetan peoples. I think these connections can be useful and serve the good of both parties. Of course, today in Russia we live in an open and free society, but in the past we have suffered great losses in terms of culture, traditions and language. And we really need the help of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan organizations he created in India to assist in the revival, reconstruction and strengthening of our rich Buddhist heritage. At the same time, the Tibetan people continue to suffer under the occupation of China. And I believe that the Russian people should express solidarity with the Tibetans, help find ways to resolve the Tibetan issue. It is important to emphasize here that His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile, called the Central Tibetan Administration, do not seek Tibet's separation or independence from China. They adhere to a policy known as the Middle Way Approach, which recognizes that Tibet's membership in China is beneficial for both the Chinese and Tibetan peoples. But at the same time, Tibetans want to be able to preserve their national identity, culture, language and traditions. I think in this situation a solution can be found that will be mutually beneficial and acceptable to both parties. I also believe that finding such a solution is important not only for Tibet and China, but also for the rest of the world. In Asia, many countries depend on natural resources Tibet, from rivers originating in the glaciers of Tibet. This conflict, this mutual misunderstanding must be eliminated as soon as possible, because, as I said, both Tibet and China are closely connected with the rest of the world.
This year, the 80th anniversary of H. S. Dalai Lama is celebrated all over the world. How would you advise us to celebrate this anniversary to please His Holiness, our spiritual guide? How should the anniversary be celebrated in three Buddhist regions of Russia?
Telo Rinpoche: Indeed, His Holiness the Dalai Lama will turn 80 this year. For a man of his age, who travels tirelessly to bring people ideas of the world, to talk about secular ethics, he is in excellent physical shape, despite the fact that his daily schedule is incomparably stressful than the schedule of any of us. And yet he is in excellent health. Doctors say he has the heart of a young man. These are all very encouraging signs. We wish His Holiness good health to stay with us as long as possible.
Several years ago, a foreign journalist asked His Holiness what would be the best present for his birthday? And His Holiness replied that the best gift would be if all people showed warmth. It's so easy! And this goes very well with the principles that His Holiness always promotes: to show love, show compassion. This is exactly what we lack in our daily life. Not only in relationships with friends and family, but also in relationships with other people. So the best birthday present that we can give to His Holiness - not only residents of Buryatia, Kalmykia and Tuva, but all residents of Russia - is to try to show warmth.
We live in a difficult time, we are faced with a variety of difficulties: rising unemployment, people losing their jobs, rising inflation. All these external factors affect our inner state, our inner world. In such conditions, it is very easy to lose our usual inner balance. In times like these, we should all unite and help each other as much as we can. Not to be selfish, but to show self-sacrifice, altruism. Try to unite into a single community, linked by friendly relations, for the benefit not only of the local community, but for the benefit of the whole country. This is the best gift that we can give not only to His Holiness, but also to ourselves. Because every person undoubtedly deserves love, compassion from others and at the same time must share with them his love, compassion and forgiveness. This is the only way we can promote peace on Earth, peace in society, good relations with neighbors, friends and relatives. I am sure this will be the best gift not only for His Holiness, but for the whole of humanity as a whole.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the khurul "Golden Abode of Buddha Shakyamuni", built on the site blessed by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. What important events dedicated to this anniversary can Russian Buddhists take part in?
Telo Rinpoche: This year we will celebrate 10 years since the day we built a new temple, "The Golden Abode of Buddha Shakyamuni." It's amazing how quickly time flew by! Looking back over the past ten years, we see that we have achieved a lot, achieved many of our goals. It's safe to say that this has been a successful decade. In honor of this holiday, we will be holding many different events. It will be not only religious festivals, but also a variety of events related to culture and education. We are still only at the very beginning of preparation. But we would like the celebration to take place in an atmosphere of mutual understanding and unity. And, of course, we are happy to invite everyone to come to Kalmykia. I firmly believe that the closer we get to know each other, the more we travel, get to know each other's culture, lifestyle, the easier it will be for us to overcome obstacles such as doubts, mutual misunderstanding. I think that it is important for all residents of Russia - to come to Kalmykia and see how we live, find out what we think, feel the hospitality and cordiality of the Kalmyk people, visit our Buddhist temple - one of the most beautiful Buddhist temples in Russia and the largest in Europe. We are always glad to have guests, but this year we especially invite everyone to visit numerous musical and cultural events. You will be able to watch the religious ceremony "Cham", it will be performed by a group of monks who will specially come at our invitation from India. We also organize educational programs for schoolchildren. We are also planning to hold a scientific conference for Buddhists, Indologists, Tibetologists. They will gather in Kalmykia to discuss further cooperation in the scientific field. You can, of course, find out more about what events will take place on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the Khurul on our website, where the information will be constantly updated.
At the international conference in Elista, you again gather people from different regions... Some people think that establishing cooperation between Buddhist regions is a very difficult task. Do you think such cooperation is possible, and can it be fruitful?
Telo Rinpoche: As I said before, I believe that relationships between people are very important. We always invite everyone to come to Kalmykia. I travel a lot myself. For me, this is more than tourist trips or business trips. Wherever I go, I always try to learn something new about history, culture, oh different events related to this place. This helps to understand how small our world is, how much we have in common, despite the external differences.
If someone says that cooperation is impossible, then it is wrong. Before making such categorical statements, you still need to try and do something. Therefore, I believe that it is important for us to travel more, meet more often in order to get to know each other better.
If we return to the issue of interreligious harmony, to which His Holiness the Dalai Lama pays such close attention, then if representatives of all religious traditions live separately, avoiding meeting and communicating with each other, avoiding cooperation, then how can we live in peace and consent? After all, there will always be a misunderstanding between us, deep down we will doubt. And doubts lead to suspicion, which in turn has many negative consequences. So, the more we meet, the better we will understand each other. And then, even if we fail to reach full agreement on some issues, we will be able to come to a compromise that will be acceptable to all interested parties. This means that we will be able to maintain peaceful relations, study together, conduct scientific research, and work. We can do so much together! Therefore, it is so important that we stretch out our hands to each other and learn to cooperate, together to solve the complex problems that we face in the modern world.
The Supreme Lama of the Republic of Kalmykia, the official representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Russia, the recognized reincarnation of Tilopa - the great Buddhist saint, the founder of the Kagyu lineage. And all this is one and the same person, Ombadykov Erdni Basan. He talked about how karmic connections are formed, about the difficulties of choice and fatal mistakes that happen in life, about the education of mental flexibility, rap music, vegetarianism and much more. The conversation turned out to be very interesting!
About how the karmic connection was formed between Telo Tulku Rinpoche, Kalmyks and New York, what place Buddhism gives to the phenomenon of "fate", as well as divinations of the future, the upbringing of a new generation of Tulku, mental flexibility and Soviet mentality.
- Tell me, please, do you encounter obstacles, difficulties, disappointments in your life? Or just successes and achievements?
- You used the word "fate". Who or what makes destiny destiny? From a Buddhist point of view, man is the creator of his own destiny. Why? Because in Buddhism, we believe in karma. And karma is the law of cause and effect, this is the understanding that the present depends on the past, the future on the present (and even our plans for the future are born from the situation in the present!). And also in Buddhism we believe in rebirth. And therefore, I believe that fate as such and all events are created by our own actions. This is karma. And my present life is no exception. Yes, it looks very unusual from the outside, but, believe me, I'm not the only one, there are a huge number of unusual human beings in the world now! And by the way, unusual fates are found not only in the Buddhist world, but also in the non-Buddhist world! In the world of science, technology, economy ... Yes, there are so many beautiful unusual extraordinary creatures in the world!
- My way ... Yes, this is a very interesting question. And to clarify why it seems interesting to me, and to answer it, you need to tell the background - in the sense, to devote you to some details of my previous life. After learning the story of my previous life, everyone will certainly see the relationship with this life.
