Dharamshala: - Yesterday (Nov 2, 2011), the spiritual leader of Tibet, His Holiness the Dalai Lama bestowed the Vajra Dhatu empowerment to an auditorium of over a thousand Japanese Buddhist devotees at the Koyasan University in Japan.
On his 5th day in Japan, the spiritual leader of Tibet in exile, asked his reverent audience to meditate on the attainment of Bodhichitta (Tib: Jangchup Sempa), explaining that Bodhichitta is the mind of enlightenment, and the "most altruistic of all minds".
Just the day before, he had completed the preliminary initiations of the Vajra Dhatu, intricately guiding his audience through its stages and on how to dissolve one's self-centeredness.
He quoted the Indian Saint, Shanti Deva, "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", illustrating that one must develop the belief of being compassionate towards and relieving the suffering of all sentient beings.
His Holiness imparted that "The root of happiness lies in how to control one's mind. It can be developed through being compassionate and working for others' well-being rather than exploiting them for your personal gain alone". He also added, "The root cause of suffering lies in uncontrolled mind, which in turn is caused by frustration if one's selfish motives are not fulfilled".
The spiritual leader patiently guided his disciples- including many Japenese Buddhist priests- through a series of hand mudras, rituals and prayers in order to confer the complete Dorying empowerment.
Those that attended the empowerment felt a true sense of refuge and invigoration at being vowed into this age-old Buddhist tradition. The Dalai Lama left the auditorium after having imparted true inspiration to the Japanese people.
"In this hour of tragedy, His Holiness the Dalai Lama's visit has greatly encouraged the Japanese people to tide over the difficult times", said a Japanese disciple from the Chiba prefecture near Tokyo. He expressed his gratitude and appreciation to His Holiness for visiting Japan.
Tomorrow, His Holiness will go on to participate in a discussion with scientists and the President of the Koyasan University on esoteric Buddhism.
