The 17th Karmapa makes a heartfelt plea to all Tibetans after his recent re-union with His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
“Recently in Zurich, Switzerland, I had the fortunate opportunity to once again see His Holiness the Dalai Lama in person and listen to his teachings. This experience filled me with a mix of joy and sadness. Unlike seeing him on television, seeing him in person this time revealed how much he has aged. Even when speaking, his voice was noticeably weaker than before. This was deeply moving and difficult to bear.
His Holiness has devoted all his energy of body, speech and mind for our sake, and seeing how frail his physical condition has become filled me with both anguish and a renewed sense of gratitude. These feelings seemed to compete with each other in my mind.
Given his physical condition and apparent fatigue, I refrained from saying much, only expressing that there is nothing more important than praying for his long life for the sake of the Dharma and all beings. I wrote down all other matters I wished to discuss and presented them in writing. His Holiness spent about 10 minutes carefully reviewing this.
He mentioned there are prophecies that he will live to be over 110 years old. He expressed that his main wishes are to make a pilgrimage to Mount Wutai in China, and to emphasize that the complete teachings of the greater and lesser vehicles, including tantra, are a unique treasure found only in Tibet's Land of Snows. He stressed the importance of preserving, maintaining and spreading these teachings.
In short, seeing His Holiness in person and hearing his words this time instilled in me an unprecedented sense of his preciousness. It also impressed upon me that we must fulfill all of His Holiness's wishes for this lifetime promptly and swiftly, without delay or distraction.
His Holiness has already made inconceivable efforts and sacrifices for our sake. Now, considering his age and physical condition, there is no greater purpose than for him to rest and take care of his health. Everyone, both ourselves and others, must be mindful of this and show genuine concern.
Moreover, while His Holiness is still alive and well, if he could return to Tibet and set foot on its soil, it would fulfill the hopes of all Tibetans inside Tibet, both living and deceased, and accomplish the lama's wishes. Therefore, it is crucial that all our Tibetan brothers and sisters maintain pure and harmonious relationships, working together to swiftly fulfill His Holiness's vision. We must offer whatever support we can, even if it's just dedicating prayers day and night without pause. We have reached a critical time.
Regardless of regional affiliations, religious denominations, views or positions, for the welfare of Tibet as a whole, we must prioritize what's important and let go of minor issues. It's crucial that we don't mistake gold for copper or sell sandalwood as common ash.
Most importantly, keeping in mind that we have such a wish-fulfilling jewel of a lama, I urge everyone to work with great determination for the general cause of the Dharma and the welfare of the Tibetan people.
Presented by Karma Ogyen Trinley Dorje on August 28, 2024.”
Translation by Ven. Tongkhor Rinpoche
The 17th Karmapa makes a heartfelt plea to all Tibetans after his recent re-union with His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
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