- Tell me, please!
- My predecessor, Telo Tulku Rinpoche Dilova Khutukhta XI Zhamsranzhav, whose reincarnation I am recognized, was born in Mongolia at the end of the 19th century and foresaw the revolution. When communism came to Mongolia, it was very active - not only socially and politically, but also spiritually. Unfortunately, in the early thirties he had to leave Mongolia and go into exile: first to Inner Mongolia, from there to China, from China to India, from India to Tibet. He later returned from Tibet to India, and from there in 1950 he emigrated to the United States. A large group of Kalmyks who fled from the USSR soon arrived there. A Kalmyk community was founded in New Jersey. My predecessor settled there. He lived among the Kalmyks until the end of his days. A few years later, in the same community of Kalmyk Buddhists in New Jersey, I was born - the next reincarnation of Telo Tulku.
- History clearly shows how the karmic connection was created between Telo Rinpoche, Kalmyks and New Jersey.
- Yes, this is how karma works, and this is how karmic connections are created.
- And how did this karmic connection manifest itself in a new reincarnation - in your life?
- In this present life, I was born a Kalmyk, I went to India when I was 7 years old to become a monk there. Many tall lamas considered me amazing child and, as far as I know, it was assumed that I was someone's reincarnation.
- Did the lamas tell you about any amazing signs or events associated with your childhood?
- I talked about different unusual things, did unusual things that I don't remember now (laughs)... And then one day the abbot of the Drepung Gomang monastery, where I studied, shared his observations about "this child from America" in a conversation with the Dalai Lama.
“Perhaps this is someone's reincarnation,” the abbot of the monastery suggested.
“Yes,” said the Dalai Lama, “it is possible. Give me a list of Mongolian lamas who have gone to last years.
Of course, the list was immediately compiled and handed over to His Holiness. A few months later, the answer came: they recognized the reincarnation of Dilov-hutukhta in me.
- How does the procedure for recognizing reincarnation take place? Is this research exclusively mystical, or can a new reincarnation be discovered by some "scientific" methods?
- We, in Buddhism, have a system of divination and divination. To achieve the ability to divination, you need to receive initiation, and then hold a special retreat. It is believed that during the retreat this special ability and will open.
There are various methods of divination, divination, fortune-telling. I do not know which ones His Holiness the Dalai Lama uses and how exactly he recognizes reincarnations, however, the Dalai Lama is a supernatural being and we Buddhists believe that he is a manifestation of the Buddha of Compassion in the form of a human.
So, in general terms, the process of divination is as follows: three special bones, on which numbers are inscribed, are thrown under the recitation of prayers and mantras. Each number corresponds to a certain passage of the text. That is, there is a special text for these purposes - for predictions, fortune-telling, divination. But as I already said, in order to achieve the ability to divination, everyone must first of all receive initiation and blessings, do a special retreat, without all this nothing will work.
- How old were you when you were recognized as the reincarnation of Dilov-hutukhta?
- I ended up in the monastery in 1980 - in April, I think. And already in September I was recognized as the reincarnation of Dilov-hutukhta, Telo Rinpoche. I just turned 7 years old.
- How did you feel when it happened?
- At that time, like any child, I was only interested in games.
- How did you like this new game that you are the reincarnation of a great lama?
- Yes, there really was something like an "inauguration ceremony." But when you are seven years old you don't think about such formalities - only about games.
- Did you feel the connection with the texts of Tilopa and other past incarnations - in comparison with the texts of other great teachers?
- I must admit that I was a quick learner, quickly assimilated knowledge. As you know, the main skill required to study Tibetan Buddhism is the Tibetan language. It is with him that you need to start. So, I very quickly spoke Tibetan. The ability to memorize texts, which is also very important in our tradition, also emerged very quickly.
- Do children who have been recognized as being reborn receive special training?
- Yes, we have always been treated with increased attention in the monastery. And yes, the training - compared to others - was slightly different.
- How are the younger generation of Tulku brought up?
“A tulku should not misbehave,” “A tulku should study well,” “A tulku should hold a spoon like this, sit upright” ... How many formalities there are in Tulku's life, you can't even imagine! (laughs)
- Is it difficult to be a Tulku?
- In general, some formalities are not devoid of meaning, but it is absolutely certain that many of them are not useful for health. Well, in my case ... yes, perhaps it was more difficult for me than for others, because at that time I was already a person of broad views.
- Do you think it's about American upbringing? Still, there is a huge difference between Indian and American culture ...
- Maybe American origin played a role, or maybe my amazing destiny (laughs)... But seriously, I turned seven when I left America for India. What can you know at the age of seven about such feelings as freedom of expression, freedom of consciousness, freedom of thought? What in general can you know about freedom? In childhood, we do not understand what all these words mean and why adults are so worried about them. Plus, I didn't return to the States until 1993, so ... if there is an impact of American culture, it is very small.
- So, all the same - fate, karma?
- Now I am 45 years old. I look back at my life and see that everything in it is not accidental, everything made sense. My predecessor, Dilova-hutukhtu, who left Mongolia and went into exile, arrived in America and met immigrants from Kalmykia here. And so, in this life I was born a Kalmyk. Yes, this is my destiny - to be a Kalmyk, to be involved in the revival and development of Buddhism in Kalmykia. This is how it works: karma, karmic relationships, karmic traces ... It's true, who in 1980 could have known that in 1991 the Soviet Union would collapse? And that after this Buddhism will revive in Kalmykia? .. Who would have known? So what is this? Fate.
- You are right ... If so, it turns out that there are not so many choices and difficult decisions in life, right?
- Yes, not so much, but each person as they grow up asks the question “why me?”. I definitely wondered this question. This is a huge responsibility. The pupils of Buddhist monasteries have so many rules, so many obligations and prohibitions. The only (and understandable) response is to investigate the reasons for these prohibitions. In other words, constantly asking the question "why?" For example, why all normal people can eat what they want and how they want, and I have to follow numerous fasts, diets and etiquette? We are all people, you are a human being and I am a human being, but you can afford to hold a cup of tea the way you want, and I have to hold it in a special way, according to all the rules. Why?
(Rinpoche demonstrates an erect posture and holds a cup of tea with three fingers.)
Why can't I just be myself? Why should I follow these strict guidelines? What for?
How many rules! And I asked all the time about their meaning and meaning.
- Indeed, why does a Buddhist lama need so many rules?
- Because there is a certain image of a Buddhist lama who behaves in a certain way. And from the point of view of karma, I myself have created this image.
- That is, it is important not only to feel like a high lama inside, but also to broadcast a certain image - for people?
- I believe that already in the world there are enough superficial lamas, artificial lamas, insincere lamas ... Well, I will be myself. I made such a decision, for me it is the only correct one. Is this a good choice or not? Future will tell. And I also know that even the mistakes we all sometimes make will ultimately help us become better.
- Sometimes you have to choose between bad and very bad, between a mistake and another mistake. And often we do not even have a complete vision of how everything in the world is happening - and we are forced to move blindly! And one day later, the future will really show the results of all these choices and actions of ours ... The knowledge that for many incarnations you were a high lama - does this knowledge help in making difficult decisions?
- History is of course important, history can teach us a lot, but I do not attach to the past of particular importance... But I give it to the future. We cannot change the past, we cannot give it a definite shape, and in general we cannot do anything with it. The only thing is that we can learn about the past, study history, and then, based on this information, formalize the future. The future is more important to me than the past.
As human beings, we all go through all kinds of trials. There are times when we ask who I am and why I am. And I also went through this - through confusion, struggle, responsibility.
"Why is this happening to me?" - I asked this question very often. “Because you are Tulku, because you are Rinpoche” was the only answer to all my questions for a long time. It was a simple answer. But I kept asking him anyway. Why? What should I do? And the wise teachers answered me that as a Tulku I am responsible for all sentient beings.
