Message from the Director

Dear Readers

Tashi delek and Happy Losar for the Tibetan year 2131, the Year of the Wood Monkey.

It is with great joy that I introduce this, Zhyisil Chokyi Ghatsal Trust’s first issue of Thar Lam, the purpose of which is to preserve and share with people of all interests some of the great wealth of dharma teachings being now presented in the West, teachings that convey ultimate truth which bring realisation, permanent peace and happiness for oneself and others.

Each issue will also include interviews of the journeys, trials and tribulations of those progressing the path and propagating the Buddhahdarma, features presenting some of the variety of dharma monasteries and centres in the West, reviews of important and relevant books, Tibetan health and a travellers guide.

In our first issue we share teachings from several of the most respected and eminent teachers of their generation. First is an academics discussion with His Holiness the Dalai Lama from a recent visit to New Zealand. Second is a brief but lucid elaboration of the Prajnaparamita by His Eminence Tai Situ Rinpoche. The third and fourth teachings were given by His Eminence the Third Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche – for which we are very grateful to the Jamgon Kongtrul Labrang, – during visits to the West and comprise part of a vast and comprehensive body of teachings that he gave to Westerners of which we will present more of in future issues.

As with all our publications, they are for the reader’s benefit, therefore we look forward to your feedback and suggestions on how to improve what we do and your ideas and contributions to our content.

May you all have a happy new year with great happiness and success.

Venerable Choje Lama Karma Shedrup