Here in Bhutan, like in most Buddhist countries, the belief in reincarnation is very natural and common.
In the Tibetan and Buthanese tradition of Buddhism the belief in reincarnation has a very specific
and unique tradition, the tradition of the reincarnation of high lamas, called Tulkus or Rimpoches. The most “famous” lineage, is the lineage of the Dalai Lamas, who is now in their 14th reincarnation, this being the actual Dalai Lama,
Often the reincarnation of a high Lama is found in a little child.
I told you in the chapter: visiting Thimphu, that we received the blessing of a little 10 year old boy, who now presides over this very important Changankha
monastery.
He really looked so sweet sitting on his throne, guiding a very complex ceremony very seriously.
Many much older monks were sitting around him and he on his throne was definitively the VIP in this context.
He blessed us with his Dorje, while murmuring prayers in a low and assured voice.
He looked at Ilya, Alexis and Sofia with interest, but fulfilled his role without any hesitation.
We also met another
Rimpoche in Tango monastery a few weeks ago. He was found by the queen mother in quite extraordinary circumstances, (told in her wonderful book) when he was still very young. He is now 18, still studying but at the same time the head of a big monastery. He
also came to the GNH –Plum Village workshops to give an opening speech.
Last Saturday we met Neyfug Tulku, who is now in his thirties, a joyful young man. He will give a week of teachings in Thimphu this week and we’ll try
to join as much as possible. (ps I just come back from his opening session…very inspiring!)
During his talk he explained that he was the 9th reincarnation of the Neyfug Tulku, going back to the 16th century.
When Ilya
said to his mother: Haven’t we been in Bhutan before? I know this bridge, this path…one wonders…is he “influenced” by the Bhutanese “atmosphere” and the beliefs carried by all the people living here…does he
really remember?
I wonder where are the girl Rimpoches?
I do like the commitment of Tenzin Palmo when she said: "I have made a vow to attain Enlightenment in the female form, no matter how many lifetimes it takes." ~ Jetsunma Tenzin
Palmo ~
For sure it is quite wonderful to be in a country where children are the most important and revered persons!
Tomorrow off to Punakha!