- What a huge responsibility! How to live with her?
“Yes, the responsibility for all sentient beings is enormous. I became the Shadzhin Lama of Kalmykia in 1992. I was 21 years old and, in truth, was not ready to fulfill the duties of the supreme lama of such a large republic. I didn't even have time to finish my studies - I was still studying, I was a student. But I have already been elected. It was one of the turning points in my life when I had to make difficult choices. Do I have to resign from the position of Shajin Lama to complete my studies? But while I finish my studies so much can happen - both in the state and, of course, with these people, for whom I am already responsible ...
- Yeah ... How did you reason then?
- No one can guarantee that development and revival will go on the right path if I now resign from the post. What, still take responsibility and sacrifice your education? And I decided to do just that: I sacrificed my education so as not to waste time and opportunities.
- You immediately understood what you did right choice?
- Actually, after I made this decision, the most hard time in my life. I turned 21, I had no experience in public administration - none. I did not know how to give interviews to journalists correctly, to speak convincingly, did not know how to be a leader and how to lead people ... At the same time, I had anxiety for the development, for the revival of Buddhism, its traditions and culture. And, importantly, I found myself in a country with a Soviet mentality - I had to constantly explain, prove, make an impression.
- How would you describe the Soviet mentality that you encountered in Kalmykia in the nineties?
- I would compare it to a rock.
- Why?
- Because the Soviet mentality, like the rock, has absolutely no flexibility. And flexibility is very important - both for nature and for consciousness.
- What is the flexibility of consciousness?
- We must develop the ability to perceive a wide variety of information - different opinions and assumptions, formalize, draw conclusions. The Soviet mentality did not know how to do all this. Well, for example, they could, pointing to the plate, claim that it was a cup. And here's what is surprising: everyone was ready to agree that a plate is a cup - no question, no doubt.
- Yes, let's drink from the plates!
- Let's! Let's also do a demo on the identity of cups and plates. (laughs)! Just imagine that someone from another country comes and wonders what everyone is talking about: he sees a plate as a plate and understands it just like that - and not at all as a cup. And he will, of course, ask why everyone around them calls the plate a cup. And in response to him to explain that "the chief said so, period."
That was the mentality - full of fear and doubt, and also completely deprived of freedom of expression, freedom of religious confession, freedom of thought.
And so I, a 21-year-old dropout monk, had to deal with the communist party and the Soviet mentality represented by its most diverse carriers - party secretaries, Komsomol leaders, representatives of various organizations ...
This is why it is so important to constantly deal with circumstances and develop the flexibility of the mind.
- You easily learned to build relationships with different people - did you have to communicate with communist leaders, with ordinary employees and with believing Buddhists?
- Yes. And this was, perhaps, the most difficult thing that I have done in my life. But I grew up in a monastery, and there are not very many people in the monastery, and most importantly, they are all united by a common goal. When I arrived in Drepung Gomang, there were about 130 monks, when I became the Shadjin Lama of Kalmykia, the monastic community grew to about 1300 people. But it’s not about quantity. It turned out that behind the fence of the monastery, in the world, there is no such atmosphere of calmness to which I was accustomed; and there are no teachers either - there is no one to ask for advice; and there are no comrades nearby - there is no one with whom to drink a cup of tea, talk, relax. I found myself all alone.
- How did you manage?
- At that time I was terribly worried about doubts that what if the divination in my case was wrong. Because I clearly did not cope with the responsibility that was entrusted to me.
I am human and I have made many mistakes.
One of them is that I have taken off my monastic vows. The reasons for this mistake of mine are ignorance, arrogance, confusion.
But there is a good side to everything, a positive side - even this!
- What was the positive side of this mistake?
- I began to understand Buddhism better after leaving the monastery than I was before.
- Why?
- Because when you live in a monastery, you are under the protection of the system: emotional support, compassion, kindness, love - this is what surrounds you in the monastery. What about ordinary people, lay people? Not at all!
- But as?
- Now I know this side of life too. When you are a layman, you have no experience, no understanding - only the questions "what to do", "how to live" (and more often - "how to survive"). And there is still a lot of suffering.
A story about two meetings with the Dalai Lama and other amazing adventures of a Buddhist monk in the world, which ends with reflections on where on the planet it is better to incarnate high lamas, given the position of religion, science and philosophy in the modern world.
- Yes, it is impossible not to face suffering.- Yes, lay people constantly face suffering - one might say, they are on the front line! And only in this way, from our own experience, one can understand the words of Buddha: “Suffering is the nature of being. And there is a reason for suffering ... ”. And now I understand it! Why? Because I feel this reason with all my being ...
So, perhaps, my fate also decreed so that I felt this pain, experienced it with all my being.
- Tilopa, your predecessor, he also left the monastery at one time ... and became a wandering ascetic.
- Yes. But that was a very long time ago, many centuries ago.
- And here, too, you can find a karmic connection?
- You can find it, but before you go in search of it, it is important to see the difference - lifestyle, circumstances, conditions, opportunities, era ... If we take into account this difference, it becomes clear that there are not so many grounds for comparison. In my opinion, much more benefit can be obtained from comprehending the specific state of affairs in the modern world than from studying the circumstances of a thousand years ago.
- There are anthropological studies according to which people living in the Old World (in Europe, Asia, Russia) are more likely to discuss the events of the past, and those who live in the New World, in America, are more likely to discuss plans for the future. Do you agree with this kind of observation? What is more interesting for you to talk about - the past or the future?
- Discussion of plans for the future is a clear sign of development, rapid development... Outwardly, in the United States and in the West in general, development is proceeding very quickly. But there is no need to talk about similar rates in internal development - unfortunately. We live in a world where competition reigns, where everyone competes with everyone. How many contests are there now! Who will build the tallest building in the world? The palm of leadership passes from one state to another, from continent to continent. Longest bridge, fastest Railway, the deepest tunnel ... Yes, all these things are very important, but in the pursuit of their achievement, the very possibility of internal development is lost. How to make people more compassionate and loving? This is a really important question. It is much easier to achieve by 2019 to improve, for example, this dictaphone of yours - to make it even thinner, add functions ... But no one says that by 2019 we will improve this girl, make her more compassionate and loving.
- I hope that such a miracle will happen.
- I also believe in evolution. The evolutionary cycle resembles the wheel of samsara, which is why it is sometimes called the "wheel of life." What am I doing? For whom and why do I live this way and not another? What am I really striving for? What is my spiritual heart longing for? I hope that we humans will be able to look at ourselves honestly and honestly answer these questions.
- Buddhism in recent times is gaining popularity in the West - in the USA, Europe, Russia ... How can you comment on this?
- Yes, I agree, Buddhism is really gaining popularity in the West. But not popular Buddhist religion in a strict sense, but rather Buddhist philosophy and Buddhist science of consciousness. Buddhist science is attracting more and more attention from Western academics. So the Dalai Lama says (and I completely agree with him) that Buddhism now has three main branches: religion, philosophy and the science of consciousness.
- What do you think about Western Buddhists? How do you rate them? I mean the so-called "new Buddhists", "non-traditional Buddhists."
- Neuroscientists - those who interact with Buddhist scientists - are not particularly deeply interested in the religious practices of Buddhism. And this is understandable. They are interested in the science of consciousness. And of course, one cannot ignore those Western scholars who study Buddhist philosophy.
- Is there a connection between philosophy and science in Buddhism?
- Yes there is. These are close areas, but you need to understand that they are not the same thing.
- And Buddhism is still a religion, right?
- Yes, of course, Buddhism is still a religion. But for most Western Buddhists, Buddhism is more of a philosophy or science. And even those who are more religious still combine ritual activities with Buddhist philosophy and science. So, in my opinion, it is not Buddhism as a religion that is popular, but Buddhism as a philosophy and science.
- Have you met serious Buddhists who grew up in Western culture? ..
