Chökhor Du Chen is one of Four Great Occasions (“Du Chen” in Tibetan) commemorating pivotal events in the life of the Buddha. Chökhor (“wheel-turning” in Tibetan) commemorates the First Teaching given by the Buddha in Varanasi, 49 days after his experience of enlightenment.
Since these days are related to important events in the life of the Buddha, it is said that the effects of virtuous (and non-virtuous!) actions done on this day are multiplied millions of times. Therefore, dharma practice is emphasized on these days.
To take advantage of the blessings of this day, KTC will offer a session of Aspirational Prayers for Chökhor Du Chen beginning at 9 AM.
The one-hour program will include a prayer of offering and praise to the Buddha, as well as one of the five main “monlams” (aspiration prayers) recited in the Kagyu tradition. We also will have a group reading of some of the Buddha’s early teachings.
Saying these prayers and reciting the Buddha’s words helps us accumulate a mind of virtue, which in turn helps us see the power of love and wisdom in our lives and sets our spiritual course – both now, and in the future.
Prayers:
The Tashi Prayer (usually recited before the Chenrezig practice at KTC)
The Lama Rinpochema Prayer (usually recited in place of Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche’s longevity supplication)
Praise of the Twelve Deeds of the Buddha
Dedication from “The Way of the Bodhisattva”
