Khenpo Sonam Gyatso Rinpoche
Khenpo Sonam Gyatso Rinpoche
With a public lecture, extensive teachings on "Boddhichitta" and an empowerment in Vajrapani, Khenpo Sonam Gyatso Rinpoche, master of philosophy and high scholar of Tibetan Buddhism, very luminously and powerfully turned the wheel of Dharma. He was accompanied on his visit to Hamburg by Drubpon Ngawang, the European representative of His Holiness the 12th Gyalwang Drukpa, and Lama Sonam Dawa.
Public Talk
To kick off his visit, Khenpo Sonam Gyatso Rinpoche gave a public talk on "Economy and Money from the Perspective of Universal Truth" in the sold-out hall of the Park Hyatt Hotel. Here he explained central tenets of Buddhism and spoke about impermanence, the true nature of mind, and how we can attain contentment. Focusing on the evening's theme, Khenpo Rinpoche explained a meaningful, beneficial use of money and possessions through the beneficial focus on the welfare of others.
A cultural highlight rounded off the evening: Tibetan singer Dechen Shak Dagsay gave an insight into her art of singing and offered a mantra to Khenpo Rinpoche at the end.
In his teachings on the generation of enlightenment mind - "Boddhichitta" - this charismatic master presented in great breadth and clarity the stages to enlightenment from the Lamrim. Khenpo Rinpoche taught about the different abilities of practitioners and the different motivations and goals that come with them. He spoke about thoughts and consciousness, the development of attachment and delusion, and methods to dissolve them - always accompanied by the development of compassion.
Rinpoche repeatedly emphasized the importance of wisdom, which ultimately frees us from our difficulties. The crowning conclusion of his teachings was the blessing and empowerment in Vajrapani - the powerful protector of the Dharma.
Photos: © Agnes Forsthuber