- Yes, there are serious Buddhists in the West, but there are few of them.
- But in Russia?
- In Russia, there are three traditional Buddhist republics - Buryatia, Tuva, Kalmykia. And besides these three Buddhist republics there are those whom we call "new Buddhists", "non-traditional Buddhists." Do you think they are interested in Buddhism as a religion? I do not know. This is a big question. But I can definitely say that they are interested in Buddhist philosophy, the science of consciousness and Buddhist methods of meditation. Yes, I am 100% sure of that.
- How do you think the number of people who profess Buddhism in the West will increase, decrease or remain the same?
- Do you mean in Russia or in the world in general?
- Well, first of all in Russia - because now we are in Russia, but of course in the whole, in the world.
- I think it will definitely increase. But again, this is not a competition! We can say that Buddhism avoids missionary activity - unlike, for example, Christianity. I am sure that if Buddhists were engaged in missionary activity, they would most likely “surpass” other religions. But we don't do that kind of thing. We give people a choice and if they are interested, if they ask questions, then we answer. Here's how now, for example: you ask - I explain. In general, I think that interest will continue to grow slowly but surely.
- But again - what for: philosophy, science or religion? After all, religion, philosophy and science are all different things.
- In my opinion, Buddhist philosophy and science in the European world has more chances than religion.
- Another question. It turns out that high rebirths occur only in the established religious culture. In your opinion, is it possible that in the foreseeable future high lamas will be embodied in European people?
- This is already happening. For example, a new reincarnation of Lama Yeshe happened in Spain, in a Spanish family. And then there was another lama who was born in Canada. Unfortunately, they both took off their monastic vows ...
- Why did they do that, what do you think?
- Perhaps it's just the difference in cultures.
- Do you think it is better for the Tulku to be reborn in the traditional Buddhist culture?
- Let's imagine that one hundred Tulku will incarnate in Europe. What will they do there? Will they remain monks? This is a big question. Perhaps it is better for us to be reborn in a "prepared culture." I don't think this should be the rule, but still ...
- But you somehow succeeded - you were born in the USA, in a family of emigrants from Kalmykia ...
- Yes ... And perhaps my special attitude to freedom - to freedom of speech, freedom of thought, freedom of mind - arose precisely because of this circumstance. Maybe this is what contributed to the fact that I also took off my monastic vows?
But actually, I believe the root cause is ignorance, confusion, overconfidence. I really didn't understand who I was and why I had to take on so many difficult responsibilities. I am now talking about the time when I announced my resignation and left Kalmykia in order to never return. I had no strength, I dropped my hands. It was in 1993.
- Was it that difficult? ..
- Yes, it was terribly difficult, too hard. And I became even more confused and embarrassed that I left monasticism, left the monastery, ceased to be a monk. What have I done? Of course, there was an internal struggle, but then it got even worse: I had to somehow survive in the world.
- How did you survive?
- Oh, I worked at a variety of jobs - I had to. No one will ever tell a layman in his life: you study, and I will take care of you. And in the monastery at 11 in the morning someone will definitely ring the bell, call for lunch, and then for dinner ... Everything is arranged there, everything is adjusted. But it turned out that in the world no one rings the bell to call for dinner - in the world you have to do everything yourself: cook, clean, pay the rent for the house, electricity bills, water bills ... The monastery takes care of all these things, and the monk can only learn and meditate.
Such different lives. And yet I did it. I then realized that the only thing left for me was to take responsibility for the mistake I made.
- Tell us about your worldly work activity, please.
- Oh, I had a lot of different jobs! I worked in a factory, in a printing company, in a construction company, I was a loader, I prepared cement ... And I was also a landscape designer - I decorated the garden space, laid out flower beds, lawns ... (laughs)... I also worked for a shipping company.
- The captain of the ship?
- Actually, the company was engaged in transportation medical equipment that was sent all over the world. I worked as a sorter and storekeeper. I sorted out orders - for example, 5 medicines to send to Paris, 3 - to Australia, 8 - to Madagascar. Well, I also helped to pack the goods.
- After the monastic life - such an experience ... It's amazing!
- Well, what to do? I had to work!
- How did you like it?
- Well, how to tell you. I liked some of the works, some did not like ...
- What is your favorite job?
- Well, I didn’t say that I had my favorite job! (laughs)... But each of them gave me wonderful experience and skills (including the skill of teaching new methods, the skill of handling a variety of mechanisms), and also new opportunities for educating and applying a creative mind. So in many ways, this whole journey made me who I am now.
- How long did this worldly life last?
- I was absent from Kalmykia from 1993 to 1995. It was a time of even more serious struggle than before - without a single lumen, without understanding what to do in the future and what to do now. I was in my early twenties. At this age, it was already too late to go to a regular school - and there was no way to return to the monastery either.
- Where did salvation come from?
- Once there was an opportunity to meet again with His Holiness the Dalai Lama. And I confessed to him that I was completely lost and asked me to explain how to live on.
- This was not your first meeting with His Holiness?
- I met the Dalai Lama in 1979 in New York when I was just a child. And, of course, this is a huge success. My parents came to the meeting with His Holiness to ask for advice, because their little son wants to become a monk, but it is difficult for them to understand - usually, children want to become police officers, firefighters, astronauts, presidents ... And ask for advice. Indeed, the desire to become a monk among American children is very rare, even if it is a child of immigrants from Kalmykia. And the Dalai Lama also understood this and advised them to send this "little boy" to India ...
- Then you still met with him?
- Yes, I was lucky to meet him in person many times while I was living in the monastery. But we did not see each other after I took off my monk's vows in 1993 - without consulting, without even warning anyone. It was a spontaneous decision. To tell the truth, then I was ashamed and I didn’t think of anything better than hiding. Imagine, the Dalai Lama comes, and I hide my face behind a gesture of greeting - behind "namaste" (laughs).
- How did you have a significant meeting this time?
- Actually, that meeting turned out to be strange. In 1995, the Dalai Lama gave teachings at the Drepung Gomang monastery, where I once studied, and now I missed the monastic life terribly and really wanted to return that time ... Therefore, as soon as I learned that His Holiness would give teachings, I understood that I will definitely go. And he drove off.
- In the status of a layman?
- Yes, in the status of a layman. For the first time in my life.
- Worried?
- Very much! I was worried about how they would look at me, how they would accept me, what they would say, what to ask about ... Excitement, fear, shame, embarrassment - a whole cauldron of all kinds of feelings and emotions! But I still went.
- And how many questions were asked?
- Yes very many. Basically they asked what I was thinking, why I did this, how I could have done such a stupid thing ...
- What did His Holiness ask you about? Did you meet him?
- Yes, he just arrived at Drepung Gomang Monastery. People greeted him by standing along the road along which he walked; and I stood with everyone.
And now he is coming closer and closer to the place where I am standing, and I did not think of anything better than to hide behind folded hands in prayer - with a gesture of greeting "namaste" (laughs)... But the Dalai Lama noticed me anyway and said so loudly that everyone around him heard: "Come to me!"
At that moment I wanted to sink into the ground, but I went and made an appointment with His Holiness. I have an appointment for tomorrow, four days.
- Were you able to sleep that night? Preparing for the meeting?
- Yes, I slept very well (laughs)... Actually, it turned out well that I had time to prepare for the meeting, think about how to behave, what I would say.
- What have you decided to say?
- I thought, thought, but I did not come up with anything special (laughs) and therefore decided - as usual - that I would just be myself as I am.
And now the time has come. I entered the room, made a prostration, and at that moment, when my head touched the ground, I still did not know where to start ... And I was silent.
His Holiness spoke first.
- I know you since you walked under the table, now you have grown up, have become quite an adult ... And I had high hopes for you.
I didn't know what to say in response, what to do in response ... Cry? Laugh? Remain silent? It was then that I first heard about “high hopes” and immediately realized that I had already failed to justify these “high hopes”. But no one even hinted at these "high hopes" before, and that's how it turns out ...
