By Sherab Woeser
KOYASAN, November 2: One could hear a pin drop in the Koyasan University auditorium packed with over a thousand Japanese disciples this afternoon.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama, while bestowing the Vajra Dhatu (Tib: Dorying) empowerment, had told the audience to meditate on nurturing Bodhichitta (Tib: Jangchup Sempa).
Reciting from the great Indian saint Shanti Deva’s, “For as long as space endures, and for as long as living beings remain, until then may I too abide, to dispel the misery of the world”, the Dalai Lama explained that Jangchup Sempa is the mind of enlightenment – the “most altruistic of all minds”.
“When meditating, develop the belief to benefit infinite sentient beings, to bring happiness to all and relieve them of suffering,” the Dalai Lama said.
Guiding his disciples, many of whom were Japanese priests, through the numerous intricate hand mudras, the Tibetan spiritual leader bestowed the complete Dorying empowerment.
“I feel truly blessed today,” said Ven. Thomas Eijo, an American who has lived in Japan for the past 16 years, following the empowerment.
Ven. Eijo, who is also a consultant to the Kongobuji Head Temple told Phayul that receiving the empowerment from His Holiness the Dalai Lama gave him a true sense of refuge.
“This is precious. I will keep this with me for my entire life.”
Ven. Bairy Kerzin, a monk, practitioner, and medical doctor who lives in Dharamshala, the exile residence of the Dalai Lama and visits Japan regularly on teaching tours said that the Vajra Dhatu empowerment has a long and close history with the Japanese people.
“As far as I understand, His Holiness’ Dorying empowerment in Koyasan has served a long way in reinvigorating this sacred tradition for the Japanese Buddhists.”
A Japanese schoolteacher, Haruki, who had driven seven hours to receive the initiations and hear the Dalai Lama said she was “excited” with her life ahead.
“Hearing the message of transforming your mind and practicing genuine love and compassion for others, I believe I can be a better human being.”