- And what happened then?
“This room remembers the day when you came to the monastery, we also talked here with you then,” His Holiness continued.
And I remembered that day very vividly.
“Yes, I remember,” I said.
- And this is what is happening to you now.
“I'm so sorry, I made a mistake,” I said, “because of my ignorance, because of my stupidity. And now I'm completely lost. Please guide me, advise, explain! What should I do and where should I go now, how should I live? I am completely lost.
His Holiness looked at me very sternly.
- Did I say something wrong? - I was frightened.
Then suddenly His Holiness laughed very loudly. And then he also suddenly fell silent.
- Yes, good, of course! The past is in the past, but we are now moving further, into the future, ”said the Dalai Lama. - Go back to Kalmykia, with which you have already established a deep connection. Of course, now you will not be able to work as efficiently as if you remained a monk, but you are still Tulku, this title has not disappeared anywhere.
“Okay,” I agreed.
- When did you return to Kalmykia?
- Already two months after this conversation. Of course, I was worried about how people would accept me, whether they would strictly judge what they would say in person, and what they would whisper about behind their backs. What if they stop trusting me because I am no longer a monk? What if they get kicked out?
- What really happened?
- My return was received very well, much better than I could have imagined in my wildest dreams: “It's so good that you came back,” people said, “without you we can't do anything.”
- How beautiful!
- Yes. And I decided that now I will work much more seriously. But I could not stand it for a long time.
- And you resigned again?
- Yes. It seems, in 1998. There was a lot of pressure, I could not cope, I did not have the necessary skills to work even with my own emotions - with anxiety, anxiety, self-doubt ... A lot of things prevented me from living! I dropped my hands again and ran away.
- For a long time?
- So, now ... When did Putin come to power?
- In 2000.
- Exactly! So I returned in 2000. I was gone for two or three years. That time Kirsan Nikolayevich Ilyumzhinov, the head of the Republic of Kalmykia, called and asked me to return. In fact, other people also called me and asked me to come back, but for some reason I didn't really listen to them. Probably didn’t believe that I was really needed so badly. But when the president called, I realized that it really means something ... Is it really true, people are in despair? And I returned to Kalmykia.
- How did you live at that time?
- Oh, during these three years again I changed very, very many different jobs (laughs).
Who suffers more - a monk or a layman, rap battles and the music group BEASTIE BOYS, cooking and home economics, and also about a world without borders, the will to power and the meaning of life.
- You know well how they live simple people: You are lucky to taste both the life of a monk and the life of a layman. What kind of life do you like best?- Yes, thanks to my life experience I understand how lay people live, I know firsthand their grief, their joys. For example, we have so many topics for discussion with you! But if you were just talking to a monk, he could of course give you comments on some important text, explain the cause and nature of suffering. But what if you asked him for advice about relationships, do you think he would understand the question? However, I would have understood, most likely. But does he really know this type of suffering? Definitely not. But two lay people understand each other better, because both have experience in relationships. So maybe this is my fate - to deeply understand the suffering of the Russian people.
And so I returned to Kalmykia in 2000. For the next few years, I worked very hard. I understood that a lot of time was lost (through my fault), but there was no less work - on the contrary. There is so much to be done!
And in 2004, the Dalai Lama visited Kalmykia and bestowed his blessing. This has become one of the most important events in the modern history of the republic, and we all have new hope and inspiration. Already in 2005, we built the "Golden Abode of Buddha Shakyamuni" - the largest Buddhist temple in Russia (and the most beautiful, too). By the way, all the work that I once did as a layman helped me a lot in this construction.
- Tell us more about this, please!
- For example, thanks to the fact that I had to work as a builder, I learned what drywall is and how to use this material. Perhaps, I was one of the few people in Kalmykia who had a really deep knowledge of drywall by the beginning of the construction of the temple of the "Golden Abode". The builders understood that these were "new technologies", but did not understand how to connect parts of the slabs, and I already knew, because I had this experience. I am by no means a professional, but at that time I knew an order of magnitude more about drywall than builders.
- This is how the law of cause and effect works!
- Exactly! And one more example from the same period. According to the architectural plan, the ceiling was supposed to be very high, but the builders had no idea how to build it like that. The deadlines for the project were approaching, and the confrontation between builders and architects grew. Finally, the builders asked the architects an unsolvable, from their point of view, question: "How will you change the light bulbs?" What are architects familiar with new technologies in construction and an assortment of modern building stores, reasonably noted that there are special retractable ladders for this. The builders of the largest Buddhist temple in Europe knew as much about retractable staircases as they did about drywall and other new building materials - that is, they knew nothing at all. They never left Kalmykia. It was at this moment that I intervened in the dispute between the builders and the architects.
- How did you manage to settle this situation?
- I told the builders in detail about retractable ladders, about the principle of their work.
- And they immediately believed?
- The builders immediately believed in the possibility of the existence of retractable ladders somewhere in the world, but they very much doubted that such ladders would ever appear in their possession.
“Maybe there are such ladders in America, but definitely not in Russia,” they assured me.
Then I opened the Internet, found where these stairs are sold in Moscow and showed them to builders.
- Well, every time we need to change the light bulb, will you call the stairs from Moscow? - the builders reasonably objected.
- No, we will order a staircase from Moscow only once; we will buy it, bring it and it will always be here.
- Yes, sometimes there is an impression that there is a deep abyss between the practice of meditation, philosophy and ordinary life. And the history of your life, on the contrary, testifies that these things are very interconnected.
- My experience as a layman helps me a lot in a variety of matters. It's scary to think what I could do if I only sat in meditation all the time and read Buddhist philosophical texts - that's how I would have learned about retractable stairs and drywall (laughs)?
In general, it only seems that the gap between the world and the monastery is deep.
When I speak publicly or give the Teaching, I am not talking about what can be found in books. Because I have my own experience, my own pain ... How, in what way did I cope with this - with this particular pain, with these or those emotions? What helped me? I am talking about it.
Buddha says so and it is right. Why? Once, when I was 19 years old, and I was in a darkened state, it was the practice that helped me ... This is the kind of thing I explain to people.
- How would you call this teaching method?
- I would call this teaching method more realistic, perhaps.
- An unusual question to the official representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Russia, Telo Tulku Rinpoche and the Shajin Lama in one person: please tell us about your connections with the contemporary music industry?
- Yes, that's a good story. It happened in 1997. There is a group called Beastie Boys, they play rap. One of the participants is a Buddhist. They have the song "Boddhisattva vows" in which they read one of the chapters from the text of "Boddhicharya-avatara". In general, they read rap to the accompaniment of techno, and even mixed with the sounds of Buddhist ritual instruments - drums, pipes, cymbals. So, one day someone called me.
- Hello, I'm the producer of the Beastie Boys. Do you know such a musical group?
- Yes, I heard something from their repertoire, - I answer into the phone.
- Have you heard the song Boddhisattva vows?
“I heard something about this song, but now I can't remember,” I said carefully.
- In San Francisco there will be a big concert dedicated to the freedom of Tibet, which is organized by the Save Tibet Foundation ... We are going to perform this song there and we need someone who knows the art of throat singing. I was advised to contact you.
- Sounds interesting.
- This is work without pay.
- OK. What should I do?
- You will need to fly to Los Angeles to rehearse for three to four days. We will pay for the flight, the hotel. Your task is to rehearse and perform at a concert in support of Tibet with the Beastie Boys.
- OK.
And I flew, and we rehearsed with the Beastie Boys in Los Angeles, and then went together to San Francisco for this big concert (laughs).
- So, the real Tulku, it turns out, is performing with the Beastie Boys. Amazing story! By the way, rap music has recently been very popular in Russia. Do you somehow follow all this?
- No, now, unfortunately, I do not have enough time and I have moved away from all these wonderful things - music, rap battles, sports, even cinema. I devote all my time to work - there are so many, so many wonderful projects! - and there is not enough for a hobby (laughs).
- How do your hobbies and hobbies relate to the image of the Tulku?
- They correlate perfectly. From my point of view, of course ... (smiles)... True, many people think that Tulku is always an example of compassion and holiness, that he is constantly smiling, immersed in meditation. You see, I grew up as an independent person. To live in the world, you need to know how to sweep the floor, how to keep the house clean, be able to cook - at least simple dishes- necessarily. Yes, often when someone holds a high position, assistants are prepared and removed for him ... But there are situations when there is a status and position, but there are no assistants. And then what to do - to sit hungry in a dirty house? I am sometimes asked - out of politeness, I guess - what I was doing yesterday. And I honestly answer that I cooked dinner and swept the floor. Usually people are surprised, "How, Rinpoche, do you cook your own food?"
- I am sure that your frankness inspires many. What's your favorite dish?
- I don't have a favorite dish - I like to experiment.
- Tell us about your most successful culinary experiment?
- I like everything that I get (laughs)... I love to cook and, in my opinion, there is nothing wrong with that.
- Are you a vegetarian?
- Yes, I'm a vegetarian. About seven years ago I was invited to participate in a TV program - any topic of my choice. I offered to do a cooking show.
- What have you prepared?
- I decided to introduce the Kalmyks to vegetarian cuisine: how to cook noodles, soup, how to fry vegetables. The whole republic was in shock. Because in Kalmykia, everyone says that no one can survive without meat, vegetables are grass, this is for a cow. Well, I showed them that you can not only live without meat, but also eat deliciously - of course, if you learn how to cook deliciously. That is why I decided to show you how to make food without meat. Actually, I could arrange other master classes: how to wash, how to iron, how to clean. (laughs)
- It would be great to record such TV programs!
- Yes indeed. An important task of Buddhism is to bring more compassion and love to the world. A variety of methods can help in the implementation of this task - and not necessarily only traditional ones ...
- What methods do you call traditional?
- The traditional method of transmitting the Teaching is when a lama speaks while sitting on a throne, and people listen to his speeches at the foot of this throne, on the floor. There are other methods as well: music, cooking, art, theater. And these other, unconventional methods are helping to overcome boundaries.
- In what sense?
- There are too many borders in the world! They are everywhere, even between Buddhist communities! Buryats, Tuvans, Kalmyks, Russians ... We all want to live in a world where there are no borders, where borders are not needed. We want to open borders! At the same time, it is important to value and respect each other.
- Could you give an example of how to achieve this?
- Yes of course. The program of events such as Losar celebrations is aimed precisely at removing the boundaries between Buddhist communities, which is why it is so diverse. Everything is there - Teaching, practice, cultural program. All this allows us to see how much we all have in common - both in our traditions and in our perception of beauty.
For example, remember the song that SunSay performed at Losar celebrations - it has English lyrics, Russian lyrics ... Good! Different nationalities, different cultures- not necessarily traditional Buddhist - get together and enjoy good music. We value these songs as offerings. This is what unites us as human beings. In general, first you need to pay attention not to the differences between cultures, but precisely to what unites us all.
- Tell us about your plans for the future?
- Here I am. I am 45 years old and I continue my ministry. Why am I doing this? But not out of love for power - as some might think. This is very much in line with the Soviet mentality to think that everyone wants to stay in power as long as possible, because power is great.
- How do you feel about the authorities?
- I do not like power. Do I want all this power for myself? No I do not want to! Who would love all this commitment, stress, excitement? Do you think this is what I want? I want to devote my life to spiritual practice!
- How many years have you represented His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Russia?
- Three years. This is a great honor for me, a great blessing and, to be honest, a huge responsibility - another one. Imagine, first you were awarded the title of Tulku, then the Supreme Lama of Kalmykia, and then also the official representative of His Holiness ... And now I have to be even more careful with my public statements and actions than before, to follow all the rules of etiquette.
After all, if I make a mistake now, then this mistake will be talked about in relation to the Dalai Lama. Many people know me precisely from this side, and not as Telo Tulku or Shadzhin Lama - and so they will correlate my actions with those of His Holiness ... This is such a huge responsibility, I must be very careful.
(Rinpoche demonstrates miracles of neatness in how one can hold a cup of tea: this time he hardly touches it! But it seemed that it was impossible to be more accurate than the last time.)
Yes, for three years now I have been holding the honorary position of His Holiness the Dalai Lama's representative in Russia and now I am already starting to think about the end of the term.
- Is the term of official representation limited?
- Would you like to continue this work?
- Yes and no. On the one hand, this is a huge responsibility, and I would like to gradually reduce my socio-political activity in order to devote more time to spiritual practice. In this sense, of course, I am looking forward to the end of the term. On the other hand, I do not want the deadline to end quickly - we have started to do so many wonderful and important things! For example, the project "Buddhism and Science", in the framework of which we organize meetings of the Russian scientific community with the Dalai Lama.
- Yes, this is a very promising project!
- Yes. And who will do this when my term ends? Will my follower continue? Who knows…
- Many will be very grateful to you if you nevertheless decide to continue working in this position.
- Let's see what my fate, my karma and, of course, time will say.
- Yes, it is already clear that such projects are very promising; a lot of people are involved!
- Yes. This is not for the sake of heritage, not for the sake of the past - but for the sake of the future of humanity! Studying the brain, studying the phenomenon of compassion - why is it so important? Why do Buddhists talk so much about compassion? If we do more research on these issues, then scientists may be able to answer why compassion is so important.
- And then again more people will practice compassion. What else to do? By the way, is there any time left in the schedule for your own practice?
- I practice every morning. When I have more time, I practice for longer, and sometimes there is so little time that I only do short practices. But regularly, every morning. I travel a lot and different time zones, of course, also affect my morning schedule ... Anyway, I try to do at least something.
- Do you dream of doing a long retreat?
- Every day I dream about it. After all, I had to sacrifice my education, my life in a monastery ... Do I regret it? No, I'm not sorry. I see positive results of my activities in Kalmykia, and this brings me happiness and joy. Isn't this the meaning of life?
- The meaning of life is happiness?
- The meaning of life is to be happy, to be joyful. The meaning of life is that it turns on, pushes forward.
- Buddhist teachers often talk about happiness, but what do they mean by this word? What is happiness?
- Happiness ... is fulfillment, fulfillment, fulfillment - such fulfillment that cannot be destroyed, taken away, removed.
- Thank you for a very interesting conversation, for your incredible sincerity and openness. I could not even imagine anything like this!
Telo Tulku Rinpoche was interviewed by Vlada Belimova - philosopher, anthropologist, specialist in Indian culture
Photos by Gary Lidzhiev
Other author interviews:
We spoke with the venerable Geshe Lhakdor about ancient manuscripts, working with complex emotions, compassion and endless happiness. The Venerable Geshe Lhakdor is a Buddhist teacher who has served as personal translator for His Holiness the Dalai Lama for sixteen years and is director of the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives in Dharamsala, India.
About the traditions of Buddhist education in the modern world, points of intersection of philosophical currents of the East and West, theories and practices of compassion, we talked with Geshe Navang Samten, a famous scientist, rector Central University Tibetan Studies (Central University of Tibetan Studies).
Telo Tulku Rinpoche was born in the United States of America.
October 27, 1972 (in the world - Erdni Basan Ombadykov). When he was six years old, during the visit of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama to Philadelphia, he was recognized as a living embodiment of the Indian mahasiddha Tilopa.
Since that time, all his activities are inextricably linked with the revival of Buddhism in our republic.
In 1992, at a Buddhist conference, he, as a living embodiment of the Teacher, was elected Shadzhin Lama of Kalmykia.
From then until today Telo Tulku Rinpoche, as Shajin Lama, did a great and serious work to restore and strengthen Buddhist teachings on the Kalmyk land.
The current state of Buddhism in Kalmykia.
Buddhism in Kalmykia has a long and rich history. By the beginning of the 20th century, more than 90 large and small khuruls existed on the territory of Kalmykia, with about 3 thousand clergymen.
In the 30s, as a result of Stalinist repressions, almost all churches were destroyed, and the Buddhist clergy were severely repressed. To the beginning of the Great Patriotic War Buddhism in Kalmykia was practically destroyed. The expulsion of the Kalmyks in 1943 completed the defeat of Buddhism.
The revival of Buddhism in the republic began only in the late 80s. and was associated with the process of perestroika in the USSR, the beginning of the democratization of public life. In 1988, the first Buddhist community was registered in Elista, and the first prayer house was opened in the same year. Lama Tuvan Dordzh, who came from Buryatia, became its abbot.
A significant event in the religious life of Kalmykia was the first visit of His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama, which took place in the summer of 1991 and gave a powerful impetus to the development of Buddhism in the republic. In Elista, the Dalai Lama held three mass prayers, visited the khurul, consecrated the construction site of the Buddhist temple complex, and met with the leadership of Kalmykia and the public of the capital.
In the fall of 1992, the Dalai Lama visited the republic again. As during the previous visit, he read prayers and preached sermons. In addition, he ordained thirteen people as monks, among whom were not only Kalmyks, but also representatives of other nationalities. This ceremony took place in the newly erected shume temple. During his visit, the Dalai Lama visited the Caspian, Ketchener and Yashkul regions of Kalmykia. He consecrated the khuruls in the city of Lagan and the village of Dzhalykovo.
An important event was the creation of the Association of Buddhists of Kalmykia (OBK). In 1991, the first OBK conference was held, which approved the charter and elected Shadzhin Lama of the Kalmyk people Tuvan Dorj. In 1992 the second conference was held. Its result was the election of Telo Tulku Rinpoche (E. Ombadykov) as Shajin Lama and President of the OBK. Back in 1992, a youth Buddhist center was established in Elista, which began active educational activities, including teaching the basics of Buddhism, the Tibetan language and ancient Indian logic. The center was later renamed the Dharma Center.
It should be noted that the revival of Buddhism in Kalmykia was primarily facilitated by the policy of the current leadership of the republic, headed by the Head of Kalmykia, FIDE President K.N. Ilyumzhinov, who was elected to the post of head of the republic in April 1993. It was thanks to his constant support - financial and organizational - that more than forty Buddhist places of worship, annual trips of pilgrims to holy places for every Buddhist (Tibet, India, etc.) and representatives of the Russian media were organized for the annual press conference of His Holiness the Dalai Lama on the 14th at his residence in the Indian city of Dharamsala, the arrival of prominent teachers in Kalmykia various directions of Buddhism.
In 1994, the International Buddhist Forum, organized by the Dharma Center, was held in Elista. The forum was attended by about a thousand believers from Russia, the CIS countries and a number of foreign countries, as well as famous Buddhist lamas from India, Bhutan and Nepal. Within the framework of this event, Buddhist prayers, dedications were held, a charity telethon and a spiritual and ecological expedition were held.
Later, within the framework of the Dharma Center, religious communities of laity began to form, focused on one or another of the four main schools of Tibetan Buddhism. One of the first such communities was the Karma Kagyu Center. In 1995, a branch of the International Institute of the Karma Kagyu School was opened in Elista, the program of which includes Buddhist philosophy and practice, the Tibetan language.
“Red-haired” Buddhism is represented in Kalmykia by two more schools - Sakyapa and Nyingmapa, whose communities arose after the teachers of these traditions arrived in Kalmykia: the patriarch of the Sakya tradition, His Holiness Sakya Tritszin, and the Nigma teachers, Venerable Palden Sherab Rinpoche and Tsevang Dongyal. At present, a khurul of the Nyingma school operates in the village of Iki-Burul.
In Kalmykia, there are also secular Buddhist organizations, whose followers adhere to the Gelugpa school of Buddhism, which is traditional for Kalmyks. In Elista, these are primarily the Chenresig and Tilopa centers.
A significant event for the Buddhists of Kalmykia was the opening in 1996 of Syakusn Sume in Elista. The new temple became the center of the spiritual life of our republic. Several tens of thousands of people gathered at the opening of this beautiful temple.
One of the main teachers - followers of the Gelug school is His Eminence Bogd-Gegen IX, who repeatedly visited Kalmykia. The visits of the spiritual leader of the Mongolian peoples contributed to the revival of Buddhism among the Kalmyks. During his visits, Bogdo-gegen traveled to the districts, read sermons, gave blessings. Particularly fruitful was the 2003 visit, during which the Kalachakra tantra initiation was granted to believers.
Venerable Lama Yeshe-Lodoy Rinpoche visited our republic several times. In the early 1990s, Yeshe-Lodoi Rinpoche, on behalf of the Dalai Lama, came to Buryatia to teach Buddhist philosophy. In Kalmykia, Rinpoche conferred initiations into the tantras of Yamantaka, Chakrasamvara and Guhyasamaji.
In 2002-2003. Tibetan monks from the Gyudmed monastery came to Kalmykia four times. Gyudmed is famous for teaching secret tantric teachings here. In addition, his monks are famous for their original throat singing. In Elista, they built three sand mandalas, which symbolize the matrix of the Universe and at the same time the palace of the deities. The first to be erected was the Green Tara mandala, the second to the Avolakiteshvara mandala, and the third to the Yamantaka mandala. It is believed that contemplation of the mandala cleanses a person from negative karma, defilements and diseases. At the end of the construction, the mandalas were destroyed, which should remind people of the frailty of being and the need to prepare for the next life. During their visits, the monks of Gyudmed also bestowed blessings on the goddess Tara, Manla (Buddha of medicine) and Manzushri (Buddha of wisdom), held ceremonies for the purification of the Universe, and lectured on Buddhism.
From 3 to 15 August 2003 in Kalmykia, on the territory of Citychess, an All-Russian Buddhist retreat was held under the leadership of the venerable Geshe Jump Tinley. It became a very important event for Buddhists not only in Kalmykia, but throughout Russia. To participate in this event, many Buddhists arrived in Kalmykia from different cities (Rostov-on-Don, Ufa, Ulan-Ude, Kyzyl, etc.), as well as from Ukraine.
The most important event of recent years was the visit to Kalmykia of His Holiness the Dalai Lama XIV in 2004, organized by the Head of Kalmykia Kirsan Ilyumzhinov. Despite the brevity, the meeting with the Teacher gave a huge impetus to the revival of Buddhism in our republic.
Another major event in the life of Buddhists in Kalmykia was the opening at the end of 2005 of a new temple in Elista - Burkhn Bagshin Altyn Syume (Golden Abode of Buddha Shakyamuni), which is the largest Buddhist temple in Europe and was built with the blessing of His Holiness the Dalai Lama on the 14th ( during his visit in 2004, the Dalai Lama consecrated the site for the construction of the khurul) at the personal expense of Kirsan Ilyumzhinov.
And in 2006, under the patronage of Kirsan Ilyumzhinov, Days of Kalmyk Culture were held in Dharamsala, during which Kirsan Ilyumzhinov presented His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama for his outstanding contribution to the revival of Buddhism in Russia and Kalmykia, presented the highest award of Kalmykia - the Order of the White Lotkos ...
For the period 1993-2002. there was a quantitative growth of Buddhist communities. Today there are 35 Buddhist associations in Kalmykia. Much has been done with the support of the state in the construction of Buddhist temples. There are already more than 30 khuruls in the republic.
In recent years, the forces of believers and bodies local government large khuruls were erected in the city of Lagan, the settlements of Tsagan-Aman, Yashkul, Iki-Burul, Arshan-Zelmen, etc. Prayer houses were opened in the town of Gorodovikovsk, the Khomutnikovskiy state farm, the village of Ketchenery, the village of Troitsk, etc.
Since then, over 30 churches and prayer houses have been restored and built in the steppe region. Since 2005, Telo Tulku Rinpoche's residence has been located in the main temple of Kalmykia - “The Golden Abode of Buddha Shakyamuni”. Now it is the largest Buddhist temple in Europe.
- Your Holiness, what are the primary tasks for the full development of Buddhism in Russia?
- The primary task is to preserve the purity of the tradition and teachings of the Buddha during this extremely difficult time. For 2,550 years, Buddhists have been able to maintain the purity of monastic and secular discipline, and we must continue to emphasize this.
After the revolution of 1917, the Buddhist clergy and believers of Russia suffered severe trials, and we lost many values: both material and spiritual. Can we revive the lost, return to pure monastic tradition, which, without a doubt, is the basis of Buddhist teachings, dharma? I think yes. But it takes time and effort. Remember that spiritual discipline has been absent in Russia for 70 years, however, today we are seeing a gradual revival not only of Buddhism, but also of other religious traditions.
Much is changing in the modern world, and Russia is no exception. Society is faced with many problems - political, economic, moral. Overcoming these difficulties, again, requires spiritual discipline and a real-life code of ethics.
It would be useful to think seriously about what the Buddhist approach to solving pressing social problems is, and to find a way to offer the society elements of Buddhist ethics. I am sure it will be beneficial - it will contribute to his recovery.
- Don't you think that the presence of the Khambo Lama of Buryatia in the Interreligious Council during your absence (and the Tuvan Kamba Lama) is unfair? Maybe it's time to fix the situation?
- It is important to realize that, unlike Orthodoxy, there has never been centralization in Russian Buddhism - and not only in Russia. Kalmykia, Buryatia and Tuva became part of Russia in different years (by the way, Kalmykia was the first: we recently celebrated the 400th anniversary).
The spiritual life of each of the peoples developed independently of each other, and at the same time they all maintained close ties with Tibet. This becomes obvious even with a superficial acquaintance with historical sources.
However, today only the Buddhist Traditional Sangha of Russia is represented at the federal level - an organization that is in no way connected with the parent Buddhist organizations of the other two republics: neither with the Association of Buddhists of Kalmykia, nor with the Association of Buddhists of Tuva. Their voices are not heard, and their interests are not taken into account. This needs to be changed, and the sooner the better.
- What, in your opinion, can and should be Buddhist education in Russia? Are you satisfied with the “Fundamentals of Buddhist Culture” and the practice of introducing this discipline in schools in general?
- I think the introduction of the subject "Foundations of World Religions" in schools is the right and timely step, as this discipline helps to open the hearts of our children. I am deeply convinced that the more knowledge we have about other cultures and religions, the better.
On the other hand, this subject was introduced too hastily and without due preparatory work. The teachers who were supposed to teach this discipline did not pass necessary training... But, nevertheless, this is a good start, and I hope that work in this direction will continue.
As you know, Kalmykia was chosen as one of the regions where an experiment was conducted to teach the basics of religious cultures. Positive results are evident, but, above all, because the clergy of Kalmykia rendered great help to teachers to help them understand the multifaceted philosophy of Buddhism. And, of course, we regularly meet with students of schools and other educational institutions: we give lectures, conduct seminars.
- Has the position of Buddhism in Kalmykia changed after Kirsan Ilyumzhinov left the presidency?
- Without a doubt, Kirsan Ilyumzhinov did a lot for the revival of Buddhism. Moreover, it is very important to remember that he provided his assistance not as a government official, and not as the head of the republic. This was his contribution as a resident of Kalmykia and as a Buddhist. Of course, we are sorry that he no longer leads Kalmykia, since no one will replace Kirsan Ilyumzhinov in his assistance to Buddhism.
- What is the relationship of Buddhists with other religions in Kalmykia?
- Representatives of various religious institutions in Kalmykia have friendly relations. We conduct an open dialogue and discuss issues directly and sincerely, without fear of hurting anyone's feelings. I am glad to note that we have no problems. And if they did arise, then we would discuss them with all openness and find a mutually acceptable solution.
I think this is happening because in Kalmykia they realize: for all the dissimilarity of the philosophical foundations of various religions, they all strive to bring good to humanity. It was very gratifying for me when the Orthodox Vladyka Zosima (at that time he was Bishop of Elista and Kalmyk), after meeting with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, said that there are "a lot of Orthodox ascetics in him." This willingness to respect and understand the values of other religions truly brings people closer together.
- You are one of the initiators of the teachings of the Dalai Lama for the Buddhists of Russia in India. Do you really think that sermons heard so far from Russia can influence the state of affairs in Russian Buddhism?
- In my opinion, the events of past years have already proved that exercises conducted even at such a considerable distance from Russia have many advantages. First, people find themselves in a new environment, in another part of the world, get acquainted with the culture of other countries. They make a pilgrimage to holy places. They meet with representatives of other branches of Buddhism, with philosophers, high lamas, monks. All this cannot be obtained while staying on the territory of Russia.
And, of course, most importantly, they can get in touch with the wisdom of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, receive his blessing, his philosophical teachings and initiations. We all know that His Holiness's years are passing, and our requests for an entry visa to Russia are rejected on a regular basis.
So, meeting with him in India and other countries is still our only opportunity to learn from him, to keep in touch with him. And this brings tremendous benefits to everyone. I am deeply convinced that the teachings of the Dalai Lama for Russian Buddhists, even if they are conducted in India, have a significant impact on the state of Buddhism in Russia. And this influence will undoubtedly expand.
Shajin Lama of Kalmykia Telo Tulku Rinpoche
Biography
The Venerable Telo Tulku Rinpoche was born in Philadelphia, America in 1972. Parents are immigrants from Kalmykia who immigrated to the United States. Telo Rinpoche's grandfather was a Buddhist cleric who was later persecuted. As a child, the Venerable Telo Rinpoche began to show special interests not characteristic of ordinary children. At the age of four, he began to call himself a lama and said that he would become a monk. He often visited the khurul of the Kalmyk community in America. His extraordinary abilities were noted by the monks and in 1979 his family received an audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama. After conducting special traditional inquiries, His Holiness recognized in Erdni-Basan Ombadykov the ninth incarnation of the Indian mahasiddhi Tilopa. In 1980, in the South of India at the Drepung Gomang monastery, he was officially enthroned. At the Drepung Gomang Telo Tulku Rinpoche monastery he studied logic, philosophy, history, grammar and other Buddhist disciplines for thirteen years.
In 1991, His Holiness the Dalai Lama was invited to the Republic of Kalmykia. He asked Telo Tulku Rinpoche to accompany him on this visit. In 1992 Telo Tulku Rinpoche visited the republic again. During this period, an extraordinary congress of the Society of Buddhists of Kalmykia was held at which Tuvan Dorje, a lama from Buryatia, was removed from the post of Shadzhin Lama of Kalmykia for financial fraud. The Buddhists of Kalmykia unanimously supported Telo Tulku Rinpoche's candidacy for the post of the Supreme Lama of Kalmykia.
Over the course of seventeen years, through the efforts of the Shajin Lama of Kalmykia Telo Tulku Rinpoche, more than forty Buddhist temples and a huge number of stupas were erected. The largest Buddhist temple in Russia and Europe was also erected in the city of Elista.
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Books
- Dilova Khutukhta of Mongolia. Political memoirs and autobiography of the reincarnation of a Buddhist lama, E.V. Gordienko. Memoirs of Dilov-khutukhta Bashlugiin Dzhamsranzhava (1884 1965) occupy a special place among sources on the history of Mongolia in modern times. Their author is one of the highest lamas of Mongolia, the incarnation of Tilopa ...
